I don't know if it's the hot weather or the recent atrocity befalling the Gulf of Mexico or what, but lately I've found myself taking any and every excuse to make the trek down I-45 to visit our island neighbor to the south. Now, I'm not claiming to be a local who knows every great little undiscovered gem in town, but I have spent many a weekend pre- and post-hurricane in Galveston, and the following are my favorite places to grab a bite.
10. Fish Tales (2502 Seawall Blvd.)
Okay, no one is suggesting that Fish Tales should win a culinary originality award, but if you want straightforward seafood served with an icy piña colada on a great patio overlooking the water, this is the place to go. The Shrimp Scampi is flavorful and big enough to share, and the salads are a good option if you're wanting something lighter to make up for the fact that your beverage choice set you back a thousand calories or so.
9. Queen's Barbecue (3428 Ave. S)
Sometimes you want some barbecue on the beach, and if that happens to be the case, head to Queen's. It's cheap, it's casual and you can take all the kids. Order a big, smoky brisket platter with potato salad and baked beans or a giant baked potato stuffed with smoked turkey and all the fixin's. Both you and your wallet will leave full and happy.
8. The Spot (3204 Seawall Blvd.)
The Spot is another seawall favorite that works well when you want some comfort food in a typical island setting. The hamburgers, shrimp po-boys and French fries are all satisfying when you're feeling brave enough to consume that much bread in a swimsuit-friendly setting. Bonus points if you order the Zachburger with Fritos, chili and cheese. Plus there are good drink specials, like $3 Frozen 'ritas on Sundays, which is certainly not a bad way to end the week.
7. Cajun Greek (2226 61st St.)
With a name like Cajun Greek, you're know you are either going to be in for a great fusion or a terrible disaster. I'm going with the former, though it took many years to become brave enough to find out. Treat your palate to some unusual flavor combinations by noshing on spicy boiled shrimp and crab, refreshingly cool Greek salads, and homemade chocolate pecan cake. It's a bit off the beaten path, so the prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is friendly and casual.
6. Shrimp 'n' Stuff (3901 Ave. O) If you want really tasty, cheap and casual fare, head to Shrimp 'n' Stuff. They don't claim to do anything fancy, but what they do, they do right. Hand-battered jumbo shrimp are amazing, as are the deliciously addictive popcorn shrimp, fried oysters and catfish. There's boiled seafood, but their fried stuff is the best around. Get it with a bowl of their secret-recipe remoulade sauce, and you'll be in for a real treat. The po-boys aren't half bad, either.
5. Clary's (8509 Teichman Rd.)
When you think of Galveston, you think seafood, and that's exactly what Clary's does well. Although its spot right on the water on one of the first exits off I-45 made it a prime target for the hurricane, Clary's survived. They're only serving dinner right now because of construction, but it's worth waiting until 5:30 p.m. to eat some of the freshest shrimp and crab around. The fettuccini alfredo is amazing too.