Discover the Seafood Gems of Lincoln Square

In addition to its range of cultural institutions and retail stores, Lincoln Square boasts a diverse culinary scene. Amidst the hustle and bustle, seafood enthusiasts can enjoy two dining destinations, Atlantic Grill and El Fish Marisqueria, each with its own spin on seafood.

From the Monte Carlo Hospitality Group and Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Salvatore, Atlantic Grill (50 West 65th Street between Broadway and Central Park West) brings a Mediterranean flare to its dishes. The restaurant spotlights seafood from the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, some of which you will find showcased on ice or in an aquarium as part of the “catch of the day” program. Whether you like your seafood as sashimi or ceviche or prefer it grilled or whole-roasted, there is no shortage of options available at Atlantic Grill. If you’re not in the mood for seafood, the restaurant also offers the finest cuts of meat and local seasonal produce. In 2021, the restaurant re-opened after an eight-month revamp. The dining room is now more intimate, with decor nodding to the restaurant’s history and the neighborhood. You can book your table at Atlantic Grill on Open Table. Once you’ve tasted Chef Salvatore’s seafood, consider trying his French haute cuisine and traditional Italian cooking at Rampoldi (49 W 64th Street), also a Monte Carlo Hospitality Group restaurant. 

Just a couple blocks away, El Fish Marisqueria (155 Amsterdam Avenue at W 67th Street) invites diners to embark on a culinary voyage to Mexico. Acclaimed Chef Julian Medina actually did take a trip to Ensenada, the fishing capital of Mexico, to explore the fish and farmer’s markets. The trip inspired the innovative menu that combines new and traditional dishes from the region. With dishes like Clam Chowder Tortilla Soup, each bite at El Fish Marisqueria is a burst of flavor that transports diners to sun-drenched shores and bustling marketplaces - no travel necessary. Even the dining room embodies the ocean with calming blue accents and an old-fashioned ship with its mahogany and brass vintage bar. You can make a reservation on Resy to taste the Mexican-inspired seafood for yourself. Restaurateur Louis Skibar, the new owner of Old John’s Diner (148 West 67th Street at Amsterdam Avenue), located just around the corner, is part of the team that brought El Fish Marisqueria to Lincoln Square.

If you're craving classic seafood fare with a Mediterranean twist or yearning for the bold flavors of Mexico, Atlantic Grill and El Fish Marisqueria certainly have plenty to satisfy your yen. For even more seafood, consider stopping at P.J. Clarke's (44 W 63rd St between Broadway and Amsterdam), The Smith (1900 Broadway at W 63rd St), Épicerie Boulud (1900 Broadway at W 64th Street), The Grand Tier Restaurant (30 Lincoln Center), Nougatine & The Terrace at Jean-Georges (1 Central Park West), or The Shops at Columbus (Bad Roman, Porter House, Bar Masa, and Center Bar) where you can find a fine selection of oysters. You'll also find excellent fish dishes – from shrimp cocktail to tuna tartare - at restaurants across the district (for ideas, check out our Neighborhood Guide).

So, the next time you find yourself in Lincoln Square, be sure to indulge in some of the many seafood gems the district has to offer.

Photo Credit: Atlantic Grill