Texas offers a diverse array of seafood dining experiences, from bustling coastal towns to vibrant urban centers. With its extensive Gulf Coast and thriving culinary scene, the Lone Star State has become a hub for fresh, high-quality seafood dishes that showcase both local flavors and international influences.
From succulent Gulf shrimp to perfectly grilled redfish, Texas seafood restaurants serve up an impressive variety of ocean-to-table delicacies. These establishments range from casual beachside eateries to upscale fine dining destinations, each offering unique takes on classic seafood preparations. Whether you’re craving Cajun-inspired crawfish boils or seeking innovative seafood fusion cuisine, Texas has something to satisfy every palate.
1) Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant, Galveston
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant stands as a coastal classic in Galveston, Texas. Since 1911, this establishment has been serving some of the freshest seafood on the Gulf Coast.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality has made it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Gaido’s can accommodate up to 2,500 diners daily, making it the largest fresh fish house on the coast.
Gaido’s menu features a variety of seafood dishes, prepared through filleting, frying, grilling, and baking. Their Crustless Pecan Pie has been voted the best in Texas by numerous publications.
The restaurant’s ambiance evokes a 1920s ocean liner vibe, complete with stunning Gulf views. It has become a cherished spot for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and reunions.
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant is located at 3828 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550. For reservations or inquiries, call 409-761-5500. Visit their website at gaidosseafoodrestaurant.com for more information.
2) Perla’s Seafood and Oyster Bar, Austin
Perla’s Seafood and Oyster Bar stands out as a premier seafood destination in Austin. Located on bustling South Congress Avenue, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience.
The restaurant is renowned for its extensive selection of oysters from both the East and West coasts. Patrons can enjoy these delicacies by the half dozen while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Perla’s outdoor patio is a major draw, providing an ideal spot for people-watching along South Congress. The spacious seating area allows guests to savor their meals in a relaxed, open-air setting.
Founded in 2009 by skilled chefs, Perla’s has established itself as a go-to spot for Gulf seafood. The menu features a variety of fresh, expertly prepared dishes that showcase the best of coastal cuisine.
The restaurant’s bar is noteworthy, offering excellent service and engaging conversation. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a cocktail alongside the seafood offerings.
Perla’s Seafood and Oyster Bar
1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Website: www.perlasaustin.com
3) Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Houston
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen offers a taste of New Orleans-style seafood in the heart of Houston. This popular chain restaurant serves generous portions of Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes.
The downtown Houston location, known as Pappadeaux #41, is situated inside the George R. Brown Convention Center. This makes it a convenient spot for conference attendees and concert-goers.
Diners can expect a menu featuring seafood gumbo, fresh fish, and other Gulf Coast favorites. The restaurant’s atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with attentive staff ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Pappadeaux has roots dating back to 1897 when H.D. Pappas immigrated from Greece to America. His passion for quality and service laid the foundation for the restaurant’s success.
The restaurant’s commitment to serving hearty portions and maintaining high standards has made it a staple in Houston’s dining scene.
Address: 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston, TX 77010
Website: www.pappadeaux.com
4) Salt Traders Coastal Cooking, Round Rock
Salt Traders Coastal Cooking brings a taste of the coast to Round Rock, Texas. This seafood-centric restaurant offers a diverse menu inspired by coastal travels and memorable seaside meals.
The establishment prides itself on sourcing sustainable seafood from top vendors along the American coastline. Special attention is given to Gulf Coast offerings, balancing surf and turf options to cater to various palates.
Salt Traders’ menu features a wide selection of seafood dishes. Diners can expect fresh, expertly prepared options that showcase the flavors of the sea.
The restaurant maintains high standards, earning an average rating of 4.6 stars from patrons. Its popularity is evident in its rank as the 4th best restaurant out of 275 in Round Rock on Tripadvisor.
Salt Traders Coastal Cooking provides a welcoming atmosphere for seafood enthusiasts. The restaurant offers dine-in services, online ordering, and private dining options for special occasions.
