The region's calling card. Everything from cash-only fried-flounder joints to art-gallery oyster bars. Average rating 4.35★ across 39,277 reviews.
1. Pirates Galley — Rockport
4.8★ (30 reviews) · $$ · 1.7 mi · Overall rank #25
Food truck with fried flounder and shrimp, big burgers, a well-liked gyro and generous portions; outdoor seating or carry-out.
1905 TX-35 BUS, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 413-9055 · Varies (food truck)
2. Coasters — Aransas Pass
4.7★ (426 reviews) · $$ · 9.0 mi · Overall rank #6
Off-the-beaten-path bayside grill with blackened fish, tuna carpaccio, risotto and a popular weekend brunch with $5 bloody marys and mimosas.
320 Huff St, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 226-1437 · Wed–Fri 11 AM–9 PM; Sat 10 AM–3 PM & 4–9 PM; Sun 10 AM–3 PM; closed Mon–Tue
3. LATITUDE 28°02' Restaurant and Art Gallery — Rockport
4.6★ (572 reviews) · $$ · 0.3 mi · Overall rank #11
Dinner-only seafood, steak and oyster bar inside a working art gallery; craft cocktails, escargot, crab cakes and creative oyster preparations.
105 N Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 727-9009 · Mon–Sat 4:30–9 PM; closed Sun
4. Shelleys — Rockport
4.6★ (156 reviews) · $$ · 0.5 mi · Overall rank #15
Small, family-run spot known for fried catfish, po'boys, crab balls and blackened mahi at good prices.
303 W Market St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0108 · Tue–Sat 11 AM–8 PM; closed Sun–Mon
5. Seafood & Spaghetti Works — Port Aransas
4.5★ (5,705 reviews) · $$ · 13.4 mi · Overall rank #16
Port A landmark in a distinctive building: fried oyster platters, crab cakes, mussel pasta and chicken parm — seafood and Italian under one roof with a deck.
910 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-5666 · Sun–Thu 11 AM–8:30 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–9 PM
6. LeStourgeon Seafood Company — Portland
4.5★ (185 reviews) · $$ · 18.9 mi · Overall rank #30
Family-owned newer seafood house with salmon bites, boudin balls, fried crawfish, spicy Baffin Bay Cajun noodles and a big menu including burgers and salads.
1010 Railroad Ave, Portland, TX 78374 · (361) 704-6267 · Tue–Sat 11 AM–9 PM; Sun 11 AM–8 PM; closed Mon
7. The Boiling Pot — Fulton
4.4★ (2,649 reviews) · $$ · 3.0 mi · Overall rank #34
Boiled-seafood-only institution: crawfish, crab, shrimp and sausage dumped on the table; loud, lively and fun for groups.
201 Fulton Beach Rd, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 729-6972 · Mon–Thu 4–9 PM; Fri–Sun 11 AM–9 PM
8. Tortuga's Saltwater Grill — Port Aransas
4.4★ (2,201 reviews) · n/a · 12.7 mi · Overall rank #35
Upscale-casual seafood and steaks with a lively bar, lobster bisque, seafood pasta and a weekend brunch (house bloody mary, benedicts).
429 N Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-2739 · Mon–Thu 3–9:30 PM; Fri–Sun 9 AM–2 PM & 3–9:30/10 PM
9. Blackbeard's Too — Ingleside
4.4★ (1,509 reviews) · $$ · 13.7 mi · Overall rank #36
Sister to the Corpus Christi original with a local, un-touristy feel — blackened fish and shrimp, chicken-fried mushrooms, burgers and frozen margaritas.
2753 W Main St, Ingleside, TX 78362 · (361) 776-0393 · Sun–Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–10 PM
10. Pier 77 of Fulton — Fulton
4.4★ (999 reviews) · $$ · 3.0 mi · Overall rank #38
Cash-only, BYOB family spot with huge portions — garlic-butter shrimp, fried flounder, gumbo and a solid ribeye.
3307 TX-35, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0132 · Tue–Thu 11 AM–8 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–8:30 PM; closed Sun–Mon
11. Old Fulton Seafood Cafe & Steakhouse — Fulton
4.4★ (636 reviews) · $$ · 2.6 mi · Overall rank #40
Strip-center exterior hides a polished dinner house: crab cakes, red drum Rockefeller, baked scallops, house carrot cake and the attached Cross-Eyed Martini cocktail bar.
2828 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 729-2233 · Tue–Sat 3–9 PM; closed Sun–Mon
12. Nemo's Seafood and Grill — Rockport
4.4★ (514 reviews) · $$ · 2.0 mi · Overall rank #42
Unassuming storefront with stuffed flounder, whole snapper, boiled shrimp and a signature pineapple coleslaw; friendly service and good value.
