Georgia’s coastline and vibrant cities offer seafood lovers a treasure trove of dining options. From historic Savannah buildings to Atlanta’s modern eateries, the Peach State serves up everything from classic shrimp and grits to innovative oyster creations. Pack your appetite and hit the road to discover these ten exceptional seafood destinations that showcase Georgia’s unique culinary heritage.
1. The Crab Shack – Tybee Island’s Quirky Paradise
Known affectionately as ‘Where the Elite Eat in Their Bare Feet,’ this rambling outdoor eatery sits nestled among marshlands on the way to Tybee Island. Alligators swim in a lagoon beneath the deck while diners crack into seafood feasts above.
The Captain’s Seafood Platter arrives piled high with low country boil essentials – snow crab, shrimp, mussels, and potatoes – all seasoned with their secret spice blend. Paper-covered tables come equipped with holes for discarding shells, embracing the messy joy of seafood dining.
Look for the resident cats who roam freely throughout the property, nicknamed ‘Crab Cats’ by the staff who rescued them from the nearby marina.
2. River House Seafood – Savannah’s Historic Gem
Nestled in an 18th-century cotton warehouse along Savannah’s iconic River Street, River House Seafood delivers Southern coastal cuisine with historic charm. The exposed brick walls and river views create an atmosphere as memorable as the food.
Their shrimp and grits showcases local ingredients with a creamy, flavorful profile that keeps locals returning. The she-crab soup, rich with Atlantic blue crab and finished with a splash of sherry, has achieved legendary status among regulars.
For the ultimate experience, request a window table at sunset and watch massive cargo ships glide by while savoring their pecan-crusted catch of the day.
3. The Shrimp Factory – Riverfront Classic
Family-owned since 1977, The Shrimp Factory occupies another historic cotton warehouse along Savannah’s bustling riverfront. The nautical-themed interior features fishing nets, buoys, and captains’ wheels that transport diners to a coastal hideaway.
Their signature dish, ‘Savannah Stuffed Shrimp,’ wraps jumbo shrimp around crab meat stuffing before being baked to golden perfection. Don’t miss their legendary hush puppies – crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and served with honey butter.
After dinner, step directly onto River Street for a leisurely stroll past boutiques and candy shops where you can watch praline makers craft sweet Georgia treats.
4. Georgia Sea Grill – St. Simons Island Farm-to-Table
Tucked into the heart of St. Simons Island, Georgia Sea Grill elevates coastal cuisine through unwavering commitment to freshness. Chef-owner Zack Gowen maintains relationships with local fishermen who deliver their catch directly to the kitchen door each morning.
The restaurant grows many of its herbs and vegetables in its own garden, ensuring the sweet potato puree beneath your blackened grouper traveled mere yards to your plate. Their famous crab cakes contain virtually no filler – just lump crab meat held together by culinary magic and a whisper of seasoning.
The intimate dining room features reclaimed wood from island structures, connecting the space to its coastal heritage while you dine.
5. Crabdaddy’s Seafood Bar – Island Family Favorite
What began as a tiny seafood shack in 1988 has evolved into St. Simons Island’s beloved culinary institution without losing its unpretentious charm. The knotty pine walls display local artwork while ceiling fans lazily spin overhead, creating an atmosphere that feels like dinner at a friend’s coastal cottage.
Their ‘Grouper Imperial’ – topped with shrimp, scallops and crab in a light cream sauce – exemplifies the generous portions that have made Crabdaddy’s a multi-generational favorite. Regulars know to save room for the homemade key lime pie, which strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet.
Unlike trendier spots, reservations aren’t accepted, creating a community of patient diners who happily swap island stories while waiting for tables.
6. The Optimist – Atlanta’s Urban Fish Camp
Housed in a former ham distribution facility in Atlanta’s Westside, The Optimist transformed industrial bones into a sophisticated ‘fish camp’ that would impress even coastal purists. The dramatic oyster bar, crafted from reclaimed wood, serves as the restaurant’s beating heart where shuckers work with mesmerizing precision.
Executive Chef Adam Evans sources seafood from sustainable fisheries nationwide, resulting in a menu that changes with ocean conditions rather than seasons. The wood-hearth roasted whole Georgia trout, deboned tableside and dressed with brown butter, captures the restaurant’s elegant-yet-approachable philosophy.
Before dinner, try your hand at the indoor putting green – a whimsical nod to leisure activities at traditional fish camps.
7. Atlanta Fish Market – Buckhead’s Seafood Monument
You can’t miss the 65-foot copper fish sculpture marking Atlanta Fish Market’s location in upscale Buckhead. This Atlanta institution has flown in fresh seafood daily since 1981, when quality ocean fare in the landlocked city was revolutionary.
The restaurant’s bustling fish counter displays dozens of varieties on ice, allowing diners to select their exact fillet before preparation. Their Hong Kong-style preparation – steamed with ginger, scallions and soy – showcases the clean flavors of premium fish without unnecessary embellishment.
Celebrity sightings are common in the mahogany-paneled dining room, though the massive copper bar remains the social center where bartenders craft perfect martinis to accompany trays of just-shucked oysters.
8. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen – Cajun Flair in Marietta
Massive chandeliers and New Orleans-inspired decor set the stage at this lively Marietta establishment where Cajun flavors meet generous Georgia hospitality. Despite being part of a small family-owned chain, each location maintains its distinct personality through local artwork and regional specials.
The crawfish étouffée delivers authentic Louisiana flavor with a slow-building heat that never overwhelms the delicate seafood. For the indecisive, their seafood platter offers a tour of Gulf favorites – fried shrimp, oysters, catfish and soft-shell crab – all accompanied by crispy cajun-spiced fries.
Weekend brunches feature live jazz alongside crawfish benedicts and seafood omelets, creating a festive atmosphere that transforms a simple meal into a celebration.
9. The Steamhouse Lounge – Midtown’s Seafood Pub
What this unassuming Midtown Atlanta spot lacks in pretension, it makes up for in personality and phenomenal seafood. The multilevel converted house feels like a coastal dive bar transplanted to the city, complete with nautical knickknacks and a covered patio perfect for cracking crab legs.
Their award-winning lobster bisque achieves cult-like devotion among Atlantans – velvety, brandy-kissed, and generously studded with chunks of Maine lobster. Regulars know to order the off-menu ‘Knuckle Sandwich’ – a toasted hoagie overflowing with knuckle and claw meat dressed lightly with mayo and lemon.
During oyster season, the $1 oyster happy hour draws crowds of professionals unwinding after work with trays of briny bivalves and cold local craft beers.
10. Atlanta Highway Seafood Market – Gainesville’s Hidden Treasure
Half seafood market, half restaurant, this North Georgia gem attracts seafood enthusiasts willing to drive hours for authentic Cajun cuisine. The no-frills interior features simple tables surrounded by coolers of fresh fish for sale, creating an atmosphere of transparency about sourcing.
Their seafood gumbo achieves the perfect ‘brick roux’ – chocolate-colored and rich from hours of patient stirring. The po’boys arrive on authentic Leidenheimer bread imported from New Orleans, stuffed with crispy fried shrimp or oysters and dressed with house-made remoulade.
Owner Louis Soon personally selects seafood from Gulf Coast suppliers each week, maintaining relationships built over decades to ensure his customers receive only the freshest catch available in North Georgia.
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