The Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area is renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings. Situated along the Gulf Coast of Texas, this region boasts a rich maritime heritage and direct access to some of the freshest catches available. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a diverse array of seafood dishes prepared with time-honored recipes and innovative culinary techniques.
From casual seafood markets to upscale restaurants, the area caters to all tastes and preferences when it comes to seafood cuisine. The abundance of quality seafood establishments in the Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area ensures that seafood lovers can find everything from succulent shrimp and oysters to perfectly prepared fish and crawfish. Whether one is in the mood for a traditional Cajun-style boil or a more refined dining experience, the local seafood scene has something to satisfy every palate.
1) Reel Cajun Eatery & Cajun Bar
Reel Cajun Seafood Restaurant & Bar stands out as a local favorite in Port Arthur, Texas. This American-style eatery specializes in Cajun-inspired seafood dishes that delight patrons.
The restaurant boasts an average rating of 3.9 stars, reflecting its popularity among locals and visitors alike. Reel Cajun offers a diverse menu featuring classic seafood options and Cajun specialties.
One of their signature items is the Reel Cajun Cheeseburger, made with a half-pound of Halpern’s triple blend choice beef. It comes topped with fresh vegetables and condiments for $12.00.
For those craving traditional Louisiana fare, the restaurant serves po’boy sandwiches priced at $11.95. The menu also includes a variety of other seafood dishes to satisfy different tastes.
Reel Cajun Seafood Restaurant & Bar is located at 7500 Twin City Hwy, Port Arthur, TX 77642. They are open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. For reservations or inquiries, customers can call (409) 203-8094.
2) Saltgrass Steak House
Saltgrass Steak House offers more than just steaks in Beaumont. While known for their prime cuts of chargrilled beef, they also serve a variety of seafood options.
The restaurant prides itself on its scratch kitchen, where everything is made fresh daily. This includes their popular Shiner Bock beer bread, served warm with honey butter.
Seafood lovers can enjoy dishes like grilled shrimp or salmon. The menu also features combination plates that pair steak with seafood for those who want the best of both worlds.
Saltgrass maintains high quality standards across its menu. Their commitment to freshness extends to their seafood offerings, ensuring patrons receive a satisfying meal.
The restaurant’s atmosphere recaptures the flavor of an open campfire, providing a unique dining experience. It’s a suitable choice for those seeking both steak and seafood options in Beaumont.
Saltgrass Steak House
3100 Interstate 10 South, Beaumont, TX 77705
Phone: (409) 840-4055
Website: www.saltgrass.com
3) The Neches River Wheelhouse
The Neches River Wheelhouse stands out as a top seafood destination in Port Neches, Texas. This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the Neches River, creating a picturesque dining experience.
The menu features a variety of fresh seafood options, including popular dishes like shrimp and grits. Patrons can also enjoy hand-cut steaks and classic favorites such as hamburgers and po’boys.
The Wheelhouse’s open-air concept allows guests to dine while watching boats pass by on the river. This unique atmosphere has made it a beloved venue for both locals and visitors alike.
Live music performances add to the restaurant’s lively ambiance, making it a popular spot for entertainment as well as dining. The Wheelhouse is known for its friendly service and quick food preparation.
With its combination of delicious food, beautiful views, and vibrant atmosphere, the Neches River Wheelhouse has become a must-visit location for seafood lovers in the Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area.
Neches River Wheelhouse
720 Lee Ave, Port Neches, TX 77651
(409) 853-1249
https://nechesriverwheelhouse.com
4) The Schooner Restaurant
The Schooner Restaurant stands as a beloved seafood institution in Southeast Texas. Since 1947, this Port Arthur gem has been serving up delectable seafood dishes to locals and visitors alike.
The Schooner offers a diverse menu ranging from classic fried platters to gourmet grilled specialties. Their shrimp and crab gumbo is particularly noteworthy, earning high praise from patrons.
Signature dishes include the Acadian, featuring spicy shrimp etouffee, and the Zydeco, a creamy Cajun Chardonnay sauce with crawfish tails. These unique toppings elevate their seafood offerings to new heights.
The restaurant’s atmosphere strikes a balance between casual and upscale, making it suitable for various occasions. From family dinners to special celebrations, The Schooner accommodates all.
