5 Must-Try Seafood Restaurants in Tennessee—Yes, Even Without a Coast

Tennessee might not have ocean waves lapping at its borders, but that hasn’t stopped it from serving up some seriously impressive seafood. From Nashville to the Smoky Mountains, talented chefs and passionate restaurant owners have made it their mission to bring the freshest catches inland.

Whether you’re craving buttery crab legs, crispy fried catfish, or raw oysters on the half shell, the Volunteer State has you covered with flavors that rival any coastal spot.

1. Chesapeake’s Seafood & Raw Bar — Gatlinburg

Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Chesapeake’s brings the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay straight to East Tennessee. Locals and tourists alike flock here for oysters so fresh they taste like they were just plucked from the water that morning. The crab cakes are legendary—golden, crispy on the outside, and packed with jumbo lump crab meat that doesn’t hide behind fillers or heavy breading.

The menu reads like a love letter to coastal dining, featuring clam chowder, shrimp scampi, and lobster tails prepared with care and respect for the ingredients. Even the sides, from creamy coleslaw to buttery corn on the cob, complement the seafood perfectly without stealing the show.

Atmosphere matters here too. The rustic, nautical decor transports diners away from the mountains and straight to a harborside eatery. Friendly servers know the menu inside and out and happily guide first-timers through the options.

2. The Optimist — Nashville

Nashville’s food scene has exploded in recent years, and seafood lovers have taken notice. While The Optimist is originally an Atlanta institution, its influence has inspired a wave of chef-driven seafood restaurants across Music City that prioritize freshness and innovative preparation.

Picture this: perfectly seared scallops with a delicate crust, grilled whole fish seasoned simply to let the natural flavors shine, and oyster selections that change daily based on what’s available. The chefs behind these kitchens work closely with trusted suppliers to ensure every piece of fish meets their exacting standards. It’s not just about flying in seafood—it’s about respecting it.

For anyone who thinks landlocked cities can’t compete with coastal dining, this Nashville establishment proves otherwise. It has turned Tennessee into a legitimate seafood destination, one perfectly cooked plate at a time.

3. The Juicy Seafood — Smyrna

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and get messy—that’s the whole point at The Juicy Seafood. This boil-style restaurant has earned thousands of glowing reviews for one simple reason: it knows how to throw a seafood party. Generous portions of shrimp, crab legs, crawfish, and mussels arrive at your table in plastic bags, tossed in bold, finger-licking sauces that range from mild garlic butter to fiery Cajun spice.

The experience is interactive and fun. You’ll dump your seafood out onto the paper-covered table, crack shells with your hands, and savor every spicy, buttery bite. It’s casual, loud, and unapologetically indulgent—exactly what a seafood boil should be.

Choose your seafood, pick your spice level, and add extras like corn, potatoes, and sausage to round out the meal. The staff is patient and helpful, especially if you’re new to the boil scene.

The Juicy Seafood isn’t trying to be fancy, and that’s its superpower. It’s about good food, good times, and leaving with a satisfied smile (and probably sauce on your shirt).

4. Storming Crab — Madison

Madison’s Storming Crab has built a loyal following thanks to its commitment to bold flavors and serious portions. Seafood boils are the star of the show here, loaded with snow crab legs, jumbo shrimp, and plump crawfish that arrive swimming in your choice of sauce. The customizable spice levels mean everyone from heat-seekers to spice-shy diners can find their perfect match.

What locals love most is the consistency. Every visit delivers the same high-quality seafood and generous servings that make you feel like you’re getting serious value for your money. The sauces—whether you go for lemon pepper, garlic butter, or the signature Storming Crab blend—coat every piece of seafood evenly, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

The atmosphere strikes a balance between lively and comfortable. Families, couples, and groups of friends all feel at home here, especially once the food hits the table and the real fun begins. Cracking shells, dipping bread in leftover sauce, and comparing spice tolerance levels become part of the experience.

Storming Crab also offers fried baskets for those who prefer their seafood crispy rather than boiled, along with sides like hush puppies and fries.

5. Catfish Cabin — Jackson

Some restaurants chase trends, but Catfish Cabin sticks to what it does best: serving up crispy, golden fried catfish that’s been winning hearts for decades. This Jackson institution has become a Tennessee treasure, beloved for its no-frills approach and consistently delicious Southern comfort food. The catfish fillets are perfectly seasoned, fried to a satisfying crunch, and flaky on the inside—exactly how it should be.

Tradition runs deep here. Families have been coming to Catfish Cabin for generations, passing down their love for the hush puppies, tangy coleslaw, and creamy mac and cheese that accompany every meal. The sides aren’t just afterthoughts—they’re stars in their own right, prepared with the same care and attention as the main event.

Walking into Catfish Cabin feels like stepping into a piece of Tennessee history. The decor is simple and homey, the service is warm and welcoming, and the portions are generous enough to send you home happy. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows the regulars by name and newcomers are treated like old friends.

For anyone seeking authentic Southern seafood done the Tennessee way, Catfish Cabin is a must-visit. It’s proof that sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones, made with love and served with a smile.