Coastal Weddings
Coastal Weddings
Alabama Wedding Venues
So you’ve decided to take the plunge. All the ingredients for marital bliss are coming together perfectly. Soul mate who you’re madly in love with? Check. Perfect date picked? Check. You’ve got the who, the why and the when. But what about the where? If you’re thinking about a seaside wedding, check out all that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Ala., have to offer–everything from the extremely elegant to the casual and carefree.
The Beach Club, Gulf Shores | 251-224-3362 | www.beachclubal.com
On the Fort Morgan peninsula, amid thick stands of live oaks, saw palmetto and the alluring waters of the Gulf, The Beach Club beckons many a bride and groom with its elegant, yet tranquil ambiance. On average, the property hosts 50 weddings each year. In addition to the surrounding natural beauty, this luxury resort has all the features you’d expect, but it also has something extra. The staff at The Beach Club genuinely cares about every detail of every wedding and will go that extra mile to help any couple create a beautiful, stress-free event.
As Jenna Richards, The Beach Club’s onsite wedding planner, explained, “ Being five-star Southern hospitality certified, we pride ourselves on being unique and always thinking of the guest’s every need. We do this by having many amenities and activities available so the guests are comfortable and do not need to leave the property. We have two restaurants, a full-service salon and spa, indoor/outdoor pools, a Tiki bar, tennis courts and the most amazing view of the Gulf of Mexico,” she said.
The Beach Club offers several different venues for both ceremonies and receptions, including the Village Meeting Place and the Clubhouse, as well as its private beach.
Caribe | 251-980-9000 | www.caribe-resort.net
Completed in 2002, Caribe in Orange Beach has much to offer, but its standout feature is probably a picturesque view of the both the beach and the bay. With several unique spaces and a long list of amenities, Caribe is positioned to deliver a beach destination wedding that lives up to any bride’s vision.
The onsite restaurant Cobalt has a private dining room that seats 75 for smaller receptions, and at in the off-season, the entire restaurant with its wall of windows facing the water can be reserved. Two other event spaces in Caribe’s two towers have 7,000 square feet each.
But it’s the outdoor spaces that have the most appeal. The green, grassy breezeway between the two towers overlooks the bay and marina and makes a lovely spot for an intimate ceremony. The deck around the resort’s Lazy River is a truly special venue. On top of a third-level parking structure, it’s elevated and has an amazing vista overlooking the beach. Lisa Day with Big Day Weddings, a wedding planner in the area, names this setting among her favorite venues. “It’s really different and quite beautiful,” she said. And she loves planning receptions at Cobalt.
Gulf Shores Wedding Chapel | 251-968-6222 | gulfshoresweddingchapel.com
It may be small, but the quaint Gulf Shores Wedding Chapel has coastal charm and grace in mass quantities. With twinkling chandeliers and the glow of the Southern sun lighting up colorful stained glass windows, the chapel casts a spell on all who see it. Two acres of lovely landscaped grounds dotted with fountains, flowers and a gazebo as well as a separate indoor reception venue add to the offerings. Plus, a new pavilion was just added that connects to the reception hall, allowing the Gulf Shores Wedding Chapel to boast that it has the best rain plan in the area.
Elaine Harper at the Chapel can also help you plan an outdoor ceremony on the grounds or at the nearby beach. “Drawing from our years of experience and professional vendor support, we can provide outstanding service,” she said. “Together, we can plan an entire wedding and reception with our packages, or custom design a wedding to suit any dreams or desires. We specialize in creating perfect memories here.”
Gulf State Park & Pavilion | 251-948-7275
Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores has two miles of pristine, sun-kissed beaches, perfect for surfside nuptials. Then celebrate your union with family and friends at a reception under the new pavilion. It’s easy to get carried away when gazing at this eye-catching structure. The curved roof looks ready to take off on the next strong beach breeze. Or maybe it more resembles a wave ready to break on the beach. Whatever image the contemporary design brings to your mind, it’s sure to be something extraordinary. And the pavilion is available for weddings and receptions, weather permitting, all year long.
Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club | www.peninsulagolfclub.com
While Alabama’s beaches are beautiful, so is the bay. The calm dark waters present a different side of the coast’s personality, one of sophisticated serenity. The Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club in Gulf Shores is an impressive 27-hole championship golf course designed by Earl Stone that’s tucked next to the Bon Secour Wildlife Preserve.
But the Club offers more than just great golf. The full-service club is also often the site of “I dos.” Ready to handle both small and large groups, Peninsula has a recently renovated clubhouse that’s proven very popular for weddings.
Bon Villa | 251-967-8672 | www.bonvillagulfshores.com
For a cozy, homey feel that still has the relaxed atmosphere of a beach wedding, look to Bon Villa, which means “Good Home” in French. Known for stunning sunsets, this private house on Plash Island surrounded by the gentle currents of Mobile Bay and the Bon Secour River hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions for those lucky enough to discover it.
The secluded site is a treasure trove for nature lovers with swaying palms, many resident birds and frequent dolphin sightings. Bon Villa also has its own beach and large patio area ready for dancing and dining. And it comes with its own wedding planning service, Weddings by the Bay, ready to meet your every wedding need.
