Seafood in the summer just hits the spot!
Discover some of the freshest places that serve seafood in the DMV! Of course, depending on the season and the catch of the day, the restaurant menus may vary. Additionally, something important to keep in mind when planning to consume seafood that the renowned documentary Seaspiracy uncovered, is that the fishing industry is the biggest cause of ocean pollution and the climate crisis. Indeed, the fishing industry has wiped out 90% of the ocean’s largest fish and fishing gear is often left behind polluting the ocean and entrapping sea creatures. So, if you are going to consume seafood, it is important to make sure it is ethically sourced! Below are some good places to start.
1. McCormick and Schmick’s
This restaurant proudly serves sustainable seafood, farmed ethically with sustainably sourced ingredients. All this allows the creation of an upscale dining experience where quality and freshness take the upper hand. McCormick’s is also well known for their handcrafted mixology, and world-class private dining event spaces. If you are looking for a sophisticated restaurant, this is the place to go!
Where: 1652 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006
2. Luke’s Lobster
Luke’s is the place to go if you’re in the mood for a lobster roll! Their seafood is sustainably sourced and is even Certified B Corps meaning the company “achieves social and environmental good, not just profit.” With their careful attention to the environment, protecting the oceans while they fish, and switching to more sustainable options in their restaurant, Luke’s is a seafood place we can trust! Support their cause by dining here!
Where: 800 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20006; 624 E St NW, Washington, DC 20004; 7129 Bethesda Ln, Bethesda, MD 20814.
3. Hank’s Oyster Bar
Serving up Oysters from the East and West coast since 2005, and with three locations in the DMV, this restaurant is a DC icon. Some fan-favorite menu items are their Maine-style lobster roll, fried oyster po’boy, crab cake platter, and molasses braised short ribs. Plus on Tuesdays, it’s Taco Tuesday where they serve exclusive in-house tacos. Come taste the freshness of the ocean at this seafood restaurant!
Where: 1624 Q Street, NW Washington, DC 20009; 701 Wharf Street SW Washington, DC 20024; 1026 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314
4. Hot n Juicy Crawfish
If you’re the type of person to take spicy food really seriously and likes to get messy when eating, you need to visit Hot n Juicy Crawfish! With locations around the US, this has become an institution for spicy seafood. You can order shellfish, crawfish, shrimp, crab legs, and lobster legs by the pound. Or try their fried baskets, appetizers and combos, and so much more. Check this place out to feast on a meal you won’t forget!
Where: 2651 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008
Chasin’ Tails
This is another place where you can get your hands dirty while eating shellfish! Their seafood recipe is inspired by Cajun-style cuisine, offering deliciously spiced and flavorful meals. In addition to seafood, they offer high-quality drinks that pair perfectly with a big platter of crabs, shrimp, lobster, fish, and any other beach food you desire.
Where: 2200 N Westmoreland Street, Arlington, VA 22213
[Featured image: @hanksoysterbar/ Instagram]