Taste the flavors and cuisine of the Coastal Bend during your stay! Corpus Christi is home to fresh seafood, authentic taquerias, and trendy eateries that have something for everyone. Read on for your guide to dining destinations in the Gulf Coast Capital.

 

Seafood

WATER STREET OYSTER BAR

A classic Corpus Christi establishment, Water Street Oyster Bar offers visitors a front-row seat to the Gulf Coast Capital’s freshest seafood. The raw bar, sushi bar, and cocktail bar offer a wide array of Gulf seafood. Not sure where to start? Try ordering a dozen Gulf Coast oysters on the half shell, served up with lemon wedges, horseradish, and Tabasco.

THE BLUE CLOVE

There’s something new in the pan every day at The Blue Clove; Chef Tony loves the thrill of experimenting with fresh fusions and preparations. Try the Cajun Snapper, a flaky sautéed snapper piled high with buttery bay scallops and jumbo shrimp all topped with mushrooms, capers, and a creamy Cajun sauce. You really can’t order wrong at this seafood gem.

ANGRY MARLIN

Over at Angry Marlin, fresh and local ingredients are always a must. Their ever-evolving menu of seafood pairs Santa Fe flavors with a fusion of French and Italian cuisine. Not only is the menu filled with delicious options, they’ll also cook your catch of the day for you on the spot. Nothing says fresh seafood like catching and eating your meal all in the same day!

SNOOPY’S PIER

Situated right on the water, with unparalleled views of Laguna Madre, the iconic Snoopy’s Pier was founded by a long-time fisherman in 1980 and has gone on to become one of the area’s most beloved spots. If you’re looking for a quality plate of fresh seafood and a cold bottle of brew, with top-notch scenery to pair, Snoopy’s is your go-to.

 

COSTA SUR WOK & CEVICHE BAR

This island mainstay boasts the most delicious and Instagram-worthy ceviche on this side of the Gulf of Mexico. Owner and Chef Nick Mackrizz trained at Le Cordon Bleu and cooked for restaurants in Peru before bringing his passion for ceviche back home. The flair of classic Peruvian technique and South Texas flavors will have you captivated and leave you wanting more.

ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR & SEAFOOD GRILL

While the sushi menu is extensive and delectable, Island Time’s seafood options are as good as it gets. The Black Magic Grouper is perfectly named; inspired by Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic Seasonings, Island Time owner Romeo Galindo developed his Black Magic Grouper as a playful experiment … and instantly discovered an island favorite. However, you really can’t go wrong with anything on this menu.

SCUTTLEBUTT’S

Bacon-wrapped sea scallops, sizzling ahi tuna steak, honey-Sriracha-glazed salmon, and some of the best sushi around can all be found on Scuttlebutt’s menu. There is truly something for everyone here, even the pickiest of travel companions. Plus, their daily happy hour can’t be beat. Relax with live music daily and a glass (or two) of their signature punch as you wind down from a day at the beach.

 

American

PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY

Padre Island Burger Company is a necessity for those craving a classic burger and fry feast. Grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor, each of their burger options provides a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Owner Jason Johnson has crafted a variety of specialty burgers: The Famous Dr. Padre featuring a very special BBQ sauce, The Hangover burger, just right for …well, a hangover, and the Mr. Beckham, a bacon and cheese masterpiece.

KATZ21 STEAK & SPIRITS

Katz 21 takes you to the Southside of Corpus Christi for an elevated dining experience to spice up a romantic getaway in the Gulf Coast Capital. Katz helps set the fine-dining standards with its dry-aged prime beef, award-winning wine list, and three elegant dining rooms. Make sure to order the Tajin-rimmed cucumber martini! The spacious patio bar, rotating schedule of live music, and daily happy hour specials only add to this already fantastic eatery.

BLACK SHEEP BISTRO

Sunday brunch on the Island is made easy at Black Sheep Bistro. Bottomless mimosas and delicious bites make this the perfect brunch destination. Try the Fried Boneless Pork Chop served with a sunny side-up egg, red eye gravy, and garlic potato pearls. But it doesn’t stop at just brunch – this unique dining experience also serves up different high-end surf and turf options and includes The Barrel Wine and Tapas Bar, featuring an extensive wine, beer, and cocktail list.

B&J’S PIZZA

The beloved pizza sauce and dough recipes at this local staple have remained untouched since opening in 1987. B&J’s Pizza has created a haven for the perfect marriage: pizza and beer. Choose from two locations and enjoy some of the best pizza in town, along with one of their locally-brewed beers. This is truly a must-visit spot for any craft beer lover. (Insider tip: If you’re a garlic lover, The Jack’s Special – both a pizza and wing flavor – is a must-try.)

SALTY OAK BBQ

You can’t visit the Gulf Coast Capital without stopping at a finger-lickin’ good BBQ joint. Founders Travis and Rita Brem brought the classic version of Central Texas barbecue to Corpus Christi. Here you’ll find good ol’ “low and slow” smoked barbecue – seasoned with a simple rub and fired with post oak wood – and all the classic sides your heart desires.

 

Breakfast

HI-HO RESTAURANT

One of the most cherished and oldest taquerias in town, Hi-Ho is undoubtedly the place to go for breakfast tacos. It's also famous for being Selena's favorite place to eat in Corpus Christi.

HESTER'S CAFE

Combine quality ingredients and owner Hester Rodriguez’s natural love for baking and you get a pretty delicious outcome over at Hester’s Cafe. With two locations to choose from, Hester’s is the ideal breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot. House-brewed coffee, a variety of healthy breakfast options, salads and sandwiches, and fresh pastries await at this local favorite. Opt for the Lamar Park location if you’re looking for excellent outdoor seating.

 

Mexican

TACOBAR STREET

TacoBar Street is an infusion of the traditional taco, mixed with a splash of Asian influence. The street nachos, a signature dish and crowd favorite, have all the Mexican flavors we all know and love.

LA PLAYA BY THE BAY

If you’re looking for great views, live music, and delicious food, this bi-level Tex-Mex eatery & bar has you covered. It is a contemporary, colorful space with outdoor seating, complimentary chips and salsa, and great happy hour deals.

SONNY’S BARBACOA

This quaint joint serves up major flavor. Head to Sonny’s Barbacoa for the meaty, tangy, brothy, saucy, spicy cures for what ails ya! Their barbacoa is made from prime cuts of meat to assure the freshest and best-tasting tacos in town.