September 14, 2023

Dive into Gainesville’s Best Seafood Restaurants

When travelers come to Florida, one of the must-dos on their itinerary is to find the best local seafood. While many people associate great seafood with Florida’s coastal areas, Gainesville’s place in Central Florida presents a really unique opportunity for food enthusiasts to enjoy fresh seafood sourced from both the Gulf Coast and the Atlantic Ocean. With a range of offerings from succulent shrimp and crabs to oysters and fresh-caught fish, Gainesville, Florida seafood restaurants serve up a taste of Florida’s maritime bounty straight to your plate.

While it’s tempting to be drawn to specialty seafood restaurants, don’t overlook the more diverse establishments that have broad menus. There are several restaurants right here in Celebration Pointe that take immense pride in their seafood offerings, skillfully preparing each dish to perfection. Whether it’s savory shrimp and grits at The Keys or a fusion flair of premium lobster fried rice at Sensei Asian Bistro, these delectable delights show that you don’t need to go to the coast for great seafood. So, let’s dive into our top seafood picks in Celebration Pointe — you might just find that the best seafood is tucked away in the expansive menus of our beloved local eateries.

  • The Keys Grill & Piano Bar: Inspired by Key West vibes, this restaurant masterfully brings the essence of Florida Keys’ seafood right to your table with their Mile Zero menu. From their Conch Fritters to their Coconut Shrimp paired with Thai chili dipping sauce on their appetizer menu, every bite captures the vibrant flavors of the tropics. Entrees include: Calypso Mahi-Mahi, Jerk Salmon, Seafood Fra Diavolo (a chef’s seafood medley of mussels, shrimp and grouper served over fettuccine), and so much more. Bonus: if you dine in on a Friday or Saturday night, you may catch the famous dueling pianos! If you’re a Brunch lover, then you will also want to check out the Brunch menu at The Keys, which features unique options like Fish and Grits Étouffée and Crab Cake Benedict to satisfy your seafood craving.
  • Prime & Pearl: An upscale restaurant known for its steaks and high-quality seafood, Prime & Pearl serves up elegance on a plate with dishes that are as beautiful to look at as they are to eat. Share some Firecracker Shrimp or sample an array of oysters to get started and then do your best to choose among so many delicious main course options.. With a sophisticated ambiance and an extensive wine list, Prime & Pearl is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
  • Sensei Asian Bistro: This fine-dining restaurant is known for its high-quality food, artistic combinations, and attention to great taste. Sensei Asian Bistro may not immediately come to mind for Gainesville, FL seafood restaurants, but it has quickly become a beloved spot among local food enthusiasts. Starters include seafood favorites like Japanese Oysters, Ceviche, and Shrimp Cocktail, while the main menu features Miso-Glazed Chilean Sea Bass, Lobster “Paella”, XO Shrimp & Scallop stir-fry, and so much more. 
  • Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille: Don’t let the name fool you — Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille isn’t just about gridiron glory; it’s also a haven for seafood lovers. Named after football legend Steve Spurrier, this restaurant scores big points with its seafood offerings. The “Orange & Blue” shrimp appetizer is a crowd favorite, and the Macadamia Encrusted Mahi is a game-changer. You can also find “This, That & The Other” Crab & Lobster Cakes, Blackened Redfish, and “Emory & Henry” Seafood Pasta, or add surf to your turf with shrimp or crab meat enhancements. 
  • Miller’s Ale House: Sometimes you just want a casual atmosphere to enjoy traditional seafood favorites, and Miller’s Ale House offers exactly that. From beer-battered English Pub Fish & Chips to Snow Crab Legs steamed and seasoned to perfection, there are some great options on their menu. You can go for lighter fare with grilled Atlantic Salmon or a Mahi-Mahi sandwich or indulge in a feast of 35 Fried Shrimp.

The next time you’ve got a hankering for seafood, join us in Celebration Pointe for an unforgettable culinary adventure at these hotspots. Whether you’re a dedicated seafood lover who appreciates the classic dishes or an adventurous foodie on the hunt for unique flavors from the ocean’s depths, these restaurants promise an experience that will delight and satisfy every palate. From there, you can continue your fun by exploring all that we have to offer. From the beautiful Promenade that is perfect for a leisurely after-dinner stroll to the myriad of shopping opportunities and expansive events calendar, there are so many options for fun.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the best of Gainesville, FL seafood restaurants at Celebration Pointe. Savor the fresh, oceanic flavors, delight in the artful presentations, and immerse yourself in the unique culinary experiences that our local eateries have to offer. Whether it’s a casual brunch, a romantic dinner, or a celebratory feast, there’s a seafood dish waiting to make your day unforgettable. Explore, indulge, and enjoy — the best of Florida’s seafood is just a bite away!

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