2307 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0500 · Wed–Mon 11 AM–9 PM; closed Tue
13. FINS Grill & Icehouse — Port Aransas
4.3★ (4,950 reviews) · $$ · 12.6 mi · Overall rank #61
Harborfront patio overlooking the marina (and pirate ship), crab-stuffed mahi, fish tacos, Texas craft beer and live music; expect long waits at dinner.
420 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-8646 · Sun–Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–9:30 PM
14. Mickey's Bar and Grill — Aransas Pass
4.3★ (1,854 reviews) · $$ · 10.7 mi · Overall rank #62
Open-air marina restaurant on Conn Brown Harbor — blackened grouper, crab hush puppies, fresh-cut fries and a breezy view of boats and birds.
430 Ransom Rd, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 758-1562 · Wed–Mon 11 AM–8/9 PM; closed Tue
15. Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill — Rockport
4.2★ (4,887 reviews) · $$ · 2.2 mi · Overall rank #74
Big waterfront patio at Cove Harbor with sunset and dolphin views, live music, dog-friendly seating and Gulf standards like pecan-crusted snapper and bacon-wrapped shrimp.
165 Cove Harbor N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 729-6000 · Sun–Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–11 PM
16. Shrimp It Up - Bar & Grill — Aransas Pass
4.2★ (379 reviews) · $$ · 9.7 mi · Overall rank #66
Order-at-the-bar seafood baskets, grilled snapper and gumbo with a pool table, TVs, full bar and an ice-cream counter; veteran discount.
120 S 8th St, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 226-0382 · Sun–Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–11 PM
17. The Palm Room Bar & Grill — Fulton
4.2★ (38 reviews) · $$ · 3.0 mi · Overall rank #53
Small hotel restaurant with a refreshed menu — tuna tartare, fish tacos, house Alfredo — and a chef who checks on tables; limited bar selection.
200 Fulton Beach Rd, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 790-8439 · Mon–Sat 4–9 PM; closed Sun
18. Virginia's On the Bay — Port Aransas
4.0★ (4,894 reviews) · $$ · 12.5 mi · Overall rank #87
Marina-side patio on the harbor with oysters, Cajun shrimp and fried platters; best for the open-air views and drinks, with portions on the smaller side.
815 Trout St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-4088 · Daily 11 AM–10 PM
19. Moondog Seaside Eatery — Fulton
4.0★ (2,531 reviews) · $$ · 3.1 mi · Overall rank #88
Laid-back open-air deck right on Fulton Harbor; mahi and shrimp tacos, peppered shrimp, margaritas and water-level seating.
100 N Casterline Dr, Fulton, TX 78358 · (361) 729-6200 · Wed–Mon 11 AM–9 PM; closed Tue
20. Castaway's Seafood & Grill — Port Aransas
4.0★ (2,498 reviews) · $$ · 12.8 mi · Overall rank #89
Easygoing coastal spot with Gulf oysters, gumbo, spicy crab boils, ceviche and chicken-fried steak; dog-friendly patio, gets packed after 6 PM.
337 N Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-5394 · Daily 11 AM–9 PM
21. Grumbles Seafood Co. — Port Aransas
4.0★ (1,664 reviews) · $$ · 12.5 mi · Overall rank #85
Counter-service seafood at Fisherman's Wharf with views of boats unloading their catch; crab-stuffed flounder, shrimp skewers, key lime pie.
850 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-1990 · Daily 11 AM–9 PM
Burgers, chicken-fried steak, a home-style buffet and one true fine-dining option. Average rating 4.36★ across 15,095 reviews.
1. Stout's at the Shore — Port Aransas (Cinnamon Shore)
4.7★ (406 reviews) · $$$ · 17.3 mi · Overall rank #7
Fine-dining splurge at Cinnamon Shore: filet, Chilean sea bass, blackened redfish, Rockefeller oysters and standout desserts; reservations strongly advised.
201 Social Cir, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 339-1993 · Sun–Thu 5–9 PM; Fri–Sat 5–10 PM
2. Butter Churn Restaurant — Aransas Pass
4.6★ (5,685 reviews) · $$ · 9.6 mi · Overall rank #9
Beloved home-style all-you-can-eat buffet with fried chicken, gumbo, vegetables and a big salad bar; friendly staff and a family crowd.
