Discover the Gulf Coast Through Its Cuisine: A Personal Guide by Meredith

As a real estate advisor and resident of Orange Beach, Alabama—home to some of the best seafood and fish in the world—my clients often ask me, “Where can I find the freshest seafood and fish?” or “What are the best restaurants in the area?” And sometimes, “Do you have any great recipes to share?”

Jesse's Restaurant Magnolia Springs Alabama Know for Steaks and Service

Well, in my spare time, I’m a total foodie! So, I’ve decided to share my personal favorite stores, restaurants, and recipes with you here, on my website, searchthegulf.com. I hope this section inspires you to dive deeper into the Gulf Coast lifestyle, savoring its culinary treasures and embracing the joy of fresh, local food.

Let this guide be your gateway to discovering the rich flavors of the Gulf Coast. Enjoy, and cheers to great food!

— Meredith

Meredith Amon Gulf Coast Lifestyle Food

Fishing in Baldwin County: Discovering the Gulf Coast’s Rich Waters

As someone who lives and works along the Gulf Coast, I know that Baldwin County is an angler’s paradise. With over 660 miles of shoreline and access to the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay, and countless rivers and inlets, this area offers incredible opportunities for fishing enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re casting a line from a pier, heading out on a charter boat, or wading through the shallows, there’s no shortage of exciting fish to catch here.

Let me guide you through the types of fish you can catch in Baldwin County, share my favorite fishing spots in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, and give you a few tips to make the most of your time on the water.

Types of Fish to…

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Pelican Grill: Orange Beach's Newest Gem

As someone who loves finding hidden culinary treasures along the Gulf Coast, I couldn’t resist checking out the buzz surrounding the new Pelican Grill in Orange Beach, Alabama. Nestled along the marina with views that will take your breath away, this seafood haven instantly became one of my favorite spots. Let me share my experience with you.

Pelican Grill Restaurant Orange Beach Alabama

A Hidden Gem Worth the Hunt

First things first: finding Pelican Grill was a bit of an adventure. Tucked away near the marina, it’s one of those places you’d drive right past if you didn’t know it was there. But let me tell you, once you step inside, it’s like discovering a slice of coastal paradise. The decor is elegant yet inviting, with soft lighting and…

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Search the Gulf's Top Ten Restaurants for Thanksgiving Dining in the Orange Beach Area

 Orange Beach Alabama Thanksgiving Restaurants Dining


Thanksgiving in the Orange Beach area offers a unique opportunity to enjoy incredible food, coastal vibes, and a stress-free holiday. Over the years, clients have shared some of their favorite spots to gather with family and friends. Here are my top picks for Thanksgiving dining in and around Orange Beach, complete with tips and insights from locals and visitors who’ve experienced these venues firsthand.


Spend your Thanksgiving soaking up the coastal charm of Orange Beach while enjoying a memorable meal at one of the area’s top restaurants. From elegant waterfront dining at Jesse's on the Bay to the laid-back vibes of The Gulf, this guide highlights ten…

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An Unforgettable Catch at Zeke’s Marina: Fresh Tuna and Wahoo on Display

Zeke's Landing Marina Fishing Boat Orange Beach Alabama

 

This past weekend at Zeke's Marina in Orange Beach, my friend and I had an experience that epitomizes the Gulf Coast lifestyle. As we relaxed over a delicious appetizer, the marina buzzed with excitement. A fishing boat had just returned from a successful day out on the Gulf, bringing in fresh tuna and wahoo, a sight that drew attention from everyone nearby.

One of the tuna catches was particularly impressive, weighing in at a solid 60 pounds. Watching the crew unload this massive fish and hearing stories of their time at sea was both fascinating and inspiring. You could feel the energy and pride as they shared their catch, and it was a reminder of the Gulf's bounty…

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A Perfect Night at Carmelo’s Italian Restaurant in Orange Beach, Alabama

If you’re ever in Orange Beach, Carmelo’s Italian Restaurant is the place to go for great food, fantastic drinks, and an inviting atmosphere. Last night, my friends and I had an amazing time there, starting off the evening with cocktails at the bar. We were welcomed by Nick and Chrissy, our fabulous bartenders, who crafted the perfect drinks to kick off the night. Their friendly service and great recommendations made our time at the bar truly enjoyable.

Carmelo's Restaurant Italian Orange Beach Alabama

Afterward, we moved to a table and enjoyed wine along with the star of the evening—the Italian Meat & Cheese Platter. This beautifully arranged dish featured cured meats, gourmet cheeses, fresh fruit, and hot crostini bread.…

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A Memorable Evening at Carmelo’s Italian Restaurant: Pollo Focaccia Delight


Last night, I had the pleasure of sharing an incredible meal with friends at one of Orange Beach’s hidden gems, Carmelo’s Italian Restaurant, located at 25747 Perdido Beach Blvd. While the ambiance was cozy and inviting as always, it was the standout dish—Pollo Focaccia—that stole the show.

This dish is a symphony of flavors, beginning with a perfectly cooked boneless chicken breast as its foundation. Topped with a savory slice of prosciutto and melted mozzarella, it was rich yet delicately balanced. The addition of olives and sun-dried tomatoes gave a burst of Mediterranean zest, while the fried artichokes added a delightful crispy texture. The entire dish was brought…

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Dinner on Ono Island: A Culinary Experience on the Gulf Coast

Ono Island Dinner Orange Beach, Alabama 

As a resident of Ono Island in Orange Beach, Alabama, I’m constantly inspired by the rich, fresh seafood available right here on the Gulf Coast. This evening, I’m embracing the coastal lifestyle with a dinner that truly celebrates the incredible flavors of the sea and land.

On the menu? Live lobster, succulent salmon stuffed with crab meat, a perfectly seared black Angus New York strip steak, and a side of fresh asparagus.

Where to Buy the Freshest Seafood To create a meal like this, you need the freshest ingredients, and I’m lucky to have access to some of the best seafood markets in the area. My favorite places to buy fresh seafood are Perdido Bay Seafood, located at 13506…

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