0 Followers
Fish Tales Gourmet Seafood Market
Master Critic Review
Fish Tales Gourmet Seafood Market
8.1
Fish Tales is a family-run Cobble Hill seafood market founded in 1996 that also turns out a steady stream of prepared lunches and catering trays. Beyond pristine fillets and shellfish, regulars rely on it for salmon plates, chowders and crab cakes that eat like a low-key seafood counter.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled teriyaki salmon, Maryland-style crab cakes, New England clam chowder
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood seafood market where fresh fish shares space with hearty, ready-to-eat plates.
Who should go: Home cooks and locals wanting pristine seafood plus easy lunches.
When to visit: Midday for freshest selection and hot prepared lunch options.
What to order: Grilled teriyaki salmon, Maryland crab cakes, New England clam chowder.
Insider tip: Call ahead for popular prepared items; they often sell out before dinner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Court and Bergen is possible but limited; meters turn over quickly during midday errand traffic.
Dress code: Casual — this is a market-counter environment where everyday attire is perfectly appropriate.
Noise level: Low to moderate, driven mostly by lunchtime foot traffic and counter service activity.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — prepared items are grab-and-go and the market closes before typical dinner rush hours.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, though popular hot plates may sell out by early afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few sides or salads may work, but this is fundamentally a seafood market.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect only simple veg-based sides; not a strong destination for vegan meals.
Gluten-free options: Several prepared seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible due to shared prep spaces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — it’s a market with takeaway plates rather than a dine-in ambience suited for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no tables or reservations; expect takeaway, quick counter service, or stop-in shopping for fresh seafood.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick stops — families often come in for fresh fish or prepared items, though there is no seating or extended mealtime setup.
Best For
Better for: Exceptionally fresh fillets, reliable crab cakes, and quick seafood lunches that feel homemade rather than restaurant-driven.
Skip if: You want a sit-down seafood meal, cocktail service, waterfront views, or a more atmospheric dining experience.