Pier 51 | Fiery Crab | Fish Market | Shrimp Boat | Helen’s Hot Chicken | The Flipside | Island Grill
Rock Hill, SC, is home to some delicious seafood restaurants that offer everything from fresh seafood and fried oysters to seafood boils and crab legs. Whether you’re feeling up for a perfect seafood buffet, a cozy fish spot, or a casual seafood market experience, I´ll hook you up with the best places to go in Rock Hill.
Dive into Flavor: Signature Seafood Dishes You Can’t Miss
Get ready to roll because the seafood scene has lots of options with restaurants that are sure to please every type of seafood lover. No matter what I’m craving, there’s a seafood restaurant in Rock Hill that will fit the bill. Some of the signature dishes that I love going back to include Pier 51’s perfectly crispy Calabash Shrimp, Fiery Crab’s bold Cajun lobster platters, and Island Grill’s jerk shrimp with full-on Caribbean spices. The Flipside’s creamy, comforting shrimp and grits also deliver an unforgettable Southern seafood experience each and every time. So, let’s jump in and check out my picks for Rock Hill’s best seafood restaurants.
Pier 51
Location: – 3921 Mt Gallant Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Pier 51 is locally owned and serves up some of the best seafood in Rock Hill, SC. There are always fresh catches on the menu crafted with a delectable Southern twist, making customers come back for more. The seafood is consistently delicious with a full and varied menu that welcomes you to hang out and eat your fill. They’ve got you covered with large seafood plates and tantalizing apps and sides like onion rings and coleslaw that are the icing on the cake.
What to Order: I like to go for the Seafood Platter—it’s loaded with fried shrimp, oysters, and fish and is the seafood version of comfort food. The crab legs are also a local favorite, and their portion sizes are great for sharing. We also like to get something fried to balance things out, and this is the best place to get fried oysters in Rock Hill. Or, if you want something lighter, try the Calabash Shrimp, a lightly battered and crispy Southern favorite from Calabash, North Carolina.
The Vibe
Pier 51 is a simple, laid-back, family-friendly place that has a real community feel with its open and roomy classic dining room area, making it perfect for big family get-togethers or large friend groups.
You know it’s a staple in Rock Hill when you see it’s popular among the older locals, and that’s Pier 51’s vibe in a nutshell. Straight up, no frills, good seafood.
Fiery Crab
Location: – 1022 Camden Ave, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Fiery Crab brings the heat to Rock Hill’s seafood restaurant scene with a Cajun-inspired menu, and from its name, you can probably guess that it’s also one of the best restaurants to get crab in Rock Hill. Plus, it’s also to serve some of the best seafood boil in Rock Hill with their all-day boil specials. The generous portions and seafood house platters, including fresh lobster tails and shrimp, make it an excellent choice for indulging in new yet classic spicy flavors. But if you’d rather pass on the spice, no worries, you’ve got options! You can choose the spice level or opt for something without spice and get the garlic butter; their menu’s got it all.
What to Order: The House Platter is a standout choice, packed with crab legs, lobster, and shrimp, all seasoned with their signature bold Cajun mix. It’s a flavorful feast that captures the essence of Fiery Crab’s spicy approach to Southern seafood. Or, when you’re feeling adventurous, order the fried catfish; it’s delicious. Sundays are a good time to go if you’re interested in sipping mimosas with your seafood, you can take advantage of their all-day $2 mimosa special.
The Vibe
Fiery Crab is a nautical-themed, relaxed, and casual space that’s kid-friendly and perfect for hanging out with friends or family. The unique circular shape of the restaurant adds to its charm, giving every table a view of the action.
The rounded dining area is best for bigger groups or a party of four, but you can always plop down at the bar and enjoy the local game on TV and chat up the friendly staff.
Fish Market
Location: – 990 Market St, Fort Mill, SC 29708
Fish Market Bar and Grill is technically a bit outside Rock Hill, but it’s an easy, quick drive and 100% worth it, especially if you’re looking for a more refined, upscale seafood dining experience. This place is my top pick for date nights or when I’m in the mood for authentic, fresh seafood with some sophistication. The decadence is amplified by their highly skilled chefs and pro mixologists. They really know how to elevate classic fish dishes with unique flavorings and beautiful presentations.
What to Order: The Chilean Sea Bass over mushroom risotto is hands down one of the best seafood dishes I’ve had in the Rock Hill area. It’s perfectly cooked, with a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. For something a bit more Southern, try the Shrimp and Grits—it’s creamy, savory, and just downright comforting. Then there’s the Caribbean Unicorn fish, which someone always happily goes for with its fresh mango salsa. Add the lobster mac and cheese or hot crab dip appetizers, and you’re good to go.
The Vibe
Fish Market has a charming, elegant feel with its floral centerpieces, dark wooden decor, and relaxed atmosphere – plus the classic and regal white pillared entrance brings instant Southern charm.
I love sitting on their patio when the weather’s nice—it’s a perfect spot for people-watching while enjoying fresh oysters or beautifully presented seafood dishes.
