HOW TO SPEND 24 HOURS EATING AND DRINKING IN SAN LEON
If you’re looking for a waterside getaway near Houston, Galveston isn’t the only answer. Space City is close to several coastal cities or waterside towns that can make what is a short drive feel like thousands of miles away. Irreverently described as a “small drinking community with a large fishing problem,” San Leon is an ideal staycation getaway around 45 minutes from Houston. Known for its fresh seafood, recreational and commercial fishing, and its no-frills, storied bars, this sleepy peninsula town is much more chill than its nearby Galveston and Houston counterparts, and according to many locals, that’s just how they like it. So, in the spirit of San Leon, here’s a dining and drinking guide that is by no means a race. Instead, consider it a leisurely stroll through some of what San Leon has to offer — whether you’re seeking a simple escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or a chance to enjoy some quality seafood by the water.
8 a.m. — Breakfast tacos at Taqueria Potosina
646 18th Street
When in search of some early morning sustenance or an on-the-water snack, this no-frills taco truck is a perfect casual stop first thing in the morning. The breakfast tacos are made-to-order, with fillings like sausage, potatoes, bacon, or chorizo, and the option to make them “a la Mexicana” or like the Mexican flag, with a mix of peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Lunch, which ends at 3 p.m., spans a vast menu of Tex-Mex favorites, including tortas, flautas, chimichangas, tostadas, burritos, and street tacos. Take a moment to breathe in the salty air while sipping on an agua fresca on its patio, or pack up your meal in a cooler to enjoy by or on the water.
Noon — Lunch at Topwater Grill
815 Avenue O
Whether your fishing trip was fruitful or not, Top Water Grill is an ideal place to dine and celebrate (or commiserate), leaving all the cooking up to its chefs. Housed in April Fool Point Marina, this bayside bar and restaurant has a “you hook it, we cook it” policy. Request your catch fried and enjoy it on a platter of hush puppies, fries, Topwater’s cult-favorite shrimp slaw, and tartar and cocktail sauces, or go for a blackened or pecan-crusted version, served with lemon butter, rice pilaf, and mixed vegetables. But diners who come in empty-handed can still expect a feast. The restaurant owns and operates its own fleet of shrimp and oyster boats, meaning all seafood comes fresh from the Gulf. The menu is brimming with seafood dishes like crisp Malibu coconut shrimp served with a mango habanero sauce, its hot steamed Royal Red Shrimp, stuffed flounder, bowls of gumbo and lobster bisque, and grilled fish tacos.
3 p.m. — Tour and sip at Railean Distillery and Buccaneer Bar
341 5th Street
Chances are if you sipped some rum at Topwater, it was Railean’s. Nestled in an off-street in San Leon, this 21-and-up pirate-themed bar and distillery is a staple in San Leon. Owners Kelly and Matthew Railean founded the rum distillery in 2006, later adding the Buccaneer Bar to its repertoire in memory of the original bar that was destroyed by Hurricane Ike in 2008. In 2013, Railean officially opened its tasting room, inviting locals and visitors in for educational tours, tropical-leaning cocktails, and spirits, including rum, whiskey, vodka, and blue agave. Try its Talk Like a Pirate Rum Punch, a signature combination of Railean rum, pineapple, orange juice, ginger ale, and a secret blend of spices, or the $5 rum-based Parrot Piss shots, made with red raspberry, and lemon-lime soda, while taking in the pirate decor. Be sure to call ahead about the tours, which are often held around 3 p.m.
5 p.m. — Drinks and bites at Gilhooley’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar
222 9th Street
Stop by this legendary San Leon 18-and-up bar and settle in for a colorful pre-dinner pitstop. Find iconic snacks like its fried chicken livers and gizzards, robust bowls of shrimp cocktail, and the loved-by-regulars Big French Bread that’s layered with Parmesan cheese. Sneak in some of its Gulf oysters, prepared and dressed however you like them, and down some ice-cold beers or cocktails — but don’t forget to save room for dinner.
7 p.m. — Dinner at Pier 6
113 6th Street
Owned by Raz Halili, a San Leon native who supplies the oysters through his family-owned company Prestige Oysters, this James Beard award-nominated restaurant offers a charming waterfront dining experience and — especially around sunset. Start with drinks like the gin-fueled Green Parrot, made with green chili, cucumber, basil, and a spicy tincture, or stick with your Railean rum kick with the passion fruit-flavored Blonde Hurricane. Then, slurp down raw oysters on the half-shell and grilled renditions, like the Hot Blooded oysters topped with zesty garlic, sriracha, and habanero butter, before diving into dishes like Joe Cervantez’s signature grilled redfish served with a chimichurri sauce, the chili-marinated and grilled Piri Piri shrimp served with turmeric rice, or the decadent seafood pasta made with Bay shrimp, poached lobster, and cherry tomatoes in a citrus cream sauce.
Late Night — Nightcap at San Leon Beach Pub
Open until 2 a.m. on most nights, San Leon’s oldest bar is truly the town’s local watering hole and meeting place. Unwind here with cold drinks and games of pool, chat up local characters, and take a walk along the shore to soak in your last few hours on water’s edge.
Lodging — Pier 6 Bungalows
111 18th Street, San Leon, TX 77539
If you’re looking to feel at home, these charming waterfront condos are another way to immerse visitors in the San Leon spirit, with private access to the pier that’s optimal for fishing enthusiasts, and an outdoor patio and balcony with a full view of the Gulf. Inside, these beachy digs have a cozy living area, a full kitchen, and enough beds to accommodate four to six people depending on the model. Plus, they’re just a short drive from the Pier 6 restaurant, where guests get a 20 percent discount when they dine. Rates are $150 and up a night.