Does Gulfport have the best seafood restaurant in MS? Here’s what Yelp says
The Mississippi Coast is known for its fresh Gulf catches, so it’s no surprise that a restaurant in a Coast city is the best seafood dining spot in the state, according to Yelp reviewers.
But it’s not just Yelp reviewers that praise its delicious fare. The regional restaurant chain has won awards including Mississippi Magazine’s Best Seafood Restaurant in Mississippi, 2025; Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award, 2024; and more.
Here’s where to get the best seafood in the Magnolia State, according to Yelp.
Half Shell Oyster House
Half Shell Oyster House is an award-winning regional chain with 15 locations across Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. The original location in Gulfport is Yelp reviewers’ pick for the best seafood restaurant in Mississippi.
The restaurant opened in late 2008 with the goal of highlighting Southern cuisine with a New Orleans flair, according to its website.
Mainly known for its oysters on the half shell, charbroiled or Orleans-style with smoky Cajun sauce, Yelp reviewers say all the food is “out of the world.”
The chain has won several awards, including the following: Best Seafood Restaurant in Shelby County, 2025; Best Raw Oysters Nappie Finalist in Mobile, AL, 2025; Best Cajun and Creole restaurant in Jackson, 2025; Best Cajun Cuisine, Best Date Night Restaurant and Best Seafood Restaurant in Trussville, 2025; Mississippi Magazine’s Best Seafood Restaurant in Mississippi, 2025; Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award, 2024; and more.
Favorite menu items: Smoked Yellowfin tuna dip, smoky bacon shrimp and grits and the redfish Orleans
What Yelp reviewers said: “The Royal Redfish and Redfish Orleans were scrumptious. I got a side dish of cheese grits and my husband got the sweet potato brulee: awesome! We also ordered a dozen Oysters Rockefeller, so very delicious. The entire staff was friendly, and our server was the best. The ambiance was Gulf Coast casual with a flavor of New Orleans. Husband and I enjoyed the warm, cozy time here at lunchtime. Will definitely come back!”
Address: 2500 13th St #1, Gulfport, MS 39501
Website: https://www.halfshelloysterhouse.com/gulfport
Phone: (228) 867-7001
Where is the best seafood in neighboring states?
- Louisiana: Heard Dat Kitchen in New Orleans
- Arkansas: Blu Fresh Fish Marketplace in Bentonville
- Tennessee: Chesapeake’s in Gatlinburg
- Alabama: The Depot in Auburn
