September 2026: 3 Local Restaurant Dishes to Try

The Ox Burger from Ox Kitchen tops this month's list of local restaurant dishes our food contributors cannot stop raving about.

The Ox Burger from Ox Kitchen // Photo by Elizabeth Gelineau

The Ox Burger at Ox Kitchen

“If you’re looking for a casual Fairhope spot that consistently delivers flavor without trying too hard, Ox Kitchen deserves a spot on your list. It’s casual, but the quality stands out. My personal favorite is the Ox Burger. It’s flavorful, satisfying and exactly what you want from a good local burger. American cheese, pickles, mayo, shredded lettuce and tomato are topped with gravy and all pair well with a well-seasoned patty. It’s done right without being overcomplicated.” – Patrice Godfrey, Founder & Creative Director, Candles and Creams

Ox Kitchen • 365 S Greeno Road, Fairhope. 725-9385

Fried Crab Claws at Lighthouse Restaurant

“There’s something special about a restaurant that’s been doing things the right way for years, and Lighthouse Restaurant in Bayou La Batre is one of those places. If you’re going for the first time, order the fried crab claws. They’re the standout dish and exactly what I look forward to every time. Fresh, perfectly fried and full of flavor, they’re the most delicate thing you’ve ever consumed. Just as memorable as the food is the hospitality. The staff is friendly, welcoming and attentive, making every guest feel like a regular.” – Jimmy Marston, Chief Commercial Officer, Gulf Distributing Holdings, LLC 

Lighthouse Restaurant • 12495 Padgett Switch Road, Irvington. 824-2500

Seafood Gumbo at Chuck’s Fish

“One would think Jimmy Buffett’s favorite food would be a cheeseburger in paradise, but fun fact: it was actually gumbo! I’d like to think that the seafood gumbo teeming with shrimp, fish, okra and white rice at Chuck’s Fish in downtown Mobile would easily be a favorite of his. Leave the salt shaker lost because there’s a deep richness to the roux in this dish, and the seasoning is perfection — and this native Louisiana girl knows gumbo!” – Quin Bixler, MD, OBGYN, Mobile Bay OBGYN Center / Co-Founder, In Full Bloom, MD

Chuck’s Fish • 551 Dauphin St., Mobile. 219-7051

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