A trip to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach isn’t complete without indulging in towering plates of top-notch seafood! Here’s a list of must-try spots to satisfy your cravings.
Nestled along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer more than just sugar-white sands and turquoise waters — they’re also a haven for seafood lovers. From casual beachside eateries to upscale waterfront dining, these fantastic destinations are packed with local restaurants serving the freshest Gulf catch.
Savoring a variety of dishes that highlight the region’s rich coastal flavors, paired with stunning waterfront views, laid-back Southern charm, and refreshing cocktails, is one of the best ways to experience the irresistible coastal lifestyle in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
To help you discover the best seafood spots in these two Alabama gems, we've curated a list of top local picks — places where you’ll find some of the freshest and most flavorful seafood dishes you'll ever try.
About Us
At Vacation Homes Collections, your comfort and happiness are our top priorities. With a wide variety of properties in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we've been creating dream vacations for years, ensuring you and your family have the best time ever.
We're experts in the area, so be sure to check out our blog for tips on making the most of your trip. Whether you're looking for a guide to a great weekend or a bucket list of activities, we've got all in there.
From sea to table — let’s indulge!
Gulf Shores Top Local Picks for Seafood
Fish River Grill
A local favorite, Fish River Grill is a go-to spot in Gulf Shores for those craving classic Southern seafood in a laid-back setting.
Diners rave about their homemade seafood platters and specialty dishes. Some absolute must-tries include the Cajun Crawfish Pistol Basket, Gulf Shrimp Platter, and Large Bayou Seafood Basket. The Cajun Crawfish Pistol, a chef’s favorite, is a mouthwatering French roll stuffed with crawfish, shrimp, and Fish River Grill’s secret spicy seafood sauce.
Pair your meal with one of their signature drinks, such as the Spicy Bloody Mary, Bushwacker, or Redneck Piña Colada. They also offer a variety of margaritas, the perfect refreshment to complement their bold Southern flavors.
Original Oyster House
Since 1983, the Original Oyster House has been a beloved staple in Gulf Shores, standing as one of the area’s longest-running family-friendly dining spots.
The menu features a tempting selection of oysters, award-winning homemade seafood gumbo, cheesy grits topped with blackened shrimp, and specialty dishes that are a true feast for the taste buds. Crowd favorites include Joe and Dave’s Favorite Oysters, Fried Crawfish Tails, Gumbo, Whole Flounder, and Boudreaux’s Favorite — a delicious blackened whitefish topped with tasso and Conecuh sausage cream sauce that’s simply irresistible!
Tacky Jack’s
Tacky Jack’s is a waterfront restaurant known not only for its beautiful bay views but also for serving incredibly fresh seafood dishes that will keep you coming back whenever you're in Gulf Shores.
Some must-try dishes include Shrimp and Grits, Blackened Grouper, Crab Claws, Fried Oysters, Firecracker Shrimp, Mahi Mahi Tacos, Blackened Fish Tacos, and Royal Red Shrimp. Each dish is expertly seasoned, cooked to perfection, and served in generous portions.
Tacky Jack’s also has a location in Orange Beach, offering the same seafood favorites. The Gulf Shores location, their newest spot, is a vibrant, waterfront eatery nestled among oak trees. If you’re looking to add a little extra fun to your dining experience, check their event schedule — live music, bingo nights, karaoke, and open mic sessions make this a must-visit for amazing fun and entertainment.
DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen
This locally owned gem in Gulf Shores is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Alabama. With a wide selection of fresh seafood and award-winning customer service, it offers a memorable dining experience filled with vibrant coastal flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights of their incredible menu include Southern-style crab cakes, fried butterfly shrimp, coconut shrimp, yellowfin tuna, snow crab legs, fried catfish, and broiled flounder. Little ones can enjoy a kid-friendly menu featuring delicious fish sticks, fried shrimp, and other non-seafood options.
DeSoto’s also offers a diverse bar menu with a selection of wines, beers, and cocktails — perfect for pairing with their seafood specialties.
Orange Beach Top Local Picks
Big Fish Restaurant & Bar
At first glance, Big Fish Restaurant & Bar might not catch your eye, tucked inside a strip shopping center with a modest exterior. But step inside, and you’ll find a refined, upscale atmosphere where fresh seafood takes center stage alongside expertly prepared steaks, pastas, and sandwiches.
The menu is known for its diverse selection of Gulf seafood, enhanced with Asian-inspired flavors. A highlight is the sushi bar, offering an impressive range of sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. Standout dishes include Blue Crab Claws, Seared Ahi Tuna, and the Grouper Special. Guests can also customize their fresh catch, choosing from sautéed, bronzed, blackened, grilled, or crispy fried preparations.
