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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Hillcrest

Seafood spots

You are looking for a meal centered on fresh catches and ocean-sourced ingredients.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Makai Sushi image 1
Makai Sushi image 2
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Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with cozy indoor seating and a welcoming patio offers a laid-back Hawaiian vibe and fresh, high-quality sushi. Music adds a sophisticated touch while the atmosphere stays casual and inviting. The space feels simple but neat, focusing on authentic flavors and relaxed energy.

Freshness stands out with every dish, paired with exceptional quality that feels authentic. Dining in offers a full experience with amazing service complementing the fantastic food.

Fish comes incredibly fresh with top-notch quality and solid sauces. The seafood shines in dishes like the Godzilla sushi bowl, where fish, rice, and avocado blend perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the freshest I've ever tasted."

"The owner Matthew was so kind and took great care of us."

"The seafood here is amazingly fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The menu features a variety of poke bowls and sushi options.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

02
DASHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a clean, modern interior with beautiful Japanese murals and a chic, intimate layout. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming despite occasional loud music and hard surfaces. Fresh ingredients and creative specialty rolls set it apart from typical sushi spots.

Food shows mindful craftsmanship with each dish presented beautifully and tasting delicious. The menu offers excellent Japanese cuisine that stands out for its artistic quality and flavor.

Fish tastes exceptionally fresh, like it just came out of the ocean. The quality shows clear care in preparation and sourcing.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Parking is limited; allow extra time to find street parking.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

03
Cluck N' Sip image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and about eight tables inside, plus limited outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels friendly and inviting with Mandarin music playing softly. Known for juicy, well-seasoned chicken and affordable prices, it offers a clean, casual place to enjoy simple meals.

Food arrives with top tier crispiness and generous portions for the price. Meals come out on time and taste consistently delicious.

Fish sandwiches feature southern-style seasoning and come with pickles for around $6. Fried fish and chicken are cooked to perfection without being overly seasoned. Sides like mashed potatoes with gravy and glazed salad complement the house sauces well.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is so juicy and crispy."

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

"I loved their fish sandwiches, seasoned just right."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch deal every day for $7.99, including two chicken tenders, a side, and a drink.

2

Happy hour specials are available at Cluck N' Sip.

3

The restaurant is halal certified, making it a good option for halal diners.

04
CURRY NATION - INDIAN RESTAURANT & CATERING image 1

Modern interior combines with beautiful decor and clean, comfortable atmosphere. Calm environment features Indian music that suits families and friends. Staff attire varies, but overall vibe remains welcoming and cozy.

Food comes out fast, fresh, and full of flavor with consistently excellent quality. The menu offers authentic Indian dishes that satisfy family dining and casual meals alike.

Tandoori shrimp features prominently alongside dishes like butter chicken and gobi manchurian. It offers a spiced grilled flavor that complements the other rich, saucy items.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The mango lassi is so smooth and refreshing."

"The seafood dishes here are packed with flavor and taste super fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the lot under the Atlas building, which is free.

2

The restaurant does not yet have a liquor license, but it is being worked on.

3

The menu features a good variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

05
Parma Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with intimate seating and a warm, family-friendly vibe. Small indoor space complements a dog-friendly outdoor patio. Staff create a welcoming atmosphere with authentic Italian charm.

Offers authentic Italian cuisine with high-quality ingredients. Food matches the taste and quality found in Italy.

Linguine with clams and shrimp fettuccine with vodka sauce stand out on the menu. Specials like squid-ink pasta and seafood risotto add variety and flavor.

People are saying

"The pasta here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

"The food here is phenomenal, packed with flavor and passion."

"The seafood pasta here is amazing, especially the walnut pesto with shrimp."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours to secure a table.

2

On Wednesdays, enjoy 30% off a bottle of wine with dinner.

3

The Tuesday date night menu offers great value for couples.

06
Corner Cafe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, family-owned Chinese restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with a warm, comforting vibe. Seating faces the street, creating a casual, chill setting. Food arrives quickly, featuring authentic Cantonese-style dishes that stand out in the area.

Authentic Chinese food stands out with consistent quality and quick preparation. The chicken teriyaki is especially delicious and a personal favorite.

Shrimp dishes stand out with walnut shrimp and shrimp in black bean sauce. Noodle options include fried noodles with shrimp and a steaming hot shrimp noodle soup.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here tastes homemade and authentic."

"The seafood dishes here, like the walnut shrimp, were amazing."

"The takeout here is surprisingly delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking could be an issue depending on the hours.

