DINE YOUR WAY
From casual bites to fine dining, beach bars to breweries, taste it all in Corpus Christi.
FOODIE GUIDE
COASTAL FLAVORS
Locally caught seafood, Texas-style barbecue, savory Tex-Mex dishes, and more foodie favorites await.
In Corpus Christi, great food comes with a side of sun-soaked views and warm hospitality. From fresh-caught gulf seafood to mouthwatering barbecue and authentic Tex-Mex, our food scene is a true reflection of the Texas coast.
Whether you’re craving a waterfront dining experience, a hidden local gem, or a casual bite between adventures, you’ll find flavors that capture the essence of the Gulf. Gather your crew and embark on a delicious foodie journey in the Gulf Coast Capital.
CONTRIBUTORS
PIERS
Red Dot Pier
Philip Dimitt Municipal Fishing Pier
Thank you to all the contributors who made this foodie field guide possible. Your collaboration has transformed this project into a valuable resource for all who enjoy a taste of the coast.
Cos Way Pier
Cole Park Pier
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kathryn Hyatt
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Kylie Marchitello
COPYWRITER
Jacqueline Gonzalez
CONTENT STRATEGIST
Baylee Arnold
PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS
@fmcctx_color Jason David Page, Rachel Benavides The Bend Magazine
Emerald Beach Hotel @1983mexicafe
@bnjspizzabrewpub @gallery41cc
@katzprimesteaks @nuecesbrewing
@padreislandburgercompany @bienmerite
@rebeltoadbrewing @omnicorpuschristi
@executivesurfclub Hameen Reynolds
@bellinoristorantecc @dokyodauntaun
@elizabeths_amst @downtowncorpuschristi
@elcamino_texmex @brewsterstreet
Ginger Cafe & Grill
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SEAFOOD
Discover fresh catches, gulf oysters, and coastal flavors.
BARBECUE
Enjoy slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and hearty comfort plates.
TEX-MEX
Dig into sizzling fajitas, cheesy enchiladas, and tasty tacos.
FINE DINING
Savor elegant plates, chef-driven menus, and intimate settings.
FOODIE MAP
Find your way to the city’s must-try restaurants.
INTERNATIONAL CUISINE
Explore global flavors from sushi to Mediterranean favorites.
CASUAL DINING
Relax with laid-back bites, from burgers to family favorites.
BREWERIES
Sip craft brews, visit local taprooms, and try Corpus Christi originals.
BEACH BARS
Unwind with cocktails by the water and your toes in the sand.
SEAFOOD FAVORITES
BIG FLAVORS, FRESH CATCHES & UNFORGETTABLE MEALS
When it comes to seafood, Corpus Christi serves it up fresh and flavorful. Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors of Corpus Christi, where every meal comes with a side of coastal views and a taste of the Gulf Coast.
DOC’S SEAFOOD AND STEAKS | Enjoy a menu featuring a variety of seafood dishes from blackened fish to stuffed flounder and buttery crab cakes. Every dish served is a tribute to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail or a classic margarita while soaking in the stunning waterfront views from the spacious deck.
SNOOPY’S PIER | Dine on casual seafood by the water at this local favorite. Choose from crispy fried shrimp, flaky fish, and house-made hush puppies with a side of unbeatable views. Whether you’re digging into a fresh catch platter or enjoying a classic fish sandwich, every bite is pure Gulf Coast comfort.
DOC’S SEAFOOD & STEAKS
SNOOPY’S PIER
Your Pocket Guide To: Foodie Spots
WATER STREET OYSTER BAR | Savor the bold, coastal flavors of the Gulf at this downtown staple from locally grown gulf oysters to seafood-stacked po’boys and rich seafood jambalaya. Be sure to check out the daily blackboard specials and pair your meal with a signature cocktail for the ultimate Corpus Christi dining experience.
HARRISON’S LANDING | Dine on the water with seafood tacos, grilled fish, shrimp diablos, or crispy fried platters. Relax on the breezy patio, browse Cathy’s Boutique, and set sail at the only place in Corpus Christi where you can do it all in one spot. Upstairs, you’ll find The Mariner, a speakeasy-style hideaway serving tapas like Lamb Lollies, Smoked Snapper Dip, and craft cocktails with daily happy hour specials.
COSTA SUR WOK & CEVICHE BAR | Discover bold, coastal flavor with a Peruvian twist at this Padre Island gem. Specializing in fresh ceviche, wok-fired seafood, and vibrant fusion dishes, Costa Sur delivers bright, made-to-order meals full of spice and creativity. Try the Ceviche Mixto or the fiery Spicy Tuna Tiradito for a taste of why locals call it the King of Ceviche.
