Best Cheap Seafood in Houston
Houston’s vibrant culinary scene extends to the bounty of the sea, and you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy fresh, delicious seafood.
Dive into steaming bowls of gumbo at The Gumbo Diner, a New Orleans-style favorite. For a taste of Mexico, El Charro Mexican Seafood. For some fresh oysters, Captain Tom’s Seafood and Oyster Bar is a great place to go!
These are just a taste of the many budget-friendly seafood havens waiting to be explored in Houston! Check out our guide to the best cheap seafood in Houston to help you find the best places to satisfy your seafood cravings.
Best Affordable Seafood Restaurants in Houston – Categorized by Cuisine
American Cuisine Seafood Places in Houston Texas
Top Cajun and Creole Houston Seafood Spots
Mexican and Latin American Cheap Seafood Houston Restaurants
Best Inexpensive Seafood Chains in Houston
Deal Alert – Downtown Houston Food Tour
There’s plenty for foodies to get excited about in Houston, with some excellent restaurants, tasty street food, and cuisine from all around the globe. On this walking tour, explore the north Downtown area of Houston and discover the culinary highlights of the warehouse district, Market Square Park, and Main Street. Stop along the way to sample a selection of local favorites, regional specialties, and artisan foods, including Tex-Mex, Greek, and Spanish dishes.
Get more information and check out the Downtown Houston Food Tour TODAY!!!
Quick Hit Summary of the Best and Most Affordable Seafood Restaurants in Houston
Craving a fun and interactive dining experience? Bring out your family or friends to taste all of the different seafood platters in these best and most affordable seafood restaurants in the city!
Head to Connie’s Seafood Market & Restaurant for a casual dining experience with a menu influenced by both Mexican and Asian flavors. Don’t miss their signature tableside guacamole!
You can also visit Bayou Seafood and More if you plan to go in big groups and want to be impressed with fresh catches!
If you’re looking for some comfort food, you can’t go wrong with Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen! Grab the Traditional Shrimp Cocktail and then feast on the Mississippi Catfish Opelousas or Shrimp & Chicken Tenderloins.
For our complete list of the Best Cheap Seafood in Houston, read below!
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out. Also, a few links in this article may help HoustonOnTheCheap earn a small commission if you buy something using those links.
This article is on Best Cheap Seafood in Houston. Remember to check out our comprehensive article on the Best Seafood in Houston.
Best Affordable Seafood Restaurants in Houston – American Taste
Captain Tom’s Seafood and Oyster Bar
This longstanding Houston institution serves up fresh seafood platters, fried favorites, and a raw bar with daily oyster specials.
- Must-try dishes: Their seafood gumbo is a classic, and don’t miss the opportunity to try a variety of oysters during happy hour.
- Atmosphere: Casual and lively, with a separate oyster bar area.
- Dietary restrictions: Offers limited vegetarian options and gluten-free options upon request. No vegan options.
- Insider tip: Check their website for daily specials and happy hour details.
- Location: 10501 FM 1960, Houston, TX 77070
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 12:00 am
Capt. Benny’s
Best Cheap Seafood in Houston | Image Credit: Capt. Benny’s
This hidden gem on Harrisburg Blvd is a local favorite for its fresh, no-frills seafood boils and friendly service. Grab a seat at the picnic tables and dig into a bucket of steamed shrimp, crawfish, or crab seasoned to perfection.
- Must-try dishes: The “Captain’s Platter” with a mix of shellfish and their signature seasoning is a crowd-pleaser. Don’t miss the fried Catfish Po’Boy for a taste of New Orleans.
- Atmosphere: Casual and laid-back with a focus on the food.
- Dietary restrictions: Limited vegetarian options, no vegan options.
- Insider tip: Best for lunch or a casual dinner. BYOB (bring your own beer) is allowed! Parking can be tight during peak hours, so consider carpooling or arriving early.
- Location: 12135 Murphy Rd, Stafford, TX 77477
- Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Best Seafood Houston TX for Cajun and Creole Cuisine
The Gumbo Diner
Best Cheap Seafood in Houston | Image Credit: The Gumbo Diner
This unpretentious diner offers a taste of New Orleans with an emphasis on classic Creole and Cajun cuisine, including plenty of delicious and affordable seafood options.
- Must-try dishes: Don’t miss their Seafood Gumbo or Chicken & Sausage Gumbo!
- Atmosphere: Casual and diner-style with a friendly atmosphere.
- Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available.
- Insider tip: They can get busy during peak lunch and dinner times, so be prepared for a short wait. They offer daily lunch specials for extra savings.
- Location: 3602 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday 8:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Cajun Kitchen
This lively spot offers a fun and messy dining experience with Cajun-style boils featuring seafood, sausage, vegetables, and all the fixings served in a bag on your table.
