Corpus Christi is known as the Sparkling City by the Sea, and it lives up to its name. In addition to its coastal attractions, you'll find a diverse and robust culinary scene. There’s classic American and Texan barbecue, of course, but you might find the other eateries in this town a bit more surprising.

To experience the best that this area has to offer, you'll need to learn how to eat like a local. Here are some of the places locals love to eat in Corpus Christi.

  • 1

    Snoopy's Pier

    A seafront restaurant with its own breeding facilities

    Snoopy's Pier
    • Food

    Snoopy's Pier is an open-air restaurant settled right on the water, so you can enjoy the warm sun and delicious seafood. The food here is always fresh and crafted with care as this place features its own shrimp breeding facility and on-site fish house.

    The offerings at Snoopy's Pier are especially good for families and groups as there are plenty of seafood baskets to try at reasonable prices. Don't forget to check out their craft brew list, as well.

    Location: 13313 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA

    Open: Daily from 11 am to 10 pm

    Phone: +1 361-949-8815

    Map
  • 2

    Doc's Seafood and Steaks

    Excellent surf and turf with even better views

    Doc's Seafood and Steaks
    • Couples
    • Food
    • Nightlife

    Doc's Seafood and Steaks is nestled comfortably under the JFK Memorial Causeway and overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway, so you can enjoy scenic waterfront dining. In fact, the coast here faces west, so it's one of the best restaurants in town for getting picturesque views of the sunset.

    The food itself is positively American, with classic surf and turf fare all made with fresh ingredients. You'll even find local artists performing live music regularly on the lower floor, which is a great place for a few after-dinner drinks.

    Location: 13309 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA

    Open: Sunday–Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, Friday–Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm

    Phone: +1 361-949-6744

    Map
  • 3

    Republic of Texas Bar and Grill

    A romantic steak and wine restaurant 20 floors up

    Republic of Texas Bar and Grill
    • Couples
    • Food
    • Luxury

    There's nothing quite as Texan as the Republic of Texas Bar and Grill. You'll find all the elegance of a fine-dining restaurant right alongside the mastery of steak, wild game, and seafood you'd expect from a Texas chef who's a master of the craft.

    Part of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, set on the 20th floor of Bayfront Tower, the Republic of Texas offers scenic views of the city and prime beef cuts. Their wine list is quite extensive as well, so this particular restaurant is a favourite spot for couples looking for a romantic evening in town.

    Location: 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

    Open: Wednesday–Saturday from 5.30 pm to 10.30 pm (closed Sunday–Tuesday)

    Map
  • 4

    Andy's Kitchen

    Free muffins!

    Andy's Kitchen
    • Families
    • Food

    Andy's Kitchen takes Texas comfort food to the next level. At this diner-style restaurant, you can enjoy all-day breakfast along with more traditional American dishes, with a few Mexican-inspired options as well. There are even some gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available.

    You get complimentary blueberry muffins delivered while the friendly server is taking your drinks order and, when the food starts coming, the portions are very generous. This is definitely the place to come if you've got an appetite.

    Location: 5802 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78413, USA

    Open: Daily 6 am to 2.30 pm

    Phone: +1 361-993-0251

    Map
  • 5

    Hester's Cafe and Coffee Shop

    A great place to start your day in Corpus Christi

    Hester's Cafe and Coffee Shop
    • Food

    Located in Lamar Park, Hester's Cafe and Coffee Bar is your one-stop-shop for delicious coffee and satisfying baked goods. Their paninis are their speciality, but you'll also find exquisite salads and sandwiches on offer.

    The coffee available is some of the best in the city, so it's one of the top places in town to start your morning. There's outdoor seating available, so you can enjoy the sunny Corpus Christi skies while you drink your coffee or enjoy a sweet treat.