COSTA SUR WOK & CEVICHE BAR
WATER STREET OYSTER BAR
HARRISON’S LANDING
THE MARINER
PIT-SMOKED PERFECTION
BRINGING THE HEAT WITH CORPUS CHRISTI’S BEST BBQ
Corpus Christi doesn’t mess around with Texas barbecue. Tender brisket, juicy ribs, smoky sausage, and loaded sandwiches await at laid-back joints and creative spots alike, serving slow-smoked perfection across the Gulf Coast Capital.
FULL SEND BARBECUE | Savor mesquite-smoked meats and award-winning Texas-style barbecue crafted expertly with bold flavors from this food-truckstyle bus. Pair your brisket or ribs with house-made sides for a true Full Send experience.
HOEGEMEYER’S BARBEQUE BARN | Enjoy classic Texas BBQ with a twist. Their house-smoked meats, creative “sammiches,” and homestyle sides are served in an eclectic, welcoming barn that dates back to the early 1900s.
THE BAR-B-Q MAN RESTAURANT & CATERING | Dine on fresh, championshipquality BBQ made with authentic low and slow techniques. Whether you’re grabbing a plate of slow-smoked brisket or feeding a crowd, you’re guaranteed bold flavors and big portions.
NUECES BREWING CO. | Great beer meets great barbecue at this downtown brewery that is now home to bold, smoky flavors and famous brisket nachos. Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere where every pint pairs perfectly with hearty, Texas-style barbecue.
MIKE COTTEN’S BARBECUE | Enjoy lean, tender brisket, juicy ribs, smoked turkey, and more, where every bite is packed with bold Texas taste. Don’t skip the sides—cheese ‘n’ crackers and crispy chips round out the perfect BBQ feast.
NUECES BREWING CO.
Your Pocket Guide To: Foodie Spots
MR. G’S BAR-B-QUE | Dig into smoky, slow-cooked perfection at this familyowned favorite with tender brisket, juicy ribs, and their famous housemade sausage. With fast, friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere, this local gem delivers classic Texas barbecue in every bite.
GARRETT’S BARBECUE | Savor 24 hour slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage, where every bite is a testament to patience, passion, and perfectly balanced smoky flavor, making this a must-visit spot for serious barbecue lovers.
HOWARD’S BBQ & CATERING | Load up your plate with mesquite-smoked brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and all the classic Texas fixins’. Known for the legendary “Jimmy” wrap—packed with sliced brisket, sausage, and chopped beef—this local favorite delivers big flavors with every bite.
BBQ RESTAURANTS YOU MUST TRY IN CORPUS CHRISTI
Explore Corpus Christi’s must-try barbecue joints and find your next plate of smoky perfection. Start your flavor-filled adventure today.
SCAN THE QR to read the blog.
FIESTA OF FLAVOR
SAVOR THE BOLD AND AUTHENTIC FLAVORS OF TEX-MEX
Get ready to explore the rich flavors of Tex-Mex in Corpus Christi, where every dish is crafted with tradition and bold, authentic taste.
EL CAMINO COMIDA & BAR | Enjoy elevated Tex-Mex cuisine, late night bites, and unique cocktails. Highlights include Tex-Mex BBQ Oysters chargrilled and topped with chipotle butter and parmesan, and the irresistible Churro Donuts made from Central Kitchen brioche glazed and tossed in cinnamon sugar.
FRIDA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT |
Savor bold flavors, beautifully plated dishes, and handcrafted cocktails with a modern twist in an ambiance inspired by the legendary artist Frida Kahlo. Try the Molcajete, a sizzling mix of fajitas, shrimp, smoked sausage, grilled onions, cheese, and sauce served in a traditional volcanic stone bowl.
YOLA COCINA MEXICANA | Drawing inspiration from traveling and the tastes of dishes from 27 countries,
YOLA Cocina Mexicana serves up traditional dishes in an elevated setting. Although the menu consists of predominantly traditional Mexican food, the menu does offer Tex-Mex enchiladas smothered in ground beef and savory sauce and topped with cheddar and american cheeses.
GUAJILLO’S ON THE ISLAND | Enjoy everything from traditional Mexican specialties to signature guajilloinfused dishes in a relaxed island setting. Their rich mole and chilaquiles come in a variety of flavor combinations, and the Poblano Beans, made with mole poblano, fresh cheese, and sesame seeds, are a must-try.
SCAN THE QR to read our full blog on the best breakfast tacos in Corpus Christi! From loaded tortillas to classic bacon and egg, discover the top local spots serving up the morning fuel you didn’t know you needed.
