The Best Seafood in Siesta Key: 8 Must-Try Eateries

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If you’re looking for the best seafood in Siesta Key, you’ve come to the right place!

Here you’ll find favorite local spots for seafood lovers of all kinds!

Whether you’re a fan of fresh fish, succulent shrimp, savory crab legs, or looking for the ultimate Siesta Key oyster bar, we’ve got you covered.

So read on and discover some of the best restaurants featuring seafood that Siesta Key has to offer!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. For more info, see disclosure.

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The Best Seafood in Siesta Key

Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, Siesta Key is renowned for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets.

But did you know that this little island paradise is also home to some of the best seafood around?

In fact, one of the best things about Siesta Key is the abundance of ultra-fresh seafood.

You can find it just about anywhere, from high-end restaurants to more casual beachside eateries.

And psst…check out our related posts before your trip:

Now, let’s get back to the seafood!

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Here are local’s favorite spots for enjoying the freshest seafood out there:

Best seafood in Siesta Key; seafood platter

1. Captain Curt’s Crab and Oyster Bar

Captain Kurt’s Oyster Bar | Address: 1200 Old Stickney Point Rd.

If you’re a fan of fresh fish, then you’ll definitely want to check out Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar.

This local favorite serves up a wide variety of seafood-focused dishes, all of which are sure to please the palate.

If you only get to try one item, make it the clam chowder.

The Captain’s clam chowder is an award-winner, having secured the coveted 1st place prize at the Great Chowder Cookoff in Newport, Rhode Island, among other accolades.

Some of our other favorite menu items include the crab, crab cakes, and of course the fresh oysters.

Captain Curt’s is also known for its live music in the evenings, as well as the fun Sniki Tiki Bar they offer.

The tiki bar is open until 2 am and has a beautiful outdoor tropical setting.

It is one of our favorite spots to stop and enjoy a cold beer or two!

Best seafood in Siesta Key; steak and lobster

2. Siesta Key Summer House Steak and Seafood

Summer House Steak & Seafood | Address: 149 Avenida Messina

If you’re looking for a more elegant seafood spot, then you’ll want to check out Summer House Steak and Seafood.

As the name suggests, this must-visit eatery is perfect for those who want to enjoy a surf and turf dinner.

Located on Avenida Messina, the menu features a wide variety of both steak and seafood items, all of which are absolutely delicious.

We highly recommend the crab cakes, as they are some of the best we’ve ever had.

Other popular menu items include the seared scallops, shrimp scampi, and filet mignon.

The steaks have a lobster tail upgrade available, making it the perfect surf and turf option. (Hint: The seared diver scallops also make for a lovely steak addition!)

Steaks are hand-cut and then cooked on a 1200-degree Montague Grill, so you can enjoy the juiciest meat possible.

If you’re fond of enjoying a glass of wine or two, this is one of the best places to dine.

After all, the dining room bar is stocked with an extensive wine list featuring a wide selection of red, white, and sparkling wine by the glass or bottle.

No matter what you order, you’re sure to enjoy a fantastic meal at Summer House Steak and Seafood.

Just be sure to save room for dessert! The key lime pie is an absolute must-try.

3. The Old Salty Dog

The Old Salty Dog | Address: 5023 Ocean Blvd.

Nestled inside Siesta Key Village, The Old Salty Dog is a casual restaurant for those who want to enjoy a laid-back seafood meal.

This beloved restaurant has been around for over 20 years and is best known for its hot dogs, burgers, and of course, seafood.

Because of the wide offerings, this eatery is often hailed by many as the best family restaurant in the area.

The menu features all of your favorite seafood items like shrimp baskets, fish sandwiches, and clam strips.

You can also order a combo like the Admiral’s Platter (fish and chips served with shrimp), or Captain’s Plate (Mahi-mahi and shrimp) if you can’t decide on just one thing!

Other popular menu items include the conch fritters, which are fried and served with a delicious mango chili dipping sauce.

Like your food with a bit of a kick? Give the fish gumbo a try.

No matter what you order, you’re sure to enjoy your meal at The Old Salty Dog.

Additional planning tip: Have a furry four-legged friend?

Invite your pooch to join you for lunch as this venue is dog friendly.

4. Daiquiri Deck

Daiquiri Deck South Siesta Key | Address: 1250 Stickney Point Rd.
Daiquiri Deck Siesta Key Village | Address: 5250 Ocean Blvd.

The Daiquiri Deck (2 locations in Siesta Key!) is one of the best seafood restaurants for those who want to enjoy a delicious Florida seafood meal with a view.

This Ocean Boulevard spot is best known for its ample outdoor seating and delicious daiquiris, but the food menu is definitely worth exploring as well.

If you are craving oysters, this is definitely a spot worth checking out.

You can enjoy a selection of oysters raw, steamed, or baked.

Oyster shooters are also available.

The other seafood options are endless, but some of our favorites include shrimp tacos, grouper sandwiches, and blackened Mahi bites.

The fish here is always fresh and prepared to perfection!

If you’re looking for something a little lighter, the salads are also a fantastic option.

