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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown LA

Cool seafood spots

Seafood that feels modern and relevant rather than stuck in a tired, nautical-themed past.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 2
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 3
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Sleek design and minimalistic branding create an upscale and inviting atmosphere with perfect lighting and beautiful wall art. Spacious interior suits families, large parties, or intimate dinners with a calm, non-flashy vibe. Sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls stand out alongside fusion dishes and quality grill options.

Fish arrives with flawless freshness and clean, sweet flavors. Hand rolls feature premium cuts wrapped in crisp nori, showing clear precision and care.

The space has a cool, relaxed vibe with stylish decor that suits sushi lovers. It delivers a high-quality, satisfying meal in a setting that feels fresh and inviting.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy rice at this Lunch Spot; it's perfectly crunchy."

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and clean."

"The hand rolls here are so cool, with crisp seaweed and fresh fish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00-6:30pm with special menu items.

2

Parking is free for two hours with validation from the restaurant.

3

Validated parking is available on E 3rd St and Aliso parking.

02
SORA Craft Kitchen image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open kitchen reveals live cooking action with a chef's one-man show creating an intimate atmosphere. Space holds just 16 seats, blending minimal modern design with cozy, handcrafted details. Warm, inviting vibe pairs with flavorful Mediterranean dishes, making the experience personal and memorable.

Shrimp dishes stand out with Tarhana Butter Shrimp glazed in butter infused with tarhana and lemon, creating a rich, unique flavor. Branzino fish offers a super yummy option alongside grilled fish and other seafood choices.

The space feels cool and clean with a vibrant atmosphere that stands out in the cuisine scene.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"Chef Okay's passion makes the Seafood sing with skill and heart."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and charming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

There is plenty of metered parking available near the restaurant.

3

The chef personally prepares all dishes, showcasing unique culinary skills.

03
Guzzu Bento-ya image 1
Restaurant

Spacious, modern interior combines Japanese retro pop music, anime projections, and local artwork for a cozy, welcoming vibe. Calm atmosphere suits peaceful meals, casual catch-ups, and board games. Unique blend of warehouse setting and intentional design creates a hidden gem feel.

Fish dishes feature tender and flavorful meat with a savory umami taste that is not overpowering. The fish stays moist and avoids dryness.

Effortlessly cool vibe fills the space, with staff who are consistently nice and cool. Prices feel like a steal for the premium quality offered.

People are saying

"The Japanese food's presentation is amazing and the sides are just as good."

"The seafood here is buttery, crispy, and melts in your mouth."

"The salmon here is juicy perfection, melting in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Street parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

2

The food is made to order, ensuring freshness.

3

The online ordering system is seamless and very convenient.

04
รœCA image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers stunning city skyline views and a relaxed but lively atmosphere with live music enhancing the vibe. The space features a pool area and a bar with creative agave-based cocktails. Lighting is dim, creating a cozy mood but sometimes making menus hard to read.

Seafood and Latin-inspired dishes stand out here. The tacos gobernador feature shrimp with melted cheese, and the Torta burger adds to the seafood variety.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing city views from up high."

"The rooftop views are really cool, especially from the heart of DTLA."

"The Seafood here has an excellent view and stylish, relaxed atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Jazz night happens every Thursday with live performances starting at 8pm.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for Thursday jazz nights.

3

Parking is available at the Delphi hotel, which may validate valet parking.

05
Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen - DTLA image 1

Spacious coffee shop with chic decor and beautiful Black art on the walls creates a cool, hip vibe. R&B music plays, setting a chill atmosphere ideal for meetings, work, or casual catch-ups. Eclectic seating accommodates various group sizes, enhancing its inviting and professional feel.

Fried fish sandwich stands out as a filling and delicious option. The shrimp and grits offer a rich, satisfying dish that pairs well with sides like tater tots.

Cool vibes fill the space with a hip atmosphere and great ambience. It works well for a quick meeting or a simple date, making it a nice spot to enjoy a drink.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and insanely tasty."

