Traverse City's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

As an expert with years of experience, I am thrilled to present to you the ultimate guide to the best seafood in Traverse City! With a palate finely attuned to the nuances of seafood, I have personally reviewed 12 establishments in this charming coastal town, all in pursuit of finding the most delectable and unforgettable culinary experiences for you.

Traverse City is renowned for its fresh catch and thriving seafood scene, and this guide is the culmination of my exhaustive research. Whether you are a seafood connoisseur or simply a lover of delicious cuisine, let me be your trusted companion on this mouthwatering journey through Traverse City's best seafood offerings.

Firefly Restaurant

Highlights
Great food
Friendly staff
Beautiful ambiance
Loved the Beach Burger
Delicious sweet potato fries

First and foremost, the food at Firefly deserves a round of applause. The seafood dishes they offer are cooked to perfection, delivering a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. From the moment the first bite touched my lips, I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

The staff at Firefly adds a unique touch to the dining experience. They were not just attentive, but genuinely friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Their passion for the food they serve shone through in every interaction, making me feel like a cherished guest.

The ambiance of the restaurant is pure magic. The moment I stepped inside, I was surrounded by a beautiful blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. The soft lighting and tasteful decor created a cozy and inviting atmosphere that enhanced the entire dining experience.

One standout dish that I simply couldn't get enough of was the Beach Burger. The combination of perfectly grilled seafood nestled on a bed of fresh greens and topped with zesty sauce was a match made in heaven. Each bite was full of juicy goodness that had me craving more.

To complement my meal, I ordered a side of their sweet potato fries, and boy oh boy, were they delicious! The fries were cooked to crispy perfection, with just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of the seafood dishes.

In conclusion, Firefly Restaurant in Traverse City is a seafood lover's paradise. With a great selection of dishes, a friendly staff, and a beautiful ambiance, it offers a dining experience worth savoring. Don't miss out on the Beach Burger and those delightful sweet potato fries. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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

The Cottage

Highlights
Delicious food
Friendly service
Quick service
Generous portion
Simply delicious

Upon entering The Cottage, I was immediately drawn to the cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff greeted me with a warm smile, setting the tone for what turned out to be an exceptional dining experience.

I started off with a glass of chilled white wine to complement the seafood dishes I had been eagerly anticipating. The menu boasted a wide variety of options, from fresh fish to succulent shellfish. After much deliberation, I settled on the grilled salmon.

The scent of smoky grilled fish wafted through the air as my dish arrived. The beautifully plated salmon was cooked to perfection, with a subtle hint of seasoning that allowed the natural flavors to shine. Each bite was a symphony of textures and tastes, with a rich, buttery essence that left me craving more.

The service at The Cottage was swift and efficient, ensuring that there was no delay in satisfying my seafood cravings. The portion size was generous, leaving me happily satiated without feeling overwhelmed.

As a seafood aficionado, I appreciate when a restaurant can deliver on taste, service, and ambiance. The Cottage ticks all the boxes. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients and their skillful preparation truly shines through in every dish they serve.

In conclusion, The Cottage in Traverse City is a seafood lover's paradise. The delicious food, friendly and quick service, and generous portions make it a must-visit when exploring the seafood scene in Traverse City. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in their simply delicious creations.

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

Poppycocks

Highlights
Fresh and flavorful tomato soup
Wide variety of vegetables and flavors
Delicious mocktails and cocktails
Excellent tomato spinach Swiss soup
Friendly and helpful staff

Poppycocks in Traverse City offers a seafood-lover's dream come true. As soon as I stepped in, I was greeted by the inviting ambiance and the friendly staff, who were more than eager to help me navigate through their extensive menu.

One of the highlights of my visit was the fresh and flavorful tomato soup. It was a delightful start to my seafood adventure, bursting with the rich taste of ripe tomatoes. The depth of flavors in this dish truly impressed me.

Poppycocks also prides itself on its wide variety of vegetables and flavors. I was excited to try their seafood dishes paired with unique and creative vegetable combinations. The chefs clearly know how to balance the flavors, making each bite a delightful surprise.

