Plumbers spend a lot of time behind the scenes in restaurant kitchens, giving them a unique view of which establishments maintain clean sinks, clear drains, and high standards, and after long days on the job, they know where to get a good meal. That’s how you know that these Roto-Rooter Seattle plumber-approved Seafood picks are worth your time and appetite.

#1. The Walrus and the Carpenter – Plumbers' pick for oysters and ambiance

Located in Ballard, The Walrus and the Carpenter has become a favorite among plumbers who appreciate fresh shellfish and a welcoming, low-key vibe. Locals love the relaxed yet lively atmosphere where they can actually unwind and enjoy a great meal. The space strikes a perfect balance; buzzing without being too loud, polished without feeling stuffy.

What makes this spot stand out to working pros is its consistency. The oysters are high quality, the staff is attentive, and the service runs like clockwork. "The oysters are fresh and perfectly shucked; exactly what you want every time,” says Wayne Bolton, Journeyman Plumber at Roto-Rooter Seattle.

#2. Pike Place Chowder – Best chowder and crab for families

Pike Place Chowder stands out among the best seafood spots for families in Seattle, earning recognition from diners who appreciate both exceptional food and smooth kitchen systems. This family-owned restaurant has earned its reputation through consistent excellence.

Located near Pike Place Market, it's convenient for both locals running errands and visitors exploring Seattle's most famous attraction. The kitchen maintains the same high standards that experts see in the best-run restaurants: clean, well-organized systems that prevent problems before they start. Pike Place Chowder delivers solid food with dependable service.

#3. Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar – Sustainable seafood and local flavor

Taylor Shellfish Farms began its shellfish farming in the Pacific Northwest in the 1890s and has grown into the largest producer of farmed shellfish in the U.S., growing oysters, mussels, and geoduck across numerous tidelands in Western Washington. Their commitment to environmental stewardship is clear: they're certified by Food Alliance, and their shellfish are rated "best choices" by the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch Program.

Their Seattle oyster bars, located in Queen Anne, Pioneer Square, and Capitol Hill, showcase what "tide to table" truly means. Patrons enjoy shellfish fresh from the farm, often delivered daily, in a laid-back neighborhood setting. The clean waters of Puget Sound directly impact the flavor and safety of the shellfish you're enjoying.

4. Ivar's Acres of Clams – Classic waterfront dining for locals

Ivar’s Acres of Clams has been entrenched in Seattle's waterfront dining scene since 1938, founded by Ivar Haglund. The restaurant underwent a major renovation in 2015, boosting its welcoming dining space, modernizing the kitchen, and enhancing its pier-side charm while maintaining its scenic Elliott Bay view. Known for hearty, no-fuss seafood classics, it remains beloved by locals for its reliability and generous portions. A favorite of Drew Everett, Plumbing Technician at Roto-Rooter Seattle, is the clam chowder. "It’s loaded with fresh clams and a total comfort food," says Everett.

Just as proper kitchen maintenance keeps your home ready for memorable family meals, Ivar's creates the kind of reliable dining experience where parents can relax while kids enjoy familiar favorites, making it perfect for families who want quality seafood without the fuss of more formal establishments. The restaurant's enduring popularity among locals stems from dependable performance, fair pricing, and genuine care for customer satisfaction.

#5. RockCreek Seafood & Spirits – Hidden gem for creative seafood dishes

Located in Fremont, RockCreek Seafood & Spirits has earned a local following for imaginative takes on Northwest seafood, served in a relaxed, intimate setting. The thoughtful use of regional ingredients and approachable creative style make it a favorite among those in the know.

The cozy atmosphere provides the perfect environment for unwinding after demanding workdays, while the chef's artful takes on classic dishes provide pleasant surprises. This combination makes RockCreek ideal for special celebrations and date nights.

#6. Elliott's Oyster House – Top spot for crab and chowder on the pier

Since opening in 1975, Elliott’s Oyster House has become a staple destination on Pier 56. Celebrated for its expansive oyster bar and solid reputation for fresh, flavorful seafood, it offers waterfront dining with sweeping Elliott Bay views. "The variety of oysters here is incredible, and you can really taste the freshness," noted Frank Jones, Plumbing Manager at Roto-Rooter Seattle.

