Northwest Arkansas is known for trails, art, and great dining—but many visitors are surprised by how good the seafood is here.
Talented chefs, strong regional suppliers, and daily deliveries of fresh fish help local kitchens serve high-quality seafood year-round. Even freshwater favorites like catfish—traditionally grouped with seafood on Southern menus—play a big role in the region’s fish houses and restaurants.
Do yourself a favor and try one of the standout spots featured on the Top 10 Seafood Restaurants in Northwest Arkansas below.
BENTONVILLE
Blu Fish House $$
607 SE 5th St, (479) 273-5400
Blu is your place for the absolute freshest seafood in the area. The fish is flown in daily and has that just-caught flavor. Blu is a fish market where you can select your seafood from ice filled cases or large live fish tanks, and you may also dine in or order takeout. This is fun place to visit with out-of-town guests or the kids.
Flying Fish $$
109 NW 2nd St, (479) 657-6300
If you enjoy fine fish, catfish or ocean fish, in a laid back lakefront atmosphere, you will love the Flying Fish. Selections include catfish, shrimp, oysters, crab, gumbo, Po’ Boys, shrimp cocktail, salmon, trout, and tilapia. Baskets include hush puppies and fries. The main selections are fresh fried catfish and shrimp and oysters, though the restaurant also offers a wide selection of grilled fish, shrimp cocktail, snow crab legs, burgers, chicken and crawfish. Beer, margaritas and wine also are served.
River Grille $$$
1003 McClain Rd, (479) 271-4141
Upscale, and well worth the price. Features steaks grilled to perfection, chicken and a good selection of seafood including halibut, a fresh catch (flown in daily), fresh Atlantic Salmon and Alaskan King Crab Legs. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings. You can expect a great time every time at the River Grille.
EUREKA SPRINGS
Angler’s Lake & Steak $$
14581 US-62, (479) 253-4004
Casual lakeside restaurant serving fried catfish, haddock sandwiches, shrimp, salmon, and Southern sides including hushpuppies, fries, coleslaw, onion rings, and fried okra. Known for generous portions, scenic lake views, and value-friendly kids and senior menus that make it an easy stop near Eureka Springs.
FAYETTEVILLE
Cafe Rue Orleans – Cajun & Seafood $$
1150 N College Ave, (479) 443-2777
Casual restaurant offering classic New Orleans-style seafood dishes including such favorites as Shrimp Pontchartrain, Crawfish Etouffee and Eggplant Napoleon. Easy laid-back atmosphere, authentic flavors and impeccable service make this an area favorite. Make it a point to go there for Sunday brunch, your tastebuds will thank you for it.
Catfish Hole $$
4127 W Wedington Dr, (479) 521-7008
Family-friendly Southern restaurant known for fried catfish, shrimp, and steak plates served with homemade fries, slaw, and refilled hushpuppies. Large dining room, fast service, and generous portions make it a long-time Fayetteville favorite for classic catfish house meals and casual gatherings.
ROGERS
Bonefish Grill $$
3201 Market Street, (479) 273-0916
Outstanding Rogers seafood restaurant featuring market-fresh seafood cooked over a wood-burning grill. Enjoys rave reviews from many repeat patrons stemming from excellent, top of the line service and excellent food. Seafood items include Chilean Seabass, Atlantic Salmon, Coldwater Lobster Tails and so much more. Try the Bang Bang Shrimp Appetizer.
Catfish John’s $10–$20
601 W Hudson Rd, (479) 636-3303
Unfussy, long-running restaurant serving Southern-style fried catfish with classic sides like hushpuppies, fries, and coleslaw. A Rogers staple since 1988, known for casual dining, generous portions, and traditional Arkansas catfish house meals in a simple, family-friendly setting.
Fish City Grill $$
Pinnacle Hills Promenade, 2203 South Promenade Blvd #3110
(479) 636-8833
Prides itself on being your neighborhood seafood joint. Specializing in great food and friendly, attentive wait staff, Fish City Grill offers NWA residents and visitors from around the world some of the best tasting seafood to be found anywhere. Even Florida Gulf folks love this eatery. Try the Shrimpapalooza, if it is available, or the try the Serafin’s Fish Tacos.
Mermaids Seafood $$
2011 S Promenade Blvd #440, (479) 443-3737
Upscale restaurant, known for its whimsical decor and Chef Todd’s expertly prepared and superb seafood cuisine featuring many seafood items including salmon, shrimp, fish of the day and scallops. A full bar run by experienced, creative mixologists, ensures that your beverages taste delightful every time. Live music provides a relaxing, entertaining atmosphere.
HONORABLE MENTION
Chick’n Headz $10–$20
201 SW 14th St #107, (479) 435-9511
Casual Bentonville spot known for crispy wings and well-seasoned fried catfish served with sides like hushpuppies, coleslaw, and sweet potato waffle fries. Generous portions, fresh-from-the-kitchen meals, and friendly service have made it a local favorite for Southern comfort food.