Food Traveler Magazine Summer 2013 | Page 30

Seafood Hotspots Alabama’s Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Thirty-two endless miles of sugar white sand and turquoise waters are calling you. Explore the area’s diverse selection of culinary hotspots and authentic cultural activity options. B enefiting from a location on the northern shore of the Gulf of Mexico, chefs in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area take advantage of the freshest local seafood to prepare mouth-watering treats for your taste buds. Couples may wish to park their flip-flops under the table at a charming beachside eatery for a casual meal with a beautiful waterfront view. Or check out the area’s collection of casual fine dining restaurants. Regardless of your preference, the culinary scene of Alabama’s Gulf Coast features authentic local and freshly prepared cuisine found at family 28 FOOD TRAVELER | SUMMER 2013 owned restaurants. Be sure to sample a plate of steamed royal reds during your stay. These cold-water shrimp are only harvested in a few locations, and the Alabama Gulf Coast is fortunate to call this large, lobster-like tasting shrimp a local delicacy. Other inviting local seafood ranges from fresh cobia and grouper to triggerfish, scamp, redfish and speckled trout, just to name a few of the many fish found in the area’s bountiful waters. Most local eateries also offer great wine lists and cocktails to compliment your culinary selections.