Reviewed by:
7 gulf coast restaurants that’ll have you eating like a local, including Lulu’s
ByZoe Hall
Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for the beach. Being at the beach is a great time to have fun in the sun, but when you need to get out of the heat and have some lunch, trying to decide where to go is a challenge. So, here’s a guide to eating at some of the best establishments on the coast from a local.
1. King Neptune’s Seafood Restaurant
There’s nothing like local seafood, and King Neptune’s is one of the best places to try when you’re not sure where to go. Located just minutes from the beach, they offer sandwiches, pastas, soups and salads with seafood and non-seafood options. Their steamer sampler platter is perfect for a little variety, with shrimp, royal reds and crab legs served alongside potatoes and corn on the cob.
- Address: 1137 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Contact: 251.968.5464 | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
2. Bahama Bob’s Beachside Cafe
This beachside café has a ton of variety for patrons to enjoy with their ocean view. They’re a local favorite for their island seafood like the coconut fried shrimp, but they also have sandwiches, burgers, salads, as well as a wide variety of nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Of course, the Bahama Bob is a house special, but there’s wines, beers, sodas, and frozen drinks.
3. Cosmo’s Restaurant and Bar
Cosmo’s has always been a favorite of mine as they serve fresh and eclectic dishes. They vary local staples, like a traditional crab cakes, but with a twist. They serve sandwiches, wraps, pasta and more. A fan favorite is the chicken roulade, which is bacon wrapped chicken breast stuffed with asparagus and cheese. Every bite will leave you wanting more for lunch or for dinner.
4. Ruby Slipper Cafe
The Ruby Slipper Café is a local favorite, and if you need a break from seafood, then this is the place to be. This establishment brings New Orleans brunch to you on the coast, with Alabama locations in Orange Beach and Mobile. Some of the menu items include BBQ shrimp and grits, bananas foster pain perdu and classic beignets. From the benedicts to the omelets, there’s plenty to choose from so be sure to bring your appetite.
- Address: 24151 Perdido Beach Blvd Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Contact: 251.800.7470 | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
5. YoHo Rum and Tacos
YoHo Rum and Tacos is a premium on the taco concept by using the flavors and culture of the Gulf Coast, Central and South America and the Caribbean. YoHo Rum and Tacos’ twist on the classic taco is exciting with their firecracker shrimp taco, buffalo chicken taco and their salads and bowls too. They offer delicious desserts, custom cocktails at the Boat Bar and a waterway view!
- Address: 4851 Wharf Pkwy W, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Contact: 251.923.0644 | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
6. Lulu’s Gulf Shores
Lulu’s Gulf Shores is a staple to tourist food destinations. They are all about food, family and fun! With their waterfront views, live music and delicious food, there’s nothing better. Some of the popular menu items include Lulu’s seafood gumbo, summer shrimp salad and big fry seafood. The menu has so much to offer, and with an arcade, ropes course and gift shop, a trip to Lulu’s is one to remember.
- Address: 200 E 25th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Contact: 251.967.5858 | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
7. The Cove Bar and Grill
The Cove Bar and Grill has a fun environment for both locals and visitors to enjoy. With hand pattied burgers, Philly cheese sandwiches, fish tacos and multiple salads, the food is delicious. The Cove offers a great place for people to hang out, have drinks, listen to live entertainment while they eat or shoot some pool, so grab a friend!
These are just a few of my favorite spots, but the Gulf Coast has so much to offer. For some more options of lunch spots in Mobile, check out this article.
What is your favorite coastal restaurant to visit? Tag us @thebamabuzz to let us know!
