Craving culinary experiences while in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?
These two Alabama gems are home to diverse, vibrant, and unique culinary scenes — all strongly influenced by the region's coastal and marine life. In other words, when exploring the local eateries, you're in for a treat packed with fresh Gulf seafood delicacies and much more.
With so many places to choose from, I want to make your life easier. In this blog, I've curated a list of the top restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to make sure you don’t waste time searching for a memorable culinary experience.
A little preview, just for you: 👀
| Restaurant | Highlights |
| Fish River Grill | Southern seafood, burgers, hushpuppies, tropical cocktails |
| The Cove Bar and Grill | Festive atmosphere, live music, late-night dining, Cajun Chicken & Waffles |
| Original Oyster House | Oysters, seafood gumbo, blackened shrimp, must-try desserts |
| Sunliner Diner | 1950s nostalgia, all-day breakfast, rock & roll ambiance, photo-worthy |
| Moe's Original BBQ | BBQ platters, smoked wings, Moe'Boy, beachside seating, Bushwhackers |
| Big Fish Restaurant & Bar | Elegant setting, Gulf seafood with Asian twist, sushi bar |
| Bon Temps Poboys | Authentic Cajun, Beach Bum Po'boy, boudin egg rolls, seasoned fries |
| OSO at Bear Point Marina | Marina views, seafood with Asian flair, breakfast & vegan options |
At Vacation Homes Collections, we offer a variety of holiday homes in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. We're experts in the area, if I can say so myself, 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.
Prepare your taste buds for a fun culinary exploration!
Top Restaurants in Gulf Shores, AL
Fish River Grill is a traditional seafood restaurant in Gulf Shores, highly frequented by locals. It’s best known for serving authentic Southern-style seafood and delicious burgers.
👍 Must-tries:
- The homemade hushpuppies, classic po'boys, and generous seafood platters are standouts.
- The burgers are also a big hit—especially the River Burger, Bleu Cheese Bacon Burger, and Hurricane Burger.
- Be sure to try one of their refreshing drinks—the Spicy Bloody Mary, Bushwacker, Redneck Piña Colada, and a full lineup of Margaritas perfectly complement their food.
2. The Cove Bar and Grill
The team at The Cove Bar and Grill is dedicated not only to serving great food but also to creating a festive and joyful atmosphere where customers can enjoy pool tables and live music.
👍 Must-tries:
- Tuna Nachos.
- Stuffed Avocado.
- Cajun Chicken & Waffles.
- Cove Spicy Shrimp Wrap.
The drinks and brews are also excellent. Additionally, The Cove is one of the only restaurants in Gulf Shores that remains open until after midnight in case you're one of those who enjoy late-night dining.
Gulf Shores residents have been enjoying the offerings of the Original Oyster House since 1983, making it a total local institution and one of the oldest family hotspots on the coast.
👍 Must-tries:
- Diverse options of oysters — I personally love their Joe and Dave's Favorite Oysters and Oysters Rockefeller.
- Award-winning homemade seafood gumbo.
- Cheesy grits with blackened shrimp.
- Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Pie and Key Lime Pie for a sweet ending.
- Pro tip: Try some of their handcrafted cocktails, like Mr. Roger’s Bloody Mary and Joe's Perfect Piña Colada. They also offer a consistently fresh and well-maintained daily salad bar for those who prefer a lighter meal
What about a hint of good old jukebox nostalgia? Step back in time to the 1950s at the Sunliner Diner, a place that captures the essence of American dining culture. Their all-day breakfast menu is simply irresistible, packed with classics we can't get enough of.
👍 Must-tries:
- Chicken & Waffle Benedict.
- Sunrise Biscuit & Gravy.
- Beegees Breakfast Combo.
- The Big Daddy-O Breakfast.
- Buttermilk Pancakes.
- Seasonal Specialty Pancakes.
Something I love about Sunliner is their soundtrack is filled with rock and roll tunes, and the entire place is very photogenic. The staff is as friendly as people were in the 1950s, and service is usually swift — all at reasonable prices.
Top Restaurants Orange Beach, AL
Despite being a growing chain with multiple locations across Alabama, Moe's Original BBQ continues to serve outstanding food without compromising on quality or flavor. The Orange Beach location offers a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor picnic tables and daily specials. Just steps from the beach, you can enjoy the salty breeze and live music in their backyard.
Their specialty? Finger-licking Alabama-style barbecue and sandwiches.
👍 Must-tries:
- Loaded BBQ Tater served with cornbread.
- Pulled Pork Platter.
- Smoked Sausage.
- Rack of Ribs.
- Smoked Wings.
- Pulled Pork Sandwich.
- Fried Shrimp Moe'Boy.
People also love Moe’s affordable prices and their famous Bushwhackers.
First-timers may hesitate to try Big Fish Restaurant & Bar because it's located in a strip shopping center with an unassuming exterior. However, upon stepping inside, they discover an elegant and sophisticated setting that serves exceptionally fresh seafood dishes, along with steaks, pastas, and sandwiches.
👍 Must-tries:
- Blue Crab Claws.
- Beef Tataki.
- Sesame Seed Seared Ahi Tuna.
- Grouper Special.
- Sauteed shrimp penne pasta.
- Their sushi bar offer a great selection of sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi.
👍 Must-tries:
- Louisiana boiled crawfish.
- The homemade fries are impeccably seasoned.
- Beach Bum Po'boy.
- Boudin Egg Rolls.
- Wings and Onion Strings.
- Pro tip: Bon Temps offers excellent lunch specials.
8. Oso at Bear Point Marina
seafood dishes with an Asian twist & Marina views
A local gem, OSO at Bear Point Marina boasts a splendid dining space with captivating marina views. The menu's diversity ensures there's something for everyone. Expect plenty of seafood dishes, some with an Asian twist.
- Gumbo
- The Big Tuna
- Seoul Bowl
- King of the Swamp Burrito
- Oysters on the Rocks
- Gumbo Ramen
- The Big Easy Bun
- Pro tip: The outdoor seating area is particularly pleasing, offering patrons a chance to witness breathtaking sunsets over the water.
Catering to varied tastes, Oso also offer a range of kids' options as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes. And for those early risers, Oso also makes for a delightful breakfast spot.
Extra Tips to Enhance Your Culinary Experience in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, AL
Here are some extra tips to make your dining experience better:
Reservations are Key during high seasons: Popular restaurants in Both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. Consider making reservations in advance to ensure you secure a table, especially if you have a specific restaurant in mind.
Check for Seasonal Menus: Given the emphasis on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients, some restaurants may have special seasonal menus. These can offer a variety of dishes that highlight the best produce available during your visit.
Be Adventurous: While it's great to stick to familiar favorites, consider being a bit adventurous with your choices. Trying a unique local dish or a chef's special can sometimes lead to delightful surprises.
Save Room for Dessert: Some of the best culinary experiences end with a sweet note. Save room for dessert and explore the creative options offered by the local pastry chefs.
Explore Local Markets: Delve into the vibrant experience of local farmers' markets and fish markets along the Gulf Coast. The lively atmosphere, fresh produce, and a diverse selection of seafood offer a delightful adventure for every visitor. The joy doesn't end there — return to your vacation rental and transform your fresh finds into delicious meals through the pleasures of cooking at home.
Wondering Where to Stay During Your Trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, AL?
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!
