Discover the ultimate foodie paradise and noteworthy culinary adventures in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach! Indulge in mouthwatering dishes and creative recipes at the 20 best places to eat in Orange Beach, Alabama. From fresh seafood to comforting American favorites, you’ll love the exquisite flavors of Alabama’s Gulf Coast!
Note: Almost all of the restaurants in this area serve fresh seafood in various ways–fried, blackened, grilled, broiled, steamed, or baked. No matter where you go, incredible seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico is sure to be on the list.
Table of Contents
1. Wolf Bay
Wolf Bay is a family-owned Gulf Coast tradition known for its high-quality fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere. Many of Wolf Bay’s menu items are made from the restaurant’s original recipes, dating back to 1973.
Cha Cha’s Crab Dip, Wolf Bay’s signature dip, is made with cream cheese, a sweet bourbon sauce, and bacon. It’s served with fried pita points and is the best crab dip in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area. And their Stuffed Shrimp (Gulf shrimp and house-made seafood stuffing served fried or broiled) is absolutely delicious!
Wolf Bay also has a popular salad bar available during lunch and dinner.
2. Luna’s Eat and Drink
At Luna’s Eat & Drink, you’ll enjoy epic coastal dishes, original menu creations, and an abundance of fresh seafood. This Southern-style restaurant is bursting with charm and takes pride in serving the town’s best Bushwackers. Don’t miss their flavorful appetizers, such as the Beer Cheese Dip with soft pretzel bites, Fried Pork Skins with pimento cheese, and Pimento Hushpuppies.
For the main course, try the Nashville Hot Chicken with a side of green beans or braised collards, or indulge in the delicious Shrimp and Crab Combo, featuring succulent snow crab legs. Our pro tip: pair your Nashville Hot Chicken with a buttered cornbread for the ultimate experience.
3. Fisher’s Upstairs at Orange Beach Marina
Fisher’s Upstairs at Orange Beach Marina is a fine-dining restaurant that gives you a taste of Alabama’s Gulf Coast cuisine. You’ll love the restaurant’s stylish décor and their open kitchen that gives you a glimpse of the culinary magic happening behind the scenes. The menu features fresh seafood and meat dishes, making it a great spot for special occasions.
This is what my friend Travel with Sara had to say about Fisher’s Bread Pudding: “I love a good bread pudding. Little did I know that the white chocolate/coconut flavored bread pudding would be a favorite of mine. I’m not a coconutfan and I fell in love with this savory dessert at Fischer’s. Save room for this delicious treat, as it will be worth every bite.”
4. Flora-Bama Yacht Club
The Flora-Bama Yacht Club is a scenic waterfront restaurant in Perdido Key, has a menu filled with seafood dishes, many with a creative twist. Beachgoers and locals alike craving an incredible meal in a relaxing setting will enjoy the Flora-Bama.
And what’s on the menu, you ask? Start with the scrumptious Greek Shrimp Nachos featuring grilled shrimp, olives, feta, and wonton chips smothered in a spinach-feta cream sauce. Add the Firecracker Coconut Shrimp, coated with a delectable sweet chili glaze, and you’ll be in foodie heaven.
5. Cosmo’s Restaurant and Bar
Cosmo’s Restaurant and Bar is a chic and unique dining destination in Orange Beach, Alabama. Known for its imaginative twists on classic seafood, pasta, and steak dishes, Cosmo’s offers a daily happy hour with delicious drink specials, reduced wine bottles, and discounted appetizers.
Let’s talk apps! Cosmo’s has one of the best I’ve ever tasted – the Savory Cheesecake. With cream cheese, eggs, blue crab, apple smoked bacon, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, it’s incredibly rich and creamy. You have to try it to believe it! Also, Cosmo’s Cheese Dip it topped with feta and roasted tomato relish is a fantastic shareable option.
When it comes to dinner, you’ll want to try the Filet Mignon with garlic and smoked bacon grits and asparagus or the Chicken Roulade over parmesan risotto with a sage and leek cream sauce.
And don’t forget about the Banana Leaf-wrapped Sea Bass, named one of the “100 Things to Eat in Alabama Before You Die” by The Year of Alabama Food.
6. Fresh Off the Boat OBA
Fresh Off the Boat is a restaurant you must put on your food map; their menu is very tempting, with live music to make the experience memorable. The Crab Claws sautéed in Creole cream sauce are magnificent, and their grilled bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the sauce. You can enjoy a zesty sauce and plenty of plump, meaty shrimp in their Shrimp & Grits dish – highly recommended!
