The Absolute Best Seafood Restaurants in Clayton [Updated 2026]

Each spot on my list has been carefully tasted and savored, from casual dives to upscale dining experiences that make your taste buds dance. I’ve scoured the town, indulging in everything from fresh oysters to mouthwatering shrimp tacos, and believe me, the flavors here are nothing short of incredible.

With twelve top-notch locations reviewed, you can trust that my recommendations come from genuine experiences and a deep love for the ocean's bounty. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these gems are sure to impress and satisfy any seafood craving you might have. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Clayton’s seafood scene!

Mannings Restaurant

Highlights
Stunning rooftop weddings
Customizable menu options
Delicious food & drinks
Attentive wait staff
Affordable event space

Mannings Restaurant in Clayton is nothing short of a culinary gem! Nestled among the vibrant local scene, this haven for seafood lovers offers an undeniable charm. As soon as I stepped inside, the atmosphere felt inviting, thanks in part to the attentive wait staff who greeted me with warm smiles and a genuine desire to please.

Now, let’s talk about the menu—it's a delightful mix that allows for customizable options to suit every palate. I treated myself to their signature seafood platter, and every bite was a celebration of flavor! Each dish was cooked to perfection, showcasing the freshest catches.

Mannings also doubles as a venue for stunning rooftop weddings, making it quite versatile. Can you imagine exchanging vows while enjoying breathtaking views? For someone looking to host an event without breaking the bank, the affordable event space here is hard to beat.

Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a special celebration, Mannings Restaurant is worth the visit. With delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a sprinkle of sophisticated charm, it’s truly a standout in Clayton’s seafood scene!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Cary.

Captain Stanley's Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Authentic Southern seafood
Friendly and attentive service
Clean and organized atmosphere
Fair pricing for generous portions
Popular among locals

Captain Stanley's Seafood Restaurant is an inviting gem nestled in Clayton, where the essence of authentic Southern seafood truly shines. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was greeted with a warm smile from the friendly staff, which set the tone for my delightful experience. The atmosphere is clean and well-organized, making it a perfect spot for families or a casual night out with friends.

One of the standout features of Captain Stanley's is its generous portions at fair prices. I indulged in their signature shrimp and grits, which were nothing short of spectacular—plump shrimp nestled in a creamy, flavorful sauce that danced on my palate. It's no wonder why this place is a favorite among locals!

The attentive service ensured that I never felt overlooked, making me feel right at home. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or just looking for a comforting meal, Captain Stanley's delivers with flair! If you find yourself in Clayton, don’t miss this spot—your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Morrisville.

St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar

Highlights
Fantastic raw oyster happy hour
Friendly and attentive service
Inviting ambiance and music
Unique drink offerings
Tasty frog legs and crab claws

Stepping into St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar felt like being transported to a coastal oasis, right in the heart of Clayton. The ambiance is lively yet inviting, complete with a soothing background of jazz that makes you want to linger a little longer. With the tantalizing scent of the sea wafting through the air, I can confidently say this spot has mastered the art of seafood dining.

Their raw oyster happy hour is a must-try — I savored a selection of fresh, briny oysters that were nothing short of heavenly. The servers were delightful and attentive, making recommendations that only enhanced my experience. I also indulged in their unique offering of frog legs and crab claws, which were flavorful and cooked to perfection.

I couldn’t resist sampling some of their creative cocktails, which paired perfectly with my meal. Each sip was a refreshing adventure that complemented the seafood beautifully. If you’re on the hunt for the best seafood experience in Clayton, I highly recommend diving into this gem. St. Roch truly captures the essence of coastal cuisine with a charming twist!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Raleigh.

Crab Seafood House

At Crab Seafood House, I was swept away by the charm and vibrant atmosphere. The alaskan king crab legs were a true highlight—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The friendly staff made the experience even more enjoyable, promptly recommending their zesty crab cakes, which were a delightful surprise! I relished the buttery garlic sauce that danced on my palette. The cozy ambiance was perfect for a casual evening or a special gathering. If you're a seafood lover, this gem is a must-visit in Clayton. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Garner.

