This steakhouse boasts both a raw bar and a lengthly list of beef options. Grab a seat on the patio outside and enjoy sweeping views of the marina while digging into a pricey (but worth it) 32-ounce, dry-aged porterhouse.

This long-standing sushi and hibachi spot has served up some of Galveston’s freshest Japanese fare for 20 years. Alongside the extensive selection of sushi rolls, find fried soft-shell crab, yakinuku-style steak, and teriyaki salmon. Fried green tea ice cream or Mississippi mud pie makes for a sweet finish.

For some down home, timelessly good BBQ, head to Leon’s. Perfectly smoked ribs, Prime beef brisket, smoked turkey legs, and homemade boudin await, along with sides like turnip greens, cole slaw, and barbecue beans.

A perennial Galveston favorite that’s been open since 1911, enjoy old-school dishes like red snapper grilled “on the half shell” over charcoal at Gaido’s.

Opened in 1944, Maceo Spice is a Galveston institution. In addition to the array of spices and sauces perfect for cooking at home, diners will also find a solid menu of sandwiches during lunch. The muffaletta is big enough for two, or go for the Spaisano, which features ham, capocollo, sopressata, provolone, and Maceo’s excellent olive salad on Italian bread.

It might be a bit of a tourist trap, but who can say no to bloody marys and beer by the beach? With five different venues in one space (including a tiki bar!) The Spot is a sort of one stop shop for drinking and dining on the Seawall. Try the po’ boy made with locally caught shrimp, and treat yourself to a giant pitcher of pina coladas.

Open for lunch and brunch, Eatcetera is an essential stop for vegans and gluten-free diners in Galveston. A number of dishes on the menu can be prepared without gluten or meat, like the Thai tofu (or beef) sandwich with daikon radish and sriracha mayo.

Arguably the best beer bar in Galveston, Brews Brothers serves up a selection of their own interesting brews along with a constantly changing list of beers from Texas and beyond, along with crab-stuffed avocado salad and burgers like the Big Tex, topped with thick-cut bacon, barbecue sauce, arugula, and grilled onions.

Candy doesn’t exactly count as a meal, but don’t be surprised to end up eating your weight in La King’s saltwater taffy or pecan logs. This sweet shop has been around for nearly 100 years, and there’s plenty of old-fashioned tradition still in play. Thick shakes and malts are served at the soda fountain, along with more than 20 options of ice cream and frozen yogurt made in house.

Swing by this casual, modern eatery for excellent Gulf seafood that doesn’t require fancy pants. Feast on Gulf red snapper that’s crusted in pecans or blackened, and don’t forget to order a dozen oysters done BLVD style and topped with blackened shrimp, crab, parmesan, and bread crumbs.

Gulf oysters are (obviously) abundant in Galveston, but this bar is a local favorite. In addition to the fresh, well-shucked bivalves, the cooked preparations, like oysters Haelen, topped with crab meat and cheese, are equally stellar.

This upscale Galveston steakhouse features grilled meats and seafood with plenty of South and Central American influence. Ceviche, plantain-crusted Gulf snapper, and a selection of steaks offer a swanky dinner option that is also totally delicious. Pro tip: if you’re headed to Rudy & Paco for dinner, wear pants — shorts are only allowed during lunch and at the bar.

This East End deli is the definition of comforting thanks to its homey blue plate specials, breakfast served all day long, and an assortment of pastries. Trying to cure a hangover? Go for the Smuggler, a deep-fried burrito stuffed with eggs, meat, home fries, jalapeno, and cheese and smothered in chili or sausage gravy.

Located in Galveston’s East End, Smooth Tony’s has been a local favorite for almost 20 years. Definitely order the fish tacos, or keep it light with a fresh fruit smoothie.

This bright and upscale East End restaurant is committed to sourcing local ingredients, like Gulf seafood and Texas wagyu beef. Dig into fried green tomatoes and Gulf snapper with grits and asparagus for dinner, or stop by for brunch when the mimosas are flowing.