14 Seafood Restaurants on Cape Cod Locals Swear By for Fresh Catch

Cape Cod has long been famous for its incredible seafood scene, where the catch of the day truly was swimming just hours before hitting your plate. While tourists flock to the well-advertised spots, locals have their own treasured eateries where the seafood is fresher, the atmosphere more authentic, and the flavors unmistakably Cape Cod. From humble clam shacks to upscale dining with ocean views, these 14 seafood spots are where Cape Codders go when they’re craving the best seafood on the peninsula.

1. KREAM N KONE, West Dennis

A beloved institution since 1953, this no-frills seafood spot serves some of the crispiest fried clams and freshest fish sandwiches on the Cape. The golden-brown seafood platters arrive piled high, with french fries and coleslaw providing the perfect accompaniments.

Lines form quickly during summer months, but locals know the wait is worthwhile for their famous clam strips and whole-belly clams. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for casual dining after a beach day. Their homemade tartar sauce has a secret recipe that perfectly complements their seafood offerings. Cash only, so come prepared!

2. Captain Parker’s Pub, West Yarmouth

Award-winning chowder defines this cozy pub-style restaurant that locals frequent year-round. Their thick, creamy New England clam chowder has won the Cape Cod Chowder Festival numerous times, becoming legendary among seafood enthusiasts.

Beyond the famous chowder, the menu features perfectly prepared lobster rolls, stuffed quahogs, and fresh fish entrees. The nautical-themed interior creates a quintessential Cape Cod atmosphere with boat models and fishing memorabilia adorning the walls. Reasonable prices and generous portions keep locals coming back, especially during off-season when they can avoid the summer crowds.

3. Spanky’s Clam Shack and Seaside Saloon, Hyannis

Perched along Hyannis Harbor, Spanky’s offers breathtaking water views alongside their exceptional seafood menu. The outdoor deck becomes prime real estate during summer months as diners watch boats coming and going while enjoying fried clam plates and stuffed lobsters.

Their raw bar features locally harvested oysters and littleneck clams served with zesty cocktail sauce and mignonette. The clam chowder consistently ranks among the Cape’s best, with a perfect balance of clams, potatoes, and creamy broth.

Signature cocktails like their Waterfront Rum Punch complement the seafood perfectly, making this a favorite happy hour spot for locals.

4. The Lobster Pot, Provincetown

Iconic neon signage marks this Provincetown landmark that’s been serving exceptional seafood since 1943. Situated at the very tip of Cape Cod, the restaurant offers panoramic harbor views through its large windows while serving Portuguese-inspired seafood dishes. Local fishermen deliver their daily catches directly to the kitchen, ensuring supreme freshness.

The lobster rolls come overflowing with sweet meat, while specialties like Portuguese kale soup and seafood-stuffed lobster reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage. Two floors of dining space accommodate the crowds, but locals know to visit during shoulder season for a more relaxed experience.

5. The Brewster Fish House, Brewster

Sophisticated yet unpretentious, this charming restaurant elevates seafood to fine dining status without losing its Cape Cod soul. Housed in a converted antique home, the intimate dining room creates the perfect backdrop for their meticulously prepared seafood dishes.

The menu changes seasonally, highlighting whatever’s freshest from local waters. Their pan-roasted cod with brown butter and their dayboat scallops consistently impress even the most discerning local palates.

Unlike many Cape restaurants, reservations are possible here, making it a favorite for special occasions among year-round residents who appreciate the thoughtful wine list and house-made desserts.

6. Seafood Sam’s, Sandwich

Family-friendly and unfussy, Seafood Sam’s has been a local staple since 1974. The casual atmosphere welcomes sandy feet and hungry appetites after long beach days, serving up enormous portions of freshly fried seafood. Their fish and chips feature locally caught cod in a light, crispy batter that keeps locals coming back year after year. The menu extends beyond fried options with fresh steamers, broiled seafood plates, and their famous stuffed quahogs.

Kids love watching the kitchen staff in action through the open prep area. The affordable prices and consistent quality make this a regular stop for Cape Cod families.

7. Lobster Trap Restaurant & Fish Market, Bourne

Combining a working fish market with a full-service restaurant creates an experience where freshness is guaranteed. Located at the Cape’s entrance in Bourne, locals shop for seafood to cook at home or grab a table to enjoy it prepared by expert chefs.

The twin lobster special draws crowds of regulars, featuring two perfectly steamed lobsters at market price. Their raw bar showcases oysters harvested that morning from nearby waters, while the fish market section displays an impressive array of local catches.