Your Pocket Guide To: Foodie Spots
YOLA COCINA MEXICANA
EL CAMINO COMIDA & BAR
GUAJILLO’S ON THE ISLAND
EL CAMINO COMIDA & BAR
EL CAMINO COMIDA & BAR
FINE DINING
SAVOR EXPERTLY CRAFTED DISHES IN ELEGANT SETTINGS
Discover Corpus Christi’s top fine dining spots, where expertly crafted cuisine meets elegant settings for a truly memorable experience.
REPUBLIC OF TEXAS BAR & GRILL | Savor prime cuts and fresh seafood at Republic of Texas Bar & Grill, located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel with stunning bay views. This AAA Four-Diamond restaurant is known for its USDA prime beef, wild game, and expertly crafted dishes, all complemented by an award-winning wine list—perfect for a special night out.
BELLINO RISTORANTE E BOTTEGA | Enjoy a cozy, authentic Italian dining experience where every sauce, dessert, and pasta is made from scratch. Their extensive wine cellar and handcrafted cocktails offer the perfect pairing to your meal. For a unique experience, visit on Thursdays to enjoy farm-to-table specials, or join in for wine pairings with a sommelier on the first and last Fridays of the month.
KATZ 21 STEAK & SPIRITS | Indulge in dry-aged prime beef and Gulf Coast seafood at Katz 21. With an awardwinning wine list, three private dining rooms for special events, and live entertainment at Club 21, this upscale spot delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
REPUBLIC OF TEXAS
BELLINO RISTORANTE E BOTTEGA
GALLERY 41 | Enjoy an intimate dining experience that blends art and cuisine in a modern yet welcoming setting with views of the marina. Known for its thoughtfully curated menu, this chef-driven restaurant highlights locally sourced ingredients, fresh seafood, and innovative dishes plated with artistic precision. Whether you’re indulging in a multi-course meal or savoring a carefully selected wine pairing, Gallery 41 offers a refined yet creative culinary experience.
THE YARDARM | A seafood staple for more than 40 years, The Yardarm provides a phenomenal view of Corpus Christi Bay. Choose outdoor seating and enjoy your seafood dish paired perfectly with a glass of wine on the ocean deck. Yardarm is an outstanding place for you and your friends to gather and enjoy good food, drinks, and conversation, all with a pictureperfect backdrop.
PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WHISKEY BAR | Savor USDA Prime steak, wet-aged for 45 days and grilled to perfection over mesquite wood at Prime Steakhouse & Whiskey Bar. Choose from Filet Mignon, Ribeye, New York Strip, and more, served with Charred Baby Bell Peppers. Pair your meal with a glass of wine, and don’t forget dessert for the perfect finishing touch.
THE YARDARM
PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WHISKEY BAR
foodie spots
El Camino Comida & Bar
Frida’s Mexican Restaurant
YOLA Cocina Mexicana
Guajillo’s on the Island
Republic of Texas Bar & Grill
Bellino Ristorante e Bottega
Katz 21 Gallery 41
Yardarm
Prime Steakhouse & Whiskey Bar
DRINKS BY THE WATER
Kokomo’s at Emerald Beach
Brewster Street – Padre Island
Doc’s Seafood & Steaks
Beachside Bar & Grill
Eighteen 18 Sunset Island
Elizabeth’s at the Art Museum
Dokyo Dauntaun
BKK Thai Kitchen & Bar
Roaming Ronin
Bellino Ristorante e Bottega
Mamma Lina
Persis Indian Grill & Bar
Sufi Kabob
Ginger Café
Bien Mérité
YOLA Cocina Mexicana
Costa Sur Wok & Ceviche Bar
Executive Surf Club
Hard Knocks Sports Grill
Ridley’s on the Island
Padre Island Burger Co.
Brewster Street Icehouse
Nueces Brewing Co.
Rebel Toad Brewing Lazy Beach Brewing Aerodrome Distilling
Railroad Seafood & Brewery
B&J’s Pizza - Brew Pub
EXPLORE WORLD CUISINE
AROUND THE WORLD, ONE PLATE AT A TIME
Build your own cuisine trip around the world with Corpus Christi’s best international spots. From Vietnamese bowls to Italian dishes, you can get a taste of the world all in one city.
MEDITERRANEAN | Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean at Elizabeth’s at the Art Museum, where fresh, vibrant ingredients take center stage. From savory mezze plates to perfectly prepared seafood and handcrafted cocktails, every dish reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean coast. With stunning bayfront views and a stylish, airy setting, Elizabeth’s offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience that feels like a getaway by the sea.
