Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Dungeness Bay Seafood House offers an exceptional dining experience that celebrates the bounty of the sea. Renowned for its dedication to freshness and quality, the restaurant’s menu is a vibrant showcase of Pacific Northwest flavors, blending traditional seafood fare with innovative culinary techniques.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the Dungeness Bay Seafood House menu is a journey through some of the finest seafood selections available, paired with carefully curated sides, sauces, and beverages to complement every dish.
The menu is thoughtfully crafted to cater to a diverse range of palates, from those seeking simple, classic preparations to adventurous diners eager to try unique combinations and seasonal specials. Every plate tells a story of sustainable fishing practices, local ingredient sourcing, and culinary passion.
Dungeness Bay Seafood House is not just a restaurant; it’s a destination for seafood lovers who appreciate authenticity and creativity in every bite.
Whether you’re craving the iconic Dungeness crab, fresh oysters, or a hearty seafood chowder, the menu promises a memorable experience. This comprehensive breakdown will guide you through the rich offerings and highlight the distinctive qualities that make each section of the menu stand out.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Dungeness Bay Seafood House sets the tone for an exceptional meal. Designed to awaken your palate, these starters blend fresh seafood with vibrant flavors and textures.
They offer a perfect introduction to the culinary craftsmanship that defines the restaurant.
Starters range from light, refreshing dishes to more indulgent options, all showcasing the best of local ingredients. Many dishes feature seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every visit brings something new and exciting.
The menu emphasizes shareability, making it ideal for groups or those who enjoy sampling multiple tastes.
Notable offerings include the classic Steamed Dungeness Crab Clusters, served with house-made garlic butter, and the Smoked Salmon Crostini, which balances smoky richness with fresh herbs and lemon zest.
For those seeking something a little different, the Spicy Calamari Rings bring a delightful kick, perfectly paired with a cooling aioli dip.
Popular Starters
- Clam Chowder Shot Glasses: Mini servings of creamy, hearty clam chowder, perfect for sampling or starting a meal.
- Oyster Rockefeller: Baked oysters topped with spinach, cheese, and breadcrumbs, delivering a luxurious texture and flavor.
- Crab Cakes: Made with fresh local crab, lightly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection.
- Seafood Ceviche: A refreshing mix of raw fish marinated in citrus juices, accented with cilantro and diced peppers.
“The appetizers at Dungeness Bay Seafood House are a celebration of the sea’s freshness, expertly prepared to excite every sense.” – Local Food Critic
Signature Crab Dishes
At the heart of the menu lies the famed Dungeness crab, a regional delicacy that is both a culinary treasure and a symbol of the Pacific Northwest. The crab dishes here highlight the natural sweetness and tender texture of this prized crustacean.
Each crab dish is prepared with care, ensuring that the flavor remains the star. Cooking methods vary from simple steaming to elaborate preparations involving spices, herbs, or complementary sauces.
The menu also offers whole crab options for those wanting a more hands-on dining experience.
Popular choices include the Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab, which enhances the crab’s sweetness without overpowering it, and the Crab Linguine, where the delicate meat is tossed with fresh pasta, olive oil, and herbs for a satisfying entrée.
Crab Dish Comparisons
| Dish | Preparation | Flavor Profile | Serving Style |
| Steamed Dungeness Crab | Simple steaming with lemon | Sweet, natural crab flavor | Whole crab with drawn butter |
| Garlic Butter Crab | Sauteed in garlic butter sauce | Rich, buttery, with garlic aroma | Crab legs and claws, cracked |
| Crab Linguine | Fresh crab tossed with pasta | Light, herby, with pasta texture | Plated entrée with garnish |
| Spicy Crab Cakes | Pan-fried with spices | Spicy and crispy outside, tender inside | Individual cakes with dipping sauce |
“Dungeness crab at this house is treated with reverence—each preparation honors its delicate sweetness.” – Executive Chef
Fresh Oysters and Shellfish
Fresh oysters and shellfish form a cornerstone of the menu, emphasizing the restaurant’s commitment to sourcing the best local catches. These offerings provide a range of textures and flavors, from briny and crisp to sweet and buttery.
The oyster selection rotates frequently, reflecting seasonal availability and regional varieties. Diners can enjoy oysters on the half shell, grilled, baked, or incorporated into signature dishes.
Other shellfish options, such as mussels, clams, and scallops, add variety and depth.
One standout dish is the Chargrilled Oysters with Herb Butter, which delivers a smoky, rich flavor. Meanwhile, the Steamed Mussels in White Wine offers a lighter, fragrant option ideal for pairing with crusty bread or a glass of crisp white wine.
Shellfish Highlights
- Raw Oysters on the Half Shell: Served with mignonette, cocktail sauce, and fresh lemon wedges.
- Baked Oyster Sampler: A trio featuring Rockefeller, garlic parmesan, and spicy chipotle styles.
- Scallop Ceviche: Tender scallops cured in citrus juice with fresh herbs and diced vegetables.
- Clams Casino: Baked clams topped with bacon and breadcrumbs for a savory bite.
Hearty Soups and Chowders
Soups and chowders at Dungeness Bay Seafood House offer comfort and richness, drawing on classic recipes elevated with fresh seafood and local ingredients. These dishes are perfect for warming up on cooler days or as a satisfying start to any meal.
The standout is the New England Clam Chowder, thick and creamy with generous chunks of clam and potato. The house also offers a lighter Seafood Broth Soup, filled with a variety of shellfish and fish, simmered with vegetables and herbs.
Each soup is crafted to balance depth of flavor with the natural sweetness of seafood, avoiding heaviness while maintaining a satisfying richness. Seasonal variations often introduce new ingredients, keeping the selection fresh and intriguing.
