Fairhope, a thriving town on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, has long been noted for its panoramic views of Mobile Bay.
But that’s not all it’s known for.
If you decide to visit, be sure to try out some fabulous Fairhope AL restaurants and gorge on world-class meals.
With its vibrant summers, mild winters, and friendly folks, it’s the perfect setting for a charming dining experience.
And since it’s located on the shore of Mobile Bay, restaurants have access to the freshest seafood around.
While it’s fair to say that a lot of restaurants with excellent views tend to have mediocre food, that’s certainly not the case with Fairhope.
This “Beauty on the Bay” is home to some of the finest chefs working today.
So if you’re interested, I’ve rounded up the best places to eat your way through Fairhope.
Let’s get to it!
Top Downtown Fairhope Restaurants
Sunset Pointe
Call: 251-990-7766
Visit: 831 N Section St Fly Creek Marina Fairhope, AL 36532
“Panini” Pete Blohme, an alumnus of the Culinary Institute of America, started Sunset Pointe.
After his success with Panini Pete’s Cafe & Bakeshoppe in Fairhope and Mobile, he nabbed a spot in the Fly Creek Marina.
He knew it was the consummate location for an upscale restaurant that serves farm-to-table food and creative cocktails.
Anything less wouldn’t do the breathtaking waterfront space justice.
Along with restaurateur Nick DiMario, the pair operate Sunset Pointe, what some might consider a local treasure.
Naturally, the menu primarily consists of seafood.
They’re mainly known for their Eastern Shore Bouillabaisse, loaded with fresh fish and shellfish, and their seasonal Snapper Throats.
Like most upscale restaurants, Sunset Pointe’s menu is not that extensive.
However, it’s meticulously curated, and every item has been perfected.
Still, the selection is pretty down-to-earth, with familiar favorites like Southern Fried Fish n’ Chips and Grilled Gulf Coast Shrimp.
Overall, Sunset Pointe lives up to its name.
It’s a quiet little spot off the beaten path where you can enjoy excellent food, drinks, and sunsets.
Related Reading: Things To Do In Fairhope, AL – Check Out Here.
Gambino’s Italian Grill
Call: 251-990-0995
Visit: 18 Laurel Ave Fairhope, AL 36532
Rick and Gari Gambino opened Gambino’s Italian Grill in 1975.
The Gambino Family continues to provide the best in Italian classics, steaks, seafood, entertainment, and atmosphere almost 50 years later.
Visiting Gambino’s feels like being invited to a warm Italian family home.
They want you to leave feeling cared for, filled with great food, conversation, and perhaps some wine.
The interiors may be a little old-school, but it adds to the restaurant’s rustic charm.
The staff is friendly and efficient, and the wait times are reasonable.
Should you decide to go, you’ll want to get their Prime Rib Diablo and Crab Claws.
Of course, you could also go for more familiar fare, such as the Chicken Parmigiana or the Shrimp Scampi.
Their meals come in large portions, ideal for sharing or those who have healthy appetites.
Customers enjoy their meals and conversations alongside music from the Piano Bar.
As you peer over at Mobile Bay, you have light jazz and standards in the background. What could be better?
Locals – Fairhope AL restaurants
Call: 251-517-9043
Visit: 312 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL 36532
Locals was started by a couple who wanted to build a business that allows them to spend time with their kids.
Their plan was to serve the best burgers around in a neighborly way.
Little did they know that they’ll manage to develop the best shrimp and grits too!
Locals is primarily a burger joint.
Aside from their five signature burgers, you have the option to build your own.
You can choose your protein, cheese, bread, toppings, and sauce.
All their bread is baked fresh daily, and all their cheeses come from a charming cheese farm in Elberta.
Their meats are also pretty varied, with lamb, bison, and venison among the usual selection.
They also have a modest menu for pasta, highlighting local produce and seafood.
If the idea of a burger joint seems too meat-forward for you, Locals carries an excellent selection of vegetarian options.
They also have gluten-free offerings for those with dietary restrictions.
