The 10 BEST Restaurants in Galveston, Texas

Living on the island of Galveston for a year definitely had its perks including warm sunshine, spacious beaches, and fresh seafood. Most of the time I was asked where to eat instead of what to do. Makes sense with the Gulf of Mexico on your doorstep to spend the day as a beach bum, right?

So I thought I would share my foodie wisdom with locals and tourists alike. The possibilities can seem endless with so many unique restaurants. Below is a list of my favorite eateries and hangouts. Whether you're visiting Galveston for a day or extended vacation, I've got you covered!

Breakfast

Home Cut Donuts

Start the day with a fluffy donut delicately fried to perfection with heaps of gooey jelly, custard, or chocolate. The Bavarian cream was my top pick at this no-frills donut shop, but there are plenty of other classic options as well. If you're in the mood for something savory, grab a hearty breakfast sandwich or kolache.

6807 Stewart Rd: Open every day, 5:00 AM-3:00 PM.

Lunch

Fish Company Taco

Flavor seekers will find a winner at this fusion spot full of creative plates bursting with local ingredients. Pick a seafood (shrimp/catch of the day) or vegan vegetable to go with any type of taco. I recommend the Asian flight which includes the Empire, Korean, and Vietnamese tacos. The spicy kimchi is also delicious if you need a snack while you wait.

1914 23rd St: Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 AM-8:00 PM, and Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM. Closed on Monday.

Koops BBQ

Behold the crowning glory of BBQ! Texas is known for its meat and this place delivers. The menu changes daily depending on what enters the smoker. My go-to was the chopped brisket grilled cheese sandwich crafted with tangy pickles and crunchy onions in between two slices of thick buttery toast with cheese oozing at the seams. Time stops once a bite enters your belly.

4501 Broadway: Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM. Closed on Sunday and Monday.

Old Moon Deli & Pies

Chances are you will head to The Strand (downtown area) to look for souvenirs and admire the historic architecture. Refuel at this sandwich shop with a handcrafted Rueben piled high with tender corned beef and side of potato salad. Take a seat upstairs and poke fun at the cat decor while you debate if you have room for dessert.

408 23rd St: Open Sunday-Thursday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM-7:00 PM.

Happy Hour & Drinks

Jimmy's on the Pier

A trip to Galveston isn't complete without drinking a cold beverage on a pier while gazing at the sunset. Make your way over to The Seawall to watch fishermen try their luck in the salty ocean. The happy hour here is hard to beat with crab cakes, bacon wrapped shrimp, spicy crab balls, and tuna tartar tostadas for only $9 USD each!

9001 Seawall Blvd: Open every day, 11:00 AM-9:00 PM.

Daiquiri Time Out

If the night is luring you downtown, be sure to hit up the best crafted cocktail bar in Galveston. With both indoor and outdoor seating areas, DTO has plenty of space to mingle. Get your island on with drinks such as the Singapore Sling, Hanky Panky, and Zombie. These expert bartenders will keep your glass full all night long!

2701 Market St: Open Sunday-Thursday, 4:00 PM-12:00 AM, and Friday-Saturday, 4:00 PM-2:00 AM.

Dinner

BLVD Seafood

For a casual meal that won’t break the bank or compromise on taste, choose BLVD. Start off with an order of smoked salmon crostini with chipotle crème fraîche and cilantro oil. Follow it up with a bowl of decadent seafood chowder with coconut milk and bacon. Oysters are available in season along with steaks, salads, and traditional bread pudding.

2804 Ave R 1/2: Open every day, 11:00 AM-9:00 PM.

Gaido's

First opening in 1911, this restaurant knows how to curate a savory meal with a touch of classy ambience. My favorite seafood dinner on the island began with a crisp glass of Sauvignon blanc and the spinach crab dip appetizer. Indulge with the signature crab cake stuffed jumbo gulf shrimp entrée. The lemon butter sauce is absolutely divine!

3828 Seawall Blvd: Open Sunday-Thursday, 11:00 AM-9:00 PM, and Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM.

Katie's Seafood House

Come to Katie's for a romantic date night sure to please. You can see the fleet responsible for the fresh seafood on your plate behind the restaurant on the dock! The generous portions have intense flavors that will make your tastebuds zing with approval. I highly recommend the American red snapper topped with lump crab and sautéed jumbo shrimp.

2000 Wharf Rd: Open every day, 11:00 AM-9:00 PM.

Dessert

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

Craving something sweet, fruity, and refreshing? Stop by Rita's for a gelati (frozen vanilla custard with choice of Italian ice) or blendini (mixed custard and Italian ice with optional toppings). The creamy treat was a treasured ritual after long days at the beach!

6026 Seawall Blvd: Open Friday-Wednesday, 12:00 PM-9:00 PM, and Thursday, 2:00 PM-9:00 PM.

Final Thoughts

I hope this diverse list of tried-and-true restaurants helps you decide where to eat and drink during your stay in Galveston. Be sure to make dinner reservations during the busy summer season. The island is a beautiful and friendly place to kick off your flip flops and play in the surf. Remember to keep an eye out for hungry gulls looking to steal a bite on the beach!