9 New Jersey Seafood Chains That Locals Swear Are Worth Every Splurge

New Jersey’s seafood scene is as bold and unforgettable as the Jersey Shore itself.

From butter-drenched lobster rolls to perfectly seared scallops, the Garden State delivers ocean-fresh flavors that can hold their own against any coastal hotspot in America.

I grew up chasing the catch of the day along these shores, and one thing never changes: locals know exactly where to splurge.

These nine seafood chains have earned loyal followings for turning higher prices into dining experiences you’ll crave long after the last bite.

1. Bahrs Restaurant & Marina: A Century Of Seafood Excellence

My first date with my husband happened at Bahrs, where the panoramic views of Sandy Hook Bay had me almost as smitten as my dinner companion! This Highlands institution has been serving spectacular seafood since 1917, and the generations of experience show in every dish.

Their legendary seafood platters arrive piled high with the day’s freshest catches. The clam chowder recipe hasn’t changed in decades because, frankly, perfection needs no improvement. Local fishermen still deliver their catches directly to Bahrs’ dock daily.

What keeps regulars coming back isn’t just nostalgia—it’s the consistently excellent food. While prices might make your wallet wince momentarily, the jumbo lump crab cakes and broiled lobster tails will have you planning your return visit before you’ve finished dessert.

2. Dock’s Oyster House: Atlantic City’s Pearl Of Seafood

Last anniversary, I splurged on Dock’s famous crab au gratin, and let me tell you—I still dream about that decadent dish! Operating since 1897, this Atlantic City landmark has survived Prohibition, the Great Depression, and countless casino openings and closings.

Family-owned for four generations, Dock’s exudes old-world charm with its dark wood paneling and veteran servers who know regular customers by name. The raw bar showcases oysters from both coasts, each variety described with the enthusiasm usually reserved for fine drinks.

Piano music fills the air nightly, creating the perfect backdrop for savoring their signature stuffed flounder. Though certainly not cheap, Dock’s portions are generous, and the quality is unmatched—making even the highest-priced seafood tower seem like a reasonable indulgence for special occasions.

3. Point Lobster Company: From Boat To Plate Perfection

Holy mackerel! The first time I bit into Point Lobster’s lobster roll, I nearly fell off my chair—it was that good! This Point Pleasant Beach market-turned-eatery started as a wholesale operation and evolved into a seafood lover’s paradise where locals willingly line up around the block.

The retail counter displays that day’s haul on ice—glistening fish filets, plump scallops, and live lobsters crawling in tanks. Their kitchen transforms these treasures into unfussy, perfectly executed dishes. The lobster mac and cheese should be illegal, it’s so addictively rich!

While not a fancy sit-down restaurant (seating is limited and casual), Point Lobster Company’s food quality rivals establishments charging twice as much. Pro tip: their take-home seafood boils make for an impressive dinner party centerpiece without the fuss of preparation.

4. Shore Fresh Seafood: The Local’s Secret Seafood Sanctuary

“You’re not a true Jersey shore regular until you’ve eaten at Shore Fresh,” my grandmother declared on my 10th birthday as she introduced me to their legendary fried shrimp basket. This no-frills Point Pleasant market and restaurant has been my family’s go-to for three generations.

The menu doesn’t waste space on fancy descriptions—it doesn’t need to. Everything arrives perfectly cooked, generously portioned, and bursting with flavor that only comes from ultra-fresh seafood. Their fish sandwiches barely fit on the plate, and the seafood bisque has converted even the most stubborn soup skeptics I know.

Prices have crept up over the years, but locals still flock here because the quality remains uncompromised. The BYOB policy helps offset the cost, making those spontaneous Tuesday night seafood feasts feel slightly less indulgent on the wallet.

5. Sweet Amalia Market & Kitchen: Oyster Paradise In South Jersey

“These oysters will change your life,” promised my foodie cousin before dragging me to Sweet Amalia’s on a random Tuesday afternoon. She wasn’t exaggerating! Tucked away in Newfield, this South Jersey gem marries farm-fresh ingredients with the bounty of local waters.

