Gulf Shores, Alabama, has a lot to offer, including some of the best restaurants in the South.
When traveling, it’s always good to remember that you don’t have to trade in quality for affordability. You just have to do a little research.
Finding a cheap bite in Gulf Shores is as easy as continuing to read our handy list of affordable places to eat. We know there’ll be something for everyone on this list!
Let’s dig in!
The Gulf Shores Restaurant Scene
Gulf Shores is home to more than 200 restaurants. You can find almost any variety and flavor of food imaginable, including the renowned Gulf Coast seafood fare. The dining scene in Gulf Shores can be described as nothing short of delicious and diverse. Not only are there tons of food options, but you can also choose to dine waterfront at some places.
Plenty of spots in Gulf Shores can satisfy any culinary desire. Like most beach towns, the dining atmosphere is often casual and laid back, especially for lunch. The city has many fancy restaurants to consider for dinner. However, it also offers an abundance of affordable options.
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#1 Sea N Suds
Seas N Suds is a premier Gulf Shores restaurant located directly on the beach. This spot has been serving up Gulf Coast seafood and sunsets since 1975. The original owner, Gerald King, and two classmates first opened it in an old bait shop on a small pier.
In 1979, Hurricane Frederick destroyed the original structure. The restaurant they’re in today is the one that was rebuilt after the storm. They have a large outdoor deck and inside dining options as well.
Their menu is topped with tons of great seafood offerings that use generations-old recipes. These include crab claws, gumbo, and fried seafood dinners. You can also enjoy fresh or fried oysters and fish.
#2 The Cove Bar and Grill
Come for the hand-pattied burgers and tuna nachos, and stay for the live music! You can shoot some pool at the Cove Bar and Grill, have a drink, and get some grub. There’s even a Touchstone jukebox so you can direct the music, too. This is a place where you can have a drink and talk to a local.
Located in a Gulf Shores resort area, it offers various delicious foods, including house-made potato chips! The Cove Bar and Grill offers indoor and outdoor seating and has live music every Friday and Saturday evening.
This restaurant was opened by folks at Cotton’s Restaurant in Orange Beach, which has been in business for over 20 years.
#3 Crico’s Pizza and Subs
Crico’s Pizza and Subs has been a family-owned and operated staple in Gulf Shores since 1998. They offer a variety of Italian dishes, including hot and cold subs prepared with fresh meat and locally grown vegetables. As the name suggests, this Gulf Shores restaurant also offers traditional and specialty pizza.
If you eat before 3PM, there’s an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet that includes different pizzas, salads, and desserts. Crico’s Pizza and Subs offers dine-in and delivery options. Dog-friendly outdoor dining is available for those who prefer to eat outside with their four-legged friends.
Don’t forget dessert! Crico’s menu has a dessert pizza option that includes your choice of vanilla cream crumble or apple crumble.
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#4 Wacked Out Weiner
Wacked Out Weiner was named the number one hot dog joint in Alabama by MSN. They start by using Nathan’s all-beef hotdogs. They offer 30 hot dog toppings, including homemade chili, so you can enjoy the ultimate customized dog.
Everything on the menu, minus the t-shirts, is less than $7. This makes Wacked Out Weiner a number-one contender for the most affordable meal in Gulf Shores. Whether grabbing a quick bite on the way to the beach or grabbing a snack while you enjoy the town, this is a great choice.
Not in the mood for a dog? They offer loaded nachos, too! The Gulf Shores restaurant also has an online store with its signature hot dog seasoning, “Whacked Out Weiner Dust,” and other brand-related merchandise.
#5 Kitty’s Kafe
For authentic Southern-style county cooking fare, look no further than Kitty’s Kafe. Whether you crave a country-style breakfast or a home-cooked lunch plate, this place can fix you up. They have everything from pancakes and omelets to burgers and salads. Bringing the kids? Kitty’s has a kittens menu that would satisfy any child.
Their menu has many southern favorites, including fried green tomatoes and beef tips with rice. Their daily specials run at a very affordable price and come with your choice of meat and up to four sides. To top it off, they have dessert for less than $5, and it’s your choice between bread pudding with whiskey sauce or homemade cobbler. Both sound like winners!
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a full-service bar. They’re conveniently located inside an easily accessible shopping center in Gulf Shores.
Enjoy Exploring Gulf Shores Restaurants
With so many options, finding an inexpensive restaurant serving excellent food in Gulf Shores may be difficult without doing a little research first. You can’t go wrong in this beach town that offers everything from Southern-style country cooking to fresh seafood. But start with our five affordable restaurants and see where they take you!
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