Hey there, fellow seafoodies!
If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I can’t get enough seafood.
And Orange Beach is like a playground for those of us who crave the ocean’s best!
I, for one, always order a shrimp po’boy or shrimp ‘n’ grits at every new spot I try.

I’m always comparing and contrasting, trying to discover the ultimate spot that nails these dishes to perfection.
There are some incredible restaurants in OBA.
So make some room in your pants as we navigate the culinary waves of Orange Beach below!
Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar

Our first stop is Doc’s Seafood Shack.
Why?
Fox News wasn’t just blowing bubbles when they voted it one of the Top 10 Seafood Shacks in America.
Since 1984, Doc and his crew have been dishing out what they claim to be the “best friend shrimp in the entire civilized world.”
And that’s not all!
Their seafood gumbo?
It’ll give your grandma a run for her money.
And you can pick and choose to create your dream seafood platter with all their fresh offerings.
Now, I’ll let you in on a secret: this is where the locals hang out.
Doc’s might not be all ritz and glitter, but man, they’ve got charm by the boatload.
Where: 26029 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 981-6999
Wolf Bay Restaurant
Once a quaint bait shop in the 1940s, Wolf Bay has transformed over the years into OB’s culinary treasure trove.
Thanks to the vision of Charlie & Sandra Wrape in the 70s, today, it’s a standard for mouthwatering seafood delights.
As you tuck into their iconic seafood gumbo or savor the exquisite stuffed shrimp, you’re basically nibbling on a piece of Gulf Coast history.
With every dish, they serve up a blend of nostalgia and innovation, all wrapped up in a laid-back coastal ambiance.
(Much like their bacon-wrapped filet mignon!)
So, when your hunger rises like the tides, anchor yourself at Wolf Bay and set forth on a delicious voyage!
Where: 24131 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 965-5129
Related – prefer videos? Here’s one with some of the top activities in Orange Beach.
Cobalt

Cobalt isn’t your average eatery.
Tucked under the Perdido Bay Bridge, right by Carbine Resort, every table boasts a stellar view of the bay.
And hey, if you have a boat, you can pull right up! They have slips ready for your vessel.
But let’s talk food.
With three kitchens helmed by top-tier chefs, the flavors here are as expansive as the horizon.
BBQ Gulf Shrimp, Crab and Shrimp Dip, and Pecan Catfish are just a teaser of the coastal culinary journey awaiting you.
And their desserts?
They’ll have you dropping anchor and lingering a little longer.
Speaking of lingering, their Happy Hour is a must-visit.
From 4 to 6 daily, you can indulge in treats like the Cobalt Caviar or the spicy kick of Firecracker Shrimp.
With live tunes and unbeatable service, Cobalt is a surefire addition to your OB foodie list.
Where: 28099 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 923-5300
The Gulf
The Gulf is basically where Neptune would grab a bite if he were strolling Orange Beach.
I mean, those views scream, “I’m on vacation, and life is good!”
[fun fact: this is my absolute favorite Orange Beach restaurant — food is great, but the vibe is incredible!]
So, slap on some sunscreen, slide into your flip flops, and get your eat on.
My first recommendation is the Smoked Tuna Dip, and guard it, or it’ll vanish in seconds.
Then get a load of the Snapper BLT — it’s like the more refined cousin of your regular BLT.
Feelin’ fancy?
Give the Lobster & Shrimp Roll a whirl.
One more thing to note about The Gulf is their music selection.
Think beachy vibes with a hint of nostalgia, all spun on vinyl.
And if you’re in a shopping mood, there’s a cool shop with beachy treasures.
Where: 27500 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 424-1800
Big Fish
Up for some sushi?
Then head over to Big Fish for rolls, nigiri, and sashimi that’ll make you shimmy.
Dining at Big Fish is a full sensory experience.
There’s chic decor that’s as intriguing as their Ginger Glazed Shrimp Skewers (by the way, award-winning, thank you very much).
Seating matches almost any vibe, from cozy date night spots indoors to courtyard chillin’ by a fireplace.
Pair that with their impeccable service, and you’ve got the perfect setting.
The awards and accolades they’ve garnered over the years aren’t just for show; they’re a testament to Big Fish’s dedication to excellence.
Where: 25814 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 981-5516
Tacky Jack’s

Ahoy, flavor explorers!
Tacky Jack’s is the landmark spot that’s been the locals’ go-to for over 38 years.
There, you can kick off your morning with a radiant sunrise paired with the hearty Farmer’s Omelette and a zingy Bloody Mary.
If sunrises aren’t your thing, don’t worry.
Dive headfirst into their towering Mexican Garbage Nachos come lunch or dinner.
That compliments the legendary Bushwacker, the talk and toast of the Alabama Coast. Classic!
And between bites, don’t be surprised if a dolphin decides to drop by.
Where: 27206 Safe Harbor Dr, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 981-4144
Live Bait
Since 1998, Live Bait Restaurants & Night Club has been the pulse of the community.
It’s where folks — both regulars and vacationers — come to feast on locally caught seafood and high-quality steaks.
You’ll salivate over options like the Crab Cake Platter.
And if you’re bringing a healthy appetite, you can’t go wrong with the Megalodon Platter.
Craving some comfort?
The Shrimp and Grits should do the trick!
If you want to take advantage of this restaurant’s epic location, dine with the wind in your hair at their Tiki Deck!
And when the sun goes down, Live Bait truly comes alive.
The music, be it from rocking bands or the island’s top DJs, will have you burning off those calories.
Special events and concert nights sometimes feature big-name artists, too.
Where: 24281 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 974-1612
Fisher’s Upstairs

