36 Best Restaurants in Orange Beach (Alabama Beaches)

If you’ve spent any time following along, you already know the Alabama Beaches—a name locals use interchangeably for Orange Beach and Gulf Shores—are a place we return to again and again. The sugar-white sand and sunsets may draw people in, but the food scene is what keeps us coming back. From fresh-off-the-boat Gulf seafood to cozy Italian spots, beachy bars with surprisingly great menus, and desserts worth saving room for, this stretch of coastline knows how to feed you well. In this guide, I’m sharing the best restaurants in Orange Beach (and a few Gulf Shores favorites), all places we’ve eaten, enjoyed, and happily revisited.

Another Broken Egg Cafe

Another Broken Egg Cafe is one of my favorite ways to start the day in Orange Beach when I want options—lots of them. Whether you’re in a sweet mood or craving something savory, this menu delivers. The cinnamon roll French toast is rich and indulgent, and their pancake flights are perfect if you can’t decide on just one flavor.

On the savory side, the Bacon & Chorizo Omelette is a standout, but if you’re really hungry, go straight for one of the Benedicts. The country-fried steak Benedict with red-eye gravy is hearty and comforting, while the crab cake Benedict is a close second and feels very on-theme for the Alabama Beaches.

Barometer

Barometer is a newer addition in Orange Beach, and its relaxed vibe made it a great fit for our multi-generational family. From a perfectly cooked Delmonico ribeye to bayou Cajun pasta, gumbo, étouffée, and seafood baskets, everything landed well. Start with the meaty conch fritters.

Brick & Spoon

Brick & Spoon is a solid choice for a New Orleans–inspired brunch, served daily until 2 PM. This is the place to linger. Their Bananas in Pajamas—bananas wrapped in egg roll wrappers and topped with Foster sauce—are fun and indulgent, and the breakfast fries with bacon, cheese béchamel, hollandaise, and egg are perfect for sharing.

If you’re into Bloody Marys, Brick & Spoon really shines here, with more than 50 options to customize your own. For something savory, don’t skip the Killer Creole Omelet, loaded with Gulf seafood, Tasso ham, peppers, and house-made hollandaise

Looking for unique things to do on the Alabama Gulf Coast? We’ve got a few cool ones in this post. 

BuzzCatz Coffee & Sweets 

BuzzCatz is one of those places that has a welcome vibe the minute you walk in—and the prices are just as friendly. For breakfast, the Buzz Bowl is filling and flavorful, and their cinnamon rolls (plain or pecan praline) are hard to pass up.

BuzzCatz also works well for lunch, especially if you’re looking for something lighter. Salads, wraps, and made-from-scratch specialties keep things interesting, and everything feels thoughtfully done. The breakfast platter gives you a little taste of everything, but the quiche and the griddled biscuit with gravy are especially satisfying — I ordered both.

Cactus Cantina

When you’ve had your fill of seafood, Cactus Cantina is the perfect switch-up. With multiple locations across the Alabama Beaches (plus one in Foley), this popular Mexican spot delivers reliable crowd-pleasers.

The Three Amigos cheese dip, street corn guacamole, sizzling fajitas, and traditional Mexican dishes pair nicely with their lineup of margaritas. It’s a great way to balance out all the Gulf seafood while still eating well.

Coast

For a meal with a view, head to Coast at Beach Club Resort & Spa. This family-friendly restaurant pairs Gulf views with a menu that highlights fresh seafood and classic favorites. Start with the Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes—the dish that helped Coast earn the 2024 Best of Baldwin award.

From there, you really can’t go wrong, whether it’s the Crab Crusted Redfish, Blackened Chicken Alfredo, Dry Aged Rib Eye, or the indulgent Snow Crab Legs. It’s a great spot for a relaxed evening when you want good food and an even better backdrop.

CoastAL Orange Beach

CoastAL Orange Beach is one of those places where the view immediately sets the tone. Sitting right on the water, it’s the kind of spot that makes you unwind and settle in for a relaxed meal. CoastAL’s menu leans into fresh, local seafood with a chef-driven approach, rotating seasonal dishes alongside a solid lineup of house favorites and just enough sweet options to end things on a high note.

If you’re starting with appetizers, don’t skip the Gulf Coast Blue Crab Dip—it’s rich, savory, and exactly what you want with waterfront dining. The Island Grouper Bites are another great choice, served with a piña colada dipping sauce that sounds unusual but works surprisingly well. It’s an easy place to linger, especially if you time it right for sunset.

