The Upper West Side has plenty of neighborhood restaurants, but when the craving is for fresh oysters, creative seafood and a seriously good lobster roll, Crave Fishbar on Amsterdam Avenue makes a strong case for getting out of the neighborhood dinner rut.
Located at 428 Amsterdam Avenue, between West 80th and 81st Streets, Crave Fishbar brings its seafood-focused menu and lively atmosphere to one of the Upper West Side’s busiest dining corridors. And while the name might suggest a strictly fish-and-chips operation, the menu goes considerably deeper.
Oysters First, Questions Later
Crave Fishbar bills itself as New York City’s first 100% sustainable seafood restaurant, with a commitment to responsibly sourced seafood and partnerships with conservation initiatives.
The raw bar is a major attraction, featuring a rotating selection of oysters, clams, shrimp cocktail and seafood towers that make ordering for the table particularly tempting. Its signature #Oystergram happy hour is another draw, giving oyster lovers an excuse to make an early evening visit.
For those who prefer their seafood cooked, the menu offers plenty of options, including grilled Hudson Canyon swordfish, Maine lobster rolls, Thai lobster curry and handmade spicy squid ink spaghetti.
More Than Just a Seafood Restaurant
Not everyone at the table needs to be a committed seafood enthusiast. Crave also serves dishes such as homemade cavatelli, salads and other creative plates, making it an easy choice for groups with different appetites.
And whatever you order, save room for the restaurant’s famous chocolate chip cookie, served warm with vanilla ice cream. Because even the most disciplined seafood dinner deserves a sweet ending.
A Neighborhood Favorite Worth Discovering
With its approachable atmosphere, inventive menu and focus on sustainable seafood, Crave Fishbar offers the Upper West Side a restaurant that works for date nights, dinner with friends or a spontaneous oyster-and-martini outing.
At Amsterdam and 80th, the catch of the day is looking particularly good.
