Ophelia’s — Restaurant in Galveston

Ophelia's Soul Food Restaurant is one of Galveston's finest local eateries that should be included on your "Things to Do" list whether you are a local or tourist.

This is a family-owned restaurant owned by fourth-generation Mr. Edward Benjamin Jr., affectionately known as "Peppa" and located at 3104 Market Street in Galveston, Texas.

In addition to its authentic and savory Creole and Soul Food cuisine, friendly staff, and excellent service, they offer vegan options as well! As soon as you walk in you can immediately sense its spirit, the vibe of the customers who are engaged and relaxed, and warm hospitality from their attentive staff. It is a relaxed atmosphere that requires you to unburden the need to rush about your day.

After sitting, you are drawn to the photo gallery gracing its walls transporting you through the history of Mr. Benjamin's family, Galveston's African American community and restaurant history in Galveston. Another photo gallery tells the story of Mr. Benjamin's life as a Merchant Marine/ Seaman and his travels throughout America and the world with special emphasis on Antarctica.

We were honored to meet Mr. Benjamin who sat with us to talk about his interesting pathway to opening Ophelia's Soul Food Restaurant and his beautiful and resilient family history.

I highly recommend dining at Ophelia's Soul Food Restaurant when you are seeking the comfort of excellent Southern home cooking, calming your spirit, and learn about the rich contributions of African American businesses and cultural history and its impact on the success of Galveston Island! You will not be...

So the CUSTOMER SERVICE was TOP TIER. I honestly think this experience was one of the best customer service I have ever encountered. If you follow my reviews, you know I am always going to tell it like it is...so for me to say that...it was TIER 1. Privately owned...owners took the orders and cooked the food...im talking about Fresh and crispy fish and shrimp..the fish was thick and flaky fish with crispy skin and shrimp big and crunchy....my oh my 😋...seasoned to perfection 👌 👍🏽. Unfortunately, I can not say that about the sides...greens were too salty to eat, but ...Mac n cheese no flavor...yams were just ok... Chicken wings were good, too...just cooked a bit too dark. The meats were EVERYTHING! ALSO, the home desserts....WOWWWW! 🔥 so even though I didn't care for the sides I got..I would still visit again...as a matter Of fact I AM going to visit again when I go back to Galveston...I will just try different sides as they had loads of options...but back to the customer service! The couple was soooo personable...talked with myself and my nieces the entire time.. laughed and gave us GENEROUS portions....will definitely see them again. Oh...it was also NEAT AND...

If you’re ever in Galveston and craving catfish, Ophelia’s Restaurant is a must-visit! I stumbled upon this gem when I was looking for a quick bite after another restaurant nearby was cash-only, and I couldn’t be more thrilled I did. After reading a glowing review about the catfish, I decided to give it a try—and let me tell you, the review did not lie.

From the moment I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the owner, Pepper, who made me feel right at home. His laid-back and friendly demeanor set the tone for an amazing experience. He recommended the fish and shrimp platter, and I’m so glad I took his advice. The portions are huge, and both the catfish and shrimp were seasoned to perfection—so flavorful, and crispy without being greasy. It was exactly what I had been craving.

Not only was the food top-notch, but the level of hospitality you get here is hard to come by in the area. It has that hometown feel that makes you want to come back, unlike the more touristy chain spots on the Seawall. If you want great food and a genuine, welcoming experience, Ophelia’s should be at the top of your list. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m...