The Absolute Best Seafood in Garner [Updated 2026]

As I dove into the vibrant culinary scene here, I visited 12 top-notch spots that serve up everything from succulent shrimp to the freshest fish. Each place has its own unique flair, and trust me, my taste buds have never been more grateful!

Living in Garner has its perks, especially when it comes to seafood. I’ve navigated the menus, chatted with the chefs, and soaked up the local vibes to bring you the most mouthwatering recommendations. So, whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, get ready to discover flavors that will make your palate sing!

Captain Stanley's Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Authentic Southern seafood
Friendly and attentive staff
Clean and organized environment
Worth the travel from Raleigh
Delicious well-seasoned dishes

Captain Stanley's Seafood Restaurant in Garner truly feels like a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was greeted by the scent of authentic Southern seafood, wafting through the air like an unspoken promise of deliciousness. The restaurant boasted a clean and organized environment, which instantly made me feel comfortable and ready to indulge.

The friendly and attentive staff only enhanced my experience; they made me feel like a cherished guest rather than just another customer. Eager to dive into their menu, I found it chock-full of tempting options, all well-seasoned to perfection. I opted for their famous fried shrimp and I can confidently say it was a delectable choice—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor.

What struck me most was the overall value of Captain Stanley's; it's definitely a place worth traveling to from Raleigh. The atmosphere, paired with superb seafood, makes it clear to me that this restaurant deserves a top spot in the seafood scene of Garner. I left with a full belly and a happy heart, eager to return and explore more of their offerings. Captain Stanley's is a must-visit for any seafood lover!

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Locals Seafood - State Farmers Market

Highlights
Fresh NC Oysters Available
Knowledgeable Staff Expertise
Phenomenal Spanish Mackerel
Convenient Online Ordering
Explore Diverse Seafood Options

Locals Seafood - State Farmers Market has quickly become one of my favorite seafood spots in Garner! From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by a North Carolina charm that just oozes authenticity. The first thing that caught my attention was their impressive selection of fresh NC oysters—plucked straight from our local waters, and they’re so deliciously briny, they practically sing 🦪.

What truly sets Locals apart is the knowledgeable staff. They’re passionate about seafood and ready to share their expertise. I was fortunate to get some insider tips on cooking the phenomenal Spanish mackerel I couldn’t resist adding to my cart. After savoring that melt-in-your-mouth goodness at home, I can confidently say it’s now a staple in my kitchen!

Navigating their diverse seafood options felt like a delightful treasure hunt, each aisle bursting with possibilities. Plus, if you're short on time, their convenient online ordering makes it easy to grab your favorites without any fuss. All in all, if you’re hunting for the best seafood in Garner, Locals Seafood is a gem you won’t want to miss!

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Carolina Fish Fry Co.

Carolina Fish Fry Co. is a gem in Garner that reels you in with its mouthwatering seafood. The moment I stepped in, the aroma of freshly fried fish surrounded me, promising a delightful experience. I tried their signature fried flounder—it's a crispy, yet tender masterpiece! The homemade hushpuppies were a perfect sidekick, boasting a sweet crunch that kept me coming back for more. And let's not forget the zesty tartar sauce that elevated each bite. For anyone craving authentic Southern seafood with a cheerful vibe, this spot is an absolute must-visit!

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Cape Fear Seafood Company

Cape Fear Seafood Company in Garner is a delightful gem that captures the essence of coastal cuisine right in the heart of North Carolina. As soon as I stepped in, the inviting atmosphere made me feel at home. I indulged in their signature shrimp and grits, and let me tell you, the flavors practically danced on my palate! Fresh, succulent seafood paired with a perfect blend of spices left me craving more. The service was attentive yet relaxed, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience. If you're hunting for a spot where oceanic treasures meet Southern charm, this is the place to be!

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Crab Seafood House

Crab Seafood House in Garner is a delightful gem that left my taste buds dancing with joy! From the moment I walked in, the cozy ambiance felt like a warm hug. I indulged in their succulent crab legs, perfectly seasoned and tender, which made me feel like a seafood royalty. The fried calamari were crisp and flavorful, expertly complemented by a zesty dipping sauce. The friendly staff added a cherry on top of my experience, ensuring every need was met with a smile. For seafood lovers seeking a mouthwatering adventure, Crab Seafood House is a must-visit!