2

There aren't many tables, so during peak times, it might be better to order takeout.

3

There is 15-minute parking outside for pickup.

07
Tacaliente Mexican Grill image 1

Open, spacious dining area features bright murals and mounted TVs creating a casual, authentic vibe. A self-serve salsa bar with hot carrots adds interactive flavor options. The atmosphere suits relaxed meals with family and friends, blending modern comfort with traditional Mexican elements.

Tacos stand out with spicy flavors that meet high standards. Food offers good value and consistent quality for the price.

Battered fish tacos stand out with their big, fresh, and tasty portions. Happy hour offers affordable deals like $2.50 fish tacos and draft beer, making seafood options like shrimp tacos and street tacos easy to enjoy.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be fantastic and packed with flavor."

"The tacos here are packed with flavor and loaded with meat."

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers four tacos for $7 starting at 2 PM.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 PM with fish tacos at $1.29 each.

3

They accept credit cards only; no cash payments.

08
La Vecindad Neighborhood TACOS image 1

Colorful outdoor seating and kitsch Mexican vecindad decor create a lively, fun atmosphere with cool vibes. Unique salsa bar and flavorful micheladas add to the experience. The place feels like a casual trip south of the border with inviting, spacious surroundings.

Food features authentic Mexican flavor and arrives quickly. Tacos and other dishes taste exceptionally good and very tasty in a welcoming setting.

Fish tacos stand out with options like blackened, grilled, and quesa birria styles. The Seafood Trio taco and bacon-wrapped shrimp in the Costal Azul taco add unique flavors.

People are saying

"I ate the best tacos I have ever eaten here."

"The Bisteces Rancheros seafood is so good, my tastebuds went wild."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 2 tacos for $8 and $9 house margaritas.

2

Happy hour runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3 to 6 pm.

3

Each canned or bottled soda is priced at $4.

09
White Elephant Asian Kitchen image 1

Quaint restaurant with decor that resembles a wine shop offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere with soft background music. The vibe stays relaxed and quiet, making it suitable for casual meals. It stands out for its inviting ambiance and chilled setting.

Food features fresh, authentic Thai flavors with excellent quality and exquisite preparation. Dishes come out delicious and stand out for their authenticity.

Massive shrimp appear in the shrimp appetizer and fire cracker shrimp. Spicy fried rice and seafood pad talay stand out with strong flavors. Tom yum with shrimp lacks flavor and has soggy shrimp.

People are saying

"The salads here are so fresh and full of flavor."

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

"I found the seafood pad talay to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, so consider arriving early.

2

Seating is limited, especially during peak hours.

3

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

10
Ortega's A Mexican Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Quaint bistro with authentic Mexican decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic Mexican music plays, adding to the vibrant yet cozy vibe. Outdoor seating and a separate upstairs area offer varied spaces for dining and meetings.

Mexican dishes come with lots of flavor and generous portions. Food quality stays consistently excellent alongside attentive service.

Shrimp enchiladas stand out with rich flavor. Fish tacos come in several styles, including grilled and Ensenada style, both thin, crisp, and highly praised. Mahi mahi dishes also offer a delicious option.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the fresh tortillas and flavorful tacos."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and flavorful."

"I highly recommend the shrimp enchiladas and fish tacos."

Good to know

1

Brunch includes unlimited mimosas at a great price.

2

Happy hour specials are available from 6pm.

3

Parking can be a challenge in the area.

11
Lazy Acres Market - Mission Hills image 1

Market combines natural foods, fresh produce, and premade meals with a smoothie and juice bar. Atmosphere feels clean and local, with a small outdoor seating area and EV charger. Offers high-quality products and specialty items like poke and bakery treats, though prices are on the higher side.

Food here is fresh and cooked with olive oil, avoiding additives and preservatives. The deli and buffet offer high quality premade meals with a great variety of healthy, organic, and specialty options.

A whole pokรฉ bar offers multiple seafood options prepared with Hawaiian flavors. The seafood department stays fresh with well-cut fish and helpful staff at the meat and fish counter.

People are saying

"I found a great selection of fresh, organic healthy foods here."

"I loved their prepared food section; it was always ready to eat."

"I found the seafood here to be really fresh and well-prepared."

Good to know

1

The market offers a great selection of fresh produce and healthy snacks.

2

There is plenty of parking available for customers.

3

They provide samples of their cosmetics section.

