Red or White | Mobile
The covered outdoor seating area at Red or White offers privacy from Dauphin Street and a charming space to enjoy a delicious meal from decorated chef Arwen Rice. While the wood-fired Margherita pizza is a favorite among guests, another popular choice is one of Red or White’s hearty charcuterie boards—a suitable partner for a curated wine. Choose from over a dozen wines by the glass or peruse the expansive wine selection and find a bottle to enjoy at the table.
Red or White • 1104 Dauphin St. 251-478-9494
Heroes | Mobile
If you’re looking for a good place to catch the big game, Heroes Sports Bar & Grille is the destination. Heroes’ West Mobile location features a large covered patio and fenced-in outdoor space complete with picnic tables, lawn games and plenty of space for the kids to play. Make sure you order the Spinach and Crawfish Dip appetizer – it’s a must for the table!
Heroes Sports Bar & Grille (West Mobile) • 36 Hillcrest Road. 251-341-9464
Via Emilia | Mobile
Experience the authentic tastes of the Italian countryside just off Old Shell Road. Every dish served at Via Emilia is rich with the freshness and flavor of locally sourced ingredients. The wide selection of wines acts as a tasteful complement to anything on their thoughtfully crafted menu. Via Emilia has a variety of outdoor seating options perfect for a fall date night, including a covered patio area with cozy bistro tables and a tranquil koi pond.
Via Emilia • 5901 Old Shell Rd. 251-342-3677
Greer’s St. Louis Market | Mobile
Greer’s St. Louis Market is more than just a grocery store—it’s a one-stop shop for fresh local eats including in-house prepared meals, a soup bar, hot bar, coffee bar and deli plus ice cream from Cammie’s Old Dutch, cold beverages from local breweries and sushi made fresh daily. Grab a bite and enjoy happy hour up on the rooftop for an incredible view of Downtown Mobile.
Greer’s St. Louis Market • 260 St. Louis St. 251-305-4215
Squid Ink | Mobile
Squid Ink is the first of three different restaurants by Chef “Panini” Pete Blohme to appear in this list, and for good reason. It’s impossible to miss Squid Ink from the street thanks to the outdoor swing chairs, a fun way to dine in the fresh air regardless of age. Squid Ink’s menu perfectly complements the restaurant’s eclectic vibe with an innovative fusion of unexpected flavors. The Bao Buns—which include Tuna Poke Bao, Mobtown Bao and Chicken Bhan Mi Bao—are a fan-favorite as well as the Cadillac Burger and Spanish S.O.S. (Squid on a Shingle).
Squid Ink Eclectic Eats & Drinks • 102 Dauphin St. 251-405-0031
Front Yard Tacos | Mobile
Front Yard Tacos sits directly beside Nova Espresso under a shady canopy of lush trees. The taco truck puts a fresh spin on a timeless classic, serving up big bold flavors that even Food Network’s Guy Fieri had to taste for himself. These aren’t your classic beef or chicken tacos. We’re talking Carne Asada, Buffalo Chicken, Spam and a don’t-knock-it-until-you try-it Brussels sprouts, egg and cheese taco. Order a variety, grab a picnic table on the lawn and chow down.
Front Yard Tacos • 306 St Anthony St. 251-287-1379
Sunset Pointe | Fairhope
In addition to exceptional food and drinks, Pete Blohme’s Sunset Pointe serves up some of the most incredible sunsets anywhere along the Gulf Coast. A welcoming fire pit anchors the outdoor seating area, and a mariner’s bell hangs in wait for its nightly tolling, celebrating another stunning sunset. While you wait for the sun to do its thing, try acclaimed menu options like the Eastern Shore Bouillabaisse or Gulf Snapper Throats—then, wash it all down with a refreshing craft cocktail.
Sunset Pointe • 831 N Section St., Fairhope. 251-990-7766
The Hummingbird Way Oyster Bar | Mobile
Tucked away in the heart of the Oakleigh Garden District sits The Hummingbird Way Oyster Bar. The menu from Chef Jim Smith features delectable options like the Alabama Blue Crab Cake, Biscuit Service and—as its name would suggest—several varieties of fresh oysters. Outside, the patio is a serene area to unwind, complete with string lights overhead that give off a charming, warm glow. Each table’s soft candlelight cultivates a romantic ambiance perfect for a fall date night. Better make that reservation now!
The Hummingbird Way Oyster Bar • 351 George St. 251-408-9562
The Cheese Cottage | Mobile
Housed in a former 1900s-era filling station, The Cheese Cottage is the place to be for, well, all things cheese. Choose from a variety of charcuterie boards consisting of curated seasonal fruits, preserves, nuts, cheeses, meats and local artisanal favorites. Still hungry? The menu also includes a selection of sandwiches, salads, pizzas and soups to satisfy any palate, cheese enthusiast or not. Snag a table on the front patio or under the covered pavilion and enjoy the cooler temps.
The Cheese Cottage • 650 St. Louis St. 251-232-2645
Loda Bier Garten | Mobile
Loda Bier Garten lives up to its name with over 100 beers on tap, offering a wide selection from breweries near and far. The menu boasts an impressive lineup of creative burgers, including the famous Sugar Rush Burger comprised of slab bacon, cheddar cheese and homemade BBQ sauce topped with caramelized onions and nestled between two Sugar Rush glazed doughnuts. Loda’s outdoor seating area is accented by dynamic murals and good music, making any one of the brightly colored picnic tables the best seat in the house.
