The Eastern Shore Chamber continued its quest for the Best Crab Cakes on the Eastern Shore in May at the home of "Fried, Stewed or Nude,” Wintzell’s Oyster House in Fairhope.  "Fried, Stewed or Nude,” of course, refers to the different ways you can order your oysters at this legendary establishment.  Since 1938, Wintzell’s has been serving up fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, sandwiches, and other great menu items that have attracted customers far and wide.  

Upon entering the restaurant, you notice the witty sayings of none other than J. Oliver Wintzell, the founder of Wintzell’s, displayed all over the walls.  There is a large bar complete with bartenders and oyster shuckers as well as a welcoming deck providing extraordinary outdoor dining.  

Once our guests had arrived and had time to meet and mingle, the servers brought out complimentary trays of crab cakes for everyone to sample.  The crab cakes were baked flawlessly with a wonderful crispiness on the outside and light, fluffy, all-lump crab meat inside.  The cakes were topped with a delicious remoulade sauce that added the ideal flavor compliment.  Since I was at Wintzell’s, I had to order oysters, so I decided on a half dozen Oysters Monterey which were topped with jalapeños, smoked bacon and melted cheddar cheese.  Add a bowl of Alabama’s most award-winning gumbo and I was floating on cloud 9!

Wintzell’s now has ten great locations throughout Alabama, including the Fairhope restaurant located off of South Mobile Street.  The Fairhope location is operated by General Manager, Scott Wolfe whose staff treated us to a wonderful evening.  

I would like to extend a special thank you to Scott and his amazing staff for hosting the Eastern Shore Chamber and providing such great service and food.  Please visit the Fairhope Wintzell’s Oyster House taste the dishes that have made the restaurant iconic for so many years.  Be sure to join us on June 15^th at our next stop, Rosie’s Grill.