Seafood is an indulgent pleasure for most people but all of that buttery, decadent dishes come at a price. And, if they're not coming with a price tag, then the seafood you've encountered is either not worth charging for or it's just that local and abundant. While many people prefer to cook their own or head to high-end, privately-owned dining establishments to crack their crab legs, chain restaurants are bringing the competition.
Gone are the days of battered and quick-fried fish and baked clams that are 90% breadcrumbs. Now, some chains are serving up dishes that rival those made in well-known restaurants, and all for a price that's lower than the average seafood bill anywhere else. You might sacrifice some variety and seasonal options but when it comes down to it, isn't it nice to get a meal that won't break the bank and is still delicious? If you're wondering which seafood chains are doing lobster dinner right, here's your answer.
Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill got its start back in 2000 and while it's been around for more than two decades, it's still been overshadowed by the likes of other chains. If you happen to live near one, though, consider yourself lucky - it's safe to say that this upscale chain is serving up the best seafood of any other in the country.
The atmosphere isn't necessarily formal but upon walking in, it doesn't immediately feel like a high-end restaurant where your bill will be well into the $200 range. It's casual enough that you can feel comfortable wearing jeans and a nice shirt, and the menu is a blend of contemporary and classic.
Truluck's
Truluck's, specifically, is serving up some of the best lobster of any seafood chain out there. If you don't believe us then simply check the reviews! The atmosphere in this restaurant is more fine-dining than most which is reassuring, considering the most expensive item on the menu is exactly what they do well.
It comes in many forms from lobster bisque to lobster mashed potatoes (you read that right) which makes for an absolutely divine experience.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
The great thing about going to Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is that even if you're conflicted, there's still a chance to try some of the chain's best offerings. Thanks to the Pappadeaux Platter, diners have a chance to sample shrimp, oysters, crawfish, crab, and even catfish.
As opposed to many other seafood chains, Pappadeaux's atmosphere is laid-back and casual and feels like a place you could kick back and relax at. The food is simple and made well with many of its dishes sporting a spicy Cajun flair.
Captain D's
Believe it or not, this drive-thru has got it going on. You wouldn't typically peg a fast-food chain to also have seafood that's good enough to make a list of the best chain seafood restaurants, but here we are. The thing about Captain D's is that not only can you get a great, satisfying meal at a quick clip, but you also have the variety that comes with a full-service restaurant.
Of course, there are fried options on the menu but there are also options for blackened or grilled fish, catfish, crab cakes, and lobster rolls. Customers can also finish their meal off with a dessert that, quite honestly, doesn't even taste like it's from a fast-food chain.
Legal Seafoods
The cool thing about this East Coast seafood chain is that it actually started out as a New England fish market. From Cambridge, Massachusetts as a small fish market, the Legal Seafoods chain has now expanded through several states including New Jersey, Virginia, Rhode Island, and even Pennsylvania.
The menu is diverse and wholly New England-inspired, with options for practically any kind of classic fish dish you could want. The New England clam chowder is, of course, a favorite, but the menu has everything from succulent sea scallops to meaty swordfish to suit your seafood craving.
McCormick & Schmick's
While McCormick % Schmick's is usually known for being a steakhouse, their seafood is also part of the main attraction. Along with getting the perfect surf 'n turf dinner, guests can try upscale dishes that aren't usually found in chain restaurants, let alone most seafood chains.
This is one restaurant that won't feel like you're dining at a replica, with high-quality ingredients in dishes that are balanced and perfectly cooked. A fan favorite is the cedar roasted Atlantic salmon which is second to none in terms of seafood restaurants, with flavors that are out-of-this-world fresh.