Bellingham — If you’re a fan of high-quality seafood that’s fresh from a backyard source and live in Washington State, look no further than the Puget Sound. At just over 1,000 square miles, the Puget Sound is the second-largest estuary in the U.S. and home to over 3,000 species of invertebrates including oysters, clams, mussels and Dungeness crab, according to the National Wildlife Federation. The Sound is also home to over 200 species of marine fish, including salmon, steelhead trout and rockfish.
That bounty of fresh, local seafood also means that a plethora of seafood-themed restaurants exist in the region.
So we took a close look at publicly-posted Google customer seafood restaurant reviews and rankings around the borders of Puget Sound, from Bellingham in the north to Olympia about 150 miles to the south.
We picked out ten of the most popular restaurants according to the Google reviews. All restaurants included were ranked as four stars or higher on a five-star system. All reviews quoted in the article were written within the last six months or less:
Olympia
Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar
222 Capitol Way N.
360-915-7784
4.6 stars
780+ reviews
Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar is a vibrant waterfront restaurant and a local favorite at the Port of Olympia, just off the picturesque boardwalk with indoor and outdoor seating. Owned by second-generation oyster farmers Shina Wysocki and Kyle Lentz, they serve mouth-watering items like steamer clams and baked oysters with butter sauce. It is a quintessential seafood experience without the fuss. No reservations required.
“Visiting from out of state, we walked in with no reservation and the staff was pleased to make room for us,” writes Nick Coffman in his Google review. “The food was exceptionally delicious (loved the deconstructed clam chowder), our waiter was very helpful, and the whole experience was well above our expectations.”
Olympia Oyster House
320 4th Ave. W.
360-753-7000
4.1 stars
1,670+ reviews
While it has changed ownership and had some ups and downs over the years, the Olympia Oyster House remains a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Situated at the base of the Puget Sound just off the boat docks with extensive outdoor deck seating, their menu includes items like prosciutto-wrapped prawns, mushroom scampi and halibut burgers.
“Delicious and unique dishes for our group and a great location near the Capitol Building in Olympia,” writes Lance Roper in his review. “Not too long for a wait but we had a quick drink at the bar and walked out on the pier.”
Anthony’s Homeport Olympia
704 Columbia St. NW
360-357-9700
4.4 stars
1,440+ reviews
Known for their high-quality service, upscale atmosphere and views of the harbor from both inside and out, Anthony’s Homeport Olympia has long been a local favorite for an outstanding dining experience. Seasonal seafood selections like the highly-prized Copper River salmon adds to the draw for serious seafood lovers.
“Anthony’s never disappoints!,” writes Anthony Ballantine in his review. “The views alone are worth the experience, but they simply are the masters of preparing seafood. The staff is attentive at every step of dining, you’re never more than a course away from their care.”
Tacoma
Lobster Shop
4015 Ruston Way
253-759-2165
4.5 stars
2,225 reviews
An intimate waterfront restaurant with stunning views of Commencement Bay in Tacoma, the Lobster Shop serves up local favorites like lobster bisque, crabcakes, and aglio prawn pasta.
“I needed to take a friend to a really nice restaurant and I took a gamble on this one and it definitely did not disappoint,” writes Tony Luong in his review. “The service, ambiance, views, server, and most of all food across the board was absolutely delicious. I would definitely be coming here again!”
The Fish Peddler
1199 Dock St.
253-627-2158
4.5 stars
1,890+ reviews
Owned by parent company the Pacific Seafood Group, The Fish Peddler is a more casual dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating right on the water. The restaurant is known for its convenient location, waterfront views and robust menu which includes local raw oysters, coconut prawns and lobster rolls.
“Sat at the bar and had their raw oysters and clam chowder,” wrote Vanessa Serbola in her review. “Oysters were amazing and a decent size. Pairs very well with Odin beer (has a dinosaur on the tap). Clam chowder was very filling, hits the spot on a cold day. Make sure to get the large bowl. Will definitely come back here again.”
Seattle
Salty’s at Alki Beach
1936 Harbor Ave. SW
206-937-1600
4.6 stars
4,325 reviews
On the higher end in terms of price, Salty’s at Alki Beach is known for their outstanding waitstaff, epic waterfront views of Elliott Bay and an award-winning Sunday brunch service. Offering delicacies like Norwegian king crab and smothered rockfish, they also have an extensive wine menu.
“Fantastic service, wonderful food, and incredible scenery,” writes Ace Lawson in his review. “Be prepared to spend anywhere between $35-80 for entrees, but food is absolutely worth it. I recommend going at sunset so you can watch the view of the city.”
Ballard
Ray’s Boathouse
206-789-3770
6049 Seaview Ave. NW
4.5 stars
2,400+ reviews
Perched over the water with views of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound, Ray’s Boathouse is a fine-dining restaurant that is renowned for its elegant atmosphere and views as well as the menu. Customers can choose from items like wild Alaskan halibut and Penn Cove mussels. They also have extensive wine lists for both dinner and dessert.
“Can’t rate this place high enough,” writes Chris Telford in his review. “The upstairs bar is great, the view for the sunset was amazing and the food surpassed them both. Was there for a friend’s birthday, we had a great table, fantastic drinks and all the seafood ordered was fresh and some of the best I’ve had. Delicious.”
Anacortes
The Shrimp Shack
6168 State Route 20
360-293-2531
4.2 stars
2,090+ reviews
A popular place for seafood lovers, The Shrimp Shack in Anacortes is known for its affordable seafood options, family-friendly atmosphere and tasty fried menu options. Their menu emphasizes local seafood delicacies like medium coonstripe shrimp and fresh crab from the nearby Puget Sound waters.
“Loved the popcorn shrimp!” writes Jackie Owens in her review. “This place is almost always busy and I can see why. The menu is pretty extensive and includes non-seafood items and a kids menu. Lots of fun and we will return.”
Bow
Chuckanut Manor Seafood and Grill
3056 Chuckanut Drive
360-766-6191
4.6 stars
915+ reviews
A popular choice for seafood enthusiasts is Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill, just a short drive from Bellingham on scenic Chuckanut Drive. An elegant dining experience with a casual atmosphere and menu, diners can enjoy gorgeous views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands whether they are dining inside or outside. Popular menu items include halibut and chips with truffle fries, clam chowder and pan-fried oysters.
“Beautiful view, wonderful food and fantastic service! Never have we had a bad experience, or mediocre food at this restaurant,” writes Chris Crim in their review. “Fun to see sailboats in the sound and eagles flying right past your window. I’m not sure who the chef is but they are accomplished and we have dined at some pretty spectacular restaurants and this food is the best!”
Bellingham
Rock and Rye Oyster House
1145 N. State St.
360-746-6130
4.6 stars
900+ reviews
Located in the historic Herald building, Rock and Rye Oyster House is a Bellingham seafood and drinks favorite. In addition to their craft cocktails and extensive craft beer and cider menu, the restaurant also serves a seasonal menu that features inventive takes on delicacies like sauteed clams, steamed mussels and oyster chowder.
“Such a cute date night experience!” writes Molly Ronne. “Fried oysters were phenomenal — all seafood plates were fresh and delicious. I would definitely leave the littles at home when going. Our server, Pete, was attentive but respected our time and wasn’t overbearing.”
