Looking for some delicious food and the best restaurants in Galveston, Texas on your beach vacation?
From fresh seafood like fried shrimp and seafood gumbo to Southern fare and Texas classics like chicken fried steak and bbq, Galveston Island has several amazing places to eat.
Most of these are located along the famous Seawall boulevard with several notable exceptions in the Downtown and Historic Strand district area.
Also Read: 26 Best things to do in Galveston, Texas
Best Restaurants in Galveston, Texas
One of the best features of Galveston, Texas is its amazing variety of restaurants.
Whether you’re in the mood for beachfront BBQ or authentic Mexican cuisine, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds here.
Galveston restaurants are known for their high-quality food and great service, making them an excellent choice when you’re visiting this vibrant coastal city.
Here are the most popular restaurants in Galveston, Texas to try on your next trip.
Gaido’s
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant is the ultimate when it comes to fine dining on the island.
Some of their popular dishes include Charcoal Grilled Salmon, Red Snapper Michael, blackened premium gulf shrimp, and crab cakes!
Popular vegan sides include parmesan tomatoes and baked potato.
The old-world charm and excellent service make this a great spot for date night or anniversary dinner on the island.
We recommend reservations for the best experience.
Gaido’s is located at 3828 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550.
Galvez Bar & Grill
If you’re looking for delicious dining on the island, look no further than Galvez Bar & Grill.
The restaurant is located in the historic Galvez Hotel and is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.
Galvez Bar and Grill serves up some of the best seafood around, with a menu packed full of fresh oysters and crab as well as mouth-watering gumbo and shrimp platters.
They are also famous for their Sunday brunch which features a delicious array of brunch items.
From made-to-order omelets and waffles to an extensive selection of Snow Crab legs, fresh oysters, cheeses, and desserts, there’s something for everyone at Galvez Bar & Grill.
Galvez Bar and Grill is located at 2024 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550.
Plan a romantic vacation in Galveston!
Read our post on 21 Romantic Things to do in Galveston for couples to plan your getaway.
Mosquito Cafe
For something a little casual but delicious, check out the Mosquito Cafe.
This laid-back breakfast spot is famous for its french toast, pancakes, and breakfast burritos.
Their menu also features a variety of lunch items like pasta, noodles, and sandwiches if you’re looking for something to eat later in the day.
Katie’s Seafood House
If you’re looking for the best seafood restaurant on the island, look no further than Katie’s Seafood House.
This popular spot is known for its fresh seafood including favorites such as crispy fried shrimp, fish tacos, oysters, and crab.
They also have a fully loaded Bloody Mary that comes with shrimp and fried okra.
The outdoor dining area has amazing views, especially at sunset.
BLVD Seafood
BLVD Seafood is another great spot for those looking for a delicious meal.
They have a vast menu filled with seafood goodness: try our favorite coconut shrimp or the popular Flat Fish Stack.
The restaurant is also popular for brunch on Galveston Island.
Salsa’s Mexican Restaurant
If you’re looking for authentic Mexican cuisine on the island, head over to Salsa’s.
This restaurant has great food, amazing views, and a fun atmosphere.
Their menu is full of classic Mexican favorites like tacos and enchiladas, as well as chips and salsa.
Order some margaritas and be serenaded by their Mariachi band as you enjoy dinner on the island.
The Spot
If you’re looking for a casual, laid-back spot to grab a bite on the island, head over to The Spot.
The beachfront restaurant serves up some of the best fish and chips, shrimp kisses, and burgers around, with delicious sides like waffle fries and onion rings.
Looking for the best beaches in Galveston? Read our guide to best Galveston Island beaches including East Beach, Stewart Beach, West End Pocket beaches, and more now.
Shark Shack Beach Bar & Grill
Shark Shack Beach Bar & Grill is a small, cozy place in the Historic Strand District.
The highlight here is the Cajun Shrimp Fondue appetizer.
This cheesy goodness of shrimp comes with garlic bread and is yummy and filling!
The shrimp and blue crab salad is also delicious; the bloody Mary’s are spot on.
The restaurant is located at 2402 Strand St, Galveston, TX 77550.
Black Pearl Oyster Bar
Black Pearl Oyster Bar is a must-visit place for oyster lovers.
The oysters here are fresh, large, and free of grit.
The menu offers all kinds of options: raw, broiled, baked, smoked oysters!
We recommend trying their famous raw oysters on the shell, oyster po-boy, as well as gator bites, ceviche, and onion rings.
It is located at 327, 23rd Street.
Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant
Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Galveston, Texas if you’re looking for some authentic Italian cuisine.
Their restaurant serves all the classic Italian dishes such as lasagna, lobster ravioli, gnocchi, chicken parmigiana, pizza, and more!
