Downtown Dining Guide
There’s something exciting brewing in Corpus Christi. Dining out is totally in style, with a bevy of chef-driven restaurants, fresh seafood by the water, authentic food trucks, and some of the best Tex-Mex and Texas-style barbecue that’s ever crossed your plate. Designed to fit every budget and any cravings, food is truly the spice of life — whether you’re in the mood to experience the first Whataburger that originated in Corpus Christi or an evening out in a Brazilian steakhouse. Let’s not forget the dynamic nightlife scene that sets us apart from all the rest. Sip craft brews in a local microbrewery, try mixologist-made cocktails while listening to live music or keep it real with refreshing frozen margaritas. From a family-friendly brunch to late-night eats, it’s all about enjoying big flavors and creating great memories.
LUCYS SNACKBAR
1.3 Miles from American Bank Center
312 N Chaparral St Ste. A, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Offering top-notch coffee and a curated selection of wine and beer, this is an excellent place to begin the evening ahead. Whether you're ordering a 3 PM matcha to revive your energy or you're ready for that tall glass of rose, Lucy's is a no-brainer.
LAREDO TACO COMPANY
0.7 Miles from American Bank Center
301 Interstate 37 Access Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
At Laredo Taco Company, all food is prepared with care, using fresh ingredients that are hand-prepared in-house, daily. From their handmade tortillas to the authentic Mexican flavors inspired by the Texas/Mexico border, each menu item is delicious and high-quality. Whether you’re joining for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll be greeted by the magic of handcrafted goodness and high-quality food.
CENTRAL KITCHEN
1.3 Miles from American Bank Center
320 Lomax St C, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Freshly baked breads, delicious sandwiches, sauces made from scratch—all prepared daily for those who appreciate that life is too short for anything less.
CAFE CALYPSO
1.2 Miles from American Bank Center
414 Starr St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Head downtown to Café Calypso for the ultimate Coffee House Culture with an in-house hands-on approach to their offerings. Pair a delicious coffee or specialty drink with something from their rotating selection of handmade pastries if you’re looking for something quick, or choose from street tacos, sliders, wraps, and more for an afternoon treat. The coffee house experience is kicked up a notch with live music and stunning outdoor views of Downtown Corpus Christi.
MORSEL'S CAFÉ
0.7 Miles from American Bank Center
900 North Shoreline Boulevard Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
Just like its name, Morsel’s has a little bit of everything. Located on the first floor of the Omni Hotel in Downtown Corpus Christi, Morsel’s offers Stance Coffee and Tea®, breakfast pastries, salads, and more, whether you need a quick bite in the morning or a pick-me-up in the afternoon. Have a seat at one of the bistro tables outside the coffee shop and watch the morning sunrise before heading out for your day.
GLASS PAVILION
0.7 Miles from American Bank Center
900 North Shoreline Boulevard Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
The Glass Pavilion Restaurant inside the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel offers guests a wide variety of menu options including steak, seafood and pasta. Families dining at the restaurant will enjoy our Kid’s Eat Free promotion. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week.
CZECH-MEX BAKERY
1.3 Miles from American Bank Center
711 N Carancahua St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
The dedicated bakers at popular business lunch spot Czech-Mex Bakery & Café begin sifting, tossing and kneading a whole lot of wholesome ingredients at 3am each morning. Good thing, because their kolaches, muffins, strudels and humongocious cinnamon rolls are crowd-pleasers. But the big draw here is the lunch special menu. The daily specials, soups and totally customizable sandwiches are super cheap and feature a rotation of items per week.
WHATABURGER BY THE BAY
1.2 Miles from American Bank Center
121 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Since 1950, Whataburger has proudly served a bigger, better burger. It all started when a young entrepreneur named Harmon Dobson had a bold idea: to serve a burger so big that it took two hands to hold, and so good that after a single bite customers couldn't help but exclaim, “What a burger!” He named his humble burger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas, “Whataburger.” Over six decades later, they're still family owned and operated.
SUBWAY
0.6 Miles from American Bank Center
1202 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Subway is an American multinational fast food restaurant franchise that specializes in submarine sandwiches, wraps, salads and drinks. Subway was founded by Fred DeLuca and financed by Peter Buck in 1965 as Pete's Super Submarines in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
BURGER KING
0.6 Miles from American Bank Center
309 I-37, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Home of the original Whoppper, every day, more than 11 million guests visit Burger King restaurants around the world. And they do so because their restaurants are known for serving high-quality, great-tasting, and affordable food. Founded in 1954, Burger King is the second largest fast food hamburger chain in the world.