Bill and Linda Sundancer own and operate Weddings by the Bay and Bon Villa, and Linda explained the location’s appeal. “For one thing, it is all-inclusive. You can do both your wedding and reception right here,” she said. “And it is very private yet still conveniently located to the main highway in Gulf Shores, Hwy. 59.”
But the main attraction is the natural beauty. “Brides can save the expense of a lot of extra décor. Bon Villa doesn’t need any embellishment. God already did it all,” Linda said.
Wild Hearts Charter Boat | 251-981-6700 | www.sailwildhearts.com
Why not just sail away together? Or at least feel like you’ve traded the everyday for paradise with an exchange of vows aboard Wild Hearts, a catamaran that cruises the ocean and backwaters in and around Orange Beach. The 53-foot craft can accommodate up to 49 people from spring through fall, and Captain Shu Cunningham and his crew are willing to help you create any kind of event you can dream up.
Orange Beach Adult Activity Center | 251-981-3440www.obparksandrec.com/adultseniorcenter.html
Don’t let the name or the rather non-descript exterior of this place fool you. It has the three most important aspects covered: location, location, location. Situated directly on the blue-green waters of Wolf Bay, the Center has a large manicured lawn perfect for an outdoor wedding at the water’s edge where you can share your first married-couple kiss as sailboats float behind you on the bay. Its large multi-purpose room can be utilized for events as well.
Details, details…
While many of the above have onsite staff ready to help you with your destination wedding, you may want to consider using an area-wedding planner like Lisa Day at Big Day Weddings or Charli Linn of All the Details. They can help you answer important questions like, “Do I need a permit for this?” and ensure that there’s not another wedding just 100-feet down the beach from yours. They’ve also got the inside scoop on all the venues, local photographers, florists and more.
Charli Linn, All The Details, www.dreamybeachweddings.com
Lisa Day, Big Day Weddings, www.bigdayweddings.net
The Gulf Shores/Orange Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau is a great resource too. It has a section on its website that lists all of the wedding-related businesses in the area. Check it out atwww.gulfshores.com/reunions-weddings/weddings.
There are also numerous private beach houses and condos available for rent for weddings. Contact the below rental agencies for more information.
Meyer Real Estate, 800- 859-8948
Kaiser Realty, 800- 225-4853
Young’s Suncoast, 800-826-1213
Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals, 877-747-4787
Brett/Robinson, 800- 221-0258
Picard Realty, 800- 786-1890
All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. | Copyright 2010 Gulfscapes Magazine | Craig and Victoria Rogers | PO Box 863 | Port Aransas, TX 78373 | 361-548-6804 | www.gulfscapes.com
Categories: Alabama Gulf Coast, Coastal Weddings Tags: al, alabama, beach, getting married, venues, waterfront, wedding
Florida Wedding Venues
Fifteen coastal communities occupy the stretch of pristine white sand beaches between Destin and Panama City, Fla. Known collectively as the Beaches of South Walton, each enclave is unique, yet they share a common thread. Visit any or all of them and you may notice that the sun seems to shine brighter, the breezes blow cooler and worries roll out with the tide.
With natural beauty and tranquil vibes in abundance, The Beaches of South Walton have become favorite destinations for couples looking to make their wedding day memorable. If matrimony is in your immediate future, study this list of Gulfscapes’ picks for the perfect places to tie the knot in northwest Florida.
SAVOR THE SUNSET
Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club | 850-267-1240 | www.santarosaclub.com
4801 W. Hwy 30-A | Santa Rosa Beach, FL
If your vision of nuptial bliss includes exchanging vows in the colorful orangey-pink glow of a seaside sunset, The Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club is for you. On the pool terrace overlooking the ocean, countless couples have wed while watching the sun sink slowly into the water. The Beach Club can also meet your other wedding needs with a wide range of complete and customized banquet services for rehearsal dinners and receptions.
LAIDBACK & LOVELY
Bentley’s On the Bay | 850-267-0240 | www.bentleysonthebay.com
24200 HWY 331 South | Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Let the calm bay water gently lapping the shoreline lull you and your spouse-to-be into serenity at Bentley’s on the Bay. Sitting alongside Choctawhatchee Bay, Bentley’s is the spot for a relaxed wedding that’s all about family and good friends. Say “I do” under an old willow tree, and then, after sealing the deal with a kiss, let loose and enjoy music and dancing by moonlight with your guests on Bentley’s 3,600-square-foot deck facing the water. You can also choose from two lawns, the bay’s beach area, or Bentley’s private Gulf-front location in Grayton Beach. Optional indoor facilities are available in case of inclement weather.
A HISTORIC HAPPENING
Eden Gardens State Park | 850-231-4214 | www.floridastateparks.org
County Road 395 | Point Washington, FL
A wedding amid the towering moss-covered oaks, vibrant camellias and charm of the Old South found at Eden Gardens State Park is always an affair to remember. A white-columned mansion, built in 1895, graces the park’s 115 acres of lawns and well-maintained gardens, which include a reflection pool. The house has been fully restored and is furnished with period antiques. Harkening back to Florida’s past, Eden Gardens provides a beautiful, stately backdrop for a ceremony or reception.
