Located in the heart of the vibrant Raleigh community at 2018 Clark Ave, Cape Fear Seafood Company stands as a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the North Carolina coast. For those who appreciate the delicate balance of fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation, this establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere that bridges the gap between casual dining and a refined gastronomic experience. The restaurant has become a local staple, drawing in residents and visitors alike who seek a genuine taste of the Atlantic shoreline within the bustling urban landscape of North Carolina.
The philosophy behind the kitchen is rooted in the belief that high-quality seafood should be accessible, sustainable, and prepared with respect for the natural flavors of the ocean. By focusing on seasonal availability and sourcing from reputable suppliers, the culinary team ensures that every plate reflects the bounty of the region. Whether you are stopping by for a quiet weeknight dinner or celebrating a special occasion with friends and family, the environment is designed to foster conversation and enjoyment. The interior design mirrors the coastal influence, providing a comfortable backdrop that allows the food to take center stage.
Beyond the menu, the identity of Cape Fear Seafood Company is defined by its commitment to the Raleigh neighborhood. Being situated on Clark Avenue places the restaurant in a prime location, making it a convenient destination for those exploring the local area. The staff takes pride in maintaining a standard of service that is both attentive and unobtrusive, ensuring that every guest feels valued from the moment they walk through the doors. It is this combination of location, culinary integrity, and hospitality that has allowed the restaurant to carve out a unique space in the competitive dining scene of the Triangle area.
What Makes the Experience Unique
Commitment to Freshness: The kitchen prioritizes the use of high-quality seafood, ensuring that the natural textures and flavors of the catch are preserved through precise cooking techniques.
Coastal-Inspired Atmosphere: The restaurant captures the essence of the North Carolina coast, offering a relaxed yet sophisticated setting that is suitable for a wide variety of dining occasions.
Community Integration: Located in a prime spot on Clark Avenue, the establishment serves as a hub for the local community, reflecting the spirit and hospitality of Raleigh.
Balanced Culinary Approach: The menu is thoughtfully curated to provide a diverse range of options, catering to different preferences while maintaining a consistent focus on traditional seafood preparation.
A Culinary Destination in the Heart of the City
Choosing where to dine often involves looking for a place that feels authentic and reliable. Cape Fear Seafood Company succeeds by focusing on the fundamentals: excellent ingredients, a welcoming environment, and a deep appreciation for the coastal heritage of North Carolina. By maintaining these core values, the restaurant continues to be a preferred choice for those who value quality and consistency in their dining experiences.
As you plan your next visit to the Raleigh area, consider the unique offerings found at 2018 Clark Ave. Whether you are a lifelong resident or just passing through, the team at Cape Fear Seafood Company is dedicated to providing a memorable meal that honors the traditions of the sea. We invite you to experience the distinct flavors and warm hospitality that define this local landmark, and we look forward to serving you in a setting where every detail is crafted with the guest in mind.
Ultimately, the success of a restaurant is measured by the satisfaction of its patrons and its ability to remain a relevant part of the local culture. Through its dedication to quality and its inviting presence on Clark Avenue, Cape Fear Seafood Company remains a cornerstone of the Raleigh dining scene. We encourage you to explore the menu and discover why so many have made this location their go-to destination for a genuine and satisfying seafood experience.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great cocktails
Great dessert
Great wine list
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Small plates
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom
Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Quiet
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Usually plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Menus
Photos
Reviews Cape Fear Seafood Company
Desi B
30-05-2026
I enjoyed my meal and the customer service was great. My family and I made reservations and we were seated within 10 minutes of arriving. Since this was my first visit to the restaurant, I played it safe and ordered a calabash fried platter of scallops and shrimp with a side of asparagus and roasted potatoes. The food was seasoned properly and delicious. I’m glad I substituted the coleslaw because it looked bland (a member of my family had it and didn’t like it). The waitress checked on us periodically and was friendly. For dessert we had cheesecake covered with hardened chocolate. The cheesecake tasted okay; I’ve had better cheesecakes elsewhere. Overall my family and I had a good experience and I will likely return.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
nrgriffi6565
30-05-2026
The staff was very attentive. This dude at the table next to us addressed our waitress rudely by yelling "sweetie" at them several times and snapped to get their attention. The staff member kept their cool in the face of this wild behavior. … More
Fal E
30-05-2026
An all time favorite. We had a 8pm reservation on a Friday.
I had the calamari app, and the Colorado Snapper entree. Very good.