PKK Pure Kountry Kooking
1.3 Miles from American Bank Center
213 S Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
PKK, formerly known as Portis Kountry Kitchen, has earned its historical significance within the Corpus Christi community, as it has been a staple in the lives of many for nearly 20 years. While surviving the devastation of a worldwide pandemic, PKK is one of the only veteran owned and black owned businesses in the coastal bend. This “Southern Soul Cooking” restaurant continues to serve the community with delicious quality food, great service, and a relaxing urban atmosphere.
Elizabeth’s at the Art Museum
0.3 Miles from American Bank Center
1902 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
At Elizabeth’s, everything is inspired by beauty. Indulge in our vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and cocktails. Surround yourself in warmth and charm—and breathtaking harbor views—all within the walls of the iconic Art Museum of South Texas.
Retrocade
1.1 Miles from American Bank Center
326 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
This barcade features tons of new and vintage games, plus a full bar on each floor. Fuel up at the restaurant downstairs with pizza, onion rings, burgers, or hot dogs, then head upstairs for all day play! Choose from pinball games, a giant Pac Man machine, tabletop games, and more. Don’t miss their sparkly see-thru floor that resembles a galaxy and offers a view into the bar downstairs.
Brewster Street Ice House
0.3 Miles from American Bank Center
1724 N Tancahua St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
The best live music South of Gruene Hall. Check out the best in Texas Country Music every Thursday night at Brewster Street- Downtown. Not the Brewster Street Grill! From seared tuna to fried shrimp to our famous "Kieschnick" burgers, Brewster Street Icehouse doesn't just have food, it has some of the best food in Corpus Christi, and you won't pay those full service restaurant prices.
Thai Spice
0.9 Miles from American Bank Center
523 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Family owned and operated for 12 years, Thai Spice is a local favorite in downtown Corpus Christi. Serving up authentic Thai cuisine, fresh daily with original recipes brought from our homeland.
Nueces Brewing and Barbecuing
1.1 Miles from American Bank Center
401 S Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Established in a former car dealership downtown, Nueces Brewing Company is one of Corpus Christi’s newest brewery and barbecue joints. Using old-world brewing techniques Nueces concocts simple, crisp, and refreshing brews. Pair any of their hand-crafted blends with a plate of Texas barbecue and you have the perfect arrangement for beating the South Texas heat!
Aka Sushi Downtown
1 Mile from American Bank Center
415 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Aka Sushi is a family owned restaurant in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi. With the best sushi bar in town you will always leave satisfied. So come by and see for yourself just how great our sushi is!
Water Street Sushi Room
1.1 Miles from American Bank Center
309 N Water St # B, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
This new addition to the Water Street Market is sure to get your taste buds rolling. Water Street Sushi Room offers new and classic sushi rolls and fresh poke bowls!
REBEL TOAD
1.2 Miles from American Bank Center
425 Lomax St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Stationed in the heart of downtown, Rebel Toad Brewing Company offers eight house taps to fill your belly or growler with brews ranging from an easy-drinking golden ale to a dark stout. The 10-barrel microbrewery uses fresh, quality ingredients. Laid back and family-friendly, Rebel Toad houses a cozy taproom with an outdoor patio, board games, and live local music.
EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB
1.2 Miles from American Bank Center
306 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Since 1990, the Executive Surf Club has been Corpus Christi's most reliable post-work happy hour, as well as the perfect casual family dining spot. All the while supplying the most beer on tap in the city, alongside the best in local music. So loosen up your tie, call your friends, and head downtown to the Executive Surf Club. Don't forget the pup & enjoy our dog friendly patio!
HOUSE OF ROCK
511 Starr St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
The Texas House of Rock is a Coastal Bend restaurant scene staple located right in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi. It’s divided into three sections – The Venue, The Middle Bar and The Main Bar – that all combine to make it one of the best neighborhood hangouts around! With live music every Wednesday to Sunday, the House of Rock is an ideal place to eat, drink and jam out with your friends. The Kitchen, which is housed in the Main Bar area, serves delicious specialty pizzas, assorted appetizers, sandwiches and salads perfect for lunch or dinner. The full-service main and middle bars offer daily happy hour specials seven days a week. For private events, The Venue section is available for booking your next wedding reception or corporate party!
BAR UNDER THE SUN
702 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Located in the former Greyhound Bus Station is a patio-style bar you’re sure to love. Whether you're looking to host a black-tie soiree or host a more laid-back affair, BUS is the perfect venue for you. We are a spacious, one-of-a-kind event venue perfect for everything from baby showers, birthday parties, corporate events, receptions, and even weddings! Voted the Bend Magazine Local's List Best Bar 2021 & Best Bar 2022, we boast several indoor and outdoor spaces, an attentive staff, and an exclusive drink menu to accommodate a variety of events to help you celebrate milestones or create memories.
