Shrimp n Stuff on the Island

Anamaris Cousins Price

Fish tacos at Shrimp & Stuff

It's summer, and crazy-hot in the Houston area. What can you do to find a bit of relief? Hop on I-45 and head south to Galveston Island, walk along the Seawall, hit the historic homes or Moody Gardens, then stop for some seafood at Shrimp n Stuff.

Located at 3901 Avenue O (at 39th Street), Shrimp n Stuff has been serving up fresh and budget-friendly seafood since 1976, when Jim Bennett started this neighborhood favorite. Current owner Jeff Antonelli has kept things the same way; as he says, "I inherited good stuff, no need to change any of it."

There's both indoor and patio seating; the four of us opted for a cozy table inside where we wouldn't melt. My in-laws had touted the gumbo, which was okay, but too heavy on the okra for my taste. I wanted to try a bit of everything and ordered a seafood platter. The cornmeal battered catfish was just right, and I enjoyed the shrimp and oysters. But my favorite was the crab balls. They looked like giant hush puppies, meaty and creamy on the inside.

Anamaris Cousins Price

Shrimp & Stuff in Galveston, TX

Another hit at our table was the fish tacos, golden-fried catfish dressed with black bean relish and topped with secret remoulade sauce. Both my husband and brother-in-law enjoyed them to the last bite.

Shrimp n Stuff is famous for its poboys, particularly the shrimp and/or oyster ones, and they're all under $6. I also saw some impressive seafood salads on neighboring tables. We were on our way to a graduation at Moody Gardens, so we skipped the alcohol, but they offer beer and wine for as little as $2.77.

Be sure to pay Shrimp n Stuff a visit next time you cross the bridge. Whether you eat in or take advantage of the drive-thru, you'll be pleased.

What are your old-time favorites? I'd love to visit them.

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