Manchester’s best seafood restaurants

This seafood restaurant has the community at its centre. It describes itself as ‘an intimate neighbourhood restaurant’ that wants to bring the treasures of the sea to Manchester. Based in Chorlton, which is South Manchester, The Oystercatcher has both British seafood classics and dishes from other parts of the world, creating a modern mix of food. As the name suggests, the oysters available here are beautiful in taste and presentation. Starters include scallops baked in half the shell with Jerusalem artichoke puree and gremolata, as well as great squid and also some fierce tiger prawns. For the mains, there is the British classic we all know and love – fish and chips – and the adorable French speciality of ‘moules frites’ (muscles and fries). Two of our other favourite dishes are the Tandoori barbecued monkfish and the gorgeous seafood stew that includes prawns, mussels, octopus, San Marzano tomatoes, orzo pasta and sourdough bread. As you can tell, the options are vast and the ingredients are of a very high quality.

Street Urchin is a contemporary, airy restaurant with large windows and an open kitchen. Serving a fresh, modern and regularly changing blackboard menu, here you’ll discover plenty of seafood. Dishes on the specials board have included the likes of Panko English Cuttlefish and Grilled King Scallops, while the menu board has boasted Stone Bass Ceviche, Fresh Mussels and Roast Monkfish.

Samsi Japanese Restaurant in Manchester offers a relaxed dining experience with a great choice of authentic Japanese dishes, including sushi, ramen, katsu, tempura and a fantastic selection of vegetarian options. Having opened back in 1993, the restaurant has become renowned for its authentic cuisine with locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is in a great location in central Manchester, situated on Whitworth Street, close to both Manchester Piccadilly Train Station and Oxford Road Train Station, and a short walk from The Palace Theatre, O2 Ritz, Manchester’s bustling Chinatown and Gay Village, with on-street parking available right outside the restaurant. The sushi menu is great, coming in 10 piece platters. If you want to push the boat out try one of the Sushi Chef Specials, in particular the Rainbow Roll: crabstick, avocado and mayo topped with thinly sliced salmon, seabass and tuna.

Expect world famous prawns and seafood at the Jimmy’s Killer Prawns restaurant, which can be found on Liverpool Road. With a secret spice mix, relaxed atmosphere and excellent value for money, this is an excellent shout for a more casual seafood meal out. Born of a dream, the first Jimmy’s Killer Prawns opened in June 1991. The old mining house where the first Jimmy’s Killer Prawns was run from had previously been the site of a failed restaurant. When he was offered the site, Jimmy and his wife Penny fell in love with it and signed for it without knowing what they would do with it. Jimmy developed a passion for quality prawns and other seafood after travelling to many countries, mainly in Africa, to find a spice blend or seasoning that would accentuate the incredible natural flavour of prawns.

Italiana Fifty Five, located in Manchester’s Great Northern Warehouse, offers an inviting Italian dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood. This stylish restaurant has become a popular choice for seafood lovers, especially for its expertly prepared dishes. One standout is the Coda Di Rospo – wild Scottish monkfish pan fried with cherry tomatoes, mussels and king prawns, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Another tempting option is the Spaghetti Nero – squid ink spaghetti with fresh mussels, king prawns in a white wine sauce and a touch of tomato sauce; it’s perfect for seafood enthusiasts seeking authentic Italian flavours.

Italiana Fifty Five’s blend of contemporary decor and classic Italian charm makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists looking for a refined seafood dining experience​