With its sophisticated decor, Big Fish is an excellent choice for a romantic dinner or a special gathering with family. The outdoor courtyard, featuring a wood-burning fireplace, is the perfect spot for a cozy dining experience in Orange Beach.
Voyagers
Located within the beautiful Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach, Voyagers is an exceptional fine dining destination along the Gulf Coast, where every seafood dish is carefully crafted to preserve the freshness of the ingredients and highlight coastal flavors.
Renowned for offering some of the freshest Gulf seafood in the region, the menu features indulgent options such as Spiny Lobster Spring Roll, Crab Stack, Seafood Pasta, and Furikake Crusted Snapper.
End your meal on a sweet note with one of their mouthwatering and inventive desserts, like Sweet Potato Cheesecake, Lemon Basil Sponge Cake, or Cherry Bread Pudding. Alternatively, opt for a post-dinner cocktail. Local favorites include the Espresso Martini, Banana Old Fashioned, and Italiano Cherry-Amaro, a bold bourbon-based cocktail with rich flavors.
👍 Pro tip: Reservations are essential — booking at least three weeks in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Louisiana Lagniappe
Louisiana Lagniappe is a highly cherished restaurant in Orange Beach, beloved by locals for its superb Cajun-inspired seafood with a refined Gulf Coast twist. Located at SanRoc Cay Marina, this waterfront gem offers an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating that provides beautiful marina views for a scenic dining experience.
Signature dishes like Lobster Rangoons, Grouper Pecan, and Shrimp & Grits highlight the restaurant’s seamless blend of Southern charm and fine dining flair. Other must-try options include Barbecue Jumbo Shrimp, Oysters Lagniappe, Grouper Pontchartrain, Bayou Grouper, Twin Lobster Tails, Chargrilled Yellowfin Tuna, Grouper Louisianne Sautéed, and Lagniappe Stuffed Shrimp, each expertly prepared with bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
A meal at Louisiana Lagniappe wouldn’t be complete without dessert—savor the Triple Layer Chocolate Cake or Tuxedo Double Decker for a grand, sweet finale.
The Gulf
Departing from the classic fine dining scene yet still exuding style and, of course, serving exceptional seafood, The Gulf is a unique waterfront restaurant crafted from repurposed shipping containers. It seamlessly blends eco-friendly design with a laid-back coastal ambiance that makes it a standout destination for seafood lovers.
Their five-star menu offers an array of irresistible dishes, including the Grouper Sandwich, Blackened Swordfish Reuben, Mahi-Mahi Tacos, Tuna Poke Bowl, Premium Alaskan Snow Crab Legs, Peel-and-Eat Shrimp, Lobster & Shrimp Roll, Coconut Shrimp, and the Gulf Cubano.
With mostly open-air dining spaces offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, The Gulf creates the perfect setting to enjoy fresh seafood while soaking in the salty ocean breeze. What more could you ask for?
Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar
Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar is a no-frills, old-school seafood joint that has been a local favorite in Orange Beach for decades. Known for serving some of the best fried seafood on the Gulf Coast, this laid-back eatery is the go-to spot for those craving fresh, generously portioned, and perfectly seasoned seafood in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Standout options from their menu include Seafood Gumbo, Shrimp Loaf, Super Seafood Platter, Grilled Shrimp, Mahi Mahi, and Alabama Crab Cakes. Their fried shrimp, often hailed as the best in Alabama, is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — a must-try when visiting Orange Beach.
Doc’s is all about casual, no-fuss dining, with paper-towel rolls on the tables, friendly service, and a come-as-you-are vibe. If you're looking for a local experience with authentic Gulf Coast flavors, this spot deserves a place at the top of your Orange Beach bucket list.
Bonus: Extra Tips for Seafood Lovers Visiting Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Ask About the Catch of the Day: Many restaurants offer fresh, locally sourced seafood that isn’t always listed on the regular menu.
Try Local Specialties: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are known for unique dishes like Royal Red Shrimp, blackened grouper, and chargrilled oysters — don’t miss them!
Experience a Seafood-focused Event: Every October, Gulf Shores hosts the National Shrimp Festival. And every November, The Hangout hosts the highly anticipated Oyster Cook-Off.
Pairing Seafood with the Perfect Drink: Royal red shrimp usually goes really well with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer. If you pick Chargrilled Oysters, enjoy them with a bold Chardonnay or a hoppy IPA.
Stay Like a Local in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
With years of experience in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we at Vacation Homes Collections don’t just know where to find the freshest seafood and best local gems — we’re also experts in crafting unforgettable experiences.
Our, vacation rentals, ranging from beachfront homes to high-rise condos, provide the perfect home base for your next Alabama Gulf Coast getaway. When you stay with us, all you need to do is soak in the coastal beauty and let it whisk you away — because it surely will!
