Having lived on the coast in Charleston for eight years, I developed a serious affinity for all things ocean-dwelling, and I was a little worried that I would suffer from seafood withdrawals in Denver. But just because we're a bit landlocked, doesn't mean we can't gorge on freshly caught treasures right out of the sea. From oysters on the half shell and king crab legs to fried catfish and clam chowder, if it swims, you can catch it at these mouthwatering Mile High eateries. If you've ever wondered what the best seafood restaurants in Denver are, here you go!

1. Izakaya Den

Izakaya means "sake house with small plates," which is exactly what you'll find at this fantastic restaurant on South Pearl Street. They offer sushi and traditional Japanese seafood dishes, as well as internationally-inspired cuisine using flavors from around the globe. For imaginative eats in a sophisticated atmosphere, Izakaya Den is the ultimate!

2. TAG

This spot on Larimer Square focuses on "Continental Social Food," serving perfectly shareable dishes in an interactive dining space that encourages community. Chef Troy Guard combines classic and contemporary culinary arts to create dishes using local ingredients and international inspirations that will delight the taste buds and the heart strings.

3. Lola Coastal Mexican

"While her spirit was born on the beaches of Mexico, Lola’s roots have always been firmly planted in Denver." Stop by this eatery in the Highlands for Coastal Mexican cuisine made with local, sustainable ingredients. Where else in Denver can you get Spanish Octopus, Lobster Tamales, Seared Ahi Tortas, and Baja-Style Whole Red Snapper? Only at Lola!

4. Jax Fish House

Since 1996, Jax Fish House has been bringing fresh, sustainable seafood to the hip crowds of LoDo. They've got a world-famous chef counter featuring items like steamed mussels, baked clams, gumbos, and chowders, as well as a raw bar with crabs, clams, lobsters, and up to a dozen types of oysters, all flown in daily. Fresh off the boat, indeed!

5. Chowder Room

Did someone say chowdah!? This laid-back joint on South Broadway offers "casual, comfortable, modern seafood" that's "like kissing the ocean on the lips." Shellfish platters, Hawaiian poke, New England style chowder, coconut shrimp, and seared sea scallops are just a few of the MANY choices on their menu. You name, it, they've got it at the Chowder Room!

6. NOLA Voodoo Tavern and Perks

If you want soulful seafood with a cajun twist, this cool neighborhood spot northeast of City Park has just what you're looking for and then some. They've got Vivian's gumbo made with mom's recipe, Emma's crawfish étouffée from grandma, and other creole classics like shrimp po'boys and fried catfish dinners. Wash it all down with a hurricane, and you'll feel like you're in N'awlins!

7. Cafe Brazil

Cafe Brazil is serving up seafood with South American flare and unique dishes with robust global flavors that you can't get anywhere else in town. Ever had prawn and scallops simmered in a sweet spicy sauce of tomatoes, Brazilian chiles, mango, and passion fruit? Sim por favor!

8. Ocean Prime

This sophisticated sanctuary of seafood on Larimer Square is the perfect spot to splurge on freshly caught, mouthwatering morsels from the sea. Perhaps a smoking shellfish tower and oysters on the half shell, followed by twin lobster tails with drawn butter or king salmon with lobster and gnocchi? Sea you there!

9. Stoic & Genuine

In LoDo's lively Union Station is another sublime upscale seafood hot spot, known for their exquisitely fresh and eye-fetching raw bar and open kitchen. Stoic and Genuine is the perfect spot for a seafood date night in a vibrant atmosphere.

10. Angelo's Taverna

Who knew that a pizza parlor and oyster bar would be such a beautiful marriage? This popular rustic-chic eatery in Cap Hill has all your favorite Italian dishes, as well as delectably delicious seafood options like chargrilled oysters, lobster gnocchi, and mussels with chorizo and chipotle. Stop by for their daily happy hour from 3-6pm for $1 oysters and $1 off draft beers. That's a steal!

Did we miss any of your favorite seafood spots? Share them with us in the comments!