Dining

As an area that’s famous for family vacations, we know a thing or two about feeding the whole family. The Alabama Gulf Coast is full of great restaurants that are made for family meals, from their fun and relaxed atmospheres to menus packed with options for the pickiest eaters. We’re talking about places that are flip-flop friendly and full of entertainment, where kids are encouraged to be kids and parents are encouraged to enjoy a stress-free meal (and maybe a custom cocktail.) So don’t worry about packing your own nuggets – you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy a fine family meal.

White tablecloths. Wide waterfront views. Unique and creative cuisine. It’s all part of the package when you spend a magical evening at one of the Alabama Gulf Coast’s fine-dining restaurants. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want an elegant dining experience, you’ll find the perfect setting at one of the sophisticated and coastal chic fine-dining restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. From exemplary service and chef-prepared cuisine to award-winning wine lists and beachfront views, these spots are carefully designed to bring a little more to every minute of your meal.

You can’t leave without trying some fresh, local seafood – after all, it’s our specialty. Our coastal location means seafood restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach serve some of the freshest Gulf seafood in the country, from juicy Gulf shrimp and locally farmed oysters to award-winning seafood gumbo and the day’s fresh catch. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan seafood restaurants use quality ingredients to put their own spin on dishes that are sure to bring you out of your shell and soothe your seafood fix. Try something new or keep it classic with tried-and-true recipes — no matter what you choose, you’re sure to leave with a greater taste of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Not a fan of seafood? No problem! We’re still in the south, which means there’s no shortage of sweet southern BBQ. You’ll find a slew of award-winning barbecue spots that serve up delicious smoked meats, true comfort sides, down-home desserts and of course, southern sweet tea.

Nothing washes down a long day at the beach like tortilla chips and a frozen margarita. If you’re in the mood for a Mexican meal, you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving piled-high nachos, unique fusion tacos, traditional Mexican dishes, and tequila-infused cocktails. Whether it’s taco Tuesday or just queso o’clock, it’s always the right time for a visit to one of the great Mexican restaurants in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.

We’ll let you in on a secret — carbs don’t count on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Which is good, because there are some incredible Italian restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach where you can say “ciao” to handmade pastas, specialty pizzas, homemade sauces and more. Most of them even offer takeout and delivery, so you can take a taste of the old country back to your beachfront nest.