My sides - risotto cakes and spinach were delicious. … More
william boyst
30-05-2026
I had the Ahi Tuna sandwich. Ordered rare and let me tell you it was delicious! The aioli sauce was amazing as well. Cant go wrong with this and a cup of clam chowder. ✔️ More
Eric
30-05-2026
We ended up here on a whim. Chose this for dinner while we wait on a show. Everything was delicious. Service was great. Salmon and Risotto with the aioli was perfect. More
Brenda Banks
30-05-2026
I love the variety & quality of the food here! The decor gives beach vibes, & the staff are always helpful, friendly & fast! I suggest making a reservation, especially on the weekends, because it is always busy during brunch hours. But, if … More
Andrea Washington
30-05-2026
The food was delicious, the weather was perfect for sitting outside, and Montana was a great server. I'd definitely recommend eating here 😋
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Clayton & Cindy Putnam
30-05-2026
February 23, 2025 - (Quick point . . . Skip to my photos!) After eating great seafood in Maine for 7 years, my wife and I enjoyed a wonderful seafood dinner at Raleigh’s Cape Fear Seafood Company! 😃👍🏼
We’re impressed with the selection of fresh fish at the Village District location ( 1 of 9 locations by the end of 2025) of this wonderful seafood restaurant company. Our last night in Raleigh, the parents of the Groom took us out for seafood , knowing how much we ( parents of the bride) love SEAFOOD! 🦞
Although lobster wasn’t on the menu, we tried North Carolina’s seafood 🍤 🐟 Between the 4 we ordered spicy Jambalaya, Flounder stuffed w/crab, Shrimp Tacos, and the special Stripped Bass ! Sadly our delightful server, Kimberly returned with news that the Stripped Bass was sold out! Kim assured me to try the Wahoo 🐟 !
As we sipped on cocktails, ( I liked my strawberry margarita on the rocks) we recounted the wedding experience of the last few days. Fun starting up new relationships. . . and speculating of future celebrations on a growing family 😃👍🏼
No rush , unwinding , and enjoying the moment at a nice restaurant in Raleigh! Then comes our dinner entrees! After a few bites over comes the manager , Matt! He asks us about our meals, we in turn give a “ 👍🏼” up !
We mentioned that my wife & I loved the fresh seafood , and how we hadn’t found many fresh seafood restaurants in the Raleigh area until tonight! I asked Matt about their source of seafood? We talked for a good 10 minutes, and he thanked us for coming to dinner.
As we wrapped up our meal, our server Kim returns to share a surprise. . . the restaurant would like to offer all 4 of us complimentary desserts to celebrate the wedding of our children ! Wow , “ Thank you “! 🙏🏻 I found out, a Chef creates all the desserts “ in house” . . .
Key Lime Pie
Expresso Brownie Sundae
Creme’ Brûlée
New York Cheesecake
( we shared all 4 , rich, delicious desserts)
Once a “Maine-ah” who loves fresh seafood, I highly recommend the seafood, especially wild caught broiled fish ! Next time I hope to try the Stripped Bass !
The Cape Fear Seafood Company was founded by Evans Trawick in 2008, over time locations & partners were added:
Monkey Junction - Wilmington, NC
Porters Neck - Wilmington, NC
Waterford - Belville, NC
Spring Forest - Raleigh, NC
Village District - Raleigh, NC
Wake Forest , NC
North Myrtle Beach - SC
*Cary, NC (Opening soon)
*Greenville, NC ( Opening soon)
Fun Facts . . . Farm Raised v. Fresh Fish 🐟
( Consider what you value ?)
Farm Raised Fisheries
+ Sustainable food source
+ U.S. aquaculture guidelines & practices
+ U.S. controls chemicals & antibiotics
+ U.S. requires water standards for fish
+ U.S. requires nutrient rich foods
+ U.S. can trace US fish company products
- Overseas (Southeast Asia) not regulated
- 90% of shrimp comes from overseas
- Farm raised fish food not regulated
- Child labor & human trafficking possible at overseas fish farming companies
+ Farm raised fish high in Omega 3
- Industrial pollution, use of chemicals
Wild Caught Fish
+ Natural Taste & texture of fish 🐟
+ Natural diet & fatty acids
+ Fish leaner in natural habitat
- Over fishing changes habitat
- Larger fish ( tuna, cod, salmon) higher mercury levels
-Lost lively hood of fishing community
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
GeraldLaz38
30-05-2026
Really good first experience. Food was fresh, prepared as expected and had tremendous taste. Their cocktail sauce is the perfect blend of spicy goodness. Shrimp were hand breaded, not frozen prepackaged fare, and we're delicious. Clam strips were yummy as we're the hush puppy's served with soft creamy butter. Our server was in training but did a great job and remembered all the specials. We will be back!
