Looking to explore the best seafood restaurants in Durres? You’re in for a real treat!
The vibrant coastal city of Durres, with its golden sandy beaches and rich maritime traditions, offers some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in Albania. Thanks to its daily access to the bounty of the Adriatic Sea, Durres is a true paradise for seafood lovers.
Seafood has always been at the heart of Durres’ culinary identity. For generations, fishing has been a way of life here, and today that tradition continues to thrive, bringing the freshest fish, shellfish, and crustaceans directly from the sea to your plate. From traditional baked carp and grilled sea bass to creative seafood risottos and calamari dishes, Durres’ cuisine captures the true essence of Mediterranean flavors.
Over the years, the city has developed a vibrant dining scene where seafood isn’t just food — it’s a celebration of freshness, simplicity, and authentic coastal life. Whether you’re looking for a charming seaside tavern or a sophisticated restaurant with a modern twist, Durres has it all.
To help you savor the very best, we’ve curated a guide to the Top 5 Seafood Restaurants in Durres — must-visit spots that guarantee an unforgettable culinary journey by the sea.
5. Arberia 4.7/5 – A Cozy Seafood Restaurant in Durres
Location: ARBERIA – Google Maps
Instagram: @villaarberia
Service Options: Cash only, outdoor seating, fireplace
Hours: Open daily from 6:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Located along the scenic shores of Durres, ARBERIA proudly ranks among the best Seafood Restaurants in Durres, offering an authentic and unforgettable Albanian dining experience. Since opening in 2013, this charming restaurant has captured the hearts of both locals and travelers with its breathtaking sea views, welcoming atmosphere, and a menu rich in traditional flavors. With a stellar rating of 4.7/5 from over 1,200 reviews on Google, and ranked #5 among top dining spots in the city, ARBERIA stands out for its perfect blend of fresh seafood, succulent meats, and warm hospitality — making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Adriatic coastline.
Recommended Dishes:
- Veal Tongue: A standout favorite, often considered the best dish in Durrës for its rich, savory flavor.
- Fresh Seafood: Daily catches from the Adriatic Sea, prepared with authentic techniques that highlight their natural taste.
- Risotto: Praised for its perfect texture and well-balanced flavors — a must-try for lovers of classic comfort food.
- Fish Specialties: Creative, flavorful dishes made from the freshest fish, capturing the spirit of coastal Albanian cuisine.
- Focaccia: A delightful, simple bread that pairs wonderfully with every meal, highly recommended by frequent visitors.
Tip from a Visitor:
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a sunset dinner on the outdoor terrace for stunning sea views! And be sure to ask for Alfonso if you need English-friendly service — he’s a favorite among international guests.
4. Uma Food & Drinks 5.0/) – A Modern Seafood Restaurant in Durres
Location: Uma Food & Drink – Google Maps
Instagram: @uma_food_drinks
Service Options: Serves great cocktails
Hours: Open daily until 11 PM
View Menu
Located in the vibrant heart of Durres, Uma Food & Drinks stands out as a top choice among the best Seafood Restaurants in Durres, offering a perfect blend of traditional Albanian cuisine and international flavors. This modern and welcoming spot has become a favorite for both locals and travelers, thanks to its elegant design, exceptional seafood dishes, and outstanding service. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a casual family gathering, or a special occasion, Uma promises a dining experience that delights all senses and captures the essence of Durres’ culinary charm.
Recommended Dishes:
- Seafood Risotto: Creamy and flavorful, packed with fresh seafood, and praised for its generous portion size.
- Controfiletto: A perfectly cooked beef cut, ideal for meat lovers looking for a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Sea Bass in Salt: Moist, tender fish cooked with a delicate touch, showcasing the freshness of local ingredients.
- Shrimp and Tomato Appetizer: Light and refreshing, a perfect starter that balances flavor and freshness.
- Sushi: A surprising highlight with creative and visually appealing rolls, offering a modern twist in the menu.
Tip from a Visitor:
Don’t miss pairing your meal with a glass of local Albanian wine like “Shesh” for a complete experience! Also, bring some cash — card payments are not accepted.
3. Meison Bistro 5.0/5 – A Passionate Seafood Experience in Durres
Location: Meison Bistro – Google Maps
Instagram: @meisonbistro
Hours: Daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Phone: 0673000700
View Menu
Located just steps away from the stunning beach promenade, Meison Bistro shines as a must-visit seafood restaurant in Durres. Ranked #3 by Love Albania with an outstanding 5.0/5 rating and over 1,073 reviews on Google, this cozy and elegant bistro has become a culinary favorite for both locals and travelers. Offering a warm atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu rich in fresh seafood specialties, Meison Bistro guarantees a dining experience that perfectly captures the coastal charm of Durrës. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a family lunch by the sea, Meison Bistro delivers a memorable journey for your taste buds.