Cobalt

Cobalt, tucked inside the Caribe Resort, is a go-to when you want a great meal paired with one of the best sunset views on the water. The menu offers plenty of variety, which makes it an easy choice when everyone at the table wants something different.

My favorite is the Avocado Stack—tuna, balsamic, and a crispy wonton working together perfectly. And if a beach day calls for a cocktail, their Bushwhacker, an Alabama Beaches staple, is the kind you sip slowly and remember later.

Cosmo’s Restaurant and Bar 

Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar is where chef creativity really shines. The menu spans seafood, pasta, and steak, and nearly everything arrives looking as good as it tastes. Happy hour is a great time to visit, but the food is the real draw.

The Savory Cheesecake—made with blue crab, apple, and smoked bacon—is unexpectedly excellent and one of my favorite dishes in the Alabama Beaches. For dinner, the Chicken Roulade over Parmesan risotto with sage and leek cream sauce is rich and totally satisfying, while the Filet Mignon paired with garlic and smoked bacon grits is hard to beat.

Add live music and a silky, shareable cheese dip with house-baked pita chips, and you’ve got plenty of reasons to stick around.

And don’t forget about the Banana Leaf-wrapped Sea Bass, named one of the “100 Things to Eat in Alabama Before You Die” by The Year of Alabama Food.

DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen

If you’ve ever wondered whether DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen lives up to the awards covering their walls, the answer is yes. Portions are generous, flavors are spot-on, and you will not leave hungry.

Start with Southern crab cakes, alligator bites, or the hush puppy basket (crispy outside, tender inside). The pecan-encrusted fish made with the catch of the day—especially triggerfish—is a standout. Save room for key lime pie, which hits that perfect balance between sweet and tart. Bonus: cocktails come in fun take-home drinkware.

Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar

Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar has been serving up local favorites since 1984, and it’s easy to see why it remains a staple. Their oysters—raw or baked—are always a solid choice, and the fried seafood platters with crinkle fries and slaw feel like a proper Gulf Coast meal. Doc’s was even named one of the Top 10 Seafood Shacks in America by Fox News, and it earns that title.

Flora-Bama Yacht Club

Over in Perdido Key, the Flora-Bama Yacht Club blends laid-back vibes with surprisingly creative dishes. Greek Shrimp Nachos and Firecracker Coconut Shrimp are must-orders, with a sweet chili glaze that keeps you coming back for one more bite. And yes—the key lime pie here is absolutely worth ordering.

Foodcraft at Gulf State Park

Inside Gulf State Park, Foodcraft at The Lodge offers an elevated dining experience in a peaceful setting. Breakfast shines with Banana Bread French Toast topped with sliced bananas, pecans, and bourbon-maple syrup. Dinner features thoughtful dishes like Honey Goat Cheese to start and a Spiced Apple Crisp to end the meal.

If you’ve ever written off hotel restaurant food, thinking it won’t measure up to other restaurants, the ones at The Lodge will wow you. 

GTs on the Bay

GTs on the Bay is one of those places that checks all the boxes—great food, a waterfront setting on Wolf Bay, and an atmosphere that works just as well for families as it does for a laid-back date night.

The menu leans into local favorites with some fun twists. Start with Totchos or Firecracker Shrimp, then move on to Shrimp-n-Grits or a steamed seafood platter when you’re extra hungry. Families especially love GTs for the outdoor pirate-themed playground, and the newly refreshed patio makes lingering even easier.

The Gulf

The Gulf is a laid-back waterfront spot built from repurposed shipping containers, and it somehow manages to feel casual and thoughtfully designed at the same time. The views alone are worth the visit, but the food seals the deal.

The Gulf’s seasonal menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients, with standouts like the Lobster & Shrimp Roll, Mahi Tacos, and Grouper Sandwich. Add a well-crafted cocktail and live music, and you’ve got one of the best all-around dining experiences in Orange Beach.

Side note: this was genuinely one of the best meals we’ve had in the area—and it’s pet-friendly, too.

The Hangout

The Hangout is an Orange Beach and Gulf Shores classic, and it’s easy to see why. Sitting right on the Gulf, the restaurant blends beachy nostalgia with fun retro flair, and there’s always something happening.

The menu is big and playful—think juicy burgers, seafood dishes, and chef-inspired creations. Fried Pickles and Chicken Nachos are great for sharing, while the Ultimate Seafood Boil or Alabama Cobb Salad make solid mains.