1275 Hwy 35 Bypass, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 758-2300 · Tue–Sat 11 AM–9 PM; Sun 11 AM–3 PM; closed Mon
3. Texas Pride Sports Bar and Grill — Aransas Pass
4.6★ (681 reviews) · $$ · 11.7 mi · Overall rank #10
Small-town sports bar with a big chicken-fried steak, burgers, sweet-potato fries, $6 happy-hour margaritas, lots of screens and occasional live music.
3792 FM 1069, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 226-1407 · Daily 11 AM–12 AM
4. Surf Shack — Port Aransas
4.6★ (58 reviews) · $$ · 12.9 mi · Overall rank #28
Small family-owned lunch spot with a varied menu, warm hospitality and fresh-air seating; pricing runs high for what it is.
206 W Ave A, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 416-1550 · Wed–Thu & Sun 11 AM–3 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–9 PM; closed Mon–Tue
5. Lelo's Island Bar — Port Aransas
4.5★ (1,634 reviews) · $$ · 12.9 mi · Overall rank #18
Port A's burger headquarters (the Jack-and-Coke burger is the signature), sriracha sweet-potato fries, steak-bite salad, island cocktails and a kids' play area.
212 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 309-5697 · Mon 11 AM–10 PM; Thu–Sat 11 AM–11 PM; Sun 11 AM–10 PM; closed Tue–Wed
6. Hideout 35 — Rockport
4.5★ (399 reviews) · $ · 4.1 mi · Overall rank #23
21-and-up bar and restaurant with surprisingly ambitious plates — clam chowder, redfish specials, calamari — plus pool tables and a smoker-friendly patio.
3813 Hwy 35 S, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-1033 · Daily 11 AM–2 AM
7. JAYROE'S TEXAS BISTRO — Rockport
4.4★ (70 reviews) · $$ · 1.8 mi · Overall rank #48
Newer Texas-themed bistro with a full bar, hearty sandwiches (muffuletta, French dip, Philly), a generous salad bar and house-made chips.
1941 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-8777 · Mon & Thu–Fri 10 AM–10 PM; Sat–Sun 9 AM–10 PM; closed Tue–Wed
8. Fulton's Irish Pub and Grill — Fulton
4.3★ (940 reviews) · $$ · 3.3 mi · Overall rank #58
Irish pub across from Fulton Harbor — pretzel with beer cheese, shepherd's pie, meatloaf, chicken pot pie and fish and chips, shaded patio with a water view.
301 N Fulton Beach Rd, Fulton, TX 78358 · (361) 450-5115 · Mon–Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri 11 AM–10 PM; Sat 11 AM–11 PM; Sun 11 AM–8 PM
9. The Roo Pub - Rockport — Rockport
4.3★ (68 reviews) · $$ · 0.1 mi · Overall rank #50
Australian-themed, non-smoking sports bar downtown with wall-to-wall TVs, wings, stuffed wraps and a kitchen open late; service can be slow.
501 S Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0140 · Daily 11 AM–2 AM
10. Texas A1 Steaks & Seafood — Portland
4.2★ (2,404 reviews) · $$ · 17.7 mi · Overall rank #71
Old-school steakhouse with rolls and cinnamon butter, well-cooked steaks, calf liver, quail and country-fried steak at reasonable prices; decor is dated.
407 Cedar Dr, Portland, TX 78374 · (361) 777-3663 · Sun–Thu 11 AM–10 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–11 PM
11. Twisted Apes Bar & Grill — Ingleside
4.2★ (443 reviews) · $$ · 13.5 mi · Overall rank #68
Dive bar with frosty bottles, excellent wings and cheeseburgers, pool inside, horseshoes and a giant outdoor TV, live bands and karaoke.
2627 TX-361, Ingleside, TX 78362 · (361) 238-5154 · Mon–Wed 3 PM–12 AM; Thu 11 AM–2 AM; Fri 3 PM–2 AM; Sat 11 AM–2 AM; Sun 11 AM–12 AM
12. Cheryl's Restaurant — Fulton
4.2★ (364 reviews) · $$ · 3.0 mi · Overall rank #67
Twinkle-lit, vintage-feel dinner house: shrimp and grits, bacon-wrapped dates, fried green tomatoes, steaks and quail, plus a Sunday brunch.
112 Fulton Beach Rd, Fulton, TX 78358 · (361) 790-9626 · Wed–Sat 5–9 PM; Sun 10 AM–1 PM; closed Mon–Tue
13. The G.O.A.T. Sports Grill — Ingleside
4.2★ (316 reviews) · $$ · 13.8 mi · Overall rank #65
Family-friendly sports bar with pool tables, a jukebox, house-made fried pickles, wings, loaded fries and pizza; kids run free in the dining room.
