Historic Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant Honored with Prestigious James Beard Award

Gaido’s, a beloved seafood restaurant on Galveston’s Seawall Boulevard, has received the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award for 2025. The family-owned restaurant opened in 1911 and was recognized for its timeless appeal, exceptional seafood, and deep community ties.

Austen Altenwerth

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Austen Altenwerth

Published 

Mar 4, 2025

Historic Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant Honored with Prestigious James Beard Award

Gaido’s on Seawall Boulevard, a renowned establishment in Texas seafood dining, has earned the prestigious 2025 James Beard America’s Classics Award, a significant accolade for enduring, independent restaurants across the nation.

Founded in 1911, Gaido’s has been a cornerstone of Gulf Coast cuisine, offering fresh seafood for more than a hundred years. The restaurant boasts stunning oceanfront views, renowned Gulf shrimp dishes, and a strong dedication to the community.

The James Beard Foundation, which revealed this year’s winners on Wednesday, recognizes the America’s Classics Award as a recognition of independently owned restaurants that possess enduring charm and are cherished within their communities. Gaido’s is now part of an esteemed group of previous honorees that also includes New Orleans’ Dooky Chase and Chicago’s Lem’s Bar-B-Q.

Restaurant owner Nick Gaido expressed his appreciation on social media, stating, "We are absolutely blown away." Serving this community is a privilege, and we will persist in doing so with immense pride!

In addition to its esteemed reputation for quality seafood, Gaido’s has actively participated in philanthropic initiatives, raising more than $50,000 for Ukraine in response to the 2022 Russian invasion.

This award signifies an important milestone for Gaido’s and highlights Galveston’s vibrant culinary legacy, solidifying its reputation as an essential destination for residents and visitors alike.

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