If you’re visiting during Thanksgiving, their $32.99 all-you-can-eat, multi-course family-style meal is surprisingly fantastic—deviled eggs, fried green tomatoes, gumbo, and more. Reservations are highly recommended.

Hurricane Grill & Wings

For something casual and dependable, Hurricane Grill & Wings is a solid choice. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in and stay awhile, namely on game days. With over 30 flavors of bone-in or boneless wings (plus hand-breaded tenders), there’s something for everyone.

Hurricane Wing’s fajita rice bowl is a nice change of pace from wings, and the garlic parmesan broccoli is hands-down one of the best sides on the menu. This is also one of our favorite Vero Beach casual dining spots.

Lauria’s by the Beach

Lauria’s by the Beach brings Italian comfort food to the Alabama coast with a relaxed, beach-bar vibe. With two locations in Orange Beach, this locally owned favorite works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Start the day with specialty bagels like the “Look It’s Lox” or Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bagel. Later on, the Margherita Flatbread, Hot Italian Beef Sub, and Spaghetti & Meatballs are easy winners. Lauria’s charcuterie boards pair perfectly with wine or a craft cocktail and are ideal for sharing.

Louisiana Lagniappe

Louisiana Lagniappe was new to us, and while we didn’t realize how upscale it was at first, the relaxed atmosphere and attentive service immediately put us at ease. The Lagniappe Favorites menu includes jambalaya, BBQ shrimp, grouper almondine, oysters Lagniappe, shrimp & grits, steaks, and pasta. It made for a wonderful family dinner, and I’d happily go back.

LuLu’s Gulf Shores

No trip to the Alabama Beaches feels complete without a stop at LuLu’s. This waterfront hotspot is pure vacation energy, with live music, a massive cocktail menu, and nonstop family fun. Crab Nachos and Shrimp and Grits are menu standouts, but many people come just as much for the experience. You can even arrive by boat.

Between two ropes courses, a caricature artist, beach arcade, hair wraps, henna, and constant live events, LuLu’s is in a category of its own. Don’t skip the merch—it’s part of the fun.

Luna’s Eat and Drink

Luna’s Eat & Drink is one of those places I keep going back to because it never disappoints. The menu leans Southern with a coastal twist, and there’s always something that feels a little unexpected. Start with the Beer Cheese Dip served with soft pretzel bites, and absolutely do not skip the Pimento Hushpuppies—they’re a game changer.

The Nashville Hot Chicken, paired with buttery cornbread, hits the sweet-heat balance just right, and their Bushwackers are legendary for a reason. This is comfort food done really well.

Fun Fact: Luna’s is part of a restaurant group that also owns Cosmo’s and Buzzcatz. We love all three.

Old Oyster House

Old Oyster House feels like a step back in time—in the best way. This cozy tavern serves classic Southern seafood and delivers the kind of experience that keeps locals and visitors coming back. The fresh daily salad bar (always a welcome addition) sets the tone, but the real standout is Boudreaux’s Favorite: blackened whitefish topped with Tasso and smothered in Conecuh sausage cream sauce.

Save room for dessert because the key lime pie and chocolate chip peanut butter pie are worth every bite. Don’t leave without popping into the gift shop.

Picnic Beach Bar & Grill

Picnic Beach Bar & Grill is a newer, counter-serve spot in Gulf Shores with a fun, modern vibe. The menu leans toward shareables and flavorful bowls—Mediterranean, Caribbean, tuna poke, and vegan options—all bright and fresh. It’s a great place to relax indoors or out, and the dog-friendly patio makes it even better.

While the atmosphere shines a bit more than the food, Picnic is still a solid stop for an easy afternoon hang.

Ristorante Carmelo

If you’re craving Italian food, Ristorante Carmelo is a standout, and romantic, too. Start with the beefsteak tomato caprese or lightly battered calamari, then dive into hearty pasta or perfectly cooked steaks.

The Quattro Formaggi pasta—made with Romano, Mozzarella, Bel Paese, and Parmesan—is my personal fave. Finish with the layered lemon ricotta cake, which is as good as it sounds. Carmelo’s menu offers plenty for vegetarians, too, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Rotolo’s Pizza

For a reliable take-home option, Rotolo’s Pizza surprised us in the best way. Their Detroit-style pizza is outstanding, from the crust and sauce to the creative toppings. Even the cheese sticks impressed me. Add in strong salad options, sandwiches, and pasta, and it’s a true one-stop shop.

