Wherever the road takes me, finding delicious dining options is always a top priority. Thankfully there’s no shortage of incredible restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.
With so many offbeat things to do and places to enjoy the outdoors, you’ll definitely need your energy. Whether you’re looking to fuel up with casual grab-and-go fare, enjoy a special meal overlooking the water or take advantage of the area’s incredible seafood, you’ll find something to enjoy here.
So the next time you’re exploring Alabama‘s Gulf Coast, be sure to pack your appetite! Keep reading to discover 10 delicious restaurants in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, plus plenty of recommendations from fellow travelers and readers like you.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. However, all opinions are my own.
Table of Contents
Places to Eat & Drink in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama
The Beli
Every beach destination needs a go-to spot for a worry-free lunch or a sandwich for the road. In Gulf Shores, The Beli is that spot. Conveniently located on Beach Boulevard, this tiny deli offers a variety of delicious specialty sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. This colorful spot truly embodies coastal culture with an open-air design and plenty of patio seating.
The Beli, 408 W. Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores, Alabama
CoastAL
From beautiful brunch foods to elevated evening meals, CoastAL has it all. Located just steps from Orange Beach’s white sand beaches, this waterfront restaurant offers sprawling indoor and outdoor dining options for every occasion.
I’ve visited CoastAL for both dinner and (their newer offering) breakfast, and thoroughly enjoyed my meal both times. Not only are the portions plentiful but the menu items feature colorful, local foods the area is known for. If you’re planning a morning visit, I definitely recommend the Crab Cakes Benedict, which feature deliciously savory house-made crab cakes.
Before you leave be sure to stop into CoastAL Clothing Company to pick up some new apparel or a beach-themed souvenir.
CoastAL, 25722 Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, Alabama
Cobalt the Restaurant
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to enjoy a sunset dinner, Cobalt the Restaurant is a phenomenal option. Nestled under the Perdido Bay Bridge, you’ll have a stunning view of the bay no matter where you sit. But the view isn’t the only reason to snag a table at this popular spot.
At Cobalt you’ll find all sorts of menu items that highlight the region’s plentiful fish and seafood. From delicious appetizers like the Firecracker Shrimp and Cobalt Crab and Shrimp Dip to signature dishes like the Bronzed Gulf Grouper and Fresh Catch, there are plenty of fresh options to choose from here.
During a recent visit, I enjoyed the Bronze Gulf Grouper and Garlic Parmesan Chargrilled Oysters. Both dishes were deliciously indulgent and cooked to perfection. On the off chance you save room for dessert, be sure to grab a sweet treat from the restaurant’s lobby before heading home.
Cobalt the Restaurant, 28099 Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, Alabama
Flora-Bama
Named one of the world’s top beach bars, the Flora-Bama is an experience onto itself. While the street address may technically be in Pensacola, Florida, part of the charm of this storied restaurant and bar is that it straddles the Alabama and Florida state line.
The Flora-Bama has been a local institution since the 1960s and is largely known for its live music (and even livelier crowd). But in addition to their famous Bushwacker, the Flora-Bama also serves food in a number of a different spaces. Boat (or belly) up to the Oyster Bar for casual eats or pop across the street to the Ole River Grill for a more extensive menu.
Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Drive in Pensacola, Florida
The Gulf
For a relaxed outdoor dining experience, head to The Gulf in Orange Beach where the ambiance is as amazing as the food. Created from a combination of shipping containers and reclaimed materials, this unique eatery seasonal menu items with fresh locally-sourced ingredients.
Order your food from the central counter and then grab a picnic table or lounge seat somewhere around the complex while you wait for your meal. Especially if you have kids, this is a great place to come relax and enjoy a meal together. There’s plenty to see and do around the complex while you wait, though the food is surprisingly speedy even during a lunchtime rush.
While I’m usually a fan of hot lobster rolls, I really enjoyed the Lobster & Shrimp Roll with fries during a recent visit.
