Go with the Flow: Top 5 Fish Restaurants in Atlanta

Sure, Atlanta has a plentiful array of restaurants that cater to whatever dining experience you are in the mood for, but some of our finest five-star culinary masterpieces lie within the seafood realm. Take a look at our list of the most upscale and equally deliciously fish restaurants in Atlanta. Be prepared to make reservations immediately after.

Atlanta Fish Market

This is an Atlanta mainstay for many reasons. You can never go wrong with a visit to one of the city’s most popular spots. Apart of dining magnate Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, everything here is of the highest quality. Boasting one of the Southeast’s largest seafood selections, there are over 100 varieties of fresh catch to choose from and with a menu that is printed twice a day the possibilities are endless, guaranteeing something will tempt your taste buds. Executive Chef Robert Holley crafts a menu that includes standouts like the cedar planked short smoked salmon, signature stuffed flounder and the Georgia Mountain rainbow trout. If that wasn’t quite enough to convince you, the dessert options are certain to do the trick. The Georgia pecan tart, chocolate praline explosion or the signature Atlanta Fish Market tiramisu cap off a meal deliciously.

Atlanta Fish Market is located at 265 Pharr Rd. 404.262.3165

The Oceanaire Seafood Room

Now we come to my personal favorite on the list. I have been dining at Oceanaire for many years and I have yet to have a bad meal. Atmosphere, service and most importantly food, are always exemplary. Executive Chef Chris Murphy presides over the seafood smorgasbord that is flown in fresh daily. A few of my menu recommendations start with their most popular appetizer, shrimp and grits followed by dinner choices like the amazing baked stuffed cod, seafood mixed grill, black & blue Scottish salmon and the seared Costa Rican snapper. I’m getting hungry just typing this! As if you need any more reasons to stop in and sample what Oceanaire has to offer, the prime Midtown Atlanta location should seal the deal.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room is located at 1100 Peachtree St. 404.475.2277

Ray’s on the River

It seems as if all Atlanta special events are celebrated at this MVP of seafood restaurants. From proms to birthdays, anniversaries and rehearsal dinners, if you have an important occasion this is the place to go. First, let’s discuss the view. When you sit down to eat there is a jaw-dropping view of the Chattahoochee River, which expertly sets any mood.  Nature’s ambiance is the perfect way to begin a meal that leaves a lasting impression. One of three Ray’s restaurants that also include Ray’s in the City and Ray’s Killer Creek speaks volumes to how successful and in demand this franchise is. The Chilean sea bass, black grouper, Norwegian salmon Oscar and yellow fin tuna are top of the line, but the fun doesn’t stop there. Also, enjoy the live music or the award-winning Sunday brunch featuring over 80 selections.

Ray’s on the River is located at 6700 Powers Ferry Rd. 770.955.1187

Ray’s in the City

Yes, another Ray’s contribution makes our list. Why? Because they truly are a culinary force in Atlanta that everyone frequents at some point. Their superior reputation is well-deserved as evidenced by their delicious food. Located in Buckhead, Ray’s in the City offers a more metropolitan landscape and approach than the previous entry on the list. What sets them apart is their sushi/oyster bar featuring sushi, sashimi, nigiri and freshly shucked oysters flown in daily from both coasts. If raw fish isn’t your thing try a selection from the dinner menu. Horseradish crusted grouper, blackened mahi mahi Alexander and the sun corn crusted Georgia Mountain trout are highly recommended. But before you go it’s a must that you try their signature red velvet cake that has been known to make customers order dessert first.

Ray’s in the City is located at 240 Peachtree St. NW 404.524.9224

Goldfish

Part of the exclusive Here to Serve restaurant group, Goldfish is a jack of all trades: perfect for a romantic dinner, family outing or a business meeting. Upon entry there is a breathtaking 600 gallon salt water aquarium that mesmerizes even before you’ve had a single thing to eat. In business for 10 years this summer, their menu offerings and expert service reflect their success. Several standouts such as the lemon pepper swordfish, pan roasted Arctic char and the tom tom tilapia is some of the best fish in the entire city.  Be sure to try items from their top-ranking sushi menu before you pack it in and go home.

Goldfish is located at 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. 770.671.0100