The seafood industry continues to be a lucrative sector, offering a range of franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to dive into the world of fish and seafood dining. From classic American seafood joints to upscale dining experiences, these 20 popular fish and seafood franchise brands provide a variety of options for those seeking to own a successful business. Whether you’re interested in casual dining or fine seafood cuisine, there’s a franchise here for you.
1. Red Lobster
- Overview: Red Lobster is one of the most recognizable seafood chains in the world, known for its wide array of seafood dishes and its famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits. With a strong brand presence, Red Lobster continues to dominate the seafood dining industry.
- Number of Locations: Over 700 locations worldwide.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available globally.
- Headquarters: Orlando, Florida, USA.
2. Joe’s Crab Shack
- Overview: Joe’s Crab Shack offers a fun, casual dining experience with a focus on seafood, particularly crabs. The laid-back atmosphere and extensive menu make it a favorite for families and seafood lovers.
- Number of Locations: Over 50 locations across the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in the United States.
- Headquarters: Houston, Texas, USA.
3. Long John Silver’s
- Overview: Long John Silver’s is a well-established seafood chain known for its fried fish, shrimp, and chicken dishes. The brand’s affordable menu and fast-casual dining style have made it a popular choice across America.
- Number of Locations: Over 1,100 locations worldwide.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in the United States and select international markets.
- Headquarters: Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
4. Captain D’s
- Overview: Captain D’s offers a variety of seafood dishes, from fried fish to shrimp, with a focus on Southern-style cooking. Known for its fast-casual environment, Captain D’s is a go-to for affordable seafood.
- Number of Locations: Over 500 locations across the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in the United States.
- Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
5. Popeyes Seafood
- Overview: While primarily known for its fried chicken, Popeyes also offers a range of seafood options, including shrimp and fish. The brand’s New Orleans-style cooking adds a unique flavor to its seafood offerings.
- Number of Locations: Over 2,000 locations worldwide.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available globally.
- Headquarters: Miami, Florida, USA.
6. Bonefish Grill
- Overview: Bonefish Grill provides an upscale dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and steak. Known for its sophisticated menu and elegant atmosphere, Bonefish Grill appeals to seafood connoisseurs.
- Number of Locations: Over 200 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in the United States.
- Headquarters: Tampa, Florida, USA.
7. Fleming’s Prime Seafood & Wine Bar
- Overview: Fleming’s is an upscale dining franchise offering prime seafood and an extensive wine list. The brand’s focus on quality and luxury dining has made it a popular choice for special occasions.
- Number of Locations: Over 70 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in the United States.
- Headquarters: Tampa, Florida, USA.
8. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
- Overview: Eddie V’s offers a luxurious dining experience, specializing in prime seafood and steaks. The sophisticated ambiance and top-tier service make it a favorite for fine dining enthusiasts.
- Number of Locations: Over 20 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Select opportunities available.
- Headquarters: Tampa, Florida, USA.
9. The Oceanaire Seafood Room
- Overview: The Oceanaire Seafood Room offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. The brand’s dedication to quality and exceptional service has earned it a loyal customer base.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Limited opportunities available.
- Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, USA.
10. Mitchell’s Fish Market
- Overview: Mitchell’s Fish Market provides a polished dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal seafood. The brand is known for its chef-driven menus and high-quality dishes.
- Number of Locations: Over 20 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: Houston, Texas, USA.
11. Cameron’s Seafood
- Overview: Cameron’s Seafood is a family-owned franchise offering fresh, high-quality seafood, including Maryland blue crabs. The brand’s commitment to freshness and sustainability has made it a favorite in the regions it serves.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: Rockville, Maryland, USA.
12. Fish City Grill
- Overview: Fish City Grill is a casual dining seafood franchise known for its fresh, seasonal offerings and relaxed atmosphere. The brand’s focus on community and quality has helped it build a strong following.
- Number of Locations: Over 20 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, USA.
13. Flying Fish Public Market & Grill
- Overview: Flying Fish Public Market & Grill offers a unique dining experience with a lively atmosphere, fresh seafood, and a focus on Southern hospitality. The brand’s casual, fun vibe appeals to a broad audience.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: Little Rock, Arkansas, USA.