The Gulf, 27500 Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, Alabama
The Hangout
If you’re looking for a lively, family-friendly spot to grab a bite to eat, The Hangout is the spot. Located just across the street from the beach, this popular eatery has an open-air dining room and plentiful outdoor seating. There’s something for everyone on this expansive menu, from coastal favorites to burgers and salads. And be sure to check out The Hangout’s menu of signature cocktails, including the world-famous Shark Attack.
Lot of restaurants in Gulf Shores have unique decor, but The Hangout’s just might be my favorite. There’s plenty to look at and explore while waiting for your food like art installations made from PEZ dispensers, toy cars and so much more. Pop outside for a photo op or two and be sure to check the restaurant’s live music schedule.
The Hangout, 101 E. Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores, Alabama
OSO at Bear Point Harbor
Just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Orange Beach, you’ll find tranquil refuge at OSO at Bear Point Harbor. This dockside spot serves lunch and dinner seven days a week with breakfast available on weekends.
With a relaxed, rustic ambiance, this is one of the area restaurants known for its live music. Be sure to keep an eye out for all of the eatery’s bear-themed touches as well. One of my favorites was the big black bear right outside the entrance!
During a recent visit, I enjoyed the Blackened Shrimp Platter. But the real star of the show was the slice of Bushwacker cheesecake that we got to-go to enjoy while watching the sunset.
Oso at Bear Point Harbor, 5749 Bay La Launch Avenue in Orange Beach, Alabama
Perch
Celebrate a special occasion in Gulf Shores at Perch. Located at the Lodge at Gulf State Park, this upscale eatery has a seasonally changing menu that combines steakhouse favorites with coastal fare. Enjoy elevated dining with a beautiful view of the sunset along the Gulf Coast from the patio dining area.
During a recent visit, our group enjoyed a variety of menu items including the Seared Scallops with Glazed Pork Belly, Artisan Stuffed Pretzel and Limoncello Tiramisu. Everything was absolutely delicious and made me wish I wasn’t flying out the next day so that I could bring the leftovers home to enjoy again. Especially if you’re staying on-property, this is one of the restaurants in Gulf Shores that you won’t want to miss!
Perch, 21196 E. Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Picnic Beach
What more could you ask for than good vibes at the beach? That’s the motto at Picnic Beach Bar & Grill and this colorful eatery absolutely delivers on it. From savory seafood baskets to fresh bowls to sandwiches, the menu at Picnic Beach is sure to leave you feel satisfied (without getting too stuffed).
During a recent visit, I enjoyed the Tuna Poke Bowl, which included a delicious mix of fresh vegetables alongside lime soy marinated tuna. Linger a little longer to swing on the restaurant’s porch swings or get in a round of yard games before continuing on with your day. Plus, the vibrant, eclectic decor at Picnic Beach makes for a fun photo op or two.
Picnic Beach Bar & Grill, 128 E. 1st Avenue in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Pirate’s Cove
I love a good dive and Pirate’s Cove in nearby Elberta, Alabama fits the bill perfectly. While this low-key beachside spot is known for its Bushwackers, you can also grab a variety of burgers, sandwiches and more here. On the weekends, Pirate’s Cove also serves a selection of pizzas. Grab a drink, a snack and soak up the ambiance at this unique spot.
Plus, if you’re planning an adventure to see the oddities at Barber Marina, Pirate’s Cove is only a short drive away.
Pirate’s Cove, 6664 County Road 95 in Elberta, Alabama
Other Highly-Recommended Eateries in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama
While I’ve sampled my fair share of good food during my time in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, I certainly haven’t been everywhere. Fellow travelers and readers alike also recommended the following spots to me:
- Avenue Pub (4575 S. Wilson Boulevard in Orange Beach, AL)
- LuLu’s Gulf Shores (200 E. 25th Avenue in Gulf Shores, AL)
- Tacky Jacks (Three locations in the area: Orange Beach, Gulf Shores & Fort Morgan)
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Share Your Thoughts
I would love to hear from you! What are your favorite restaurants in Gulf Shores, Alabama?