To further enhance my experience, I decided to indulge in their delicious mocktails and cocktails. The mixologists at Poppycocks truly know their craft. Whether it was a refreshing mocktail to complement my meal or a well-crafted cocktail to celebrate the evening, they always hit the mark.

Another standout dish was the excellent tomato spinach Swiss soup. The combination of the creamy Swiss cheese, earthy spinach, and ripe tomatoes made for a soup that was both comforting and sophisticated. It was a true delight for my taste buds.

Overall, my experience at Poppycocks was exceptional. The fresh and flavorful dishes, the friendly and helpful staff, and the impressive range of flavors made this restaurant a standout choice for seafood lovers in Traverse City. If you're seeking a playful yet professional seafood experience, look no further than Poppycocks.

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

Sleder's Family Tavern

Sleder's Family Tavern in Traverse City is a seafood lover's dream come true! The charming and rustic atmosphere adds to the authenticity of the experience. The menu boasts an impressive variety of fresh and mouthwatering seafood options. Their Grilled Walleye is a must-try, perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection. The friendly staff and prompt service make dining at Sleder's a truly enjoyable experience. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in Traverse City!

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

Bubba's

Bubba's in Traverse City is a seafood lover's paradise! From the moment you walk through the door, the playful maritime decor sets the tone for a delicious adventure. Their menu boasts an impressive array of fresh catches, from succulent lobster to perfectly seared scallops. The flavorful dishes are expertly prepared, leaving your taste buds dancing with delight. Bubba's is definitely a must-visit spot for seafood enthusiasts in Traverse City!

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

Boathouse Restaurant

Boathouse Restaurant in Traverse City is a treasure trove of delectable seafood. The menu is a seafarer's dream, offering an array of fresh catches that will make your taste buds dance. From succulent lobster tail to melt-in-your-mouth seared scallops, every dish is crafted with skill and finesse. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service make Boathouse a top-notch dining destination. Don't forget to try their signature cocktails, perfectly complementing the flavors of the sea. A visit to Boathouse Restaurant is a must for seafood enthusiasts in Traverse City.

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

The Cooks’ House

The Cooks’ House in Traverse City is a seafood lover’s paradise. From their delicate crab cakes to their succulent scallops, every bite is a flavor explosion. The attention to detail in both presentation and taste is remarkable. Fresh ingredients and expertly executed dishes make this a must-visit spot for seafood enthusiasts. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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

Minervas Restaurant & Bar

Minervas Restaurant & Bar in Traverse City will transport your taste buds straight to the sea with their scrumptious selection of seafood dishes. From fresh oysters to succulent lobster tails, every bite is a flavor explosion. The playfully elegant ambiance only adds to the dining experience.

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

Apache Trout Grill

I must say, Apache Trout Grill is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood in Traverse City. The playful yet professional atmosphere adds a delightful touch to the dining experience. The menu boasts a wide array of fresh and flavorful seafood options. My taste buds were absolutely delighted by the succulent grilled salmon and the perfectly seasoned crab cakes. The attentive and friendly staff ensured a top-notch service. Apache Trout Grill is definitely a must-try for seafood enthusiasts visiting Traverse City.

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

Harrington's By The Bay

Harrington's By The Bay in Traverse City is a delightful seafood gem, offering a captivating dining experience. Their menu showcases a diverse range of fresh and flavorsome seafood dishes, expertly prepared by their talented chefs. Dive into their perfectly grilled fish or indulge in their succulent lobster, and you'll be transported to seafood heaven. The playful yet professional atmosphere adds a touch of magic to your dining experience. Trust me, seafood lovers, Harrington's By The Bay is an absolute must-visit when in Traverse City.

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

Thirsty Fish Sports Grille

Thirsty Fish Sports Grille is a hidden gem in Traverse City for seafood lovers. From the crispy calamari to the buttery lobster tails, their menu is an oceanic adventure. The friendly staff and lively atmosphere make it a great spot for a night out. Dive in and savor the sea!

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

Red Lobster

Red Lobster in Traverse City is a seafood destination that certainly reeks of deliciousness. From their luscious lobster bisque, to their tender and flaky fish fillets, this place will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Don't forget to indulge in their to-die-for buttery lobster rolls that will transport you straight to seafood heaven.

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