Palmetto Osteria — Restaurant in Galveston

Restaurant Review: Palmetto Osteria – Evia’s Coastal Culinary Crown Jewel

Tucked beneath the swaying palms and pastel charm of Galveston Island’s best-kept secret, the Evia neighborhood, sits a restaurant that doesn’t just serve dinner—it delivers an experience: Palmetto Osteria. If you haven’t been yet, you might want to check your priorities… or at least your taste buds.

This place is a culinary home run wrapped in focaccia and drizzled with basil oil. The moment you walk through the doors, you’re greeted like family—assuming your family serves Crab & Shrimp Scampi that could make a grown man tear up and Rigatoni Bolognese so good it should probably come with a warning label. It's upscale without being uptight, and every plate tells a story with an Italian accent and a Gulf Coast swagger.

Start off strong with the Burrata Caprese—a creamy, dreamy dish that whispers sweet nothings in basil oil. Then prepare yourself for the Hot & Naked bucatini pasta—yes, that’s the real name, and no, you don’t need to call HR. It’s a spicy seafood symphony with shrimp, mussels, calamari, and just enough Calabrian chili to make you sit up straight and text your friends, “Y’all gotta try this.”

Feeling fancy? The Swordfish Siciliano will transport your taste buds somewhere between Palermo and Pelican Island—flaky, flavorful, and surrounded by ingredients that know how to party: olives, pistachio pesto, lemon zest. You get the picture.

And dessert? The Tiramisu is as smooth and layered as a beachside sunset—simple, elegant, and the perfect excuse to linger just a little longer.

Now, let’s raise a glass. Palmetto Osteria proudly specializes in Italian wines that beautifully complement the menu, whether you’re in the mood for something bold, bright, or refreshingly crisp. And for those who lean cocktail over Chianti, their full-service bar has you covered—from refined classics to creative island twists, always poured with a smile.

But what really makes Palmetto Osteria special—besides the food, the wine, the desserts, the ambiance—is the vibe. It’s stylish but easy. Elegant, but never trying too hard. The staff doesn’t just serve you—they make you feel like you’ve been coming there for years.

And speaking of locals…

Look, in Evia, I'm kind of a big deal. I’ve been known to wrangle a sunset, out-grill a hurricane, and offer unsolicited menu advice in the golf cart lane. So when I tell you this place is worth every bite and every sip—you better believe it’s true.

Tell ‘em Cowboy...

Palmetto’s Italian Restaurant in Galveston is an absolute gem that delivers both charm and culinary excellence. From the moment you walk in, the warm and inviting atmosphere sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between coastal elegance and classic Italian comfort—soft lighting, tasteful décor, and an energy that feels both refined and welcoming.

The menu is thoughtfully curated, highlighting traditional Italian flavors with a modern touch. One standout is the lobster ravioli, delicately prepared with fresh pasta and a perfectly balanced sauce that showcases both richness and restraint. Each bite reflects the chef’s commitment to quality ingredients and attention to detail. I also recommend the meatball appetizer. If you are more of a pasta person, then order the truffle pasta!!

Service is attentive without being intrusive, and the staff is clearly passionate about creating a memorable evening for every guest. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Palmetto’s provides the kind of dining experience that lingers with you long after the meal is finished.

A true culinary treasure in Galveston—highly...

Jenny's energy and smile at the bar keep us coming back. She is warm welcoming and always consistent with her delivery of outstanding libations and hospitality. The restaurant has beautiful water views from almost every seat. We started with Fritto Misto tonight, which was delicately fried calamari and shrimp. Then we shared chicken picatta it was delicious and was light and full of fresh lemon and caper flavor. The menu is Mediterranean and filled with many options of seafood and pastas. We are addicted to the location the menu and the sunset views. We went back last night. The atmosphere was buzzing everyone was in island evening attire ready to enjoy! We had the Meatball for an appetizer and coming from an Italian family, I was shocked. It was hands done the best meatball I ever ate, dont tell my Grandmother! We also had the swordfish, it was served over an olive and caper reduction, and the Buccatini Carbonara. We are looking forward to trying every thing on the menu, it is so...