Looking for mom & pop, non-chain restaurants in the Gulf Shores, AL area? I’ve got you covered. When I travel I loathe going out to eat to chain restaurants or local tourist traps. I want the authentic, mom & pop, local, one of a kind, historical, out of the way places. While spending January at the beach in Fort Morgan, I’ve stumbled upon some gems worthy of sharing. The next time you’re in the area just skip Lambert’s (OK, fine – go their once if you’ve never been). However, after you wait 2 hours for a table to get a roll thrown at your head, check that off your list and plan to go to one of my restaurant recommendations next.
THE GIFT HORSE ANTIQUES & RESTAURANT, Foley AL
Get a two-fer here if you love antiquing and great HOMEMADE southern food. Located in the downtown area of Foley you will find antique shops and this gem of a restaurant that offers southern food displayed on a 28′ long buffet. All homemade soups, salads, sides, entrees and desserts. Menu varies daily. Can also reserve a time for a traditional High Tea! The moment you enter the building you are transported to a different time with pine wood covering the soaring ceilings, sparkling chandeliers and stain glass windows. Don’t underestimate from the outside, this place can fit up to 400 guests! Definitely a MUST eat at if in the Gulf Shores or Orange Beach area. If you go on a Sunday or Monday and bring a church bulletin they will give you “buy one meal – get one free”! The Gift Horse Restaurant website HERE.
JESSE'S STEAKHOUSE, Magnolia Springs AL
A best kept secret of the South! A Magnolia Springs tradition for 75 years as the restaurant is located on a quiet corner in an old building built in 1922. Just driving up to the building you know it is going to be special. Great food and impeccable service. Known for their steak selection (although I ordered the fresh catch which was amazing). Check their hours and days of operation before heading that way. Reservations are recommended. Jesse’s Steakhouse website HERE.
THE WASH HOUSE RESTAURANT, Point Clear AL
Take a scenic drive to Fairhope, AL to watch the sunset over Mobile Bay. Make time to walk the downtown area and shop the cute boutiques before heading to the park and pier. Find a parking spot in the lot near the pier and bring wine to join the other people who fill up the parking lot doing the same! Once the sun sets head back to GS and on the way stop at The Wash House Restaurant for an elegant dinner. Don’t let the exterior fool you, this is a classy place. The Wash House Restaurant website HERE.
BIG MIKE'S STEAKHOUSE, Orange Beach AL
This one may be a cheat because it could be construed as a “chain” since the original BMS is in Thomasville, AL and they are franchising (6 locations now). However, absolutely worth a mention as it is one of my all time favorite steakhouse restaurants (only falls 2nd to a steakhouse in Orlando, FL). Voted best steakhouse in AL (I can’t argue with that). This super low key restaurant in Orange Beach serves up high end great tasting steaks that won’t disappoint. They do not take reservations so plan accordingly. Big Mike’s Steakhouse website HERE.
First time here, haha
The Gift Horse has been a favorite for 30 years!!!!
I’m so happy I stumbled upon it! Will def go back for years to come!