The staff is always attentive and hospitable, making every visit a great night out.
Shrimp Boat
Location: – 1411 Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Shrimp Boat is a Rock Hill institution that’s been around forever, and it’s still the place I go when I want straight-up delicious fried seafood in Rock Hill, with fair prices. It’s the definition of a classic southern seafood restaurant, from the name to its simple interior.
Locals love that they serve everything from fried fish to hush puppies that have kept their authentic seafood and time-honored flavor.
What to Order: The Seafood Platter because is the best way to get a bit of everything: fried fish, shrimp, scallops, and deviled crab. And you have to try the shrimp boat. But honestly, it’s their fried chicken that keeps me coming back—it’s crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, and so we usually go for a combo of some seafood and chicken when we’re at the Boat.
The Vibe
Every time I walk into Shrimp Boat, I’m hit with a wave of nostalgia or familiarity. It’s got that old-school diner vibe with a focus on the good seafood they’re serving. Red-checkered paper with every plate. Nothing has changed over the years, it’s down home all the way.
Helen´s Hot Chicken
Location: – 706 Mt Gallant Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Helen’s Hot Chicken isn’t just about the chicken—we’re talking Seafood platters with catfish, plus you’ll find Fried Okra, Shrimp, and Whiting on the menu. Their daily meal deals are considered some of the best in Rock Hill, and Helen’s is reminiscent of a roadside seafood shack you’d find up in Maine but with way more of a Southern twist. I stumbled upon this seafood restaurant by accident, but now it’s one of my top spots for a hot catfish sandwich that’s got just the right amount of heat. The food is always fresh and flavorful, and its suburban adjacent location is a convenient place to grab some seafood.
What to Order: The Hot Catfish Sandwich is a standout, especially if you like your seafood with a bit of spice. The Seasoned Fries make a good side, as do the Wings and Fried Okra. Plus, they’ve got other chicken dishes on the menu, too, for those in your group who aren’t into seafood.
The Vibe
Helen’s is always buzzing with energy and people. Its small, no-frills setting gives it a hidden gem vibe, with some seating and a lot of takeout orders. There’s something about their cooking that makes this place unique.
It’s a great choice for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner when you’re in the mood for bold and flavorful seafood in Rock Hill, and it’s easy to see the pride they pour into every dish.
Flipside
Location: – 129 Caldwell St, Rock Hill, SC 29730
While the Flipside, tucked in the heart of downtown, may not be marketed as a seafood restaurant, don’t let that fool you—it’s a great stop for fresh seafood in Rock Hill, SC. Impressively crafted dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, their shrimp and grits dish is one of my personal favorites, bursting with rich, Southern flavor. They’ve also got Pan-Roasted Salmon and Pecan Trout, in addition to a full menu of culinary delights that offer a wide selection of good eats.
What to Order: The Carolina Trout stuffed with crab, served with risotto and asparagus, is an absolute treasure. It’s rich, flavorful, and filling. For a lighter seafood option, the Pecan-Crusted Salmon is beautifully done or try the Brown Butter Roasted Sea Scallops. And if you’re in the mood for a Southern classic, their Shrimp and Grits hit the spot every time.
The Vibe
The Flipside is warm and inviting, with a relaxed vibe and lots of seating that makes it perfect for everything from a quick lunch to a leisurely seafood dinner. It seamlessly combines Southern charm with contemporary touches, creating a sun-soaked, inviting space perfect for unwinding.
With natural light streaming in and cozy booths tucked throughout, it’s a great spot to settle in.
Island Grill
Location: – 465 S Herlong Ave, Rock Hill, SC 29732
The Island Grill & Pub brings the flavors of the Caribbean to fish restaurants in Rock Hill with a menu that’s packed with the island classics and delicious seafood dishes like jerk shrimp that are loaded with rich, spicy goodness. Tucked away in a little strip mall, you’d never expect the variety of shrimp dish options on their menu, but they deliver excellent seafood with large portions and great prices.
What to Order: The Jerk Shrimp is spicy, smoky, and perfectly cooked. The Honey Sriracha shrimp is the perfect sweet and spicy combo. Add in a side of plantains, and you’ve got yourself the whole package. Order the Seafood Soup if you’re there on a Saturday, or try the Seafood Pasta if you’re extra hungry.
The Vibe
Island Grill & Pub, with its reggae vibrations reminiscent of a Caribbean island vacation with vibrant colors, a lively atmosphere, and a tiki bar vibe, make it a fun spot for casual dining and island-themed cocktails.
The space is bright and welcoming, inviting you to kick back and enjoy some flavorful seafood options during your meal.
Rock Hill, SC, is home to some unique and fabulous seafood restaurants offering everything from fresh catches and fried oysters to seafood boils and crab legs, scallops, and lobster. Each spot offers its own spin on seafood, from Southern-style fried classics to spiced, flavorful Caribbean dishes that make every meal stand out. Dive into the best seafood restaurants in Rock Hill and discover your new favorite spot!
