Top 5 Budget-Friendly Seafood Joints

Discover the best affordable seafood spots in New York's vibrant Lower East Side

Fresh Seafood Without Breaking the Bank

The Lower East Side is known for its diverse culinary scene, and seafood lovers are in for a treat. We've scoured the neighborhood to bring you the top 5 spots where you can enjoy delicious, fresh seafood without emptying your wallet.

What Makes Our List

Each restaurant was selected based on quality of food, affordability, authenticity, and local reputation. All main dishes are under $20, offering exceptional value for NYC seafood.

NYC Guide
The Lobster Shack
BEST VALUE

The Lobster Shack

4.7 (1,243 reviews)

A no-frills spot serving some of the freshest lobster rolls in the city at unbeatable prices. Their secret? Daily deliveries from Maine.

Why It's On Our List:

$15 lobster rolls that rival those twice the price, generous portions, and a fun, casual atmosphere.

Specialties:

Classic Lobster Roll, Clam Chowder, Fried Shrimp Basket

Contact:

(212) 555-1234

info@lobstershacknyc.com

Address:

124 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002

Nearby Attractions:

Essex Market, The Tenement Museum, Katz's Delicatessen

Ceviche Corner

Ceviche Corner

4.9 (892 reviews)

Authentic Peruvian seafood with a modern twist. Their ceviches are legendary, featuring the freshest fish marinated in citrus perfection.

Why It's On Our List:

$12 ceviche portions that are large enough to share, vibrant flavors, and excellent happy hour deals.

Specialties:

Classic Ceviche, Tiradito, Causa Rellena

Contact:

(212) 555-2345

hello@cevichecorner.com

Address:

85 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

Nearby Attractions:

The Museum at Eldridge Street, Economy Candy, Russ & Daughters

Oyster Dive
HAPPY HOUR

Oyster Dive

4.8 (1,507 reviews)

A cozy basement spot specializing in oysters from both coasts, served with creative mignonettes and housemade hot sauces.

Why It's On Our List:

$1 oysters during happy hour (4-6pm daily), knowledgeable staff, and an impressive selection of craft beers.

Specialties:

East Coast Oysters, Oyster Po' Boy, Seafood Tower

Contact:

(212) 555-3456

dive@oysterdive.com

Address:

210 Allen St, New York, NY 10002

Nearby Attractions:

The Mercury Lounge, The Earth Room, The New Museum

Fish & Co.

Fish & Co.

4.3 (756 reviews)

British-style fish and chips done right, with sustainably sourced cod and a secret-recipe batter that's light and crispy.

Why It's On Our List:

$14 fish and chips that could rival any London pub, plus mushy peas and curry sauce that transport you across the pond.

Specialties:

Classic Fish & Chips, Scallop Pie, Prawn Cocktail

Contact:

(212) 555-4567

eat@fishandconyc.com

Address:

156 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002

Nearby Attractions:

Pianos, The Box, The Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural Center

Calamari Cafe
VEGAN OPTIONS

Calamari Cafe

4.6 (1,089 reviews)

A family-run Italian seafood spot where everything is made from scratch, from the pasta to the tomato sauce to the fried calamari.

Why It's On Our List:

$18 linguine with clams that's packed with flavor (and clams!), plus they offer vegan "calamari" made from mushrooms.

Specialties:

Fried Calamari, Linguine alle Vongole, Seafood Risotto

Contact:

(212) 555-5678

info@calamaricafe.com

Address:

97 Stanton St, New York, NY 10002

Nearby Attractions:

The DL, The Hole, The Slipper Room

Seafood Spots Map

Explore all our recommended seafood joints in the Lower East Side on this interactive map.

Pro Tips for Seafood in LES

Happy Hour Hunting

Many LES seafood spots offer incredible happy hour deals. Oyster Dive's $1 oysters and Ceviche Corner's $5 pisco sours are must-tries.

Weekday Visits

For the best experience with shorter waits, visit these spots on weekdays. Weekends can get crowded, especially at The Lobster Shack.

Shareable Plates

Portions are generous at these spots. Consider sharing plates to try more items and save money.

Public Transport

The LES is well-served by the F, J, M, and Z trains. Parking is challenging, so public transport is recommended.

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