THE EXCHANGE
224 N Mesquite St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
The Exchange in Corpus Christi is exactly that -- an exchange for the arts and cultural experiences of the city. Whether you're exchanging ideas, poems, or a cheers, we wanted to create the best space possible for the people of Corpus to come together. Got an idea for an event? We're always happy to host! We've got incredible Texas beers on tap, not to mention our locally sourced craft cuisine. Come check us out and allow the spirit of Corpus creativity to inspire you.
Rockit's Whiskey Bar & Saloon
709 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Established in 1989, the original Dr. Rockit’s Legendary Blues Bar was an iconic music venue in the coastal bend. In 2015, Dr Rockit’s lease was purchased by the partners of Brewster Street Icehouse and Concrete Street Amphitheater. These partners took over the property giving it a significant clean up / face lift both in it’s physical appearance and in it’s entertainment offerings. Rockit’s Whiskey Bar & Saloon was opened to the public in April of 2015 with an expanded menu of activities, entertainment options and beverage menu. Our goal at Rockit’s Whiskey Bar and Saloon was to create a casual but upscale environment that was comfortable, entertaining and inviting. We think we hit the mark! Come see for yourself.
The Goldfish
724 N Mesquite St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Round up the squad and make your way to The Gold Fish Bar downtown for an evening of delicious cocktails and the perfect ambience for great conversations and non-stop fun. Choose from their Corpus Christi inspired cocktail menu, a glass of wine or a bottle of beer from their extensive menu selection. The coastal atmosphere of this bar and the delicious menu selections makes it the perfect blend of fun and flavor.
The Point of Corpus Christi
601 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Enjoy a lively and inviting atmosphere with good music and great food at The Point of Corpus Christi. Sing your heart out during karaoke night, and enjoy a delicious feast of wings, Pacos Tacos, burgers, quesadillas, nachos, and more. If you happen to be there on the first Friday of the month, swing by the Art Walk Block Party for additional fun.
Grandview Lounge
300 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
The Grandview Lounge features exactly what it promises: a grand view! Ride the elevator up to the 11th floor of the Best Western Corpus Christi Hotel to experience a breathtaking view of the Corpus Christi Bay. The rooftop bar – surrounded by giant floor-to-ceiling glass windows – offers an extensive beer, cocktail and wine list crafted by experienced bartenders, serving as the perfect date spot to take your special someone. Catch a sunset at the Grandview Lounge. You’ll be happy you did it! Features: - Rooftop bar - Beer, wine and cocktail menu - Live music - Friendly atmosphere - Accessible to disabled - Private parties
HARRISON'S LANDING
108 Peoples St T-Head, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Nowhere else in Corpus Christi can you sail, shop and dine all in the same shaded waterfront location. Tavern on the Bay at Harrison's Landing is Corpus Christi's newest outdoor restaurant & bar located in the heart of the city's marina, and is within walking distance from the downtown hotels. Our menu offers a delicious assortment of burgers, seafood, salads and more! Stop by for a frosty margarita and cold shrimp! The ambience and location can't be beaten! Come casual, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the waterfront. You won't go away hungry! While you're there, be sure to step into Cathy's Boutique & Gifts for fun shopping; or the Yachting Center to book a sailing cruise, or buy tickets for a one hour boat ride!
WATER ST. OYSTER BAR
309 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Water Street Oyster Bar is a family-owned restaurant located just blocks from Corpus Christi Bay and the first flagship restaurant located in the Water Street Market. Be sure to head to this downtown favorite if you’re looking for amazing seafood and fresh oysters!
U&I Steak and Seafood Restaurant
309 S Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Once you get seated at this family-style, full-service classic, settle in. The menu takes a while to get through. There are steak dinners for all appetites – from 6 oz. sirloins to huge, hearty ribeye, all charbroiled over an open mesquite flame and dishes featuring delicate grilled fish as well as generous seafood platters. There are Mexican entrees, Italian, good-ol’ Southern and even Souvlaki, shish-ka-bob and surf & turf for good measure.
RAILROAD SEAFOOD & BREWERY
0.5 Miles from American Bank Center
1214 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
This brewery was Corpus Christi's first microbrewery by bringing in a 5bbl steam jacketed brewhouse. Their house beer styles range from a light pilsner all the way to a dark stout. If you can't decide what house beer to try, grab a flight, and if you love it take some home in a growler. Truly mouth-watering food...from signature, crisp homemade onion rings and tender Gulf Shrimp, to chicken-fried steaks and crisp refreshing salads...is the hallmark of Railroad Brewing Company.
REPUBLIC OF TEXAS BAR & GRILL
0.6 Miles from American Bank Center
900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
The Republic of Texas Bar & Grill is one of Corpus Christi's top dining destinations. Located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, offers diners beautiful panoramic views of the Corpus Christi bay. We have all the ingredients for the perfect celebration; an award-winning wine list, a tempting menu featuring prime beef, wild game and seafood, and captivating views. Reservations recommended.