Contact Details:
Address: Round Rock, TX
Website: salttradersccstalcooking.com
Reservations: Available online
5) The Oasis on Lake Travis, Austin
The Oasis on Lake Travis offers a unique dining experience with stunning sunset views over the lake. Known as “The Sunset Capital of Texas,” this restaurant attracts visitors from around the world.
Perched 450 feet above Lake Travis, The Oasis provides panoramic vistas of the Hill Country. The multi-level decks are perfect for enjoying the scenery while savoring seafood dishes.
The menu features a variety of seafood options, including grilled mahi-mahi, blackened redfish, and shrimp tacos. Guests can also indulge in non-seafood items like steaks and Tex-Mex favorites.
The Oasis combines picturesque views with a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for special occasions and gatherings. Live music often adds to the ambiance, especially during sunset hours.
While the views are the main attraction, the seafood offerings contribute to the overall appeal of this iconic Austin destination.
Contact: 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732
Phone: (512) 266-2442
Website: www.oasis-austin.com
Types of Seafood in Texas
Texas offers a diverse array of seafood options from its Gulf Coast waters and inland lakes. Local fish and shellfish varieties provide a wealth of flavors for seafood lovers to explore.
Local Fish Varieties
Red snapper is a prized catch in Texas waters, known for its delicate flavor and firm texture. Gulf flounder is another popular choice, offering a mild taste and flaky meat. Speckled trout, often caught by recreational anglers, is a staple in many Texas seafood restaurants.
Redfish, also called red drum, is a Texas favorite for its versatility in cooking methods. Black drum is a lesser-known but delicious option, with a sweet flavor similar to red snapper. Mahi-mahi, though not native, is frequently found on Texas menus due to its popularity and availability.
Shellfish Delicacies
Gulf shrimp are a cornerstone of Texas seafood cuisine, available in various sizes and preparations. Blue crabs are harvested from coastal waters and enjoyed steamed, fried, or as part of iconic dishes like gumbo. Oysters from Galveston Bay are renowned for their salty flavor and are often served raw on the half-shell.
Stone crab claws, while less common, are a seasonal delicacy prized for their sweet meat. Crawfish, though technically freshwater crustaceans, are popular in East Texas and often featured in Cajun-inspired boils. Bay scallops and spiny lobsters round out the shellfish offerings, providing even more variety to Texas seafood menus.
History of Seafood in Texas Cuisine
Texas seafood cuisine has deep roots in coastal culture and traditional cooking methods. The state’s long Gulf Coast shoreline has shaped its culinary landscape, influencing flavors and techniques for generations.
Influence of Coastal Culture
Texas coastal communities have played a crucial role in shaping the state’s seafood cuisine. Native American tribes were the first to harvest fish and shellfish from the Gulf waters. Spanish and French settlers later introduced European cooking styles, blending them with local ingredients.
In the 19th century, commercial fishing emerged as a significant industry along the coast. This led to the establishment of seafood markets and restaurants in port cities like Galveston and Corpus Christi.
The cultural diversity of coastal Texas, including Mexican, Cajun, and Southern influences, has contributed to a unique fusion of flavors in seafood dishes. Gulf shrimp, oysters, and redfish became staples of Texas coastal cuisine.
Traditional Cooking Methods
Early Texans relied on simple cooking methods to prepare seafood. Grilling over open fires and smoking fish were common practices among Native American tribes and early settlers.
Frying became a popular technique in the late 19th century, with crispy fried shrimp and catfish emerging as beloved dishes. Boiling seafood in spicy broths, a method influenced by Cajun cuisine, gained popularity in the 20th century.
Gulf Coast cooks developed unique recipes like campechana, a Mexican-inspired seafood cocktail, and blackened redfish, popularized in the 1980s. These dishes showcase the evolution of Texas seafood cuisine.
Preservation methods like drying and salting fish allowed inland communities to enjoy seafood long before refrigeration. This practice contributed to the spread of seafood dishes across the state.