ELEGANT & AT EASE
WaterColor Inn & Resort | 850-534-5007 | www.watercolorresort.com
34 Goldenrod Circle | Santa Rosa Beach, FL
The fresh, contemporary look of the WaterColor Inn complements its natural surroundings in elegant fashion. It’s simple luxury at its best. But the real draw here is the spectacular service. The expert staff at WaterColor works to fulfill your every wedding wish, making your day truly yours. Site options abound at WaterColor and include locations overlooking the Gulf and spots among the verdant landscapes of WaterColor’s gardens. Wedding services available include catering, wedding cake design, floral design, transportation and entertainment coordination.
REVEL IN ROMANCE
SunQuest Cruises, Sandestin | 850-650-2519 | www.sunquestcruises.com
Start “happily ever after” with a romantic twist and surround your wedding with 360-degree ocean views onboard the yacht “Solaris” operated by SunQuest Cruises. With three decks, including a completely open-air deck on top and two climate-controlled dining areas that can accommodate up to 150 guests, a sail on “Solaris” is a unique way to get hitched. You can choose to hold both your ceremony and reception at sea, or just the reception. Docked at Baytowne Marina in Sandestin, the “Solaris” also offers onsite catering with a full-service galley and bar as well as a private bridal dressing suite.
BEACH BRIDE
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa | 850-267-9600
4000 Sandestin Blvd, South | Destin, FL
Many brides choose a coastal locale with a singular mission in mind: being pronounced man and wife while standing barefoot in the sand, mere feet away from the spray of the surf. The Beaches of South Walton have pristine sand aplenty, grains ground so fine they’re soft, and so dazzling white, they sparkle in the sun. And all South Walton beaches have been certified Blue Wave Beaches by the Blue Wave Campaign, America’s first environmental certification program for beaches. With six miles of private Blue Wave beach, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is a favorite for weddings. The property also boasts spacious guest rooms, beautiful ballrooms and full service amenities.
Seaside
(800) 591-8696 | Hwy 30-A | Seaside, FL | www.cottagerentalagency.com
The beach at Seaside has also beckoned many a bride. The area’s rows of bright hued cottages add a quaint ambiance to the seashore, and Seaside’s event planners have both the knowledge and the friendly attitude to take the stress out of wedding preparations.
“The Lawn”
866-294-5833 | 4240 E. Hwy 30-A | Seagrove Beach, FL www.pearlywhiteproperties.com
If feeling the sand between your toes is taking a beach wedding a tad to far for you, check out the “The Lawn” in Seagrove. This Gulf-front grassland is 110 feet by 60 feet, and has been lit and manicured to perfection. Two homes, available for rent, sit adjacent to “The Lawn,” one with 10 bedrooms and one with six. Both have heated swimming pools too.
SAY “I DO” IN STYLE
Inn by the Sea | Seaside, FL | www.cottagerentalagency.com
Tucked among the cottages in Seaside, the Inn by the Sea offers a cozy patch of paradise with a punch of style. With only nine rooms, what the Inn lacks in size it makes up for in panache. Each room and the Inn’s common areas are decorated to reflect the designs of Vera Bradley. For the few who may not know, Vera Bradley is an internationally known company specializing in colorful and intricately patterned handbags and luggage. The Inn provides a more intimate wedding experience with the bonus of refreshing, comfortable décor.
KEEP TRADITION ALIVE
Seaside Chapel | (800) 591-8696 | Hwy 30-A | Seaside, FL
Bring the fairytale to life with a traditional church ceremony in the Seaside Chapel. At the northernmost point of the Seaside community, the picturesque chapel is a simple board and batten structure, with a 68-foot bell tower and heart pine floors. A walk down its aisle will reveal elements of the house of worship’s coastal setting, as the clean scent of salt air can be still be detected even within the chapel’s white-washed walls. And you can take advantage of Seaside’s beautiful beach or large pavillion for a reception as well as its trusted wedding planners.
MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME
A Highlands House B&B | 850-267-0110 | www.ahighlandshouse.com
4193 W. Hwy 30-A | Santa Rosa Beach, FL
If you’ve ever dreamed of getting married at your own house, A Highlands House B&B can make it a reality—at least part of it. A Highlands House has the beachside locale your abode probably lacks, but it exudes a homey feeling that’s warm and welcoming. Oh and in case your house isn’t an immaculate two-story antebellum with whimsical décor, A Highlands House is all this too. And in addition to the beach right out the door, several coastal dune lakes, a geographical feature unique to the Beaches of South Walton, are nearby.
SCENIC SOPHISTICATION
Weatherall Fine Arts Gallery | 850-622-5299
3730 Scenic Highway 30-A | Santa Rosa Beach, FL
www.weatherallfineartweddings.com
Add some culture and flair to your wedding by holding it at Weatherall Fine Arts gallery. This 900-square foot wide-open space in Santa Rosa Beach appeals to brides with a modern aesthetic. Every wall is covered in original artwork accented with gallery lighting that creates a sophisticated scene. An additional 2,000 square feet of space are available outside the gallery where tents can be set up, and the beach is just a short walk away.
