In last week’s post we highlighted 10 Things to Expect When Vacationing on the Gulf Coast.  Number seven on the list is the fact that every restaurant claims to have the best seafood in town.  The fact is you really can’t go wrong at any of the local seafood restaurants if you’re looking for fresh Gulf seafood, but some dishes stand out more than others.  Here are four local seafood dishes you must try on your next Gulf Shores and Orange Beach vacation.

Coast’s Crab Crusted Redfish

Located onsite at The Beach Club, the only thing that rivals the food at Coast is the beautiful Gulf front view from the restaurant’s Veranda.  Chef Brody Olive’s Crab Crusted Redfish is served with stone ground Parmesan cheese grits, garlic green beans and a lemon caper butter sauce.  This dish is a local favorite that’s sure to please your palate.

Fish River Grill 3’s OMG Shrimp Feast Po’boy

The name says it all.  The biggest Po’boy on the island is served overflowing with fried Gulf shrimp and topped with their signature crawfish sauce.  Don’t even bother trying to pick this thing up, you’re going to need a fork and knife for this bad boy.  It’s a Cajun twist on a South Alabama classic, and easily one of my favorite meals when I’m looking for some great seafood.

King Neptune’s Zydecco Penne

King Neptune’s used to be a well kept secret in Gulf Shores, but the secret is out now.  This small hole in the wall (I use that term affectionately) serves up the best seafood pasta on the island.  Crawfish tails, Andouille sausage, jumbo Gulf shrimp, Cajun vegetables and roasted garlic served with their homemade Creole cream sauce over Penne pasta.   If you’re craving more than just your typical fried shrimp, then give this dish a try.  You won’t be disappointed

Gulf Shores Steamer’s Bay Steamer

For the seafood lover that can’t make up their mind, this platter is overflowing with shrimp, crab legs, oysters and mussels.  One order is enough to feed four people.  If you’re looking for a healthy seafood option, then this is the place for you.  True to their name, the seafood served at Gulf Shores Steamer is steamed to perfection and served with corn, potatoes and cole slaw.