The 20 Best Seafood Restaurants in Tennessee

Boston Commons offers New England-style seafood in a bright, newly renovated space with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu focuses on fish and chips with crisp, light batter, alongside chowder, salads, and classic desserts. Guests note consistently attentive service and efficient management. The coastal-inspired décor reinforces the restaurant’s relaxed, neighborhood feel.

The Chop House offers classic American steakhouse fare in a polished, comfortable setting. Guests highlight tender filets, prime rib, and seafood such as salmon and chargrilled shrimp, along with satisfying pasta dishes. Service is attentive and accommodating, with staff noted for handling special requests and dietary needs with care. Consistent execution and a welcoming atmosphere define the dining experience.

Chesapeake's Seafood Restaurant offers a seafood-focused menu featuring fresh oysters, baked shrimp with crab, and classic sides. Guests describe the atmosphere as lively yet comfortable, suited to both small groups and casual gatherings. Attentive, friendly service and a downtown setting contribute to its appeal for locals and visitors alike.

Gourmet and Company offers contemporary American cuisine with thoughtful presentations, from seafood and steaks to seasonal salads, vegetarian options, and house-made specialties. Desserts, such as fruit pies, are frequently noted for their rich flavor. The atmosphere is polished yet comfortable, and attentive, professional service contributes to a consistently satisfying dining experience.

The Optimist offers contemporary seafood dishes in a stylish, converted warehouse setting with wood beams and bright blue booths. The kitchen focuses on well-executed plates, from fresh rolls to thoughtfully prepared fish such as swordfish and seafood rice. A bustling bar and knowledgeable, attentive service contribute to an engaging dining experience.

Bonefish Grill focuses on seafood and grilled dishes, with options such as mahi mahi, salmon, and steaks prepared to guests’ preferences. An active bar offers cocktails, including seasonal specialties. Service is notably attentive, with staff who explain the menu clearly and respond quickly to any concerns, emphasizing guest satisfaction throughout the visit.

Granny Fishes' House is a cozy, down-home spot known for its fried catfish and trout with a crisp cornmeal coating. Guests appreciate the welcoming staff, generous portions, and signature hushpuppies and onion rings. The compact dining room and living room–style waiting area create a relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere that suits unhurried meals of classic Southern seafood.

A & J's Catfish Station Memphis specializes in Southern-style catfish, served fried, grilled, or blackened with well-seasoned sides. Guests highlight the light, crispy coating on the fish, flavorful hush puppies, and vegetables like green beans. Crab cakes and strawberry cake also stand out in the reviews. Consistently attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere make it a popular spot for casual meals.

Greek Cafe offers generous portions of classic Greek specialties alongside familiar American comfort dishes. Diners highlight flavorful gyro and souvlaki platters, fresh salads, and lemon potatoes, served with warm pita and tzatziki. House-made desserts, including baklava and other pastries, round out the meal. A welcoming atmosphere and attentive service complete the experience.

Lagniappe Bayou Kitchen offers hearty Cajun comfort food in a casual, counter-service setting just outside Goodlettsville. Guests highlight flavorful staples such as chicken and andouille sausage gumbo, shrimp and grits, and catfish topped with étouffée. Portions are generous, dishes arrive hot and fresh, and friendly staff contribute to the welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Classic Southern sweets like banana pudding and beignets add a satisfying finish.

Soul Fish Cafe serves Southern-style seafood and comfort food in a clean, casual setting. Diners highlight the fried catfish, shrimp, and blackened salmon, along with classic sides such as mac and cheese, greens, and cornbread. Service is described as attentive and efficient, with staff keeping orders moving quickly while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.

Saltwater Crab offers a wide-ranging menu of seafood and sushi, from shared appetizers like calamari and seafood dip to generous specialty rolls and sandwiches. Fresh fish and carefully prepared rolls are a highlight, along with raw bar selections. Attentive service and a comfortable dining room are complemented by an inviting patio when the weather allows.

Flava Shack Seafood offers a broad selection of seafood dishes with a Cajun-influenced flair, from fried catfish and seafood pasta to crab combinations and seafood nachos. Made-to-order plates highlight fresh flavors and generous portions, complemented by rich appetizers like crawfish dip and indulgent house desserts. Service is generally welcoming, with a casual, lively atmosphere that suits both everyday meals and relaxed gatherings.

Cousins Maine Lobster brings classic New England–style seafood to Smyrna, with a focus on fresh lobster dishes. Diners highlight the Connecticut lobster roll, fried clams, and rich lobster specialties such as grilled cheese and mac and cheese. The setting evolves from its food truck roots into a casual restaurant with attentive, welcoming service. East Coast flavors are paired with simple sides and desserts, including whoopie cakes and ginger beer.

Bayou Boys offers Gulf-style seafood with a focus on fresh product brought in from Louisiana. Guests highlight raw and chargrilled oysters, catfish specialties, soft shell crab, and shrimp dishes for their well-balanced seasoning and careful preparation. The dining room is noted as clean and comfortable, with attentive staff and the kitchen team often checking on tables to ensure a pleasant experience.