“It’s 5 o’clock somewhere,” rings true regardless of the season or the temperature, even when the Alabama Gulf Coast takes on different vibes in the winter. The summer crowds …
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“It’s 5 o’clock somewhere,” rings true regardless of the season or the temperature, even when the Alabama Gulf Coast takes on different vibes in the winter. The summer crowds are gone, but everything is still bustling with winter visitors and locals who take this time to venture to their favorite dining establishments. After a long day of exploring or relaxing, the last thing you want to do is research where to get a cocktail with your pals.
Keeping up with the growing and changing restaurant scene at the beach is a full-time job, so we have put together a list of places to grab a cocktail that you may have missed the last time you visited. This list consists of places that have opened over the last two years.
What: The newest spot to open in Orange Beach, Bolo offers cocktails, steak and seafood in a resort casual atmosphere. Stop in for happy hour every day from 3-5 p.m. and enjoy small plates such as West Indies salad or a charcuterie board. If you want to stay for dinner, try a hand-cut steak or rack of lamb and a glass of red wine.
Where: 27370 Canal Road, Orange Beach
What: Brought to the Alabama Gulf Coast by the owners of the iconic Flora-Bama, CoastAL has a prime location on the shores of Orange Beach to watch the Gulf, enjoy a cocktail and a nibble. CoastAL has something to offer everyone in your party from the young at heart to the energetic child. Enjoy a varied food menu, live music, waterfront and beachfront views, a large lawn, beach boardwalk and retail shopping.
Where: 25722 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach
What: Jesse’s Restaurant in Magnolia Springs has been a Baldwin County staple for many years, and now they have brought their food to the Fort Morgan peninsula. The beautiful restaurant has expansive views of Bon Secour Bay and is in a prime position for sunset viewing and cocktail sipping. The lower floor restaurant, The Cold Hole at Jesse’s On The Bay, offers a more casual dining experience with a smaller menu. Order a strawberry mojito or a banana pudding adult shake (featuring Murder Creek Distillery Banana Pudding Moonshine) to enjoy with their Red Chili Braised Beef Nachos or something from the raw bar. Upstairs in Jesse’s On The Bay main dining room, the menu features an array of fresh Gulf seafood, dry-aged steaks and more to enjoy with your choice cocktail.
What: Lauria’s Italian Bar & Bistro is a new addition to Orange Beach, but you may be familiar with Lauria’s By the Beach in Gulf Shores. Stop in for a cocktail and a charcuterie board, a selection of appetizers or a full Italian meal. Whatever you decide, there is a cocktail or wine to pair with your selection.
Where: 25637 Canal Road, Orange Beach
What: Technically a speakeasy is supposed to be secret, but we are spilling the tea. If you are looking for a fun experience and a good cocktail, head to The Wharf and try to find 8 Reale OBAL. The plush and cozy décor is everything you expect in a secret bar. Stop in and have an old favorite cocktail mixed up or try something new like the spiced apple martini.
Where: 4851 Wharf Parkway, D-112, Orange Beach
Editor note: This article was originally published in the Winter 2024 issue of Beachin' Magazine, a quarterly free publication of Gulf Coast Media. Pick up a copy at racks around the island, at our office, 901 N. McKenzie St., Foley, or read it here: link to e-edition.