Recommended Dishes:
- Grilled Octopus: Tender, flavorful, and one of the standout dishes highly praised by guests.
- Seafood Pasta: A hearty and delicious option, blending fresh seafood with perfectly cooked pasta.
- Fish Soup: Light yet flavorful, a favorite starter among visitors.
- Lime/Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing way to end your meal, often described as the best sorbet ever tasted.
- Mantis Shrimp: A unique and exquisite seafood treat, rare to find elsewhere.
Tip from a Visitor:
Book your table in advance to avoid waiting, especially during dinner time! And make sure to pair your seafood dishes with their delightful house wine for a full Albanian experience.
2. Bar-Restorant Spiranca 5.0/5 – A Top Beachfront Seafood Restaurant in Durres
Location: Restorant Spiranca – Google Maps
Instagram: @restorant_spiranca
Service Options: Cash only, outdoor seating, serves vegan dishes
Hours: Open daily from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Located right by the shimmering Adriatic coastline, Bar-Restorant Spiranca is a true hidden gem among seafood restaurants in Durres. Ranked #2 by Love Albania and boasting an impressive 5.0/5 rating with over 1,406 reviews on Google, Spiranca has earned its place as one of the most cherished dining spots in the city. Combining the warmth of Albanian hospitality, traditional family recipes, and incredibly fresh seafood, this family-run restaurant offers an authentic and heartfelt culinary experience that keeps visitors coming back again and again.
Recommended Dishes:
- Octopus: Exceptionally tender and full of flavor, a must-try signature dish.
- Traditional Fish in Royal Style: A baked fish specialty served with roasted vegetables — perfect for savoring traditional flavors.
- Fried Seafood: A crispy, satisfying platter featuring the best daily catches from the Adriatic Sea.
- Shrimps: Fresh, naturally sweet shrimp, simply cooked to highlight their quality.
- Traditional Casserole: A comforting dish rooted in Albanian home cooking, hearty and full of flavor.
Tip from a Visitor:
Don’t miss the chance to taste their homemade olive oil and raki — true highlights of the experience! And be sure to chat with the owner or staff for insider tips about Albanian culture and traditions.
Want to dive deeper into this amazing place? Read our full review here: Restaurant Spiranca: A Top 5 Seafood Restaurant in Durres
1. Resto Cafe Hotel Hemingway 5.0/5 – The Best Seafood Restaurant in Durres
Location: Resto Cafe Hotel Hemingway – Google Maps
Instagram: @resto_cafe_hotel_heming_way
Service Options: Reservations required, outdoor seating, serves great cocktails
Hours: Open until 1:30 AM (kitchen closes at 12:00 AM)
Located right by the golden beaches of Durres, Resto Cafe Hotel Hemingway proudly stands as the #1 ranked spot by Love Albania among the best seafood restaurants in Durres, with a stellar 5.0/5 rating and 996 reviews on Google. Known for its breathtaking sea views, exceptional hospitality, and a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, Hemingway offers an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re seeking fresh seafood, Italian classics, or refreshing drinks in a cozy coastal setting, this restaurant perfectly captures the relaxed spirit of Albania’s seaside charm.
Recommended Dishes:
- Fresh Seafood Extravaganza: Highly praised for its freshness and flavor, a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Margherita Pizza: A delightful classic, praised for its light crust and balanced flavors.
- Strawberry Milkshake: A sweet and refreshing treat, perfect while enjoying the beach views.
- Beef in Cognac and Lemon: A bold and flavorful option for those seeking something different.
- Tagliatelle with Bolognese: A hearty, comforting Italian classic that pleases many diners.
Tip from a Visitor:
Make sure to grab a table with a sea view for a truly special experience! And don’t miss chatting with the friendly staff — they often have great recommendations to make your visit even more memorable.
How We Created This Ranking
At Love Albania, we are committed to providing accurate and trustworthy recommendations. For this ranking, we considered all Restaurants in Durres that offer Seafood and meet the following initial criteria:
- A considerable number of reviews on both Google and TripAdvisor
- An overall rating higher than 4.5 stars
Restaurants that passed the first selection phase were then analyzed more closely, focusing on reviews from the last 12 months. In this second phase, we evaluated key aspects such as:
- Food quality
- Service quality
- Atmosphere
- Consumer rating trends and detailed feedback
After carefully analyzing numerous reviews, we have finalized our Top 5 list of the best Seafood Restaurants in Durres.
For those interested in luxury stays, check out the Top 5 Five Star Hotels in Durres. Be sure to explore these top-rated spots and indulge in the freshest seafood the city has to offer!
