Gulf Shores is a city on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The best time to visit the city is March through May and September through November. During these periods, travelers can enjoy the sweet spots outside the busy summertime. You can enjoy swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, and then enjoy a meal in some of the best places to eat in Gulf Shores.
Destin and Gulf Shores are two very similar cities. Both beaches are alike, but for entertainment, there is a different vibe. Gulf Shores is a more laid-back city. And that is great for people who love to relax and chill.
What is Gulf Shores famous for?
Gulf Shores in Alabama is famous for its pristine white beaches. And then you have some amazing hiking trails where you can learn more about the flora and fauna in the area.
The Gulf State Park covers more than 28 miles and takes you through nine different ecosystems. Definitely worth a visit.
As for the food, no trip to the South is complete without Gumbo. Depending on where you try it, the southern stew consists of a combination of chicken, shrimp, and sausage. When you try it in the best places to eat in Gulf Shores, you get regional catches like crawfish, oysters, crab meat, and other fish.
Best Restaurants in Gulf Shores
Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Café
We start off with a cute little café located right on the beach. Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Café is ideal for those who want to get a lunch fresh from the sea.
There are both indoor and outdoor dining areas. You can even take away food during busy periods. In any case, you can enjoy a variety of seafood kitchen in the comfort of the restaurant or out on the beach.
Some of the popular dishes include breaded gator tails, seafood gumbo, fried pecan striped pangus, and steamed crab claws.
Lulus Gulf Shores Restaurant
Here is a dining establishment where you can take your entire family with you. It is great for kids and has some of the best food in the Gulf Shores. There is even an entire kids’ playing area.
Do not worry,Lulus Gulf Shores restaurant has something for everyone. Even if you have a food allergy, ask for a special menu and can enjoy a safe meal.
Beach House Kitchen and Cocktails
Head over to Beach House Kitchen and Cocktails for a variety of dishes prepared with fresh produce and Gulf shores seafood.
This is another establishment with a super casual atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals. If you want a light bite and a tasty cocktail after a long day at the beach, this is the place to go.
And do not ignore the happy hour. That is when you go nuts!
Fish River Grill
Fish River Grill in Gulf Shores is the third establishment of the franchise. They have one in nearby Fairhope and Foley. Fish River Grill is praised as the original seafood restaurant of Baldwin County.
They also praise themselves as the self-proclaimed funky junky redneck joint. The place is famous for the Cajun gator bites, burgers, and swamp soup.
If you want authentic Southern seafood kitchen, you should definitely pay them a visit.
The Southern Grind at Indigo
This is where craft coffee meets nautical modern chic. Located next to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry, the coffee house is the best place to go for a fantastic breakfast and amazinglunch. But the killer coffee is why you will stay and come back for more.
There are some unique selections, like salted caramel coffee. This coffee also sells items like books from local authors, beachwear, and more.
Hangout
Hangout is a favorite among Facebook people in Gulf Shores. Why? Because the establishment has live bands and renowned festivals. Not to mention, a great daiquiri bar.
All of that and something for the kids. You cannot go wrong here. Try the pirates and princess breakfast if you want an authentic dish.
Kitty’s Kafe
This establishment serves hearty home-style cooking with a dose of Southern hospitality. Call it your favorite breakfast and brunch spot if you want to hang out with locals.
Conveniently located within Pelican Place, they serve breakfast fry-ups all day and some shrimp sandwiches, pancakes, chicken fried steak, and freshly baked blue cheese biscuits.
It might be the best place if you are trying to watch what you eat. But it is definitely a good place to show your love for food.
Hog Wild Beach and BBQ
If you are asking where do locals eat in Gulf Shores, this is the place. It is Hog Wild Beach and Barbecue. Their signature dish might be the slow-smoked meat, which is super tender.
But you also have to try the famous White BBQ sauce, made from scratch. Besides the typical barbecue menu, Hog Wild Beach and BBQ offers wings, shrimp, fried picklechips, nachos, and tacos.
You can pair any entrée with popular dishes like mac and cheese, and you have a winning formula.
Flying Harpoon
This restaurant combines New Orleans cuisine with fresh Gulf seafood. It is a local favorite with food not the only thing that brings locals in. That would be live music, karaoke, and a happy hour from 11 am to 7 pm.
Some of the signature dishes include the classic Creole Seafood-Stuffed tater.
The Original Oyster House
The waterfront seafood restaurant is something locals will tell you to visit. And it is not the fresh seafood that makes it amazing.
It is the signature dessert, their whole key lime pie. There are also some little shops around the oyster bar.
King Neptunes
The small local joint is run by Gulf Coast native Al Sawyer. You will probably find him hanging out during lunchtime. He always has a story to tell.
His establishment King Neptunes has the best crab claws in town. Make sure to leave room for dessert and try the fried cheesecake.
Ginny Lane Bar and Grill
There are two options you can try here. You can sit outside and overlook the water and boats at the marina. Or you can enjoy the inside and the family-friendly atmosphere. No matter what you choose, the Ginny Lane Bar and Grill has everything you need for a pleasant night.
It is part of a locally owned, and family-operated group of best restaurants. They definitely know what they doing. Their menu has a wide selection of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, fresh seafood, pasta, and steak.
Mikee’s Seafood Restaurant
We finish off the list of best places to eat in Gulf Shores with Mikee’s Seafood Restaurant. It is the perfect restaurant spot after a long day on the beach.
You can catch your own dinner, or try the menu full of delicious dishes, including parmesan oysters, catfish fillet, or sweet peanut butter pie.
Hi, I’m a clinical psychologist and inclined towards best buying practices for home and kitchen things. Critical towards choosing the best product and honest with my feedback. I’m a seasoned writer having more than 4 years of experience in multiple niches as well.
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