If your idea of an excellent meal consists of a burger, a few beers, and a genial atmosphere, let Locals welcome you to the neighborhood!
Bay Breeze Cafe
Call: 251-990-0294
Visit: 212 ½ Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL 36532
Are you looking for the ideal lunch spot?
Get your midday energy boost with Bay Breeze Cafe’s soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods.
Located in Fairhope’s shopping district, it’s the perfect cafe to take a break from some deserved retail therapy.
Their bisques are their pride and joy.
Locals rave about the roasted corn and tomato bisque and, of course, the classic lobster bisque.
Pair that with a wrap or a panini, and you’re a happy camper.
Curbside dining is available, so it truly is ideal for a quick meal or coffee and people-watching.
Their meals are served fresh and in generous portions, too.
Their offerings are not strictly traditional because they add some nice twists to their dressings and ingredient choices.
Still, they retain their simplicity and balance.
The staff is lovely and helpful, and it’s hard not to come back once they’ve taken care of you!
Tamara’s Downtown
Call: 251-929-2219
Visit: 104 N Section St, Fairhope, AL 36532, United States
Tamara’s Downtown was opened in January 2008, and the restaurant has received the Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor with a consistent 4 1/2 star rating.
It is housed in a beautiful historic building in the heart of Downtown Fairhope, Alabama.
It offers casual fine dining in an elegant, Tuscan-inspired atmosphere.
With its open floor plan and over 6000 square feet of space, Tamara’s is the perfect venue for bridal luncheons, rehearsal dinners, business meetings, and special occasion dinners, as well as just a perfect meeting spot for friends.
A visit to the wine bar is a must, with an extensive wine list that will please everyone from wine connoisseurs to amateurs.
Related Reading: Best Burgers In Mobile Alabama – Click Here To Learn More About Burgers.
The Bone and Barrel
Call: 251-990-0782
Visit: 311 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope, AL 36532
Located in the heart of downtown Fairhope, this funky The Bone And The Barrel restaurant is a local’s favorite.
Here iconic eats meet live music in an eclectic atmosphere and pays homage to great tunes, unique art, and vintage memorabilia.
The menu includes hits such as Fried Ribs, over-the-top burgers, po’boys and sandwiches, fresh salads, local seafood selections, and daily soups.
They serve lunch and dinner daily, and there is live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.
Best Fine Dining Fairhope AL Restaurants
Thyme on Section
Call: 251-990-5635
Visit: 33 N Section St Fairhope, AL 36532
Do you want to go for something more modern?
Located between East Bay Clothing and the Hampton Inn, Thyme on Section offers fantastic food that exemplifies Southern cuisine.
Their head chef has over two decades of experience in the industry and is eager to share their fresh vision with Thyme’s guests.
The restaurant sources ingredients from local suppliers.
You can be sure you’re eating the best of the season no matter what time of year it is.
Speaking of the best, many claims that the Thyme Burger is the best in Fairhope, maybe in Alabama.
It’s relatively simple, consisting of a hand-seasoned patty, mushroom, goat cheese, tomato, arugula, red onion, truffle aioli, tomato, and toasted buns.
Still, these flavors work together like an impeccable symphony.
Thyme on Section also has a Mediterranean flair, with offerings like Hummus and Gyros.
If you ever stay at the Hampton Inn or you’re around the area, make sure to visit Thyme.
Come sample their unique take on Southern comforts and be pampered by their convivial staff.
Southern Roots
Call: -251-990-4300
Visit: 17855 Scenic Hwy 98 Fairhope, AL 36532
Southern Roots is The Grand Hotel’s proprietary restaurant.
I suggest making a reservation because seating is limited, and weekends tend to be busy.
If you grab an opening, you’re in for a treat! Southern Roots creates a stylish yet casual experience by combining a gorgeous environment, fantastic service, and chef-driven dishes.
They highlight high-quality, locally-sourced, and estate-grown farm-to-table cooking.
Their dining room is stunning, being in The Grand Hotel after all.
It opened in 1847 as a modest two-story building with only 40 rooms.
