When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Mario's Seafood
Why Mario's Seafood is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mario's Seafood in Austin is a fantastic place for friends to meet up and enjoy an authentic and vibrant Mexican seafood dining experience. Since opening in 2021, this restaurant has become a notable destination in the St. Johns neighborhood, praised for its generous portions and lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The menu features a diverse range of traditional Mexican mariscos, such as the famous 7 Mare Sopa—a spicy seafood soup loaded with oysters, crab, mussels, squid, and octopus—and unique takes on ceviche and oysters like the Culichi Style Oysters topped with shrimp ceviche and aquachile. Guests have highlighted the freshness and high quality of the seafood, which is skillfully prepared to bring out bold and memorable flavors. The restaurant also boasts an extensive bar with large, potent drinks that complement the food offerings perfectly. Beyond food, Mario's Seafood is known for friendly and attentive service, often making every visit feel welcoming and comfortable. The unpretentious environment and authentic cuisine make it an ideal spot for casual lunch outings or lively dinners with friends seeking genuine Mexican coastal flavors in Austin.
Here's what people think of Mario's Seafood
As of recent, Mario's Seafood holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1562 reviews.
Customer reviews of Mario's Seafood generally paint a positive picture, as reflected in its strong overall rating of 4.5 stars from over 1500 reviews. Patrons often praise the authenticity and freshness of the cuisine, calling it some of the best Mexican seafood they've enjoyed in Austin or even compared to coastal regions like Cozumel. Positive comments frequently mention the generous portion sizes, flavorful dishes, and the inviting, laid-back atmosphere complemented by attentive and personable service—especially noting servers like Ms. Ruby who enhance the dining experience with their professionalism and warmth. Reviewers also appreciate the drink offerings and the value for money the restaurant provides. On the other hand, some criticisms revolve around ambient noise levels that can make hearing television programs difficult, and a few isolated negative comments exist but are minimal relative to the volume of positive feedback. Mario's Seafood has also shown a commitment to accessibility both in their physical space and digital platforms, which some reviewers have acknowledged appreciatively. In conclusion, Mario's Seafood stands out as a welcoming and delicious spot where friends can enjoy authentic Mexican seafood with excellent service and a friendly atmosphere, despite minor areas where improvements could enhance the overall experience further.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jobie Alcaraz
Mario’s Seafood is a must-visit if you’re a fan of bold flavors and fresh seafood! I had the Caldo 7 Mares, and it was absolutely incredible—a spicy, soul-warming seafood stew loaded with crab, shrimp, mussels, octopus, squid, fish, scallops, and hearty veggies. Served with bread, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. My husband went for the grilled skirt steak. Perfectly marinated and grilled, served with caramelized peppers and onions, charro beans, and flavorful shrimp fried rice—it was a full-on feast. We also shared the Oysters Ala Bahia—baked oysters topped with crab, shrimp, chorizo, roasted peppers, and melty chihuahua cheese. So rich, savory, and satisfying. Every bite was bursting with flavor. Can’t wait to go back and try more! 🦐🔥🥩🦪
Amber Gonzales
this place was beyond amazing! As a native Austinite, I have a deep craving for seafood, which has been unfulfilled until today! The Food here is hands down spectacular and I will be finding every reason to make it back to this restaurant from San Marcos! Our waitress BELEN was so sweet! between all the food we had at the tab was only $73 and some change. Whoever brought this restaurant in knew exactly what they were doing, when they did it!!! highly recommended !!!!! oh I almost forgot to mention Bad Bunny on the playlist lets go!
Donna Jordan
It was very delicious! I can't recall the name of the dish but we enjoyed it immensely. It came in a giant granite bowl. Definitely big enough to share. Fajita meat, shrimp brochette, fried cheese and hot sausage. And packed with people enjoying the food and music.
Adam Stackhouse
Our server was super friendly and attentive! Huge menu with a great variety of food! The bowl i got was great and full fo flavor. Only complaint in the calamari! Not a fan! Not your traditional calamari. Very fishy and rubbery peices( i know thats how calamari can be, but something was off about this one)
glenn amistad
Thank you Marleny for excellent service. Very attentive and very friendly. Definitely coming back. Great food.