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Hush Puppies
Jessica Keane
30-05-2026
I was craving seafood, so my husband and I went here on a Friday night. We went on the later side and didn't need a reservation to be seated right away.
I got the watermelon margarita, which was quite tasty. We then got served some bread with butter which was a nice surprise! It's rare to get free bread at restaurants these days. I got one of the fried seafood platters with clams and shrimp. It was a ton of food, and I had enough leftovers for another meal. The hush puppies were great in addition to the seafood. I would definitely come again!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Wait time
No wait
Michelle Labdon
30-05-2026
This is where I wish google allowed .5 of a star increments! Over all, I’d rate everything 4.5 stars.
The vibe is maybe casual+/upper casual where jeans etc are fine, but definitely wouldn’t wear shorts and bathing suit top etc. This is more of a dining seafood place.
The entrees were excellent, lobster was great and fresh, as were the scallops. Meals maybe a little on the salty side (not overly so), but worth the trip. Unfortunately the mussel appetizer, while having a good flavor sauce, had a few bad mussels in it. But over all, the food was very good and definitely want to come back and try the other dishes on the menu!
Service was knowledgeable and quick with taking our order, however there were a couple moments of disappearance and lack of silverware etc. BUT Collectively, everyone was very responsive, kind, and attentive!
Great place to get a sit down dining seafood meal and honestly can’t wait to go back and try other dishes. Worth a stop in!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–40
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Lemon Pepper Sea Scallops
Special events
No special event
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Dave Burbank
30-05-2026
We sat outside. Our waitress was excellent. Salads, entrees, and drinks were great. We were both a little disappointed with the flavors of our deserts. Overall, we look forward to going back. More
E M
30-05-2026
First time dining at the Village location; have eaten at Raleigh, Leland and Monkey Junction. The layout in the restaurant was nice and there was plenty of parking even with the comedy show starting. … More
Jesse T
30-05-2026
This was the best fried clams and shrimp I believe I have ever eaten. They were breaded and seasoned perfectly. If I'm ever back in Raleigh I will for sure eat here again. More
Muta Rugumamu
30-05-2026
The food was phenomenal, the service was top tier and I WILL be coming back to this restaurant again. My only complaint is that the muscles were a little small. That being said the catch of the day (Mahi Mahi) and the creamy risotto was exquisite. EAT HERE! More
Christina Hawes
30-05-2026
Visited here after a spa day with my mom on Wednesday it was our first time. Derrick was our sever and he was great. The Pineapple Sangria was on special for 6.50 on Wednesday so I highly recommend you can do it with white or red wine we choose white wine and it was delicious ! We shared everything the crab dip the sweet and spicy shrimp which were a nice size also the crab cake sliders and beer battered fish tacos ! Everything tasted fresh which we appreciated we will definitely return to try more of the menu!
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Group size
2 people, 3-4 people, Suitable for all group sizes
Janet Marquez
30-05-2026
Food was good, kept 1 star for the clam chowder I've had better! Atmosphere really inviting. Staff warm and inviting. Otherwise no complaints!!!
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Randy Parnell
30-05-2026
They have indoor and outdoor seating. The seafood is fresh and the staff is friendly. The manager there was working very hard. I enjoyed the crème brûlée and the jambalaya.
They had a clean bathroom. This location keeps the high standards of the chain.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
2 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Timmy Robinson
30-05-2026
We enjoyed everything we ordered. We'll definitely be back. Had one small issue and the young lady who's the manager promptly took care of it. This is a well run and managed restaurant., very clean and great employees.
We enjoyed gumbo, ahi tuna, crab, bisque and crab cakes. My wife liked he tuna best. I like the crab cakes best.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
3-4 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Booth seating
Lost Memories
30-05-2026
The server we had was amazing, he was quick to get food, funny, helped out to narrow down food options.
Most of the people enjoyed the food. The chicken sandwich didn't have much chicken. Was more bun then chicken.
Was kinda loud inside. Hard to hear the waiter and other guest.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Very loud, hard to hear
Group size
1 person, 2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people, 9+ people, Suitable for all group sizes
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace, Booth seating
Parking space
Difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
Loads of businesses sharing parking lot. Was tough finding one on a weekend.
Reviews Cape Fear Seafood Company