The extensive selection of 24-26 Pacific Northwest oyster varieties showcases a commitment to quality sourcing. Recognition from publications like Food and Wine confirms this waterfront institution delivers dependable excellence that keeps customers returning season after season.

#7. The Crab Pot – Family-style feasts and hands-on fun

The Crab Pot offers a playful, hands-on dining experience where seafood boils are poured right onto paper-covered tables for lively, interactive feasts. This casual, family-friendly format is ideal for group celebrations and shared meals.

While food quality can vary, the consensus is that the experience itself creates lasting memories beyond individual dishes. The communal dining format and waterfront location make it perfect for milestone celebrations where atmosphere matters as much as food.

#8. Westward waterfront with Mediterranean flair

Located on the north shore of Lake Union, Westward serves sustainable seafood and imaginative Pacific Coast marine fare with a Mediterranean twist. The restaurant features cheery beachside seating, an outdoor fire pit, and stunning views of the lake and city skyline. What sets this spot apart is its unique accessibility—guests can arrive by foot, vehicle, boat, or kayak and tie up to their dock.

The restaurant's water-inspired menu changes daily to take advantage of the freshest available ingredients, including an extensive selection of local oysters. The spacious outdoor patio with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit creates the perfect setting for unwinding after demanding workdays, making it an ideal spot for both casual dinners and special celebrations.

#9. Sushi Kashiba – World-class sushi from a master chef

Located next to Pike Place Market, Sushi Kashiba represents the pinnacle of Japanese fine dining in Seattle. Chef Shiro Kashiba, a three-time James Beard Award nominee, trained under legendary sushi master Jiro Ono in Tokyo before introducing Seattle to its first sushi bar in 1970. The restaurant offers both à la carte options and the coveted omakase experience at the chef's counter, where only 14 seats are available each night.

What working professionals respect about this establishment is the unwavering commitment to perfection that mirrors their own attention to detail. Every piece of sushi is crafted with precise technique using the freshest local fish and delicacies from around the world. The restaurant's dedication to excellence—from sourcing to preparation to presentation—creates an unforgettable dining experience that justifies its reputation as Seattle's finest sushi destination.

#10. Ray's Boathouse – Iconic Northwest dining since 1973

A Seattle icon for over 50 years, Ray's Boathouse has defined Northwest seafood dining from its waterfront location in Ballard overlooking Shilshole Bay and the Olympic Mountains. The restaurant is legendary for both its sustainable sourcing practices and spectacular sunsets viewed from the dining room and deck. Ray's helped create the distinctive regional cuisine built around fresh Pacific Northwest seafood that Seattle is known for today.

The two-level restaurant offers both fine dining in the main Boathouse and casual options in the upstairs Café, giving guests flexibility for any occasion. The establishment has a long-standing reputation for reliability and quality. From wild salmon and sablefish to fresh oysters and Dungeness crab, Ray's continues to set the standard for what exceptional Northwest seafood should be. "Their seafood is cooked to perfection every time,” says Josh Callon, General Manager at Roto-Rooter Seattle.

Enjoy Seattle's best seafood with peace of mind: Leave the plumbing to the pros

Seattle’s seafood scene is even better when you can enjoy it without worrying about what’s happening behind the scenes at home. Whether you're rinsing shellfish after a Pike Place run or tackling post-crab-boil cleanup, your plumbing system plays a huge role in making those meals enjoyable and stress-free. The same attention to detail that keeps top seafood kitchens running smoothly should apply to your own home, especially when it comes to drains, water heaters, and waste disposal.

Just like the restaurants plumbers recommend for their reliable service and clean operations, your home deserves the same level of expert care. Whether you’re hosting a seafood feast or just want peace of mind knowing everything’s flowing like it should, partnering with professionals ensures your system is ready for anything.

Roto-Rooter Seattle offers comprehensive plumbing services tailored to Seattle homes, from routine drain cleaning and kitchen plumbing tune-ups to fast emergency repairs. Let our experienced technicians help you protect your home so you can focus on the food and the company. Call 8007686911 and schedule your service today to experience the confidence of having Seattle’s trusted plumbing pros on your side.