ASIA | Dive into the fusion flavors at Dokyo Dauntaun, where the experience is as dynamic as the food. With its vibrant atmosphere, featuring lighting, music, art, and craft cocktails, you’ll savor Japanese and Korean dishes in style. For a creative spin on Asian flavors, BKK Thai Kitchen & Bar serves classic Thai dishes inspired by global travels, while Roaming Ronin serves Asian dishes with a Texan twist, inspired by the owner’s time in Southeast Asia as a U.S. Navy veteran.
ELIZABETH’S
DOKYO DAUNTAUN
ITALY | Savor authentic Italian flavors at Bellino and Mamma Lina, two standout spots bringing the taste of Italy to Corpus Christi. Bellino offers a refined Sicilian-inspired menu with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes crafted with a modern touch. Meanwhile, Mamma Lina serves up comforting, homestyle Italian dishes, from handmade pasta to rich, flavorful sauces that feel like a warm embrace. Whether you’re in the mood for an elegant Italian meal or a cozy, family-style feast, these restaurants deliver a true taste of Italy.
INDIA & MIDDLE EAST | Persis
Indian Grill & Bar blends the rich traditions of Indian cuisine with local ingredients for a truly unique Corpus Christi dining experience. For a more casual bite, Sufi Kabob offers a fusion of Indian, Pakistani, Persian, and Halal dishes. Swing by Ginger Café for a taste of international cuisine from Greece to the Indian subcontinent.
SCAN THE QR CODE to explore Corpus Christi’s international cuisine and take your taste buds on a trip around the world.
FRANCE | Experience a taste of France at Bien Mérité, where buttery croissants, delicate pastries, and delicious lunches are served in a beautifully curated setting. Whether you’re indulging in a flaky treat or enjoying a leisurely midday meal, this charming café offers a picture-perfect escape.
SOUTH AMERICA | For a fiesta of homemade Mexican food, YOLA Cocina Mexicana features traditional Mexican food inspired by the owner’s travels and the flavors of dishes from 27 different countries, all served in an elevated setting. If Peruvian cuisine calls your name, head to Costa Sur Wok & Ceviche Bar for seafood-focused delights crafted by the King of Ceviche, where fresh, modern twists enhance every bite.
GINGER CAFÉ
CASUAL DINING
UNWIND
WITH GREAT FOOD IN A CASUAL
ATMOSPHERE
From waterfront hangouts to neighborhood gems, these local favorites serve up bold flavors in relaxed settings, because in Corpus Christi, good food and good vibes go hand in hand.
EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB | Enjoy comfort food with a Texas twist in a casual, coastal setting. Known for their legendary shoestring fries, this local favorite also serves up juicy burgers, crispy fried seafood, and fish tacos. Pair your meal with an ice-cold beer and enjoy live music in the laid-back courtyard.
HARD KNOCKS SPORTS GRILL | Catch the game and fuel up at Hard Knocks Sports Bar, where big flavors meet big screens. Go for the Knockout Wings or try the fanfavorite Cowboy Burger piled high with bacon, cheddar, and fried jalapeños. With a lively crowd and cold drinks on deck, it’s game day every day.
RIDLEY’S ON THE ISLAND | Brunch meets the coast at Ridley’s, where every dish is crafted from scratch and served with island flair. Favorites like the Lobster Bennie, Brisket Hash, and Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes make this Island gem a must for your next laid-back morning.
SCAN THE QR CODE to find the best desserts in town and satisfy your sweet tooth.
EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB
Your Pocket Guide To: Foodie Spots
PADRE ISLAND BURGER CO. | Kick back at this island go-to for gourmet burgers made with 1-half lb. Angus beef on a sweet sourdough bun. Try the Jalapeño Popper Burger or the surf-and-turf-style Drunken Jack. With crispy fries, weekend live music, and plenty of TVs, it’s the perfect beachside hangout.
BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE | Enjoy elevated bar bites, stacked burgers, and comfort food favorites in a lively, music-filled setting at three locations: downtown, southside, and the Island. Try the Texas Philly made with smoked brisket or the fried catfish platter with crispy sides. With live music and a kids-eat-free Monday special, it’s a hit for all ages.
PADRE ISLAND BURGER CO.
BREWSTER STREET ICEHOUSE
RIDLEY’S ON THE ISLAND
BREWERIES BY THE BAY
TAP INTO THE LOCAL FLAVOR WITH THESE MUST-VISIT BREWERIES Corpus Christi’s brewery scene is packed with flavor and plenty of creativity. With relaxed taprooms, spacious patios, and great food to match, these breweries offer the perfect spots to sip, savor, and soak in the Corpus Christi vibe.
