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Gaido's Seafood Restaurant, a family-owned establishment and Galveston landmark that has been serving the freshest fish in the Gulf of Mexico for over 100 years. With family roots in the late 19th century, Gaido's is a story of love, family, and a commitment to quality and tradition. As you enter the restaurant, you'll be transported back in time to the year 1911 when San Giacinto Gaido, also known as Cinto, opened this seafood restaurant and began a legacy that still stands today. You can almost feel the history of the place as you explore the scents of the open-flame grilling and the flavors of the unique sauces, seasonings, and salad dressings. Take a seat and imagine the famous faces that have enjoyed a meal here, as well as the thousands of families celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and retirements. And don't forget the delicious Pecan Pie! At Gaido's, you'll be able to taste the history and experience a unique culinary adventure, all while appreciating the century-old family tradition and the commitment to freshness and quality!
Interested in the information covered in this episode? Dive deeper into the links below! http://www.gaidos.com/about/
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1911, a year that saw the Galvez hotel, the jewel of the seawall, open and a little seafood restaurant that would stand the test of time and become a century-old landmark right here on our own island.
Gaido's Seafood Restaurant is a family-owned establishment that has been serving the freshest fish in the Gulf of Mexico for over 100 years. Gaido's was founded by San Giacinto Gaido, also known as Cinto, an Italian immigrant who fell in love with the island of Galveston and its bountiful seafood. Cinto had the vision to serve only the best. That commitment has been passed down through generations of the Gaido family.
As you may imagine, Gaido's has seen its fair share of famous faces over the years, with presidents and entertainers enjoying meals at the restaurant. But, just as necessary are the thousands of families who have made Gaido's a part of their annual traditions, celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and retirements here year after year.
It's not just the food that has stood the test of time at Gaido's, but also the way it's prepared. They still peel the Gulf shrimp, shuck Galveston bay oysters, and fillet fresh fish by hand, the same way Cinto did more than 100 years ago. And the recipes used in the unique sauces, seasonings, salad dressings, and delicious desserts are all house-made and passed down from generation to generation. In addition, Gaido's has incorporated traditional southern deep-frying, Southwest open-flame grilling, and rich Creole flavors, creating a menu and an experience that is truly unique and delicious.
But, Gaido's story isn't just about seafood and good food. It's also about family, tradition, and a love for the island of Galveston. Cinto's journey to Galveston began in the late 19th century when he followed his older brother, Joe Prino, to the island after Joe fell in love with Francesca Gaido. The Gaido family struggled to make a living in Galveston, but Cinto saw an opportunity in the food service industry while Galveston was ramping up to be a tourist destination. He worked at various restaurants before opening a sandwich shop in 1911 and, eventually, Gaido's Seafood Restaurant. Despite the difficult early years, the Gaido family fell in love with Galveston, the warmer weather, and the community of other Italian immigrants who made the island their home.
Today, Gaido's is run by the 4th generation of the Gaido family, and their commitment to quality and tradition remains as strong as ever. The Gaido family motto, "Learn what is wanted and then serve," it's a motto that has served them well for over a century. And that's why Gaido's is truly a coastal classic. This beloved institution is set to serve the freshest seafood and create memories for generations to come. And don't forget the Pecan Pie!