Over the years, its reputation flourished, with dignitaries and celebrities as hotel guests.
The Grand played a pivotal role in defending our country as a military staging site, owing to its location on Mobile Bay.
Run by Chef Cory Garrison and Pastry Chef Kimberly Lyons, Southern Roots’ kitchen sends out works of art.
From Champagne Poached prawns to Cardamom Cured Duck, their dishes can satisfy the most discerning palates.
While the dress code is resort casual, this is purely a white tablecloth affair.
With its elegant contemporary decor and priceless views, this is the perfect setting for a romantic date.
Related Reading: BBQ Restaurants In Mobile AL – Check Them Out Here.
The Hope Farm
Call: 251-340-3276
Visit: 915 Nichols Ave Fairhope, AL 36532
The father-son duo, Robert and Bently Evans, decided to combine their passions for wine and agriculture.
Built on a concept revolving around urban farming and local food, The Hope Farm works toward a more sustainable future.
Fairhope is their family’s hometown, so they genuinely take pride in their products and services.
The Hope Farm grows healthful, nutrient-dense produce using various sustainable farming techniques.
Every part of the farm is built to optimize output while minimizing the adverse environmental effects of traditional agricultural practices.
While their menu is not that large, it’s still incredibly varied and lavish.
Your party could get started with an impressive charcuterie board loaded with cured meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, breads, and preserves.
Everything is made from scratch, down to their breads and pastas.
All the proteins are locally sourced as well.
There’s outside seating on their great lawn where kids can run around and play.
The interiors are very modern, with a casual Napa vibe.
If you’re concerned about where your food comes from and you like establishments with a mission, The Hope Farm never disappoints.
Camellia Cafe
Call: 251-929-2219
Visit: 104 N Section St Fairhope, AL 36532
An alumnus of the New England Culinary Institute, Chef Ryan Glass leads the kitchen at Camellia Cafe.
He traveled around the country cooking under some of the most talented chefs in the US.
Camellia Cafe is an all-American fine dining restaurant.
Chef Ryan obviously serves his food as works of art.
Their menu changes seasonally. However, they retain favorites like their grilled filet of beef with mashed potatoes, a poached egg, spinach, parmesan, truffle oil, and bordelaise sauce.
They’re also famous for their white chocolate blueberry bread pudding with whipped cream. Yum!
Camellia Cafe’s atmosphere is quaint, intimate, with a touch of elegance, perfect for a date night or a celebration.
The staff is very hospitable and knowledgeable, ready to make excellent suggestions.
If you’re looking for a place to get scrubbed up for and treat your sweetheart, Camellia Cafe is an excellent choice.
The Fairhope Inn
Call: 251-928-6226
Visit: 63 South Church Street, Fairhope, AL 36532
The Fairhope Inn has a 25-year history as the grande dame of Fairhope fine dining.
You can try Oysters Brittany, Crawfish Beignets, Fried Eggplant Napoleon… or savor Strawberry Cheesecake Pancakes for Sunday Brunch. Benedicts?
And Don’t stop here. Try classic crabs, smoked salmon, and even filet mignon nestled with their local yard eggs for Sunday Brunch.
Their menus change seasonally to feature the freshest local flavors, produce, and products, from balsamic to bacon to beets.
Meanwhile, the Inn’s cellar offers more than 80 sommelier-selected labels of wine.
Wash House Restaurant
Call: 251-928-4838
Visit: 17111 Scenic Hwy 98, Fairhope, AL 36532
Wash house is a fine-dining, coastal cuisine restaurant in the heart of Point Clear, Alabama.
All cuisines are locally sourced and served in cozy rooms with a brick fireplace. You will find seafood, crab cakes, soups, hand-made cocktails, and house-made desserts.
Char 32
Call: 251-517-7700
Visit: 17107 Tennis Club Dr, Fairhope, AL 36532
Located inside the elegant and historic Point Clear Tennis Club, Char 32 is a steakhouse that specializes in perfectly cooked steaks.
They have a friendly staff with a relaxed atmosphere.
