Outdoor Dining on Galveston Island

Where Coastal Views and Fresh Flavors Meet

Outdoor dining on Galveston Island is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

The sun dips toward the horizon, a soft breeze carries the tantalizing scent of island flavors, and a chilled cocktail waits at your fingertips. From patios overlooking the Gulf to lively courtyard cafes in Historic Downtown, the island offers unforgettable spots to eat, drink, and unwind under the open sky.

If you're searching for fresh Gulf seafood, waterfront dining, or a cozy patio with craft cocktails, Galveston’s outdoor restaurants deliver. Here’s where to enjoy the best al fresco dining on the island.

You can never go wrong with The Spot, the island’s premier beachfront American grub. Here, you’re in for an indulgent meal of burgers, sandwiches, wings and great cocktails with an open-air deck and Gulf views.

Katie’s Seafood House

This local staple offers seafood coming right off its boats to your plate, complete with delicious cocktails and stunning waterfront views.

Fisherman’s Wharf

This casual eatery offers beautiful waterfront views, and a menu of local seafood, grilled meats, and signature cocktails. Make sure to try its famous Shrimp Kisses, bacon-wrapped and stuffed with jalapeno jack cheese.

With two outdoor dining venues, you can't go wrong with Hotel Lucine. The Courtyard is the heart of the property where you can dine al fresco with a view of the pool and The Rooftop features 180-degree views of the Gulf and is THE place for sundowners.

Brewchachos Tacos & Cantina

Get your taco-fix at this fantastic spot located right off The Strand! On top of tacos and other delicious meals, that also have margaritas and 40+ Beer Taps.

Float Pool and Patio Bar

Featuring a great view of the Texas Gulf Coast, Float Pool Bar is the island’s favorite spot for fun in the sun. Located on Seawall Boulevard, Float offers great drinks and fantastic island dining with a one of a kind atmosphere.

Yaga’s is located in the historic Strand District offering casual eats such as pizzas and burgers, fruity cocktails and nightlife entertainment.

Taquilo’s Tex-Mex Cantina

At Taquilo’s you’ll find authentic Tex-Mex cuisine made with the freshest ingredients. Make sure you try its Certified Angus Beef fajitas and award-winning specialty margaritas in a fun and upbeat atmosphere.

Taquilo's Tex Mex Cantina

Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar

If you’re craving authentic New Orleans cooking, Little Daddy’s brings the expertise in steam kettle cooking with offerings such as traditional gumbos, seafood stews, and cioppino.

Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant

Come for the pizza, stay for the impeccable service. Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine at its finest; think hand-tossed pizzas, pasta, and mouth-watering cannolis.

Outdoor Dining

The Sunflower Bakery & Café

Located in the heart of Galveston’s historic East End, the bakery offers fresh baked goods, plus an all-day menu of down-home American meals such as fresh Gulf seafood, fish and chips, and beef stroganoff in a homie setting with a patio.

Learn More

Sugar & Rye is a fabulously renovated spot in the historic Strand District of Galveston, TX. Enjoy you fresh seafood and craft cocktails on their cozy outdoor deck!

Outdoor Dining

Riondo’s Ristorante

Located in the heart of historic Downtown Galveston, Riondo’s offers an Italian cuisine notable for the founder’s “farm to fork” and “sea to table” values, and notable wines in a sophisticated, airy setting with sidewalk seating.

Learn More

Outdoor Dining

Fish Tales

Located across the street from Pleasure Pier, break away from the beach and enjoy fresh fare on one of the most popular beachfront balconies on the Seawall in Galveston. Fish Tales specializes in seafood straight from the Gulf, as well as pastas, steaks, salads and more.

Learn More

Waterman’s Restaurant

Located right next to Waterman’s marina, the restaurant serves seafood and specialty cocktails with the most spectacular sunset view on the island.

Jimmy’s on The Pier

Located along the Galveston Fishing Pier, Jimmy’s offers a Southern and Country-influence menu full of comfort food and breakfast-to-dinner American eats - all of this directly over the shoreline!

Outdoor Dining

Number 13 Prime Steak and Seafood

Located in the beautiful Pelican Rest Marina, Number 13 boasts an upscale atmosphere with sweeping views of the water and a business casual dress code.

Learn More

Outdoor Dining

Marina Bar & Grill

Located in the Galveston Yacht Basin, Marina Bar & Grill offers an array of delicious seafood, breakfast plates, sandwiches, and more. Make sure to try its fried mushroom, smothers chips, and beer-battered Brussels sprouts.

Learn More

Nick’s Kitchen and Beach Bar

This lively joint offers a pool bar and live music, along with fresh seafood, juicy burgers and indulgent po’boys, and a self-proclaimed best selection of beer on the seawall.

Outdoor Dining

Stuttgarden Tavern

This 3-story eatery located near Saengerfest Park in Downtown Galveston offers great views of The Strand and Harbor with amazing German-inspired cuisine!

Located in Galveston’s tranquil Beachtown community, Porch Cafe is a must-visit for those seeking fresh, coastal cuisine in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting. With a focus on thoughtfully prepared dishes and exceptional service, Porch Cafe caters to every palate, offering options for vegan diners and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're after a twinkling skyline or a sweeping vista of the Gulf, these restaurants offer plenty of scenery to enjoy.

Houstonia Mag

Latest Stories

The Ultimate Guide to Seafood Spots That Define Galveston’s Coastal Flavor

If you're a seafood lover and visiting Galveston, Texas, then you're in for a treat! From shrimp to scallops, and everything…

Where to Get BBQ on Galveston Island

Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's nothing quite like the smoky, tender goodness of a perfectly cooked barbecue. Here…

Brunch and Breakfast on Galveston Island

On Galveston Island, breakfast and brunch isn’t just a meal, it’s part of the experience. Once you cross the causeway, the…

Podcast: Galveston Ablaze: The Great Fire of 1885

Tune in every Friday for a brand-new episode of the Galveston Unscripted podcast.

Podcast: The Rosenberg Library: Generosity, Resilience, and Knowledge in Galveston

Tune in every Friday for a brand-new episode of the Galveston Unscripted podcast.

10 Reasons To Visit Galveston in 2025

Discover new and exciting reasons to visit Galveston, TX in 2025!

Podcast: Landmark of Luxury and History in Galveston: The Tremont House Hotel

Author

Mellanie Perez

Mellanie Perez is a lifestyle, beauty and wellness writer and editor based in Houston, Texas, and—occasionally—Puerto Rico. Her travel articles have been published in National Geographic Traveler, Texas Highways, Korean Air's MorningCalm. She has been on staff at Modern Luxury Houston, and Sunday Riley, where she mastered the art of clean copy and tight deadlines. When not preoccupied with getting through the 10 books on her nightstand or getting in her daily workout, she can be found writing essays and poetry and learning trending dances on Tik Tok.