Shrimp and grits is one of those dishes that sounds simple but reveals everything about a kitchen. Get it right and it’s pure Southern comfort. Tallahassee has no shortage of places getting it very, very right.
But before we get to the restaurants — let’s talk about the grits themselves, because this is where most home cooks go wrong.
The Secret Starts at Bradley’s
If you’re making shrimp and grits at home, there is one non-negotiable: pick up a bag of stone-ground grits from Bradley’s Country Store. Located 12 miles north of Tallahassee on Centerville Road, this National Register of Historic Places landmark has been milling grits on-site since the 1920s — ground on a stone Burr Grist Mill powered by a vintage Ford tractor. These are not instant grits. They take about 45 minutes to cook, but one bite and you’ll understand why. Worth every minute.
Where to Order Shrimp and Grits in Tallahassee
Coosh’s Bayou Rouge — Our top pick. Louisiana-born owners Coosh and Margaret have been bringing authentic Cajun flavors to Tallahassee since 2001, and their shrimp and grits is the real deal — deeply seasoned and the kind of bowl that makes you reconsider every version you’ve had before. Don’t let the strip mall location fool you.
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille — A multiple award winner for best seafood in Tallahassee, Harry’s brings New Orleans-inspired flavor with a brick courtyard atmosphere. The shrimp and grits is a must-order.
Wahoo Seafood Grill — Fresh, local seafood butchered on-site daily. Classic shrimp and grits served over creamy grits in a lively maritime atmosphere. Live music Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
Backwoods Crossing — A true farm-to-table gem run by two brothers who know North Florida’s local produce, seafood, and livestock best. Creative and locally sourced — worth every mile.
Kool Beanz Cafe — A Tallahassee institution since 1996, ranked #1 on TripAdvisor. Their shrimp and grits features smoked goat cheese grits unlike anything else in town. Menu changes daily.
Table 23 — A Southern porch, table, and bar in Midtown. Consistently praised for its shrimp and grits and commitment to local ingredients.
The Egg Cafe & Eatery — A breakfast and brunch favorite. Their shrimp and grits skillet is a morning standout — hearty, comforting, and the kind of thing that makes a Saturday feel like a holiday.
Lucilla — Southern comfort food with a Creole twist. One of Tallahassee’s newer standouts earning high marks across the board.
The Liberty Bar — A neighborhood bar that punches well above its weight on the food side. Shrimp and grits with a loyal following.
The Wharf Casual Seafood — Casual, fresh, and seafood-focused with a devoted local fanbase.
Shell Oyster Bar — A Tallahassee institution since 1953, best known for its raw bar. The Southern seafood dishes are solid, shrimp and grits included.
Jeri’s Midtown Cafe — A beloved midtown staple with warm Southern hospitality and comfort food done right.
Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux — Louisiana roots show up on the menu here. A solid pick for shrimp and grits before or after a game.
Lofty Pursuits — Known for candy and games, but the cafe surprises with solid Southern dishes.
Grove Market Cafe — A hidden gem with a devoted local following. Check their daily specials.
Worth the Drive — Nearby Restaurants
Jonah’s Fish & Grits — Located in historic Thomasville, Georgia (about 45 minutes north), the name says it all. Alcohol-free, family-friendly, and absolutely worth the trip.
Tropical Trader Shrimp Co. — Fresh Gulf shrimp, casual coastal Florida flavors.
The Lodge at Wakulla Springs — Historic, stunning, and a true old Florida experience. The Southern cooking fits the atmosphere perfectly.
SASS — The Sweet and Savory Sisters — A local favorite with charm to spare. Follow their specials for rotating Southern comfort dishes.
Rev Cafe — A Havana, FL gem. Small town, big flavor.
Know a spot we missed? Drop it in the comments!
