Rudy & Paco in Galveston

Rudy & Paco has an elegant-yet-cozy vibe that affirms its status as one of Open Table’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants of 2018.

We ordered a couple cocktails to start. I had an “Island Old Fashioned” which was fine. I think I just wanted a traditional old fashioned to be honest. Erin had some kind of martini that was absolutely fantastic. Peach? I don’t remember, but I got one too.

First and foremost: this bread. Warm. Flaky. Sensual. There was a discernible crust, but it shattered under the slightest bite pressure. One of my top 10 most romantic bread experiences.

Next: A big ol’ crab cake. Toothsome chunks of crab in a creamy sauce. The only weird thing here was the corn kernels embedded inside, which IMO would be at more home in a casserole.

I had the scallops, which I admit don’t look super appetizing in this picture, but they were very nice. Lightly seared, buttery soft, with a hint of brine.

Erin’s entre was good, but nothing to write home about. They need to up their brussel sprout game to compete these days.

I should also mention: service was great and the quiet ambiance was conducive to intimate conversation. I would make a point of going back here on a return trip to Galveston.

4.5 Aemon Stars