Loda Bier Garten • 251 Dauphin St. 251-287-6871
The Fairhope Inn | Fairhope
Beautiful scenery, upscale dining and elegant lodging: The Fairhope Inn has it all. Take in the sights and sounds of downtown Fairhope from the picturesque courtyard or grab a table on the wraparound porch. The inn’s rotating seasonal menu focuses on fresh ingredients and unique flavors. Expect New Orleans-style dishes with a Fairhope finish. Lunch and dinner are served Thursday – Saturday, and brunch is served on Sundays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Fairhope Inn • 63 S Church St., Fairhope. 251-928-6226
Panini Pete’s | Fairhope
When paninis, beignets and a chef named “Pete” all come together, you get one of Fairhope’s most iconic eateries. Chef Pete Blohme’s sandwich shop first made a name for itself when its “Muffaletta” Panini landed on the official list of the top 100 things to eat in Alabama, and again when Guy Fieri had nothing but high praise for the House Roasted Turkey. As if the top-notch sandwiches weren’t enough, Pete’s made-from-scratch beignets are the ultimate sweet finish (especially with a squeeze of lemon on top). Located in Fairhope’s charming French Quarter, Panini Pete’s quaint courtyard is a hot commodity when the weather gets cool. Make sure you go early!
Panini Pete’s • 42 S Section St., Fairhope. 251-929-0122
Dragonfly Food Bar | Fairhope
If a perfect fall day beckons you outside, grab a spot on the front patio at Dragonfly Food Bar. The umbrellas cast just enough shade during the day, and warm-white string lights give off an ethereal glow in the evenings. The menu is packed with bold flavors with dishes ranging from fusion tacos and Asian-style bowls to sweet and spicy tapas. If you’re looking for fine dining quality in a casual setting, Dragonfly is definitely the place to go.
Dragonfly Food Bar • 18874 Section St, Fairhope. 251-990-5722
The Hope Farm | Fairhope
When The Hope Farm put down roots in Fairhope, it redefined elevated dining. Their farm-to-table concept ensures that each item on the menu is fresh, sourced directly from hydroponic farms and raised beds on the property. The courtyard is a favorite gathering spot for patrons, offering a variety of seating options for enjoying live music, good conversation and even better food. Before you dig into the main course, order the Mushroom Toast as a starter for the table. There’s a reason it’s a fan favorite!
The Hope Farm • 915 Nichols Avenue, Fairhope. 251-340-3276
Kingfisher Seafood Restaurant | Fairhope
The tastes of Louisiana have taken up residence in Fairhope! Kingfisher seeks to transport guests from bay to bayou with a repertoire of striking flavors and fresh Gulf seafood. Menu favorites include the crispy Andouille Encrusted Fish and decadent Crawfish Etouffee. Sprawling oaks add a picturesque backdrop to the covered outdoor seating area. Take advantage of Kingfisher’s proximity to the bay with a brief stroll after a delicious meal—a great chance to soak up fall’s first rays.
Kingfisher Seafood Restaurant • 805 S Mobile St, Fairhope. 251-383-4430
The Carriage Wine & Market | Dauphin Island
As the summer – and tourist season – winds to a close, there is no better time to enjoy the tranquil beauty of Dauphin Island. If a view of the Gulf’s sparkling waters and mimosa sunsets sounds like the ideal way to end your evening, then you’ll fall in love with The Carriage. Elevated deck seating provides picturesque views of the island in a relaxed, pet-friendly atmosphere. Sip on a glass of wine or a cocktail from the seasonal menu and indulge in tasty bites, such as the Mini Crab Cakes with zesty Cajun remoulade. Bistro, wine bar and specialty grocery market all in one, this delightful addition to the island is here to make beach days better than ever.
The Carriage Wine & Market • 1522 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island. 313-2152
Ash & Oak Wood Fired Pizza | Mobile
Ash & Oak Wood Fired Pizza is the tastiest new addition to the Leinkauf Historic District, serving up ultra-creative wood-fired slices in a funky, laidback atmosphere. Whether you go with classic pepperoni or the more unconventional broccoli cheddar, be sure to take your pie outside. Bright furniture, fun decor and rows of string lights make the courtyard the perfect spot for a fun night out.
Ash & Oak Wood Fired Pizza • 1455 Monroe St. 251-219-0439
Bluegill Restaurant | Causeway
Since 1958, Bluegill has been an iconic staple of Causeway dining. The seafood is fresh, the water views are incredible and live music out on the deck never disappoints. Chow down on fried green tomatoes, gumbo, and of course, their Famous Flaming Oysters cooked to buttery cheesy perfection.
Bluegill Restaurant • 3775 Battleship Pkwy, Spanish Fort. 251-625-1998
The Blind Tiger | Fairhope
Cruise up to the marina, tie off the boat and stroll down Fairhope Pier for beachy vibes and great bites at The Blind Tiger. Regulars rave about the BBQ shrimp, cooked in a rich NOLA butter sauce and served with crusty bread for dipping. Find a spot under one of the umbrella-covered tables, kick back with a bushwacker and enjoy the ambiance of the Fairhope Pier.
The Blind Tiger • 1 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope. 251-442-4008
Bayside Grill at The Grand Hotel | Fairhope
Bayside Grill is a family favorite for Grand Hotel guests, offering an approachable menu of burgers, salads, pizzas, pasta and more. Enjoy your meal outside on the patio while the kids play games on the lawn and you enjoy the gorgeous view of the Bay.
Bayside Grill at The Grand Hotel • 17855 Scenic Hwy 98, Fairhope.
