A Foodie’s Guide to Port Aransas Restaurants

In Port Aransas, the salty breeze carries the aroma of freshly caught shrimp, the sweet scent of pastries, and the unmistakable scent of freshly caught fish being cooked to perfection. Long before Port Aransas became a go-to vacation destination, it was a humble fishing town where local fishermen brought their daily catch. Now, you’ll see how these maritime traditions still run deep. Fresh seafood is a way of life in Port A and along with many seafood restaurants, you’ll find unique destinations that combine local flavors and coastal charm.

Let's embark on a flavorful journey through Port Aransas, where every bite captures the essence of island life, and every meal creates memories that last long after the plate is cleared.

Fresh from the Gulf

While plenty of restaurants offer fresh seafood dishes, there are others that will cook your catch right after you clean it! For an authentic seafood dinner, check out these restaurants for a meal that doesn’t disappoint.

Virginia’s on the Bay

815 Trout St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-4088

Dine on the water and choose from fresh land and sea options at Virginia’s on the Bay. Try a classic clam chowder soup with a rich, creamy flavor or bring your own fish and enjoy it grilled, blackened, or fried. The kids can enjoy a delicious meal, too, with fried fish, shrimp, and more to keep them full.

Seafood & Spaghetti Works

910 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-5666

Try a unique blend of fresh seafood and classic Italian dishes at Seafood & Spaghetti Works. Enjoy a delicious seafood boil or specialty pasta dish in a lively family-friendly atmosphere.

Fins Grill & Icehouse

420 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-8646

Fins Grill and Icehouse offers fresh seafood dishes and juicy burgers. Try a fish or shrimp taco seasoned with local flavors of the gulf. For lunch, enjoy a variety of Po Boy sandwiches and crab cake sliders. Treat the whole family to a seafood dinner with a mouthwatering family style meal that will feed your whole group.

Breakfast and Brunch

San Juan Restaurant

410 Cut-Off Rd, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-6521

San Juan is the perfect restaurant for any meal of the day, but the breakfast menu is the perfect way to start the day in Port A. Enjoy a hearty steak and eggs meal or try your eggs with a side of ranchero sauce. Get classic breakfast items like pancakes, biscuits, bacon, and more with a touch of flavor at one of the best Mexican restaurants in Port Aransas.

Island Cafe

301 S Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 |  (361) 749-1741

Island Cafe is a family-owned restaurant serving some of the best breakfast and lunch dishes on the island. From spanish omelets to fresh biscuits and french toast with a fresh coffee or freshly made juices. Bring the whole family for a delicious start to the day.

Barefoot Beans

345 N. Alister Suite E1 Port Aransas, TX 78373  | (361) 339-2120

If you just need a cup of joe to get the day started, Barefoot Beans offers the best atmosphere for your family. Drink on the airy patio as you sip your way around local roasters that provide organic fair trade coffee and tea.

Casual Bites and New Flavors

La Playa

222 Beach Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-0022

La Playa is a local favorite where vibrant coastal flavors meet authentic Mexican recipes. Known for their shrimp enchiladas and seafood-stuffed poblano peppers, La Playa offers generous portions in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Their homemade salsas and fresh tortillas have been drawing locals and tourists alike for over two decades.

Crazy Cajun

303 E Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-5069

True to its name, Crazy Cajun is a lively restaurant that brings Louisiana flavor to the Texas coast. Famous for their spicy boiled seafood served on paper-lined tables, complete with mallets and bibs. Their seafood gumbo and crawfish étouffée transport you straight to New Orleans, while the festive atmosphere makes every meal feel like a celebration.

Kody’s Restaurant and Bar

2034 TX-361 a, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-8226

Kody’s is a laid-back sports bar and grill that's become a local favorite for their perfectly grilled burgers, vast seafood selection, and ice-cold beer selection. Their outdoor patio offers a perfect spot to catch the game or enjoy live music on weekends. Don't miss their all you can eat specials like the all you can eat shrimp specials on Wednesdays.

Happy Hour and Evening Vibes

The Gaff

323 Beach St Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 749-5970

The Gaff is an iconic Port A dive bar that serves up surprisingly good bar food alongside strong drinks and local character. This no-frills spot is where locals gather for karaoke nights and to share island gossip. Their pizzas are made to order, any way you like, and you can’t go wrong with a loaded sandwich topped with meatballs or chicken tenders.

Sip Yard

123 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 267-4917

The Sip Yard is a unique outdoor beer garden that's brought a touch of urban cool to Port A. With rotating food trucks, an extensive craft beer selection, and wine options, it's the perfect spot for a casual evening under the stars. Their string-lit courtyard creates a magical atmosphere for enjoying live music and good company during our peak seasons.

Bron’s Backyard

314 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 | (361) 336-4723

Bron’s Backyard is a hidden gem offering a spacious outdoor setting with games, live music, and satisfying pub fare. Known for their friendly service and relaxed island vibe, it's a perfect spot for families during the day and transforms into a lively local hangout at night. Their smoked meats and creative sandwich offerings draw crowds, while the outdoor games keep everyone entertained.

Explore Port Aransas Restaurants with Aransas Princess

After exploring the mouthwatering world of Port Aransas dining, you might be wondering where to begin your own food journey. The answer is simple: make Aransas Princess your home base for culinary exploration. Our luxurious beachfront condos offer more than just stunning Gulf views and comfortable accommodations – they provide the perfect launching point for your Port A food adventures.

Each Aransas Princess unit features a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, ideal for those mornings when you want to cook up your fresh finds from local seafood markets or for evenings when you'd rather dine on your private balcony while watching the sunset over the Gulf. But when you're ready to explore, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to reach all of Port A's best restaurants – from casual beach bars to upscale dining experiences.