The Absolute Best Seafood in Cincinnati [Updated 2024]

Being a seafood connoisseur, I have had the privilege of exploring Cincinnati's vibrant culinary scene and indulging in its finest oceanic delicacies. With a repertoire of 12 carefully selected establishments that have left an indelible mark on my taste buds, this guide promises to unveil the crème de la crème of seafood in Cincinnati.

From succulent shrimp dishes that make you close your eyes in blissful satisfaction to perfectly grilled fish that melts in your mouth, my dining escapades have uncovered an exquisite array of flavors that will please even the most discerning palates. So, let's dive into this gastronomic journey and discover the best seafood that Cincinnati has to offer!

Council Oak Steaks & Seafood

Highlights
Upscale restaurant
Best steak ever
Child-free dining
Excellent seafood
Great service

Walking into Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, I was immediately impressed by the upscale atmosphere. The dim lighting and elegant decor set the stage for a memorable dining experience. As a seafood enthusiast, I was pleased to see their menu offering a variety of options to tantalize my taste buds.

One stand-out aspect of Council Oak Steaks & Seafood is their commitment to providing the best steak. Let me tell you, I have had my fair share of steaks, but the one I had here was simply divine. Each bite was tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It was undoubtedly the best steak I have ever tasted.

Another great feature of this restaurant is their child-free dining policy. It was such a relief to enjoy a peaceful meal without the background noise of little ones. It added a touch of sophistication to the dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the seafood. Council Oak Steaks & Seafood definitely lives up to its name. The seafood dishes were exceptional. From perfectly seared scallops to succulent lobster tail, each dish was expertly prepared and seasoned to perfection. The freshness of the seafood was evident in every bite.

Lastly, the service at Council Oak Steaks & Seafood was top-notch. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

If you're looking for a restaurant that combines upscale atmosphere, the best steak you've ever tasted, child-free dining, excellent seafood, and great service, look no further than Council Oak Steaks & Seafood in Cincinnati. It's a seafood lover's haven that doesn't disappoint.

You might also want to check out the best seafood boil in Cincinnati.

McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks

Highlights
Prompt seating
Garlic aioli on bun
Juicy burger
Crispy seasoned fries
Clean establishment

From the moment I walked in, I was impressed with their prompt seating. They were able to accommodate me right away, which was a huge plus considering how busy the restaurant was.

Upon perusing the menu, I noticed an unexpected item: a burger. Curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to give it a try. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. The burger was incredibly flavorful and juicy, with a touch of gourmet flair. The addition of garlic aioli on the bun elevated the taste to a whole new level.

Of course, being a seafood lover, I couldn't resist ordering a side of their crispy seasoned fries. They were the perfect accompaniment to my meal, with just the right amount of crunch and seasoning.

The overall dining experience at McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks was impeccable. The atmosphere was inviting and the establishment was clean, which is always a big factor for me. The staff were attentive and friendly, ensuring that I had everything I needed throughout my meal.

While McCormick & Schmick's is primarily known for their seafood and steaks, I have to say that their unexpected take on a burger left a lasting impression on me. It's a testament to the diverse menu options and high quality ingredients they offer. If you're looking for a seafood restaurant in Cincinnati that offers a little something extra, McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks is definitely worth a visit.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Chicago.

Alabama Fishbar

Highlights
Best fried fish
Perfectly cooked
Great flavor

As soon as I stepped into Alabama Fishbar, I was greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere. The tantalizing smell of freshly fried fish wafted through the air, instantly making my mouth water. I couldn't wait to dive into their seafood offerings.

I decided to start with their highly recommended fried fish dish. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The batter was crispy and golden, enveloping the succulent fish. With each bite, I could taste the perfect balance of flavors. The fish was cooked to perfection, flaky and moist on the inside. It was clear that the chefs at Alabama Fishbar know their way around a deep fryer.

What truly sets Alabama Fishbar apart is the attention to detail in their cooking. Every dish is prepared with care, ensuring that each piece of seafood is cooked just right. From the perfectly seasoned shrimp to the tender crab legs, every item on their menu is bursting with great flavor.

