13 Texas Seafood Spots You Need to Try
Texas isn’t just about BBQ and brisket, folks. We’ve got seafood so fresh it might still have a dating profile. If you’re craving down-to-earth, no-frills, slap-yo-mama good seafood, this list is your new best friend. These places don’t need fancy chandeliers or cloth napkins; they let the seafood do the talking. And trust me, it has a lot to say.
1. Blackbeard’s – Port Isabel
What started as a simple burger and beer joint has grown into a cherished coastal eatery, shaped by years of resilience, innovation, and the support of our loyal guests. Through hurricanes, renovations, and community feedback, we’ve evolved while staying true to our roots. Today, we invite you to savor our expertly crafted steaks, fresh seafood, and delicious sandwiches—all served with a warm smile and a touch of island charm! Pro tip: Order the fried shrimp basket—it’s enough to make a grown man cry.
2. Shrimp Boat Manny’s – Livingston
Shrimp Boat Manny’s, nestled in Livingston, Texas, is a beloved Cajun seafood restaurant known for its warm hospitality and delectable dishes. The menu boasts a variety of Southern favorites, including shrimp, oysters, crawfish, catfish, chicken, and ribeye steaks. Signature offerings like étouffée and gumbo showcase the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine.
A standout feature of Shrimp Boat Manny’s is their legendary “pink sauce,” a unique condiment that adds a delightful twist to many dishes. This sauce is so popular that patrons often purchase bottles to enjoy at home.
3. Gilhooley’s – San Leon
No kids allowed, no nonsense tolerated, and no bad seafood in sight.
Gilhooley’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, located in San Leon, Texas, is a renowned seafood establishment celebrated for its rustic ambiance and exceptional oyster offerings.
Ambiance and Policies:
Embracing a no-frills, old-school bar atmosphere, Gilhooley’s is exclusively for patrons aged 18 and over, ensuring an adult-friendly environment. The establishment features both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a casual setting.
Signature Dishes:
The restaurant is acclaimed for its fresh, Gulf-sourced oysters, particularly the “Oysters Gilhooley,” which are roasted with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese. Other popular menu items include fried mushrooms, gizzards, shrimp po’boy sandwiches, and seafood gumbo. Their mesquite-grilled oysters are legendary, and if you leave without trying them, we can’t be friends.
Reputation and Accolades:
Over the years, Gilhooley’s has garnered a cult following among locals and food enthusiasts, earning recognition from publications like GQ Magazine as one of the “top 25 anti-restaurants.” Its unpretentious charm and delectable seafood have made it a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Gulf Coast flavors.
4. Salt Water Grill– Galveston Island
Saltwater Grill, located at 2017 Postoffice Street in Galveston, Texas, has been a cornerstone of the island’s dining scene for over 25 years. Established by the Galveston Restaurant Group, the restaurant offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, providing guests with an exceptional culinary experience.
Culinary Offerings:
Saltwater Grill specializes in gourmet steak and seafood dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and unique recipes. The menu features a variety of coastal cuisine, including grilled snapper, salmon, sea bass, and signature items like seafood gumbo with shrimp, oysters, and crabmeat. The restaurant also offers healthier preparation options such as grilling, steaming, and broiling.
5. Bubba’s Cajun Style Seafood – Seadrift
Bubba’s Cajun Style Seafood, located in Seadrift, Texas, is a popular dining spot renowned for its authentic Cajun cuisine and fresh seafood offerings. Situated at 1142 State Highway 185 E, this restaurant has garnered praise for its flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Menu Highlights:
The menu at Bubba’s features a variety of Cajun-inspired dishes:
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Starters: Fried Boudin Balls, Spicy Boudin, Seafood Gumbo, Crawfish Étouffée, and Shrimp Diablo.
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Bubba’s Boils: Signature seafood boils such as Bubba’s Big Catch (1 lb shrimp, 1 lb Dungeness crab, 2 blue crabs, corn, potatoes, and sausages) and Bubba’s Alaskan King (1 lb king crab).
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Platters: Options like the Shrimp Platter (fried or grilled), Stuffed Shrimp Platter, Fried Seafood Platter (including fish, shrimp, oysters, and stuffed crab), and Fish Platter (fried, grilled, or blackened).
6. Marais- Dickinson Bayou
Marais is a stunning multi-venue restaurant that captures the essence of New Orleans with its elegant French Quarter-inspired architecture, all set against the picturesque waterfront of Benson’s Bayou in Dickinson, Texas. This unique dining destination offers a truly unforgettable experience with three levels of dining and three full-service bars.
The menu is a delightful blend of Gulf Coast seafood, Cajun-inspired dishes, and prime steaks, with a touch of fusion to elevate the culinary offerings. Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood, perfectly cooked steaks, or a flavorful Cajun dish, every bite reflects the spirit of coastal cuisine.
