New Bern’s seafood scene is a celebration of flavor, culture, and history. Nestled along the North Carolina coast, this charming town boasts a rich fishing tradition, bringing fresh, local catches to dining tables for generations.
Whether you’re a foodie, a curious local, or a traveler seeking authentic flavors, New Bern’s seafood offerings promise an unforgettable culinary experience.
We’ve rounded up five standout seafood restaurants in New Bern that combine quality, ambiance, and rave-worthy flavors. Hungry yet? Let’s explore!
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What Makes These Seafood Spots Stand Out
To compile this list, we considered several factors to ensure each restaurant delivers a fantastic seafood experience. We focused on the freshness of ingredients, menu variety, ambiance, and glowing customer reviews. These five establishments excel in showcasing the very best of New Bern’s seafood, each with its unique twist.
1. Captain Ratty’s Seafood & Steakhouse
đź“Ť Location: 202 Middle Street, New Bern, NC
Key Feature
Captain Ratty’s seamlessly blends casual dining with fine flavors. From their signature crab cakes to blackened swordfish, every dish highlights the freshness of coastal ingredients.
A Slice of History
This iconic seafood and steakhouse offers more than just food—it’s a part of New Bern’s culinary story. Situated in a historic downtown building, it charms diners with its old-world atmosphere.
Price Range
Lunch: $$
Dinner: $$$
Best Time to Visit
Stop by at lunch for their lunch specials or enjoy a romantic dinner upstairs in their rooftop dining area.
Customer Shoutout
“Best crab cakes I’ve had in North Carolina! Fresh, flavorful, and absolutely divine.” — Charles M., Wilmington, NC
2. MJ’s Raw Bar & Grille
đź“Ť Location: 216 Middle Street, New Bern, NC
Key Feature
Famed for its oyster bar, MJ’s serves seafood the way locals love it—fresh, unpretentious, and packed with flavor. Their shrimp and grits? A top pick.
Casual Meets Comfort
Whether you’re popping in for raw oysters or their renowned clam chowder, MJ’s offers a welcoming vibe that feels like home.
Price Range
Lunch & Dinner: $$
Best Time to Visit
Perfect for happy hour gatherings, thanks to their full-service bar and laid-back ambiance.
Customer Shoutout
“MJ’s shrimp and grits are to die for. Each bite tasted like the South on a plate!” — Samantha R., Greenville, NC
3. Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant
đź“Ť Location: 100 Pollock Street, New Bern, NC
Key Feature
Persimmons pairs upscale seafood dishes with breathtaking waterfront views, making it an unbeatable spot for special occasions. Don’t miss their pan-seared scallops or catch of the day.
Sophistication Meets Sustainability
This restaurant prides itself on sourcing local and sustainable ingredients, ensuring every bite is both delicious and environmentally responsible.
Price Range
Lunch: $$
Dinner: $$$$
Best Time to Visit
Golden hour for dinner on the deck—watching the sunset while enjoying your meal is truly magical.
Customer Shoutout
“The view and the food at Persimmons are unparalleled. The scallops were heavenly, and the staff made us feel so welcome.” — Rachel P., Cary, NC
4. The Chelsea
đź“Ť Location: 335 Middle Street, New Bern, NC
Key Feature
A fusion of Southern charm and innovative flavors, The Chelsea features a rotating menu with highlights like bourbon-glazed salmon and Cajun-style shrimp pasta.
A Staple of New Bern
With decades of service, The Chelsea is a larger-than-life establishment known for its exceptional service and memorable entrees.
Price Range
Lunch & Dinner: $$-$$$
Best Time to Visit
Dinner is the perfect time to savor their upscale seafood plates in a cozy yet elegant setting.
Customer Shoutout
“The Chelsea offers a top-notch dining experience—every dish feels like it’s made with love!” — Andrea H., New Bern, NC
5. Baker’s Kitchen
đź“Ť Location: 227 Middle Street, New Bern, NC
Key Feature
Known for its fluffy butter syrup pancakes, Baker’s Kitchen surprises with its hidden seafood gems, like the fried shrimp platter and rich seafood bisque.
A Local Favorite
This charming café-restaurant hybrid serves heart-warming meals that celebrate local flavors.
Price Range
Breakfast & Lunch: $$
Best Time to Visit
Start your day with a seafood-infused brunch or swing by midday for a hearty lunch.
Customer Shoutout
“Their seafood bisque was the surprise of the trip—creamy, rich, and packed with fresh shrimp and crab!” — Laura C., Raleigh, NC
Gear Up for a Seafood Adventure
New Bern is a seafood lover’s paradise, with diverse restaurants offering everything from casual classics to elevated dining experiences. Whether you’re drawn to Captain Ratty’s historic charm, Persimmons’ riverside elegance, or MJ’s classic raw bar vibe, there’s something here for every type of eater.
Dive into the flavors of New Bern today—or better yet, share your favorite spots in the comments. We’d love to hear your pick for the best seafood in town! 🌊🍤