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N.C. Seafood Restaurant at the Farmers Market

At N.C. Seafood Restaurant, the fresh catch takes center stage! With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff, I felt right at home. The mailboat shrimp, seasoned to perfection, were a delightful burst of flavor, while the crab cakes practically melted in my mouth. The fish tacos, topped with their zesty slaw, provided a refreshing twist that left me craving more. It’s clear that this spot champions local ingredients, elevating the experience from just dining to a celebration of coastal cuisine. If you’re seeking a true taste of the sea, don’t miss this gem nestled in the heart of Garner!

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Saltwater Seafood Market

Saltwater Seafood Market is a gem nestled in Garner, where the ocean's bounty meets local charm. As soon as I walked in, the fresh aromas hinted at the ocean's finest offerings. Their selection of shrimp is simply unbeatable—plump and bursting with flavor, making every bite a taste of the sea. The friendly staff were eager to share cooking tips, enhancing my culinary adventure at home. I couldn't resist the smoked fish dip, a delicious and addictive treat that had me coming back for more. If you're a seafood lover in Garner, this spot is a must-visit for a delightful feast!

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TrYSeafood Grill in Cary

My visit to TrYSeafood Grill in Cary, nestled within Garner, was a delightful dive into the world of fresh seafood. The moment I stepped in, the atmosphere buzzed with a playful energy, perfectly complementing the fantastic menu. I savored the blackened mahi-mahi, which danced on my palate with its zesty spices. Don't miss the lobster mac and cheese—a decadent twist that left me craving more! The staff was not only attentive but also enthusiastic about their offerings. If you’re seeking a splash of flavor and fun, TrYSeafood Grill should be your next seafood stop! 🌊🦞

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Capital Seafood-Market

I recently dived into the seafood treasures at Capital Seafood-Market in Garner, and what a delightful catch it was! The freshness leapt off the counter, with shimmering fish and succulent shellfish that practically sang of the ocean. Their knowledgeable staff made selecting dinner an enjoyable adventure, offering tips and cooking suggestions that felt personalized. I couldn't resist their shrimp—plump and bursting with flavor. The market's atmosphere is both quaint and inviting, making it a perfect spot for seafood lovers. If you're on the hunt for quality seafood in Garner, Capital Seafood-Market should undoubtedly be on your list!

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Jack's Seafood Restaurant

From the moment I stepped into Jack's Seafood Restaurant, the lively atmosphere enveloped me, setting the perfect stage for a delightful culinary adventure. Their signature crab cakes are a must-try—crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside. The shrimp po' boy was a masterpiece; perfectly seasoned shrimp nestled in a fresh baguette, drizzled with their zesty remoulade. The seashell décor adds to the seaside charm, making each visit feel like a mini getaway. Service was warm and attentive, making my dining experience all the more enjoyable. If you’re in Garner, grab a seat at Jack's and dive into their seafood delights!

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Earp's Seafood Market

I had the pleasure of visiting Earp's Seafood Market and what a delightful experience it was! Nestled in the heart of Garner, this gem offers an impressive selection of fresh seafood that will make any seafood lover's heart sing. The crab legs were succulent and perfectly cooked, while the shrimp were bursting with flavor, embodying the essence of coastal dining. The staff were friendly and eager to offer recommendations that truly enhanced my visit. Earp's stands out not just for its quality, but also for the inviting atmosphere. For the best seafood fix in Garner, this market is an absolute must-visit!

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Angie's Restaurant

Angie's Restaurant in Garner is a delightful hidden gem that serves up mouthwatering seafood with a touch of homey charm. My visit began with the shrimp po’ boy, which was generously packed with plump, crispy shrimp and just the right amount of spicy sauce. The clam chowder is simply a must-try; it’s creamy, loaded with tender clams, and perfectly seasoned. For the grand finale, I indulged in their famous blackened catfish, which was grilled to perfection with a zesty kick. Overall, Angie's is a culinary treasure where the seafood is always fresh and the ambiance feels like family. Highly recommended!

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