Comparing Chowders and Soups
| Soup | Base | Main Ingredients | Texture |
| New England Clam Chowder | Cream-based | Clams, potatoes, onions, bacon | Thick and creamy |
| Seafood Broth Soup | Clear broth | Mixed fish, clams, mussels, herbs | Light and brothy |
| Crab Bisque | Creamy bisque | Crab meat, cream, sherry | Silky and smooth |
| Smoked Salmon Chowder | Broth with cream | Smoked salmon, potatoes, dill | Medium thickness |
“The chowders here are a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, comforting yet exciting.” – Regular Patron
Land-Based Entrées and Alternatives
While seafood remains the focus, Dungeness Bay Seafood House also caters to guests seeking land-based options or alternatives due to dietary preferences. These dishes maintain the same level of quality and attention to detail as the seafood items.
Offerings include premium steaks, poultry, and vegetarian entrees, each designed to complement the coastal dining experience. Ingredients are locally sourced whenever possible, emphasizing freshness and flavor.
Grilled Filet Mignon is a popular choice, cooked to order and accompanied by seasonal vegetables and a red wine reduction. For a lighter alternative, the Wild Mushroom Risotto offers a rich, creamy texture with earthy flavors.
Vegetarian options also include salads and pasta dishes, thoughtfully prepared to satisfy diverse tastes.
Sample Land-Based Menu Items
- Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: Served with mint jus and roasted root vegetables.
- Pan-Seared Duck Breast: Accompanied by cherry compote and wild rice pilaf.
- Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Marinated and served over quinoa salad.
- Seasonal Vegetable Stir-fry: A vibrant mix of local produce with Asian-inspired sauces.
Salads and Light Fare
For those seeking lighter options without compromising on taste, the salad and light fare section offers fresh, vibrant dishes. These plates combine crisp greens, fresh seafood, and house-made dressings to deliver balanced nutrition and flavor.
Salads often include ingredients sourced from local farms, featuring seasonal vegetables, nuts, and fruits. Seafood elements such as smoked salmon, grilled shrimp, or crab meat add a satisfying protein boost.
The Seared Ahi Tuna Salad is a highlight, boasting tender, rare tuna atop mixed greens with a tangy soy-ginger dressing. Another favorite is the Crab Louie Salad, a classic Pacific Northwest dish featuring fresh crab meat, hard-boiled egg, and avocado.
Salad Options
- House Mixed Greens: Seasonal vegetables with vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad with Grilled Shrimp: Classic Caesar with a seafood twist.
- Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, walnuts.
- Quinoa and Arugula Salad: Light grains with peppery greens and lemon dressing.
“The salads here are anything but ordinary; each bite is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully composed.” – Nutrition Expert
Desserts and Sweet Endings
No meal at Dungeness Bay Seafood House is complete without indulging in the dessert offerings. The menu features a range of sweet treats that balance richness with freshness, providing a satisfying conclusion to the seafood feast.
Popular desserts highlight seasonal fruits, decadent chocolates, and classic preparations with a modern twist. The Lemon Tart with Fresh Berries offers a bright, tangy contrast to the savory meal, while the Chocolate Lava Cake provides a warm, indulgent finish.
For those seeking lighter options, the Berry Sorbet Trio cleanses the palate with refreshing, naturally sweet flavors. Each dessert is crafted to complement the overall dining experience, emphasizing quality ingredients and presentation.
Popular Dessert Choices
- Key Lime Pie: Tart and creamy with a graham cracker crust.
- Classic Crème Brûlée: Silky custard topped with caramelized sugar.
- Seasonal Fruit Cobbler: Warm baked fruits with a crumbly topping.
- Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: Light and creamy with berry compote.
Beverage Pairings and Wine List
The beverage program at Dungeness Bay Seafood House thoughtfully complements the menu, offering a curated selection of wines, craft beers, and specialty cocktails. The focus is on enhancing the natural flavors of the seafood and other dishes through expert pairings.
The wine list features a well-rounded array of whites, reds, and sparkling options, with an emphasis on Pacific Northwest vineyards. Crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are popular with lighter seafood dishes, while fuller-bodied reds pair well with richer crab and steak options.
Specialty cocktails incorporate fresh herbs, citrus, and local spirits, adding a creative touch to the dining experience. Non-alcoholic options include artisanal sodas, freshly brewed teas, and house-made lemonades.
Wine and Beverage Highlights
| Beverage | Type | Recommended Pairing | Flavor Notes |
| Pacific Northwest Chardonnay | White Wine | Garlic Butter Crab | Buttery, oaky, medium-bodied |
| Sauvignon Blanc | White Wine | Raw Oysters | Crisp, citrusy, herbaceous |
| Pinot Noir | Red Wine | Grilled Filet Mignon | Light-bodied, fruity, earthy |
| House-made Ginger Mule | Cocktail | Spicy Calamari Rings | Spicy, refreshing, citrus notes |
“The carefully curated beverage list elevates every dish, turning a meal into a complete sensory journey.” – Sommelier
Exploring the Dungeness Bay Seafood House menu reveals a deep respect for quality ingredients and culinary tradition, balanced with creativity and local flair. Each section of the menu is thoughtfully designed to offer something special, whether it’s the delicate sweetness of fresh crab, the briny freshness of oysters, or the comforting richness of chowders and desserts.
The diversity within the menu ensures that every diner finds dishes that resonate with their preferences, while the beverage pairings enhance the overall experience. By maintaining a focus on sustainability and seasonality, Dungeness Bay Seafood House not only delights the palate but also honors the environment and community that support its offerings.
Dining here is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the best the ocean and region have to offer, leaving guests eager to return for more.
