Top Restaurants In Port Aransas, Texas

Restaurant, Mexican, Authentic, North American, $$
At Irie’s Island Food, the emphasis is on fresh food, made with high-quality ingredients and with a creative twist. Although the space is tiny, the choice is big, with all the family favorites including po’ boy sandwiches and burgers. Many come for the delicious tacos, served on home-made tortillas. Popular choices include the grilled wahoo taco and panko mahi taco. Grab a spot on the picnic tables outside or take-away for an afternoon on the beach. Irie’s is open from 11am-3pm, but go early, as during summer they often sell out before 3pm.

Restaurant, Seafood, American, Gluten-free, $
Don’t be fooled by outside appearances at Beach and Station Grill. This centrally located, colorful wooden bungalow serves great local seafood in a casual, relaxed setting. Take your pick from seating in the cozy inside or the terrace outside. The house specialties are broiled flounder and shrimps though don’t be afraid to follow the staff’s suggestions for the catch of the day. The restaurant also offers American staples like burgers and chicken. Save some space for dessert, with key lime pie and bourbon pecan pie among the choices.

Restaurant, Italian, Seafood, Vegetarian, $$
For something a bit different, try real Italian food at the Venetian Hot Plate. Opened in 1995 by owners originally from Venice, the restaurant does a good job of bringing authentic Italian ingredients and tastes to the Gulf Coast. The Venetian Hot Plate is very popular, so reservations are recommended. Signature dishes include the misto mare (a combination of seafood), and beef medallions with a gorgonzola sauce. As expected, the accompanying wine list is worth exploring.

Restaurant, Seafood, Cajun, American, $

Crazy Cajun is a great place to enjoy the fresh local seafood with a distinct Cajun and Créole flavor. It’s the place to come for a fun and relaxed evening with friends, rather than a date night. Some nights have live bands playing to add to the atmosphere. Be prepared to get messy, as the food is literally dumped straight on the white tablecloth, and eating with your hands is encouraged. Try their signature ‘crazy Cajun favorites’ – a combination of fresh shrimp, crab, crawfish, clams, smoked sausage, corn-on-the-cob and potatoes. The seafood boils are another popular choice.

Restaurant, American, Seafood, Vegetarian, Gluten-free
Housed in the historic Tarpon Inn, this is an upmarket choice in Port Aransas. Roosevelt’s is a good destination for a celebration. The restaurant serves gourmet dishes based on fresh ingredients. It is a small, intimate place perfect for a romantic dinner, which offers not only seafood staples, but also juicy steak. Sit back, enjoy the atmosphere, the service and, of course, the food.

Bar, Restaurant, Seafood, American, Wine, Cocktails, Beer, Pub Grub, $
The Black Marlin is a modern, airy building in the Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Club, with live music and great sea views. It offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for romance or a fun night out with friends. Take your pick from dining on the outdoor patio or sipping cocktails at sunset on the third floor. The diverse menu ranges from kobe burgers to bone marrow. Try their mahi-mahi grilled tacos, or their beef sliders.

Coffee Shop, American, Coffee, Tea , Vegetarian, $
Not strictly a restaurant, but Coffee Waves deserves a visit if you’re looking for a coffee or gelato fix to get you through a stressful afternoon on the beach. Its cozy interior is a good place to relax with a book or catch up on emails. Coffee Waves has a large selection of delicious iced and frozen drinks, in addition to the traditional hot coffees. It also serves sandwiches, muffins and other snacks to keep the hunger pangs at bay.