Best Chinese Restaurants with Seafood in Boston: Top Picks for Seafood Lovers

If you're a seafood enthusiast living in or visiting Boston, you're in for a treat. Boston's coastal location gives it access to some of the freshest seafood in the country, and the city's Chinese restaurants certainly don't hold back when it comes to incorporating those oceanic flavors into their menus. From delicate crab dishes to spicy shrimp and rich fish recipes, Boston’s Chinese seafood offerings are as diverse as they are delicious. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Chinese restaurants with seafood in Boston, where you can indulge in the freshest catches and classic Chinese seafood dishes.

1. Chinatown's Legendary Seafood Spots

Boston's Chinatown is home to some of the city's best Chinese restaurants, and seafood is often a star feature of the menu. These places are revered for their authentic flavors, large variety of seafood dishes, and ability to cater to both casual diners and those looking for something a bit more refined. Chinatown is where you'll find fresh catches that are expertly prepared with bold seasonings and traditional Chinese cooking methods.

One of the Best: China Pearl Restaurant

When it comes to seafood, China Pearl Restaurant is a must-visit. Known for its dim sum and robust seafood options, China Pearl offers a vast selection of dishes, from crispy soft-shell crab to mouthwatering lobster in ginger and scallion sauce. The restaurant's bustling atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both casual meals and group dining experiences. If you're looking for a seafood-heavy experience, the restaurant’s extensive menu won't disappoint. In fact, their signature “seafood on ice” platter offers a variety of the freshest catches, including shrimp, oysters, and clams.

Seafood Specialties at China Pearl

Some of their standout seafood dishes include:

Lobster Cantonese: A flavorful dish with lobster stir-fried in a savory garlic and ginger sauce.
Salt and Pepper Shrimp: Lightly battered and seasoned with a perfect balance of spice and salt.
Crab with Black Bean Sauce: Crab cooked to perfection in a rich, bold black bean sauce that packs a punch.

2. The Fusion of Modern and Traditional Seafood at Moon Villa

For a modern take on traditional Chinese seafood dishes, Moon Villa in Boston offers a unique dining experience. Known for its high-quality ingredients and attention to detail, this restaurant combines traditional Chinese cooking methods with a contemporary twist. Their seafood menu is extensive and offers a variety of seafood dishes cooked in ways that are meant to highlight the freshness of the ingredients.

Seafood Dishes at Moon Villa

Here are some dishes that stand out at Moon Villa:

Sautéed Lobster with Garlic and Basil: This dish features succulent lobster sautéed with garlic, basil, and a splash of soy sauce, creating a bold and fragrant combination.
Chili Crab: A fan favorite, this dish features crab in a spicy, sweet, and savory chili sauce that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.
Fish Fillets with Tofu and Spicy Broth: This dish combines delicate fish fillets with soft tofu, all cooked in a spicy, tangy broth that perfectly complements the natural flavors of the seafood.

3. A Hidden Gem: Jade Garden

If you're in the mood for a more intimate dining experience, Jade Garden is a hidden gem known for its amazing seafood dishes. This cozy spot serves up traditional Chinese fare with an emphasis on seafood, offering an array of dishes that highlight the variety and richness of Boston's freshest ocean offerings. The restaurant is especially popular for its expertly prepared fish dishes, from steaming whole fish to grilled fish served with aromatic herbs and spices.

Jade Garden's Popular Seafood Choices

Some dishes at Jade Garden that really highlight the restaurant’s skill in working with seafood include:

Whole Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions: A classic dish in Chinese cuisine, this dish features a whole fish steamed to perfection with ginger, scallions, and a light soy-based sauce.
Grilled Fish with Black Bean Sauce: This dish brings a smoky and savory flavor, with a beautiful balance of fish and spices.
Salted Fish and Chicken Hot Pot: A unique and flavorful hot pot that brings together salted fish and tender chicken in a warming broth.

4. New England Flavors at New Shanghai

New Shanghai is another Chinese restaurant in Boston that takes full advantage of the city’s fresh seafood offerings. Known for its New England-style Chinese cuisine, New Shanghai offers a delightful combination of flavors from both the East and the West. While the menu is extensive, their seafood dishes—particularly those with a local twist—are a standout. The restaurant offers an array of seafood-centric dishes that make the most of the best catches from the nearby ocean.

Seafood Specialties at New Shanghai

If you decide to visit New Shanghai, make sure to try the following dishes:

New England Lobster Stir-Fry: Stir-fried lobster mixed with a blend of fresh vegetables and served in a light soy-based sauce.
Steamed Clams with Garlic and Wine: A simple but flavorful dish that lets the sweetness of the clams shine through with a punch of garlic and white wine.
Seafood Noodles: Noodles stir-fried with a mix of shrimp, squid, and fish, all combined with a delicious blend of sauces.

5. The Family-Friendly Experience at The Gourmet Dumpling House

For a family-friendly dining option with incredible seafood choices, look no further than The Gourmet Dumpling House in Boston’s Chinatown. Although it's known for its dumplings, the seafood menu is equally impressive. This restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out with family or friends. The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and prepared with the same attention to detail as all of the restaurant's offerings.

Seafood Highlights at The Gourmet Dumpling House

Some of the restaurant’s standout seafood dishes include:

Shrimp Dumplings: These dumplings are filled with fresh shrimp and cooked to a perfect, juicy consistency.
Scallops with Garlic Sauce: A simple yet flavorful dish that lets the natural sweetness of the scallops take center stage.
Steamed Fish with Soy Sauce: A classic Chinese dish that features a whole fish steamed to perfection and topped with soy sauce, ginger, and green onions.

Boston's Chinese restaurants offer a variety of exceptional seafood dishes that highlight the city's access to the freshest catches. Whether you're craving lobster, crab, shrimp, or fish, these restaurants provide a unique combination of traditional Chinese flavors with Boston's seafood excellence. So, if you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, don't miss out on these amazing spots in Boston.

If you're looking for more fantastic Chinese cuisine, check out Chinese Food for expert recommendations and the best dining experiences in Boston and beyond.