Everyone loves Galveston. And if you don’t, then no bother. More Gulf breezes for us. Texas is good for restaurants. In a pool of butter sauce, a dollop of remoulade, a steaming bowl of gumbo, or right at the counter, all salt-air-kissed but welcoming—these spots are unifiers. They’re as vital for sunset dinners as they are for lazy lunches. So it’s no wonder the island has all manner of them: classic, new, waterfront, tucked-away. These are the best ones in Galveston.
Star Drug Store
$ | (409) 766-7719 | WEBSITE
Nostalgic in feel and in flavor, Star Drug Store’s two-egg breakfast is definitely a CLASSIC. You know, Comforting Like A Simple, Cozy, Iconic Choice. It’s fluffy, it’s cooked perfectly, but it’s all about the setting around it. Historic cabinets, soft background music, an open kitchen, and that original counter hit all the marks. It’s friendly, warm in atmosphere, and cozy. And like most CLASSICS, the breakfast at this historic spot in Galveston is best savored.
Pier 21
You can’t just be a waterfront with a ‘vibe’. Because having a ‘vibe’ is elusive and intangible, unless you’ve just got it. Pier 21 has, and always will have it. We have never left this legendary Galveston spot less than content thanks to a dolphin watch tour or two, and a visit that has never not involved their historic Strand district. Upscale ones, laid-back ones, with views of the bay and museums, and a stroll back to the hotel. This Texas hub is as good as everyone says.
Tacos el Faraon
$ | (409) 465-4524 | WEBSITE
If you love Mexican street food but usually find yourself craving something with more soul than your average fast-food joint, you’ll love Tacos el Faraon. Lit by the warm glow of string lights and the sizzle from the grill, it’s a laid-back taqueria in Galveston with a home-cooked feel. The flavourful, Tijuana-style birria tacos here have a rich, braised beef filling that’s heavy on the marinated goodness.
Pair them with frijoles charros and a cold horchata if you want to fully live out your coastal Texas taco fantasies.
The Steakhouse
$$$$ | (409) 740-8606 | WEBSITE
Steak and lobster can be done many ways and at The Steakhouse, it’s done the Galveston way. The steak is pleasant but the lobster stands on its own. Succulent pieces with the occasional buttery glaze (and a pleasing amount of truffle throughout the dish) are the kind of lobster that are best classified as dangerous.
You can quite easily find yourself lounging in this fine dining room, savoring bite after bite of the truffle main lobster with steak, pausing for a wine break, before returning back to your little shiny plate of filet mignon.
Dizzy Dorado
$$ | (409) 220-3220 | WEBSITE
When we think of the chocolate martinis from cozy bar Dizzy Dorado, we find ourselves getting tangled up in all kinds of questions and delights. What makes a martini perfect? When does chocolate become this smooth? Whatever the answer, one thing for sure is that the friendly drinks at the Galveston spot are amazing. Get them with snacks ordered from Seahorse Grill like we do, or get them alone. Whatever you do, make sure to enjoy each one in the welcoming atmosphere.
Float Pool & Patio Bar
$ | (409) 765-7946 | WEBSITE
Float’s shrimp tacos make every other beachside version look and taste like they’ve been assembled by a seagull using a flip-flop. These beauties, these are substantial. Crispy and golden on the outside, but straight and tender within. In a world of glaring coastal clichés, the freshly fried creations from this legendary Galveston pool bar shine bright. A special mention goes to the swim-up spot’s unapologetically messy nachos as well.
Diana’s Bartique
$ | (409) 974-4205 | WEBSITE
Every experience needs a twist. And in the experience of Galveston dining, the twist comes in the form of Diana’s Bartique. Or specifically, in the shape of a blue champagne. And, more specifically, whether debating the merits of a sparkling beverage actually matters when fashion and cocktails collide. Clearly not. While this boutique-bar’s drinks look like an elegant accessory, the conclusion is undeniable: complete and bubbly delight.
The Rooftop Bar
$$ | (409) 763-0300 | WEBSITE
The first time we tried to visit The Rooftop Bar we showed up at sunset without a reservation. The outdoor tables were all taken, the prime corner spots were occupied, and there wasn’t an empty chair facing the water. But inside by the large bar was a cozy two-top with comfortable chairs. Compliments of the attentive staff. The view through the windows, the friendly bartender, and the good drinks: some refreshing, some strong, some just right. All perfect.
The sunset seating we secured with a reservation the next evening was even better. The moral? You can’t put a price on a rooftop spot as scenic as The Rooftop Bar in Galveston.
Leeland House Galveston
$ | (409) 497-2047 | WEBSITE
If you think that ordering a simple coffee in a restaurant that specialises in creme brulee French toast feels a little basic, then that’s fine. You’d be mistaken of course, but it just means more of that phenomenal brunch dish for the rest of us. Put it this way, outside of a five-star hotel solving the breakfast blues, you won’t find a more impressive morning plate in Galveston than this French toast.
It’s part crispy, part creamy, but always expertly prepared, then finished with a perfect caramelised sugar crust. Find it at Leeland House Galveston for a cozy meal with friendly service and a great atmosphere.
Gypsy Joynt
$ | (409) 497-2069 | WEBSITE
The sweet potato tots at Gypsy Joynt are non-negotiable. Not regular fries, nor boring hash browns, but the perfect hybrid. They’re good enough to be eaten with just a sprinkle of salt but the sauces on offer at this quirky Galveston spot elevate the tots into a demi-god status. One can be dipped into the creamy queso (a thick orange cheese sauce woofing with cheesiness), while another can be used to clean up the remains of your lime juice, kale, and cranberry cole slaw.
A side of cinnamon roll seducing with sugar and singing with cinnamon is always welcome too.
America’s Kitchen
$ | (409) 763-4906 | WEBSITE
We have a lot of time for America’s Kitchen—an old-school diner with great comfort food. Drop by whenever you’re in Galveston and you’re guaranteed hot, fresh, and filling meals—whether topped with that divine blueberry sauce on pancakes for breakfast, or next to some crispy chicken tenders on a plate that’s been made to look generously portioned.