"This place has a cool vibe and great ambience."

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp and grits, is well worth it."

Good to know

1

Weekend events are hosted regularly, check the schedule for details.

2

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Expect a 5% service fee added to your bill without prior notice.

06
Chubby Cattle BBQ | Little Tokyo image 1

Compact space balances spacious seating with a modern Yakiniku vibe and steampunk decor. Atmosphere stays fun and energetic without overwhelming noise or smoke. Self-serve unlimited drinks and ice cream add a unique touch to the lively dining experience.

Seafood comes very fresh with soft, tender textures and melt-in-my-mouth quality. Shrimp can be peeled at the table when it's not busy, adding to the relaxed experience.

Knowledgeable and friendly service stands out, especially from servers like Troy. The atmosphere feels comforting and cool, paired with great food and attentive service.

People are saying

"I loved the melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu quality here."

"The seafood here is great, and the service is attentive."

"The food here is amazing and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, particularly for dinner.

3

There's a pay-to-park lot right next door for $15.

07
Sonoritas - DTLA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a shaded outdoor patio and long tables for groups offers a relaxing atmosphere with reggaeton music creating good vibes. The interior feels a bit breezy and mismatched but remains clean and attractive despite nearby construction. Popular for margaritas and flavorful tacos, it closes early and does not accept cash.

Shrimp features prominently with good seasoning and appears in burritos and tacos. Combinations like beef and shrimp or filet mignon and lobster offer well-balanced flavors and perfectly cooked meat.

A cool vibe fills the space, making it a hip spot to watch games. Plenty of options and reasonable prices add to the appeal.

People are saying

"I loved the salmon and shrimp burritos; the Mexican food here is amazing."

"This lunch spot's barbecue burrito is a delicious blend of sweet and spicy."

"The shrimp in the burritos and tacos is seasoned perfectly."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the alley next to the restaurant.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They do not accept cash, only credit cards and mobile payments.

08
District image 1
New American restaurant

Sleek and sophisticated interior with low lighting and intimate seating creates a relaxed yet professional ambiance. Large bar area offers unique drinks featuring personalized photo prints. Atmosphere suits social dinners and weekend outings with a warm, inviting vibe.

Fish tacos stand out with crispy fish, a unique sauce, and a special tortilla. Shrimp in the jambalaya is tender and large, cooked just right.

Low-lighting and comfortable seating create a modern, cool vibe throughout the space. The bar and overall atmosphere feel relaxed and stylish right in the heart of downtown.

People are saying

"The food's presentation is a visual delight."

"The fish tacos here are amazing and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% automatic gratuity added to your bill.

2

Validated parking is available; otherwise, parking is very expensive.

3

Happy hour features limited drink options with a relaxed vibe.

09
Smorgasburg (Los Angeles) image 1

Market occupies historic industrial warehouses with vintage architecture and an open layout. Atmosphere feels like a casual neighborhood festival with live DJ music and a lively crowd. Features include outdoor bar, ample seating, and diverse vendors offering food, drinks, and merchandise.

Seafood options include Filipino shrimp, shrimp skewers, and oysters. The selection features diverse dishes like lobster rolls alongside other global flavors.

A really cool vibe comes from the mix of live DJ music playing out of a VW bus bar and the presence of cool chefs serving great food. Security guards at entrances and a convenient parking garage add to the overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the huge variety of food available here."

"Parking was easy and free for the first two hours."

"You can find amazing seafood options, like oysters, among the incredible food selection."

Good to know

1

Entry to the market is free.

2

The market is open only every Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

3

Parking is free for the first two hours in a six-floor structure.

10
Ditroit Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor dining occupies a narrow, hidden space with a chill vibe and lovely atmosphere. The spot feels like a small taco oasis with deliciously spicy salsas at a compact salsa bar. Seating uses plasticware, and the setting offers free parking nearby.

Fish Flauta stands out as a signature dish, often paired with tacos like suadero and duck carnitas. Drinks like palo santo yuzu Agua Fresca complement the seafood offerings well.

