Fairhope, Alabama, is a charming Southern town by the beautiful Mobile Bay with a vibrant culinary scene. Known for its picturesque natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming, family-friendly community, Fairhope offers a variety of tasty options that cater to every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a gourmet Gulf Coast experience, our small Baldwin County town has something to delight your taste buds.

Fairhope, AL, has a diverse restaurant landscape that reflects our town's rich cultural tapestry. From fresh seafood, pizza, and Southern comfort fare to international cuisine and artisanal treats, the town's restaurants (with live music and chef-driven menus) capture the essence of tradition and innovation. And this is just the beginning! Here are our top picks for the best places to eat in Fairhope, each offering a unique flavor and unforgettable experience. Fairhope has many chef-driven menus focused on outstanding, local seafood (and more) that appeals to even the harshest food critics.

10 Best Places to Eat in Fairhope, AL: Our Picks

Choosing good places to eat in Fairhope, AL, can be a delightful challenge, given the large selection of fantastic options here. To help you decide where to eat in Fairhope, AL, for excellent service and delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, we've curated a list of our all time favorites that highlight the best of Fairhope's culinary offerings. Each restaurant on this list in Fairhope, AL, not only serves delicious food but also embodies our eastern shore town's warm, family-friendly, inviting spirit.

1. Locals Bar and Restaurant

Locals on Fairhope Ave. is one of the best places to eat in Fairhope, Alabama, for lunch or dinner because of its friendly staff, exceptional service, fresh Southern food made by skilled chefs, live music, convenient indoor and outdoor seating options, and incredible views!

This beloved burger, pizza, and Southern fare restaurant captures the heart of Fairhope, Alabama, with its family-friendly, casual atmosphere and delicious farm-to-table fare. With fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Locals' lunch and dinner menus offer a lighter take on these classic Southern and seaside foods:

• Gulf Shrimp and Grits (+ many other great seafood options)
• Build Your Own Burger
• Desserts: Tiramisu, carrot cake, key lime pie
• Made-to-order bacon (+ other meats), fresh fish, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and sauce
• Great kids menu
• Top-notch sides like mashed potatoes du jour, pink hull pea salad, soup, and french fries.

2. Nini Squares

Nini Squares on Magnolia Fairhope is a charming spot known for its cozy atmosphere, unique square pizzas, artisanal sandwiches, and a variety of beer and wine. The pizza dough is perfectly crisp, topped with the customer's choice from their large selection of ingredients that appeal to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters. This charming eatery is one of our favorite places to eat in downtown Fairhope with friends and family for superior flavor and quality food.

3. Bill-E's

If you're looking for casual restaurants that offer an authentic taste of the South, look no further than Bill-E's in Fairhope, Alabama! Famous for its signature bacon, Southern roots, and Fairhope hospitality, Bill-E's offers a menu that celebrates local flavors with a twist. From each mouth-watering burger to their perfectly smoked sandwich meats, each menu item is crafted with care and a touch of love. It's the kind of place to dine where you'll feel right at home, surrounded by good eats, fun, and friendly faces.

4. Big Daddy's Grill

Big Daddy's Grill on Section St. in Fairhope, Alabama, offers a quintessentially Fairhope dining experience with its waterfront location and relaxed vibe. Known for its great selection of Gulf Coast seafood, fried chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and hearty Southern dishes, Big Daddy's is perfect for enjoying a laid-back meal and enjoying the picturesque ambiance of the stunning Mobile Bay views with your family. It's one of our top places to eat lunch in Fairhope, AL. And it's not too shabby as a dinner destination to boot! Enjoying a plate of shrimp and grits while watching the sunset over the water is an experience you won't want to miss.

5. Dragonfly Foodbar

Dragonfly Food Bar on Section St. is a casual restaurant where creativity meets cuisine. This popular spot with outdoor seating options serves up an array of globally-inspired dishes with a twist of the owners' Southern roots, making every meal an adventure. From their breakfast menu's inventive tacos (that you can choose to top with gulf shrimp) to their flavorful rice bowls, this family-friendly restaurant is the perfect place for those looking to try something new and exciting in a casual, fun environment.

6. Lickin' Good Donuts

This isn't the place to dine full-course meals, but a Fairhope food tour isn't complete without stopping by Lickin' Good Donuts. This local breakfast favorite is renowned by locals for its freshly made donuts that are as delicious as they are photogenic. With a variety of classic and innovative flavors, Lickin' Good Donuts offers a sweet start to your morning or a delightful treat any time of day.

7. District Hall

District Hall restaurant on Nichols Avenue combines casual modern dining with historic charm, offering a menu that features elevated Southern classics and Build-Your-Own Pizza. Each dish is crafted with attention to detail, using high-quality ingredients highlighting the region's bounty. Whether you're in for a leisurely lunch or an elegant dinner, District Hall provides a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience.

8. The Sunflower Cafe

(Here's Where to Eat in Fairhope, Alabama, for Those with Unique Dietary Needs)

The Sunflower Cafe in the Eastern Shore Shop Ctr. off Prospect Avenue. in Fairhope, Alabama, is a delightful spot emphasizing quality, wholesome local grub. With a focus on vegan and vegetarian options, this cafe offers a refreshing alternative to traditional Southern restaurants. The bright, cheerful ambiance and the vibrant, flavorful menu—with stellar selections like breakfast tacos, falafel wraps, hummus with vegetables, salad, traditional American cuisine, shrimp po boy sandwiches, and more—make it a favorite among health-conscious diners and anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal.

9. Sushi Master Joe's

Sushi Master Joe's brings a taste of Japan to Fairhope, Alabama, offering an array of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese delicacies. The chef's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to fresh ingredients ensure an authentic and exquisite dining experience. This popular spot is perfect for sushi lovers or anyone looking to indulge in beautifully crafted Japanese cuisine.

10. Provision

Provision is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary hub that includes a market, a wine bar, and a dining area. The menu features a mix of classic and contemporary dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Whether grabbing sandwiches, shopping for gourmet products, or enjoying a leisurely meal, Provision offers a unique and versatile dining experience that reflects the best food culture here in Fairhope, Alabama.

A Message From The Fairhope Store

Exploring the vibrant food scene here in Fairhope, Alabama, is just one of the many joys of living in our charming town. We at the Fairhope Store are thrilled to share these restaurants with you in this blog. As you savor the flavors and experiences the South offers, we invite you to visit our store down by the pier. Discover our carefully curated selection of local products, unique gifts, our line of cute and comfy merchandise with designs embracing all walks of bay life, and more. We also offer bike rentals!

Whether you're a longtime resident of Fairhope, Alabama, or a curious visitor, the Fairhope Store always has something new and exciting to explore. Come visit and say hello to our friendly staff; we're here to welcome you to our beautiful community.