- Must-try dishes: Choose your protein, spice level, and add-ons to create your own personalized seafood boil feast!
- Atmosphere: Casual and lively with a focus on the interactive experience.
- Dietary restrictions: Limited vegetarian and vegan options.
- Insider tip: They can get busy during peak times, so be prepared for a wait. Reservations are recommended for larger groups.
- Location: 6938 Wilcrest Dr # E, Houston, TX 77072
- Hours: Daily 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Bayou Seafood and More
Best Cheap Seafood in Houston | Image Credit: Bayou Seafood & More
This Cajun restaurant offers a taste of Louisiana in Houston. They have a wide selection of seafood including boiled shrimp, crawfish, and crabs, all seasoned to perfection.
- Must-try dishes: The Lou’s gumbo is a must, and don’t miss the fried oysters!
- Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly with a focus on the food.
- Dietary restrictions: Offers some gluten-free options.
- Insider tip: Best for lunch or dinner. There’s usually a wait during peak hours, so consider going early or late.
- Location: 10040 Veterans Memorial Dr #200, Houston, TX 77038
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 11:30 am – 9:00 pm, Sunday 11:30 am – 8:00 pm
Lotus Seafood
Best Cheap Seafood in Houston | Image Credit: Lotus Seafood
This popular spot offers a variety of fried and boiled seafood dishes, all at affordable prices. They’re known for their Louisiana fried rice and “crack sauce,” a homemade Cajun garlic butter.
- Must-try dishes: The fried tilapia or their combo platters are a great way to try a variety of things.
- Atmosphere: Casual and no-frills with a focus on the food.
- Dietary restrictions: Limited vegetarian options, no vegan options. Gluten-free options available upon request.
- Insider tip: Check their website or call ahead for exact hours.
- Location: 2825 S Kirkwood Rd #300, Houston, TX 77082
- Hours: Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Best Inexpensive Seafood in Houston – Mexican and Latin American
La Sirena Seafood
This lively taqueria offers a wide variety of fresh and flavorful Mexican seafood dishes, including tacos, burritos, ceviche, and aguachiles.
- Must-try dishes: Their Flander Entero and Filete con Camarones are new to the menu. They also have a delicious live crawfish if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Atmosphere: Casual and lively with a taqueria atmosphere.
- Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian and some vegan options might be available upon request, but inquire beforehand as the menu is seafood-centric.
- Insider tip: Check their website or social media for daily specials. Be prepared for a wait during peak times, as this spot is a local favorite!
- Location: 6830 East Sam Houston Pkwy N #210, Houston, TX 77049
- Hours: Sunday – Tuesday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Wednesday – Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday 11:00 am – 11:30 pm | Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Connie’s Seafood Market and Restaurant
This established spot is a local favorite for its casual dining and menu of seafood with a Mexican or Asian twist. Grab a seat at the picnic tables and dig into a bucket of steamed shrimp, crawfish, or crab, all seasoned to perfection.
- Must-try dishes: The Tostadas, Vuelve A La Vida Cocktail, and Special Fried Rice are guaranteed delicious.
- Atmosphere: Casual and laid-back with a focus on the food.
- Dietary restrictions: Limited vegetarian options, no vegan options.
- Insider tip: Best for lunch or a casual dinner. BYOB (bring your own beer) is allowed! Parking can be tight during peak hours, so consider carpooling or arriving early.
- Location: 2525 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:30 am – 10:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:30 am – 11:00 pm
El Charro
This vibrant restaurant offers a taste of Mexico with a focus on fresh seafood. They have a large menu with something for everyone, including tacos, fajitas, and whole fish dishes.
- Must-try dishes: Servido con lechuga y tomate, Fajita Familiar
- Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly with a lively atmosphere.
- Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options are available, but vegan options might be limited.
- Insider tip: Check their website for exact hours and menus, which may vary by location.
- Location: 3801 Harrisburg Blvd, Houston, TX 77003
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday 7:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 7:00 am – 11:00 pm
Best Cheap Seafood in Houston – Seafood Chains
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
This popular Texas-based chain offers a wide variety of fresh and flavorful seafood dishes in a festive atmosphere.
- Must-try dishes: Their Crispy Salmon & Jumbo Crab or Wild-Caught Red Snapper & Jumbo Crab are a great way to sample a variety of their offerings. Don’t forget to try their VAnilla Cheesecake or Key Lime Pie to top of your night here!
- Atmosphere: Casual dining with a fun and festive atmosphere.
- Dietary restrictions: Limited vegetarian options.
- Insider tip: Reservations are recommended for larger parties or during peak times. Call ahead to check wait times.
- Location: 10499 Interstate 10 Frontage Rd, Houston, TX 77024
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
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