Related Reading: Mexican Restaurants In Mobile Alabama – Read More Here.
Other Places To Eat In Fairhope Alabama
Dragonfly Foodbar
Call: 251-990-5722
Visit: 7 S Church St Fairhope, AL 36532
How does Mexican-Asian fusion sound?
Located in Downtown Fairhope, Dragonfly Foodbar melds these two distinct flavor profiles to perfection.
The place looks humble from the outside, but the restaurant is much larger than you’d think.
Plus, there is substantial outdoor seating.
It’s a hip setting run by an amiable staff.
So, what is this fusion all about?
Think of Asian flavors jammed together in a taco.
For example, one of their tacos has five-spice duck, figs, cranberry, radish, and green chili.
Another has tempura lobster, avocado, and tomato relish.
These are not your run-of-the-mill tacos, people.
They also serve well-rounded meals in bowls.
One has Kung Pao Chicken, fried basmati rice with carrots, edamame, and a farm egg, topped with a peanut glaze.
Another has pan-fried Udon noodles, shrimp, carrot, jalapeno, and cabbage, in a green curry miso butter sauce.
This is pretty creative stuff.
Since this is a young, low-key place, the prices are relatively low.
You can get a taco for as low as $4.
You could order a bunch of food items alongside a couple of inventive drink creations as well.
Two Sisters Bakery & Deli
Call: 251-517-0622
Visit: 19452 Scenic Hwy 98 Fairhope, AL 36532
Breakfast anyone?
Two Sisters Bakery and Deli is a family-owned and operated business that first opened its doors on February 1, 2011.
The proprietors take a “hands-on” approach to guarantee that your food orders are provided to the highest standards.
They only use Boar’s Head premium meats and cheeses with their offerings.
Their sides are made fresh on-site daily.
Two Sisters is the ultimate breakfast spot in Fairhope.
You can come over, enjoy fresh baked goods and coffee, and relax with friends on their breezy deck.
They serve some mean beignets all day and mouthwatering french toast platters.
The place is a little outside of downtown Fairhope, but it’s still easily accessible.
It has its own parking lot and bike rack.
The interiors are nothing to write home about, but it’s all about the food and the service anyway.
And those parts, they’ve got down pat.
Mr. Spud’s
Call: 251-929-8699
Visit: 18957 AL-181 Fairhope, AL 36532
There’s something about Southern homestyle cooking that transports us back to a warm and familiar place.
Every mouthful is a warm embrace as well as an explosion of flavors.
It satisfies the stomach while also soothing the heart.
And, unlike store-bought pre-packaged food or fast food, it’s cooked with love.
This is the experience that Mr. Spud’s owner, Fred Nolte, wants to share with all their customers.
Since 1922, he and his family have been rooted in the Southern Baldwin County legacy of farming and home-cooked meals.
Fred is delighted to carry on the tradition and deliver the experience of authentic Southern food and hospitality at his restaurant.
With classics like Country Fried Steak and Gravy and Farm-Raised Catfish Filets, their food will satisfy any Southerner’s heart.
They also offer family meals to-go like pork chops, fried chicken, and seafood gumbo.
Mr. Spud’s is an authentic family eatery, complete with checkered tablecloths, heaping platters, and courteous service.
Related Reading: Seafood Restaurants In Mobile Alabama – Check Out The Restaurants Here.
Sage Lebanese Cuisine & Cafe
Call: 251-517-7536
Visit: 319 Fairhope Ave Fairhope, AL 36532
Maritza and Nader decided to open Sage by combining their business experience and love for genuine ethnic cuisine.
Sage is the brainchild of various cultural backgrounds, including Lebanese, Latin American, and North American.
Nader, in particular, began developing his culinary skills by assisting his grandmother in the kitchen when he was a little boy.
It established a keen sense of taste and an appreciation for preparing high-quality family fare.
On the other hand, Maritza came armed with her pastry education in creating a wholesome restaurant experience and creative desserts.
Naturally, Sage’s interiors are decorated in a Lebanese motif, with fascinating relics on the walls.
