The Cape has some of the freshest seafood, so it is no surprise that they also have some of the best restaurants with the most amazing raw bars. After a long day in the sun fresh shucked oysters, shrimp, crabmeat and homemade cocktail sauce are what dreams are made of in New England.

We found the 11 best restaurants on Cape Cod to enjoy some delicious fresh local seafood this summer or really anytime of year!

Originally Published: March 16, 2022

Top Raw Bars on Cape Cod

Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar (Eastham)

This landmark spot has been around for over 40 years! They are an award-winning clam shack and have some of the best seafood. Get here early – there are often lines. They offer top notch fried seafood and an incredible raw bar selection.

Spanky’s Clam Shack and Seaside Saloon (Hyannis)

This special spot is located on the water and is an experience in itself. Everything is locally caught and fresh. They have a great seafood selection and prepare it from raw to fried with perfection.

The Black Cat (Shack Out Back Raw Bar) Hyannis

This outdoor oasis is open in the summer and is a hidden gem not to miss! They have insanely fresh seafood, an amazing raw bar and live entertainment.

Impudent Oyster (Chatham)

This iconic restaurant has been open and serving the freshest seafood for over 40 years. The menu is locally caught. The vibe is laid back. They offer a great raw bar selection and great service. 

Wicked Oyster (Wellfleet)

This historic restaurant offers a variety of fresh, local and seasonal dishes. The interior is eclectic with local art to look at while you enjoy the incredible raw seafood and other inventive dishes.

Pearl (Wellfleet Harbor)

Pearl is one of Cape Cod’s premier waterfront dining destinations. They offer fresh local seafood, an incredible raw bar and a live music seafood happy hour. They have amazing views of Wellfleet Harbor, which also makes this a great spot to enjoy a fantastic meal at sunset.

The Raw Bar (Mashpee)

The seafood here is fresh, local and tasty. The raw bar includes freshly shucked oysters. They also have a colossal lobster roll that is not to be missed!

Epic Oyster (North Falmouth)

Epic Oyster is known to “shuck to order” – you can’t get much fresher than that! This restaurant has a rich history. The building it is in dates back to 1922. The menu includes fresh local seafood with a twist of inspired Portuguese flavors.

Trader Ed’s (Hyannis)

Trader Ed’s has great local seafood and fun frozen tropical cocktails. They offer live music and dancing during the summer. You can also book a Clambake here! The outdoor seating overlooks the Hyannis Harbor and is a great place to enjoy a beautiful Cape sunset.

Fresh Ketch (Hyannis)

This restaurant is great for an amazing seafood meal and people watching. They have a spacious indoor dining room and lots of outdoor seating. They even have a takeout window if you just want to grab your seafood and go! This is a perfect stop for some ultra fresh seafood after some shopping downtown.

Van Rensselaer’s Restaurant & Raw Bar (Wellfleet)

This family owned restaurant only offers the freshest locally caught seafood and meats. They have a back patio that is great day or night. The raw bar is phenomenal. 

Author

Hi, I'm Jen and I love to travel, go to the beach and write about all the places I have visited. I also have a bucket list of places I can't wait to try! I've visited Cape Cod every summer since I was a kid and now enjoy traveling to all great beach destinations! I have worked in the travel industry for all of my career. I love sharing my experiences of different restaurants and places and helping travelers find the best fit for them!

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