IT’S ONLY NATURAL
850-278-2100 | Rosemary Beach
Hwy 30-A | Rosemary Beach, FL
Have it all at Rosemary Beach. Enjoy the air-conditioning and weather-proof plan of a ceremony in the community’s Town Hall, and use the beach, one of the lush lawns or the center courtyard to incorporate some of the great outdoors into your day. The blend of architectural styles and the neutral, natural colors of Rosemary Beach’s structures marry man and nature easily. Your union at Rosemary can be just as harmonious.
All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. | Copyright 2010 Gulfscapes Magazine | Craig and Victoria Rogers | PO Box 863 | Port Aransas, TX 78373 | 361-548-6804 | www.gulfscapes.com
Categories: Coastal Weddings, Florida Gulf Coast Tags: fl, florida, wedding
Delicious Dining
See our NEW Gulf Coast Seafood Recipe Site!
Alabama
Felix’s Fish Camp Grill, 1530 Battleship Pkwy., Spanish Ft., AL, www.felixsfishcamp.com, 251-626-6710 – We’re addicted to the fried crab claws.
Noja, 6 North Jackson Street, Mobile, AL 36602, www.nojamobile.com, 251-433-0377
The Trellis Room, The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel and Spa, 26 North Royal Street, Mobile, AL 36602, 251-338-5493 – An elegant experience is always on the menu at Mobile’s only AAA Four Diamond rated restaurant. Indulge in sophisticated, contemporary décor amidst the historic hotel and “chef-inspired” cuisine with a Northern Italian influence. The menu changes often, but a dish like caramelized day boat scallops with wild mushroom risotto is just one example of the delicious offerings.
TRUE, 9 Du Rhu Drive, Suite 201, Mobile, AL, 36608, www.truedine.com, 251-344-3334
Wintzell’s Oyster House, 605 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36602, www.wintzellsoysterhouse.com, (251)432.4605 – Renowned for offering oysters “fried, stewed or nude,” this Mobile hallmark started in 1938 and now has a location in Orange Beach, too. Order the Oyster Sampler and have it all—Oysters Monterey, Oysters Bienville, Oysters Rockefeller and Wintzell’s famous grilled oysters.
Guy Harvey’s Island Grill, 4851 Wharf Pkwy Ste 116, Orange Beach, AL 36561, www.guyharveysislandgrill.com, (251)224-8180 – The perfect place to ogle, but you won’t be leering at bikini bodies. You’ll be gawking at boats—big boats. This restaurant’s outside seating offers a straight-shot look at The Wharf’s marina. Of course, a diverse menu and the adjacent museum and retail shop showcasing the works of famed fisherman artist Guy Harvey are a big draw, too.
Tacky Jacks Tavern & Grill, 27206 Safe Harbor Dr, Orange Beach, AL 36561, www.tackyjacks.com, (251) 981-4144 – Tacky Jacks has so much fun to pass around, they have two locations on the Alabama coast, both set on the backwater. Great spots to socialize while satiating your appetite for ample portions of yummy food. Flat-screen TVs in the bar area at the Orange Beach location make a festive hangout for watching fall football games.
Cobalt The Restaurant, 28099 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL, 36561, www.cobaltrestaurant.net, (251) 923-5300 – Nibble on tasty jumbo BBQ shrimp or crab-stuffed baby portabellas and watch the boats float by. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows frame a picturesque vista of the bay and Perdido Pass. The water wall and touch tank full of live fish at the entrance will keep you entertained if you (somehow) become bored by the view.
Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar, 25753 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL, 36561, www.cosmosrestaurantandbar.com, (251) 948-9663 – The easy-going atmosphere has a neighborhood pub vibe that makes everyone feel welcome. A guy strumming guitar and outdoor seating on a large deck are reason enough to visit, but the spectacular sushi pushes this place to the top of the list.
Voyagers, 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL 35661 www.perdidobeachresort.com, 251-981-9811 - Inside the Perdido Beach Resort, Voyagers is a classic fine dining establishment. Staying true to its philosophy of using only the freshest local ingredients, Voyagers consistently serves authentic tastes of the area’s bounty. Reservations are highly recommended.
Villaggio Grille, 4790 Wharf Parkway, Orange Beach, AL 36561, www.villaggiogrille.com, (251) 224-6510
Wolf Bay Lodge, 26619 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL 36561, www.wolf-bay-lodge.com, 251-987-5129 – Wolf Bay Lodge is still serving up heaping helpings of seafood and steaks. This local treasure keeps things casual, and at lunchtime, Wolf Bay’s sensational salad bar is not to be missed. If you just got off one of the fishing charters stationed at the marina, Wolf Bay will clean and cook your catch for you.
Sunset Cork Room, 225 E. 16th Ave., Gulf Shores, AL, 36542, www.sunsetcorkroom.com, (251) 967-4773
Gulf Shores Steamer, 124 West 1st Ave., Gulf Shores, AL, www.gulfshoressteamer.com, 251-948-6344 – If you want to eat your fill but avoid the extra calories that come with fried foods, this is the place for you, dishing up piles of steamed seafood. True foodies will appreciate the unadulterated flavors of Royal Red shrimp, crab and fish that come through thanks to the simple steaming.
King Neptune’s, 1137 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, www.KingNeptuneSeafoodRestaurant.com, 251-968-5464 – Eat like a local at King Neptune’s, one of Gulf Shores’ oldest and most popular restaurants. After just one spoonful of the creamy, flavorful corn and crab bisque, you won’t notice the lack of designer décor or the tight squeezes in the tiny space. Try favorites like bacon-wrapped stuffed shrimp or the tart and tangy West Indies Salad.
