On the Gulf Coast, Gulfport delivers a blend of beach-town ease, Deep South heart, and a slow-cooked culinary tradition.
Fresh catch, soulful barbecue, and New Orleans influence flow through every table.
Half Shell Oyster House
A centerpiece of downtown, Half Shell brings both elegant and raucous energy to the coast. Oysters—raw, charbroiled, or fried—are the highlight, followed by seafood gumbo, shrimp and grits, blackened redfish, and praline brownies for dessert.
The space glows with Southern charm and is always humming with conversation, especially at the marble oyster bar up front.
The Rack House
In a modern, casual setting, The Rack House brings smokehouse comfort: brisket smoked overnight, ribs slathered in sweet heat sauce, and a “truckload” of Southern sides—cheddar grits, fried okra, cornbread, and collard greens.
The bourbon list and local beers are deep, and weekends see packed tables of regulars, families, and visitors from Biloxi sharing brisket platters and stories.
Tony’s Brick Oven Pizzeria
Downtown’s favorite pizza comes from Tony’s, where house-made sauces, crispy crusts, and inventive toppings (from Gulf shrimp to Andouille sausage) win over even the pickiest beach goers.
The wood-burning oven crackles in a bright, festive space, and pastas and calzones are made fresh daily.
Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach
Just off the white sands, Shaggy’s is a surfer’s haven—flip-flops welcome. Fish tacos, crispy grouper sandwiches, crab dip, peel-and-eat shrimp, and knockout breakfasts.
Frozen drinks and local ales flow all day, live music keeps the mood loose, and the deck is the city’s “second living room” until the sunset disappears.
Lil’ Ray’s
Gulfport’s answer to the classic seafood shack, Lil’ Ray’s is famed for red beans and rice, po’ boys stuffed with catfish or shrimp, and boiled crawfish when in season.
Wear your sandals, bring your appetite, and expect to wait—the lines are always worth it.
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