9 Texas Seafood Spots You’d Never Expect to Be This Good

Texas might be famous for BBQ and Tex-Mex, but hidden across the Lone Star State are some seriously impressive seafood joints that deserve your attention. From coastal gems to surprising inland discoveries, these restaurants serve up ocean treasures that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about Texas cuisine. Grab your appetite and check out these nine unexpected seafood havens that prove Texas knows its way around fish, crab, and oysters too.

1. Gaido’s, Galveston

Family-owned since 1911, this Galveston landmark has weathered hurricanes and economic storms while consistently serving up some of the Gulf’s finest catches. The vintage atmosphere immediately transports you to another era, with wood-paneled walls adorned with maritime memorabilia. Their famous pecan-crusted mahi-mahi practically melts in your mouth, while the seafood platter offers a taste of everything the Gulf has to offer.

The restaurant sits just across from the seawall, providing beautiful ocean views. What truly sets Gaido’s apart is their commitment to tradition – some recipes haven’t changed in over a century, passed down through four generations of the Gaido family.

2. Ocean Prime, Dallas

Nestled in the heart of Uptown Dallas, Ocean Prime defies the landlocked location with seafood that rivals coastal establishments. The sleek, modern interior with dramatic lighting creates an atmosphere of sophisticated indulgence perfect for special occasions.

Blackened snapper with corn spoon bread might be the menu’s crown jewel, but don’t overlook their lobster bisque – velvety and rich with generous chunks of meat. The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing sustainable seafood means your meal is not only delicious but responsible.

Cocktails here aren’t an afterthought – the smoking Berries & Bubbles champagne drink creates a theatrical tableside experience worth the splurge.

3. Monument Inn, La Porte

Perched at the Houston Ship Channel’s edge, Monument Inn offers industrial-meets-coastal views unlike anywhere else in Texas. Massive cargo ships glide by your window while you feast on seafood that goes straight from boat to kitchen.

Their famous all-you-can-eat shrimp option has satisfied hungry Texans since 1974, served alongside addictive hushpuppies that regulars dream about. The restaurant’s rustic charm comes with zero pretension – plastic bibs are proudly worn by everyone from oil workers to visiting celebrities.

History buffs appreciate that the restaurant sits near the San Jacinto Monument, making it possible to combine Texas history with fresh seafood for a perfect day trip from Houston.

4. Gilhooley’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, San Leon

Hidden in tiny San Leon, Gilhooley’s looks more like a weathered bait shop than a culinary destination. The no-frills exterior – complete with oyster shells crunching underfoot in the parking lot – keeps away those seeking fancy dining experiences.

Brave souls who venture inside discover the legendary Oysters Gilhooley: fresh bivalves roasted over pecan wood with garlic butter and parmesan. These smoky, savory treasures have earned national recognition despite the restaurant’s strict no-kids policy and cash-only operation.

Local fishermen often populate the bar, sharing tales of their latest catches while cracking open cold beers.

5. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Houston

Jazz music spills from the grand piano as servers in crisp white jackets navigate between tables at this upscale Houston establishment. While technically part of a small chain, the Houston location elevates seafood to an art form that feels anything but corporate.

Chilean sea bass steamed Hong Kong-style practically floats off the plate, while the cold seafood tower presents an impressive display of oceanic treasures. The restaurant’s wine program deserves special mention – sommeliers expertly pair vintages with your seafood selections.

Happy hour at the oval-shaped bar has become a Houston institution, where oil executives and young professionals alike gather for discounted oysters and people-watching in the vibrant West Ave district.

6. Martini’s Seafood House, Fredericksburg

Surrounded by Hill Country vineyards, this seafood gem sits 250 miles from the nearest coastline. The charming limestone building with its rustic-chic decor seems an unlikely spot for marine cuisine, yet owner Martin Delgado’s fishing connections ensure fresh Gulf deliveries three times weekly.

Blackened redfish topped with crawfish étouffée combines Cajun influence with Texas flair, while locally-sourced ingredients complement the seafood. Martini’s wine list highlights exclusively Texas vintages, creating unexpected but delightful pairings with seafood dishes that showcase the best of cross-regional Texas cuisine.

7. Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab, Dallas

Stone crab claws are the undisputed stars at this Uptown Dallas establishment, where tanks of live seafood greet you upon entering. The restaurant’s dedication to sustainability includes owning their own crab fisheries in Florida, ensuring traceability from ocean to plate.

The dining room exudes old-school luxury with leather booths, white tablecloths, and attentive service that makes even first-timers feel like regulars. Their famous miso-glazed seabass arrives at your table still sizzling, accompanied by crab fried rice that could stand as a magnificent dish on its own.

Weekend evenings feature live piano music that transforms dinner into a complete experience – sophisticated without feeling stuffy.

8. Tookie’s Seafood, Seabrook

Hurricane Ike nearly wiped this beloved Seabrook institution off the map in 2008, but loyal customers helped rebuild it better than ever. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere features nautical decor that somehow avoids feeling kitschy – fishing nets and buoys that actually came from local boats.

Their Oysters Jubilee – topped with crabmeat, spinach and hollandaise – might be the perfect single bite of Gulf Coast flavor. The restaurant sources seafood directly from Kemah boats that dock just minutes away, often featuring the fishermen’s names alongside their catch on the daily specials board.

Multi-generational families fill the tables, with grandparents introducing grandchildren to the same seafood traditions they’ve enjoyed for decades.

9. Sea Ranch Restaurant, South Padre Island

Perched at the southernmost tip of Texas, this unassuming restaurant has been serving fresh catches since 1977. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular sunset views over Laguna Madre Bay while fishing boats unload their daily hauls at nearby docks.

The restaurant’s famous snapper throats – a cut many establishments discard – exemplifies their nose-to-tail philosophy and deep understanding of Gulf seafood. Their signature dishes feature Mexican influences that reflect the border region’s cultural heritage, like red snapper Veracruzana with olives, capers and tomatoes.

During sea turtle hatching season, diners occasionally witness baby turtles making their journey to the ocean – a magical South Texas experience that no fine dining establishment can match.