2769 Ave B, Ingleside, TX 78362 · (361) 238-2074 · Daily 10 AM–12:30 AM (Sat to 1:30 AM)
14. Yarbaritas Sip & Swing — Rockport
4.1★ (995 reviews) · $ · 1.4 mi · Overall rank #77
Whimsical waterfront spot where you sit on swings and hammocks; burgers, fried shrimp and fish baskets, upstairs deck with bay views. Casual, plastic-ware service.
1329 Broadway St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-8077 · Sun–Wed 9 AM–8 PM; Thu–Sat 9 AM–9 PM
15. BierHaus Port Aransas — Port Aransas
4.0★ (632 reviews) · $$ · 13.5 mi · Overall rank #83
Beer-garden vibe with separate food and drink lines, double-patty burgers, Nashville hot chicken, lamb burgers and prickly-pear margaritas; dog-friendly.
522 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 339-1041 · Sun–Thu 11 AM–12 AM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–1 AM
The deepest bench in the area, with many early-opening taquerías for breakfast tacos. Average rating 4.25★ across 20,030 reviews.
1. La Pasadita — Ingleside
4.9★ (20 reviews) · $ · 14.0 mi · Overall rank #29
Tiny taquería opening at 4 AM with fresh, made-to-order breakfast tacos, chicharrones, queso and salsa at about $3 a taco; small review count.
2621 S Main St, Ingleside, TX 78362 · (361) 226-2788 · Mon–Sat 4 AM–8 PM; Sun 4 AM–2 PM
2. Hacienda Grill — Ingleside
4.5★ (51 reviews) · $ · 13.1 mi · Overall rank #32
Fresh, fast Mexican with oversized quesabirria tacos, carne guisada, enchilada plates, a drink selection and catering; has a drive-thru for pickups.
3083 N Main St, Ingleside, TX 78362 · (361) 238-4090 · Mon–Wed 5 AM–9 PM; Thu–Sat 5 AM–10 PM; Sun 5 AM–3 PM
3. La Playa Mexican Grille — Port Aransas
4.4★ (970 reviews) · $$ · 12.9 mi · Overall rank #39
Cash-only island institution with a clipboard waitlist (sign up at 3:45 PM); crab enchiladas, tender beef fajitas and black drum; no reservations.
222 Beach St #5312, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-0022 · Tue–Sat 5–10 PM; closed Sun–Mon
4. La Tequila Portland — Portland
4.4★ (177 reviews) · $$ · 18.1 mi · Overall rank #44
Roomy restaurant with a big bar, deeply flavored salsas, al pastor tacos, norteña plates, homemade tortillas and strong margaritas; breakfast served too.
1702 US-181 A-6, Portland, TX 78374 · (361) 413-0159 · Tue–Thu 7 AM–10 PM; Fri–Sat 7 AM–11 PM; Sun 8 AM–10 PM; closed Mon
5. Mini Vallarta — Aransas Pass
4.4★ (87 reviews) · $ · 9.7 mi · Overall rank #47
Humble, friendly spot with homemade tortillas, carnitas, chalupas, migas and chilaquiles at low prices; breakfast is a strength.
939 W Wheeler Ave, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 387-9955 · Mon–Tue 6 AM–3 PM; Wed–Sat 6 AM–9 PM; Sun 7 AM–3 PM
6. Taqueria Hacienda del Pueblo — Aransas Pass
4.3★ (417 reviews) · $$ · 9.8 mi · Overall rank #54
Taquería-plus-grocery serving quesabirria plates, street tacos and charro beans from 5 AM; watch for add-on charges on burritos.
1842 W Wheeler Ave, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 226-0350 · Mon–Sat 5 AM–9 PM; Sun 6 AM–9 PM
7. Estrada's Mexican Steak House — Rockport
4.3★ (113 reviews) · $$ · 1.2 mi · Overall rank #52
Mexican steakhouse with 16-oz ribeyes, beef fajita nachos, handmade-tortilla mini tacos, chicharrón and pan dulce; sides can be hit or miss.
701 W Corpus Christi St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0392 · Wed–Thu & Sun 8 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 8 AM–10 PM; closed Mon–Tue
8. Restaurant San Juan — Port Aransas
4.2★ (4,500 reviews) · $ · 12.9 mi · Overall rank #75
Port A's high-volume Mexican standby with a picture menu, breakfast tacos, tortas, shrimp enchiladas, strong margaritas and fast service.
410 Cut-Off Rd, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-6521 · Daily 6 AM–9:45 PM (Sun to 9:15 PM)
9. Los Comales — Rockport
4.2★ (1,917 reviews) · $ · 0.4 mi · Overall rank #72
Popular Rockport Tex-Mex with attentive service, chimichangas and enormous fajitas-for-two; reviews split on seasoning.
