Foodie Tour of the Upper Texas Coast
So you think you’re a foodie? What you’ll love about the Upper Texas Coast is that we’ve got something for everyone. Read on for our “foodie must-do” foodie tour of the Upper Texas Coast.
Jefferson County Foodie Stops
Let’s start our Foodie Tour of the Upper Texas Coast in Jefferson County. Our first stop is at J. Wilson’s, 4190 Gladys Avenue, in Beaumont. J. Wilson’s, which opened in 2016, keeps the community coming back for more with favorites like their Man Candy, which is slow, smoked pork belly tossed in habanero jelly. You’ll also want to order their Oyster Nachos. Locals also recommend their flatbreads and burgers. Insider Tip: Sit at the bar. They offer 25 bottles of bourbon and a rotating beer tap.
Next, we’re heading to Port Arthur for Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp, 3400 Jimmy Johnson Blvd. Locals recommend Cajun Fried Ribs, Steak Nachos, and Shrimp Etouffee Stuffed Pistolettes. Their Facebook page describes their food as MEXICAJUN. You’ll also find a Tia Juanita’s in Beaumont.
Galveston County Foodie Stops
Next, we’re heading to Galveston County for Smokin’ D’s BBQ Fusion, 2625 SH 35 N, Unit 191, in Alvin. The Cooking Channel has featured Owner and Chef Dustin Jimenez, a third-generation pit master. Locals love his Brisket Macdilla, BBS Baos, Fried Honey Sriracha Brussel Sprouts, and any of his BBQ plates. He incorporates Tex-Mex, Asian, and Creole flavors into his cooking style.
Another must-do stop in Galveston County is Maceo Spice & Import Company, 2706 Market, in Galveston. Rosario Maceo is the nephew of the legendary muffuletta maker Toni Lovi from New Orleans. He brought his family recipe to Galveston. His son Ronnie Maceo continues the tradition. Maceo Spice is in a popular area called West Market.
Brazoria County Foodie Stops
Let’s continue to Brazoria County. Since you’re traveling along the coast, you’d better stop at the Red Snapper Inn, 402 Bluewater Highway, in Surfside Beach. Red Snapper Inn prepares its fresh gulf seafood with a taste of Greek and Cajun influence. Locals recommend the Crab Florentine. According to Texas Monthly, Texas Highways, and numerous other publications, this is one of the best seafood establishments on the Texas coast.
Matagorda County Foodie Stops
Next on the list are two stops in Matagorda County. First, stop at the Fat Grass Restaurant and Bar, 1717 7th Street, in Bay City. Chef Shawn C. Watkins has traveled around the world and trained in the French method of cooking, known as “Le Cordon Bleu.” Their specialty is the Fat Grass Ribeye and Grilled Sirloin. Check their Facebook page for specials.
Who would have thought a convenience store would make an excellent stop for Foodies? Our last visit is at The Point, 601 First Street, in Palacios. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown featured The Point in the Houston segment, which aired in October 2016. Locals enjoy their comfort food, like meatloaf, and their Vietnamese specials. You’ll also see delicious comfort food on their menu: picture Maple Pecan Crusted Pork Chops or Pork Guisado with Mexican Rice. Check their Facebook page for their current specials.
We encourage you to look for those locally owned small restaurants as you explore the Upper Texas Coast. One of the great things about Texas is people are always willing to give a recommendation. Search our website’s Things to Do section for suggestions for the Upper Texas Coast and download/bookmark our Trip Plans.
About Lone Star Coastal Alliance
The Lone Star Coastal Alliance is a 501(c)3 created to preserve and promote the upper Texas Gulf Coast region in a manner that enhances coastal resilience while fostering economic development focused on conservation and tourism, elevating the unique natural, cultural, and historical assets of the region and benefitting quality of life within the communities.
Restaurant Cheat Sheet:
J. Wilson’s, 4190 Gladys Avenue, in Beaumont
Where to Stay in Beaumont: MCM Elegante Hotel
Drive Time/Miles to Port Arthur Restaurant: 20 min/18.7 miles
Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp, 3400 Jimmy Johnson Blvd., in Port Arthur, TX
Where to Stay in Port Arthur: Sabine Lake Lodge
Drive Time/Miles to Alvin Restaurant: 1 hr, 51 min/108 miles
Smokin D’s BBQ Fusion, 2625 SH 35 N, Unit 191, in Alvin, TX
Drive Time/Miles to Galveston Restaurant: 42 min/33.5 miles
Maceo Spice & Import Company, 2706 Market, in Galveston, TX
Where to Stay in Galveston: The Tremont House
Drive Time/Miles to Surfside Restaurant: 59 min/39.4 miles
Red Snapper Inn, 402 Bluewater Highway, in Surfside Beach
Where to Stay in Surfside: Breeze Hotel & RV Park
Drive Time/Miles to Bay City Restaurant: 59 min/49.6 miles
Fat Grass Restaurant and Bar, 1717 7th Street, in Bay City
Drive Time/Miles to Palacios Restaurant: 28 min/28.5 miles
The Point, 601 First Street, in Palacios
Where to Stay in Palacios: Hotel Blessing