Ruby Slipper Cafe

For breakfast or lunch in the Alabama Beaches, Ruby Slipper is worth the wait. Their Eggs Benedict Trio is the star—featuring Eggs Cochon (pork), Shrimp Boogaloo, and Chicken St. Charles—all on one plate. It’s indulgent, filling, and unforgettable. You’ll find Ruby Slipper locations throughout the Gulf Coast and Louisiana, but this one holds its own.

Sassy Bass Amazin’ Grill

On the Fort Morgan end of Gulf Shores, Sassy Bass Amazin’ Grill delivers friendly service, live music, and seriously good food. The charbroiled oysters come from Navy Cove Oysters just two miles away, and if oysters aren’t your thing, the hand-cut Gouda cheese balls with roasted red pepper sauce are a must.

Sassy Bass Island Grill

Just down the road, Sassy Bass Island Grill sits gulf-side at Gulf Shores Plantation (and yes, it’s open to the public—just tell the gate attendant you’re headed to the restaurant). The open kitchen turns out tropical-inspired dishes like Pineapple Boat Beach Bowls, Mahi Mahi Tacos, Peel n’ Eat Shrimp, and signature crab cakes.

Add a tropical cocktail and settle in.

Shrimp Basket

Shrimp Basket keeps things casual and beachy with classic Gulf Coast favorites—shrimp, oysters, fish, Southern sides, and cocktails. It’s laid-back, reliable, and great for families. Pro tip: download the Shrimp Basket app and sign up for rewards to score a free starter.

Sunliner Diner

Step back into the 1950s at Sunliner Diner, where breakfast is served all day, and the milkshakes are thick and hand-spun. My go-to picks include the avocado Benedict, banana nut French toast, and country-fried steak and eggs. But, Sunliner also has basic things for those picky eaters, like grilled cheese and chicken tenders.

With locations in both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Sunliner is an easy win for eggs, bacon, biscuits, and pancakes.

Tacky Jacks

Tacky Jacks is one of those places that feels like vacation the second you sit down. With waterfront locations in Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and Gulf Shores, it’s been a local favorite since 1980—and for good reason.

The menu is broad and crowd-pleasing, with seafood, salads, Po’boys, wraps, and plenty of options for picky eaters. The must-order here is the famous Tacky Shrimp, simmered in their special blend of spices and herbs. Order it with French bread for dipping, or served over rice or angel hair pasta—it’s flavorful and satisfying.

Topsail Steamer

If you’d rather eat in, Topsail Steamer brings the coastal boil straight to your condo or vacation rental. They prepare everything for you in their signature Bay Buckets—just add water or beer, steam it up, and dig in.

Buckets are loaded with fresh local shrimp, crab legs, clams, sausage, potatoes, and corn, all seasoned with their house spice blend. It’s a fun, no-fuss way to enjoy great seafood without waiting for a table.

Fun fact: Topsail Steamer even made an appearance on Shark Tank—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

The Village Hideaway

At The Beach Club Resort & Spa, you’ll find The Village Hideaway, a relaxed, family-friendly spot that checks a lot of boxes. This is the place for pizzas, salads, wings, and tenders—easy food that everyone can agree on after a long beach day.

Beyond the menu, the Hideaway shines with its arcade, billiards, golf simulator, and outdoor yard games. With 11 flat-screen TVs, it’s also a solid choice for catching a game while still keeping the whole family entertained.

Vinny’s Pizzeria

When pizza cravings hit, Vinny’s Pizzeria at The Wharf is where we land. Their massive 24-inch pies are perfect for sharing, and the vegetable pizza is my personal favorite—loaded with fresh mushrooms, spinach, onions, green peppers, and tomatoes. It feels indulgent without being heavy.

Not in the mood for pizza? Their subs and salads are solid stand-ins, making Vinny’s an easy win for groups with different tastes.

Voyagers Restaurant

For an elevated night out, Voyagers delivers every time. From the polished service to the thoughtfully curated wine list, this is a place where dinner feels like an occasion. Chef Brody’s reputation shines through in creative, beautifully executed dishes.

The chargrilled oysters turned me into a full-on fan, and the seafood platter—stacked with lobster, crab, shrimp, and oysters—is as impressive as it is delicious. Voyagers’ menu changes often, but one thing never does: the desserts. Save room. Trust me.

