Best Seafood Cities in the World

Comparing the best seafood cities in the World is a must for travelers like us; whether it is checking out the best seafood restaurants in Bangkok or exploring the Tokyo fish market. We share some top seafood destinations, for those that travel for food too.

If you’re a seafood lover, there’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly caught fish. When travelling, finding the best spots to enjoy top-notch fish dishes can elevate your experience.

Plus, saving money on travel essentials leaves more in your budget for indulging in delicious seafood. Consider picking up a voucher from The Fish Society Discount Code at Latest Deals—your wallet will thank you later, alongside your appetite.

Best Seafood Cities in the World

Tokyo, Japan

With its location right on the Pacific Ocean’s rim, Tokyo prides itself as one of the world’s fish capitals. This vibrant city blends antiquity with ultramodern gastronomic experiences, making it a fantastic place where one can catch a glimpse of the setting sun against the stunning Mount Fuji and savor the most divine fish dishes.

• Experience Sushi Heaven: It’s hard to discuss the best food in Tokyo without mentioning its role in the global sushi scene. Considered by many to be the holy grail of sushi, Tokyo offers an abundance of sushi options ranging from street vendors to high-end restaurants. Visit the Tsukiji Outer Market and the Toyosu Market, famous for their fresh produce and tantalizing sushi dishes but also a must on many Tokyo itineraries. Here, the exceptional flesh of tuna, salmon, and other delectable species melts in your mouth—proof of its absolute freshness.

• Traditional Izakayas: You might also want to visit one of the traditional izakayas—Japanese pubs—scattered across the city. These laid-back spots are where Tokyo residents unwind after work, enjoy sumptuous food, and sip artisanal sake. Known for being masters of tempura and grilled fish, the izakayas in Tokyo take pride in serving the freshest meals. The oishii (delicious) tempura is crispy, while the succulent grilled fish, seasoned to perfection, can make anyone’s taste buds dance in delight.

Whether experiencing the flurry of activity in a sushi bar or enjoying the mellow atmosphere of an izakaya, there’s no doubt that the fresh fish served in Tokyo is an absolute culinary delight. Get your chopsticks ready for a gastronomic adventure that Tokyo, with its focus on tradition, freshness, and flavor, promises to deliver!

Lisbon, Portugal

Nestled on the westernmost frontier of Europe, Lisbon thrives on the fresh bounty of the Atlantic. As an indisputable seafood city, the Portuguese capital serves up its succulent ocean harvest with a mix of flair and tradition that beckons seafood enthusiasts from around the globe.

Atlantic flavor: The nearby Atlantic Ocean provides a constant supply of fresh seafood for Lisbon. Its culinary rewards echo in the lively halls of Time Out Market, where a diverse range of fish dishes garners the attention of every palate. For a more intimate seafood experience, make your way to the historic Baixa district. With its narrow, charming streets lined with family-run tascas (taverns), you can dive into Lisbon’s maritime heritage with every bite.

Bacalhau Wonderland: Lisbon wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the near-obsession that Portugal has with codfish, or bacalhau. It has often been said there are as many Portuguese cod recipes as days in the year, or even more. Lisbon takes honor in showcasing this diversity of cod preparations – from the robustly flavored Bacalhau à Brás, mingled with crispy potatoes and onions, to the comfort-infusing codfish cakes. The ubiquity of these recipes means you’re never far from a delightful codfish experience in Lisbon.

Venturing around Lisbon promises seafood lovers a gastronomic journey like no other. With its incredible food and distinctive culture steeped in centuries-old seafaring tradition, Lisbon’s fresh fish offering generously displays its rich, ocean-kissed heritage at every turn.

Sydney, Australia

Whether you fancy fresh Pacific oysters or want to feast on local flathead, Sydney invites you to a seafood experience like no other.

• Harbour-side dining: Sydney Harbour is a sight for sore eyes and an avenue for sore bellies. With seafood restaurants offering a mix of the traditional and the contemporary, you can taste the freshest selections from the southern Pacific. The renowned Sydney Fish Market, for example, is a must-visit for any fish lover, boasting Australia’s largest assortment of seafood. Be sure to also check out Darling Harbour and Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo, other hubs for delectable seafood. For a more laidback environment, Bondi Beach brings both the surf and the turf right to your plate, literally a stone’s throw from the ocean.

• Cultural blend: Sydney’s diverse culinary scene makes it one of the world’s top food capitals, and its seafood cuisine is no exception. Owing to its multicultural heritage and proximity to Asia, you can enjoy a hearty pan-Asian seafood banquet one night and partake in a traditional Aussie fish and chips the next. Local delicacies range from the celestial barramundi and king prawns to various kinds of succulent shellfish. For something uniquely Australian, try the Moreton Bay Bug, a type of slipper lobster renowned for its tender texture and sweet, rich flavor.