431 TX-35 BUS, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 729-3952 · Wed–Sun 11 AM–9 PM; closed Mon–Tue
10. Pep's Mexican Steakhouse — Portland
4.2★ (1,518 reviews) · $$ · 18.0 mi · Overall rank #73
Attractive Mexican steakhouse known for ribeye quesadillas and charro beans; food earns praise, service consistency less so.
1807 US-181, Portland, TX 78374 · (361) 643-1531 · Mon–Sat 11 AM–10 PM; Sun 11 AM–9 PM
11. Taqueria Guadalajara — Aransas Pass
4.2★ (990 reviews) · $ · 10.0 mi · Overall rank #69
Small, homey Tex-Mex — cheese enchiladas with carne guisada, aguas frescas, low prices — though cleanliness and service draw complaints.
525 S Commercial St, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 758-0222 · Daily 5 AM–10 PM
12. San Juan Restaurant and Cantina — Aransas Pass
4.2★ (948 reviews) · $ · 10.2 mi · Overall rank #70
Blue-painted spot near the bypass and Walmart with cheap breakfast tacos, a Texas plate (carne guisada + enchiladas) and good verde salsa.
4696 FM 1069, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 758-3335 · Mon–Sat 5:30 AM–9 PM; Sun 7 AM–3 PM
13. Vibe Taco — Port Aransas
4.2★ (93 reviews) · $$ · 12.7 mi · Overall rank #63
Taco window inside the Sip Yard complex — big mahi and brisket tacos, brisket elote, queso and watermelon agua fresca; eat at the Sip Yard bar levels.
123 W Cotter Ave #5, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · Tue–Thu & Sun 11 AM–10 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–11 PM; closed Mon
14. Cancun Grill & Cantina — Port Aransas
4.1★ (1,565 reviews) · $ · 13.5 mi · Overall rank #80
Lively, clean cantina with chilaquiles, breakfast plates and a fun atmosphere; a solid alternative when San Juan is slammed.
1023 TX-361 E, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-5596 · Daily 6 AM–10 PM
15. Taqueria Puerto Vallarta — Rockport
4.1★ (1,386 reviews) · $ · 2.8 mi · Overall rank #81
Early-opening taquería in Fulton for chorizo-and-egg and nopales tacos, menudo and chicharrón; two salsas, quick even when busy.
3002 Business Hwy 35 N, Lot A, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 790-7221 · Mon–Sat 6 AM–9 PM; Sun 7 AM–2:30 PM
16. San Juan Restaurant Bar & Grill — Aransas Pass
4.1★ (1,348 reviews) · $ · 10.4 mi · Overall rank #82
Inexpensive, early-opening Mexican near the harbor — shrimp enchiladas verde, menudo, barbacoa tacos and breakfast; pricing reportedly inconsistent.
922 S Commercial St, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 226-1011 · Mon–Sat 5 AM–10 PM; Sun 7 AM–3 PM
17. Jalisco Restaurant — Rockport
4.1★ (971 reviews) · $$ · 1.6 mi · Overall rank #78
Breakfast-through-dinner Mexican with quesabirria plates, migas and huevos rancheros; large portions at fair prices, service can vanish mid-meal.
1701 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0011 · Mon–Sat 7 AM–9 PM; Sun 7 AM–2 PM
18. La Tequila Jalisco — Rockport
4.0★ (1,600 reviews) · $ · 2.1 mi · Overall rank #86
Big Tex-Mex dining room with bean dip, tostadas, margaritas and complimentary birthday tres leches; service is the standout more than the food.
2405 Hwy 35 N Bypass, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 727-9857 · Sun–Thu 8 AM–10 PM; Fri–Sat 8 AM–11 PM
19. La Arandina Cocina & Cantina — Rockport
4.0★ (1,359 reviews) · $ · 0.7 mi · Overall rank #84
Tex-Mex with a sports-bar side: spicy fajitas, molcajete, bean dip with white queso and well-made mango margaritas; breakfast served from 9 AM.
609 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 727-9151 · Sun–Thu 9 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 9 AM–10 PM
Two standout independent pizzerias in Aransas Pass plus sit-down Italian in Port Aransas and Fulton. Average rating 4.47★ across 7,145 reviews.
1. Coastal Oven — Aransas Pass
4.8★ (166 reviews) · $ · 9.7 mi · Overall rank #8
Made-to-order pizzeria in the old Pizza Hut building — homemade dough, Chicago-style deep dish (order ahead), hot-honey wings, calzones and smash burgers; owner-run.