I’m warning you, the Fried Alabama Gulf Shrimp Platter with fries and coleslaw will leave you wanting more. And don’t think about leaving without trying their mouthwatering bread pudding. This is the kind of dining experience you don’t want to miss out on.
7. The Crab Trap
Experience an unforgettable dining and beach adventure at The Crab Trap! This funky and family-friendly fish house on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico boasts rustic Florida decor with exquisite and relaxing water views. Kids will love the large playground, boardwalk, and other fun activities.
Crab Trap’s menu features delicious seafood options, including the must-try Hot Crab Dip and the Crab Trap Mahi-Mahi, which is known for its moistness and flavor. Come and enjoy everything you came to the beach for at The Crab Trap.
Please note: This restaurant actually crosses the state line into Perdito Key, but we lump it in with the Alabama Beaches area.
8. The Yard Milkshake Bar
When you’re craving an indulgent dessert, and I’m talking the biggest, baddest, and most awesome one you can imagine, head straight to the Yard Milkshake Bar. There, you’ll experience a picture-perfect concoction of your favorite ice cream and candies, tailor-made to your heart’s content.
From tempting strawberry and banana recipes for me to irresistible chocolate and cookie dough options for my family, The Yard is where you’ll find it all.
9. Voyagers Restaurant
Indulge in the exquisite dining experience at Voyagers, a white-tablecloth restaurant with impeccable service, great dinnerware, an appealing menu, and the best wine list in Orange beach. It is comfortable and not one bit pretentious.
Chef Brody invites you to enjoy his unique creations in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, where impeccable service awaits. Start your culinary journey with the tantalizing ostrich carpaccio (the first time I’ve tried it!) and beautiful meat & cheese boards.
For oyster enthusiasts, Voyagers’ chargrilled oysters are not to be missed – they will leave your taste buds singing with delight. Seafood lovers will be delighted by the platter, overflowing with succulent lobster, crab, oysters, and shrimp. Perfect for sharing or treating yourself, it is a true seafood extravaganza.
And for those who prefer a perfectly cooked steak, they certainly deliver.
But save some room, because the grand finale awaits. The Caramel Corn on the Cob is a heavenly creation – a blend of sweet corn mousse, Bulleit salted peanut butter cake, and a caramel peanut crunch. OMG, it is delectable!
10. Ruby Slipper Cafe
Looking for a fabulous breakfast and lunch spot? Look no further than the Ruby Slipper! With locations in New Orleans, Metairie, Mobile, and Baton Rouge, this eatery is a breakfast lover’s paradise.
Don’t miss their irresistible buttermilk biscuits. And although the waiting list is often long, the food is worth the wait. Indulge in outstanding entrees like the Trifecta – a trio of Ruby Slipper’s incredible Eggs Benedict dishes. Included in that trio are:
- Chicken St. Charles (with pork tasso cream sauce and fried chicken)
- Shrimp Boogaloo (similar to Shrimp Creole)
- Eggs Cochon (with apple-braised pork).
Great heavenly day, this is one 10/10 breakfast offering!
11. Cobalt, The Restaurant
Cobalt is another waterfront dining option that boasts of spectacular sunset views and a menu with something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, sushi, or steak, Cobalt (inside the Caribe Resort) has got you covered.
Renowned chefs in three separate kitchens craft Cobalt’s authentic dishes; the service is impeccable. You can arrive at the restaurant by boat, too. Start with their mouth-watering Avocado Stack with tuna, balsamic drizzle and a crispy wonton. I couldn’t’ get enough of this tasty dish. Firecracker Shrimp is popular, too.
An Orange Beach staple, the Bushwhacker drink, is sheer perfection at Cobalt.
12. Foodcraft and Woodside Restaurants
Nestled in the beautiful Gulf State Park lies two gems – Woodside Restaurant – where you’ll discover delicious food that defies expectations and Foodcraft, the main restaurant at The Lodge at Gulf State Park (a Hilton Hotel), serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday Brunch.
Foodcraft’s Lodge Breakfast Buffet is incredibly popular. I opted for the Banana Bread French Toast (topped with sliced bananas and pecans, served with bourbon-maple syrup and bacon). It was a very tasty way to start my day!
For dinner, I enjoyed Foodcraft’s Honey Goat Cheese (drizzled with tomato pepper jam, raw honey apple slaw, & chives), Fish & Chips (beer battered Grouper and red potatoes, served with citrus caper tartar sauce), and a Spiced Apple Crisp (cinnamon-scented apples and brown sugar-oat streusel) à la mode.