What sets Marais apart is its atmosphere. The gas-lit ambiance, elevated terrace, and waterfront deck create a sophisticated yet relaxed environment for guests. With a full wine list, wine lockers for connoisseurs, and unmatched views, it’s a dining experience you won’t find anywhere else in Galveston County.
7. Snoopys Pier – Corpus Christi
This beloved Corpus Christi gem, named after that famous beagle, has been serving up fresh Gulf seafood with a side of warm hospitality since 1980. Founded by a local fishing family, Snoopy’s Pier has been a go-to spot for over 30 years, offering quick, delicious, straight-off-the-boat seafood.
From shrimp and crab to oysters and conch—if it comes from the Gulf, it’s on the menu. Pair your meal with an ice-cold beer and soak in a sunset so stunning, you might just consider quitting your job for the beach life. Pro tip: Order the blackened redfish tacos—you can thank me later.
8. Benno’s on the Beach – Galveston
Benno’s on the Beach is a cherished destination for those seeking authentic Cajun seafood with a beachfront ambiance.
The menu boasts a variety of Cajun-inspired dishes, including grilled, fried, and boiled seafood options. Signature items such as gumbo, red beans and rice, crawfish étouffée, and jambalaya are highly recommended. Additionally, patrons can enjoy seafood platters, barbecue, shrimp po’boys, and soft-shell crabs.
Guests appreciate the casual, beachfront setting and the quality of the cuisine.
9. Top Water Grill – San Leon TX
A beloved Gulf Coast waterfront hideaway, Topwater Grill has been a go-to spot for locals, fishermen, and families for over 20 years.
Offering the ultimate coastal casual dining experience, Topwater Grill captures the laid-back, saltwater spirit of classic Texas Gulf Coast eateries. Savor fresh oysters served six ways, indulgent seafood platters, and flavorful shrimp or mahi tacos with our unique twist. Pair your meal with one of our signature cocktails and soak in the relaxed, seaside atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for more.
10. Doc’s Seafood & Steaks – Mustang Island
A chill waterfront spot serving up blackened mahi-mahi and stuffed flounder so good it’ll make your eyes roll back. A Gulf Coast legend of its own, Doc’s picturesque waterfront location under the JFK Bridge from Corpus Christi to the Island, it affords diners great indoor and outdoor views alongside fresh Gulf seafood, Angus Beef hand-cut steaks, and handcrafted cocktails from the bar accented by live music — every night! Also, their margaritas don’t play around.
Fishermen, feel free to bring in your haul, after a day on the water. Chris, under the Palapa Palms downstairs will clean and filet your Catch. The Cook will prepare to your liking (grilled, blackened or fried) and serve alongside Doc’s rice and seasonal sauteed vegetables.
11. Stingaree Restaurant – Crystal Beach
Take a ferry to the Bolivar Peninsula and experience Stingaree’s legendary gumbo, blue crab platters, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s all about good times and cold beer. Indulge in fresh seafood platters—grilled or fried—along with barbecued crabs, boiled crabs, and our famous fried Vieno crabs. Don’t forget to save room for homemade bread pudding and sip on our signature Stingarita, the ultimate margarita. And as the perfect bonus, enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the bay—completely FREE!
12. The Boiling Pot – Rockport
Roll up your sleeves and get ready to make a mess—this place dumps steaming piles of boiled seafood right on your table. The Boiling Pot is a lively, long-running joint serving heaps of fresh Cajun-spiced, boiled seafood in down-home, beachy digs with Ice Cold beer and Tea! If you leave without crawfish juice on your shirt, you did it wrong.
13. Darlene’s Shrimp Shack – Galveston Island
Darlene’s Shrimp Shack, located at 1727 61st St #1097 in Galveston, Texas, is a beloved local seafood spot known for its fresh, Gulf-caught shrimp and friendly service. Situated right on the water, this establishment offers a variety of shrimp dishes, including fried, garlic parmesan, and Cajun styles, all prepared to order.
Customers praise Darlene’s for its exceptional shrimp, highlighting the freshness and flavor of the Gulf-caught offerings. The establishment has earned a 4.5 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor, with reviews noting the friendly staff and quick service.
Where to Stay While You Eat Your Weight in Seafood
After a long day of devouring the ocean’s finest, you’ll need a place to crash. Here are three mid-range hotels where you can sleep off that seafood coma:
- Hyatt Place Corpus Christi – Our hotel is near the Shops at La Palmera, and a short drive from the beautiful beaches of Mustang Island and Padre Island. Plus the FREE breakfast to prep you for round two.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Galveston – Modern, clean, and strategically placed near all the fun and across from the Beach.
- Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Rockport-Fulton – A solid choice near the coast with a pool to soak off that butter and Cajun spice.
So, there you have it—thirteen no-frills, all-thrills seafood spots across Texas, plus some solid places to rest your overstuffed belly. Now go forth and eat like the seafood-loving legend you are!