Named after owner Lisa Calvo’s grandmother, Sweet Amalia began as an oyster farm before expanding to include this market and kitchen. Their signature Sweet Amalia oysters are raised in the pristine waters of Cape May Salt Oyster Beds, resulting in a perfect balance of brininess and sweetness that’s impossible to find elsewhere.

Beyond outstanding oysters, their seafood sandwiches deserve their own fan club. The blackboard menu changes daily based on availability, ensuring everything is at peak freshness. Yes, you’ll pay more than at a typical seafood shack, but the extraordinary quality and innovative preparations justify every penny.

6. Legal Sea Foods: Corporate Chain With Local Fish Flair

Confession time: I used to be a total chain restaurant snob until a thunderstorm forced my family into Legal Sea Foods at Newark Airport. That impromptu dinner completely changed my perspective! Despite being part of a larger restaurant group, Legal Sea Foods maintains impressive quality control and seafood sourcing standards.

Their clam chowder has won multiple awards, and for good reason—it’s creamy without being heavy, packed with tender clams and just the right amount of herbs. The extensive menu covers everything from simply grilled fish to elaborate seafood casseroles, all executed with surprising consistency.

Yes, you’ll pay premium prices, especially at their mall and airport locations. However, the freshness guarantees, sustainable fishing commitments, and allergy-friendly protocols make Legal a reliable choice when you’re craving seafood but aren’t near your favorite local spot. Their lobster rolls aren’t cheap, but they’re packed with meat—no filler here!

7. The Crab’s Claw Inn: Lavallette’s Legendary Crab Heaven

“Order the garlic crabs or don’t bother coming back,” joked my uncle on my first visit to The Crab’s Claw Inn. Twenty years later, I still follow his advice religiously! This Lavallette institution has been satisfying seafood cravings since 1979 with its legendary crab dishes and lively atmosphere.

Walking in feels like joining a perpetual shore party—walls covered in quirky decorations, friendly staff shouting greetings over the din, and the intoxicating aroma of garlic and seafood hanging in the air. Their Maryland-style crab cakes contain barely enough filler to hold together the sweet jumbo lump meat, while the garlic crabs are a glorious mess worth every napkin you’ll destroy.

Summer waits can stretch beyond an hour, but locals know to arrive early or visit in shoulder season. The prices reflect the generous portions and premium ingredients—one order of king crab legs could feed a small family!

8. Blue Point Grill: Princeton’s Fresh Catch Phenomenon

Who would expect world-class seafood in landlocked Princeton? My first skeptical visit to Blue Point Grill ended with me apologizing to my date for doubting her recommendation! This downtown Princeton hotspot proves daily that premium seafood isn’t just for coastal towns.

The chalkboard menu changes twice daily based on what’s been delivered, with over a dozen types of fish offered in simple preparations that showcase natural flavors. Nothing stays overnight—what doesn’t sell gets discarded, guaranteeing extraordinary freshness. Their raw bar features oyster varieties I’d never encountered before, each described with the passion of a sommelier discussing vintage drinks

The no-reservations policy means weekend waits can test your patience, but regulars know it’s worth it. While certainly not budget-friendly, Blue Point’s transparency about sourcing and commitment to quality justify prices that might otherwise raise eyebrows for seafood served 60 miles from the ocean.

9. Klein’s Fish Market & Waterside Café: Belmar’s Waterfront Wonder

“Meet me at Klein’s” became our family’s summer rallying cry after discovering this Belmar gem during a spontaneous beach day fifteen years ago. Part fish market, part restaurant, all delicious—Klein’s offers the complete Jersey shore seafood experience with stunning Shark River views as a bonus.

The market section displays the day’s bounty on ice, which you can either take home or have prepared in the restaurant. Their lobster bisque recipe remains a closely guarded secret, though I suspect the answer involves actual gold given how luxuriously rich it tastes. Summer weekends transform the outdoor deck into a lively scene with live music and flowing drinks.

While menu prices might initially cause sticker shock, the portion sizes and quality quickly dispel any buyer’s remorse. Their seafood platters could easily feed two hungry adults, making them secretly reasonable when shared—though I’ve never successfully resisted ordering my own!