Williamsburg is a seafood lover’s delight. With the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic fisheries nearby, the area enjoys access to some of the East Coast’s freshest seafood. From oysters to crab cakes to just-caught caught fish, these top-ranked local restaurants showcase the region’s maritime bounty — proving that seafood is one of Williamsburg’s most memorable culinary highlights.
Casa Pearl
The casually modern 🔺Casa Pearl is a favorite for oysters, ceviche, and delectable fish tacos. The raw bar features selections straight from the Chesapeake Bay, and the signature pairing of oysters and tacos makes for some creative menu combinations. They also serve up a fantastic whole grilled fish of the day, perfectly prepared with chili oil, Romesco sauce, Brussels sprouts, and shaved fennel. Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss this gem.
Riverwalk Restaurant
Along the York River in Yorktown, 🔺Riverwalk Restaurant is known and loved for its fresh seafood and water views. The restaurant sources ingredients from local farms and fisheries, so the menu shifts with the seasons. Reviews often mention the crab cakes, scallops, and she-crab soup. The classic Riverwalk Crab Cakes come with a whole-grain mustard sauce, served alongside garlic mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus.
Christiana Campbell’s Tavern
Another spot famous for crab cakes is Christiana Campbell’s Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg. Frequently visited by George Washington, this historic 18th-century tavern has been serving seafood for centuries. Also try the seafood pye — inspired by a 1773 recipe, it’s brimming with fish, scallops, shrimp, and lobster in a savory gravy. The restaurant is open for dinner only, and reservations are recommended. Explore more places to eat in Colonial Williamsburg.
Berret’s Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill
In Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square, Berret's Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill is a longtime favorite known for its coastal cuisine and historic charm. Fresh seasonal catches here include sea trout and striped bass in the spring; flounder, cobia, tuna, wahoo, and bluefish in the summer; and rockfish, red fish, and sea bass each fall. Try the Original Blue Plate to sample she-crab soup, baked oysters Rockefeller, grilled shrimp, and a sautéed backfin crabcake.
Ember
Near Merchants Square, Ember is a seafood-forward restaurant with a modern vibe. Standouts include the calamari small plate (with katsu, gochujang barbecue sauce, chipotle aioli, and lemon zest), the Scallops & Risotto (with roasted tomatoes and crispy pancetta), and the sushi. From elaborate “chef’s special” rolls to simple rolls, you’re sure to get a good sushi fix here. Plus, the craft cocktails make for a celebratory night out.
Waypoint Seafood & Grill
The upscale 🔺Waypoint Seafood & Grill from Chef Hans Schadler prides itself on Tidewater cuisine and genuine Southern hospitality. Menu highlights include pan-seared scallops with a pesto drizzle, Chesapeake Bay crab cakes, macadamia-crusted salmon, and a delightful seafood pappardelle chock full of ruby red trout, scallops, shrimp, and spinach with a diablo sauce. Find the perfect drink pairing on their well-curated wine list.
Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant
Indulge in a feast fit for royalty at Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant, a longtime local favorite known for its seafood buffet. Enjoy over 70 premium selections, from the famous Alaskan snow crab legs and Oysters Rockefeller to fried shrimp to fresh fish prepared in a variety of ways. With non-seafood options like steak, chicken, BBQ ribs, and more, there’s something for everyone in your crew.
Fat Tuna Grill
A local chef-owned restaurant, 🔺Fat Tuna Grill is a Williamsburg favorite known for its top-shelf raw bar, expertly prepared seafood, and welcoming coastal atmosphere. With popular dishes like Oysters Rockefeller, crab ravioli, stuffed flounder, and cioppino (a savory seafood stew), it’s a go-to for memorable seafood in the heart of town. Be sure to ask about the catch of the day.
Oceans & Ale
At Oceans & Ale, find casual, crowd-pleasing seafood in a lively setting. Popular picks include the seafood nachos, seafood spring rolls, jumbo lump crab cakes, seafood pot pie, and she-crab soup. Besides satisfying seafood, you’ll find a great selection of craft beers and bourbon.
Umi Sushi
Yorktown’s intimate 🔺Umi Sushi offers carefully assembled sushi rolls filled with fresh, delicious ingredients. You’ll also find an assortment of sashimi and some Korean favorites like bulgogi. Add some premium sake or green tea mochi ice cream to make it a rewarding meal.
Water Street Grille
Also in Yorktown, Water Street Grille offers local seafood and pub fare classics with scenic river views. Start with the oysters (raw, steamed, or fried) and firecracker shrimp, then move on to popular mains like the fried seafood platter or house-made crab cakes with remoulade. Plus, enjoy a great selection of craft beers on tap.
More Great Seafood Around Town
Restaurants that aren’t necessarily seafood-forward often serve up delicious fish and shellfish. The award-winning bistro 🔺Fat Canary, the inventive Amber Ox Public House, and the elevated Cochon on 2nd all offer standout scallop entrees and other expertly crafted seafood dishes.
Look for seafood on the menu when you visit the best restaurants in Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown.
Dig Deeper Into Williamsburg’s Food Scene
From great casual restaurants to fine dining fit for a special occasion, foodies of every style can find flavors to love in Williamsburg. Explore more about the area’s dynamic food & drink scene.