When you enjoy seafood and want to expand your horizons, it is natural to want to try a raw bar in Boston. After all, Boston has a rich history of having the best seafood, from classic lobster rolls to clam chowder and oyster bars at waterfront restaurants. Our guide will help you master the art of the raw bar, and have you prepared to dig in and try some savory oysters and other shellfish at Seamark Seafood & Cocktails.  

CTA: Book your reservation today.

What Is Meant by Raw Bar?

A raw bar in Boston and other coastal towns is where the restaurant offers raw oysters and other raw or chilled seafood. The primary rule of a raw bar is that everything must be served cold. The ultimate raw bar experience is a multi-layer seafood tower, complete with:

• Raw oysters
• Chilled shrimp
• Chilled crab
• Chilled lobster
• Chilled clams
• Crudo
• Chilled mussels

Some seafood towers also feature chilled lightly seared tuna or salmon, raw scallops, and caviar. 

What Is the Difference Between a Raw Bar and an Oyster Bar in Boston?

Many people use the terms raw bar and oyster bar interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between a raw bar and an oyster bar in Boston. Raw bars feature raw oysters, along with other types of raw and chilled seafood. 

Whereas, an oyster bar specifically focuses on raw oysters, usually featuring a selection of different types served on the half shell. It is essential that the oysters be fresh, and there are several varieties, such as:

• East Coast oysters
• West Coast oysters
• Gulf Coast oysters
• Japanese oysters

There may be some other raw or chilled seafood served with an oyster bar, but the primary focus will always be the oysters. Some restaurants will also shuck the oysters table-side for a unique dining experience. 

Whether you prefer a raw bar or oyster bar, remember to pair your seafood tower with a glass of wine or champagne, a signature cocktail or mocktail, or an ice-cold beer. 

Come join us every Tuesday and Wednesday in our bar and lounge for our Oyster Hour featuring $1 oysters. Afterward, enjoy our Harbor Hour menu, featuring a three-course meal of our signature dishes. 

What Makes a Great Raw Bar?

Some of the many things that make a great raw bar in Boston include:

• Freshness and quality: Only the best ingredients make the cut
• Precision in preparation: Shucked, sliced, and served with care
• Presentation that impresses: Ice beds, garnishes, and artistic plates
• Variety: Offers a range of seafood on a raw bar with unique items, like crudo, ceviche, or sashimi
• Sauces and condiments: Features lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and a selection of sauces to complement each of the seafood items on the raw bar
• Knowledgeable staff: Well-trained staff to help guide people through the raw bar, answer questions, and make recommendations for sauces, garnishes, and drink pairings 

Seamark Seafood & Cocktails’ Signature Raw Bar Selections

Seamark Seafood & Cocktails offers a variety of the freshest seafood as part of our raw bar selections, including:

• Oysters on the half shell
• Shrimp cocktail
• Crudo creations
• Ceviche
• Clams on the half shell
• Jumbo lump crab
• Seafood tower sharing platters

You can enjoy our raw bar with some of our other exceptional seafood delights, such as our double clam chowder, lobster roll, tuna tartare, PEI mussels, house crab cake, or other items off our food menu. 

Pairing Drinks With Raw Bar Delights

When enjoying raw bar delights, it is recommended to pair the seafood with various drinks that help complement and enhance the flavors of the oysters and other seafood items. Our servers are experienced at recommending the right pairings, including:

• Champagne and sparkling wines
• Crisp white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay
• Craft cocktails designed to complement the freshness
• Seafood pairings with beer include lagers, dry stouts, and pilsners

Some great pairings for people who do not drink alcohol are:

• Citrus-based mocktails
• Sparkling water with fruits
• Non-alcoholic sparkling wine 

Why Is Seamark Seafood & Cocktails the Best Oyster Bar in Boston?

Some of the reasons why Seamark Seafood & Cocktails is the best oyster bar in Boston include:

• Commitment to quality and sustainability
• Source seafood locally whenever possible
• Attention to detail in every dish
• Impeccable service and a luxurious atmosphere
• James Beard award-winning chef, Michael Schlow
• Regarded as one of the best restaurants near Boston Harbor
• Nautical-inspired atmosphere

Savor the Art of the Raw Bar at Seamark Seafood & Cocktails Today

When you want the best raw bar, and best seafood dishes in Boston, with the freshest, locally sourced seafood, you need to visit Seamark Seafood & Cocktails. We are conveniently located in the Encore Boston Harbor. 

While walk-ins are always welcome, we highly recommend making a reservation to ensure you can enjoy our flavorful seafood dishes and raw bar.     

CTA: Book your reservation today.

Sources:

Doliner, A. (2023). The 6 Best Drinks to Pair With Oysters, According to the Food52 Team.

Encore Boston Harbor. (2025).Mirev, N. Seafood Pairing: Drinks That Pair Well With Seafood.