Best Gumbo in Galveston, Texas
There’s nothing like the hearty, warming comfort of a bowl of gumbo!
In Galveston, there is no shortage of restaurants to choose from when in search of a delicious roux, but you might have trouble picking a favorite (especially since chefs on the island like to put their own spin on this classic Cajun soup). If you’re in the mood for gumbo, here are a few visitor favorites.
Saltwater Grill
Saltwater Grill is all about seafood. Located in downtown Galveston just steps away from The Grand 1894 Opera House and the many art galleries of Postoffice Street, this nautical spot serves up everything from seafood nachos to shrimp and grits. Its special gumbo – packed with shrimp, oysters and crab meat – is a hearty favorite year-round.
Katie's Seafood House
From the owners of the famous Katie’s Seafood Market, this relatively new restaurant offers boat-to-table seafood that is as fresh as it comes. Located on Galveston Harbor near Pier 20, Katie’s Seafood House features classic dishes as well as clever eats like “buffalo snapper wings” (friend fish on the bone). It considers its seafood gumbo a “labor of love” filled with fish, shrimp, crab, and oysters in a thick, bacon-fried okra roux with sausage.
Fisherman's Wharf
Located at Pier 21, Fisherman’s Wharf has some pretty awesome waterfront views. What better way to take in the scenery of Galveston Harbor than over a delicious bowl of gumbo? Theirs features a smoky, dark seafood stock with shrimp and andouille sausage. (We suggest adding an order of the Galveston favorite “Shrimp Kisses” – bacon-wrapped, fried shrimp stuffed with jalapeño jack cheese
Black Pearl
Located on 23rd Street in historic downtown Galveston, Black Pearl gives off New Orleans kind of vibes. Featuring a full bar and plenty of Louisiana-style seafood dishes, like boiled shrimp, po’boys, gator bites and more, you can definitely satisfy your inner Cajun here. The Black Pearl gumbo is served with shrimp, oysters, crab, sausage, okra and a rich, homemade roux.
Sonny's Place
Located on 19th Street in one of Galveston’s historic neighborhoods, Sonny’s Place has the family-owned charm that is so prevalent on the island. Known for its New Orleans-style Muffaletta sandwich (a family recipe passed down for several generations), a visit to Sonny’s is worth a visit any day of the week. But its Friday-only gumbo, offered in shrimp, crawfish or mix, makes planning your visit for the end of the week worth the wait.
Allen's Kitchen & Grill
If you’re craving gumbo in Galveston, Allen’s Place serves up a comforting bowl packed with Southern flavor. This local soul food favorite is known for hearty, homestyle cooking, and its gumbo is a standout for anyone looking for a satisfying bowl. The gumbo is known to sell out, so getting there early is your best bet. Come hungry and pair your bowl with one of Allen’s classic Southern sides for the full experience.
