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Welcome to Backwater Fins

Backwater Fins, located at 13982 W Ozello Trail in Crystal River, FL, is a delightful seafood destination known for its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu. Guests can indulge in a variety of flavorful starters, such as the acclaimed Shrimp Cocktail and Conch Fritters, perfect for whetting the appetite. The fish dinners, featuring fresh options like Grouper and Haddock, are highlights that have earned rave reviews for their quality and taste. With friendly service and an expansive selection of local craft beers, Backwater Fins offers a dining experience that is not only delicious but also memorable. A true gem for seafood lovers!

LOCATIONS
  • Backwater Fins
    13982 W Ozello Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429, United States
    13982 W Ozello Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429, United States Hotline: +1 352-794-6000

Welcome to Backwater Fins, a hidden gem nestled along the picturesque Ozello Trail in Crystal River, Florida. With a commitment to fresh, flavorful seafood, this charming eatery has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The inviting ambiance and stunning waterside views set the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.

As you step inside, you're greeted by the warm and friendly service that Backwater Fins prides itself on. Customers, like Cindy Svec, rave about special occasions made even more enjoyable with great food and an impressive selection of local craft beers. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday or simply indulging in a delicious meal, the excellent service enhances the experience.

The menu at Backwater Fins is a seafood lover's dream. With dishes ranging from Grouper Bites at $14.00 to a hearty New York Strip at $25.00, there is something for every palate. The Crab Cake Dinner and Shrimp Basket are popular picks, while the 1lb Peel & Eat Fresh Gulf Shrimp is a must-try for those seeking authenticity and flavor. And let's not forget those decadent Oysters On The Half Shell, a true testament to the freshness this place delivers.

Beyond the mouthwatering entrees, the generous appetizers are perfect for sharing. The Fried Green Tomatoes, priced at just $8.00, offer a delightful Southern twist, while the Crab Balls and Sailor's Delight Combo ensure a savory start to your meal. Benjamin Chewning’s praise of the appetizers showcases the culinary talent that shines through each dish.

But it’s not only the food that captivates diners; the casual atmosphere invites relaxation while listening to the tunes and feeling the cool breeze from the nearby waters. Guests can choose from a cozy indoor setting or enjoy the fresh air outside. Reviews highlight that while the service can be busy, the dedication to providing a friendly environment never falters.

Overall, Backwater Fins promises not just a meal but an experience steeped in flavor and hospitality. Both Adrian Scott-Jones and Kimberly Curtis echo the sentiment of coming back, eager to explore more of the menu while savoring the inviting atmosphere. With affordable prices and a remarkable selection, it’s clear why this spot continues to receive high praise. So, for your next seafood craving or a special celebration, make your way to Backwater Fins—you won’t regret it!

START YOUR REVIEW OF Backwater Fins
Cindy Svec
Cindy Svec

Excellent birthday lunch for Auntie! Turning 88 was never so tasty! The view was excellent; even from inside. Great craft beer choices - local brews. Service was efficient, friendly and entertaining. We will definitely be back.

Benjamin Chewning
Benjamin Chewning

William did a great job, even while already busy. Food was amazing! Get the appetizer, delicious!!

bob harder
bob harder

Best seafood I've had in a long time. Very affordable and great selection. The service was on time, but not over bearing. Overall, I would highly recommend this place.

Adrian Scott-Jones
Adrian Scott-Jones

The location is perfect, music in the front portion louder than one would like but some do! You can move outside or move to the back area! The service is good but not terribly attentive. The food was extremely good, my haddock was perfect given where we were (South). The saddest event, ran out of French fries so a baked potato was the replacement it tasted and looked like at least a day old. Totally avoidable. But all in all the haddock was perfect as was our guests assorted starters and main courses.Absolutely worth a visit, we shall return soon checking on fries before we set out!

Kimberly Curtis
Kimberly Curtis

Great service!! Valerie was the best server we have encountered in many years. Great food and she was very fast and efficient. Very nice especially to kids. We will come back soon!!!

Sherry Ciurczak
Sherry Ciurczak

This place is a true hidden gem! For one thing, Ozello is a knock-your-socks-off beautiful place to visit. The salt marshes alone are worth the trip. The village has an Old Florida vibe in a time when the state’s legendary laid-back rep is fading. Happily, that’s not the case in Ozello! The restaurant is a family-run place in the best sense of the phrase. I don’t know if they’re related to each other, but the staff have an easy familiarity with one another, and their camaraderie extends to the customers. It’s like visiting friends. The food is exceptional and reasonably priced. There’s not a lot of fancy; they serve simple dishes executed skillfully with quality ingredients. The blue crab bisque is outstanding! What are you waiting for? Go!

Abraham C. Banks
Abraham C. Banks

Can’t say enough good about this place, amazing seafood - the “Stuffed Cajun Angels” (see photo) are worth the trip alone. Great Harley ride as well - beer was very cold and also the New England Crab Crowder was excellent. I can’t recommend this place enough, simply amazing!

Tracy Watson
Tracy Watson

This was our first time eating here we were on a mini vacation in the area we came up on this restaurant and decided to try it and it did not disappoint. We ordered drinks crab balls peel and eat shrimp and for the main course we got the backwater swamp. The food was all delicious cooked so well and a great portion as a sea food lover this was one of the best places we have ate! The employees were all very nice and we got very fast service. We even met one of the cooks and told him how well everything was cooked and how great it tasted.the drinks were amazing as well. We will definitely be going back when we visit the area again the only down fall is that it is so far from where we live.