12 Must-Try Seafood Restaurants in Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a vibrant city with a rich blend of cultures and traditions, with endless options for food.
If you are a seafood enthusiast, you’re in for a treat, as this city boasts some of the most fantastic seafood restaurants.
Albuquerque’s seafood places have covered you whether you’re craving succulent shrimp scampi, a hearty fish and chips platter, or fresh sushi rolls.
We’ve done the challenging work for you and compiled a list of the best seafood restaurants in Albuquerque that will leave you wanting more. From casual to fine-dining experiences, the seafood scene in the city has it all.
So, if you’re ready to indulge in some mouth-watering dishes, keep reading to discover the top seafood restaurants in Albuquerque that you can’t miss.
Seafood Restaurants in Albuquerque
Pappadeaux Albuquerque
Pappadeaux is one of the biggest family-owned restaurant companies in the US that serve delicious seafood dishes.
Their extensive menu includes fried seafood, lobster, steak, soups, salads, and desserts. If you’re looking for a special thing, try the Jumbo Shrimp Brochette. It includes grilled bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with Monterey Jack cheese and jalapeño with dirty rice.
The bar at Pappadeaux is worth checking out too. They have dope signature cocktails, cold beers, and a sick wine list that even the most bougie wine drinkers approve of.
If you’re planning an event, Pappadeaux has got your back. They’ll hook you up with custom event designs and buffet service.
Make sure to visit Pappadeaux in the Jefferson Commons neighborhood of Albuquerque for a delightful seafood experience.
Down N Dirty Seafood Boil
Located in the Los Altos Shopping Center of Albuquerque, Down N Dirty has served its signature fusion-style seafood boil since 2014.
Their menu has many seafood options, like shrimp (with or without shells), snow crab claws, black mussels, green mussels, lobster tails, scallops, clams, and clams shell-less crawfish.
The restaurant has a roomy dining area, so you won’t feel cramped even when busy. And the seafood is always super fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. It’s seriously a seafood lover’s dream.
Down N Dirty will satisfy your cravings whether you’re in the mood for a seafood-style sandwich or the whole seafood boil experience.
Slapfish
Slapfish is an excellent spot to grub on tasty seafood in a chill, fast-casual setting. They currently operate in multiple locations across several states, including two locations in Albuquerque in Holly and Windrock Town Center.
The vibes are laid-back and welcoming, perfect for kicking back with friends or family. One thing that makes Slapfish stand out is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients in everything they make.
When you’re there, check out some of their standout dishes like fish tacos, shrimp rolls, shrimp salad, fish sandwiches, traditional lobster rolls, etc.
They’re also accommodating, offering catering services for intimate gatherings and events. And don’t worry if you’re a vegetarian; they have many options!
Crackin’ Crab Seafood Boil
If you’re looking for a delicious Cajun seafood boil in Albuquerque, Crackin’ Crab Seafood Boil is worth checking out!
Founded in 2015 by Rack & Vanh Mingkhamsavath, this restaurant has quickly expanded to multiple locations across New Mexico and Texas.
The menu at Crackin’ Crab Seafood Boil boasts a wide variety of seafood options, including headless shrimp, fried calamari, fried oysters, soft shell crab, snow crab legs, lobster tails, and many more.
Each dish is expertly seasoned and perfectly cooked, creating a satisfying dining experience. However, its exceptional hospitality sets Crackin’ Crab Seafood Boil apart.
As a family-friendly restaurant, they strive to make everyone feel welcome and create memorable experiences for their guests.
Red Lobster
Red Lobster, the largest and most cherished seafood restaurant chain in the world, prides itself on providing premium, freshly-made seafood that is sustainably sourced and responsibly procured.
To enhance your dining experience, Red Lobster offers priority seating to minimize your wait time, allowing you to indulge in activities you enjoy.
Red Lobster offers two convenient locations at Coors Bypass NW and Montgomery Blvd NE in Albuquerque.
The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, featuring signature dishes such as the Ultimate Feast, Seafood-stuffed Mushrooms, and Garlic Shrimp Scampi, and you can create your own combinations.
Additionally, they showcase seasonal flavors and preparations during festivals like Crabfest, Lobsterfest, and Endless Shrimp; check out their website to learn more.
Storming Crab
As a seafood chain that operates across multiple states, Storming Crab has a reputation for serving up some of the best seafood in Albuquerque.
Located at San Mateo Blvd NE, the restaurant has a casual, laid-back vibe with light wood walls covered in graffiti and tablecloths.
The menu focuses on Cajun-style seafood boils, and you can create your own combo by choosing two or more types of seafood and three sides. Each pound of seafood comes with a potato and corn.
