Fresh Gulf oysters, crawfish boils, country breakfasts, and gourmet burgers—is your mouth watering yet? If you love seafood in Gulf Shores, crave authentic Southern cooking, or enjoy creative twists on global cuisines, you’ll find that restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer something delicious for every palate. Whether it’s fresh catches, smoky barbecue, or a coastal brunch, dining on Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a flavorful adventure.
Seafood Restaurants in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
In any beach community, seafood is the star, and along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, it doesn’t get fresher than this. Many of the best restaurants in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores highlight seasonal catches straight from the Gulf. Depending on the time of year, you can savor fresh crab, oysters, black drum, grouper, amberjack, snapper, and shrimp. From casual oyster bars to fine dining with waterfront views, seafood lovers are in for a treat year-round.
More Than Seafood: Diverse Dining Options
Not in the mood for seafood? No problem. The dining scene in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offers plenty of variety. Enjoy hearty pizza, flavorful Chinese dishes, or a gourmet burger at a local gastropub overlooking the ocean. Barbecue in Gulf Shores is another must-try, with pitmasters serving up smoky ribs and pulled pork. For a lighter option, several restaurants specialize in healthy, vegetarian, and vegan fare, ensuring every visitor finds the perfect meal.
Local Markets & Fresh Ingredients
Dining out isn’t the only way to enjoy the incredible flavors of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Local seafood markets and farmers markets allow you to bring the coast to your own kitchen. Stock up on just-caught shrimp, oysters, or fresh produce to prepare a meal in your Gulf Shores vacation rental with a full kitchen. Cooking with local ingredients is not only cost-effective but also a great way to experience the coastal lifestyle like a local.
Plan Your Foodie Adventure
Whatever your cravings—shrimp, oysters, barbecue, salad, or pasta— the best restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach promise meals that will leave you coming back for more. To discover hidden gems, top-rated spots, and family-friendly dining, explore our Area Guide for insider recommendations on where to eat along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
Top Seafood, Barbecue, Mexican & Steak Dining Picks
Gulf Shores
- Original Oyster House – Coastal classics and oysters on the half shell.
- Desoto’s Seafood Kitchen – Daily Gulf catch specials.
- King Neptune’s Seafood Restaurant – Fresh, locally sourced seafood.
- Sea-N-Suds – Casual beachfront spot with views.
- Hog Wild Beach & BBQ – Southern-style barbecue on Gulf Shores Pkwy.
- Moe’s Original Bar-B-Que – Ribs, pulled pork, and Alabama white sauce.
- Agave Bar & Grill – Mexican favorites on Gulf Shores Parkway.
- Perch (The Lodge at Gulf State Park) – Elevated steaks & seafood with sunset views.
- Big Mike’s Steakhouse (Orange Beach nearby) – Certified Angus Beef steaks.
Orange Beach
- Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina – Upscale coastal cuisine with waterfront setting.
- Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar – Sushi and Southern fusion.
- Doc’s Seafood & Steaks – Fried shrimp, gumbo, and steak entrées.
- GTs on the Bay – Family-friendly, salads and seafood with outdoor deck.
- Cactus Cantina Mexican Grill – Tex-Mex staples and margaritas.
- Big Mike’s Steakhouse – Local steakhouse on Canal Road.
More Local Favorites
- Perch – Premium steaks, seafood, cocktails, and Gulf views.
- Moe’s Original Bar-B-Que (Orange Beach) – Beach-town BBQ outpost.
- Hog Wild Beach & BBQ – Sandwiches, ribs, brisket, and more.
Making Your Own Seasonal Dishes
Stay in a beachfront condo in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach and cook fresh meals. Drive to Foley’s Coastal Alabama Farmer’s Market for produce, meat, and seafood. For a larger selection, stop at Billy’s Seafood in Bon Secour, where boats deliver daily catches.
Bring your haul back to your Orange Beach or Gulf Shores condo and cook with ocean views—pure coastal bliss.