Gaido's

Gaido's has been serving Galveston locals and tourists alike their seafood for over a century, making it one of the oldest continually operating restaurants on the island. Reservations are strongly encouraged at night, as the classic, carpeted dining rooms fill up quickly and will leave you waiting for at least an hour. Expect old-fashioned service to go with the elegant atmosphere, but – since it's the island – you won't be turned away for wearing shorts and flip-flops. Try the soft-shell crabs in season or the parmesan-crusted red snapper year-round, and don't forget a bowl of Watkins' Bisque: the creamy lobster soup with sherry is an essential part of the Gaido's experience.