1119 W Wheeler Ave, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 758-1129 · Tue–Sat 11 AM–9 PM; Sun 11 AM–5 PM; closed Mon
2. Commercial Street Icehouse — Aransas Pass
4.6★ (54 reviews) · $$ · 9.9 mi · Overall rank #31
Downtown icehouse next to the Rialto Theater with a thin-crust pizza and salad buffet, boiled shrimp and crawfish, nightly specials, drink deals and live music.
337 S Commercial St, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 205-3981 · Daily 11 AM–11:30 PM
3. Port A Pizzeria — Port Aransas
4.5★ (3,762 reviews) · $ · 13.4 mi · Overall rank #17
Fast, clean pizza-and-calzone buffet with soft-serve ice cream that keeps hungry families fed even during spring break; delivery available.
407 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-5226 · Daily 11 AM–10 PM
4. Venetian Hot Plate — Port Aransas
4.5★ (615 reviews) · $$ · 12.9 mi · Overall rank #22
Cozy, romantic Italian dinner spot: lasagna, bolognese, veal piccata, garlic bread and a death-by-chocolate cake; generous wine pours, reservations recommended.
232 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-7617 · Tue–Sat 5–9 PM; closed Sun–Mon
5. Panjo's Pizza & Pasta — Rockport
4.4★ (1,478 reviews) · $ · 2.6 mi · Overall rank #37
Longtime Rockport favorite under new ownership: crispy homemade-dough pizza, spaghetti and a new portobello ravioli in marsala cream; family atmosphere.
2744 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 729-1411 · Mon–Thu 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–9:30 PM; closed Sun
6. Dylan's Pizzeria — Port Aransas (Cinnamon Shore)
4.4★ (604 reviews) · $$ · 17.3 mi · Overall rank #41
Bright Cinnamon Shore pizzeria with build-your-own pies topped with fresh arugula, garlic flatbread, Greek salad, lemon-herb wings and quick takeout.
128 Market St Ste D, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 416-1844 · Mon & Wed–Fri 4–9 PM; Sat–Sun 12–9 PM; closed Tue
7. Bellino's Italian Restaurant — Rockport
4.3★ (411 reviews) · $$ · 2.6 mi · Overall rank #55
Quaint weekend-only Italian on Fulton Beach Road with a team-style waitstaff, wine list and gluten-free options; a break from fried seafood.
523 Fulton Beach Rd, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 729-9003 · Fri–Sat 4:30–9:30 PM; Sun–Mon 4:30–9 PM; closed Tue–Thu
8. NY Joe's Italian Restaurant — Gregory
4.3★ (55 reviews) · $$ · 16.3 mi · Overall rank #49
Northeast-style mom-and-pop Italian on US-181 with plate-sized XL pizza slices, meatball subs, Alfredo and a 2-for-$25 pizza deal.
US-181, Gregory, TX 78359 · (361) 424-2964 · Mon–Sat 10:30 AM–10 PM; Sun 11 AM–9 PM
Small, family-run smokehouses and trucks; most are open only a few days a week. Average rating 4.70★ across 1,641 reviews.
1. Da Smoke Shack — Aransas Pass
5.0★ (5 reviews) · n/a · 10.0 mi · Overall rank #33
Saturday-only BBQ shack with brisket, ribs, a brisket-jalapeño egg roll and a much-praised banana pudding; only a handful of reviews so far.
2285 W Wheeler Ave, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 523-3263 · Sat 11:30 AM–6 PM only
2. Stevie Lew's BBQ Kitchen — Rockport (Lamar)
4.8★ (629 reviews) · $$ · 5.9 mi · Overall rank #1
Three-days-a-week family smokehouse north of town — melt-in-your-mouth brisket, jambalaya, potato salad, peach cobbler and giant cinnamon rolls (pre-order).
5340 TX-35, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 727-0002 · Thu–Sat 10 AM–3 PM; closed Sun–Wed
3. Jolly Roger's Galley — Aransas Pass (Hwy 188)
4.8★ (66 reviews) · $$ · 5.4 mi · Overall rank #13
Tucked inside an RV park between Rockport and Aransas Pass; everything homemade — brisket and pulled-pork sandwiches, brisket nachos, burgers on sweet buns, cookies.
441 TX-188, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 510-6239 · Wed–Sat 11 AM–6 PM; closed Sun–Tue
4. Boots BBQ and Catering — Aransas Pass
4.6★ (84 reviews) · $$ · 9.7 mi · Overall rank #24
Easy-to-miss food truck run by a devoted pitmaster; well-marbled brisket, tender ribs, loaded potatoes and buttermilk and key-lime pies.