Imagine you just docked your yacht (or, okay, parked your minivan — no judgment here!), and you’re looking for the perfect spot to fill your tummy.
That’s when you stumble upon Fisher’s Upstairs.
With garage doors flung open, revealing a stainless steel bar top and a view of 160 yachts gently bobbing in the marina, you’d think you’d hit the jackpot.
And you have!
Not only is this a haven for yacht enthusiasts and beachcombers, but the menu is packed with delectable choices.
We’re talking fresh Gulf seafood, juicy burgers, crisp salads, and sandwiches that are core memory-worthy.
It’s Chef Bill Briand that’s whipping up the magic.
And by magic, we mean the finest seafood and prime steaks this side of the Gulf.
Craft cocktails? Check.
Curated wines? Double-check.
And just a little humblebrag — Chef Bill’s been a James Beard Award semi-finalist for five years straight.
So yeah, Fisher’s Upstairs is kind of a big deal.
Where: 27075 Marina Rd #300, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 981-7305
Bubba’s Seafood House
Alright, let’s get one thing straight: Bubba knows seafood.
This restaurant has been an icon since 1997.
They’re serving up some shrimp po’ boys that’ll have you drooling and crab legs steamed to perfection.
Their large build-your-own seafood platter is the stuff of legend, with the zingiest, zestiest picks from the Gulf Coast.
Think fried shrimp, oysters, clam strips, and more.
And they all come with fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies to complete the meal.
Try the fried pickles (Momma Queenie’s recipe) for that real Southern touch.
But Bubba’s isn’t just about the food.
This joint has history!
It’s weathered hurricanes and still stands strong, all thanks to Bubba, the Gulf Coast fisherman with tales as tall as his catch.
And after a fabulous remodeling, you can now sip on a Bushwacker at the bar or watch your kids play in the island’s biggest sandbox.
So, come by. It’s hard to miss that red and white lighthouse!
Where: 24621 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 974-1800
Shrimp Basket
Starting out in 1993, The Shrimp Basket quickly became the go-to spot for families to bond and strangers to become besties.
Aside from the friendly vibe, it’s where your seafood cravings meet their match.
Their Firecracker Fries will set your tastebuds ablaze!
It’s french fries smothered in queso, crowned with boom boom shrimp, cheddar jack, then drizzled with ranch.
And oh, the shrimp!
You can have them any way you like — fried, grilled, blackened, Cajuned, or steamed.
If you’re bringing a date, try the Low Country Boil For Two!
Where: 26651 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 200-4975
Gulf Shores Steamer
If you’re a bit of a purist, then Gulf Shores Steamer is your seafood sanctuary.
Rooted in family tradition since 1989, this rustic gem exudes homey vibes, boasting views of the scenic San Roc Cay Marina.
Here, you won’t find fried fare — oh no!
Their motto is a stern “NO FRIED,” and they mean business.
So, steam is the name of the game, with steamed red shrimp and snow crab legs leading the brigade.
Tuck into their “Bay Steamer” platter, heaping with shrimp, crab legs, oysters, and mussels, good enough for four.
The “Crab Delight” sandwich is a surefire crowd-pleaser, and their spicy Cajun Jambalaya hits the right notes.
The Gulf Shores Steamer is an ode to coastal living and hearty meals with loved ones!
Where: 27267 Perdido Beach Blvd #115, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 948-6344
Cotton’s Restaurant

If some of your companions prefer land animals, then Cotton’s Restaurant is the perfect compromise between surf and turf!
Since 1985, they’ve been dishing out drool-worthy delights.
Sample their “Catch of the Day” for the best taste of the Gulf’s offerings.
Don’t miss the Seared Tuna, gracefully adorned with a Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce. Yum!
Now, for the meat lovers: The Ribeye and Filet Mignon will make you wonder if you’ve reached steak nirvana.
Swing by and discover why they’ve snagged the ‘Best Steak in South Baldwin County’ title. 1
Where: 26009 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Call: (251) 981-9268
FAQs
What is the best seafood from the Gulf?
Oh, where to start!
The Gulf serves up some real winners like tuna, hogfish, amberjack, flounder, snapper, and grouper.
And let’s not forget the local stars: shrimp, oysters, crab, and clams.
Why is it called Orange Beach?
The name “Orange Beach” comes from the Satsuma oranges that were cultivated in the area in the late 19th century.
These oranges thrived for a while but were wiped out in the early 20th century by a hard freeze.
The name stuck around, though!
What is the seafood capital of Alabama?
It’s actually Bayou La Batre!
This charming town is where a boatload (pun intended) of the state’s fresh shrimp, crab, oysters, and fish come from.
Now, while Bayou La Batre is the source, Orange Beach is where you get to experience all that fresh seafood in style.
But really, Alabama, in general, has easy access to the fresh stuff!
Related Reading: 13+ SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS YOU MUST TRY IN MOBILE, ALABAMA – Click Here To Learn More
Conclusion
Alright, seafood lovers, let’s wrap this up.
Orange Beach is where you want to be if you got a hankering for some expertly prepared seafood.
And each restaurant on this list promises not just a meal but a voyage of flavors.
OB is calling, and these seafood havens are the lighthouses guiding your culinary ship.
Don’t take my word for it; anchor down at these spots and have your share of the ocean’s bounty!