3 Best Restaurants in Biloxi, Mississippi

Opened in 2011 inside a retrofitted historic bank building one block off Highway 90, this popular Gulf-view restaurant has earned rave reviews and loyal fans for its charbroiled oysters, the signature menu item. With a distinctly New Orleans architectural vibe, the Half Shell Oyster House features a similarly flavored creole menu of oysters prepared six ways, plus fish, chicken, pasta, burgers, and steaks—with or without a kick. Reservations are not accepted from 6 pm–8 pm on weekends to leave room for walk-ins. Guys: check out the oyster-shell walls in the upstairs men's room.

Three generations of family tradition have made Mary Mahoney's an iconic dining destination for Mississippi coastal travelers who love not only the food, but also the atmosphere of this former French home, built in 1737. Only minutes from the commercial marina, the restaurant specializes in fresh Gulf of Mexico seafood, although a selection of high-quality grilled meats is also available. Calorie-conscious, naked versions of boiled or broiled seafood are available, but Mary Mahoney's is best known for dishes fully clothed in heavy sauces with butter, cream, and cheese. Your best bet is to budget a calorie splurge, then enjoy it! Leave room for bread pudding with rum sauce for dessert. You can buy the seafood gumbo by the gallon, shipped by special two-day rate with FedEx.

Renowned as one of the country's best seafood shacks, Shaggy's enjoys an open-air setting on Biloxi Beach and is a popular local gathering spot, making for a great atmosphere. Fresh seafood includes a fish of the day, oysters, Southern-style barbecued shrimp, and the signature fried seafood platter. The menu also features burgers, po'boys, and pasta dishes, plus a range of cocktails Key West style. You'll feel like you're among friends right away here—even if you want some nonfried seafood. The pulled-pork sandwich is a local favorite.