1136 W Wheeler Ave, Aransas Pass, TX 78336 · (361) 704-2652 · Wed–Sat 11 AM–7 PM; closed Sun–Tue
5. Mac's Pit Barbecue & Catering — Rockport
4.3★ (857 reviews) · $$ · 0.0 mi · Overall rank #59
Long-running downtown counter-service barbecue with smoked turkey, brisket, potato salad and pinto beans; consistency varies by visit.
815 E Market St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 729-9388 · Mon–Sat 11 AM–8 PM; closed Sun
Three options, led by a weekday-only Vietnamese-Chinese favorite in Rockport. Average rating 4.50★ across 1,355 reviews.
1. Ngo's Dine-In — Rockport
4.7★ (881 reviews) · $$ · 2.6 mi · Overall rank #5
Weekday-only Vietnamese-Chinese favorite — shrimp lo mein, udon, grilled-pork bánh mì, rangoons and boba — with enormous portions and fast service.
2841 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-1865 · Mon–Fri 11 AM–8:15 PM; closed Sat–Sun
2. The Rice Hat — Portland
4.5★ (331 reviews) · $$ · 18.1 mi · Overall rank #26
From the owners of Pho Life: shaking beef, wonton soup, ramen, udon, pork belly and General Tso's served family-style in very large portions.
1702 US-181 Ste A9, Portland, TX 78374 · (361) 977-2075 · Mon–Sat 11 AM–8:30 PM; closed Sun
3. HU DAT — Fulton
4.3★ (143 reviews) · $ · 3.1 mi · Overall rank #51
Asian fusion (pho, orange chicken, lo mein, a vegetarian section) joined by a hallway to the Benchwarmers sports bar; loud, cheap and quick.
106 Fulton Beach Rd, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 790-5413 · Tue–Thu 11 AM–8 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–8:30 PM; closed Sun–Mon
Daytime-only spots, all in Rockport proper. Average rating 4.53★ across 4,083 reviews.
1. Our Family Kitchen — Rockport
4.7★ (1,677 reviews) · $$ · 0.4 mi · Overall rank #3
Down-home breakfast and lunch — blueberry pancakes, cheese grits, liver and onions, chicken-fried steak with cream gravy; expect a line on weekends.
324 TX-35 BUS, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 727-1111 · Tue–Sat 7 AM–2 PM; closed Sun–Mon
2. Fresco Eats — Rockport
4.6★ (161 reviews) · $ · 0.7 mi · Overall rank #14
Cozy counter-service café with oversized breakfast burritos, avocado toast, chilaquiles, fresh juices, smoothies and aguas frescas; fast and family-owned.
410 W Market St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0673 · Mon–Sat 7 AM–2 PM; Sun 8 AM–2 PM
3. JJ's Cafe — Rockport
4.5★ (1,149 reviews) · $$ · 1.9 mi · Overall rank #19
Warm, quote-covered breakfast-and-lunch café with a salad bar, shrimp and grits, meatloaf, onion straws and a pet-friendly patio; 40-minute waits on Sunday mornings.
1820 Colorado St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-1680 · Mon & Thu–Sun 7 AM–2 PM; closed Tue–Wed
4. Bakery Cafe Rockport — Rockport
4.3★ (1,096 reviews) · $$ · 0.5 mi · Overall rank #57
Classic small-town breakfast café — skillets, biscuits, chicken-fried steak, fried fish and shrimp — with generous portions and tight booth seating.
205 Business Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-5029 · Mon & Wed–Sun 7 AM–2 PM; closed Tue
Craft beer, a cocktail lounge, dive bars with live music, and a winery/brewery combo. Average rating 4.44★ across 4,952 reviews.
1. Bay Area Brewing Company — Rockport
4.9★ (204 reviews) · n/a · 0.8 mi · Overall rank #2
Veteran-owned craft brewery with rotating taps, craft root beer, daiquiris, pizza, a backyard playground and Spur the resident rooster; very relaxed.
525 W Market St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 230-1929 · Mon–Wed & Sun 12–6 PM; Thu–Sat 12–9 PM
2. Whiskey Palm — Rockport
4.8★ (234 reviews) · $$ · 0.2 mi · Overall rank #4
Classy-but-relaxed cocktail lounge downtown — $15 martini flights, well-made old fashioneds, top-shelf bourbon, live music and attentive bartenders.