12
Pokรฉ Chop image 1

Small poke bar offers inside seating with a trendy, clean interior and football games on TVs. Atmosphere carries good vibes with great music and no wait times. Generous portions and fresh fish create a satisfying, customizable experience.

Food comes out extremely fresh and delicious with reasonable prices. Staff know the menu well and their recommendations hit the mark.

Fish comes in super fresh and top quality cuts that melt in your mouth. Portions are generous and the flavor stands out compared to average poke shops.

People are saying

"I found the poke here to be the best I've ever tasted."

"The seafood here is so fresh and tastes amazing."

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

Good to know

1

Parking at Pokรฉ Chop can be a nightmare, but there is a lot available.

2

The medium size poke bowl comes with three scoops of protein.

3

Avocado costs $1 extra for about 5-7 slices.

13
Crest Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Remodeled space with open kitchen view and standing tables only creates a clean, inviting atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes bright yellow umbrellas and a bar area, encouraging a casual, social vibe. The place draws a crowd looking for freshly grilled tacos in a trendy, friendly setting.

Mexican food here is insanely fresh with outstanding breakfast burritos. The spot works well for quick meals and catering, delivering consistently great flavors.

Fish tacos come in beer-battered mahi mahi and are perfectly cooked. Options include tacos, burritos, rolled tacos, quesadillas, nachos, fries, and crunch wraps, with some fish tacos priced at $1.99.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is made with genuine care and warmth."

"The food here is tender, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the perfectly cooked fish."

Good to know

1

Crest Taco offers a limited menu of high-quality tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

2

Fish tacos are available for $1.99, making them a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is open late on weekends, perfect for late-night cravings.

14
Cocina De Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern Mexican restaurant offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a breezy patio elevated for people watching. Atmosphere feels high class yet welcoming, with artistic plating and a lively bar featuring fresh margaritas and unique cocktails. Crowd enjoys a comfortable, friendly vibe with generous portions and stylish design.

Mexican food comes out quickly and is consistently delicious with good flavor. Drinks, including mezcal, complement the meals well, and service stays attentive throughout.

Fish tacos come out tender and flavorful. The menu features ceviche with local shrimp, brightened by citrus and habaneros, plus tender octopus and fresh oysters.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the food here delicious and beautifully presented."

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm most days with affordable prices.

2

Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Parking can be limited with only street parking available.

15
RK Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant offers an intimate space with about 10 tables and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Loud music and conversations create a vibrant, nightclub-like energy that carries easily through the space. Known for fresh, authentic sushi and a reliable quick lunch experience.

Food arrives quickly with generous portions and reasonable prices. The menu offers super delicious dishes that satisfy both adults and kids.

Fish comes incredibly fresh with a perfect balance of fresh fish flavor and sauce. Oysters stand out as unbelievable, and cooked seafood options offer tender dishes with spicy sauce and sesame oil.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is fresh and tastes great."

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and tasty."

"The chicken teriyaki food was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on select items.

2

The all-you-can-eat menu is $40 but has limited options.

3

Parking is available in a small lot with about 10 spaces.

16
Baikohken Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, modernized Japanese ramen shop offers an upscale yet cozy vibe with a clean, bright interior. Atmosphere stays quiet and casual, welcoming for relaxed meals. Known for authentic broths and perfectly balanced saltiness, it serves some of the best ramen flavors outside Japan.

Food shows depth of flavor through mixing base broths. Quality is high and prices are reasonable. Dishes are consistently delicious and invite more eating.

Broth blends tonkotsu and seafood umami but the seafood flavor lacks freshness and depth. The Hokkaido style seafood broth offers a distinct umami, complemented by moving leaves over the fish balls.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be excellent and authentic."

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

"The seafood here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining, which is a recent change.

2

Parking is very difficult, especially on weekends.

3

The Tonkotsu ramen costs about $24, while Miso ramen is $15.

17
Dumplings N More image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy space with wooden tables and chairs and a quiet, warm atmosphere. Guests watch dumplings being handmade through a window, adding a hands-on feel to the experience. The place offers vegetarian-friendly options and feels like home cooking.

Authentic Chinese food shines here with delicious dumplings and other dishes. Prices stay reasonable, making it a solid choice for quality and value.

Honey walnut shrimp stands out with a crunchy texture and rich flavor. Shrimp dishes like Dim Sum Crystal Shrimp and shrimp dumplings offer authentic tastes reminiscent of China. The shrimp with preserved cabbage blends seafood with a comforting broth vibe.

People are saying

"I found the dumplings here to be authentically delicious."

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"The shrimp dumplings here reminded me of China."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough around the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

2

Lunch specials offer great deals for budget-conscious diners.