The casual dining room maintains a maritime atmosphere with fishing nets and buoys decorating the walls. Weekday lunch specials make this a favorite for local workers.

8. Brax Landing Restaurant, Harwich Port

Spectacular sunset views over Saquatucket Harbor make this waterfront gem a favorite among locals seeking both scenery and superb seafood. The expansive deck fills quickly on summer evenings as people gather to watch the fishing boats return while enjoying classic Cape Cod fare.

Their signature broiled seafood platter showcases the kitchen’s ability to let fresh ingredients shine without excessive seasoning. Lobster rolls come in both hot buttered and cold mayo styles, satisfying purists of both preparations.

The cozy bar area becomes a community gathering spot during winter months when locals catch up over bowls of fish stew and glasses of local craft beer.

9. Sesuit Harbor Cafe, Dennis

Hidden along a working harbor, this unassuming shack serves some of the Cape’s most authentic seafood experiences. Diners eat at picnic tables overlooking the water, often bringing their own wine or beer to complement the fresh-off-the-boat offerings. The lobster roll here is legendary—overflowing with meat and minimal filler, served with a side of harbor views.

Morning fishermen deliver their catches directly to the kitchen, ensuring peak freshness for the daily specials. Cash-only and seasonal, this no-frills spot embodies the genuine Cape Cod experience that locals treasure. The BYOB policy and communal seating create a friendly atmosphere where strangers often become friends.

10. Fishermen’s View Seafood Market & Restaurant, Sandwich

Founded by commercial fishermen, this dual-purpose establishment brings boat-to-table dining to a whole new level. The restaurant’s enormous windows showcase panoramic views of the Cape Cod Canal, where you might spot the very boats that caught your dinner.

The menu celebrates local seafood through both traditional preparations and creative innovations. Their signature seafood tower features locally harvested shellfish arranged beautifully for sharing. The attached market allows diners to purchase the same fresh fish they just enjoyed for home cooking. Local fishing families frequent this spot, which speaks volumes about its authenticity and quality.

11. Moby Dick’s Restaurant, Wellfleet

Summer traditions center around this seasonal BYOB spot where picnic tables fill with families cracking open lobsters and sharing stories. Operating since 1983, this Outer Cape institution maintains the relaxed atmosphere that defines Cape Cod dining. The steamers arrive piping hot in their own broth with melted butter for dipping. Lobsters come in all sizes, from singles to multi-pound monsters that challenge even the heartiest appetites.

The ordering system—write your selections on paper bags—adds to the casual charm that keeps locals returning despite the summer crowds. Their homemade key lime pie offers the perfect sweet finish to a seafood feast.

12. The Ocean House Restaurant, Dennis Port

Upscale dining meets beachfront views at this sophisticated restaurant where locals celebrate special occasions. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame Nantucket Sound, creating a dramatic backdrop for innovative seafood dishes that blend global influences with Cape Cod ingredients.

The chef’s tasting menu showcases seasonal highlights like seared local scallops with creative accompaniments and day-boat fish prepared with precision. The raw bar features artistic presentations of oysters from various Cape Cod bays, each with distinct flavor profiles.

Sunset reservations are coveted for the spectacular views that complement the refined cuisine. The extensive wine list features selections specifically chosen to pair with seafood.

13. The Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House, South Yarmouth

Generations of Cape Codders have made memories at this Bass River institution, operating since 1936. The waterfront setting provides a quintessential backdrop for enjoying their famous chowder, which follows the same recipe used for decades. Fishing boats pass by as diners enjoy heaping plates of fried whole-belly clams and broiled day-boat scallops.

The retro interior preserves the classic Cape Cod atmosphere that’s increasingly rare as more modern establishments appear. Their fish sandwich—simple but perfect—showcases locally caught cod on a grilled roll with homemade tartar sauce. Affordable prices and generous portions keep local families coming back throughout the season.

14. Mac’s Fish House Provincetown, Provincetown

Modern and sleek yet deeply connected to Provincetown’s fishing heritage, Mac’s brings sophisticated seafood preparations to the Cape’s tip. The bustling raw bar showcases the day’s oyster selections, while the open kitchen allows diners to watch chefs prepare their meals with precision. Locals appreciate the creative daily specials that often feature underutilized but delicious local species.

The sushi bar offers another dimension to Cape seafood dining, with rolls featuring freshly caught fish and innovative combinations. The lively bar scene makes this a popular gathering spot for year-round residents during quieter seasons. Their fish tacos, featuring whatever’s freshest that day, maintain a devoted following among P-town locals.