Top 8 Seafood Spots in the Area

Living on the SouthCoast comes with some real perks—close-knit communities, beautiful waterfront views, and of course, some of the best seafood in New England. Whether you’re craving a lobster roll, fried clams, or a classic Portuguese-inspired dish, the SouthCoast has something for every seafood lover. Today, we’re taking a look at some of the top 8 seafood spots to check out across New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Fall River, and beyond.

1. The Black Whale – New Bedford

⭐ 4.5 / 5 (TripAdvisor)
A staple on the New Bedford waterfront, The Black Whale offers fresh, locally sourced seafood with a modern twist. From oysters and tuna poke to their famous lobster rolls, it’s the kind of place you can bring friends, family, or clients and know you’ll have a great experience. Tripadvisor

2. Turk’s Seafood – Mattapoisett

⭐ 4.5 / 5 (Yelp)
If you haven’t been to Turk’s, you’re missing out on a true local gem. Known for its sushi-grade fish and traditional New England seafood dishes, Turk’s is a go-to for both casual nights out and special occasions. Yelp

3. Gene’s Famous Seafood – Fairhaven

⭐ 4.5 / 5 (Yelp)
This Fairhaven staple is exactly what you picture when you think “clam shack.” From fried clams and scallops to fish & chips, Gene’s has been serving simple, delicious seafood to locals for decades. It’s the perfect laid-back spot for a classic SouthCoast seafood experience. Yelp

4. Cove Surf and Turf – New Bedford

⭐ 4.2 / 5 (Yelp)
With a menu that balances both seafood and land-lover favorites, Cove Surf and Turf is great for families. Their lobster mac & cheese and fried seafood platters are local favorites. Yelp

5. The Lobster Trap – Bourne

⭐ 4.5 / 5 (TripAdvisor)
A short drive but well worth it, The Lobster Trap delivers casual waterfront dining with a focus on fresh seafood. Their lobster rolls, fried clams, and daily catches make it a must-visit spot for anyone in the SouthCoast region. Tripadvisor

6. Bocca – Fairhaven

⭐ 4.5 / 5 (Yelp)
While known for Italian cuisine, Bocca excels at seafood dishes too. From linguine with clams to shrimp scampi, this local favorite combines comfort food with classic SouthCoast flavors. Yelp

7. Antonio’s – New Bedford

⭐ 4.5 / 5 (Yelp)
Seafood lovers who also enjoy Portuguese cuisine will feel right at home at Antonio’s. Their stuffed quahogs, shrimp Mozambique, and codfish dishes highlight the rich Portuguese influence on SouthCoast seafood culture. Yelp

8. Cisco Brewers Kitchen & Bar – New Bedford

⭐ 4.0 / 5 (Yelp)
If you’re looking for great seafood with an even better atmosphere, Cisco Brewers Kitchen & Bar is the place to be. Right on the waterfront, Cisco offers everything from lobster rolls to raw bar selections, paired perfectly with local brews and cocktails. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Yelp

Why It Matters

One of the best parts about living on the SouthCoast is that incredible seafood is never far away. From casual clam shacks to waterfront dining, there’s something for everyone—and it’s all part of the lifestyle that makes this area so special.

If you’re thinking about buying a home here, the food scene is just one more reason to love calling the SouthCoast home.