We love the Key West Mahi salad and the lump crab and shrimp seafood cobb salad.

Additional planning tip: In the mood to partake in a drink?

Daiquiri Deck offers a daily happy hour from 3 pm to 7 pm. You can enjoy a half-price souvenir cup as well as discounts on alcohol.

Bringing the whole family? Don’t worry, those under 21 can partake in some delicious virgin daiquiris!

5. Siesta Key Oyster Bar

Siesta Key Oyster Bar | Address: 5238 Ocean Blvd.

Siesta Key Oyster Bar is a fantastic place for those who want to enjoy fresh, local seafood.

As the name suggests, this restaurant is one of the top seafood restaurants for oysters, but there are plenty of other seafood selections on the menu as well.

In addition to raw and baked oysters, you can also enjoy house favorites such as grouper bites with signature remoulade, and the Siesta Key extravaganza which offers blackened Mahi jerked shrimp and 2 crab cakes along with 2 sides of your choice.

The fish tacos and chipotle lobster tacos are also excellent options!

This seafood restaurant also is a favorite place for those who are gluten-free.

Those avoiding gluten can enjoy the seafood tour, scallops and risotto, and the seafood paella, among many other options.

Oyster lovers will definitely want to take advantage of the daily happy hour from 3 pm to 6 pm where you can enjoy 50% off oysters!

The Lobster Pot seafood restaurant in Siesta Key

6. The Lobster Pot

The Lobster Pot | Address: 5157 Ocean Blvd.

The Lobster Pot restaurant is also located on Ocean Blvd in the heart of Siesta Key Village and is a fun family-run eatery with a seafood-heavy menu.

This spot is best known for its lobster, and there are plenty of options featuring this sweet meat!

Two must-haves from the menu include the lobster bisque, which is a Taste of Sarasota award-winner, and the baked stuffed lobster dutchess, another award winner.

Baked lobster mac and cheese and lobster ravioli will also be loved by the entire family.

For those who want to try something outside of lobster, there are several options for fish dinners, which can be served fried, grilled, blackened, or boiled.

7. The Seafood Joint

The Seafood Joint | Address: 217 Avenida Madera

The Seafood Joint is a newer seafood restaurant in Siesta Key, but it has quickly become a local favorite.

This spot is best known for specializing in local sustainable seafood that’s ultra-fresh.

The fish and chips are some of the best in town.

In addition, the cod is always fresh and crispy and served with delicious hush puppies.

Can’t narrow it down to just one thing? Give the seafood trio a try!

With this dish you can enjoy fish, shrimp, and scallops, all served either grilled or blackened.

Other excellent menu items include the smoked Mahi fish dip, conch fritters, and the grouper sandwich.

Additional planning tip: Want to try your hand at cooking your own seafood dinner?

The Seafood Joint also has a market where you can purchase fresh fish, muscles, shrimp, and other offerings to take home.

8. Owen’s Fish Camp

Owen’s Fish Camp | Address: 516 Burns Ct #7030, Sarasota, FL

Owen’s Fish Camp is a unique seafood restaurant located in nearby downtown Sarasota.

Located right on a beach in Sarasota, Owen’s Fish Camp is named after Owen Burns, who was the original developer of Sarasota, Florida.

This spot is best known for its Southern-style seafood dishes with a twist.

In addition, the casual atmosphere (and backyard tire swing!) make this a great family dining experience.

One of the most popular menu items is the shrimp and grits, which come with spicy smoked sausage.

Another fan favorite is The Murph’s famous bloody mary oyster shooters.

For those who want to enjoy a more traditional seafood dinner with a spin, the fried catfish is breaded in cornbread for a southern twist, then served with spicy collards and grits.

If you happen to have those in your party who aren’t seafood fans, there are still plenty of delicious offerings.

The Really Good Burger is made with pimento cheese, and the pulled BBQ pork on a bun has a delicious slaw topping.

Where to Stay in Siesta Key, FL

Because all of Siesta Key’s beaches and attractions are relatively close to one another, you can choose to stay in one place for the entire duration of your trip to Siesta Key.

Also, there are several resorts located either on the beach or near it.

Our favorites, which are all highly rated, include Sarasota Surf & Racquet Club (our full review coming soon!), Tropical Breeze Resort, and Hyatt Residence Club Siesta Key Beach.

For more options, consider staying in nearby Sarasota.

Though it is about a 20- minute drive from Sarasota to Siesta Key, you may find more options that suit your family’s needs.

Our favorites include Lido Beach Resort (oceanfront), and Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota (convenient downtown location, free breakfast, and happy hour).

Best Seafood in Siesta Key: Conclusion

These seafood restaurants are some of the best that Siesta Key, Florida has to offer!

No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something delicious.

Do you have a favorite seafood spot in Sarasota or Siesta Key?

Let me know in the comments below!

And if you’re looking for more restaurant recommendations, be sure to check out my list of 11 must-try restaurants in Siesta Key.

If you enjoyed reading our article on the best seafood in Sarasota and Siesta Key, check out our related posts:

Siesta Key, Florida:

Sarasota, Florida:

The surrounding area:

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