Gaido's

Gaido's has been a Galveston landmark since 1911. People don't come for the atmosphere--they come for the freshest seafood around. The mix of locals and tourists never tire of the ocean views, and the staff is attentive and well-versed about the expansive menu.

The kitchen obtains the freshest seafood from local fishermen and around the globe. Creamy bisque has tasty flecks of shrimp, and oysters are plump and neatly shucked. Lump crab is rich as lobster and chunky enough to eat with a fork. Blackened red snapper is flaky, not fishy. Oysters Rockefeller is topped with jalapeno sauce and lightly baked, without a hint of runniness. For a break from seafood, try amazingly tender filet mignon. Crustless pecan pie makes the perfect end to the meal.  Entrees can be ordered a la carte or as a complete meal, with gumbo, bisque, soup or raw oysters, plus a dinner salad, vegetable and dessert.

The restaurant does not take reservations and is closed on Sundays.

The Pelican Club, which takes reservations, is the restaurant's special-occasion dining room, dressed up with white-linen tables.

Never been to Gaido's before? Just look for the giant blue crab adorning the restaurant.