The 5 Best Seafood Restaurants in NJ

With great shorelines comes great seafood, and New Jersey has both of these in spades. However, with so many options it is a challenge to discern which of these restaurants are worthy of your time. Here you will find a few of the best seafood restaurants in nj to delight maximizing muscle your refined palate.

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

New Brunswick

Located in the heart of downtown New Brunswick, Salt is a two-story oyster bar and restaurant with a contemporary flair. According to Chef Christian, the menu reflects a desire to awaken the palate with a fusion of fresh and traditional flavors, creating new comforts. All of the ingredients for their dishes are regionally sourced and guaranteed fresh. From their entrees to their wine selection, the lively and passionate staff intend to provide bold flavors that will have you coming back every week. Some of their most notable dishes include their Crispy Skin Black Sea Bass, Charred Octopus, and Crab Cake. This is not to mention their exceptional array of raw oysters from both coasts of North America!

Oceanos

Fair Lawn

Steeped in Mediterranean tradition, this family owned restaurant imports the flavors of Greece to the Garden State. Self described as the best seafood restaurant in New Jersey, Oceanos may very well earn that title for their exceptional ambiance, food, and customer service. Dining services include both indoor and outdoor dining, with special rooms for private parties such as The Cellar and the Alcove. Aside from their curated wines and Greek olives, all of their complimentary baked goods are made fresh daily. In regards to their specialty, their Lavraki, Wood Grilled Swordfish, and Seafood Linguini are standout entrees that will transport your taste buds to the white sands of southern Europe. There’s plenty of other reasons why we named this one of the best seafood restaurants in NJ, but you’ll have to try for yourself! 

Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant

Long Branch

Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant is true to its name, with a prime location overlooking the Atlantic, making it an optimal space for date nights and special occasions. Aside from the breathtaking view, this establishment provides a combination of comfort food staples and fresh fare. One of the most notable options is the fully customizable fish board, which includes options for same-day catches. Aside from their fish board, some of their most exciting dishes are their Angry Lobster, Wasabi Panko Tuna and Rooney’s Combo. 

Dock’s Oyster House

Atlantic City

Founded in 1897, Dock’s is an upscale Atlantic City classic, and it is lauded for its culinary excellence. The restaurant offers a full raw bar with at least 10 different oysters every night, fresh seafood and regionally sourced produce, which is complimented by an award winning wine list. Be enchanted by the sound of the piano bar while indulging in one of the crowd favorites such as their Crab Au Gratin, Seafood Fry, or Pecan Crusted Salmon. Dock’s also provides private seating in their newly added second floor. If you find yourself in Atlantic City, make sure to plan a reservation at least two weeks in advance. Without a doubt, Dock’s Oyster House is the best seafood available on the Jersey shore, and its popularity reflects that.

Blue Point Grill

Princeton

Although last on our list of the best seafood restaurants in NJ, The Blue Point Grill is a BYOB, Zagat favored establishment with an emphasis on sustainability, only a few blocks away from Princeton University. Established in 1999, this restaurant surprises its guests with its ever-changing menu, based on what is caught fresh the same day. This daily catch is provided by Nassau Street Seafood and Produce Company, which is located adjacent to the restaurant. Despite its mercurial sensibilities, the staff’s dedication to culinary artistry and service is constant. When you sit down in their lively interior or their intimate rooftop arrangement, keep an eye out for their Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Whole Greek Bronzini and New England Clam Chowder. If you happen to have reservations for a Monday evening, also review their delectable sushi specials!