Wolf Bay

Wolf Bay feels like coming home. With recipes dating back to 1973, this restaurant pairs familiarity with consistency, and that’s a rare combination. The salad bar remains a staple, and Cha Cha’s Crab Dip—made with cream cheese, bourbon sauce, and bacon—is a standout and my daughter’s favorite crab dip on the Alabama Beaches.

The stuffed shrimp is always a safe bet, the service is reliably excellent, and the pet-friendly patio is the icing on the cake.

Woodside Restaurant

Woodside Restaurant is an all-day kind of place in Gulf State Park with a down-home soul. Breakfast lovers should zero in on the Muscle Shoals Omelet, filled with shaved ham and smoked Gouda pimento cheese.

Come dinner, the Lowcountry Boil brings serious comfort to the table. There are outdoor tables for those bringing pets.

Zeke’s Landing

Zeke’s Landing is more than a restaurant—it’s a destination. Located on Cotton Bayou, it also operates a marina, offers fishing charters, and provides boat storage. Start with the skillet cornbread, fried oysters, oysters on the half shell, or salmon dip—every appetizer we tried was excellent.

Zeke’s menu spans Gulf seafood, Maine lobster, Alaskan snow crab legs, steaks, and Wagyu burgers. You can even bring in your own catch and have it cooked. My fried grouper entrée was hands-down the best I’ve ever had. Finish with the brownie and vanilla ice cream—you won’t regret it.

Thanks to Bob Bales of The Traveling Fool for this review.

Some Excellent Sweet Shops

Bahama Buck’s

When the Alabama heat calls for something cold and fun, Bahama Buck’s always delivers. It’s so enjoyable, we even visit in the coldest of winters. This is shaved ice done right, with endless flavor combinations and playful add-ons that make every cup feel a little extra. It’s colorful, over-the-top, and absolutely Instagram-worthy—but more importantly, it’s delicious.

I’m a longtime fan of Tiger’s Blood, and if given the option, I always add the cream (condensed milk). It’s lighthearted, nostalgic, and the perfect sweet stop after a beach day.

City Donut

And finally, for the best donuts on the Alabama Beaches—and named Best Donut Shop in America by USA Today 10Best—City Donut lives up to the hype. I honestly haven’t had a bad one yet, but if I had to name my 3 faves, they would be maple-iced, old-fashioned, and red velvet. Pure, sinfully good deliciousness.

Deep South Cake Company

Deep South Cake Company is one of those places you might drive past without a second glance—and that would be a mistake. Tucked into an unassuming strip mall, this bakery is a full-on dessert powerhouse. The caramel cake is what they’re most famous for, and once you’ve had it, you’ll understand why people talk about it the way they do. It’s rich, balanced, and honestly the stuff dessert dreams are made of.

That said, don’t stop there. The cupcakes and cookies easily hold their own, and it’s the kind of place where leaving with “just one thing” rarely happens.

Southern Grind Coffee House

For casual mornings, Southern Grind Coffee House is a favorite. The avocado toast and breakfast burrito are standouts, and the Dublin cold brew is reason enough to stop in. The space is welcoming, the food is fresh, and it’s a great place to ease into the day.

You’ll also love the carefully curated shop connected to Southern Grind—don’t leave without trying the Bushwacker coffee. It’s a must when visiting the Alabama Beaches, and you can even take home a freshly ground bag to relive the trip later.

The Yard Milkshake Bar

If dessert is the mission, The Yard Milkshake Bar is impossible to miss. These over-the-top, build-your-own milkshakes are pure fun. I lean toward strawberry and banana combos, while the rest of my crew gravitates to chocolate and cookie dough. It’s playful, indulgent, and unapologetically extra.

Wrapping It All Up

Our best restaurants in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores (Alabama Beaches) guide brings together 36+ restaurants, bakeries, dessert shops, and casual favorites that reflect how we actually eat when we’re here—often, happily, and with variety.

From waterfront seafood and elevated dining experiences to breakfast spots, pizza joints, bakeries, coffee shops, and over-the-top desserts, there’s something here for every mood, budget, and appetite. Whether you’re planning a first visit, returning for your annual beach fix, or just looking to mix up your usual dining routine, this guide is meant to help you eat well and discover local faves.

The Alabama Beaches may be known for sand and sunsets, but the food scene is every bit as memorable.

Disclosure: A few of these meals were hosted by Gulf Shores/Orange Beach CVB for my familiarization visit. All opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.

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