From 5-7, during their happy hour, Highland Pacific offers fresh oysters for $.75 a piece! That’s a steal. The sea’s most famous aphrodisiac are flown in from both coasts and can be ordered in sampler platters so you can taste a variety of what each region has to offer. Some people prefer small and salty, while others like the perfectly plump jewels that slide right out of their shell. No matter your taste, you can find it here.

Sit behind the counter and watch as the chefs shuck your oysters right before you. That’s fresh. Also known for teririfc happy hour deals like $1 oysters, Aqua has a hip vibe with neon lights and clean lines. While oysters aren’t all they have to offer, they sure are one of the best items on the menu at Aqua. Grab your cracker, place an oyster on top and choose from a few different sauces to change things up a bit. MMMMMM.

The most likely spot to come to mind when someone mentions fish tacos is Wahoo’s. The epitome of surf chic, Wahoo’s serves fish tacos fast and cheap but still delicious. Tasty corn tortillas envelope the cod, cabbage and dressing that goes so well with one of their frosty beers. I also love the banzai shrimp bowl while I watch the tv screens showing extreme sports. So casual, you may opt for wearing your bikini top and flip flops. Teriffic service and a place you’ll continue to go week after week. A favorite lunch spot of mine.

Although Gumbo’s is a national chain, I think Denver is lucky to have one. With a killer happy hour including free gumbo and reduced price drinks, the menu also boasts traditional Cajun favorites like crawfish etouffe, stuffed shrimp and fish dishes, rich sauces and spicy blackened filets. The location is conveniently parked on a corner off the 16th St. Mall and Wazee, and it’s facade of windows invites the sunshine in to keep an airy appearance among the dark woods and soft leather interior.

Another chain restaurant specializing in Creole goodies from fried shrimp Po-Boy sandwiches to catfish and oysters Rockefeller, Pappadeaux’s is a casual dining establishment with big portions and big flavors, too. Consider a seafood filled salad for lunch or one of the fisherman’s platters for a sampling of a little of everything. The crab bisque is a great beginning to any meal, and the warm loaves of bread with butter melt in your mouth while you wait for your entree. Get there early, because they get lines out the door. Some locations even offer live music on the patio on weekends.

What can I say about Jax besides I love it? Beginning at happy hour and ending late at night, the business is always booming. For a casual evening, slide into the bar and order a plate of oysters and some of the best fried calamari in Denver. It’s got the perfect amount of batter and spice over moist, delicious slices of squid. The atmosphere can be loud, but the fresh, innovative entrees are truly memorable. Jax also has a location in Boulder, so when you’re there, be sure to check out their second location.

Just try choosing your entree in under 5 minutes. It’s a tough decision with over 30 seafood varieties and 80 different preparations to choose from. There is truly something for everyone on this menu and it’s a seafood lover’s dream come true. I didn’t even know all of the fish listed but was pleased with my snapper and the bites I took from my dining companions. Great service, fresh seafood, and a nice dessert menu with pecan pie and a choclate bag filled with more chocolate makes McCormick & Scmick’s a hot destination.

A happening downtown eatery with an attached bar decorated like a cruise liner(The Crusie Room of course) can be found in McCormick’s. While it offers a great assortment of food, the Baja Fish Tacos are light and refreshing and the price can’t be beat. This is a social bar and grille, so be prepared for some noise and elbows. During the season, McCormick’s offerss $1.00 Irish coffees when it’s snowing. Irish coffee and fish tacos? You never know!

For a fancier evening, and seafood taco, try Ocean’s lobster tacos. How decadent is that? Tender, perfectly seasoned lobster is grilled and served in corn tortillas with a kicky chipotle sauce and cripsy greens. The entire menu is incredible, although pricy, so save this spot for special occasions. The miso cod is also a note-worthy item.