10 Oregon Seafood Chains That Locals Agree Are Worth Every Dollar
Oregon’s coastline feels like one endless postcard—rugged cliffs, salt-kissed air, and seafood so fresh it practically tells its own story.
Living here has spoiled me with chowders rich enough to warm a foggy day, fish and chips crisped to perfection, and crab feasts that taste like pure coastal joy.
But not every seafood stop earns the locals’ trust. Forget the crowded tourist traps—these are the chains that Oregonians actually swear by, where the flavors are honest, the portions generous, and every bite carries the unmistakable taste of the Pacific.
1. Mo’s Seafood & Chowder
My grandmother used to take me to Mo’s when I was seven, and that clam chowder became my gold standard for everything seafood. Founded in 1946, this Oregon institution serves up bowls of creamy goodness that’ll warm you from the inside out on those chilly coastal days.
Their fish and chips come with massive portions that could feed a small army. The batter stays crispy even when you’re halfway through your meal, which is basically wizardry in my book.
With multiple locations along the coast, you’re never too far from a Mo’s fix. Check out their menu and find your nearest location at ilovemoschowder.com for your next coastal adventure.
2. Anthony’s at the Old Mill District
Bend isn’t exactly oceanfront property, but Anthony’s brings Pacific Northwest seafood inland with style and sophistication. Their commitment to sustainable fishing practices means you can enjoy your salmon without the guilt trip.
I once celebrated my birthday here and ordered the Dungeness crab cakes that practically melted on my tongue. The chefs really know how to let quality ingredients shine without drowning them in unnecessary sauces or complicated preparations.
Their happy hour deals make premium seafood accessible without requiring a second mortgage. The riverside patio seating adds that special touch, making every meal feel like a mini vacation from your everyday routine.
3. Salty’s on the Columbia
Perched along the Columbia River, Salty’s offers views that rival the food on your plate. Their Sunday brunch buffet is legendary among locals who know good seafood when they taste it, featuring everything from smoked salmon to fresh oysters.
I brought my seafood-skeptic friend here once, and she converted faster than you can say Dungeness crab. The staff treats you like family, remembering preferences and making recommendations that actually match your taste buds.
Their commitment to Northwest ingredients means seasonal menus that keep things exciting year-round. Visit saltys.com to make reservations because this place fills up faster than a fishing net during salmon season.
4. McGrath’s Fish House
Started right here in Oregon back in 1980, McGrath’s feels like your favorite uncle’s backyard cookout but with way better seafood. Their portions are generous enough to satisfy even the hungriest fisherman after a long day on the water.
The blackened salmon I ordered last month had just the right amount of spice without setting my mouth on fire. They’ve mastered that tricky balance between flavorful seasoning and actually tasting the fish itself, which too many places forget about.
Kids eat free on certain nights, making it perfect for families who want quality without breaking the bank. The relaxed atmosphere means you can show up in your jeans and flannel without feeling underdressed or out of place.
5. Red Lobster
Yes, it’s a national chain, but Oregon locations bring their own coastal flair to the table. Those Cheddar Bay Biscuits are basically edible pillows of happiness that I’ve tried (and failed) to recreate at home approximately seventeen times.
Their Endless Shrimp promotion turns into a personal challenge every time I visit. The servers have seen me at my most determined, working through plate after plate with the focus of an Olympic athlete.
The Ultimate Feast lives up to its name, offering a sampler of everything good in life. Check out redlobster.com for current promotions and menu updates that keep things interesting throughout the year.
6. Bag O’ Crab
Forget fancy silverware and white tablecloths because Bag O’ Crab embraces the beautiful mess that is seafood eating. They dump your order right onto butcher paper, complete with bibs and mallets, turning dinner into an interactive experience.
My first visit here involved butter dripping down my arms and zero regrets about life choices. The Cajun seasoning blend hits different, with layers of flavor that build as you work through your seafood mountain.
Choose your spice level wisely unless you enjoy tears streaming down your face (the good kind, though). Visit bagocrabusa.com to explore their menu and prepare yourself for deliciously messy hands and a genuinely satisfied stomach.
7. The Rockin’ Crab & Boiling Pot
Walking into Rockin’ Crab feels like crashing a Louisiana beach party right here in Oregon. Their boils come loaded with extras like sausage and potatoes that soak up all those incredible spices and flavors.
I appreciate how they let you customize everything from seafood selection to heat level to extra garlic butter. The staff genuinely enjoys helping first-timers navigate the menu, explaining the difference between their signature sauces without making you feel clueless.
Portions are sized for sharing, making it perfect for groups who like communal dining experiences. Find them on Yelp for locations, hours, and reviews from other seafood enthusiasts who’ve experienced the delicious chaos.
8. Kura Revolving Sushi Bar
Watching plates of sushi glide past on a conveyor belt never gets old, no matter how many times I visit Kura. The novelty factor alone makes it worth checking out, but the quality keeps me coming back regularly.
Their pricing system uses color-coded plates, making it easy to track spending without doing mental math while enjoying your meal. The salmon nigiri tastes incredibly fresh, and their creative rolls balance traditional techniques with playful Oregon-inspired ingredients.
Kids absolutely love the interactive ordering system and the surprise toys you earn after eating certain amounts. The technology meets tradition approach creates a dining experience that feels both futuristic and comfortingly familiar at the same time.