Mikee’s Seafood Restaurant, 2nd Avenue, East 1st Street, Gulf Shores, AL, www.mikeesseafood.com, 251-948-6452 – Mikee’s calls itself “a place for seafood.” It may be THE place for seafood. Try the grilled triggerfish or Captain Ed’s Sautéed Scallops. Family friendly, too.
The Gumbo Shack, 212 & 1/2 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 36532, www.guysgumbo.com, (251) 928-4100
Pirate’s Cove, 6664 County Road 95, Elberta, AL 36530, www.piratescoveriffraff.com, 251-987-1224 – Bring a friend. We mean a four-legged one. In fact, if you arrive at Pirate’s Cove Marina without a dog in tow, you may be in the minority. Hordes of people and their pets congregate on the deck adjacent to the marina, sipping Bushwhackers (a thick, chocolaty milkshake/cocktail) while waiting for their “cheeseburger in paradise.” A tiny kitchen turns out burgers that are legendary.
Mississippi
The Blow Fly Inn, 1201 Washington Ave., Gulfport, MS 39507, www.blowflyinn.com, (228) 896-9812
BR Prime, 875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, MS, 39530, www.beaurivage.com, (228) 386-7737
Darwell’s Cafe, 127 E. First St., Long Beach, MS 39560, www.darwellscafe.com, (228) 868-8946 – Known for its crawfish etouffee. Located just a short stroll from the beach.
Lb’s Steakhouse, Grand Casino Biloxi, 280 Beach Boulevard, Biloxi, MS 39530, www.grandcasinobiloxi.com, 800-946-2946
Maisano’s By The Glass Wine Bar & Bistro, 1634 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs, MS, 39564, www.maisanosfinewine.com, (228) 872-7144
Salute Italian, 1712 15th St., Gulfport, MS 39501, www.saluteitalian.com, (228) 864-2500 – go with the shrimp and grits or the amberjack supreme.
The Shed, 7501 Highway 57 , Ocean Springs, MS, 39565, www.theshedbbq.com, (228) 875-9590 – The (Original) Shed BBQ & Blues Joint is not so much a restaurant, but an experience. Regular customers called ShedHeds are invited to bring their collected junk. It spruces up the place, which was a ramshackle shack to begin with. You can’t argue with success.
Southeast Louisiana
Iris, 321 N Peters St., New Orleans, LA 70130, www.irisneworleans.com, (504) 299-3944 – Specialty cocktails are works of art, and Chef Ian Schnoebelen produces a dinner menu that isn’t the standard New Orleans style, combining several different influences, from Italian to Vietnamese to French. The menu is changed daily, so variety abounds. Try the Gulf Shrimp with coconut broth, baby bok choy, pickled shimeji mushrooms, basil coulis, and fried ginger.
Commander’s Palace, 1403 Washington Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70130, www.commanderspalace.com, (504) 899-8221 – One of the Legends. Training ground for Emeril and Paul Prudhomme. Try the pecan crusted gulf fish, tasso shrimp in pepper jelly, creme brulee, and bread pudding.
Galatoire’s, 209 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, www.galatoires.com, (504) 525-2021 – Another Legend. Friday afternoons are a tradition. As is the shrimp remoulade, poisson meuniere amandine, and banana bread pudding.
Bayona, 430 Dauphine Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, www.bayona.com, (504) 525-4455
August, 301 Tchoupitoulas Street, New Orleans, LA 70130, www.restaurantaugust.com, (504) 299-9777
Acme Oyster House, 724 Iberville Street, New Orleans, LA 70130, www.acmeoyster.com, (504) 522-5973 – Grilled oysters rule! Just watching them on the grill is a treat.
Sazerac Restaurant & Bar, 123 Baronne Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, www.therooseveltneworleans.com, (504) 648-1200
Ralph’s on the Park, 900 City Park Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119, www.ralphsonthepark.com, (504) 488-1000 – BBQ gulf shrimp. Mmmmm.
Jamila’s Mediterranean Tunisian Cuisine, 7808 Maple Street, New Orleans, LA 70118, (504) 866-4366
Cochon Butcher, 930 Tchoupitoulas, New Orleans, LA 70130, www.cochonbutcher.com, 504-588-PORK
K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen, 416 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA 70130, www.chefpaul.com, (504) 596-2530 – Legend. Trust me. Blackened twin beef tenders with debris and garlic mashed potatoes, finish with the Custard Marie creme brulee. Perfect.
Brennan’s, 417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA, www.brennansneworleans.com, (504) 525-9711 – Another Legend. Always start with turtle soup, and always end with Bananas Foster. Anything in between is just a bonus.
Emeril’s Delmonico, 1300 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130, www.emerils.com, 504-525-4937
Central Grocery Company, 923 Decatur Street, New Orleans, LA 70116, (504) 523-1620 – originator of the classic NOLA muffuletta sandwich.
Dooky Chase, 2301 Orleans Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119, (504) 821-0600 – Yet another Legend. Gumbo z’herbes on Holy Thursday is a major tradition. So is the fried chicken and bread pudding.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House, 2401 Saint Ann Street, New Orleans, LA 70119, (504) 822-9503 – Fried chicken. That’s all you need to know. Fried chicken.
