You might have an image of poached shrimp on a bed of ice served with a couple of sauces as the classic shrimp cocktail dish, and you wouldn’t be wrong. However, in South Texas, shrimp cocktail is usually Mexican-inspired with spicy and tangy notes similar to those found in ceviche or agua chile, but with cooked shrimp as the main ingredient. Here is a list of five shrimp cocktails in Corpus Christi to try, each with its distinct presentation and flavor profile.
Shrimp Cocktail
Republic of Texas Bar and Grill
The penthouse restaurant overlooking downtown is known for its quality steaks and 5-star dining atmosphere, but don’t skip over the small plates and seafood options. The shrimp cocktail consists of five jumbo shrimp, English cucumber, white onion and a zippy Don Julio Tequila cocktail sauce. Enjoy this fresh, shareable plate alongside a crisp white wine from the impressive list. 900 N. Shoreline Blvd.
Padre Island Shrimp Cocktail
Doc’s Seafood and Steaks
The Padre Island Shrimp Cocktail from the local favorite waterfront restaurant Doc’s Seafood & Steaks is extra flavorful due to the addition of blackened shrimp and spicy cocktail sauce. The concoction is served with warm tortilla chips, and pairs nicely with a jalapeño margarita from The Waterline. 13309 S. Padre Island Drive
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Saltwater Grill
The Mexican shrimp cocktail from Saltwater Grill is tangy and fresh with just enough spice. Shrimp is tossed in pico de gallo and housemade cocktail sauce with fresh citrus and avocado, and is served with tortilla chips. The generous portion is large enough to share before feasting on entrees of inventive seafood offerings. 2401 Cimarron Blvd.
Shrimp Campechana
The Blue Clove
The Blue Clove is known for its fresh seafood and decadent sauce pairings, and the Shrimp Campechana is one of the traditional menu items done with excellence. Poached shrimp is served in a large cocktail glass with a spicy tomato-based sauce, onion, cucumber, lime and avocado, and served with crackers. 5884 Everhart Road
Shrimp Cocktail
Mariscos Altamar
Unsurprisingly, the Nayarit-style seafood restaurant Mariscos Altamar has an excellent shrimp cocktail option. Poached shrimp is served in a spicy red sauce with plenty of lime juice, red onion, cucumber and avocado. Consider ordering this alongside a variety of ceviche and agua chile served in a pineapple for the table. 5114 Weber Road
