



About
Located next door to the Grand Opera House on the Strand is Rudy & Paco Restaurant and Bar. This elegant establishment has made a name for itself. Here, you will find innovation and perfected recipes with Latin flavor. Additionally, you can look forward to top-tier service!
Paco's story in the restaurant industry began over 25 years ago. After immigrating to the U.S. from Nicaragua, Rudy hired Paco as a busboy. From there, he moved into the kitchen and continued to climb the ladder. His work ethic brought him an excellent reputation and opened many doors. Fast-forward to today: Paco owns Rudy & Paco following Rudy's passing. In addition, Paco created Vargas, the restaurant across the street.
Vibe
The exterior of this dining hotspot is understated and blends with Strand's historic charm. Step inside, and the warm lighting, crisp white tablecloths, candles, and tasteful artwork will embrace you. Such decor creates a sophisticated yet warm dining environment.
The ambiance is intimate and upscale, perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening. The attentive service and dress code add to the exclusivity. To begin, your waiter will bring plantain chips and a mouthwatering chimichurri sauce to the table.
Located next to The Grand 1894 Opera House, it’s a popular pre-show dining spot. Here, its South and Central American influences are reflected in its vibrant yet polished aesthetic, making it a must for fine dining in Galveston.
Rudy & Paco Restaurant and Bar: Menu & Drinks
This restaurant is consistently recognized for its excellent food. Of course, their service standard has also set them apart. Here are just a few of their recent accomplishment:
- Named one of the 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America by OpenTable
- Awarded Top 100 Restaurants in 2017 by OpenTable
- Awarded #2 of 180 Restaurants in Galveston by TripAdvisor
- "Faces of Diversity Award" awarded to Paco by the National Restaurant Association. This award celebrates Paco for achieving the American Dream through perseverance and determination.
Pelo de Angel features grilled chicken breast and angel hair pasta tossed in a tomato-basil cream sauce. The house-made tomato basil cream sauce is the perfect complement to the chicken and pasta. Your taste buds will thank you for this!
Paco's Signature Lobster Tempura will be the star of the table. One pound of lobster tempura is tossed in a sweet & tangy sauce. Served open face in a lobster tail, it's sure to impress. Note: Order this if your table has an appetite; the portion is large enough for everyone to share.
Pollo Empanizado features plantain-encrusted chicken breast over a black bean sauce. The mixture features queso blanco, maduros, yucca, and sour cream. This is a signature dish and crowd favorite at Rudy & Paco's.
Additionally, one notable feature of this restaurant is its wine club. For an annual fee of $1,000, you can attend two tastings a month. Additionally, you can purchase bottles at market price. That's quite a deal for wine lovers!
When your Texas getaway requires Latin-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting, make a reservation at Rudy & Paco Restaurant and Bar.
Local Tips
- Reservations are highly recommended.
- Shorts are not allowed in main dining room at dinner, but are accepted at the bar and at lunchtime.
- Restaurant is closed from 2:00-5:00 PM between lunch and dinner services.
- 18% Gratuity is added to parties of 6 and more.
- Split checks are not allowed.