June 8, 2020
This summer has already been a big one for Galveston. Everyone is itching to travel, and they are going to go somewhere they can drive to. Hello Galveston Island! If you’re coming to the island this summer you’ll need to eat lunch at one point. Let me tell you about a few good spots, including great seafood options.
I don’t want to give away too many of our low-key local spots, but if you’re coming to Galveston I feel like you need to experience something more authentic than a big chain restaurant. I traveled to Galveston as a kid with my family, but I didn’t know about all of the amazing food on the island until I started dating Milton. This is not an exhaustive list (because there are so many amazing restaurants on the island) and is in no particular order. I have included the address and linked menus for each restaurant!
If you’re planning on cooking lunch while you’re on the island you should DEFINITELY get your fresh seafood from Sampson and Son’s! Follow us on Instagram. 20 Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550
Coastal Grill
1827 Strand Street
Coastal grill is located at the very east end of the strand. It doesn’t have views of the water, but the interior is very clean and has tons of seating. This is your spot for great seafood at a very reasonable price. See the menu here. We have been dining here since Caroline was born, and my in-laws go at least five times a week. No joke. My picks: Tuna Tower for an appetizer, and the jumbo fried shrimp as an entree. Milton loves the tacos and the gyro. Everything is worth a try, though. Quick info: street parking with a small parking lot, no changing table, booster chair for kids, indoor and patio seating, full bar. Follow them on Instagram.
Float Pool Bar
2828 Seawall Blvd
This is for the party people…If you don’t have kids and you’re looking for more of a party scene, this is your spot. For the longest time I did not know they served good lunch here. I love the burritos and the Tacos Diablos. The messy nachos are also very good. Float is located on the Seawall just a few blocks from Pleasure Pier. It has a great view of the beach, and an upper deck that is perfect for watching the waves (or the beach goers if you’re a people watcher like myself). Yes, there is a pool at this bar. Yes, they have a bikini contest once a month. Have I ever been in it? The pool: Yes. The bikini contest: No. Quick info: very small parking lot, street parking, indoor/outdoor seating, full bar. Follow them on Instagram.
Gypsy Joynt
2711 Market Street
The best way to describe Gypsy Joynt is eclectic. The decor and the menu is eclectic in the best way possible! The funky burger options are endless, the pizza is so satisfying, and the desserts are out of this world. Seating is first come first serve. Quick info: Parking lot and street parking, indoor seating, no changing table in restroom, high chairs available, beer and wine only. Follow them on Instagram.
Sunflower Bakery & Cafe
512 14th Street
Sunflower Bakery is located on the east side of the island very close to UTMB. This is a pretty popular spot that fills up quick, so I highly suggest going for an early lunch or brunch. They typically have a brunch menu that will not disappoint (served until 3 pm every day). Check out their lunch menu here. Honestly, none of the food will disappoint! Most often I order the chicken salad sandwich with tomato basil soup. Y’all, I am NOT a soup girl and I drool over their tomato basil. That is saying something. Quick info: small parking lot & street parking, indoor and outdoor seating, beer and wine only. Follow them on Instagram.
Gumbo Diner
3602 Seawall Blvd
Gumbo Diner is located on Seawall and 35th street (very close to a famous chain restaurant, but this place has MUCH BETTER seafood). Fuel up after a fun morning on the beach here. Check out their menu! Their food is hardy with a home-cooked feel. Quick notes: small parking lot, high chairs, beer and wine only, indoor seating only. Follow them on Instagram.
Maceo Spice & Import
2706 Market Street
Maceo’s is an import shop and cafe located in the up and coming West Market, or “WeMa”, area of Galveston. You can find specialty spices and herbs, pasta, meats and cheeses, coffee and tea, and more. Check out their daily lunch menu here. The indoor seating area and menu are on the smaller side, which makes for a more quaint experience. They have a great outdoor space with seating and an awesome mural perfect for insta photos. On Sundays they have beignets, coffee, and muffalettas from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Quick info: indoor and outdoor seating, street parking. Last time we went Caroline was tiny so we didn’t need a high chair…so I cannot promise that they have one. Follow them on Instagram
Kritikos Grill
4908 Seawall Blvd
Kritikos Grill is a family-owned Greek restaurant located on the seawall near Fort Crockett Park. Everything on the menu is so fresh. I could easily eat my weight in hummus and pita here. The Greek salad comes with their homemade dressing that hits the spot. Quick info: parking lot, high chairs, beer and wine only, some outdoor seating. Like them on Facebook.
ShyKatZ Cafe Deli & Bakery
1528 Ave L
It has “kat” in the name so you know I’m going to be all for it. ShyKatZ is located on the east end of the island. They have amazing food and decadent desserts. They serve breakfast all day. Here is their menu. Quick info: no alcohol, kid friendly (but I’m not sure about high chairs, probably yes), some outdoor seating. Follow them on Instagram.
Looking for a place to stay on the island?
Some good friends of mine have a couple of Airbnb rentals just one block from the beach. Check out their availability here and here.
