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Welcome To The Gnarly Marlin
The Gnarly Marlin, located in Rockport, TX, offers a delightful culinary experience with waterfront views and a vibrant atmosphere. Known for its attentive service and a diverse menu, the restaurant impresses with standout dishes like the flavorful Cuban sandwich and the succulent NOLA BBQ shrimp. Diners appreciate the spacious seating and inviting patio, perfect for enjoying fresh catches like the expertly pan-seared flounder. Local favorites, including the tangy Top Shelf Margarita and hearty appetizers, enhance the experience. With friendly staff and a commitment to customer satisfaction, The Gnarly Marlin is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers and casual diners alike.
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About
The Gnarly Marlin
Welcome to The Gnarly Marlin, a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque Rockport, Texas, where coastal charm meets culinary delight. Located at 2796 TX-35 BUS, this waterfront spot invites food lovers to indulge in a diverse menu while basking in the stunning views of the water. They can even accommodate your boat—talk about convenience!
This vibrant eatery has garnered attention for its commitment to quality service and flavorful dishes. Guests rave about the attentive staff, who work diligently even during busy nights. One satisfied customer shared how their waiter went above and beyond by taking half the bill off after a longer-than-usual wait. In the midst of bustling crowds, this level of customer care truly stands out.
The menu offers a delightful array of options, with standout dishes that make dining here a must. From Cuban sandwiches packed with flavor to the Nola BBQ shrimp that has been described as "outstanding," there's something to tickle every palate. One reviewer highlighted the delicious clam chowder, while another marveled at the expertly prepared pan-seared flounder complemented by creamy Parmesan risotto—a dish that showcases the chef’s skill.
This restaurant's atmosphere is equally impressive. Whether you prefer the spacious indoor seating or the inviting patio overlooking the water, each setting provides a cozy yet lively dining experience. Customers have praised the ambiance, noting that it’s perfect for both casual outings and special occasions, like anniversary celebrations.
Of course, no meal would be complete without a refreshing drink. The signature Top Shelf Margarita is a crowd favorite, perfectly balancing tangy lemon-lime flavors—ideal for pairing with any dish. And let's not forget the desserts, like the creative Malabo, a refreshing mix of ice cream and Bacardi that rounds out the culinary adventure.
The Gnarly Marlin represents the true essence of Rockport’s culinary scene: a blend of great food, outstanding service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s a casual bite after a day on the water or a memorable meal with friends, this restaurant has quickly become a beloved spot in the community. Plan your visit today and find out why regulars can’t wait to return!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ We went on a rather busy night and they were short staffed, which were kind of used to anyways now a days so that was not a problem for us. Needless to say it took a long time to get our food. Our waiter was very attentive and apologetic. Even took off half of our bill for the inconvenience. We ordered the Cuban and the Philly. The Cuban was delicious! It was very hearty on the meat and such good flavor. The Philly was good but it didn’t have a lot of meat in it. ”
“ This restaurant was outstanding! We ordered the clam chowder, Nola bbq shrimp, and friend pickles. The Nola shrimp was my favorite!! Atmosphere was great. They were Fully staffed with employees. Service was outstanding. The chef, Phillip, even came over and asked for feedback & suggestions. I highly recommend. You can even park your boat here. ”
“ We loved our experience at the Gnarly Marlin. We got a spot near the window, looking out on the water. It had just rained or we would have sat outside on their gorgeous patio area. We tried the Top Shelf Marg on the Rocks, very tangy - heavy lemon lime flavor which was perfect and refreshing. Our food was delicious, the catch of the day was flounder which we each tried. Pan seared flounder was excellently prepared. It came with Parmesan risotto and asparagus. Only thing I’d change was the risotto - just needed to be cooked a bit longer and seasoned more. Service was wonderful. Anjelica took great care of us, timely water refills and speedy delivery of our food. Thanks again! We can’t wait to come back! ”
“ I finally had the opportunity to come visit. Nice location on the water with a view. Good parking. Inside seating was very spacious, and the bar has good seating. Came in a little after lunch on a Tuesday, just a handful of visitors. Food was really good. I'll be back to try more. ”
“ First visit for our 14 year anniversary. Absolutely loved it. Atmosphere was nice, not too packed and a nice patio on the water to eat outside. Little bar inside with a good amount of screens to watch the fights. The Mexican shrimp cocktail was great loads of shrimp! The two of us shared but probably could have shared with our kids too. Then we got the Moo, cluck pork or something like that was delicious and burger is well done unless you specify other wise, and the other was the pork Cubano my favorite so far. Both served with fries. For desert we ordered the Malabo an ice cream and Bacardi mixture a little bland flavor was all in the fruit on top but not bad for about 8. Think next time I’d ask for a flavored Bacardi like a coconut or pineapple. The staff was wonderful everyone was helpful and working together. Overall great experience will definitely return. Appetizers, two drinks with refills, two entrees with side, and two after meal adult beverages- All under 80. ”
“ Excellent place to take the family! Service was friendly and the menu allowed for mix and match of smaller and larger plates to share. We loved the huge basket of fried pickles and the seared tuna was fresh and cooked perfectly rare! The skillet brownie with ice cream was a fun surprise for the kiddos who inhaled it in minutes. One last applause...I am a VERY picky margarita professional and this place did not disappoint in getting my high-maintenance order exactly right! We love Rockport and are thrilled with this new dining addition! ”
“ I’m not from the local area but was very glad that I found this place! I actually pulled into the parking lot to make a call while working this area (I live 3.5 hours away) and was hungry, only to realize I’d pulled into this eatery. So glad I did as this was one of the best lunch meals I’ve had whilst on the road! The chicken fried steak was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of seasonings, and the mashed potatoes and green beans were delicious! Very nice view of the water! Definitely a place you should try! I’ll definitely be back! Thank you! And I tip my hat to the chef! ”
“ Little bit of Lake Travis in the house! Great new waterfront restaurant and bar in Rockport. Beyond seafood they have a Philly Cheese steak that would make a yankee happy. Upscale bar drink options along with the local stuff from the sea. Service was great... they’re just up and running so I gave them the 5th star knowing the challenge to get to the standards I know of them from Austin. Worth a try ”