Drago’s, 2 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70130, www.dragosrestaurant.com, (504) 584-3911 – Don’t even think about leaving here without Charbroiled Oysters.
Camellia Grill, 626 South Carrollton Avenue, New Orleans, LA, www.camelliagrill.net, (504) 309-2679 – One of Jimmy Buffett’s inspirations for “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Get the burger, get the onion rings, get a milkshake, then watch them drop your piece of pecan pie in a pool of butter on the grill to warm it. Take the St. Charles Trolley to get to this classic southern diner.
Tracey’s, 2604 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70130, www.traceysnola.com, (504) 899-2054
Joey K’s, 3001 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70115, www.joeyksrestaurant.com, (504) 891-0997
Sammy’s Food Service & Deli, 3000 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70122, www.sammysfood.com, (504) 947-0675
Louie and the Red Head Lady, 1851 Florida Street, Mandeville, LA 70448, www.louieandtheredheadlady.com, (985) 626-8101
L. A. Pines Cafe, 1061 Robert Blvd, Slidell, LA 70458, www.lapinescafe.com, (985) 641-6196
Port of Call, 838 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116, www.portofcallnola.com, (504) 523-0120 – Huge burgers served with baked potatoes, not fries.
Gautreau’s, 1728 Soniat St., New Orleans, LA 70115, www.gautreausrestaurant.com, (504) 899-7397
Herbsaint, 701 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130, www.herbsaint.com, (504) 524-4114 – Donald Link, cajun chef extraordinaire, continues to amaze at his flagship restaurant, with offerings like Louisiana Shrimp and Grits with tasso and okra, and Kurobuta Pork Belly with crispy eggplant and grilled date relish.
Big Al’s Seafood, 1377 W Tunnel Blvd, Houma, LA 70360, www.bigalsseafood.net, 985-876-4030
Rocky & Carlo’s, 613 W. St. Bernard Hwy., Chalmette, LA 70043, www.rockyandcarlos.com, 504-279-8323
Beausoleil, 7731 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70809, www.beausoleilrestaurantandbar.com, (225) 926-1172 – Chef Nathan Gresham, formerly of Galatoire’s Bistro, rolls out a menu heavy on local products. Give these dishes a try: Seafood salad with blue crab, Louisiana shrimp, & avocado with a white remoulade; Hand-made gnocchi with bacon, peas & a roasted garlic cream sauce; & Grilled shrimp, truffled risotto and andouille gravy.
Juban’s Restaurant, 3739 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA, 70808, www.jubans.com, (225) 346-8422
Galatoire’s Bistro, 17451 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA, 70810, www.galatoires.com, (225) 753-4864
Southwest Louisiana
Tsunami, 412 Jefferson Street, Lafayette, LA 70501, www.servingsushi.com, (337) 234-3474
Steamboat Bill’s on the Lake, 1004 North Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601, www.steamboatbills.com, (337) 494-1070
Renee’s Cafe and Boutique, 1 Lakeshore Dr # 555, Lake Charles, LA 70629, www.reneescafe.net, (337) 439-6916
Southern Spice, 3901 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70605, www.mysouthernspice.com, (337) 474-6065
Pat’s of Henderson, 1500 Siebarth Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70615, www.patsofhenderson.com, (337) 439-6618
Bay Area Texas
Bryan’s 797, 797 N. Fifth St., Beaumont, TX, 77701, www.bryans797.net, (409) 832-3900
Luigi’s, 2328 Strand Rear Street, Galveston, TX 77550, www.luigisrestaurantgalveston.com, (409) 763-6500
Gaido’s, 3828 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77550, www.gaidos.com, (409) 762-9625 – Seafood heaven. Snapper Michael, Brook’s gumbo and the fried shrimp can’t be beat.
Mosquito Cafe, 628 14th Street, Galveston, TX 77550, www.mosquitocafe.com, (409) 763-1010 – Great omelets and sandwiches. Fresh seafood, too. Just opened a bakery next door called PattyCakes.
Olympia Grill, 21st & Harborside, Galveston, TX 77550, www.olympiapier21.com, (409) 765-0021 – Loved the sautéed red snapper fillet.
Rudy & Paco, 2028 Post office St, Galveston, TX 77553, (409) 762-3696 – The Filete de Pargo Parrilla (grilled fresh filet of red snapper topped with cilantro cream sauce) is excellent!
Saltwater Grill, 2017 Post Office St., Galveston, TX 77550, www.saltwatergrill.net, (409)762-3474 – Sounds weird, I know, but the Southern BBQ Red Snapper rocks!
Shearn’s, Seven Hope Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77554, www.moodygardenshotel.com, (409)741-8484 – Go on Thursday evening. That’s when they get in fresh tuna. Get the sesame encrusted ahi.
T-Bone Tom’s Steakhouse, 707 Highway 146, Kemah, TX 77565, www.tbonetoms.com, (281) 334-2133
Coastal Bend Texas
Yardarm Restaurant, 4310 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78411, (361) 855-8157
La Playa, 222 Beach Ave., Port Aransas, TX 78373, 361-749-0022 – Casual Mexican seafood dining. Shrimp and crab enchiladas, fish tacos with purple cabbage slaw, a top shelf margarita and flan for dessert. Wonderful! But bring cash, no credit cards!