415 S Austin St (Austin Station Mall), Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 312-8655 · Mon–Thu 5 PM–12 AM; Fri 5 PM–2 AM; Sat 12 PM–2 AM; Sun 3 PM–12 AM
3. Shorty's Place — Port Aransas
4.6★ (488 reviews) · $ · 12.9 mi · Overall rank #12
Port A's legendary dive: walls and ceiling covered in memorabilia, cold cheap beer, pool tables, live bands and a strong local following since the 1940s.
101 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-8224 · Mon–Sat 10 AM–2 AM; Sun 12 PM–2 AM
4. Boatmen's Bar and Marina — Rockport
4.6★ (91 reviews) · $ · 2.3 mi · Overall rank #21
Laid-back marina bar at Cove Harbor next to Paradise Key; cheap drinks and bartenders regulars rave about.
140 Cove Harbor N, Rockport, TX 78382 · Daily 12 PM–12 AM
5. Rock Bottom Park & Pub — Rockport
4.5★ (767 reviews) · $ · 0.1 mi · Overall rank #20
Downtown sports bar and live-music venue with a friendly crowd, cold drinks and DJ nights.
507 S Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 450-0345 · Mon–Sat 11 AM–2 AM; Sun 12 PM–2 AM
6. Winery on the Bay / Dog'Gone Brewery — Rockport
4.5★ (289 reviews) · n/a · 0.2 mi · Overall rank #27
Winery and brewery under one roof — affordable wine and beer flights with a souvenir glass, growler fills, wine club, mahjong and bingo nights, dogs welcome.
1007 E North St, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 727-9888 · Wed–Mon 12–7 PM; closed Tue
7. Lulu's Landing Bar — Fulton
4.4★ (207 reviews) · $$ · 3.0 mi · Overall rank #43
Beachy live-music venue with roll-up doors, a new stage, pool, good wings and a Cajun food truck in the lot; bands Thursday–Saturday.
115 Fulton Beach Rd, Fulton, TX 78358 · (361) 450-1952 · Mon–Fri 11 AM–12 AM; Sat 11 AM–1 AM; Sun 12 PM–12 AM
8. Texas Red's Riviera — Port Aransas
4.4★ (117 reviews) · $$ · 13.2 mi · Overall rank #45
Low-key locals' hangout with darts, pool, shuffleboard, cheap happy hour and The Food Hut next door for eats.
315 S Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 416-1235 · Mon–Sat 11 AM–2 AM; Sun 12 PM–2 AM
9. Beach Bums — Port Aransas
4.4★ (96 reviews) · $$ · 12.7 mi · Overall rank #46
Small locals' sports bar with free pool, darts, foosball, karaoke, spicy-pickle margaritas and signature shots.
232 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 935-3010 · Daily 12 PM–2 AM
10. The Sugar Shack — Fulton
4.3★ (724 reviews) · $ · 3.1 mi · Overall rank #60
Waterside dive with a big patio, cover bands, pool tables, multiple bars, TVs and low prices; unassuming front porch, rowdy fun inside.
106 Fulton Beach Rd, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 790-9000 · Daily 11 AM–2 AM
11. 361 Bar — Port Aransas
4.3★ (405 reviews) · $ · 13.5 mi · Overall rank #56
Old-school smoking-allowed bar with two pool tables, darts, jukebox, gaming machines, pet-friendly policy and bartenders who learn your name.
1023 TX-361 A, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-5637 · Mon–Sat 10 AM–2 AM; Sun 12 PM–2 AM
12. The Big Easy (Rockport) — Rockport
4.2★ (166 reviews) · $$ · 4.2 mi · Overall rank #64
South-side bar next to Hideout 35 with a back patio and fire pit, karaoke, live bands and an attached game room (skee-ball, pinball, gaming machines); now serves food.
3905 TX-35 BUS Ste C, Rockport, TX 78382 · (361) 556-5200 · Daily 10 AM–2 AM
13. Bernie's Beach House — Port Aransas
4.1★ (862 reviews) · $ · 12.6 mi · Overall rank #79
Smoky, busy locals' dive with a great happy hour, a $7.75 fried-bologna sandwich on Texas toast and window-order food; expect a wait at the bar.
730 Trout St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 749-4440 · Mon–Sat 11 AM–2 AM; Sun 12 PM–2 AM
14. Sip Yard Port Aransas — Port Aransas
4.1★ (302 reviews) · $$ · 12.7 mi · Overall rank #76
Three-level open-air bar with the best channel views on the island, a giant screen, weekend bands and a ring of food windows (tacos, BBQ, pizza, Cajun, coffee).
123 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 · (361) 267-4917 · Mon–Tue 2–10 PM; Wed–Thu & Sun 11 AM–10 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–12 AM