Where to Find the Best Seafood in Orange Beach, Alabama, and Ono Island
As a local expert on the Gulf Coast, one of my favorite parts of living in this beautiful area is the incredible access to fresh seafood. From the docks to the plate, the Gulf Coast offers an abundance of delicious fish and shellfish. Whether you’re cooking at home or dining out, here are my personal recommendations for where to buy and enjoy the best seafood near Orange Beach, Ono Island, and Perdido Key.
My Top Picks for Fresh Seafood
Perdido Bay Seafood
Nestled underneath the bridge in Perdido Key, Perdido Bay Seafood is a waterfront hidden gem. Family-owned and run, it offers a wide variety of fresh Gulf seafood. Whether it’s grouper, royal red shrimp, or oysters, they have it all. Their prepared seafood dishes make weeknight dinners effortless. Plus, it’s next door to one of my favorite restaurants, Fisherman's Corner.
Blalock’s Seafood
Located right in the heart of Orange Beach, Blalock’s is my go-to spot for fresh Gulf shrimp, snapper, and crabmeat. Their selection is always pristine, and they offer some of the best smoked tuna dip in town. If you’re hosting guests or just want a seafood feast, their steamed shrimp trays are unbeatable.
Billy’s Seafood
Billy’s in Bon Secour is a bit of a drive, but it’s worth it. This waterfront seafood market lets you see the boats bringing in the day’s catch, so you know you’re getting the freshest product. They’re known for their wild-caught shrimp and flounder, perfect for frying or grilling.
Joe Patti’s Seafood Market
A short trip to Pensacola will take you to the iconic Joe Patti’s, which feels more like an experience than just a seafood market. It’s a foodie’s dream with endless options of fresh fish, seafood salads, and prepared dishes. Don’t miss their sushi-grade tuna or the crab-stuffed mushrooms.
Five Fried Shrimp Recipes You’ll Love
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Classic Southern Fried Shrimp
Marinate peeled shrimp in buttermilk, coat in a mixture of seasoned cornmeal and flour, and fry until golden. Serve with a tangy remoulade. -
Coconut Fried Shrimp
Dip shrimp in egg wash, coat with a mixture of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs, and fry. Pair with a sweet chili dipping sauce. -
Tempura Fried Shrimp
Prepare a light tempura batter with ice-cold water and fry shrimp quickly for a crispy, airy coating. Serve with soy-based dipping sauce. -
Beer-Battered Shrimp
Whisk beer into a seasoned flour mixture for a thick, flavorful batter. Fry shrimp and enjoy with tartar or cocktail sauce. -
Shrimp Po’Boy
Fry seasoned shrimp, load them onto a toasted baguette with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a generous smear of spicy mayo.
Five Ways to Prepare Gulf Coast Seafood
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Grilled Grouper with Lemon Butter
Brush fresh grouper fillets with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until flaky. Top with a mixture of melted butter, lemon juice, and garlic. -
Baked Snapper with Herbs
Lay snapper fillets on a bed of lemon slices, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with parsley, thyme, and garlic. Bake until tender and aromatic. -
Blackened Redfish
Coat redfish fillets with Cajun seasoning and sear in a cast-iron skillet until charred. Serve with creamy grits and collard greens. -
Seafood Gumbo
Combine shrimp, crab, and andouille sausage in a rich, roux-based broth with okra and the holy trinity (onion, celery, bell pepper). Serve over rice. -
Pan-Seared Scallops
Season scallops with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot skillet with butter until golden brown. Deglaze the pan with white wine and a splash of cream for a quick sauce.
The Gulf Coast is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering fresh catches and culinary inspiration at every turn. Whether you’re shopping at family-run markets like Perdido Bay Seafood or indulging in a decadent meal at Fisherman’s Corner, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the best the Gulf has to offer.
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