14. The Fish Market
- Overview: The Fish Market is a seafood franchise offering fresh, high-quality dishes in a relaxed, casual dining setting. The brand’s emphasis on freshness and flavor has made it a popular choice for seafood lovers.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: San Diego, California, USA.
15. Water Grill
- Overview: Water Grill is an upscale seafood restaurant known for its fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and sophisticated dining experience. The brand’s commitment to quality and service has earned it a loyal clientele.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Limited opportunities available.
- Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, USA.
16. Blue Water Grille
- Overview: Blue Water Grille offers a relaxed, casual dining experience with a focus on fresh, flavorful seafood. The brand’s emphasis on community and quality ingredients has made it a local favorite.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA.
17. Sea Island Shrimp House
- Overview: Sea Island Shrimp House is a family-owned seafood franchise known for its fresh, affordable seafood dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The brand’s focus on quality and value has helped it build a strong following.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas, USA.
18. Fishbone’s
- Overview: Fishbone’s is a seafood franchise offering a lively, vibrant dining experience with a focus on fresh, flavorful dishes and Southern hospitality. The brand’s commitment to quality and fun has made it a popular choice for diners.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: Detroit, Michigan, USA.
19. H2O Seafood & Grill
- Overview: H2O Seafood & Grill offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and high-quality ingredients. The brand’s dedication to quality and service has made it a favorite among seafood lovers.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Limited opportunities available.
- Headquarters: Smithtown, New York, USA.
20. The Crab Trap
- Overview: The Crab Trap is a seafood franchise known for its casual, family-friendly dining experience and fresh, flavorful seafood dishes. The brand’s focus on quality and value has helped it build a loyal customer base.
- Number of Locations: Over 10 locations in the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select regions.
- Headquarters: Somers Point, New Jersey, USA.
21. Manhattan Fish Market
- Headquarters: Singapore.
- Overview: The Manhattan Fish Market is a popular seafood franchise inspired by the famous Fulton Fish Market in New York City. It offers a wide variety of seafood dishes, from fish and chips to grilled seafood platters, all served in a casual, family-friendly setting. The brand is known for its fresh ingredients and commitment to quality, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
- Number of Locations: Over 70 locations across Asia and the Middle East.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select international markets.
22. Nordsee
- Overview: Nordsee is one of Europe’s leading seafood chains, known for its wide array of fresh and fast-casual seafood offerings. Originating in Germany, the brand is a staple in many European countries, providing customers with everything from fish sandwiches to full seafood meals in a quick-service format.
- Number of Locations: Over 350 locations across Europe and the Middle East.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in Europe and other international markets.
- Headquarters: Bremerhaven, Germany.
23. Ocean Basket
- Overview: Ocean Basket is a global seafood franchise based in South Africa, offering a Mediterranean-inspired seafood menu. With a strong presence in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, Ocean Basket is known for its fresh seafood platters and casual dining experience.
- Number of Locations: Over 200 locations in 19 countries.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available globally.
- Headquarters: Johannesburg, South Africa.
24. The Boiling Crab
- Overview: The Boiling Crab is a popular American seafood franchise specializing in Cajun-style boiled seafood, including crabs, shrimp, and crawfish. Known for its casual, communal dining experience where guests eat directly from the table, The Boiling Crab has developed a strong following.
- Number of Locations: Over 25 locations in the United States and Asia.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in select markets.
- Headquarters: Garden Grove, California, USA.
25. Red Crab Juicy Seafood
- Overview: Red Crab Juicy Seafood is a rapidly growing seafood chain in the United States, offering a menu centered around Cajun-style seafood boils. The brand has gained popularity for its vibrant dining experience and flavorful dishes, making it a strong contender in the seafood dining sector.
- Number of Locations: Over 40 locations across the United States.
- Franchise Opportunities: Available in the U.S. and select international markets.
- Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Conclusion
The fish and seafood franchise industry presents a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs ready to dive into a thriving market. From casual dining to upscale culinary experiences, these 20 popular franchises offer the potential for substantial success. At Star Brands Consulting Group, we specialize in guiding aspiring franchisees through every step of the process—from identifying the right franchise opportunity to securing financing and navigating the complexities of franchise ownership. Our expertise in the industry ensures that you make informed decisions that align with your business goals. If you’re ready to embark on your franchising journey, let Star Brands Consulting Group be your trusted partner in achieving success.