When you go out to eat you're met with a plethora of choices, but why bother with the nationwide chains when there are so many high-quality local restaurants available? Supporting your local businesses is a great way to give back to the community, and the restaurant locals flock to in Gulf Shores, AL, is none other than Papa Rocco's. Known for its delicious selection of food, unbeatable happy hour, and regular live music, Papa Rocco's has been a staple of the area since the '80s, serving up another reason to go local next time you go out.

For those wondering what the big deal is about supporting local restaurants, here are a few benefits to checking out the unique establishments your area has to offer: 

• Help the Community Grow & Retain Character: Local businesses have proven highly effective at community building, whether that be through the creation and expansion of town centers to the many charitable contributions these businesses make. Visiting local restaurants and stores is also a great way to strengthen the community socially and ensure it retains its own distinctive character. 
• Support Local Economy: When you buy something at a local business, there's a much better chance that your money will filter back out into the local economy. Public services tend to get more use from local stores, as well, and successful businesses promote further entrepreneurship in town. 
• Contribute to a More Sustainable Environment: A walkable town center consisting of a wide variety of small businesses is great for the environment, too. It cuts down on pollution and automobile use and encourages a healthy, more active lifestyle for residents. 
• Enjoy a More Diverse Selection of Products: Another plus of having a bunch of local restaurants and shops so close to one another is the healthy competition generated between them. This leads to innovation, lower prices, and a more diverse selection of products. 
• Continue to Create Local Jobs: Best of all, supporting local businesses means you're also supporting local people. As these businesses thrive, they're able to create more local jobs and even offer better benefits and wages than some of the chains out there. 

Beyond all that, the most significant pro to supporting your local restaurants is that there simply are no cons. It’s a win-win for all involved. If you're in the Gulf Shores area, take that support to Papa Rocco's for a taste of their People’s Choice Award-winning pizza and much more. Check them out online for a look at their famous menu and call them directly with any questions at (251) 948-7262.