3

The restaurant is family-run and known for handmade dumplings.

18
Whole Foods Market image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store combines tight aisles with a warm, cozy atmosphere and soothing music. It features a rooftop parking and seating area, plus an Amazon pick-up station for convenience. Crowds gather here regularly, drawn by fresh produce and ready-made meals.

Offers a wide selection of fresh produce, prepared foods, and baked goods with many local and vegan options. The hot food bar uses olive oil and the store includes an Amazon pick-up and drop-off station for convenience.

Fresh seafood includes a huge selection of fish and oysters. Oysters come shucked and plated on ice, with staff checking they are alive before picking. Unique options like tin fish are available, and special deals on oysters happen on Fridays.

People are saying

"I found so many fresh, organic, and healthy food options here."

"I found the market's prepared food and desserts to be high quality."

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely difficult, especially during peak hours.

2

Whole Foods Market offers special deals on Tuesdays and Fridays.

3

The hot food bar may not be ready by 11 AM.

19
TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST image 1

Small dining space features authentic Thai decor and classical music playing softly. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy, often quiet on weekdays, making it suitable for a relaxed meal. Walls display beautiful tapestries that add to the pleasant and casual vibe.

Food here is authentic Thai, fresh, and nicely presented. Dishes stay consistently delicious and tasty over the years.

Fried whole fish comes with a crisp skin, ginger, and a sauce full of traditional Thai flavors, served with vegetables and Chinese mushrooms. Pad see-iw noodles with tofu and pad cha seafood stand out, while shrimp dishes can vary in freshness.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious, with perfectly balanced spices."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit tricky in Hillcrest.

2

Their entrees with rice are priced around $13-$16.

3

They can accommodate very mild spiciness if requested.

20
Cellar Hand image 1
Restaurant

Indoor and outdoor spaces blend seamlessly with a beautiful patio that welcomes dogs and enhances the setting. The atmosphere stays lively but low key, featuring live jazz and vinyl DJ sets during brunch. Warm lighting and cozy seating create an intimate, romantic vibe ideal for relaxed dining.

Food features super fresh local ingredients and farm to table sourcing with clear care, especially in proteins. Dishes come out top-notch and consistently delicious.

Whole fish stands out with unbelievable flavor. The seafood platter starter offers a great variety including oysters that pair well with sauce, sardines with ritz crackers, and crispy skin rock fish.

People are saying

"I found the wine here to be fantastic."

"The food here is amazing and fresh with great flavors."

"The seafood dishes here are amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price wines by the glass.

2

Reservations are recommended for the three-course bar dinners on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

3

The happy hour extends into dinner service, providing great value.

21
Palomino's Mexican & Seafood image 1

Long-established taco shop with a laid back atmosphere and salsa bar draws steady carryout traffic. Menu offers authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions and standout items like menudo and Al Pastor tacos. Interior is functional but average, with some parking challenges nearby.

Mexican food stands out with its delicious and well served dishes. The flavors are consistently amazing and appeal even to picky eaters.

Fish tacos stand out as a solid choice with fresh flavors. Shrimp burritos offer a hearty seafood option. Ceviche uses pre-cooked shrimp and a ketchup-based sauce with minimal onion.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so good, I made two trips."

"I found the food here to be really good."

"I was addicted to their pico de gallo; I would have bought it by the gallon."

Good to know

1

The menu has a great variety of meat, fish, and meatless options.

2

There are a few free parking spaces on the side of the restaurant.

3

Parking could be challenging at times since they no longer had the lot immediately adjacent to the restaurant.

22
NOLA on 5th image 1
American restaurant

Older building with New Orleans vibe and tiny interior creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Loud music and bar energy fill the space, especially near the bar area. Outdoor dog-friendly patio offers a relaxed spot for lunch or watching games on multiple TVs.

Food offers authentic New Orleans flavor with a focus on classic dishes. Service complements the down home food with attentive care.

Seafood dishes feature Gulf shrimp flown in three times a week and fresh oysters. Signature items include shrimp and grits with bold spice, shrimp etouffee, and a beef and shrimp po'boy known from Triple D.

People are saying

"The jambalaya and poboy here are top notch."

"I found the food here to be amazing and tasty."

"This seafood poboy was dry without the gravy."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour at NOLA on 5th is from 3 to 6 pm.

2

The food price range is from $8 to $26.

3

NOLA on 5th offers limited vegetarian options, mainly two salads at $14 each.

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