
Five Off-the-Beaten-Path Eateries That Locals Love
This is the final blog in our three-part locals’ favorites series.
Sometimes it’s nice to take a drive off-the-beaten-path for a meal while on vacation. Along the Alabama Gulf Coast, there are several secret spots that locals love for a good meal, a cold beverage and a quiet meal.

1. Jesse’s Restaurant
“Let’s go for a drive, honey!” During your next beach vacation, take a short drive to the quaint and quintessential town of Magnolia Springs for a date night at Jesse’s Restaurant. On their menu, you’ll find dry and wet-aged steaks, fresh local seafood and other signature entrees, as well as an extensive wine and cocktail menu.
2. Bar 45
One Club in Gulf Shores is a large apartment and vacation rental complex with golf course access, a pool and more. Within their community, there’s also Bar 45. Open to the public, they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with happy hour starting at 3 pm. They have live music, trivia nights, dancing and other weekly events that attract locals and visitors. Stop by for a meal or a beer when you’re in the area.
3. Tacky Jacks 2 – Fort Morgan
With three locations on the island, Tacky Jacks is a staple on the Alabama Gulf Coast. But, if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle in town, stop by Tacky Jacks 2 in Fort Morgan for breakfast, lunch or dinner. This location has the same menu as their other locations, offers uninterrupted views of Mobile Bay and is just a mile away from Historic Fort Morgan. Guests can also come by boat as the restaurant has plenty of boat parking available.

4. The Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar
In nearby Bon Secour sits another local favorite – The Tin Top. This spot serves up award-winning seafood, baked oysters and mouth-watering steaks. Their menu has a New Orleans, Southern Coastal flare that’s sure to please anybody’s taste buds. And, while their kitchen may be small, the dishes they serve are some of the best on the Alabama Gulf Coast.
5. Sassy Bass Island Grill
Beach views, boutique oysters and hand-crafted cocktails…it’s no wonder locals love Sassy Bass Island Grill in Gulf Shores. On their menu, you’ll find everything from fresh-squeezed juices and homemade donuts for breakfast, to conch patties, fried tomatoes and Gulf seafood for lunch and dinner.
Where are your favorite off-the-beaten-path places to dine when in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? Please share them with us on social at @VisitALBeaches.