Shipp's Harbour Grill: Fresh Seafood, Steaks & Sushi In Orange Beach!

Percival Roob 11 May 2025

Is it possible for a restaurant to become a beloved institution, a cornerstone of its community, and then face an unforeseen challenge? The story of Shipp's Harbour Grill in Orange Beach, Alabama, is a poignant example of how a local favorite can capture hearts and palates before weathering both triumphs and tribulations.

Shipp's Harbour Grill, a name synonymous with fresh gulf seafood, succulent steaks, and artfully crafted sushi, carved a niche for itself in the vibrant dining scene of Orange Beach. It offered more than just a meal; it provided an experience. Patrons were drawn to the casual, waterfront atmosphere, where the gentle sea breeze mingled with the aroma of culinary delights. The restaurant, perched overlooking the picturesque Orange Beach Harbour, was a feast for the senses, with its tropical outdoor seating adorned with fresh flowers, creating a welcoming ambiance for diners. The establishment quickly garnered a loyal following, becoming a preferred destination for locals and tourists alike, seeking a drink, a memorable meal, and the perfect end to a day spent along the Alabama coast.

The restaurant, which enjoyed a favorable rating of 3.5 out of 5 on Restaurant Guru based on 1530 visitor reviews and 51 photos, was known for its extensive menu, the quality of its offerings, and the consistently high levels of service. Shipp's Harbour Grill became known for its "old school recipes" and also for its starters, like west indies salad and pepper fried shrimp, or sushi or sashimi. The restaurant served as a hub for community gatherings, celebratory dinners, and casual get-togethers, cementing its place in the hearts of those who frequented it. The upper deck provided an elevated dining experience and was ideal for family gatherings.

Attribute	Details
Name of Establishment	Shipp's Harbour Grill
Location	Orange Beach, Alabama
Cuisine Type	Fresh Gulf Seafood, Steaks, Sushi
Atmosphere	Casual, Relaxing Waterfront Dining, Tropical Twist
Special Features	Upper Deck Dining, Outdoor Seating, Variety of Old School Recipes
Key Personnel	Chef Matt Shipp, Regina Shipp
Notable Dishes	West Indies Salad, Pepper Fried Shrimp, Oysters, Sushi, Sashimi
Community Impact	Popular Local Restaurant for Dining and Socializing
Owner(s)	Matt and Regina Shipp

In the culinary landscape of Orange Beach, the name "Shipp" was synonymous with excellence and innovation. Chef Matt Shipp, a graduate of the esteemed Culinary Institute of America, and his wife Regina, cultivated a menu and atmosphere that was a feast for the senses. For eight years, the establishment thrived, becoming a bustling hub that served as a landmark for many tourists and locals. Its popularity was reflected in the sizable following on social media, with thousands of likes and numerous check-ins, illustrating its central role in the social fabric of Orange Beach.

The narrative took a turn when, on a Tuesday morning, a fire broke out in the kitchen of Shipp's Harbour Grill, located at 27842 Canal Road. The Orange Beach Fire Department swiftly responded, successfully containing the blaze. The local community responded with an outpouring of support, conveying gratitude to the fire department and offering words of encouragement to the Shipp family. Regina Shipp expressed appreciation for the support, underlining the resilience of the community. The fire, a stark reminder of the unexpected challenges that can affect any business, momentarily cast a shadow over the establishments future.

The restaurant's story is an intricate one, with various threads weaving through the narrative. It involves the announcement of the purchase of Shipp's Harbour Grill by the Fishers team on the 13th. The restaurant was eventually acquired by the Fisher's team, which was sad news for locals and tourists. The relationship between the restaurant and the community had been well-established, contributing to the sorrow and also reflecting on the restaurant's impact on the area. The involvement of Chef Matt Shipp in the restaurant, including his working relationship with Christian Mendoza, provides additional background to the establishment.

The acquisition was also a significant milestone in the local dining scene. The restaurant's reputation for delicious food, paired with its picturesque setting, had solidified its status. From delightful starters like west indies salad and pepper fried shrimp to the sushi and oysters that became popular, the restaurant's offerings consistently drew customers. The menu, filled with fresh seafood, quality steaks, and inventive sushi, demonstrated Shipp's Harbour Grill's dedication to providing an excellent dining experience.

Shipp's Harbour Grill not only provided a place to eat but also enhanced the citys social fabric. The restaurant was a gathering place and a place of celebration. Its role within the community was evident in the number of supporters. The restaurant's success over the years reflects the dedication of the owners, the commitment of the staff, and the loyalty of its customers. The establishment was clearly a treasured local destination, a cornerstone of the community, and a symbol of Orange Beach's vibrant culinary landscape.

Shipp's Harbour Grill's story illustrates the dynamic nature of the restaurant industry and the significance of local businesses within their communities. The restaurant's commitment to quality, its creation of a welcoming ambiance, and the strong bonds it fostered with its patrons ensured its enduring popularity. As the story progresses, the actions taken by the new owners and the continued support of the Orange Beach community will determine the future of this valued landmark, and it will set an example for the next chapter.