5 Shrimp Chains That Miss the Mark—And 6 That Serve Seafood Worth the Drive-Thru

Here are 5 shrimp-focused chains that fall short in flavor or freshness—and 6 that surprise with seafood quality that’s actually worth the trip (and the drive-thru window).

1. Long John Silver’s

Despite its long history, Long John Silver’s often misses the mark with their shrimp offerings. Picture a promising dish that instead delivers a greasy, over-breaded experience. The shrimp should be the star, yet the flavor is often overshadowed by a crunchy, oily exterior. Many find the texture off-putting, favoring crunch over the delicate seafood taste that diners crave.

For a chain that’s synonymous with seafood, this shortfall is a disappointment. Consistency in quality is crucial, but here it’s more hit-and-miss, leaving seafood lovers longing for more than just empty crunch.

While the chain has its loyal patrons, newcomers expecting a fresh seafood encounter might be left wanting.

2. Captain D’s (Some Locations)

Captain D’s presents a curious case of culinary inconsistency. Some locations serve shrimp that’s passable, but others offer a less appetizing experience. Imagine biting into what should be a fresh, flavorful shrimp only to encounter a soggy, pre-frozen texture.

The variance between franchises is notable, often leading to disappointment for those seeking quality seafood. Instead of tasting the ocean, patrons might find a product that speaks more of filler than fish.

This inconsistency undermines what could be a reliable seafood alternative, leaving diners hoping they’ve picked a franchise that serves the better batch.

3. Popeyes (Crispy Shrimp)

Popeyes might be famous for its chicken, but when it comes to shrimp, the offering tends to fall flat. Customers often find their shrimp overly salty, with portions that are less than generous.

The heavy, sometimes chewy coating masks the shrimp inside, leading to a taste more focused on salt than seafood. For a fast-food chain renowned for bold flavors, their shrimp simply doesn’t measure up.

Diners looking for a seafood fix might be better off exploring other menu options or seeking shrimp elsewhere, where the taste matches the expectation.

4. Church’s Texas Chicken

At Church’s Texas Chicken, the shrimp basket can feel like an afterthought. The shrimp, tiny and enveloped in thick, overpowering breading, offers little in terms of seasoning and seafood satisfaction.

The experience is more about breading than about enjoying the shrimp itself, leading to a lackluster meal. Seafood enthusiasts might find themselves disappointed, seeking out alternatives where the shrimp is celebrated, not overshadowed.

While Church’s excels in chicken, their shrimp fails to impress, coming across as a mere side item rather than a main attraction.

5. Jack in the Box (Seasonal Shrimp Offerings)

Jack in the Box’s shrimp offerings, available only seasonally, are not known for their seafood prowess. Patrons often encounter shrimp that feels rubbery and processed, lacking the fresh, briny bite that fans of seafood hope for.

While the chain may excel in other fast-food domains, their shrimp doesn’t deliver the quality that seafood lovers seek. The sporadic availability doesn’t help, as it leaves little room for improvement in consistency or flavor.

For those craving seafood, Jack in the Box’s shrimp might not satisfy the desire for a genuine seafood experience, leaving diners searching elsewhere.

6. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. brings the spirit of Forrest Gump into every meal, offering a delightful array of shrimp styles. The coconut-crusted and garlic sautéed shrimp are prepared to order, ensuring each dish is fresh and flavorful.

Diners are transported to a world where quality ingredients shine, making every bite a celebration of seafood done right. The focus on craftsmanship and variety makes Bubba Gump a standout.

While primarily a sit-down restaurant, their to-go options maintain the same high standards, making it worth the drive-thru for those craving quality.

7. The Boiling Crab (To-Go Orders)

The Boiling Crab is renowned for its spicy, Cajun-style seafood boils, and their shrimp is a standout feature. Fresh, juicy, and full of flavor, the shrimp comes in bags filled with corn, potatoes, and a rich, spicy sauce.

This setup offers a feast for the senses, with each bite revealing the freshness and care put into every order. Even as a to-go option, the quality remains unwavering, providing a satisfying seafood experience.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice and a lot of flavor, The Boiling Crab’s shrimp is an indulgence worth seeking out.

8. Red Lobster (Takeout Option)

Though Red Lobster has mixed dine-in reviews, its takeout shrimp options rarely disappoint. The shrimp scampi and Walt’s Favorite Fried Shrimp maintain their quality, traveling well from restaurant to home.

Each dish is prepared with consistency, ensuring that the flavors are intact and satisfactory. This reliability makes Red Lobster a convenient choice for seafood lovers on the go.

While dining in might be hit or miss, taking the shrimp to-go offers a delightful experience, making it an option worth considering for those craving a dependable shrimp fix.

9. Shrimp Basket (Southeast U.S.)

Shrimp Basket is a beloved Gulf Coast staple, celebrated for its diverse shrimp offerings. Whether fried, grilled, or blackened, each shrimp is served with house-made sauces and seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors.

The emphasis on quality and preparation sets this chain apart, providing a genuine taste of the coast. Patrons delight in the variety and care that goes into each dish.

For those in the Southeast U.S., Shrimp Basket presents an authentic seafood experience, making it a must-visit for shrimp enthusiasts seeking both flavor and freshness.

10. Seafood Express & More (Regional Chains)

Seafood Express & More, a small regional chain, specializes in quick, fresh seafood, often featuring daily catches. Their shrimp is typically made-to-order, bursting with flavor and reflecting the quality of coastal ingredients.

The chain’s commitment to freshness and speedy service makes it a favored choice for seafood lovers looking for convenience without sacrificing quality. Each plate offers a taste of the ocean, satisfying those who crave authentic seafood.

For a quick and flavorful shrimp fix, Seafood Express & More delivers an experience that resonates with seafood fans across coastal regions.

11. Pollo Campero (Shrimp Available Seasonally)

While Pollo Campero is primarily known for its chicken, its seasonal shrimp offering surprises with quality and flavor. The shrimp is seasoned with Latin spice blends and fried to perfection, offering a crispy, non-greasy texture.

This unexpected delight stands out in a menu dominated by poultry, showcasing the chain’s dedication to diverse and flavorful offerings. Diners find the shrimp to be a pleasant diversion from the usual fare.

When in season, Pollo Campero’s shrimp is a tasty alternative for seafood lovers, providing a spicy twist that excites the palate.