Venetian Hot Plate, 232 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373, www.venetianhotplate.com, (361) 749-7617 – Linda, the owner, is from Italy and brought spectacular recipes with her, like the Penne alla Bolognese. Fettuccine ai gamberetti is a spicy shrimp dish with bacon. Fresh fish is offered daily.
Roosevelt’s, 200 East Cotter Avenue, Port Aransas, TX 78373-5124, (361) 749-1540 – Can’t go wrong with pan-seared snapper with shrimp and ricotta ravioli or the Caribbean char drum.
Liberty Hall, 103 East Cotter Avenue, Port Aransas, TX 78373, (361) 749-1660 – the best place for burgers and sushi!
Tango Tea Room, 505 South Water St # 545, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, Try the vegan menudo – it’s menudo with the vegetarian wheat meat that the Tango Tea Room makes, the menudo seasoning and hominy www.tangofandango.com, (361) 883-9123
Cheryl’s By the Bay, 112 S Fulton Beach Rd, Fulton, TX 78382, www.cherylsbythebay.com, (361) 790-9626
Moondog Seaside Eatery, 100 Casterline Dr., Fulton TX, 78358, (361) 729-6200 – giant draft beers, right on the water.
Hu-Dats, Broadway & S Fulton Beach Rd, Fulton, TX 78382, (361) 790-7621 – the original restaurant with the best Pho.
South Texas
Scampi’s, 206 W Aries Dr, South Padre Island, TX 78597, www.scampisspi.com, (956) 761-1755 – Oysters Rockefeller, or Scampi’s version of it, is one of the best ever. Worth the trip.
Wanna Wanna, 5100 Gulf Boulevard, South Padre Island, TX 78597, www.wannawanna.com, (956) 761-7677 – Oyster sandwich is great.
Marcello’s Italian Restaurant, 110 North Tarnava Street, Port Isabel, TX 78578, www.marcellositalian.com, (956) 943-7611
Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Boulevard, S Padre Island, TX 78597, www.lbyspi.com, (956) 761-6406
Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 W Palm St, South Padre Island, TX 78597, www.palmstreetpier.com, (956) 772-7256 – The Captain Morgan Shrimp has won the World Championship Shrimp Cook-off.
Sea Ranch Restaurant, 1 Padre Boulevard, South Padre Island, TX 78597, www.searanchrestaurant.com, (956) 761-1314
Southwest Florida
Arturo’s, 844 Bald Eagle Dr, Marco Island, FL, 34145, www.arturosmarcoisland.com, (239) 642-0550 – Try the Penne A La Vodka.
Baleen, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, 9891 Gulf Shore Dr., Naples, FL 34108, (239) 598-5707 – Waterfront dining with choice of seating in an indoor epicurean enclave or a barefoot beach table. At night there is an intimate beach fire pit with extensive wine-by-the-glass offerings.
Bleu Provence, 1234 Eighth St. S., Naples, FL, 34102, www.bleuprovencenaples.com, (239) 261-8239
Blue Heaven, 729 Thomas St., Key West, FL, 33040, www.blueheavenkw.com, (305) 296-8666
B.O.’s Fish Wagon, 801 Caroline Street, Key West, FL, www.bosfishwagon.com, (305) 294-9272
Cafe Marquesa, 600 Fleming Street , Key West, FL 33040, www.marquesa.com, (305) 292-1919
Camille’s Restaurant, 1202 Simonton Street, Key West, FL 33040, www.camilleskeywest.com, (305) 296-4811
Cote d’Azur, 11224 Tamiami Trl N , Naples, FL 34110, www.cotedazurrestaurant.com, (239) 597-8867
The Dock Restaurant at Crayton Cove, 845 12th Avenue South, Naples FL 34102, www.dockcraytoncove.com, (239)263-9940
El Siboney, 900 Catherine Street, Key West, FL 33040, www.elsiboneyrestaurant.com, (305) 296-4184
Grand Café Key West, 314 Duval St., Key West, FL, 33040, www.grandcafekeywest.com, (305) 292-4740
The Grill, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, FL, 34108, www.ritzcarlton.com, (239) 598-6644
Hot Tin Roof, Zero Duval St., Key West, FL, 33040, www.oceankey.com, (305) 296-7701
Louie’s Backyard, 700 Waddell Ave., Key West, FL, www.louiesbackyard.com, (305) 294-1061
Turtle Kraals Restaurant & Bar, 231 Margaret St., Key West, FL 33040, www.turtlekraals.com, (305) 294-2640
Central Florida
Alpine Steakhouse, 4520 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231, www.alpinesteak.com, (941) 922-3797
Beach Bistro, 6600 Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach, FL, www.beachbistro.com, (941)778-6444
Bern’s Steak House, 1208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa, FL, www.bernssteakhouse.com, 813-251-2421- Bern’s is a legend. Just the half million bottles of fine wine in their cellar is enough to vault it into fame, but add on their 19 varieties of caviar, steaks that are cut to your requested thickness, a cheese cave, a separate dessert room, and … well, you get the picture. Go for the Châteaubriand and finish with the Banana Cheese Pie.