The staff adopts that famous Mediterranean hospitality that we travel to experience.
The ambiance is preppy but not enough to be pretentious.
They’re known for their juicy lamb chops, kebabs, and NYC-style chicken over rice.
Desserts are also an essential component of a Mediterranean meal, with Baklava and Kinafeh being the most traditional.
Sage is genuinely Fairhope’s local go-to place for Middle Eastern-style grub.
If that fits your palate, you must go and bring your foodie companions.
Big Daddy’s Grill
Call: 251-990-8555
Visit: 16542 Ferry Rd Fairhope, AL 36532
Are you the kind of person who wants their food in a basket, fresh off the fryer?
Then this is the place for you! Big Daddy’s Grill has been perfecting the fine art of local cookery since 2007.
All of their crab claws, shrimp, and oysters come from the Gulf of Mexico, sourced only from the Bon Secour and Bayou La Batre fisheries.
The catfish they serve is sourced from Alabama.
The relaxed ambiance and relaxing location on the gorgeous Fish River make it simple to unwind and let your worries drift away.
And they don’t play around when they say they’re laid-back!
Your food will be served in a casual plastic basket and your beer in plastic cups.
The staff will do so with that warm, Southern flair.
If you decide to visit Big Daddy’s, go for their famed crab claws and po’boys!
Related Reading: Fun Things To Do In Mobile Alabama – Click Here To Learn More.
Waffle House
Call: 251-990-2996
Visit: 373 South Greeno Rd Fairhope, AL 36532
Headquartered in Norcross, GA, Waffle House restaurants have been serving Good Food Fast® since 1955.
Today the Waffle House system operates more than 1,900 restaurants in 25 states and is the world’s leading server of waffles, t-bone steaks, hashbrowns, cheese ‘n eggs, country ham, pork chops, and grits.
All food is prepared fresh, cooked to order, and served from a kitchen that is in full view.
The menu offers a variety of foods with a breakfast focus and features multiple signature meals
Another Broken Egg Cafe
Call: 251-210-6901
Visit: 300 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532
Another Broken Egg Cafe Fairhope isn’t your typical breakfast, brunch, or lunch restaurant.
On their menu, you will find chef-inspired breakfast, brunch, and lunch dishes as well as hand-crafted cocktails, spiked cold brews, mimosas, and a full bar.
Their Fairhope, AL cafe is located in downtown Fairhope at the corner of Fairhope Avenue & Church Street, offering dine-in and online ordering for to-go, delivery, and a full catering menu.
The Sunflower Cafe
Call: +1 251-929-0055
Visit: 320 Eastern Shore, Fairhope, AL 36532
Located next door to Fairhope Health Foods in Fairhope, Alabama, Sunflower Café offers a healthy dining experience in a casual, charming environment.
They specialize in catering to those with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan, and vegetarians.
They source their ingredients as much as possible from certified organic, sustainable, and ethical farms and their meat options are always free of GMOs, hormones, preservatives, and other harmful additives.
Join them from 10:30 am – 3:00 pm for lunch 7 days a week!
Related Reading: Best Coffee Shops In Mobile Al – Grab Your Coffe From Here.
Ware House Bakery And Donuts
Call: 251-928-7223
Visit: 759 Nichols Ave, Fairhope, AL 36532
Ware House Bakery and Donuts is a neighborhood bakery and eatery located in the warehouse district.
It serves freshly roasted coffee and made from scratch food, using locally sourced ingredients.
You get handcrafted donuts here, plus you can build your own biscuits.
The Mill Fairhope
Call: 251-333-0211
Visit: 85 N Bancroft St, Fairhope, AL 36532
The Mill Fairhope is a food hall, bar, and event venue space with food and drinks choices to make everyone’s taste buds happy!
The food is prepared by local chefs and includes, Po-Boys, Deli Sandwiches, Juicy Burgers, Fresh Salads, Seafood Baskets, and much more.
At Mill, you can enjoy lunch, happy hour, and dinner with your friends, co-workers, and family (pet-friendly patio areas, too) in the heart of downtown Fairhope.