They also offer a kids’ menu with fries, corn on the cob, and drinks. The service is top-notch, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or dinner with seafood, Storming Crab is a perfect spot in the area.
Pelican’s
Pelican’s restaurant has been a beloved local spot in Albuquerque since 1977, making it a four-decade tradition. With its nautical decor and fresh seafood, it feels like you’re dining right by the water.
Pelican’s is especially famous for their flown-in seafood, steaks & prime rib, and creative nightly specials from their talented chef.
The bar staff is knowledgeable and dedicated to providing excellent service, making for an elegant dining experience that anyone can enjoy.
Pelican’s accepts reservations, so give them a call and reserve your table for dinner Monday to Saturday, and they offer both lunch and dinner on Sunday.
Stop by one of the restaurant’s two convenient places and experience why locals voted Pelican’s one of the best seafood restaurants in Albuquerque four years in a row!
Sharky’s Fish & Shrimp
Sharky’s has an inviting outdoor covered patio with misters that gives off the vibe of a beach-side dive.
Located on Central Avenue SW, the restaurant is effortlessly accessible and has many parking options.
The food at Sharky’s is simply delicious, and everything tastes homemade. You won’t regret trying their fish or shrimp tacos, which come in two different sauces.
The restaurant has a small salsa bar, so you may customize your plate to suit your taste. Sharky’s is a great place to indulge in mouth-watering seafood dishes.
Poki Poki Cevicheria
If you’re looking for a restaurant that offers a unique blend of Asian-Latin fusion with seafood in Albuquerque, look no further than Poki Poki Cevicheria.
The restaurant is locally-owned and has two locations – one recently opened in Wyoming, and the other is in the bustling Central Avenue close to the University of New Mexico.
The food at Poki Poki Cevicheria is excellent, with a menu that includes fresh Hawaiian poke bowls, seafood, and cooked items such as steak, chicken, and carnitas tacos. Whatever your taste preferences, you’ll find something to enjoy.
Not only is the food top-notch, but the customer service is also excellent. Their bar with happy hour deals is perfect for relaxing or chatting with loved ones after a long day.
Mariscos Altamar
Mariscos Altamar is a famous Mexican seafood restaurant on Coors Boulevard Northwest in Albuquerque. The restaurant has been open since 1997 and specializes in serving authentic Mexican cuisine.
The restaurant features various seafood dishes, including flamed oysters, crab meat enchiladas, shrimp cocktails, shrimp ceviche many more.
One of the standout dishes Seafood Ceviche is the specialty plate, which features a delicious combination of shrimp, fish, octopus, and pico de gallo. The dish is served with warm, filling, and satisfying guacamole, tortillas, and rice.
Come on and find out why Mariscos Altamar is considered the best Mexican seafood restaurant in the city!
Seared Bistro
Are you looking for a traditional American bistro in Albuquerque? Seared is the spot for you! They’ve got a killer selection of seafood, red meat, and vegetation options.
If you’re into seafood, don’t miss out on their Salmon Crudo or Shrimp Cocktail. And if you’re a wine lover, you’re in luck – Seared has a vast selection.
The restaurant itself has a classic, cozy vibe thanks to the oak wood interior and friendly staff.
Whether you’re looking for a casual after-work hang or a business dinner, Seared has got you covered. In the heart of Albuquerque, visit Seared for an upscale dining experience; you can’t go wrong.
Crazy Fish
If you’re up for fusion seafood that mixes Japanese and South American flavors, visit Crazy Fish.
The menu is packed with various dishes, including appetizers, soups, salads, sushi rolls, and rice, all centered around fresh seafood.
Fresh Fish Salad, Seafood Noodle Soup, and Spicy Seafood Fried Rice are some of their top-notch dishes. Don’t forget to try their drinks and desserts to finish your meal.
Best of all, they take TO GO orders, provide gift certificates, and accept all leading credit cards.
You can find the spot at Central Avenue in Albuquerque, and the word is that they’re now under new management and open seven days a week.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Albuquerque is a seafood lover’s paradise, with many restaurants serving fresh and delicious dishes. Whether craving classic fish and chips or sushi, you will find a spot in this city to satiate your taste buds.
From the casual atmosphere of Slapfish to the upscale elegance of Pappadeaux, each restaurant on our list offers a unique dining experience that is sure to please.
So, check out the best seafood restaurants in Albuquerque mentioned above and prepare for a culinary adventure. We guarantee that these places will leave you wanting more and that you’ll plan your next visit before you finish your meal!
Note: Since all the information in this article is based on the date of publication, for some reason (health, economic, social), these businesses may be temporarily or permanently closed or moved to another location.
