Spring break y’all. It’s time to forget class, gym, work, papers, exams and bank accounts, and wildly descend upon the coast. Our march requires sustenance! Moving west to east, here are a few places of interest down in the Gulf.
Mobile, Alabama – Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe
You’ve worked since New Year’s for this. Beach body intact for the week, it’s time to reward yourself. Anyone passing through Mobile on their way to the beach needs to stop at this place, which boasts over 47 different ice cream flavors all homemade on-site. This is the best ice cream I’ve ever had. This ice cream is worth getting fat on. I highly recommend trying rocky road or lemon custard.
Gulf Shores, Alabama – Papa Rocco’s
Anybody in Gulf Shores for the week is required to eat at Papa Rocco’s as often as possible. They have ice-cold beer and free live entertainment every night of the week, plus the seafood pizza (shrimp, scallops, alfredo) is heaven on a crust. You should also look out for their oysters. Raw or baked, you can’t go wrong. A half-dozen Oysters Rockefeller, a half dozen Oysters Parmesan, descend into food coma, dream happy.
Pensacola and Destin, Florida – McGuire’s Irish Pub
Considering St. Patrick’s Day falls during spring break this year, I would be remiss if I didn’t suggest at least one “Irish Pub.” So here’s one that has two locations. Both locations unsurprisingly feature dark stained wood and brass, live music, big crowds, big menus, big portions and signed $1 bill covered walls. It’s not your grandpa’s neighborhood pub back in Galway. But the food is awesome: burgers, steaks, shepherd’s pie, corned beef, fried mashed potato balls and more. On top of that, they brew their own line of tasty draft beers on-site and have a very affordably-priced bar featuring all the usual suspects. The logo reads, “Feasting, Imbibing, & Debauchery.” Sound like a good time?
Panama City Beach, Florida – Diego’s Burrito Factory and Finn’s Island Grub
Those of you headed to Panama City get a two-for-one:
Diego’s Burrito Factory is simply a local beachside Chipotle where it’s acceptable to order a margarita. It’s open late every night.
Finn’s Island Grub is for the morning or afternoon after. You should ritually eat at either location (downtown or on the beach). Finn’s is a food truck/shack open for breakfast and lunch that specializes in fresh, local fish and shrimp tacos. Eat them, and then set out to conquer the day. They also have nachos, burritos, quesadillas, ceviche and a breakfast menu providing all the fried eggs and melted cheese you need for recovery. But seriously, get the tacos.
