Mobile, Alabama, is not just a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural festivities, but also a hidden gem for food enthusiasts. The city offers a diverse culinary scene that ranges from traditional Southern comfort food to innovative seafood dishes. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Mobile’s food landscape is an adventure that promises both delight and surprise.
Key Takeaways
- Mobile offers a mix of traditional and innovative cuisine, making it a top food destination.
- Seafood is a staple in Mobile, with establishments like Wintzell’s Oyster House and Ed’s Seafood Shed.
- Food tours like The Bienville Bites provide a comprehensive taste of the city’s culinary offerings.
- Local favorites such as neon-pink hot dogs and Moon Pies add unique flavors to the food scene.
- Upscale dining options such as Southern National Restaurant blend artful cooking with a casual atmosphere.
1. Southern National Restaurant
Located at 360 Dauphin St in Mobile’s vibrant Arts District, Southern National Restaurant is a must-visit for any food enthusiast exploring Mobile. This upscale restaurant and bar, set in the beautifully restored historic Wilkins-Higgins building, offers a unique blend of artfully crafted comfort food in a modern, minimalist setting. The open kitchen adds to the inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.
The menu at Southern National is a testament to culinary creativity, featuring dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Highlights include the Nutter Butter Chai Panna Cotta for dessert, a true delight for the senses. The wine list is carefully curated to complement the diverse flavors of the dishes, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.
Southern National was among the best restaurants we had tried on our entire Gulf Coast Road Trip. If you’re a foodie on the hunt for a great weekend getaway destination in the South, dinner at Southern National is reason enough to head to Mobile.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Southern National promises an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.
2. Wintzell’s Oyster House
Located at 6700 Airport Blvd, Wintzell’s Oyster House stands as a beacon for seafood lovers in Mobile. Known for its rich history and excellent service, this restaurant offers a delightful array of seafood dishes that cater to all tastes. From the classic fried oyster platter to the more refined oyster Rockefeller, each dish is prepared with care and served with a smile. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for both casual diners and special occasions.
At Wintzell’s, the commitment to freshness and quality is evident in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of raw oysters or prefer them steamed, there’s something here to satisfy your cravings.
For those who appreciate a good meal, Wintzell’s Oyster House is a must-visit. The combination of delicious food, friendly staff, and a warm atmosphere makes it one of the top seafood destinations in Mobile.
3. Ed’s Seafood Shed
Located on the picturesque Mobile Bay, Ed’s Seafood Shed offers a delightful dining experience with its prime waterfront setting. Recently taken over by Chef Pete Blohme, a Culinary Institute of America alumnus, the restaurant has maintained its charm and continues to serve the famous "Yo Mama’s Platter!"—a generous assortment of fried local seafood that has become a regional favorite.
Whether you choose to dine inside or enjoy the scenic views from the upper or lower deck, the menu at Ed’s Seafood Shed will not disappoint. Specializing in classic southern seafood dishes like gumbo, shrimp, oysters, and redfish, the restaurant also surprises with local fish like mullet, which is served deep-fried and is surprisingly mild and flavorful.
Chef Pete, known for his colorful party pants, brings a unique flair to the dishes, ensuring that each meal is not only delicious but also a visual treat.
4. The Bienville Bites Food Tour
Experience the culinary diversity of Mobile with the Bienville Bites Food Tour, a guided walking tour that takes you through the historic streets of Mobile, Alabama. This unique tour is the first of its kind in Mobile, offering a blend of history and gastronomy in a single experience. Enjoy a 3-hour stroll through the Lower Dauphin Street Historic District, affectionately known as the LoDa Stroll, where you’ll taste some of the best food and drink Mobile has to offer.
The tour not only highlights traditional Southern delights but also includes stops at places like Von’s Bistro, adding an Asian spice to the mix. It’s a perfect activity for foodies looking to explore Mobile’s rich culinary landscape in a fun and engaging way.
5. The Royal Scam
Nestled in the heart of Mobile, The Royal Scam offers a delightful array of seafood dishes that cater to every palate. From their famous shrimp po’boys to the exquisite seared scallops, each dish is prepared with a touch of culinary mastery. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for both casual lunches and romantic dinners.
- Signature Dish: Shrimp Po’boy
- Must-Try: Seared Scallops
- Ambiance: Cozy and inviting
The Royal Scam is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience that you wouldn’t want to miss when in Mobile.
6. Heroes Bar & Grill
Heroes Bar & Grill offers a hearty menu that caters to all tastes, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors. It features classic pub favorites like fish and chips and several varieties of chicken wings, plus a selection of one-third pound burgers served with house-cut french fries. The Hot Trails and Bacon burger boasts house fire-roasted hot peppers and ghost pepper cheddar for the adventurous, while the Whiskey Tango features a zesty whiskey tango sauce. Additionally, Heroes serves salads made with seasonal ingredients and several types of grilled cheese. The on-site bar serves beer, wine, and other spirits, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fiery burger or a classic fish and chips, Heroes Bar & Grill is your go-to destination in Mobile for satisfying pub grub.