NUECES BREWING CO. | Sip on crisp, refreshing craft beer in a restored downtown building with a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for sunset views. Try the Original Lager, a Mexican-style lager that captures the taste of Corpus Christi. Kid and pet-friendly, plus great barbecue!
REBEL TOAD BREWING | Sample “craft beer with an attitude” in the heart of the Marina Arts District. Try bold brews like the Bionic Blonde, Angry Man Porter, or the fan-favorite Evil Little Soul Belgian Tripel. Visit during the ArtWalk Block Party to enjoy local art and grab brewery merch like koozies and insulated growlers.
NUECES BREWING CO.
REBEL TOAD
RAILROAD SEAFOOD & BREWERY
LAZY BEACH BREWING | Unwind with creative craft brews at Lazy Beach’s downtown and southside locations, both offering a laid-back atmosphere with acoustic jams and a spacious outdoor area. Try Texas Bock or Choppy Waters, inspired by Corpus Christi’s surf. Don’t miss the signature hard kombucha—this was the first brewery in Texas to make it! Kid-friendly, with games and food trucks.
AERODROME DISTILLING | Come preflight in Flour Bluff! Raise a glass to handcrafted spirits at Corpus Christi’s first distillery. Enjoy expertly crafted bourbon, rye, rum, and vodka, or sip on pre-prohibition-style cocktails in an aviationinspired tasting room.
Your Pocket Guide To: Foodie Spots
RAILROAD
SEAFOOD & BREWERY |
Sip on one of 28 local and regional favorites on draft. Pair a cold brew with their delicious menu items. Come hungry— there’s a full menu of food and craft drinks to explore.
B&J’S PIZZA – BREW PUB | Grab a bite with house-brewed beers, 25 rotating drafts, and over 100 bottled options with a menu of sandwiches, wings, and pizza at this Southside location.
AERODROME DISTILLING
LAZY BEACH BREWING
B&J’S PIZZA - BREW PUB
DRINKS BY THE WATER
YOUR GUIDE TO CORPUS CHRISTI’S BEST WATERFRONT BARS
Nothing pairs better with ocean views than a refreshing drink in hand. Corpus Christi’s beach bars offer the perfect mix of laid-back vibes, live music, and waterfront scenery.
KOKOMO’S AT EMERALD BEACH | Sip a cocktail with your toes in the sand at one of the bayfront’s best-kept secrets. Open seasonally from March to October, this beachfront bar offers live music, karaoke, and bar-side service from the hotel’s restaurant. No need to be a guest to enjoy the drinks and ocean breeze, but after one visit, you might want to book a stay.
BREWSTER STREET ICEHOUSE –PADRE ISLAND | Kick back Island-style with live music, great food, and ice-cold drinks at this laid-back waterfront hangout. With sunset views, spacious outdoor seating, and a family-friendly vibe, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the beach.
SCAN THE QR CODE to discover the coast’s best coffee spots for those who favor caffeine over cocktails.
KOKOMO’S AT EMERALD BEACH
BREWSTER STREET - PADRE ISLAND
DOC’S SEAFOOD & STEAKS | Catch a sunset under the JFK Bridge with fresh gulf seafood, hand-cut steaks, and tropical mixed drinks. This waterfront favorite offers both indoor and outdoor seating with nightly live music from Memorial Day through Labor Day and on weekends yearround.
BEACHSIDE BAR & GRILL AT THE WYNDHAM | Sip seaside at Beachside Bar & Grill, where ocean views, cold drinks, and island breezes create the ultimate coastal escape. With an indoor lounge and outdoor tiki bar steps from the sand, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the island vibe.
EIGHTEEN 18 | Enjoy coastal-inspired cocktails at Eighteen 18, featuring both an indoor bar and a swim-up bar by the pool at the DoubleTree by Hilton on North Beach. Locally owned and infused with Gulf Coast flair, it’s the perfect place to relax and raise a glass seaside.
SUNSET ISLAND | Unwind on Sunset Island, a waterfront spot behind Marker 37 Marina featuring The Cajun at The Pearl, The Cuban, and Snoopy’s Pier. From rum cocktails to Cajun hurricanes, each stop offers breezy views, bold flavors, and easygoing island energy. Whether you’re chasing live music, great drinks, or a perfect sunset, this bayside escape has it all. Your Pocket Guide To: Foodie Spots
EIGHTEEN 18
DOC’S SEAFOOD & STEAKS
