Robbie Caponetto
There’s nothing like a delicious meal that truly captures the essence of the place you’re visiting to transport you into vacation mode in no time. In Austin, it could be a breakfast taco drenched in hot sauce, while in New Orleans, a bowl of gumbo or a plate of beignets always hits the spot. And if you’re by the coast, seafood is definitely the way to go. Our readers, who are well acquainted with their local coastal spots, wholeheartedly concur. When they’re at the beach, their top choice for a meal after unpacking the car is a no-frills seafood dive. Whether you fancy your seafood fried to perfection, broiled with a hint of lemon, or steamed with Cajun spices, these beloved restaurants are experts when it comes to serving up a delightful seafood feast. These are the top seafood dives in the South for 2025, as voted by our readers.
To find out more about the South’s Best 2025 Winners and the voting process, a third-party agency called Proof Insights conducted an online survey among Southern Living Consumers, who shared their favorite spots across the South. The survey took place from July 10 to August 21, 2024, and received responses from over 10,000 participants.
10. Middendorf’s
Katherine Kimball
Akers and Slidell, Louisiana
This iconic 90-year-old eatery was established in a quaint fishing village by Josie and Louis Middendorf, who brought her family recipes to life, including their signature dish: Thin Fried Catfish.
middendorfsrestaurant.com; multiple locations
9. The Original Crab Shack
Rachel Lee Studios LLC
Tybee Island, Georgia
Known for its tagline “where the elite eat in their bare feet,” this popular spot offers picturesque waterfront views of the marsh and a lagoon complete with live alligators. Indulge in their generous Low Country Boil and get ready to dig in.
thecrabshack.com; 40 Estill Hammock Road, Tybee Island, GA 31328; 912-786-9857
8. Gnat’s Landing
Courtesy of Gnats Landing
St. Simons Island, Georgia
This charming cottage-style establishment serves up seafood baskets, daily specials, and unique offerings like the $8,000 Margarita, a nod to founder Robert “Boz” Bostock’s dedication to perfecting that drink recipe.
gnatslanding.com; 310 Redfern Village Saint Simons Island, GA 31522; 912-638-7378
7. The Sea Shack
Courtesy of The Sea Shack
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Securing a seat at this bustling counter-service joint may be a challenge, but the wait is worth it for their acclaimed conch fritters, flounder sandwiches, and a wide array of seafood delights.
seash
Here are the rewritten snippets:
1. Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant:
Located in Destin and Navarre, Florida, Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant has a rich history dating back to its founder, Dewey Destin’s great-great-grandfather. The original location is described as a charming “shack on the water.” For more information, visit destinseafood.com.
2. Doc’s Seafood Shack and Oyster Bar:
Situated in Orange Beach, Alabama, Doc’s Seafood Shack and Oyster Bar is a must-visit spot on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Known for serving the “best fried shrimp in the entire civilized world,” it’s a popular dining destination. Find out more at docsseafoodshack.com.
3. The Crab Trap:
Located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, The Crab Trap has been a beloved eatery for over 45 years. Each table features a hole in the middle for easy disposal of oyster shells and shrimp peels, adding to the no-fuss dining experience. Visit thecrabtrapssi.com for additional details.
