Dine Through History With These Galveston Island Institutions

Galveston has long defined itself as a food mecca, specifically incredible bounties from the Gulf that are perfectly prepared for visitors and locals alike.

From multigenerational restaurants to Galveston’s buffet of seafood rooted in shrimp, oysters and fish, dive into the culinary history of the Island.

Dining Through History
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant

Established in 1911, Gaido’s is Galveston’s longest-serving restaurant. A menu loaded with seafood delicacies helps Gaido’s tantalize guests and reminds locals of the Island’s seafaring specialties. One mouthwatering example is its legendary American red snapper, which is coated in parmesan, sauteed, then topped with fresh jumbo lump crab from the Gulf.

Gaido's Seafood Restaurant
Dining Through History
Star Drug Store

The first drugstore in the state opened its doors in 1917. These days, it’s open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The relic of yesteryear serves a daily brunch. The original soda fountain offers up floats, sodas, shakes, banana splits, sundaes and more. Look for the Coca-Cola sign at the front of the building—it’s one of the oldest porcelain Coke signs in the world.

Star Drug Store
Dining Through History
Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf opened to the public in the 1940s as a shrimp and fish shipping center. Now you can dine on dozens of fresh fish and seafood options, including the iconic bacon-wrapped shrimp kisses, pastas, grilled meats and mouthwatering sides, all while sitting waterfront. The outside patio dining ensures the smells and sights of the sea are intermingled with diners’ delights

Fisherman's Wharf
Dining Through History
Maceo Spice & Import Co.

The ambiance of Maceo Spice & Import Co. is truly worldly. Established in 1944, the unassuming brick building holds a multitude of delights. Come here for a meal or just to shop the deli cases and spices. The muffuletta, red beans, gumbo, po’boys, shrimp salad and brunch etouffee are classics. Browse through oodles of olive oils, cheeses, specialty foods, Italian desserts, pastas and more.

Dining Through History
Shrimp ​’n Stuff

Another homage to the Gulf’s savory shrimp, Shrimp ‘n Stuff began in 1976. Today, the eatery boasts three locations, two sit-down spots and a food truck. Known for their made-fromscratch- gumbo, po-boys, crab ball seafood and fresh, green salads, value and affordability have been at the forefront for nearly 50 years.

Shrimp N' Stuff
Dining Through History
Miller’s Seawall Grill

Debuting in 1967, the menu hasn’t changed much at Miller’s Seawall Grill over the decades. Serving three meals daily, their giant breakfasts are what started to spread the word. Full-plate omelets loaded with veggies and Gulf shrimp, French toast, waffles, pancakes and classic steak and eggs have lured in hungry locals since the Johnson administration.

Miller's Seawall Grill
Dining Through History
Sonny’s Place

Opened in 1944 by the Puccetti family, Sonny’s Place was immediately welcomed by locals. With a repertoire of gumbo, spaghetti, burgers and their mouthwatering shrimp buns, the establishment is a no-fuss, sublime sensory indulgence of true Galveston cuisine. A mix of American, Creole, ocean-inspired and Cajun. Remember, their motto is “Behave or Be Gone!”

Sonny's Place
Dining Through History
Mario’s Italian Ristorante Seawall

In 1967, another Galveston restaurant debuted, Mario’s Italian Ristorante Seawall. Nearly 60 years later, it’s still a town award winner; Restaurant of the Year in 2021 and Best Italian and Best Chef in 2022. A lengthy Sunday brunch menu, a dedicated pizza menu and a dinner menu with favorites such as Mario’s seafood dip, seafood salad, and classic Italian cuisine including veal parmigiana, shrimp francese and homemade lasagna and gnocchi has been satisfying the tastebuds of the city for decades.

Mario's Seawall Italian & Pizzeria

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Author

Visit Galveston
Visit Galveston is the official destination marketing organization for Galveston Island, Texas.