A taste of tradition and innovation

Galveston is known for its laid-back coastal vibe, rich history, and, of course, seafood. However, despite its proximity to the water, not all Galveston restaurants are sourcing fresh Gulf seafood.

In this episode of “Eat Like a Local”, we’re bringing you part one of the crew’s road trip to Galveston in search of the area’s freshest seafood.

Host Chris Shepherd set out to sort out the local spots that are sourcing locally and serving up some of the best dishes in town. His search led him to two must-try spots – one of the oldest restaurants in Houston, Gaido’s Seafood, and one of the newest, The Fancy.

Founded in 1911, Gaido’s remains a family-run restaurant four generations later. Chris sat down with Nick Gaido to learn the history behind the restaurant and how it’s built a name and earned a James Beard award with its fresh, Gulf-to-table seafood like American Red Snapper and Texas-raised Gulf oysters.

Nick explains how the restaurant has thrived for 114 years by staying committed to tradition and quality while adapting to changing times and tastes. With dishes that change with the fresh catch coming from the waters just outside the restaurant and staples like the Pecan Crunch that keep people coming back every year, Chris sees no reason that Gaido’s won’t last another 100 years.

A short trip down the seawall from Gaido’s, Chris finds the Fancy, a one-year-old restaurant tucked inside Hotel Lucine. Here Chris meets Chef Matt Sweeney who’s building a menu of seasonal dishes from what he can source locally. Taking his local approach a step further, Sweeney works not only with local seafood providers, but also one of the few farms on the island, Seeding Galveston, to get the freshest product in Galveston.

With a rotating menu of Gulf seafood, Texas-raised beef and Galveston producer, Chris says he’ll drive the 50 minutes from Montrose to Galveston just to eat here.

Galveston is home to hundreds of restaurants, so these aren’t the only Chris found on the island. Watch the episode for the hidden gem Chris stumbles upon for the perfect morning pick me up (Good Dough) — and stay tuned for part two of the crew’s Galveston adventure next week!

Season 2 of “Eat Like a Local”