Vibe feels trendy and cool throughout the space.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish flauta; it's amazing."

"You have to try the fish flauta; it's amazing."

"I found this place to be a cool, trendy spot."

Good to know

1

There is free parking at Ditroit Taqueria.

2

They have a parking lot right next to the restaurant, which provides peace of mind.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

11
Peking Tavern image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy space blends traditional Chinese elements with contemporary glam and features warm red tones and paper lanterns. Atmosphere stays relaxed and tranquil with indoor and outdoor seating, plus a bistro and bar vibe including karaoke. Crowd enjoys unique drinks like ube lager and knowledgeable baiju mixology.

Fish dumplings stand out with consistent praise alongside steamed dumplings like shu mai and xiao long bao. Dishes also include seafood in noodle and bun forms, offering a variety of textures and flavors.

Youthful vibe shines through the space with cool decor and cozy furniture. Staff and owners add to the relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be unique and flavorful."

"The seafood dumplings here are surprisingly authentic and flavorful."

"The beef black pepper noodles were unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially for private events.

2

Karaoke is available for guests after cocktails, typically starting at 10 PM.

3

Happy hour specials vary by night, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

12
Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a spacious outdoor patio and live music duo that create a chill, classy atmosphere. The space features beautiful decor and a cool vibe with pleasant music, though volume varies. It suits both dates and groups, with fresh sushi and an excellent sake collection.

Fresh fish and a variety of seafood shine here with dishes like sashimi featuring sweet shrimp, Japanese scallop, squid, and octopus. Steamed clams with garlic and a seafood ramen packed with lots of seafood and rich flavor add to the selection.

The spot has a cool vibe that stands out. Wasabi placed between fish and rice without notice feels less cool.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh and flavorful; it's amazing."

"You can load up on sushi and seafood favorites during the BOGO happy hour."

"The vibe and music here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 PM to 7 PM every day.

2

Late-night happy hour is from 10 PM to 2 AM.

3

They offer a buy 1 get 1 special starting at 5 PM daily.

13
Mrs. Fish image 1
Japanese restaurant

Underground Japanese restaurant with aquarium ceiling creates a relaxed, elegant vibe. Live music and DJs add vibrant energy without overpowering conversation. Unique menu and decor offer a distinct dining experience.

Offers unique fish varieties like Barracuda, Sea Bream, and Golden Eye Snapper. The Japanese yellowtail stands out as a distinct seafood option.

Saltwater aquariums cover the ceiling and walls, creating a unique ceiling fish tank experience. The underground space features a great atmosphere with Japanese artwork and a DJ adding to the cool ambiance.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The aquarium ceiling is a stunning focal point."

"The food here is amazing, especially the Miso Cod."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking costs $17.57 before tip, with no street parking available.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 pm with discounted sushi options.

14
Baar Baar - LA image 1
Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant with stylish decor and a Gatsby-inspired bar creates an elegant atmosphere. Bollywood-inspired DJ music adds lively energy and encourages dancing. The space feels open and vibrant, attracting groups for social dining and celebrations.

Wild shrimp ghee roast stands out with its edible shell and rich flavor. Oysters with guava offer a unique twist, while shrimp dishes have a great texture paired with milk bread to soak up sauce.

An Indian fine dining spot with a vibrant atmosphere and night-on-the-town vibes. Appetizers come with a cool twist, and the cocktail menu features Bollywood-themed names.

People are saying

"The food here was absolutely amazing and delicious."

"The seafood here is fantastic, and the service is great."

"The vibes here are so cool and buzzing with energy."

Good to know

1

Brunch on Sundays features live music, with dancing starting around 1:30pm.

2

A special prix fixe menu is available during brunch and special events.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure accommodation.

15
Far Bar image 1

Cozy bar-restaurant with brick backdrops and string lights on a wooden patio creates a casual yet classy vibe. Ten large TVs show sporting events, drawing a crowd that cheers together. Friendly regulars and a historic setting make it feel like a neighborhood hangout.