Their desserts are also phenomenal: choose from homemade gelatos, red velvet cake, chocolate cake, and pies.
Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar
Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar is a local favorite for those looking to enjoy some great food and drinks.
It is located in the downtown Theatre District and offers a taste of Louisiana on the island.
Their seafood gumbo is a must-try – loaded with shrimp, crab, and oyster!
They also have excellent po-boys, etouffee, fried okra, and beignets.
The service is always attentive and friendly.
The Cajun restaurant is located at 2107 Post Office St, Galveston, TX.
Traveling to Galveston with the family for a fun beach vacation? Read our post on 13 Best things to do in Galveston with kids now.
Fish Tales
Fish Tales is a casual beachfront seafood restaurant located on Seawall Blvd.
The views of the Pleasure Pier, the beaches, and the Gulf of Mexico are beautiful and make for a perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood.
Their menu has all of your seafood favorites like shrimp, oysters, crab legs, and freshly caught fish.
Rudy & Paco Restaurant & Bar
If you’re looking for a place that will make your date night magical, then look no further!
Rudy & Paco Restaurant & Bar has everything from great food to fantastic service and a full bar.
It is definitely one of the best restaurants in Galveston, Texas.
It is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, thanks to its unforgettable dining experience
Some of the most popular dishes include escargot, ceviche, snapper, and meatloaf.
The Chile de Poblano soup is also delicious.
Be sure to save room for their desserts as well.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of Galveston’s most popular seafood restaurants, known for its fresh seafood and beautiful views of the harbor.
The menu features a wide variety of seafood, from grilled fish and shrimp to lobster and crabcakes.
The restaurant is most known for its famous Shrimp Kisses.
This dish of bacon-wrapped shrimp is stuffed with jalapeño cream cheese and fried to perfection!
The Original Mexican Cafe
Craving Mexican food in Galveston?
The Original Mexican Cafe is your go-to spot!
This restaurant offers delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine in a casual and laid-back setting.
Their enchilada plate and chicken fajitas are some of their most popular dishes, but they also have tacos, quesadillas, and other Tex Mex faves.
Shrimp N Stuff Downtown
Shrimp N Stuff Downtown is a local seafood spot that is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
The restaurant is known for its large portions and fresh seafood.
Some of their most popular dishes include shrimp gumbo, crab cakes, and fried fish.
They also have a great selection of salads and appetizers.
Miller’s Seawall Grill
Miller’s is our favorite brunch and breakfast spot in Galveston.
They have everything from classic breakfast dishes like pancakes, waffles, and eggs benedict to more unusual choices including steak and eggs.
With a large selection of delicious Bloody Marys and mimosas to choose from, it’s the perfect spot for a lazy brunch on the weekend.
Miller’s Seawall Grill is located at 1824 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550.
Yamato Japanese Restaurant
Yamato Japanese Restaurant is the perfect place to go for a sushi fix.
The sushi is fresh, the service is attentive, and the ambiance is calming.
They also have many non-sushi options including chicken teriyaki and hibachi.
Poop Deck
Poop Deck is the perfect place to hang out with friends.
It’s located right on the beach, making it an ideal spot for grabbing a beer after a day at the beach.
However, the pub offers no food.
Galveston’s local restaurants are perfect to enjoy the Texas Gulf Coast views, feast on seafood dishes, and sip fine wines or ice cold craft beers!
What is your favorite restaurant in Galveston? Let us know below!
You cannot leave Maceo’s Spice and Import off of this list. Best Muffalettas, best Gumbo, best blackened shrimp Po Boys, best red beans and rice, best sandwiches in general, and they do best chicken and waffles on Sunday brunch. You can also shop fresh spices and imported foods while there!!!
Trattoria la Vigne is by far one of the Best restaurants in Galveston.
My husband I just went to fishtails the other night! And they were horrible it was nothing like when we were here before! They need to offer more grilled items as a platter for people to share because not everybody eats fried anymore andthey also need to have better low carb drinks(Truly Seltzer)in there as well
The original Mexican food restaurant is fantastic. The prices are good and the service is good also
I’ve eaten at several picc the places mentioned and none compare to Yaga’s on the Strand. Their seafood flautas on the appetizer menu is enough for a meal and are wonderful! Everything I’ve eaten there is wonderful. Great Sunday brunch! Casual dining at its best
where can I find fresh salt water taffy in Galveston Texas
We just discovered Fish Company Taco on 23rd near the seawall and the fish tacos might be the best I’ve ever had.
Please add me to your email list,thanks!
The Taco Cabana is usually pretty good
Pho Tai should be on this list. Unassuming but excellent food and service.