Rome, Georgia is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. I’ve discovered some amazing restaurants in this charming city that serve up delicious ocean fare. From casual eateries to upscale dining spots, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for the best seafood in Rome, GA, you’re in luck. I’ve put together a list of six top-notch seafood restaurants that are sure to satisfy your cravings. These places offer fresh, tasty dishes that will make you feel like you’re dining by the coast, even though you’re in the heart of Georgia.

1) Sam’s Southern Eatery

I recently visited Sam’s Southern Eatery in Rome, GA, and I was impressed by their seafood offerings. The restaurant has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

The menu features a variety of Southern-style seafood dishes. I tried their fried catfish, which was crispy on the outside and perfectly flaky on the inside. The hush puppies that came with it were also delicious.

The portions at Sam’s are generous, so come hungry. I appreciated the friendly service from the staff, who were happy to answer my questions about the menu. The prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal.

Sam’s Southern Eatery is a local favorite for good reason. It’s a great choice if you’re craving tasty seafood with a Southern twist in Rome.

Rating: 4.7 (526 reviews)
Location: 152 Shorter Ave NW, Rome, GA 30165
Contact: (706) 676-5279
Website: Visit Website

2) King Claw – Juicy Seafood & Bar

I recently visited King Claw and was impressed by their Cajun-style seafood boil. The restaurant offers a wide range of fresh seafood options, including crab legs, shrimp, and crawfish.

The atmosphere is fun and vibrant, with ocean-themed decor that sets the mood for a seafood feast. I found the staff to be friendly and attentive, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience.

King Claw’s signature seasoning packs a flavorful punch. I enjoyed how they prepare the seafood daily, ensuring top quality and freshness in every dish.

The restaurant caters to both casual lunches and special dinners. I appreciated their commitment to serving the community and creating a welcoming environment for all guests.

Rating: 4.4 (384 reviews)
Location: 2204 Shorter Ave Suite 12, Rome, GA 30165
Contact: (706) 237-7268
Website: Visit Website

3) Harvest Moon Cafe

I recently visited Harvest Moon Cafe in Rome, GA, and I was impressed by their seafood offerings. The restaurant has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

Their menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes. I tried their grilled salmon, which was cooked to perfection. The flavors were rich and the fish was tender and flaky.

The service at Harvest Moon Cafe is top-notch. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal. They were also knowledgeable about the menu and helped me choose the perfect wine to pair with my dinner.

I noticed that Harvest Moon Cafe often hosts live music events. This adds a fun, lively vibe to the dining experience. It’s a great spot for a night out with friends or a casual date.

Rating: 4.4 (1700 reviews)
Location: 234 Broad St, Rome, GA 30161
Contact: (706) 292-0099
Website: Visit Website

4) Blue Fin Restaurant

I recently visited Blue Fin Restaurant and was impressed by their seafood offerings. The menu features a variety of fresh fish and shellfish prepared in different styles.

One standout dish I tried was their grilled salmon. It was cooked perfectly and had a delicious smoky flavor. The portion size was generous, and it came with tasty side dishes.

The restaurant has a casual, welcoming atmosphere that’s great for both families and date nights. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal.

Blue Fin also offers some non-seafood options for those who prefer other choices. But their seafood is definitely the star of the show and what they do best.

Rating: 4.3 (910 reviews)
Location: 727 Turner McCall Blvd NE, Rome, GA 30165
Contact: (706) 232-3317
Website: Visit Website

5) Red Lobster

I recently visited Red Lobster in Rome, GA and had a great seafood experience. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere with nautical decor that sets the mood for a seafood feast.

Their menu offers a wide variety of fresh fish, shrimp, and lobster dishes. I especially enjoyed their famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits, which are warm, cheesy, and irresistible.

The service was prompt and friendly. My server was knowledgeable about the menu and helped me choose a delicious entrée. The portions were generous, and the food was cooked to perfection.

While it’s part of a chain, this Red Lobster location maintains high quality and consistency. It’s a reliable choice for seafood lovers in Rome, GA.

Rating: 4.2 (1500 reviews)
Location: 700 Shorter Ave NW, Rome, GA 30165
Contact: (706) 234-0581
Website: Visit Website

6) John Henry’s Grill

I recently visited John Henry’s Grill in Rome, GA and had a great experience. The restaurant has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

The menu offers a variety of seafood options that are sure to please. I tried their grilled salmon, which was cooked to perfection. The fish was fresh and flavorful, with a nice char from the grill.

The service at John Henry’s Grill is top-notch. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal. They were happy to answer questions about the menu and offer recommendations.

While not exclusively a seafood restaurant, John Henry’s Grill does a great job with their seafood dishes. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a tasty seafood meal in Rome, GA.

Rating: 4.4 (449 reviews)
Location: 233 Broad St, Rome, GA 30161
Contact: (706) 237-6326
Website: Visit Website

History of Seafood Cuisine in Rome, GA

Rome’s seafood scene has deep roots in Southern tradition and local waterways. It blends coastal influences with Appalachian flavors in unique ways.

Origins and Evolution

I’ve found that Rome’s seafood cuisine began with simple catfish and trout dishes from nearby rivers. In the early 1900s, improved transportation brought coastal seafood inland. This expanded local menus.

Harvest Moon Cafe, opened in the early 2000s, marked a turning point. It introduced upscale seafood dishes to Rome. This inspired other local restaurants to elevate their seafood offerings.

In recent years, I’ve seen a surge in Cajun-style seafood boils. Places like King Claw now serve these popular communal meals.

Influence of Local Culture

I’ve noticed that Rome’s seafood cuisine reflects its Southern heritage. Fried catfish, a local favorite, appears on many menus. It’s often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.

The city’s proximity to the Coosa River impacts its seafood culture. Many restaurants source freshwater fish locally. This supports sustainable practices and connects diners to the region.

Annual events like seafood festivals have boosted interest in seafood. They showcase local chefs and introduce new seafood preparations to the community.

Rome’s diverse population has also shaped its seafood scene. I’ve seen Thai and Mediterranean restaurants add unique seafood dishes to the local culinary landscape.

What to Expect at Seafood Restaurants in Rome, GA

When dining at seafood restaurants in Rome, GA, I’ve found a mix of casual and upscale options. The menus often feature fresh catches and Southern-inspired dishes. The atmosphere tends to be relaxed, perfect for enjoying a tasty meal with family or friends.

Menu Offerings

Most seafood restaurants in Rome offer a variety of fish and shellfish options. Fried catfish, shrimp, and oysters are popular choices. Many places also serve grilled or blackened fish like salmon or tilapia.

Southern influences are clear in sides like hush puppies, coleslaw, and fried okra. Some restaurants offer seafood boils with crab legs, shrimp, and corn on the cob. For those who prefer non-seafood options, most places include chicken or steak dishes.

Appetizers often feature fried calamari, crab cakes, or seafood dips. Daily specials are common, highlighting seasonal catches or chef’s creations.

Ambiance and Experience

The atmosphere in Rome’s seafood restaurants ranges from casual to more upscale. Many have a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. I’ve seen nautical decor, fishing nets, and boat-themed elements in several places.

Service is typically friendly and attentive. Some restaurants offer outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day. Live music might be featured on certain nights, adding to the dining experience.

Weekends can be busy, so reservations might be a good idea for larger groups. Many places have full bars, offering cocktails, beer, and wine to complement your meal.