The Schooner Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, with extended hours on weekends. They close on Sundays, except for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
The Schooner Restaurant
Address: 1507 S Highway 69, Nederland, TX 77627
Phone: (409) 722-2323
Website: theschoonerrestaurant.com
5) Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp
Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp offers a unique blend of seafood and Tex-Mex flavors in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area. The restaurant was named after the owner’s Aunt Juanita, who spent much of her time cooking fish.
The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including their popular Fish & Shrimp & Veggies Plate. Diners can also enjoy seafood gumbo or chicken and sausage gumbo for a taste of local cuisine.
Tia Juanita’s provides a casual and lively atmosphere with great music, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. The restaurant is known for its flavorful seafood dishes served at affordable prices.
Their margaritas are a standout item, with some customers considering them the best part of their meal. The restaurant also offers a kids’ menu, making it a family-friendly dining option.
Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp has multiple locations in the area. The Beaumont location is at 5555 Calder Ave, Beaumont, TX 77706, while the Port Arthur location can be found at 7500 N Twin City Hwy, Port Arthur, TX 77642. For more information, visit their website at tiajuanitas.com.
6) Floyd’s Cajun Seafood and Texas Steakhouse
Floyd’s Cajun Seafood and Texas Steakhouse has been serving up delicious seafood in the Beaumont area since 2004. This restaurant brings authentic Cajun flavors from Louisiana to Texas, offering a unique culinary experience.
The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including their famous oysters and crawfish platters. Diners can also enjoy savory steaks and loaded baked potatoes, ensuring options for all tastes.
Floyd’s is known for its excellent grilled tuna and vibrant Louisiana-Texas fusion cuisine. The restaurant boasts a full bar with an impressive cocktail selection to complement meals.
The atmosphere at Floyd’s combines Southern charm with Cajun flair, creating a welcoming environment for gatherings and celebrations. Attentive service adds to the overall positive dining experience.
Floyd’s Cajun Seafood and Texas Steakhouse is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive dining option for all patrons.
Address: 2290 Interstate I, Beaumont, TX
7) Crazy Cajun Beaumont
Crazy Cajun Beaumont brings a taste of Louisiana to Texas. This seafood restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh catches and Cajun specialties.
The menu features popular items like po-boys, crawfish, and other bayou-inspired dishes. Locals and visitors alike flock to Crazy Cajun for its flavorful seafood offerings.
The restaurant occupies the former Starvin Marvin’s Bar & Grill location. It’s the second outpost of a beloved Pineville, Louisiana establishment that expanded due to customer demand.
During crawfish season, Crazy Cajun receives daily shipments of live crawfish. This ensures patrons can enjoy the freshest seafood possible.
The restaurant’s atmosphere captures the lively spirit of Cajun culture. It’s a popular spot for those seeking authentic Louisiana-style seafood in Beaumont.
Crazy Cajun Beaumont: 2310 N 11th St, Beaumont, TX 77703. Phone: (409) 554-0366.
8) Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen brings a taste of New Orleans to Beaumont. This popular chain restaurant is known for its generous portions of Cajun-inspired seafood dishes.
The menu features Gulf Coast favorites like gumbo, étouffée, and jambalaya. Diners can also enjoy fresh fish, shellfish, and signature dishes like Crawfish Platter and Mediterranean Sea Bass.
Pappadeaux’s lively atmosphere and attentive service make it a go-to spot for special occasions and casual dinners alike. The restaurant offers a full bar with cocktails and an extensive wine list.
For those preferring to dine at home, Pappadeaux provides convenient takeout and curbside pickup options. They also offer catering services for events in the Houston area.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Reservations are recommended to ensure availability.
Address: 4040 I-10 S, Beaumont, TX 77705
Phone: (409) 842-1339
Website: www.pappadeaux.com/location/beaumont
9) Rao’s Bakery & Coffee Cafe – Port Arthur
Rao’s Bakery & Coffee Cafe in Port Arthur offers a unique twist on the area’s seafood scene. While primarily known for its baked goods and coffee, Rao’s incorporates local seafood flavors into some of its menu items.
The cafe serves a seafood quiche that blends Gulf shrimp with a creamy egg custard in a flaky pastry crust. This savory treat provides a taste of the sea in an unexpected format.
For those seeking a lighter option, Rao’s offers a smoked salmon bagel. The locally-sourced salmon is paired with cream cheese and capers on a freshly baked bagel.