Fish tacos come with flights of beer and stand out as a solid choice. Shrimp tacos have a texture more like pasta shrimp and don't fit the taco style well.

Original structure creates a cozy bar-restaurant vibe with a cool atmosphere. The friendly staff and inviting patio add to the relaxed, hidden hangout feel.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and packed with flavor."

"The bartenders here are skilled and genuinely friendly."

"The seafood here is served by super fun and friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-7pm Monday to Friday and all day Monday.

2

Happy hour menu items are limited to under $20.

3

Expect a 20% service charge for groups of six or more.

16
Cara Cara image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers beautiful city views with a cool atmosphere enhanced by heated lamps and fire pits. Cocktails stand out as phenomenal, complementing the relaxed yet vibrant vibe. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, adding to the casual, comfortable setting.

Grilled Branzino stands out as a highlight among seafood dishes. Shrimp appears in several forms like Shrimp Tacos and tamale, both noted for strong flavors.

Rooftop patios offer direct skyline views and fire pits that add to the cool vibe. Stylish furniture and a cool backbar create a trendy atmosphere with great food.

People are saying

"The views here are amazing and breathtaking."

"The seafood here is savory and well-prepared with a stunning skyline view."

"The rooftop views here are so cool and awesome."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:30 pm, so plan accordingly.

3

Valet parking is available for guests.

17
Perch image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop bar with a breathtaking cityscape view and live music that enhances a relaxed, quiet atmosphere. The space feels crowded, requiring reservations due to limited capacity. Cocktails stand out as a distinctive feature complementing the setting.

Grilled shrimp stands out with rich flavor. Clams come with well-cooked fish on top. Shrimp Gnocchi offers a satisfying, filling experience. Perch suits seafood lovers well.

Paintings of naked ladies over the bar and cool chandeliers set a unique vibe inside the century-old building. The rooftop offers a view that stands out as beyond cool.

People are saying

"The rooftop view here is amazing, especially at night."

"The Seafood here has amazing overlooks of the city."

"The views of downtown were cool, especially at night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary due to high demand, especially for brunch and dinner.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Live music occurs from 6-10pm, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

18
Zaya image 1
Restaurant

Large bar area with plenty of seating and small intimate tables creates a cozy setting. Live music and a vibrant Latino bartender add energy, while the atmosphere stays pleasant but stuffy due to poor air circulation. The venue blends elegant decor with a cosmopolitan vibe for a lively night out.

Shrimp dishes stand out with shrimp alfredo and garlic shrimp offering rich flavors. The shrimp pasta ranks as a favorite, alongside other seafood options paired with pasta.

A cool venue with a vibe that stands out in the area. It brings a fresh, unique energy to the scene.

People are saying

"The live music here creates a really polished, downtown vibe."

"The live music here is amazing and did not disappoint."

"The live music here is phenomenal, especially Matthew Grant's soulful performances."

Good to know

1

Salsa and bachata dancing happens every Monday at 8 pm, followed by social dancing.

2

Happy hour runs from Wednesday to Friday, 5-8 pm with discounted drinks.

3

Comedy shows take place every Tuesday night, providing a fun midweek option.

19
Casa Ipanema image 1
Restaurant

Large space with beautiful decor and a tropical vibe creates an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. Phenomenal DJs and a fire dancer keep energy lively with top-notch house music and captivating performances. Guests enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant setting that blends dining with entertainment seamlessly.

Shrimp casserole offers a nostalgic, authentic taste reminiscent of Brazilian Moqueca. Pistachio crusted fish delivers a flavor explosion that stands out.

A tropical lounge design sets a cool vibe, especially at night. The place features a DJ and fire show that adds to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The pistachio crusted fish was a flavor explosion."

"The food here is really good and tasty."

Good to know

1

Fire dance performances start at 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for weekend events.

3

The fire dance show lasts about 15 minutes and is a highlight of the evening.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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