Vinson's Pub + Eatery

Vinson's Pub + Eatery is a delightful surprise nestled in the heart of Clayton. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a warm ambiance and friendly staff that set the stage for a fantastic culinary adventure. As a seafood aficionado, I couldn’t resist trying their famous fish tacos, which were bursting with flavor and topped with a zesty salsa that danced on my palate. The clam chowder served as a hearty starter—creamy and comforting. With an extensive drink menu to complement the dishes, Vinson's is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in great seafood with a cozy vibe.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Durham.

Kobe Japanese Steak House

At Kobe Japanese Steak House, I was whisked away on a delightful culinary adventure. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement as skilled chefs perform teppanyaki magic right before your eyes. I savored the fresh sushi rolls and tempura shrimp, which were nothing short of impeccable. Each bite of the seafood was tender and bursting with flavor, showcasing the kitchen's mastery. The presentation was as stunning as the taste, making it a feast for both the eyes and palate. If you're in Clayton and craving an interactive dining experience, Kobe is a must-try—a true gem for seafood enthusiasts!

You might also want to check out the best healthy restaurants in Raleigh.

Tavern 42

Tavern 42 is a hidden gem in Clayton that left me hooked from the first bite! Their grilled salmon is cooked to perfection, flaunting a crispy skin that holds in all that flavorful juiciness. The atmosphere buzzed with a warm, inviting vibe, while the staff was attentive and eager to share their favorites. I was particularly impressed by the clam chowder, which had a delightful creaminess and a fragrant mix of herbs and spices. Whether you're indulging in a fresh catch of the day or a classic lobster roll, Tavern 42 should definitely make your seafood bucket list!

You might also want to check out the best patio restaurants in Raleigh.

Clayton Seafood Market LLC

I had a delightful time at Clayton Seafood Market LLC, where the atmosphere buzzed with a warm, coastal charm. The fresh catch of the day was a highlight; the grilled salmon danced on my palate with its crispy skin and succulent interior. Not to mention, the oysters were a treat—plump and briny, they whisked me straight to the ocean! The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, eager to help me navigate the menu. If you’re craving seafood that feels like it was just pulled from the water, this delightful gem in Clayton should be at the top of your list!

You might also want to check out the best healthy restaurants in Cary.

Jack's Seafood Restaurant

Jack's Seafood Restaurant in Clayton is a delightful find! From the moment I stepped in, the atmosphere was alive with a coastal charm that instantly transported me to the shore. The clam chowder was rich and creamy, with just the right amount of seasoning. Their grilled salmon was perfectly cooked, flaky, and paired with a zesty lemon butter sauce that danced on my taste buds. Service was attentive but not intrusive, making my dining experience all the more enjoyable. If you're in the mood for fresh seafood with a pinch of flair, Jack's will definitely reel you in!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Durham.

Cape Fear Seafood Company

Cape Fear Seafood Company in Clayton is a delightful gem that overflows with freshness and charm! From the moment I walked in, the coastal vibes enveloped me. I savored their shrimp and grits, perfectly seasoned and utterly indulgent! The menu offers a variety of options, from succulent fish tacos to heavenly crab cakes that melt in your mouth. The atmosphere is both inviting and lively, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings or casual dinners. If you’re on the hunt for superb seafood, Cape Fear is a shore thing you won’t want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best asian restaurants in Cary.

Clayton Steakhouse

Clayton Steakhouse is surprisingly delightful, proving that not all steakhouses shy away from seafood! I indulged in their pan-seared scallops, which were perfectly cooked, boasting a delicate sear and a rich, buttery sauce that elevated the dish. The chowder had a delightful creaminess, seasoned just right, making it a must-try. While the ambiance leans towards classic steakhouse charm, the seafood selection surprisingly shines. If you're seeking a hearty meal with oceanic flair, this place won’t disappoint. On my next visit, I’m excited to explore more from their seafood offerings. A true gem in Clayton's culinary scene!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Cary.

Carolina Fish Fry Co.

Nestled in the heart of Clayton, Carolina Fish Fry Co. is a delightful treasure for seafood lovers. From the moment I stepped in, the aroma of fried goodness enveloped me, teasing my taste buds. I indulged in their signature fish fry, which was perfectly crispy outside and tender inside—pure bliss! The hushpuppies were a delightful companion, adding a sweet crunch to each bite. The friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere made my visit even more enjoyable. If you’re after fresh seafood served with Southern charm, look no further. Carolina Fish Fry Co. is a must-visit gem in Clayton!

You might also want to check out the best asian restaurants in Chapel Hill.