While cities like Houston and Orlando are filled with many restaurants that are little more than tourist traps, there are also some fine opportunities to taste the best seafood in these large metropolitan cities. With such close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, Orlando and Houston restaurants are fortunate to have their first pick of the freshest catches every day. And anything that isn't available from the local seas can easily be flown in fresh every morning to be served up later that day.



Most people don't think of Orlando when they think of the nation's best restaurants. Orlando is more closely associated with theme parks and family fun. This Florida city is so close to the Atlantic Ocean, though, that there is plenty of fresh seafood to enjoy and many fine chefs who come here to work with the local cuisines. The best seafood such as Ahi Tuna, Amberjack, Loup De Mer, Mahi Mahi, Mako Shark, Red Snapper, Stuffed Snapper and Swordfish is as close as the local sea.

Houston restaurants may also not always be associated with the best seafood in the country because this city is not as close to the ocean as some cities like Seattle and Miami, and not as close to freshwater as cities like Minneapolis. But the city of Houston is still very close to the Gulf of Mexico, and it is no problem getting the freshest catches into a fine dining restaurant in plenty of time for the lunch time crowd. The best seafood in Texas includes Black Grouper, Monkfish, Swordfish, Salmon and more.

To get the best seafood, you don't have to go somewhere like San Diego that is well known for fresh fish. In cities like Houston and Orlando, and even in the Midwest, you can find great fresh fish of all varieties flown in every day to please your pallet.