Boston is renowned for its oceangoing fare. Find out why at one of these eateries specializing in the fruits of the sea
Jasper White’s Summer Shack
Boasting locations in both the Back Bay and Cambridge’s Alewife area, this tribute to the fish shanties that dot the region’s coast offers plenty of fresh oysters, an authentic clambake and its signature dish, the pan-roasted lobster (pictured).
50 Dalton St., 617-867-9955; 149 Alewife Brook Parkway, Cambridge, 617-520-9500; summershackrestaurant.com
Saltie Girl
Imported tinned fish and inventive dishes like fried lobster & waffles are the attraction at this cozy Back Bay eatery.
281 Dartmouth St., 617-267-0691, saltiegirl.com
Select Oyster Bar
Another acclaimed Back Bay seafood restaurant is chef/owner Michael Serpa’s internationally influenced hot spot.
50 Gloucester St., 857-239-8064, selectboston.com
Ye Olde Union Oyster House
You don’t get to be the oldest restaurant in the country by accident. This local seafood staple offers a taste of history along with steamers, broiled scrod and fried clams right on the Freedom Trail.
41 Union St., 617-227-2750, unionoysterhouse.com
Legal Sea Foods
Award-winning chowder, super-fresh raw bar items, an inviting atmosphere and a mix of the classic with the cutting edge have made the many outposts in this dining empire top destinations for seafood lovers for decades.
Various locations, legalseafoods.com
B&G Oysters
A leisurely vibe and chef Barbara Lynch’s innovative dishes make this South End staple a top table.
550 Tremont St., 617-423-0550, bandgoysters.com
Atlantic Fish Company
Featuring only the freshest catch of the day, this Back Bay mainstay has impressed since 1978.
761 Boylston St., 617-267-4000, atlanticfish.com
Island Creek Oyster Bar
This hip, modern hangout in Kenmore Square takes traditional oceanic fare to the next level.
500 Commonwealth Ave., 617-532-5300, islandcreekoysterbar.com
Shaking Crab
This down-home joint adds a healthy dose of Cajun flair to the local seafood scene, offering crawfish, crab, shrimp, lobster and more, all boiled and shaken in a bag with butter, garlic and savory spices.
140 Boylston St., 617-936-3162; 1815 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 857-259-6147; shakingcrab.com
Porto
Chef Jody Adams’ take on Mediterranean seafood has made this Back Bay standout one of the most celebrated restaurants in the city since its 2016 debut.
1 Ring Road, 617-536-1234, porto-boston.com
