Gulfport has always had beach‑town charm and great Gulf seafood, but in the last few years its dining scene has picked up serious momentum.
Around downtown, the harbor, and along the main corridors, you’ll now find chef‑driven Southern cooking, creative brunch, and polished coastal spots that go way beyond fried baskets.
These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are some of the best reasons to eat in Gulfport right now.
1. Tony’s Brick Oven Pizzeria
Right in downtown Gulfport, Tony’s feels like a lively, casual Italian spot with a serious commitment to its brick oven.
It’s cozy and bustling, with exposed brick, an open kitchen, and a bar that’s usually humming on weekends.
The star is the pizza: thin, crisp‑chewy crust with leopard‑spotted edges, topped with good mozzarella, cured meats, and plenty of fresh vegetables. You’ll find classics like Margherita and pepperoni along with specialty pies loaded with Italian sausage, roasted garlic, and fresh basil.
The menu also includes pastas, baked lasagna, sandwiches, and big salads, so non‑pizza lovers are covered. It’s a great pre‑or‑post‑beach dinner option that still feels like a night out.
2. Patio 44
Patio 44 brings an upscale‑casual, “modern Southern” vibe to Gulfport, with a big patio, handsome bar, and a dining room that works just as well for date night as it does for a business lunch.
The menu leans Louisiana‑influenced Southern: think shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, crab cakes, blackened fish, steaks, and chicken with rich, buttery sauces.
You’ll usually see plenty of Gulf seafood on the menu, along with classic sides like mashed potatoes, greens, and creamy mac and cheese.
The cocktail program is a draw—Southern‑leaning drinks, good bourbon selection, and solid wine by the glass. If you want something a step up from super casual beach fare, this is a strong bet.
3. The Rack House Steak & Spirits
Tucked a bit away from the waterfront rush, The Rack House feels like a grown‑up steakhouse crossed with a whiskey bar. Dark wood, leather, and shelves of bottles set the tone, but it’s not stuffy—just comfortably polished.
Steaks are the focus—hand‑cut, well‑seasoned, and cooked to temp—with classic accompaniments like baked potatoes, asparagus, creamed spinach, and rich sauces.
You’ll also find pork chops, seafood dishes, burgers, and hearty appetizers like crab cakes or seared tuna.
The whiskey list is deep, with plenty of bourbons, ryes, and Scotch, plus craft cocktails built around them. Come here when you want a “big night” meal without having to dress to the nines.
4. Half Shell Oyster House (Gulfport Location)
Half Shell has become a Gulf Coast mini‑chain, but the Gulfport location still feels very local: exposed brick, gas lantern‑style lighting, and a lively crowd of regulars, tourists, and casino spillover.
Oysters are the draw—raw on the half shell, charbroiled with garlic butter and parmesan, or baked with various toppings.
Beyond that, the menu runs the gamut of coastal Southern: crab cakes, redfish, shrimp and grits, fried seafood platters, po’boys, and a few pasta dishes.
The bar turns out solid cocktails and cold beer, and happy hour can be especially fun if you’re in the mood for oysters and drinks. It’s a go‑to “this is what the Gulf Coast tastes like” spot.
5. The Flying Llama Gastropub
A newer addition to downtown, The Flying Llama leans into the modern gastropub lane—playful branding, a lively bar, and a menu that mixes comfort food with global touches.
It feels contemporary without losing Gulfport’s laid‑back feel.
Expect shareable starters like loaded fries, ahi tuna nachos, wings, and dips; mains often include creative burgers, fish tacos, fried or blackened seafood, big salads, and a rotating special or two that might lean seasonal or chef‑driven.
The drink list usually features regional craft beers on tap and cocktails that don’t take themselves too seriously.
It’s a perfect spot if you want something fun and current that still works in flip‑flops after a beach day.
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