Shrimp Basket

Nestled in the heart of Gardendale at 550 Fieldstown Rd, Shrimp Basket has been a beacon of Gulf Coast hospitality since its humble beginnings in 1993. What started as a casual seafood spot founded by two Gulf Shores locals has blossomed into a regional favorite, blending Southern charm with the laid-back energy of coastal Alabama. The Gardendale location, now part of a growing family of restaurants across the Southeast, carries forward the original vision of creating spaces where families gather, friends reconnect, and every guest leaves feeling like part of the community.

At its core, Shrimp Basket embodies the spirit of uncomplicated coastal living. The menu reads like a love letter to Gulf seafood, featuring everything from hand-breaded shrimp baskets to flaky flounder, all served with the restaurant’s signature shrimp slaw and golden hushpuppies. While shrimp takes center stage—prepared fried, grilled, or blackened—the offerings extend to crawfish, oysters, and even landlubber-friendly options like burgers, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Seasonal specials like the Reel Deal meal (complete with drink, starter, and entrée) and Oyster Tuesdays, featuring .79-cent oysters all day, keep regulars coming back for new flavors.

The Gardendale location’s story mirrors the brand’s resilience and adaptability. After temporarily closing during the pandemic, it reopened in 2022 to renewed enthusiasm, becoming the second Birmingham-area franchise. This revival speaks to the restaurant’s deep roots in community trust—a place where servers remember regulars’ orders and the beach-inspired decor transports diners to Alabama’s sugar-white shores. Testimonials from patrons highlight this commitment to warmth, with many noting how the staff’s genuine care transforms meals into memorable gatherings.

Beyond the plate, Shrimp Basket thrives on creating experiences. The airy, coastal-themed dining room, accented with nautical blues and weathered wood, offers a permanent “beach escape” vibe. Cocktails crafted with Southern spirits and fresh ingredients complement the menu, while family-friendly pricing ensures accessibility without sacrificing quality. For those craving convenience, online ordering and delivery options through platforms like DoorDash bring the taste of the coast straight to Gardendale’s doorsteps.

What truly sets Shrimp Basket apart is its philosophy of keeping things “shrimple.” From the kitchen’s focus on fresh, never-frozen seafood to the staff’s dedication to heartfelt service, every element works in harmony to honor the founders’ original mission. Whether it’s a family celebrating a milestone, coworkers sharing a lunch break, or visitors discovering Gulf flavors for the first time, the restaurant cultivates an environment where every interaction feels personal. As Gardendale’s dining scene grows with new developments like the Crossing at Magnolia, Shrimp Basket remains a steadfast favorite—a testament to its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots as a place where good food and genuine hospitality create lasting connections.

For nearly three decades, Shrimp Basket has proven that exceptional seafood needs no pretension. At the Gardendale location, this legacy continues through heaping baskets of crispy shrimp, laughter echoing across checkered tablecloths, and the unwavering belief that great meals are best shared with those who feel like family. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a community anchor where every visit feels like coming home to the Alabama coast.