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MARKET BY THE BAY, Daphne
Welcome to MARKET BY THE BAY, Daphne, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Daphne, Alabama. Located at 29145 US-98, this delightful eatery stands out for its warm atmosphere and friendly service, often making patrons feel like part of the family. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted not just with a smile, but with a vibrant display of homemade treats that beckon to be tried.
As a food reviewer with an appreciation for hearty and flavorful cuisine, I was particularly taken by the rave reviews highlighting the robust dishes here. The gumbo, described as “rich and flavorful,” is a must-try, offering a comforting warmth that perfectly embodies Southern hospitality. Diners rave about the fried shrimp, lightly battered for a crisp texture, a testament to the chef's skill in balancing flavor without overpowering the main ingredients.
In their welcoming environment, you can enjoy a range of dishes, from blackened shrimp to Alabama Crab Cake Stack, complemented by sides such as cheese grits and hush puppies. One patron shared their delight in the bountiful portions, noting the generous servings of shrimp in both the shrimp basket and poboy. This abundance makes every meal here feel like a true celebration of Gulf Coast cuisine.
The ambiance at MARKET BY THE BAY is equally notable; they offer a variety of seating options, both indoors and outdoors. The décor is tasteful, contributing to an inviting space where community and delicious food unite. While it can get crowded during peak hours, the experience remains well worth it. Dining here is enhanced by attentive service, as reviewers frequently mention the staff’s promptness and friendliness, which adds a personal touch to your meal.
Don't miss out on indulging in their desserts—especially the key lime pie, as recommended by a thrilled young diner. Each visit seems to reveal a new delight to savor, and I have no doubt that I will return to sample as much as I can from their appealing menu.
Overall, MARKET BY THE BAY, Daphne stands out not only for its scrumptious food and welcoming atmosphere but also for forming connections through its hospitality. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this eatery promises an experience that leaves you eager to return for more.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Friendly service, made us feel like family. We had the gumbo which was really hearty. Fried shrimp lightly battered, potato salad, turnip greens, hush puppies. We will definitely return! ”
“ WHAT IN THE YUM IS GOING ON HERE!!! We (embarrassingly) have never been here even after living in Daphne for 6 years. I am sad we waited!!! We all ordered a little something different: fried shrimp, blackened shrimp, blackened catfish, and chicken tenders...sides included cheese grits, fried okra, baked beans, deviled egg potato salad (holy yum), and hush puppies. Everything was amazing. We were stuffed but HAD to share an Oreo pie piece (that was our youngest’s pick) and next time I’m 110% trying the key lime pie - it looked like it was calling my name from the dessert display case. On top of the food, our server was so sweet. I didn’t get her name but she was on top of everything and just so very nice! Can’t wait to go back to Markey by the Bay! ”
“ Atmosphere This evening, the bar and restaurant offered plenty of seating options, both indoors and outdoors. However, it's worth noting that parking can become quite congested during peak times. As guests enter through the front doors, a hostess greets them on the left, while coolers filled with homemade treats are showcased on the right, next to the bar entrance. The venue features a variety of high-top and table seating, accommodating patrons of all kinds. Overall, the space was immaculate and tastefully decorated. Food We kicked off our dining experience with Hand-Battered Fried Pickles and Boudin Egg Rolls as appetizers. Each dish was accompanied by delightful dipping sauces that enhanced our enjoyment. For the main course, we opted for a selection of kids' meals (Hamburger and Grilled Shrimp) alongside adult platters that included Alabama Crab Cake Stack, Skewered Shrimp, and a Hamburger, paired with sides like Steak Fries, Cheddar Cheese Grits, Coleslaw, and a Side Salad. Our table preferred the slaw and grits and the seafood dishes. The only downside we encountered was the use of generic artificial sweeteners. While I understand this is a cost-saving measure, it was disappointing and didn’t compare to name-brand options, which detracted from my enjoyment of unsweet tea with my meal. Although we didn’t have room for dessert, I plan to return (with Splenda) to sample some of those delectable options. Service Throughout our visit, we interacted with one employee who served as both our hostess and server. She was incredibly helpful, answering questions about the menu and providing general information. Despite being busy, she efficiently kept all cups filled, delivered food promptly to each table, ensured order accuracy, and offered condiments, silverware, sauces, and extra plates. She was friendly, efficient, and attentive. ”
“ The service was really great and the my give you for a dozen shrimp for the shrimp basket where I saw I only get about 8 at others. The Poboy had generous amount of shrimp too as you can see in a picture. ... ”
“ Dined in w a friend, ordered oyster poboy and gumbo, totally LOVE both dishes! The oysters r huge and juicy, gumbo is rich and flavourful. Price point is v reasonable. Service is amazing. Will definitely visit again. ”
“ After stumbling on to this Jem not knowing that it would soon become on of my all time favorites I quickly decided to chronicle some of the magic that is commonplace here my enchantment started with a simple red beans and rice followed by turtle cheesecake and that’s all it took. I was hooked. From the vibe when I first entered and Deborah made me feel like a Local do you ever changing ever amazing dessert menu to the daily specials the market by the bay is truly wonderful. ”
“ If you haven’t tried this place you are missing out. Hubs said it was the best poboy he’s ever had (he tries them everywhere we go). I had fried shrimp with fries and fried okra. The shrimp was so tender, cooked perfectly! Cocktails were spot on, bartender has skills. Our server, Jenny, was perfect made it such a pleasant experience. We will definitely return!!! ”
“ Omg this was one of my favorite stops while in town on vacation. Nikki was an amazing server. Provided me with great suggestions I originally came in for the Bloody Mary, then we ordered the duck and seafood gumbo then calamari next the sampler dish with fish, crab, oysters and hush things (?) we then ended with an amazing coconut cheesecake. I will definitely be back again. ”