Have you ever noticed that that closer you are to the ocean, the more expensive the fish? To be sure, dining with a seaside view—with the sea air in your face and the gentle lapping of waves in the distance—can warrant a higher price tag. But if you’re just looking for good seafood without the oceanfront ambiance, there are neighborhoods where you can still enjoy a great meal.

Doral

Photo courtesy of Divino Ceviche

Serving Peruvian cuisine at moderate prices, Divino Ceviche in Doral features traditional dishes such as arroz con mariscos (shrimp, squid, mussels, and scallops), antichuchada de mariscos (seafood seasoned with vinegar, cumin, garlic, and Peruvian Panca chili accompanied by potatoes), and, of course, a variety of ceviche. There’s also a second location in Coral Gables if you happen to be in that neighborhood. If you’re in the mood for Japanese food, Dragonfly Izakaya & Fish Market offers a variety of sushi, sashimi, seafood, and sake in a modern setting. 

Kendall

Devon Seafood + Steak isn’t located right next to the ocean, but the Kendall establishment still serves the catch of the day. Some perennial favorites are Atlantic salmon, mahi-mahi, and red grouper. Devon also offers a $39 or $48 (depending on the selected entree) three-course prix-fixe menu. El Floridita Seafood Restaurant features Cuban seafood dishes from homegrown recipes. In addition to the Kendall location, there is another restaurant in Westchester. 

Little Havana

Photo courtesy of La Camaronera Seafood Joint & Fish Market 

Founded by a family of Cuban fishermen, La Camaronera Seafood Joint & Fish Market offers table and counter service in a casual atmosphere. A few popular dishes include camarones fritos (fried shrimp) and filete de pescado (fish fillet). This Little Havana restaurant receives high marks for its sandwiches, including the original pan con minuta (snapper sandwich) and the camaronera sandwich (breaded shrimp sandwich). Next door to the restaurant is a fish market where you can buy fried whole fish, breaded lobster, stone crab, and fried grouper cheeks.

South Miami

Opened in 1971 by “The Captain” himself, The Captain’s Tavern Miami in South Miami serves a variety of seafood favorites such as whole Florida lobster, grouper, snapper, and king crab legs. If you’re in mood to cook on your own, the Captain’s Tavern Seafood Market located right next door sells seafood caught in local waters or around the globe.

Hialeah Gardens

Get your crab on in Hialeah Gardens / Shutterstock

Known for its rustic atmosphere and moderate prices, Don Camaron Seafood Grill & Market is a casual come-as-you-are restaurant sure to please seafood lovers. The fish market sells domestic fish like red snapper, yellowtail snapper, mangrove snapper, hog fish, and grouper. In addition to its location in Hialeah Gardens, there are other restaurants in East Coral Gables and one in Marlins Park, if you want to take in a baseball game while you enjoy your fish.

Flagami

Catch of the Day is a tropical-themed sports bar near the Miami International Airport that features a long list of seafood items both raw and cooked. Although it’s located on a busy road, the trees shield diners from the street, so if you opt for outdoor seating you won’t have to worry about noise. Flat-screen TVs hang indoors and out, so you can catch the game while you eat. The menu features a variety of fish offerings, such as Catch’s seafood platter (calamari, shrimp, fish bites, cod fritters, and mariquitas) or parrillada de mariscos (grilled shrimp on a skewer, blackened fish bites, mussels, clams, scallops, and calamari).

Wynwood

The Wynwood dining scene is something you shouldn't miss

The only thing better than the seafood at the Prohibition Restaurant and Speakeasy in Wynwood are the classic cocktails served here, which are reminiscent of the Prohibition Era—so think Old Fashioneds and Manhattans. But the menu choices—from seared octopus and mussels mariniere on the small-plate menu to maple black grouper and seared scallops on the large-plate menu—are also worth the trip. Both are served in this hip, upscale venue with 1920s-inspired artwork. If you’re looking for a more laid-back environment with moderate prices, then you might try Laguna Seafood Restaurant. Here, you’ll find a variety of home-style Cuban dishes served in a casual atmosphere. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers dine in, takeout, and delivery services.