How to reach Mario's Seafood
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Why Mario's Seafood may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mario's Seafood with your friends? Mario's Seafood stands out as an exceptional destination to gather with friends or family because it perfectly combines authentic, flavorful seafood cuisine with a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and connection. Whether you’re craving fresh Mexican-style mariscos or robust Peruvian seafood dishes, Mario’s delivers generous portions loaded with fresh ingredients that satisfy every palate. The restaurant is praised for its lively yet low-key ambiance, making it a comfortable spot where groups can enjoy good conversation without being overwhelmed by noise or a stuffy environment. Coupled with excellent and attentive service, this creates a compelling reason to choose Mario’s Seafood as a meetup location. Additionally, the extensive bar menu, featuring large and potent drinks, ensures that your evenings here can be festive and memorable. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a weekend dinner, Mario’s manages to be a crowd-pleaser that balances quality, value, and conviviality, making it ideal for rallying your group for a convivial outing.
What activities can you enjoy at Mario’s Seafood for a group meetup? Mario's Seafood is much more than just a place to eat; it offers a vibrant culinary experience that fosters social engagement and enjoyment. The restaurant's menu naturally lends itself to sharing, with many dishes designed in generous portions, perfect for groups to sample and explore a variety of flavors. Ordering dishes like the famous "7 Mare Sopa," a rich and spicy seafood soup featuring oysters, crab, mussels, squid, and octopus, or the crowd-pleasing shrimp fried rice allows everyone at the table to partake and exchange tastes. This communal dining approach encourages interaction and enhances the shared experience. Beyond the food, the atmosphere supports group activities like celebrating special occasions or casual catch-ups. The attentive service keeps the group feeling catered to, while the inclusion of multiple TVs playing sports or popular programs helps keep the setting engaging without becoming distracting. The extensive and diverse bar offerings also facilitate social fun, turning any meetup into an opportunity to toast friendships.
Why is Mario’s Seafood perfect for large or small parties? Mario’s Seafood is ideal for both intimate groups and large gatherings due to its thoughtfully arranged seating and accommodating staff. The layout balances cozy spots perfect for smaller groups or families, with larger tables that can easily host bigger parties without feeling cramped. The environment is casual yet lively, making everyone feel welcome no matter the size of the group. Additionally, the kitchen is able to handle large orders efficiently, so groups don’t have to wait excessively long to enjoy their meals together. Mario’s approach to serving hearty, sharable dishes also minimizes waiting times and maximizes satisfaction, as guests tend to order multiple plates that come out fairly quickly. The staff’s reputation for friendly and responsive service reinforces this, as they help coordinate the experience to ensure all needs are met promptly. For anyone planning a social gathering, from birthday celebrations to casual reunions, Mario’s Seafood offers a hassle-free and enjoyable venue.
What kinds of dishes make Mario’s Seafood stand out for group dining? The culinary strength of Mario’s Seafood lies in its authentic blend of Mexican and Peruvian seafood specialties, crafted with fresh ingredients and an emphasis on bold but balanced flavors. Signature dishes such as the “Lomo Saltado” — a Peruvian beef stir-fry with onions and tomatoes — alongside “Chupe de Camerones,” a flavorful shrimp soup with potatoes and rice, showcase the varied and rich menu options that appeal to diverse tastes within any group. The seafood itself is prepared expertly, maintaining freshness and natural flavor rather than overwhelming with heavy seasoning. This respect for quality ingredients allows groups to savor the nuances of each dish and encourages sharing across the table. The portion sizes are notably generous, making it easy for groups to mix and match dishes. Popular starters like ceviche provide a refreshing start, while mains packed with octopus, mussels, or fried snapper cater to those craving more substantial meals. The culinary fusion, rich traditions, and variety make Mario’s Seafood a memorable dining experience for all participants.
