Hartford’s historic riverfront whispers tales of maritime glory, yet its seafood scene feels decidedly modern. From oyster bars where shuckers work with surgeon’s precision to cozy spots serving chowder that could warm a New England winter, these twelve establishments prove Connecticut’s capital isn’t just about insurance—it’s about inspired crustaceans and flawless fillets.
Chosen 1 Cajun Seafood
$$ | (860) 726-4089 | WEBSITE
Whether we’re stopping by this Hartford seafood spot to grab a quick lunch or to just pick up a bagged boil for a casual night in, we always end up ordering more than we intended. Once you taste the Cajun seasoning, you’ll understand why.
The Capital Grille
$$$$ | (860) 244-0075 | WEBSITE
The Capital Grille is iconic and over-discussed for good reason. The classic steakhouse looks like the set of a movie that takes place in a power-lunch scene and anchors the area near Hartford’s conference centers. It’s open for dinner and is always full of business travelers and celebration groups. And, on a special night with a dry martini and the right company, their dining room is one of the most glorious places you can sit in the city.
Come for an anniversary or plop down at a booth and eat filet mignon with mushrooms and figs and truffle fries. Just don’t settle for one of those cramped tables near the kitchen where the bustle might distract you. What are you, in a hurry?
Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar
$$ | (860) 461-7346 | WEBSITE
Island Fish Head Jamaican Restaurant and Jay’s Smoothie Bar has long been a Hartford-area favorite, but the 2026 update to the best seafood list really cemented its popularity. It’s run by a welcoming team, so you can get phenomenal, Caribbean-adjacent hits like perfectly spiced jerk chicken, incredibly flavorful escovitch fish, an addictive beef patty, and a comforting chicken and vegetarian soup. But it’s because of the great atmosphere, too.
The accessible, vibrant Jamaican spot is always filled with locals, families, or friends taking a break and toying with the idea of coming back for smoothies and juices.
Johnson Fish Market
$$$ | (860) 727-9205 | WEBSITE
When you’re craving seafood that’s fresh off the boat, or you just want to dive into some seriously good crab cakes, head straight to Johnson Fish Market. Also if you’re hoping to enjoy a meal that won’t break the bank, this is definitely the place to do it.
The Rockin Chicken
$ | (860) 244-2536 | WEBSITE
The Rockin Chicken makes reliably good Peruvian-style food, both classic—like the savory Lomo Saltado and flavorful Tallarines Verde—and unconventional like the chargrilled chicken chaufa rice. It’s also a great value, making it a perfect choice for a family meal or a casual weeknight dinner.
Just Fish 172
$ | (860) 816-1436 | WEBSITE
For many seafood lovers in Hartford, Just Fish 172 is a reliable go-to spot. Tables typically fill up during peak dinner hours. But if you’re in the neighborhood, you’ll find that it’s actually pretty easy to get a seat if you arrive before the rush. And the fish dishes are consistently satisfying. Start with the crispy fried salmon and then move into those generous catfish fillets.
Aqui Me Quedo Restaurant
$ | (860) 522-1717 | WEBSITE
Aquí Me Quedo Restaurant is one of many Puerto Rican eateries in Hartford, but unlike the others, this one feels like the neighborhood spot where abuelas perfected their recipes before the family moved stateside. Before the Chuleta Fritas and friendly service, this welcoming space was just another storefront, and it still feels like you could walk in and ask for extra sofrito without anyone hesitating.
All of their dishes are top-notch (especially the Chuleta Fritas), and skipping the owner’s warm welcome would be a mistake. It’s all a bit homey and familiar, but that’s what makes Aquí Me Quedo work.
Ravi’s Restaurant
$ | (860) 920-9889 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of good seafood spots around Hartford, but Ravi’s Restaurant is up there with the best in the city. Most of the pasta dishes are shareable—make sure to get the shrimp pasta and jerk salmon pasta—and it’s always just the right amount of bright inside, which makes it feel a little special, especially if you end up here on a weekend. If you want to do it up, get a little adventurous and try the jerk chicken pasta for that subtle punch of flavor.
Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar
$$ | (860) 904-7181 | WEBSITE
Most people come to Hook & Reel for things like the all-you-can-eat seafood boil with snow crab, potatoes, and their signature spicy sauce or a lively evening at the bar with friendly bartenders. But since the Cajun seafood spot serves everything well, it’s no surprise that they provide exceptional service, too. The attentive staff like Bella and Emily make sure you have a memorable time, whether you’re bringing family and friends or just looking for a great atmosphere.
It’s all reasonably priced, so you can enjoy the high-quality seafood without worrying about saving room for your next visit—though you’ll definitely want to return.
El Nopal Mexican Restaurant
$ | (860) 231-0054 | WEBSITE
The menu at this Mexican spot gets creative with things like birria tacos dipped in rich consommé and tres leches cake soaked in three milks. But they also do straightforward classics well, like the ground beef tacos and veggie burritos. With lunch deals running through 5pm, you can drop in here between errands or sneak out of work a little early for some horchata and a snack.
Primavera Pub
$$ | (860) 953-7411 | WEBSITE
Primavera Pub feels like the next generation of neighborhood pubs: the food is better, you don’t need reservations, and you’ll feel like you’re eating a home-cooked meal at a friend’s kitchen rather than at a typical Hartford seafood spot. They serve generous portions at reasonable prices, with popular dishes like the seafood mix with tender squid and the margherita pizza with crispy crust that change with the seasons.
To get a table, you’ll need to be ready for a wait if visiting during prime hours. This is the only place in Hartford where you can eat authentic Portuguese cuisine and specialty drinks while chatting with friendly bartenders—all while you watch them prepare another round of chicken parmigiana with rich marinara sauce in the clean, inviting setting.
Rinconcito peruano
$$ | (860) 726-4876 | WEBSITE
Rinconcito peruano, one of Hartford’s best Peruvian spots, is perfect for nearly any occasion. Come for pre-event tostones and ceviche with a friend or two. Walk in with a colleague when you want to chow down on shrimp fried rice, split a bottle of wine, and people-watch near the windows. Or come with a big group and share the fried chicken, Picante de Mariscos, and a couple of the tasty tamales. It’s a nice and lively scene, and always worth the visit near The Bushnell.
