You know those meals that linger in your mind long after the last bite or the kind of cocktail you keep going back to because it never disappoints? That’s the inspiration behind this list. Our editorial team loves swapping stories about recent finds at local restaurants or old favorites we rediscovered, and now we’re sharing those recommendations with you.
1. Kalimotxo
Lucy’s Snackbar
This simple yet refreshing drink has been on our minds all month. Equal parts red wine and Mexican Coke, the Kalimotxo traces its roots back to the 1920s in the Old Port area of Algorta, a coastal town in Spain, where it was originally crafted out of preservation and resourcefulness. Since then, the drink has made its way around the world, and thanks to Lucy’s Snackbar, it’s found a home in the Coastal Bend. Garnished with a lime slice, it might sound like an odd pairing at first, but don’t knock it till you’ve tried it. 312 N Chaparral St. Ste. A
2. Hangover Breakfast Nachos
Tannins Wine Bar & Tapas
You don’t need to have had a wild night to enjoy these nachos from Tannins—though the name hints they might help if you did. Piled high with scrambled eggs, pulled pork and prosciutto, then finished with a smoked chipotle gouda cheese sauce, guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo, this dish is no joke. It’s big, bold and definitely share-worthy. 3855 S Alameda St.
3. Pollo Loco Sandwich
Community Crogery
The newest food option to open in Downtown Corpus Christi, Community Grocery is a boutique grocery store with an instant ramen bar, grab-and-go snacks and various essential items. However, our “All Good Things” rec comes from its cafe sandwich menu. The Pollo Loco layers queso fresco, heirloom rotisserie chicken, cilantro ranch, salsa verde, lettuce, avocado, chimichurri and tomato into one stacked bite. Grab it to go or stay and pair it with a drink inside. 317 People’s St.
4. Crab Fondue
Republic of Texas
The perfect way to kick off an evening of fine dining, the crab fondue at Republic of Texas is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Setting the tone for the rest of your meal, Gruyère cheese melds with tender blue crab meat for an indulgent dish. Served with crostinis made for scooping, it’s one of those starters that disappears fast. 900 N Shoreline Blvd.
5. Connecticut Style Lobster Roll
Masshole Food Truck
When the Masshole Food Truck rolls through Corpus Christi—splitting time between the Coastal Bend and San Antonio—you can bet the line will be wrapped around whatever block it’s parked at. The whole menu’s a win, but the Connecticut Style Lobster Roll is a standout. Tucked into a split-top challah is butter-poached lobster, lemon and chives. It’s rich, simple and finger-licking good. @massholelobstertruck
6. Jack’s Wings
B&J’s Pizza
This one might not be new to most, but if you haven’t had a basket of Jack’s Wings from B&J’s, take this as your sign. Tossed in Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and finished with crushed red pepper flakes, what really sets these wings apart is the generous topping of finely chopped fresh garlic—a nod to one of the owners and his well-known love for the stuff. Fair warning: you’ll want a stick of gum handy afterward, but it’s more than worth it. 6335 S Padre Island Dr & 6662 S Staples St.
This list is populated by our editorial team as a service to our readers. We have tried (and thoroughly enjoyed) everything on the list. Have you tried something lately that you think others need to know about? Let us know!