Seafood in Middletown doesn’t get talked about enough. But even in this landlocked stretch of the Hudson Valley, you’re going to have days when you can’t look another burger in the eye. Sure, you could settle for a $22 plate of rubbery shrimp. Or you could eat something briny, surprising, and perfectly cooked. These are Middletown’s exceptional seafood spots right now. The ones that can reform a hard-earned “it’s just fish” attitude.
Red Lobster
$$ | (845) 343-3228 | WEBSITE
The biscuits at this seafood chain in Middletown change occasionally, but they should always be on your table. We’ve loved the classic Cheddar Bay Biscuits in the past—warm, buttery rounds that practically melt in your mouth. But lately they’re serving a version that’s slightly less airy, with a texture that’s more substantial than before. Whatever biscuits they’re baking, order them. These people know their way around dough.
Franco Di Roma
$ | (845) 342-3552 | WEBSITE
We’d probably eat pizza every day if it were topped with perfectly melted mozzarella, wonderfully garlicky knots, and a rich tomato sauce. But until other Middletown restaurants follow Franco Di Roma’s lead, we’ll keep going to the spacious Italian spot. It’s on the menu for lunch and dinner, and perfect for when you don’t want the hassle of complicated dishes that do nothing but take up real estate on your plate.
3 Ninja Express
$ | (845) 394-0234 | WEBSITE
Maybe you’ve imagined a fancy hibachi chef flipping shrimp into his hat, but never about delivery sushi. That will change when you try 3 Ninja Express’s fresh, satisfying Middletown roll. (Don’t let ‘delivery’ fool you. This food tastes nothing like lukewarm takeout.) This affordable Middletown spot mixes hibachi combos, tempura fried cheesecake, and lunch specials with rice, veggies, spring rolls, and California rolls.
There’s flavor in every bite, as well as a hot meal arriving right at your door.
Don Julio Restaurant
$ | (845) 381-1253 | WEBSITE
Whether you’re craving a hearty-but-not-too-greasy sandwich, or just want to enjoy a meal that feels both generous and well-cooked, Don Julio’s steak sandwich is the way to go. Tender steak layers with fresh ingredients on a soft roll, served alongside arroz con pollo and chicken empanadas. It’s satisfying on its own, but you should probably save room for the Oreo cheesecake, too.
DeStefano’s Olde Erie
$$ | (845) 344-3743 | WEBSITE
If garlic oil and showers of Romano cheese speak to you on a personal level, DeStefano’s Olde Erie has a calamari that you’ll want to frame like it’s your favorite family photo. This is not one of those appetizers that looks better than it tastes. The crispy batter and generous cheese coating make everything indulgent, and the garlic oil gives the dish a savory, unforgettable element.
YiShan Korean Restaurant
$$ | (845) 775-4725 | WEBSITE
At YiShan Korean Restaurant, the beef tendon soup has more flavor than broth. So, fine, it’s not a soup in the same way as the other clear bowls are on this list. But it still counts because it’s fantastic. And soups, like comfort, are a warm embrace. Picture tender beef tendon, rich bone broth, scallions, and spices like garlic and ginger, all simmered for hours. There’s a subtle depth of umami, while the noodles and vegetables give it a satisfying chew.
Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar
$$ | (845) 207-8820 | WEBSITE
Middletown’s Hook & Reel is mostly known for its seafood. But they also make a great garlic butter sauce full of rich flavor, perfect seasoning, and aromatic herbs. So it’s an ideal counterpart to a plate dripping with shrimp and crayfish. You could always add Dungeness crab to the mix, but the sauce stands on its own just fine.