Best Seafood in Ballard, Seattle: Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss
Best Seafood in Ballard, Seattle: Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss
Nestled in the heart of Seattle, Ballard’s seafood scene is a treasure trove of maritime flavors and sustainable eats. From intimate oyster bars to waterfront classics, this guide uncovers the best seafood in Ballard, Seattle, that locals swear by and visitors can’t stop raving about.
Click on the place names below to open their locations in Google Maps.
| Place | Rating | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | ⭐ 4.5/5 | Award-nominated oyster bar with unbeatable happy hour deals. |
| Ray’s Boathouse | ⭐ 4.5/5 | Waterfront dining with stunning Olympic Mountain views. |
| Ballard Brothers Seafood and Burgers | ⭐ 4.3/5 | Unique fish tacos blending Mexican flair with classic seafood. |
| Lockspot Cafe | ⭐ 4.2/5 | Hearty fish and chips right by the historic Ballard Locks. |
| Barnacle | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Tiny bar with creative cocktails and standout seafood bites. |
| Sugo Hand Roll Bar | ⭐ 4.4/5 | Ultra-fresh customizable hand rolls with sustainable fish. |
Dive Into Ballard’s Seafood Scene
The Walrus and the Carpenter ⭐ 4.5/5
Intimate oyster bar with French-inspired small plates and a chic, rustic ambiance. Known for its James Beard Award nomination, it’s a go-to for happy hour oysters and unique dishes like grilled sardines with walnut gremolata.
💡 Local Tip: Visit during happy hour for discounted oysters.
🎵 Atmosphere: Chic French beach town vibe with marble counters and antler chandeliers
A favorite for impeccably executed small plates and oysters during happy hour.
Note: Limited seating and no reservations (pre-pandemic) can mean a wait.
Ray’s Boathouse ⭐ 4.5/5
Iconic waterfront restaurant with Pacific Northwest seafood and Olympic Mountain views. Savor wild-caught halibut and sustainable seafood, with deck seating for an unforgettable experience.
💡 Local Tip: Try the casual upstairs café for a more affordable option.
🎵 Atmosphere: Upscale yet relaxed with nautical themes
Great view, great food, and perfectly prepared wild salmon.
Note: Requires reservations, so plan ahead.
Ballard Brothers Seafood and Burgers ⭐ 4.3/5
Long-standing casual spot blending Mexican flavors with classic seafood. It’s loved for quick service, affordability, and standout fish tacos that offer a unique twist.
🎵 Atmosphere: Laid-back family-friendly diner
One of the oldest restaurants in Ballard with consistently yum food.
Note: Limited seating may require a wait during peak times.
Lockspot Cafe ⭐ 4.2/5
Quirky pub near the Ballard Locks serving hearty fish and chips. A historic location with generous portions makes it a cherished local favorite.
💡 Local Tip: Right at the Ballard Locks—visit after watching boats transition.
🎵 Atmosphere: Rustic pub with maritime memorabilia
A family favorite for no-fuss seafood near the locks.
Note: Basic ambiance might not suit those seeking upscale vibes.
Barnacle ⭐ 4.6/5
Tiny bar adjacent to The Walrus and the Carpenter, offering seafood small plates. Its creative cocktails, intimate setting, and marinated mussels are perfect for a cozy night out.
💡 Local Tip: Ideal for pre-dinner drinks and snacks.
🎵 Atmosphere: Moody, candlelit bar
Unique place in Ballard with excellent small bites.
Note: Very limited seating means you’ll need to arrive early.
Sugo Hand Roll Bar ⭐ 4.4/5
Japanese-inspired hand roll spot focusing on ultra-fresh seafood. With customizable rolls, quick service, and sustainably sourced fish, it’s a modern take on sushi.
💡 Local Tip: Try the chef’s omakase selection.
🎵 Atmosphere: Modern and minimalist
One of the best poke places in Ballard!
Note: Limited menu might not cater to all tastes.
Explore Ballard’s Maritime Flavors
Whether you’re craving fresh oysters or waterfront views, Ballard’s seafood spots have something for everyone. Dive into these local gems and let us know which one becomes your favorite!
Images courtesy of Google Maps and respective businesses.