Bijou Café, 1287 First St., Sarasota, FL, www.bijoucafe.net, (941)366-8111
Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber Restaurant, 447 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater Beach, FL, 33767, www.bobheilmans.com, (727) 442-4144
Cafe Ponte, 13505 Icot Blvd., Clearwater, FL, www.cafeponte.com, (727)538-5768
Columbia, 2117 E. Seventh Ave., Tampa, FL, www.columbiarestaurant.com, (813)248-4961
Crow’s Nest Marina Restaurant & Tavern, 1968 Tarpon Center Dr, Venice, FL 34285, www.crowsnest-venice.com, (941) 484-9551
Da Giorgio, 5702 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach, FL, www.dagiorgio.net, (941)779-0220
Donatello, 232 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL, www.donatellotampa.com, (813) 875-6660
Euphemia Haye, 5540 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL, www.euphemiahaye.com, (941)383-3633
Keegan’s Seafood Grille, 1519 Gulf Blvd, Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785, www.keegansseafood.com, (727) 596-2477
Mise en Place, 442 West Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33606, www.miseonline.com, (813) 254-5373
Palm Court Italian Grill, TradeWinds Island Grand, 5500 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706, www.tradewindsresort.com, (727)367-6461 – don’t miss the chocolate creme brulee.
Shula’s Steak House, 4860 W. Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33609, www.donshula.com, (813) 286-4366 – Shula’s offers a 48oz porterhouse. That’s how serious their steaks are. But try the lobster mash potatoes and the crab mac and cheese, too. And for breakfast, you gotta try the lobster sausage.
Skipper’s Smokehouse, 910 Skipper Road, Tampa, FL 33613, www.skipperssmokehouse.com, (813) 971-0666 – Known for its fiery hot wings and grouper sandwich. And great live music.
Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish, 1350 Pasadena Ave, South Pasadena, FL 33707, (727) 381-7931 – Smoked mullet and potato salad. Can’t go wrong.
Vernona, The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236, www.ritzcarlton.com (941) 309-2000
Northwest Florida Atlas Oyster House, 600 Barracks St., Pensacola, FL, 32502, www.goodgrits.com, (850) 470-0003 – Try the grilled oysters, Volcano Chicken sandwich and key lime pie.
Bud & Alley’s, 2236 E. County Hwy. 30A, Seaside, FL 32459 , www.budandalleys.com, (850) 231-5900
Café Thirty-A, 3899 E. Scenic Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, www.cafethirtya.com, (850) 231-2166
Capt. Anderson’s, 5551 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, FL, 32408, www.captanderson.com, (850) 234-2225
Firefly, 535 R. Jackson Blvd., Panama City Beach, FL, 32407, www.fireflypcb.com, (850) 249-3359
The Fish House, 600 Barracks St., Pensacola, FL, 32502, www.goodgrits.com, (850) 470-0003 – Gotta have the famous Grits a Ya Ya. Also excellent are the blackened mahi, wasabi crusted tuna, and key lime pie.
Fish Out of Water, WaterColor Inn, 34 Goldenrod Cir., Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, (850) 534-5050 – Atmosphere, they got it. Great views of the Gulf. If you can pry yourself away from the scenery, try the raw bar for good local eats, like Apalachicola Bay oysters. Grouper cheeks are yummy, too.
The Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Pensacola, FL 32507, www.florabama.com, 850-482-0611 – The Flora-Bama’s Oyster Bar & Grill is technically in Florida, but your kid could easily throw one of its delectable fried pickles over into Alabama. It is a downright dive, but that’s a huge part of its appeal. You will find delicious versions of seafood shack standards like fried shrimp, oyster po’ boys and fried crab claws. And sitting just steps from the surf, it’s the best deal you’ll find on the beach.
Island Room Restaurant at Cedar Cove, Cedar Cove Beach & Yacht Club, 10 Second St., Cedar Key, FL 32625, (352) 543-6520
Jackson’s Steakhouse, 400 S. Palafox St., Pensacola, FL 32502 , www.goodgrits.com, (850)469-9898 – What a stellar wine list to compliment the veal chops.
The Marlin Grill, 9100 Baytowne Wharf Blvd., Sandestin, FL, 32550, www.marlingrill.com, (850)351-1990
Poppy’s Seafood Factory, 138 Fisherman’s Cove, Destin, FL, 32550, www.poppysseafoodfactory.com, (850) 351-1996
Seagar’s Restaurant, 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S., Destin, FL, 32550, www.seagarsdestin.com, (850) 622-1500
Verandas Wine Bar&Bistro, 76 Market St., Apalachicola, FL, 32320, www.verandasbistro.com, (850) 653-3210
Advertising opportunities are available within the Gulf Coast Delicious Dining Guide. Contact Victoria by phone at 361-548-6804 or email victoria@gulfscapes.com
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Categories: Alabama Gulf Coast, Featured story, Florida Gulf Coast, Louisiana Gulf Coast, Mississippi Gulf Coast, Texas Gulf Coast Tags: al, beach, chefs, dining, fl, food, guide, Gulf Coast States, la, ms, restaurants, seafood, sustainable, tx, waterfront
