If you are looking for the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, you are in the right place. Whether you are craving freshly shucked oysters, grilled sea bass, seafood paella, lobster, scallops or classic fish dishes, Southampton has an excellent selection of restaurants serving some of the freshest seafood on the South Coast.
This guide features the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, from luxury waterfront restaurants and independent Mediterranean bistros to relaxed marina dining and traditional seafood specialists. Every restaurant included has earned a strong reputation for quality food, friendly service and consistently positive customer reviews.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is based on extensive research across public reviews, local recommendations and the overall reputation of each restaurant. Rather than relying on a single opinion, I looked for places that consistently receive positive feedback for their food quality, service, atmosphere and value for money.
When choosing the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, I considered:
- Food quality – Fresh seafood, expertly prepared dishes and consistently high cooking standards.
- Atmosphere – Whether the restaurant provides a welcoming setting for casual meals, celebrations or waterfront dining.
- Service – Friendly, attentive staff and consistently positive customer experiences.
- Value for money – The overall dining experience compared with the price.
- Overall reputation – Consistently positive customer feedback across multiple trusted review platforms.
No restaurant has paid to be included in this guide.
10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Southampton
Whether you are looking for luxury seafood restaurants, fresh fish, Mediterranean seafood dishes or relaxed waterfront dining, these are the seafood restaurants in Southampton that are worth visiting. Click on any restaurant name below for directions on Google Maps.
1. Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails, Herbert Walker Avenue
Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails is one of the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, offering a stylish waterfront dining experience beside the historic Dock Gate 8. Located inside voco Southampton, the restaurant specialises in fresh seafood, expertly crafted cocktails and elegant surroundings, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or pre-cruise dining.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
5.0/5.0
Location: Herbert Walker Avenue
Price: Premium (£25 to £45 per person)
Best for: Modern seafood dining
Must try: Seared Scallops
Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails combines beautifully presented seafood, attentive service and an elegant setting, making it one of Southampton’s standout seafood restaurants.
Why Visit Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails?
Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails serves a menu centred around fresh seafood, including seared scallops, grilled lemon sole, king prawns and seasonal fish dishes, alongside expertly mixed cocktails and an extensive wine list. The stylish interior and waterside location create an excellent setting for both relaxed meals and celebrations.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Seared Scallops are one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent choice before or after a cruise.
- Pair your meal with one of the house cocktails.
- Request a terrace table when the weather is good.
- Booking is recommended, especially at weekends.
2. The Jetty, Ocean Village
The Jetty is one of the finest seafood restaurants in Southampton, offering refined waterside dining inside the Harbour Hotel at Ocean Village. With its focus on locally sourced seafood, seasonal ingredients and exceptional presentation, it is a favourite for special occasions and fine dining.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
5.0/5.0
Location: Ocean Village
Price: Premium (£40+ per person)
Best for: Luxury seafood dining
Must try: Seasonal Tasting Menu
The Jetty delivers outstanding seafood, impeccable presentation and beautiful marina views, making it one of the most memorable dining experiences in Southampton.
Why Visit The Jetty?
The Jetty showcases the very best of British seafood with a menu built around seasonal fish, shellfish and locally sourced ingredients. Combined with panoramic marina views and polished service, it is one of Southampton’s top destinations for fine dining.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Choose the tasting menu for the full experience.
- Request a marina-view table if available.
- Excellent wine pairing options.
- Ideal for celebrations and anniversaries.
- Book well in advance for weekend evenings.
3. La Regata, Town Quay
La Regata is one of the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, bringing authentic Spanish flavours to Town Quay. This long-established independent restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood, traditional tapas and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favourite for anyone who enjoys Mediterranean cuisine.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Town Quay
Price: Mid-range (£20 to £35 per person)
Best for: Spanish seafood and tapas
Must try: Seafood Paella
La Regata combines authentic Spanish cooking with fresh seafood and warm hospitality, making it one of Southampton’s top destinations for Mediterranean seafood.
Why Visit La Regata?
La Regata serves a menu packed with Spanish seafood favourites, including seafood paella, garlic king prawns, calamari, mussels and traditional tapas. Fresh ingredients and authentic recipes create a genuine taste of Spain just a short walk from Southampton’s waterfront.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Seafood Paella is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Order a selection of tapas to share.
- Fresh garlic king prawns are highly recommended.
- Excellent choice for group dining.
- Booking is recommended on Friday and Saturday evenings.