VIETNAM RESTAURANT
0.9 Miles from American Bank Center
701 N. Water St. Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Casual restaurant serving French & Vietnamese fare, plus a long wine list, in a classy setting.
JOE'S CRAB SHACK
1.3 Miles from American Bank Center
444 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Enjoy beach themed seafood at Joe's Crab Shack on the Bayfront in Corpus Christi Municipal Marina. Enjoy spectacular views of the Wednesday night sailboat races in a one-of-a-kind location.
LA PLAYA BY THE BAY
1.2 Miles from American Bank Center
227 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Enjoy a fiesta of flavors with the savory Tex-Mex cuisine at La Playa by the Bay, as you take in the ocean breeze and picturesque views of Downtown Corpus Christi from the outdoor patio. Their signature margaritas and friendly staff are the cherry on top of an unforgettable seaside dining experience.
DOKYO DAUNTAUN
1 Mile from American Bank Center
424 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
This Japanese and Korean fusion restaurant serves up classic favorites and innovative creations, from the sushi, bulgogi, and pork belly to the unique cocktails and desserts. Known for its melting pot of culinary delights, Dokyo Dauntaun also has extensive vegan and vegetarian options. For the ultimate experience, the Neo-Tokyo design with its modern aesthetic and neon lights in addition to the bustling downtown area, offer an authentic and immersive experience.
DOC'S SEAFOOD & STEAKS
13309 S. Padre Island Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Come join us for great weekday lunch and drink specials. As the sun sets, there is no better place to relax and enjoy dinner than on our deck under the J.F.K. overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway! We pride ourselves in having an extensive menu and full service bar. Our friendly staff is ready to serve you to create the perfect dining experience. With live music from local artist Doc's shows our appreciation of the arts and shares it with our customers, you might even get lucky and catch a pod of dolphins swimming by.
SNOOPY'S PIER
13313 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Open-air and right on the water with both indoor and outdoor seating options, Snoopy’s Pier is one of the only unobstructed views of the sunset over the water in all of Corpus Christi. Founded by long- time commercial fisherman Ernie Butler in 1980, the complex has grown into one of the area’s most endearing restaurants. There’s an onsite fish house and shrimp breading facility to ensure the freshest quality. With fast counter service, the restaurant also boasts a full-service bar and all major credit cards are now accepted. Once you pick up that steaming plate of fresh catch or fried shrimp and a cold bottle of brew, the experience is well worth the short drive across the JFK Causeway to North Padre Island. Don’t miss the companion dessert veranda, Scoopy’s next door! Blue bell icecream and desserts are served as well as fresh choices like soups, salads, and sandwiches.
SCOOPY'S VERANDA
13313 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78418
I scream, you scream, we all scream for Ice Cream! Settle down, there's plenty for everyone at Scoopy's Veranda. Located on Snoopy's Pier overlooking the Laguna Madre, Scoopy’s serves up salads, sandwiches – and most importantly – scoops of Blue Bell, the national ice cream of Texas, y'all. Plus, you just cannot beat that view on water’s edge, especially at sunset.
PEARL OYSTER BAR
13313 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Savor over 15 varieties of oysters on the half-shell, flown in from all over the world at Snoopy’s Pearl Oyster Bar, located just off the JFK Causeway on the Intracoastal Waterway. The Pearl also offers a full menu that caters to every palate, ranging from steaks to a variety of fresh shellfish dishes, and a cook your own catch option. Add in one of their hand crafted cocktails and the best sunset view on the Laguna Madre and you’ve got an unforgettable dining experience.
COSTA SUR
15113 S. Padre Island Dr., Ste. 101 Corpus Christi, TX 78418
A native of Lima, Peru, head chef Nick Mackrizz studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Austin, Texas. In addition to his technical training, Nick dedicated his culinary direction and inspiration to his home country, spending several months in Peru perfecting the art of Peruvian cuisine. He has worked at several top restaurants including El Senorio De Sulco and El Mercado under the guidance of world known chef, Rafael Osterling. Nick now brings his knowledge of exceptional Peruvian cuisine and well-executed dining experiences to the Corpus Christi scene via Costa Sur, by providing an array of dishes that combine traditional Peruvian delicacies with modern twists.
PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY
11878 Hwy. 361 Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Padre Island Burger Company is a full-service restaurant and bar located in Corpus Christi. It was created from the vision of chef Jason Johnson, a Corpus Christi native and Culinary Institute of the Arts graduate who always wanted to open a restaurant in his hometown. Build your own burger, choose a side and top your meal off with an ice-cold beer as you enjoy your favorite sports game or live in-house music on the weekends. Or, you can try your hand at one of the specialty burgers crafted by Johnson himself!
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Taste the flavors and cuisine of the Coastal Bend during your stay! Corpus Christi is home to fresh seafood, authentic taquerias, and trendy eateries that have something for everyone.
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