Their space is perfect to rent for a special event.
They have hosted Christmas & Mardi Gras parties, baby showers, wedding rehearsals, reunions, community gatherings, and more.
Bayside Grill
Call: 251-990-6300
Visit: 17855 Scenic Hwy 98, Fairhope, AL 36532
Bayside Grill is located in The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection.
Here you can enjoy mouth-watering local fare with ingredients sourced from local farms and their estate gardens.
Their menu includes everything from shareable appetizers, burgers & sandwiches, salads, woodstone pizzas, pasta, fresh local seafood, or a steak cooked to perfection.
You can dine inside or on the outdoor patio while the kids have fun playing on their activities lawn.
Soul Bowlz
Call: (251) 210-6999
Visit: 68 N Bancroft St. Fairhope, Alabama, AL 36532
Soul Bowlz is a healthy, nutrient-packed bowl of wholesome goodness.
They mix fresh, frozen, and exotic super fruits with no ice, no dairy, and no processed sugars to create a delicious treat.
They serve Acai, Pitaya, Acerola, and Graviola fruits harvested from the Amazon Of South America, and they will send your energy levels through the roof!
It is indeed a bowl of heaven found on the Gulf Coast!
Sonic Drive-In
Call: 251- 990-0900
Visit: 321 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope, AL 36532
For more than 60 years, SONIC, America’s Drive-In, has built the ultimate dining experience with their drive-in restaurants, and they proudly serve their guests in Fairhope, AL.
They serve fast-food burgers & fries with an old-school feel, including retro drive-in service.
At Sonic Drive-In, you will find made-to-order American classics, signature menu items, and speedy service from friendly Carhops full of fun and personality.
They offer half-price slushes and drinks all day when you order online or in the app.
Rotolo’s Pizzeria
Call: 251-990-4005
Visit: 100 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Hwy. 98 US-98, Fairhope, AL 36532
Rotolo’s Pizzeria is a family-friendly chain eatery supplying specialty pizzas such as muffaletta, pasta & Italian subs.
They use only the freshest ingredients and make their original dough fresh daily at each location.
Ox Kitchen
Call: 251-725-9385
Visit: 365 Greeno Road South, Fairhope, Alabama 36532
At Ox Kitchen, they pride themselves on quality, and simple food served in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Made with the freshest ingredients, their food is made in-house daily, from the smoked turkey and pecan-smoked wings to the homemade French fries, sauces, and salad dressings, even down to the homemade pickles.
Kind Cafe Fairhope
Call: 251-288-5766
Visit: 108 N Section Street, Fairhope, AL
Kind Cafe Fairhope is a mission-based cafe serving bagels made fresh in-house, coffee with a nitro cold brew as a specialty, and loose leaf teas.
Fish River Grill
Call: 251-990-3535
Visit: 11950 CR 32, Fairhope, AL 36532
Fish River Grill is Baldwin County’s award-winning “Funky Junky Redneck Joint!”
With their great seafood, signature cocktails, and world-famous Swamp Soup, you can find out what makes Fish River Grill the best burgers and seafood in Baldwin County!
Ohana Poke
Call: 251-517-7760
Visit: 561 Fairhope Ave Ste 102, Fairhope, AL 36532
Ohana Poke is one of its kind Hawaiian-style poke restaurant in Fairhope, offering dishes made with healthy and fresh ingredients.
They are naturally gluten-free.
You can create your own poke bowls just the way you like with over 45 ingredients to choose from.
Related Reading: Kids Eat Free Or Cheap In Mobile Alabama – Find Out Here.
Final Thoughts For Best Restaurants In Fairhope AL
Fairhope is rising as a foodie city thanks to its ideal location.
What attracts folks from all over are the simple pleasures that it offers.
It is both quaint and contemporary, and the food scene is far ahead in the South.
The next time you go, try out some of the gems I revealed above and get your eat on!
Hey, do you know it’s Mardi Gras season in Fairhope? Click the button below to stay updated about Fairhope Mardi Gras.