    Location: 1902 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

    Open: Tuesday–Friday from 11 am to 3 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm (closed Sunday–Monday)

    Phone: +1 361-885-0151

    Map
  • 6

    Harrison's Landing

    High-end dining by and on the sea

    Harrison's Landing
    • Food
    • Luxury

    At Harrison's Landing, a satisfying restaurant and bar is just one of the attractions. This fascinating destination also features opportunities for shopping and even sailing. There's a floating tiki bar with a wide variety of drinks, and you can embark on a captained sailing charter to take a cruise around the water for dinner and a tour.

    The food itself is high-end American fare with a focus on seafood and burgers. Their craft beer and wine selections are extensive, and they can even make pairing recommendations based on what you ordered.

    Location: 108 Peoples T-Head Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

    Open: Sunday, Wednesday–Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, Friday–Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm

    Phone: +1 361-881-8503

    Map
  • 7

    Black Sheep Bistro

    Modern cuisine in a traditional setting

    Black Sheep Bistro
    • Food

    Black Sheep Bistro is a curiously decorated restaurant offering state-of-the-art American and seafood cuisine. Dark colours reign supreme in this restaurant's interior, with black ceilings, dark wood tones on the tables, and deep reds and browns on the walls adorned with the heads of deer and bison, along with displayed fish.

    The food itself is downright delicious, whether you're looking for fish, steak, or chicken. The Saturday steak specials are great and the seafood pasta dishes are worth a look. There are even spirits on offer – perfect for a pairing.

    Location: 15201 S Padre Island Dr #120, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA

    Open: Wednesday–Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm, Monday from 5 pm to 10 pm (closed on Sundays and Tuesdays)

    Phone: +1 210-418-4819

    Map
  • 8

    Ol' Steakhouse Co.

    There's a lot more than just steak to enjoy

    Ol' Steakhouse Co.
    • Couples
    • Families
    • Food
    • Nightlife

    Ol' Steakhouse Co. offers supreme high-grade steaks in a family-friendly environment. In fact, this restaurant is a bit of a jack of all trades as it's suitable for romantic dates, a family outing, and even happy hour with friends.

    In addition to steak, you'll find burgers, sandwiches, salads, wings, and so much more. There are even a few televisions around, so you can stop by, grab a drink, and watch the game. Essentially, you can find satisfaction here no matter what kind of experience you're looking for.

    Location: 4307 Avalon St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA

    Open: Daily from 11 am to 9 pm

    Phone: +1 361-992-7731

    Map
  • 9

    Executive Surf Club

    One of Corpus Christi's best happy hours

    Executive Surf Club
    • Food
    • Nightlife

    The Executive Surf Club is a great place to relax at the end of a busy day. Happy hour here is legendary around Corpus Christi, with more beer on tap than any other establishment in the city. Additionally, they feature local musicians playing live music most nights, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. You can always opt to sit in the patio area if you're looking to enjoy the outdoors, or if you want to bring your dog along.

    Foodwise, it's pretty typical beach club fare. Expect great burgers, nachos, and seafood.

    Location: 306 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

    Open: Sunday–Thursday from 11 am to 11 pm, Friday–Saturday from 11 am to midnight

    Phone: +1 361-884-7873

    Map
  • 10

    Kuzina Lebanese Grill

    A fresh taste of something different

    Kuzina Lebanese Grill
    • Food

    Kuzina Lebanese Grill features a unique selection of Levantine and Mediterranean cuisine. Every item on the menu, from the shawarma to the kabab, is homemade and fresh without using any preservatives, and it's all halal.

    The primary focus here is authenticity and freshness, as the Lebanese chef here has spent more than 15 years honing their craft to perfection. Standout dishes include the hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, and tabouli. Note that alcohol is not available for purchase here, though you can bring your own.

    Location: 3801 Saratoga Blvd STE 113, Corpus Christi, TX 78415, USA

    Open: Tuesday–Saturday from 11.30 am to 8.30 pm, Sunday from noon to 6 pm (closed on Mondays)

    Phone: +1 361-452-2301

    Map