All three dishes were delicious. I enjoyed getting to have dinner overlooking the white sugar sand Gulf Shores beaches.
Woodside Restaurant is an upscale eatery offering a mouth-watering menu that won’t disappoint even the most selective palates. Satisfy your taste buds with the Muscle Shoals Omelet, a breakfast delight made of shaved ham and smoked Gouda pimento cheese that is just so darn tasty.
Woodside Restaurant provides more than just delicious eats; live music and outdoor games make it a popular, fun-loving destination.
13. BuzzCatz Coffee & Sweets
Indulge in BuzzCatz‘s mouthwatering range of breakfast and lunch options, all made from scratch with love. From quiche to waffles, breakfast sandwiches to cathead biscuits and gravy, and even wraps and salads for lunch, there’s something for everyone. For an affordable, yet decadent breakfast, the Buzz Bowl is a must-try at only $6.50.
Experience the whimsical and colorful atmosphere of this counter-service joint as you sip on your favorite hot and cold beverages like tea, latte, milkshakes, cold brew, hot chocolate, or espresso. And you may also want to take home a cupcake or cookie for later.
Make sure not to miss out on the incredible pecan praline cinnamon rolls – they’re absolutely amazing!
14. Safari Club Restaurant
Safari Club found at Gulf Coast Zoo, is a top-rated restaurant – and you don’t even need zoo admission to eat there! It’s Alabama’s premier Green-certified restaurant and boasts an incredible menu. Whether you’re stopping by for appetizers or for a full meal, the menu offers an array of mouth-watering options.
If you’re looking for a recommendation, be sure to try the Crunchy Goat Cheese served with house-made fig jam; it’s a must. I also highly recommend the Thai Beef Salad with ginger garlic dressing and the Wood Grilled Jumbo Shrimp served over lemon risotto and fresh vegetables.
And if you’re still hungry, end your meal with the divine Woodford Bourbon Bread Pudding.
** As of Sept 2023, this restaurant has been replaced by Savannah, which we will visit on our next trip.
15. Sunliner Diner
Indulge in a delicious and playful 1950’s-style diner meal at the iconic Sunliner Diner. From omelets and light breakfast bites to pancakes and waffles, they offer an array of scrumptious dishes. Crave a classic breakfast plate with eggs, biscuit, sausage, and hash browns? Sunliner’s got it. Want biscuits and sausage gravy? Sunliner’s got you covered. And with unlimited servings of coffee and fragrant sweet tea, you’ll never go thirsty.
Though Sunliner Diner also serves burgers, fries, and shakes, breakfast is available all day here. Hallelujah! Come and savor a tasty meal in a lively atmosphere.
16. Lulu’s Gulf Shores
Experience the ultimate vacation destination at Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s in Gulf Shores. With a stunning waterfront location on the Intracoastal Waterway, this restaurant offers an unforgettable blend of amazing food, family-friendly atmosphere, and non-stop fun.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant ambiance, complete with a sprawling playground, exciting seasonal events, and live music every night. Plus, LuLu’s takes pride in catering to all dietary restrictions, including gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy their meal to the fullest.
But let’s get to the main event – the food. LuLu’s impresses with its diverse menu, featuring a wide array of mouthwatering coastal cuisines. Indulge in the rich flavors of their signature Crab Nachos, where every bite is a creamy, cheesy delight.
Or dive into the deliciousness of LA (Lower Alabama) Caviar, a black-eyed pea dip that is simply divine. And for seafood enthusiasts, their Shrimp and Grits is an absolute must-try.
17. Brick & Spoon
Experience the spectacular menu at trendy local chain, Brick & Spoon. Originating from Alabama, this New Orleans-style eatery has become a favorite among both locals and tourists. Open daily from 7 AM to 2 PM, it’s the perfect spot for breakfast or brunch.
Start your meal with a fun and original dish, the Bananas in Pajamas. Combining egg roll wrappers, bananas, and Foster sauce, it’s a treat for your taste buds. For the main course, don’t miss the Killer Creole Omelet. Packed with Gulf Shrimp, tasso ham, peppers, and housemade hollandaise, it’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss.
And let’s not forget about the drinks. Brick & Spoon offers over 50 options to customize your own Bloody Mary. With an extensive selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, the possibilities are endless.
