1. anything but shrimpy
The El Matador shrimp app spices up any meal. Four jumbo Gulf shrimp are stuffed with Gouda cheese and jalapeños before being wrapped in delicious bacon. Served atop a jicama slaw with a jalapeño and red wine vinegar topping, this dish is a zesty, citrusy delight.
Fuego • 2066 Old Shell Rd. 378-8619
2. get a piece of the pie
Looking for a sweet and savory dessert? Try Bill E. Stitt’s famous bacon-wrapped sweet potato pie, above. A sweet potato, cinnamon and brown sugar filling is loaded into a flaky crust, sealed with a fork all the way around and wrapped in house-cured bacon. It’s dropped into the deep fryer and comes out with a crispy exterior and sinfully gooey center.
Old 27 Grill • 19992 AL-181, Fairhope. 281-2663
3. grilled cheese to the extreme
Stevie’s turns a classic into a masterpiece. This sammie combines Boar’s Head provolone, Swiss and American cheeses for a delectably rich flavor. Loaded onto grilled sourdough bread, then grilled again, it comes out with a satisfying crunchy exterior. Add on bacon for a crispy treat.
Stevie’s Kitchen • 41 W. I-65 Service Road North #150. 287-2791.
4. high steaks
Certified Angus beef filet mignon is wrapped in strips of sinful, smoked, black pepper bacon and grilled on pecan wood for a satisfying carnivorous meal.
Wolf Bay Lodge • 20801 Miflin Rd., Foley. 987-5129
5. a pearl of a dish
What could be better than a combo of two of Lower Alabama’s favorite ingredients: oysters and bacon? The Bienville oysters are topped with herbs, Gulf shrimp, crab, bacon and breadcrumbs before being baked. It’s all sprinkled with Parmesan, making a pleasant app for all.
Half Shell Oyster House • 3654 Airport Blvd. 338-9350
text by Chelsea Wallace adams • photo by wendy wilson