4. The Olive Tree, Oxford Street
The Olive Tree is one of the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, offering Mediterranean-inspired dining in the heart of Oxford Street. Well known for its fresh fish specials, seafood pasta and relaxed atmosphere, it is an excellent choice for both casual lunches and evening meals.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.8/5.0
Location: Oxford Street
Price: Mid-range (£18 to £35 per person)
Best for: Seafood pasta and fresh fish
Must try: Seafood Linguine
The Olive Tree consistently delivers fresh seafood, Mediterranean flavours and attentive service, making it one of Oxford Street’s most popular independent restaurants.
Why Visit The Olive Tree?
The Olive Tree serves beautifully prepared seafood dishes including seafood linguine, grilled fish, mussels and seasonal daily specials. Combined with its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor terrace, it is an ideal place to enjoy fresh seafood in Southampton.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Seafood Linguine is one of the most popular dishes.
- Ask about the daily fish specials.
- Outdoor terrace available during warmer months.
- Excellent Mediterranean wine selection.
- Perfect for relaxed evening dining.
Why Southampton is Great for Seafood
Thanks to its coastal location, Southampton has an outstanding choice of seafood restaurants serving everything from freshly landed local fish to Mediterranean seafood, shellfish and fine dining tasting menus. Whether you are looking for a luxury waterfront experience or a relaxed independent restaurant, there is something to suit every occasion.
5. Moura’s, Bedford Place
Moura’s is one of the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, bringing authentic Portuguese seafood to Bedford Place. This independent family-run restaurant is well known for its fresh fish, traditional Portuguese recipes and warm hospitality, making it an excellent choice if you are looking for authentic seafood away from the waterfront.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Bedford Place
Price: Mid-range (£18 to £30 per person)
Best for: Portuguese seafood
Must try: Grilled Sea Bass
Moura’s combines authentic Portuguese cooking with fresh seafood and generous portions, making it one of Southampton’s best places to enjoy traditional seafood dishes.
Why Visit Moura’s?
Moura’s specialises in traditional Portuguese seafood, serving grilled sea bass, bacalhau, seafood rice dishes and fresh fish cooked using authentic family recipes. Friendly service and consistently high-quality food have made it one of Southampton’s most respected independent restaurants.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Grilled Sea Bass is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Try the traditional bacalhau if available.
- Excellent Portuguese wine selection.
- Ideal for relaxed evening dining.
- Booking is recommended at weekends.
6. Soleto Bistro, Commercial Road
Soleto Bistro is one of the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, offering Mediterranean-inspired dining just opposite the Mayflower Theatre. This independent restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood, homemade pasta and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice before theatre performances.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Commercial Road
Price: Mid-range (£20 to £35 per person)
Best for: Seafood pasta
Must try: Lobster Ravioli
Soleto Bistro delivers beautifully prepared seafood dishes, homemade pasta and excellent service, making it one of Southampton’s top independent seafood restaurants.
Why Visit Soleto Bistro?
Soleto Bistro serves fresh seafood alongside Italian and Mediterranean classics, including lobster ravioli, scallops, seafood pasta and daily fish specials. Its convenient location opposite the Mayflower Theatre also makes it one of the city’s best pre-theatre dining destinations.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Lobster Ravioli is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent choice before a theatre show.
- Ask about the fresh fish specials.
- Friendly independent restaurant.
- Booking is recommended on performance nights.
7. Figurati, Ocean Village
Figurati is one of the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, offering modern Italian dining right on the waterfront at Ocean Village. Combining fresh seafood, homemade pasta and elegant surroundings, it has become one of the city’s top destinations for Mediterranean seafood and special occasions.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Ocean Village
Price: Mid-range (£20 to £35 per person)
Best for: Italian seafood dishes
Must try: Lobster Ravioli
Figurati combines authentic Italian cooking, fresh seafood and beautiful marina views, making it one of the best places in Southampton for Mediterranean-inspired seafood.
Why Visit Figurati?
Figurati serves fresh seafood alongside handmade pasta, including lobster ravioli, pan-seared cod, king prawns and seasonal fish specials. Its stylish marina setting, attentive service and quality ingredients make it an excellent choice for date nights, celebrations and relaxed waterfront dining.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Lobster Ravioli is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Enjoy views across Ocean Village Marina.
- Excellent choice for celebrations and date nights.
- Fresh seafood and homemade pasta.
- Booking is recommended during busy evenings.
8. Max’s Brasserie, High Street
Max’s Brasserie is a long-established independent restaurant on High Street that serves a varied menu featuring fresh seafood alongside classic European dishes. Its relaxed atmosphere and consistently high-quality cooking have made it a favourite with Southampton diners for many years.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: High Street
Price: Mid-range (£18 to £35 per person)
Best for: Classic seafood dishes
Must try: Pan-Fried Sea Bass
Max’s Brasserie delivers fresh seafood, classic European cooking and friendly service, making it one of Southampton’s most reliable independent restaurants.
