I Can’t Go Back to Red Lobster After Finding These 8 Lesser-Known Seafood Chains

When craving a delicious seafood dinner, Red Lobster may be one of the first restaurants to consider. While this isn't surprising, (have you tried their biscuits?) Red Lobster isn't the only seafood restaurant around.

The seafood industry is a huge part of the U.S. economy, even though about 90% of the seafood we consume comes from overseas. Red Lobster was previously the leading chain based on annual sales, but lost its top position in 2024 following bankruptcy and a major sales decline.There are definitely some things we love about Red Lobster, but there are also a lot of other chains that our family has a personal preference for.

In this post, we will look at eight lesser-known seafood chains that we've started to visit instead of Red Lobster. (These 8 Steakhouses Don't Get as Much Press But Are Way Better Than Texas Roadhouse)

This post was updated in June 2025 to include updated data about seafood restaurants and their popularity.

Joe's Crab Shack's motto is "Peace, Love, & Crabs." Its first location opened in 1991 in Houston, Texas. While Joe's Crab Shack has closed many locations and now operates only about 21 locations as of 2025, it remains a notable seafood chain in the U.S.

At Joe's Crab Shack, customers can enjoy the new crab royalty boil, hushpuppies, crab cakes, or lobster tails. Not in the mood for seafood? No problem. Order the pasta alfredo or Joe's top sirloin to enjoy.

If you have never seen the movie "Forrest Gump" featuring Tom Hanks, then you are sorely missing out. Bubba Gump Shrimp Company is inspired by the hit movie. The restaurant got its start in 1996 and since then has been bringing to life the classics straight from the film.

It is at the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company that customers can enjoy different varieties of shrimp, like coconut shrimp and shrimp scampi. Additionally, if you aren't a fan of shrimp, you can order an array of different options, such as burgers and baby back ribs. If you have never been there before, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company is worth a visit.

It was in 1961 that two men, Buzzy Bent and Joey Cabell, had the idea to start the Chart House. While the locations are impressive now, at first, it just began as one small diner. Their idea was to offer customers two things. Great food and a beautiful view. As of 2025, 64 years after its founding in 1961, Chart House is still succeeding with this endeavor.

It is at the Chart House where customers can order an array of delicious seafood, fit for a beautiful view. The menu includes dishes such as spiced ahi, herb-crusted and slow-roasted prime rib, and shellfish bouillabaisse. If you are adventurous with food, Chart House is the perfect place to visit.

Captain D's may not be as fancy as Red Lobster, but it's still worth putting on the list. It's similar in taste to Long John Silver's; however, some boast that it's even better. For a decent price, you can stop in and grab delicious food that can satisfy your seafood cravings.

At Captain D's, customers can enjoy classic seafood meals like the flounder, shrimp, and fries or the 2-piece fish and fries. However, if you aren't in the mood for seafood, there are other excellent options. Try the loaded potato soup or chicken tenders.

Bonefish Grill lives up to its unique name by providing customers with a top-notch experience. It's a step up from Captain D's with the atmosphere and more options. Additionally, Bonefish Grill offers catering for that special occasion, whether you're under the stars or close to the ocean, you can elevate your next event.

Bonefish Grill offers customers delicious seafood options such as the tuna poke bowl, cod imperial and the parmesan-crusted rainbow trout. But if you would rather have land based, and not sea-based dishes, this restaurant has those too! These options include dishes like chicken marsala, filet mignon, and the angler's sirloin steak. There are a wide range of options for every type of tastebuds.

Long John Silver's is similar to Captain D's in that it is a fast-food restaurant. While the cost can be a bit on the pricy side if you happen to have a family, Long John Silver's is a favorite of many. Some do say that their foods tend to be a bit more greasy or oily than Captain D's, but to some, that makes it better.

The dishes available at Long John Silver's include your typical fish and fries combos. Additionally, you can order chicken and fish, or just plain chicken. Feeling in the mood for a sandwich? They have those too!

Do you want to be transported to the Bahamas? The Bahama Breeze restaurant is the next best thing. Here, the focus is on providing customers with an energetic atmosphere, which includes having live music.

Customers can also taste new recipes, tropical drinks, and Caribbean-inspired recipes. On the menu, you will find starters like chicken Tostons, beef empanadas, and crispy conch fritters. For your entree, delight your taste buds with the shrimp pineapple bowl, the tequila sunburn glazed salmon, or the jerk shrimp pasta. Adventure is the name of the game at Bahama Breeze when it comes to delicious and unique flavors and tastes.

When it comes to seafood restaurants, Red Lobster may be the first one that comes to mind. However, several lesser-known seafood chains are just as good and deserve some recognition. While not all of them are considered fine dining, like say Captain D's, they still serve up delicious and quality food that will make their customers want to come back again and again.