As we cruised down Highway 101, just a few miles from Seaside, Oregon, hunger struck. We weren’t looking for anything fancy—just a quick bite to satisfy our cravings before continuing our coastal adventure. That’s when we came across Buoy’s Best Restaurant, a favorite among locals for years. Conveniently located off the highway, this unpretentious spot sits beside the Bell Buoy seafood market, a trusted name on the Oregon Coast for 76 years, ensuring that the seafood is always fresh. If you find yourself in Seaside with a craving for wild-caught fish, Buoy’s Best is where you want to be. The fish and chips were so fresh, it was like tasting the sea itself.

Buoy's Best In Seaside, Oregon

One of the things that makes this little spot special is its dedication to sourcing seafood directly from local fishermen. About 80% of their products are caught within 50 miles, so whether you're enjoying a crab melt or some fish n' chips, you know the seafood on your plate is fresh and local. The Buoy team works with sustainable fisheries to ensure that their seafood is responsibly harvested, so you can dig into your meal knowing you're supporting both the environment and the local fishing community.

Sit By The Creek And Enjoy Light, Flaky Seafood

he menu at Buoy’s Best is straightforward, but it’s all about quality over quantity. As fans of halibut, we couldn’t resist trying their halibut fish and chips, and it did not disappoint. The batter was perfectly crispy and light, while the halibut inside was moist and flaky, exactly how fish and chips should be. Every bite was packed with fresh, delicious flavor, making it clear why Buoy’s Best has earned its reputation on the Oregon Coast.

The shrimp is another great option and are just as fresh as you’d expect eating just half a mile from Pacific.

Razor clams are another local favorite, and here's a hot tip: don’t leave without trying their famous crab melt!

The crab melt has sweet, delicate Dungeness crab, melted cheese, and a squeeze of lemon on toasty bread. It’s so good that many visitors find themselves coming back for seconds!

Beyond the food, Buoy’s Best offers a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere that makes it easy to kick back and enjoy Seaside's coastal vibe. There’s a small indoor dining area, but the real treat is sitting outside along the creek on a nice day.

Whether you’re at a picnic table by the water or perched on the back patio, it's the perfect spot to enjoy your meal with a view.

Tip: Get there early as they close up shop earlier than many other restaurants in town (often at 4:45 PM).

If you’re looking to take a little of that coastal flavor home, the adjoining seafood market is packed with fresh and canned seafood. Pick up some canned crab or tuna to go, or grab fresh fish to cook at home.

Either way, Bell Buoy makes it easy to savor a true taste of the Oregon Coast, whether you’re dining in or stocking up on seafood for later.

Buoy's Best Restaurant Information

Please Note: The hours of the restaurant and the seafood market are different. The information listed here is for the restaurant.

• Location: 1800 S Roosevelt Dr in Seaside, Oregon.
• Hours:
  • Friday - Sunday 11 AM - 6 PM
  • Monday - Thursday 11 AM - 4:45 PM
• Get more information at the Bell Buoy website.

If you're a seafood lover, a visit to Buoy’s Best is a must. The journey there is as enjoyable as the destination itself.

• From Bend: Start by taking US-97 N, then merge onto US-26 W toward Portland. After about 170 miles, you'll reach the junction with OR-101 S in Seaside. Turn left, and Buoy’s Best will be just a few miles down the road, offering unbeatable freshness and great service in a setting with all the charm of a local favorite.
• From Eugene: Head north on I-5 N, then take exit 228 for OR-34 W toward Corvallis. Continue on OR-99W N until you merge onto OR-18 W, then follow the coastal highway OR-101 N for about 60 miles. Once in Seaside, turn right onto S Roosevelt Dr and you'll find Buoy’s Best ready to serve up some of the freshest seafood around.
• From Portland: A scenic 75-mile drive along US-26 W will lead you straight to the Oregon Coast. At the OR-101 S junction in Seaside, turn left and in just a few minutes you'll arrive at Buoy’s Best, where locals and visitors alike enjoy the standout seafood, all in a welcoming, no-frills setting.

With routes that wind through forests and coastal beauty, Buoy’s Best is the perfect reward at the end of your drive.

Check out more things to do and places to eat in Seaside with our Guide To Seaside here.