Once, fresh seafood was only accessible to coastal dwellers, but now, quality seafood chains span the nation, even reaching the Midwest. These chains may not all be ubiquitous like Red Lobster, but several are worth seeking out. We’ve tasted and ranked 16 popular national seafood chains, tailoring our list based on the different types of fish one might crave. Here are the rankings, from worst to best.
From Long John Silver’s anchoring the bottom spot to the distinguished flavors of Bonefish Grill, there’s a wide spectrum of quality. General seafood giants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Joe’s Crab Shack hold their own mid-range positions. Meanwhile, upscale dining experiences at restaurants like Ocean Prime and Eddie V’s Prime Seafood offer impeccable dining experiences. Each restaurant brings something unique to the table, making the journey through these chains an intriguing culinary adventure.
Some notable mentions include Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen, offering a budget-friendly but satisfying meal, and Legal Sea Foods, known for its consistent quality. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen and Bonefish Grill round out the top tier, known for their excellent variety and flavor-rich dishes. The accessibility of great seafood nationwide highlights how seafood chains have evolved, bringing coastal delicacies to far-reaching locations.
