Cruise the Bay, drop anchor at Valdo’s pier, and hop off to enjoy fresh, succulent Gulf seafood with a Mexican/Creole accent. Prices are similar to chains like Pappadeaux, but the comparison ends there; the big guys don’t offer you gigantic mountain shrimp over thick, tart remoulade, or spicy Pontchartrain fish with an elegant New Orleans wine cream sauce.  Valdo’s chilled-out decor might not recall Mexico, but entrees like the huge shrimp Enchiladas are the equal of any self-consciously “authentic” restaurant in town. Gulf oysters are back in abundance, so why not crack open a few, sip a strong, colorful cocktail, and watch the water dance. Check out Valdo’s website for coupons.

Valdo’s Seafood House
4106 Nasa Parkway
El Lago, TX 77586
(281) 326-3866
www.valdosseafoodhouse.com