The Absolute Best Seafood in Hartford [Updated 2024]

Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of indulging in the finest seafood that Hartford has to offer. With a total of 12 establishments carefully reviewed and analyzed, I am confident in my ability to share with you the absolute best of the best.

From elegant seafood restaurants to hidden gems serving up delectable dishes, this comprehensive guide will take you on a culinary journey like no other. Whether you're a local seeking new seafood hotspots or a visitor eager to explore the dining scene in Hartford, get ready to taste the most flavorsome and freshest seafood the city has to offer.

Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar

Highlights
Low Country Boil
Flavorful and cooked to perfection
Attentive bartender
Timely and hot food
All you can eat options

Walking into Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar, I was immediately greeted by a lively and vibrant atmosphere that set the stage for a fantastic seafood dining experience. The menu offered a wide variety of tantalizing options, but after hearing rave reviews, I couldn't resist trying their Low Country Boil.

And boy, am I glad I did! The Low Country Boil at Hook & Reel was a seafood lover's dream come true. The combination of succulent shrimp, mussels, and crab was cooked to perfection, bursting with flavors that transported me straight to the Louisiana bayou. Each bite was a delightful explosion of spices and freshness, leaving me craving for more.

The staff at Hook & Reel were nothing short of excellent. The bartender was attentive, suggesting the perfect drink to complement my meal. As I sipped on my handcrafted cocktail, my food arrived promptly and was served piping hot. The presentation was visually impressive, and the portion was more than generous.

If you're like me and can never get enough seafood, you'll be pleased to know that Hook & Reel offers all-you-can-eat options. It's a seafood feast that keeps on giving, allowing you to indulge in their delectable creations without restraint.

Overall, my experience at Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar was nothing short of phenomenal. From the flavorful and cooked-to-perfection Low Country Boil to the attentive bartender and timely service, every aspect of my visit was superb. So, if you find yourself in Hartford, make sure to hook yourself a reservation at Hook & Reel for some reel good seafood!

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Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar

Highlights
Flavorful chicken
Authentic jerk
Friendly staff
Rasta Pasta

Let me start by saying that Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar is a true gem in the heart of Hartford. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere that instantly made me feel like I was on a tropical island.

Now, let's talk about the seafood. Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar is famous for their flavorful chicken. Each bite was a burst of succulent and juicy goodness that had me craving for more. The chicken was perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, leaving me wanting to savor every last bite.

For those looking for an authentic taste of Jamaica, you won't be disappointed. Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar offers an array of authentic jerk options that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Montego Bay. The spicy kick combined with the tender meat was a match made in heaven.

The staff at Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar were incredibly friendly and attentive. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and even made some great recommendations. Their passion for the food they serve was evident in every interaction.

Last but not least, I have to mention their signature dish, the Rasta Pasta. Creamy and rich with a hint of spice, this pasta dish was a delightful surprise. The combination of flavors and textures was simply divine, and I couldn't help but order it again on my second visit.

In conclusion, Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers in Hartford. Their flavorful chicken, authentic jerk, friendly staff, and signature Rasta Pasta make it a standout among the sea of seafood options in the area. So, if you're looking for a taste of the Caribbean right here in Hartford, look no further than Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar. You won't be disappointed.

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Peppercorn's Grill

Highlights
Amazing food
Friendly service
Wonderful meal
Fabulous dinner
Great restaurant

Upon entering Peppercorn's Grill, I was immediately struck by the inviting ambiance. The restaurant exudes a warm and cozy atmosphere that sets the stage for a remarkable dining experience. The first thing that caught my attention was the friendly service. The staff went out of their way to ensure our comfort and were knowledgeable when it came to recommending seafood options.

Now let's talk about the star of the show: the amazing seafood. Peppercorn's Grill offers a wide range of dishes that cater to seafood enthusiasts like myself. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a wonderful meal. Each dish was bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The freshness of the seafood was undeniable, leaving me wanting more with every bite.

What truly impressed me was the creativity and attention to detail in each dish. The chefs at Peppercorn's Grill have truly mastered the art of preparing seafood. I had the pleasure of tasting a variety of dishes, including their seafood risotto and lobster linguini. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that left my taste buds dancing with joy.

In conclusion, Peppercorn's Grill is a fabulous dinner destination for seafood enthusiasts in Hartford. The combination of amazing food, friendly service, and a warm ambiance creates a great restaurant experience that cannot be missed. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or simply looking for a memorable dining experience, Peppercorn's Grill is a must-visit.

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Chosen 1 Cajun Seafood

Chosen 1 Cajun Seafood in Hartford is a delightful seafood spot that knows how to bring the heat! From their spicy crab boil to their succulent shrimp po' boys, this place is a flavor explosion in every bite. The cozy yet lively atmosphere adds to the overall enjoyment, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers in Hartford.

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Seafood heaven llc

Seafood heaven llc in Hartford is truly a slice of seafood paradise! The beautifully presented platters of fresh catch transported me straight to the coast. The clams were plump and buttery, while the lobster tails were succulent and packed with flavor. The attentive staff and charming coastal decor added to the overall experience. A must-visit for any seafood lover in Hartford!

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RAW*

I must say, RAW* is a seafood(italics) lover's paradise. The menu is an oceanic symphony of fresh flavors and imaginative dishes. The chef's culinary wizardry brings out the best in every delicate morsel(italics). From succulent sushi rolls to perfectly cooked oysters, every bite is a playful explosion of taste. RAW* effortlessly combines professional excellence with a fun and inviting atmosphere. It's shellfish to say that RAW* is at the top of the seafood game in Hartford.

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Mickey's Oceanic Grill

With its playful yet professional atmosphere, Mickey's Oceanic Grill in Hartford stands out as a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts like myself. From the succulent lobster rolls to the crispy calamari, every dish is a delightful burst of flavors. They truly know how to make waves with their seafood creations!

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More Than Just Shark Bite New England

More Than Just Shark Bite New England in Hartford truly lives up to its name. The variety of seafood options goes beyond your wildest dreams. The lobster roll is a must-try, with creamy, buttery goodness that will make you weak at the knees. Don't miss out on their delicious chowder too, perfect for those colder Hartford days. This place definitely deserves a spot on any seafood lover's list.

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Fishy Tales

Fishy Tales in Hartford is a hidden gem that made my taste buds dance with joy. The seafood offerings are fresh as the ocean and cooked to perfection. The playful yet professional atmosphere adds that extra touch of delight. Don't miss out on their signature lobster roll - it's a flavor explosion!

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Johnson Fish Market

The colorful and lively atmosphere of Johnson Fish Market immediately catches your attention, drawing you into a seafood lover's paradise. With a wide selection of fresh catches and flavorsome dishes, this spot is a must-visit for any self-proclaimed seafood connoisseur in Hartford. Don't miss their succulent lobster rolls and spicy shrimp tacos – they're a true delight for the taste buds. Johnson Fish Market never fails to deliver an unforgettable, playful seafood experience.

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The Hungry Crab

Prepare to be dazzled by The Hungry Crab in Hartford! This hidden gem boasts succulent seafood dishes that will make your taste buds dance. The lobster bisque is pure decadence and the crab cakes were a mouthwatering delight. The staff's warm hospitality made me feel like part of the family. Don't miss this seafood haven!

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Aqui Me Quedo Restaurant

My palate danced with delight as I savored the fresh and succulent seafood at Aqui Me Quedo Restaurant in Hartford. The flavorful ceviche left me longing for more and the crispy fried calamari was a true treat. With each bite, I could taste the care and expertise of the talented chefs. A must-visit for seafood lovers in Hartford!

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