We came to Marshside Grill on a Friday for lunch in the off-season. It’s one of the few times we didn’t have to wait for a table. This place is just that good. With killer views of the marsh overlooking Saint Simons Island and Jekyll Island, Marshside has some of the freshest seafood around. And they’ve been serving it up for more than 20 years!
We tend to fall into a rut when eating at places that are this good. Today was no different. I ordered my usual: the grouper sandwich. It is a very generous hunk of grouper served fried, blackened, or grilled on a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese. Cheese!!? Yes. Oh yes. It’s what McDonald’s Filet-o-Fish® wishes it was.
You can taste the freshness in all of the seafood here. Cassie absolutely loves the Buffalo shrimp; they are tender and perfectly spiced, paired with blue cheese dressing, ranch, and celery sticks. I always end up stealing one or two of hers because they are so fresh and so good! If you’re a fan of grits, the grits here are top-notch. They are so warm and creamy, I’m not sure if they are steel-cut, but they are excellent in one way or another.
One of the reasons we keep coming back is Marshside’s reputation for serving some of the freshest seafood in the Golden Isles, especially their shrimp. The peel-and-eat shrimp is legendary—served warm with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and melted butter—it’s the kind of dish you might happily eat way more than needed.
Over the years, we’ve tried many dishes at Marshside, and I’ve never had a bad meal. Friends rave about the fried oysters, while those craving variety often opt for the Full Moon Platter or Combo Platter, both loaded with an assortment of seafood favorites. Even if seafood isn’t your thing, there’s no need to worry—Marshside also offers non-seafood entrées, along with burgers, soups, salads, daily specials, a kids’ menu, and even a full bar.
Part of what makes Marshside so appealing is its casual, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals, perfect for lunch with friends and larger families or gatherings. While it stays comfortably lively, it never feels overwhelming—except, of course, during football season, when UGA games bring an extra layer of energy.
In short, Marshside Grill is more than just a restaurant; it’s a quintessential Golden Isles experience. Fresh seafood, friendly service, a laid-back atmosphere, and unforgettable views all come together to create a spot worth visiting again and again.
Set just off Highway 17, right before or after the Sidney Lanier Bridge depending on your direction, Marshside Grill is one of those hidden gems you don’t want to miss. The restaurant sits literally on the marsh, giving diners a front-row view of the serene waters and abundant wildlife. Conveniently tucked between Southeastern Adventures—where you can take a kayak or a boat trip—and Coastal Tide Excursions—famous for the eco-tourism excursions on the shrimp trawler Lady Jane—Marshside Grill offers the perfect spot to enjoy a meal before or after exploring the area.
Marshside Grill
1200 Glynn Ave, Brunswick, GA 31520
Monday – Saturday 11am – 9pm | Sunday 11am – 3pm
MarshsideGrill.com