Why Visit Max’s Brasserie?
Max’s Brasserie offers a selection of fresh fish, shellfish and seafood specials alongside seasonal European favourites. Its welcoming atmosphere and central location make it suitable for both casual lunches and evening meals.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Pan-Fried Sea Bass is a customer favourite.
- Ask about the daily seafood specials.
- Friendly independent restaurant.
- Ideal for relaxed dining.
- Excellent city centre location.
9. Banana Wharf, Ocean Village
Banana Wharf is one of the best seafood restaurants in Southampton, offering waterfront dining with panoramic marina views at Ocean Village. Its varied menu features fresh seafood alongside modern British and Mediterranean dishes, making it a popular choice for relaxed lunches, evening meals and special occasions.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: Ocean Village
Price: Mid-range (£18 to £35 per person)
Best for: Waterfront seafood dining
Must try: Seafood Risotto
Banana Wharf combines fresh seafood, marina views and a relaxed atmosphere, making it one of Southampton’s most popular waterfront restaurants.
Why Visit Banana Wharf?
Banana Wharf serves a selection of seafood dishes including seafood risotto, grilled fish, king prawns and seasonal specials, alongside an extensive drinks menu. Its spacious terrace overlooking Ocean Village Marina makes it one of the city’s best places for outdoor dining.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Seafood Risotto is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
- Request a marina-view table if possible.
- Excellent choice for sunset dining.
- Great selection of cocktails and wines.
- Booking is recommended during summer weekends.
10. COSMO, Westquay
COSMO is one of the most popular seafood restaurants in Southampton for diners who enjoy variety. Located inside Westquay, this international buffet restaurant offers an extensive seafood selection alongside cuisines from around the world, making it ideal for families and larger groups.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.4/5.0
Location: Westquay
Price: Mid-range (£20 to £35 per person)
Best for: Seafood buffet
Must try: Fresh Seafood Selection
COSMO offers one of Southampton’s widest seafood selections, making it an excellent choice for diners who want to sample a variety of freshly prepared seafood dishes in one visit.
Why Visit COSMO?
COSMO features a wide buffet selection including prawns, mussels, fish dishes, sushi and international seafood specialities. Its all-you-can-eat format makes it ideal for families, celebrations and groups with different tastes.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Visit earlier in the evening for the fullest buffet selection.
- Try seafood from multiple cuisine stations.
- Great choice for families and groups.
- Excellent value if you enjoy variety.
- Book ahead during weekends and school holidays.
Which Seafood Restaurant in Southampton Should You Choose?
If you are still deciding where to eat, the best seafood restaurant in Southampton depends on the dining experience you are looking for.
For the best overall seafood experience, Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails is our top recommendation thanks to its elegant setting, expertly prepared seafood and excellent service. If you are looking for fine dining, The Jetty offers one of the city’s most refined seafood experiences.
For Mediterranean seafood, La Regata, The Olive Tree, Moura’s, Soleto Bistro and Figurati all serve outstanding fish and shellfish dishes, while Banana Wharf is ideal for relaxed waterfront dining. If you prefer variety, COSMO offers one of Southampton’s largest seafood buffets.
Whether you are craving fresh oysters, seafood pasta, grilled fish or a luxury waterfront meal, these restaurants offer some of the very best seafood in Southampton.
Love Fresh Fish?
If you enjoy seafood, you may also like our guide to the best restaurants in Southampton, featuring many of the city’s top independent restaurants and fine dining destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best seafood restaurant in Southampton?
Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails is our top recommendation thanks to its premium seafood menu, stylish waterfront setting and consistently excellent customer reviews. The Jetty is another outstanding choice for fine dining and special occasions.
Where can I find fresh seafood in Southampton?
Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails, The Jetty, La Regata, The Olive Tree and Soleto Bistro all serve freshly prepared seafood using quality seasonal ingredients.
Which seafood restaurant is best for waterfront dining?
Banana Wharf, The Jetty and Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails all offer excellent waterfront locations, making them ideal if you want seafood with marina or dockside views.
Where can I get seafood paella in Southampton?
La Regata is one of the best places in Southampton for authentic Spanish seafood paella, alongside a wide selection of traditional tapas and fresh seafood dishes.
Which seafood restaurant is best for seafood pasta?
Soleto Bistro, Figurati and The Olive Tree are excellent choices for fresh seafood pasta, including lobster ravioli, seafood linguine and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Should I book a seafood restaurant in Southampton?
Booking is recommended for popular restaurants such as Atlantic Gate Seafood & Cocktails, The Jetty, La Regata and Banana Wharf, especially on weekends and during the summer months.