The saying goes that there’s plenty of fish in the sea, but there’s just as many ways to enjoy them in Sydney, where you can surely find your ‘plaice’ in the sun. Plus, there are plenty of ways you can visit Sydney on a budget, by sticking to those small, local cafes and street vendors.

Barcelona, Spain: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise

In the heart of Catalonia, Barcelona is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers. Here’s why:

Tapas Culture

Barcelona’s geographical location near the sea provides a steady supply of fresh, high-quality marine produce, making it a paradise for any fish enthusiast. One of the best ways to experience this bounty is through the city’s vibrant tapas culture.

• Variety of Tapas:
  • Gambas al ajillo (shrimps with garlic)
  • Chipirones (baby squids)
  • Mejillones al vapor (steamed mussels)
• Popular Spots:
  • La Barceloneta: A lively neighborhood where tapas bars like Jai-Ca serve some of the best seafood tapas in town.

Paella: A Catalan Delicacy

A Barcelona food guide is a must; it is one of best cities to savor authentic Spanish seafood rice dishes, especially paella.

• Recommended Restaurants:
  • La Mar Salada
  • Can Solé

Both serve paellas beautifully layered with flavors from the broth, sofrito, and a variety of seafood.

More Seafood Delights

Beyond tapas and paella, Barcelona offers a multitude of seafood restaurants ready to serve other marine delights.

• Whether you’re craving:
  • Oysters
  • Clams
  • Lobsters
  • Grilled fish

The seafood scene is as dynamic and rich as the city itself and needs to find a space on your Barcelona bucket list.

Seattle, USA

As diverse in culture as it is in cuisine, Seattle proves to be a treasure trove for seafood aficionados. Sitting by the breathtaking Puget Sound, it’s a city that prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. Here, fresh fish isn’t a luxury—it’s a way of life.

• Local and sustainable: Seattle’s philosophy of serving locally sourced seafood means you’ll enjoy not only exceptionally fresh catches, but also produce that’s responsibly harvested. Pike Place Chowder, for example, serves up award-winning seafood dishes, with Pacific salmon, Dungeness crab, and Alaskan halibut being crowd favorites. For a refined delight, try the King Salmon at Palisade, where the smoky flavors of the fish are enhanced by a panoramic view of the marina and downtown skyline.

• Pike Place Market: A trip to Seattle is incomplete without a visit to the iconic Pike Place Market. Nestled in the heart of the city, this bustling market is a paradise for foodies. Take in the spectacle of fishmongers tossing their newest catches, then treat your taste buds to some of the freshest seafood around, all while soaking up the market’s vibrant atmosphere. From the legendary clam chowder at Pike Place Chowder to the varied selection at City Fish Co., you can have your pick from a smorgasbord of seafood delights. The market is also a fantastic place to purchase fresh-caught fare to cook in your holiday apartment. Just remember to keep it chilled if you’re planning a day of sightseeing afterwards!

There you have it—one more reason to make Seattle your next destination. Experience the raw, authentic flavors of its local seafood while immersing yourself in a city where culinary tradition meets urban innovation. Seattle embodies the best that the Pacific Northwest has to offer, and fish lovers will find themselves in good company here.

Reykjavik, Iceland

When it comes to seafood, Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a paradise for aficionados who aren’t afraid to brave colder climates in their quest for fresh fish. From traditional seafaring fare to chic, contemporary dining experiences, Reykjavik has a trip for every fish appetite.

• Unique Nordic Delicacies: The coastal city provides seafood lovers with an opportunity to experience some unique Nordic treats. Engage your taste buds with plokkfiskur, a hearty fish stew, and melt-in-your-mouth, freshly caught Arctic char. For the more adventurous souls, hákarl, or fermented shark, is a must-try.
• Local Fish Stalls: Down at Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, you’ll find numerous harborside stalls offering catches so fresh they might as well have just leapt out of the ocean and onto your plate. Make a stop at Saegreifinn, a local hotspot renowned for its delicious lobster soup. The Harbor also offers fish tasting tours where you can sample a range of Nordic seafood delights. These tours are not only an adventure for your taste buds but also provide a first-hand experience of the local fish culture.

Approved by natives and global travelers alike, Reykjavik is a must-see destination for fish lovers who want to experience authentic and unique seafood that you won’t easily find elsewhere—a city where traditional seafood blends seamlessly with contemporary, gourmet twists.

Smart spending doesn’t mean cutting corners on taste or quality. With a bit of planning and a keen eye for discounts and local fares, you can indulge in the best fish dishes around the world without breaking the bank. Bon Appétit!