7. Panini Pete’s
If you’re looking for a spot that combines great food with a touch of patriotism, Panini Pete’s is your go-to in Mobile. Start your day with what Food Network calls the best beignets in the world, thanks to a secret hint of lemon. For lunch, the paninis are a must-try, each bursting with flavor and crafted with care.
Dining Options
Panini Pete’s offers a variety of dining experiences. Inside, the decor features eclectic artwork and mounted fish trophies, creating a unique ambiance. Alternatively, you can enjoy your meal outdoors on the upper or lower deck, which offers stunning views of the Bay.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Panini Pete’s is a delightful exploration of seafood and local dishes. Favorites include gumbo, shrimp, oysters, and redfish. Don’t miss out on trying the deep-fried mullet, which is surprisingly mild and flavorful, turning skeptics into believers.
Community and Service
Chef Pete is not only known for his culinary skills but also for his commitment to service. He co-founded the Messlords, a group of chefs dedicated to entertaining and cooking for the armed forces. The restaurant honors this commitment with a special table devoted to POWs and MIAs.
At Panini Pete’s, every meal is an opportunity to enjoy delicious food and celebrate community spirit.
8. Von’s Bistro
Add some Asian spice to the mix at Von’s Bistro and you have a well-rounded mini tour of some of Mobile’s most delicious food. This unique spot combines traditional Southern flavors with a delightful Asian twist, offering a menu that’s as diverse as it is tasty. Whether you’re in the mood for a light, flavorful lunch or a hearty dinner, Von’s Bistro caters to all tastes and preferences.
The atmosphere is casual yet inviting, making it a perfect place for both family dinners and date nights. Don’t miss out on their signature dishes which are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
9. Dew Drop Inn
Founded in 1924, the Dew Drop Inn stands as the oldest restaurant in Mobile, AL, boasting a charmingly nostalgic atmosphere that has captivated locals and tourists alike for nearly a century. This iconic spot is renowned for its Dew Drop Hot Dog, a must-try that comes "all the way" with kraut, chili, mustard, ketchup, and a big pickle chip — a true taste of the south!
Beyond the famous hot dogs, the Dew Drop Inn offers a variety of homemade dishes that keep guests coming back. From their hearty burgers, rumored to be a favorite of Jimmy Buffett, to a selection of sides like baked potato salad, coleslaw, and house-made onion rings, there’s something to satisfy every palate. If you love places that have stood the test of time and still serve the foods that made them famous, you’ll adore the Dew Drop.
Remember, when you visit, ordering the hot dog "all the way" is the secret handshake of locals!
10. Kitchen on George
At Kitchen on George, you’ll discover a delightful blend of comfort and innovation in every dish. The open kitchen design not only adds an element of entertainment but also showcases the meticulous care Chef Duane Nutter applies to each plate before it leaves the kitchen. This unique feature enhances the dining experience, making each visit memorable.
In a nutshell, it’s artfully crafted comfort food. The cool minimalist decor complements the vibrant atmosphere created by the open kitchen, where culinary magic happens right before your eyes.
Mobile’s food scene is vibrant and eclectic, and Kitchen on George stands out by infusing southern grace into its dishes, creating a unique dining experience that reflects the city’s flair for both tradition and innovation.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our culinary journey through Mobile, it’s clear that this city is a treasure trove of seafood delights and much more. From the historic charm of Southern National Restaurant to the lively atmosphere of Ed’s Seafood Shed, Mobile offers a diverse palette of flavors that cater to every taste. Whether you’re indulging in the neon-pink hot dogs at the Dew Drop Inn or savoring the charred oysters at Wintzell’s, each meal is a celebration of local tradition and culinary innovation. Don’t miss the chance to experience the vibrant food scene in Mobile on your next visit. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a place to create lasting memories around delicious food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cuisine can I expect at Southern National Restaurant?
Southern National offers artfully crafted comfort food in a casual yet upscale setting, located in Mobile’s popular Arts District.
What is special about Wintzell’s Oyster House?
Wintzell’s is known for its charred oysters and is a beloved establishment in Mobile, offering a traditional seafood experience.
What can I find at Ed’s Seafood Shed?
Ed’s Seafood Shed is famous for ‘Yo Mama’s Platter,’ a generous blend of fried local seafood, located right on Mobile Bay.
What is the Bienville Bites Food Tour?
The Bienville Bites Food Tour is an entertaining food tour that includes several must-eat places in Mobile, perfect for foodies.
What makes The Royal Scam unique?
The Royal Scam is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse menu, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
What can guests enjoy at Heroes Bar & Grill?
Heroes Bar & Grill offers a fun environment with a diverse menu, ideal for a good time with friends and family.
What is unique about Panini Pete’s?
Panini Pete’s is famous for having the best beignets, served fresh in the morning, and delicious paninis for lunch.
What does Von’s Bistro offer?
Von’s Bistro adds an Asian spice to the local cuisine mix, providing a unique flavor experience in Mobile’s food scene.
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