Gulfport comfort food blends Gulf Coast seafood with Southern soul—think shrimp and grits, hushpuppies, buttery biscuits, and platters that feel like a family fish fry.
These five spots are all about generous portions and coastal warmth.
Half Shell Oyster House
A regional favorite with deep roots along the Coast, Half Shell pairs lively energy with deeply satisfying plates.
Chargrilled oysters arrive sizzling with garlic butter and parmesan, while the shrimp and grits are creamy and smoky with tasso-laced gravy.
Redfish Orleans or blackened mahi brings that rich, buttery sauce Southerners love.
Start with crab-and-crawfish dip, add a side of cheesy grits, and lean into a bread pudding finish.
The Rack House Steaks & Spirits
Upscale-casual and comfort-forward, The Rack House serves steaks and roasts that stick to your ribs.
The pot roast is textbook cozy over mashed potatoes with glossy gravy, while chicken-fried steak brings a peppered cream sauce and serious crunch.
Sides are soulful—collards, mac and cheese, and skillet cornbread—and the bourbon-forward bar program pairs naturally with the richness.
Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach
Nothing says coastal comfort like a beachside plate of fried seafood.
At Shaggy’s, baskets come loaded with golden shrimp, catfish, and oysters, all crisp and hot with hushpuppies and slaw.
Po’boys are stuffed and saucy, the gumbo is dark and deeply flavored, and the blackened fish tacos bring a fresh, cool crunch.
The vibe is breezy and family-friendly—easy to linger over sunset.
Murky Waters Blues n’ BBQ
Live blues, smoky meats, and a rowdy-good time—Murky Waters hits multiple comfort notes.
Brisket and pulled pork are juicy with a solid bark, ribs are lacquered and tender, and the smoked wings are a cult favorite.
Stack a plate with mac and cheese, baked beans, and potato salad, then finish with banana pudding. It’s the kind of place where the aroma grabs you before you step inside.
Tony’s Brick Oven Pizzeria
When you want a carb hug, Tony’s delivers with blistered pies and red-sauce favorites.
The margherita is simple and satisfying, while meat-lovers and supreme-style pies pack that hearty, game-night appeal.
Baked pastas bubble with cheese, and garlic knots fly off the trays. It’s casual, bustling, and perfect for family-style sharing.
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