The bakery also produces a specialty “Fisherman’s Bread” on weekends. This hearty loaf incorporates dried seaweed and fish seasoning for a subtle oceanic flavor.
While not a traditional seafood restaurant, Rao’s Bakery & Coffee Cafe provides creative seafood-inspired options in a casual cafe setting.
Address: 3504 Highway 365, Port Arthur, TX 77642
Phone: (409) 724-7782
Website: www.raosbakery.com
10) Al-T’s Seafood & Steakhouse
Al-T’s Seafood & Steakhouse is a popular dining destination in the Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area. This restaurant is known for its generous portions and high-quality seafood dishes.
The menu features a wide variety of seafood options, with Cajun-inspired dishes being a particular highlight. Diners can enjoy everything from fried shrimp to crawfish étouffée.
Steaks are also a prominent part of the menu, offering options for those who prefer turf over surf. The restaurant’s commitment to serving large portions ensures that customers leave satisfied.
Al-T’s has garnered positive reviews for its seafood and Cajun offerings. Many patrons praise the flavorful preparations and the restaurant’s ability to deliver consistently good meals.
The atmosphere at Al-T’s is casual and welcoming, making it suitable for both family dinners and special occasions. Its reputation as a local favorite has been built over years of serving the community.
Al-T’s Seafood & Steakhouse
Address: 3805 Highway 73, Port Arthur, TX 77642
Phone: (409) 296-9818
Seafood History and Reputation
The Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area boasts a rich seafood heritage deeply rooted in its coastal location and cultural diversity. This region’s reputation for exceptional seafood stems from generations of fishing traditions and culinary innovations.
Cultural Significance in Beaumont-Port Arthur
Seafood plays a central role in the culinary identity of Beaumont-Port Arthur. The area’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and numerous waterways has shaped local cuisine for centuries. Fishing has been a cornerstone of the economy, providing both sustenance and livelihood for many families.
The influence of Cajun and Creole cultures is evident in many popular seafood dishes. Annual festivals and events celebrate the region’s seafood bounty, drawing visitors from across the state and beyond.
Local restaurants often showcase family recipes passed down through generations, preserving traditional cooking methods and flavors. The seafood industry has also adapted to modern tastes, with innovative chefs blending classic techniques and contemporary presentations.
Famous Dishes and Ingredients
Gulf shrimp, blue crab, and various fish species are staples of Beaumont-Port Arthur’s seafood scene. Crawfish, particularly during peak season, is a local favorite often enjoyed in boils or étouffée.
Gumbo, a hearty soup-like dish, showcases the area’s seafood variety and Cajun influences. It typically features shrimp, crab, and sometimes oysters in a rich, flavorful broth.
• Signature dishes:
- Blackened redfish
- Stuffed flounder
- Fried catfish
Oysters, harvested from nearby bays, are prized for their distinct flavor. They’re served raw, grilled, or in dishes like Oysters Rockefeller.
Local chefs often incorporate regional ingredients like Tabasco sauce or file powder to enhance seafood flavors. The combination of fresh catch and unique seasonings creates memorable dining experiences that define the area’s culinary reputation.
Sourcing and Sustainability
The Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area prioritizes responsible seafood sourcing and sustainable fishing practices. Local fisheries and restaurants are committed to preserving marine ecosystems while providing fresh, high-quality seafood to consumers.
Local Fishing Practices
Port Arthur’s fishing industry relies on a mix of commercial and small-scale operations. Many local fishermen use traditional techniques like line fishing and traps to minimize environmental impact. The Gulf of Mexico provides a diverse array of species, including shrimp, red snapper, and flounder.
Seasonal fishing restrictions help maintain healthy fish populations. Fishermen often collaborate with marine biologists to monitor stock levels and adjust their practices accordingly. Some restaurants in the area have direct partnerships with local fishermen, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, sustainably caught seafood.
Sustainability Initiatives
Several seafood markets and restaurants in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area have adopted sustainability certifications. These programs verify that seafood is sourced responsibly and meets specific environmental standards.
Local businesses are increasingly focused on reducing waste and improving energy efficiency. Some restaurants have implemented recycling programs for seafood byproducts, turning shells into fertilizer or reef restoration materials.
Education initiatives aim to raise consumer awareness about sustainable seafood choices. Many establishments provide information about the origin and fishing methods of their seafood, empowering customers to make environmentally conscious decisions.