12 Of Washington’s Most Coveted Seafood Reservations That Vanish Fast
Washington State is home to some of the most sought-after seafood restaurants in the country, thanks to its cold, clean coastal waters and skilled chefs who know how to let the ingredients shine.
These spots are known for their fresh oysters, buttery Dungeness crab, and perfectly cooked local fish. Tables fill fast, often weeks in advance, and regulars know not to wait around when reservations open.
Whether tucked in a fishing town or nestled in the city, these kitchens serve the kind of seafood that leaves a lasting impression.
1. Sushi Kashiba, Seattle
Chef Shiro Kashiba brings decades of experience to this intimate sushi spot that feels like stepping into Tokyo. His reputation alone fills seats weeks in advance, so spontaneous visits rarely work out.
Every piece of fish gets treated with respect and precision. The omakase menu changes based on what’s freshest, and watching the chefs work is half the fun.
Reservations open exactly one month ahead, and serious sushi fans set alarms to snag their spot. The bar seats offer the best view of the action and let you chat with the masters themselves.
2. Elliott’s Oyster House, Seattle
Right on the waterfront, this place has been shucking oysters since 1975 and knows how to do it right. They offer over a dozen varieties daily, each one tasting like the ocean itself.
The location puts you smack in the middle of tourist central, but locals still flock here for happy hour. Prime sunset tables disappear fast, especially during summer months when everyone wants that view.
Call at least a week ahead for weekend dinners. The raw bar never disappoints, and their chowder has won more awards than most restaurants serve customers.
3. RockCreek Seafood & Spirits, Seattle
Hidden in the Fremont neighborhood, RockCreek focuses on sustainable catches and creative preparations that make fish exciting again. Chef Eric Donnelly sources directly from trusted fishermen, ensuring quality that shines through every bite.
The menu reads like a love letter to the Pacific Northwest. Whole grilled fish, smoked oysters, and seasonal specials rotate constantly based on what boats bring in.
Weekend reservations fill up about two weeks out. Tuesday and Wednesday nights offer slightly better odds, but don’t wait too long or you’ll miss out.
4. Six Seven Restaurant, Seattle
Tucked inside the Edgewater Hotel, Six Seven delivers views that compete with the food for your attention. Floor to ceiling windows frame Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains like a living postcard.
I once tried to walk in on a Friday night and the host just laughed. Apparently everyone else had the same brilliant idea weeks before me.
Sunset reservations book fastest, obviously. The Dungeness crab cakes and pan seared salmon showcase local ingredients without trying too hard, letting natural flavors do the talking instead of fancy sauces.
5. Palisade, Seattle
This place feels like dining inside an aquarium, but in the best possible way. A massive indoor saltwater pond filled with tropical fish creates an unexpected backdrop for your meal.
The seafood towers here stack high with crab, shrimp, oysters, and clams that could feed a small army. Brunch reservations vanish quickest because their buffet spread is legendary among locals.
Book at least ten days ahead for weekends. The marina views and koi pond make special occasions feel extra memorable without being stuffy or pretentious about it.
6. Ray’s Boathouse, Seattle
Since 1973, Ray’s has been the gold standard for Seattle seafood, perched right on Shilshole Bay in Ballard. The downstairs boathouse offers fine dining while the upstairs cafe keeps things casual.
Their salmon gets cooked over alderwood, giving it that smoky Northwest flavor everyone craves. Watching boats glide past while cracking into Dungeness crab feels quintessentially Seattle.
Reserve two weeks minimum for the boathouse, though the cafe takes walk ins. Sunset tables book months ahead, so plan accordingly or settle for earlier seating times.
7. Canlis, Seattle
Canlis isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a Seattle institution that’s been wowing diners since 1950. The mid century architecture alone makes it worth visiting, but the seafood preparations push it into legendary territory.
Getting a reservation here requires serious advance planning. We’re talking months for prime times, not weeks.
The tasting menu features whatever’s freshest, often including spot prawns, halibut, or king salmon prepared with techniques that border on artistic. Dress code applies, so leave your sneakers home and embrace the fancy occasion.
8. Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar, Seattle
Taylor Shellfish farms their own oysters, clams, and mussels, so you’re basically eating straight from the source. The Capitol Hill location buzzes with energy as shuckers work their magic behind the counter.
Reservations help, but they also hold bar seats for walk ins if you’re feeling lucky. The variety of oysters available on any given day can make your head spin in the best way.
Weekend waits stretch long without booking ahead. Their happy hour deals make trying multiple varieties affordable, and the staff actually knows their stuff when you ask questions.
9. The Walrus And The Carpenter, Seattle
Named after the Lewis Carroll poem, this tiny Ballard spot has achieved cult status among oyster obsessives. Chef Renee Erickson created a space that feels both neighborhood hangout and special destination.
They don’t take reservations, which sounds insane given the crowds. Showing up right when they open gives you the best shot at snagging a table without waiting forever.
The menu changes daily based on availability. Besides oysters, their small plates showcase seasonal ingredients with French bistro influences that somehow feel perfectly Pacific Northwest at the same time.
10. Salty’s On Alki Beach, Seattle
Salty’s claims the best skyline view in Seattle, and honestly, it’s hard to argue. Sitting across the bay from downtown, you get the whole city spread out like a photograph.
Their Sunday brunch buffet is absolutely bonkers, featuring everything from smoked salmon to crab legs to made to order omelets. People book this weeks in advance for birthdays and celebrations.
Weeknight dinners offer easier reservation availability. The seafood stays consistently fresh, and watching ferries cruise past while you eat adds that quintessential Seattle waterfront experience everyone wants.
11. Duke’s Seafood, Seattle
Duke’s keeps things approachable without sacrificing quality, making it perfect for families or casual gatherings. They’ve expanded to multiple locations, but each one maintains that comfortable neighborhood vibe.
My kids actually request this place by name, which says something about their fish and chips game. The chowder wins awards regularly, and their commitment to sustainable seafood deserves recognition.
Reservations help during peak times, though waits rarely stretch too long. Happy hour specials make trying different dishes affordable, and the portions never leave anyone hungry or disappointed.
12. Anthony’s Pier 66 & Bell Street Diner, Seattle
Anthony’s offers two experiences under one roof: upscale dining upstairs and casual counter service at the diner below. Both share the same commitment to fresh, local seafood and amazing waterfront views.
The upstairs restaurant needs advance reservations, especially for window tables. Downstairs works great for quick lunches or when you want quality without the fuss.
Their chowder bar lets you sample different styles, and the fish gets delivered daily from trusted sources. Sunset timing books fastest, but any time of day delivers solid food and that classic Seattle pier atmosphere.