18. Hurricane Grill & Wings
If you’re looking for a delicious meal and drinks, Hurricane Grill & Wings. is the place to be. With a wide selection of beer and wine, it’s perfect for both happy hour and dinner. Their menu offers something for everyone, including 34 flavors of bone-in or boneless wings, grilled steak or blackened fish tacos, and Thai ginger chicken bowls.
Don’t miss out on their standout dish – and make sure to order the garlic parm broccoli, it’s fantastic! And if you’re a fan of fries, you won’t want to miss the garlic n’ parm fries.
19. The Hangout
When visiting Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, The Hangout is a must-see destination. Overlooking the sandy beaches of the Gulf, this restaurant offers a nostalgic yet trendy atmosphere with many exciting activities to indulge in. With a menu filled with amazing chef-inspired creations and seafood dishes, The Hangout is the perfect spot to start your culinary adventure.
Try out Fried Pickles and Chicken Nachos to share with the table and go for Ultimate Seafood Boil or Alabama Cobb Salad for your main course. Of course, you can’t go wrong with their delicious and juicy burgers.
If you are looking for a beach drink to try, the Paradise Mule or a Blueberry Mojito are the great way to kick start your vacation. On top of all this, take your pick from either indoor or outdoor seating and admire some cool Pez dispenser and retro-lunchbox collections.
20. Another Broken Egg Cafe
Discover the joyful and tasty Another Broken Egg Cafe experience! I had my first meal at Another Broken Egg Cafe 20 years ago, and I still love going there every chance I get. Their extensive breakfast, lunch and brunch menu, including seasonal dishes, is sure to delight anyone’s taste buds.
Not your everyday classics – go for the Cinnamon Roll French Toast or Flight of Pancakes. Benedict or Chicken & Waffles more your thing? Try them Benedict with Country Fried Steak and red eye gravy, or the Smoked Salmon option on a bagel with capers and cream cheese.
At Another Broken Egg Cafe, it’s doubtful that you’ll leave hungry or unsatisfied.
21. Tacky Jack’s
Tacky Jack’s Seafood Restaurant and Tavern is a local hangout that offers delicious food and a lively atmosphere. With locations in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Tacky Jack’s is a great spot for families and friends to gather for a meal. Try their fresh seafood and their famous Bushwacker, a delicious frozen co*cktail and Gulf Coast must.
Even if you aren’t hungry, you’ve got to see the decor inside Tacky Jack’s for yourself — 100% original.
22. Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar
If you’re in the mood for fresh oysters, Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar is the place to be…since 1984, to be exact. Their oysters are locally sourced and served raw, baked, or fried. They also offers fresh seafood, sandwiches, and salads. My bet is on the fried shrimp platter with crinkle fries, coleslaw, and a sweet tea to drink.
Follow up your delicious dinner with a slice of key lime pie.
Doc’s was voted TOP 10 Seafood Shacks In America by Fox News.
23. The Southern Grind Coffee House
For a casual breakfast or lunch, The Southern Grind Coffee House is the place to be. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful decor, that makes you just want to hang out a little longer. Southern Grind is first and foremost a coffee shop, but also offers a menu filled with fresh and healthy options.
Must-tries include the avocado toast, breakfast burrito, and their delicious coffee or smoothies.
Pro Tip: Check out the Dublin cold brew and thank me later.
24. CoastAL Orange Beach
CoastAL Orange Beach is a huge complex with a waterfront restaurant, open-air bar, and lifestyle store, all with stunning beachfront views. The CoastAL Restaurant serves fresh, local seafood, chef-inspired dishes, seasonal favorites, and indulgent desserts.
I stopped by CoastAL for appetizers and loved the two that I had. The Gulf Coast Blue Crab Dip (local blue crab and parmesan cream served with toasted bread) was tasty, but the Island Grouper Bites (coconut breaded Gulf grouper with a piña colada dipping sauce) were my favorite.
I can’t wait to try more from this Orange Beach restaurant!
Orange Beach: A Tasty Address
And a few we haven’t been to, but hear great things about, Shipp’s Harbour Grill and Big Fish Restaurant & Bar.
These restaurants in Orange Beach, Alabama are all fantastic, family-friendly places where you can enjoy a really good meal at a fair price. We hope you enjoy them all!
Disclosure: Some meals were hosted by Gulf Shores/Orange Beach CVB for my familiarization visit. All opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.
Check out more of our Best Eats posts around the USA:
Best Eats in Galveston, TX
Where to Eat in the Florida Keys
The Best Places to Eat and Drink in Huntsville, AL