How does the ambiance at Mario’s Seafood enhance group meetups? The atmosphere at Mario’s Seafood strikes the perfect balance between energetic and relaxed, creating an inviting environment for groups to feel comfortable and engaged. The restaurant’s casual dress code and spacious seating encourage guests to come as they are, fostering a down-to-earth vibe that families, friends, and coworkers can all enjoy. Despite the lively buzz typical on weekends, the noise level remains manageable, allowing conversation to flow without excessive shouting. The friendly and welcoming staff further contribute to a warm ambiance as they greet diners with smiles and attentive care. This combination of factors helps guests feel valued and at ease, making the restaurant a great space for celebrations, group outings, or simply enjoying good food together. TVs showing sports or other popular programming provide additional entertainment without overwhelming the experience, making Mario’s Seafood a well-rounded venue for socializing.
What should you know about logistics and convenience for group visits? Planning a meetup at Mario’s Seafood includes considering practical factors like parking and peak times. The restaurant, known for its popularity especially on weekends, can get quite busy, so arriving during less crowded hours such as mid-afternoon or later in the evening is advisable to avoid long waits. Although the parking lot on site is limited, there is ample neighborhood parking nearby, typically just a short walk away, which is convenient even for larger groups. Reservations or early arrival can ease the process during busy times. The restaurant's location is accessible and easy to find along a main interstate, adding to the overall convenience for group travelers coming from various parts of the city. These logistical details ensure that your gathering can proceed smoothly without stress, leaving more room to focus on enjoying the food and company.
How does Mario’s Seafood cater to diverse tastes within a group? One of the key strengths of Mario’s Seafood is its menu diversity that caters not only to seafood lovers but also to those who prefer meat or vegetarian options. While seafood dominates the offerings—presented through dishes such as ceviche, seafood soups, and grilled fish—the menu also includes flavorful meat dishes like the popular Lomo Saltado, appealing to guests with different dietary preferences. The kitchen’s fusion of Hispanic and Chinese influences enriches the menu with creative and fresh interpretations that keep everyone interested. For those looking for lighter or healthier choices, there are heart-healthy options available as well. Kids are welcome too, with dishes and atmosphere suited for families to enjoy. This wide-ranging menu ensures every guest in your group finds something satisfying, making Mario’s Seafood an inclusive dining choice.
What makes the service at Mario’s Seafood stand out for group gatherings? Exceptional service is a hallmark of Mario’s Seafood, especially important for group dynamics where timely attention and coordination matter. Many reviews highlight the attentiveness and personable nature of the staff, who go out of their way to make guests feel welcomed and supported. Servers are knowledgeable about the menu and able to recommend dishes based on group preferences, ensuring everyone is happy with their selections. The staff also facilitates smooth service even when handling large group orders, preventing delays or confusion that could detract from the enjoyment. Whether it’s accommodating special dietary requests or helping manage drink orders, the team at Mario’s contributes significantly to a seamless and enjoyable dining experience. Friendly, professional service adds a layer of comfort and reliability that encourages repeat visits with friends and family alike.
Why is Mario’s Seafood a worthwhile venue for celebrations and special occasions? Hosting a celebration or special meetup at Mario’s Seafood ensures a festive yet comfortable experience due to its inviting food, ample seating, and attentive staff. The restaurant’s reputation for generous portions and flavorful dishes allows groups to feast without worrying about limited options or inadequate servings. The casual ambiance takes the pressure off formal dress or behavior, letting guests relax and enjoy themselves fully. The bar’s well-crafted cocktails and large drinks enhance the celebratory feel, providing excellent toast-worthy options. Additionally, the combination of fresh seafood specialties and flavorful Peruvian dishes ensures that the occasion feels unique and memorable. Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or simply a get-together, Mario’s Seafood delivers on all fronts to make your event special and hassle-free.
Overall, Mario’s Seafood’s blend of authentic cuisine, hospitable service, inviting atmosphere, and thoughtful group accommodations firmly establish it as a premier choice for meetups with friends or family. Its ability to satisfy various tastes, combined with a lively yet comfortable setting, makes it a standout venue worth rallying around for any social occasion.