The staff at Alabama Fishbar were knowledgeable and helpful, offering recommendations and ensuring that every customer had a memorable dining experience. The cozy yet lively ambiance only added to the overall enjoyment of the meal.

If you're in the mood for some mouthwatering seafood, Alabama Fishbar in Cincinnati is definitely worth a visit. Their commitment to quality and flavor is evident in every bite. So grab a friend, or better yet, a big appetite, and get ready to satisfy your seafood cravings at Alabama Fishbar.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Omaha.

Bonefish Grill

I was excited to visit Bonefish Grill in Cincinnati to sample their seafood offerings, and I must say, I was not disappointed! The atmosphere was lively and the service was top-notch. Bold flavors came through in dishes like the Bang Bang Shrimp, which packed a spicy punch. The fresh seafood options were plentiful, and the menu offered a good variety for both seafood enthusiasts and those looking for something different. The highlight for me was the Chilean Sea Bass, which was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth. The creamy sauce complemented the fish beautifully without overpowering it. Overall, Bonefish Grill is a gem in the Cincinnati seafood dining scene, offering a playful yet professional experience that seafood lovers should not miss!

You might also want to check out the best seafood boil in Chicago.

Swampwater Grill

Swampwater Grill in Cincinnati is a hidden gem of seafood delights. Their vibrant atmosphere and playful menu transported me straight to the Louisiana bayou. From succulent shrimp po' boys to delicate crawfish étouffée, every dish was a mouthwatering adventure. Don't miss their signature swampwater cocktail – it's a taste of the sea you won't soon forget! I highly recommend this spot to satisfy all your seafood cravings.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Grand Rapids.

Louisiana Fish Bar

Louisiana Fish Bar in Cincinnati is a playful seafood spot that caught my attention. With their mouthwatering Cajun-style dishes and fresh ingredients, it's no surprise that this spot is a hot favorite for seafood lovers in the area. An absolute must-try!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Des Moines.

Prime Cincinnati

Prime Cincinnati, located in the heart of Cincinnati, is a seafood haven. The impeccable service coupled with the fresh and succulent seafood options left me in awe. From the delicate oysters to the perfectly cooked lobster, each bite was a flavor explosion. Prime Cincinnati truly lives up to its name as one of the best seafood spots in town.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Madison WI.

Pelican's Reef

Hey seafood lovers! I recently visited Pelican's Reef in Cincinnati and boy, was I in for a treat! This place reels you in with its playful nautical vibe and professional service. The star of the show? The seafood, of course! Bold flavors and fresh catches left me craving more. This hidden treasure deserves a spot on Cincinnati's best seafood list!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Springfield MO.

Fish Express

Welcome to Fish Express - a seafood lover's slice of paradise right here in Cincinnati! This charming little spot is a hidden gem that serves up some seriously fresh and delightfully flavorful seafood. From tender calamari to juicy shrimp, every bite is a taste of the ocean. Dive into their perfectly seasoned fish tacos and be prepared to be hooked! Fish Express truly reels you in with its pristine seafood and friendly service. A seafood fiesta awaits you at Fish Express - an absolute must-visit on any seafood lover's list in Cincinnati.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Ann Arbor.

The Surfin Salmon

The Surfin Salmon in Cincinnati was a delightful surprise for my taste buds. Their seafood offerings were fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. From the succulent lobster rolls to the perfectly grilled salmon, every bite felt like a seafood vacation. It's definitely a must-visit spot for seafood lovers in Cincinnati!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Chicago Suburbs.

Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse

Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse in Cincinnati is a seafood paradise filled with flavors that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance. From succulent lobster tails to perfectly seared scallops, each bite transports you to a luxurious maritime heaven. Their commitment to freshness and attention to detail makes them a top contender for the best seafood in Cincinnati.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Dayton Ohio.

Seasons 52

Seasons 52 in Cincinnati is a seafood haven that delighted both my taste buds and my desire for a memorable dining experience. From the mouthwatering oysters to the succulent grilled salmon, every dish showcased freshness and flavor. Plus, the charming ambiance made me feel like I was vacationing seaside. Prepare to be wowed!