0 Followers
Astoria Seafood
Master Critic Review
Astoria Seafood
8.6
A high-volume, pick-your-fish counter that turns into a loud, communal feast once your bag hits the kitchen for grilling or frying. The best move is to choose one whole fish plus two shellfish items, then keep sauces minimal so the freshness stays in focus.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled whole branzino, Grilled octopus, Fried calamari
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: You choose the seafood market-style, then they cook it to order.
Who should go: Groups who want a loud, hands-on seafood feast
When to visit: Right at opening for the smoothest wait
What to order: Whole fish grilled, octopus, calamari
Insider tip: Pick one whole fish plus two shellfish items—skip over-ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited spots and can be tough after 6pm—budget extra time or use a rideshare.
Dress code: Very casual—jeans, tees, and sneakers are the norm. Wear something you don’t mind smelling like grilled seafood.
Noise level: Loud and energetic—expect to raise your voice; this is not a quiet conversation spot.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes is common, especially if you arrive after opening
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait if you go early; builds quickly by mid-afternoon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—mostly salads or simple sides; not a strong pick for vegetarians.
Vegan options: No—this is a seafood-first experience with almost no vegan-friendly options.
Gluten-free options: Yes with care—grilled fish and shellfish are gluten-free, but avoid fried items due to shared oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re already comfortable—it's loud, messy, and chaotic, which can be fun but isn’t ideal for getting to know someone quietly.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Show up right at opening for the shortest wait and fastest table turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for older kids who enjoy seafood and noise; no kids menu and the crowd can feel overwhelming for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Hands-on, market-style seafood feasts where freshness, value, and communal energy matter more than service polish.
Skip if: You want a calm meal, attentive table service, or strong non-seafood options—choose a traditional seafood restaurant instead.