The Fascinating History of Papa Rocco's
Locals and visitors alike know that Gulf Shores, Alabama’s best-kept secret is a restaurant and bar just one block from the beach. Serving pizza and seafood, Papa Rocco’s is an authentic spot to unwind with friends. Bill McGinnes has owned and operated the establishment for over 25 years without taking more than a long weekend off. Here’s more about the restaurant’s background and why Bill’s customers rely on “Papa” to make each visit a special treat.
The Story of Papa Rocco's
Origins in the 80s
Bill “Papa” McGinnes fell in love with a stilted building just off the pristine beaches of Gulf Shores in the mid-1980s. He bought the place, which was already being used as a cafe, and reopened it as Papa Rocco’s. An engineer from Detroit, Bill decided to break all the rules and turn the restaurant into the kind of bar and grill he had always dreamed of.
Loyalty to the Classics
When Bill announced his plans to stay true to his favorite menu items, area residents teased him. He knew, however, that everyone loves a delicious pizza and fresh-caught oysters and that the combination wasn’t as silly as it sounded. Sure enough, by sticking with these two classic dishes, customers began to flock to the bar and restaurant.
Comfortable Settings & a Sense of Humor
Even though Papa Rocco’s quickly gained a reputation for offering delicious food, it didn’t stop “Papa” from coming up with a tongue-in-cheek catchphrase. Advertising “Warm Beer and Lousy Pizza,” the bar and restaurant cemented their role as a laid-back place with a sense of humor. Comfortable and inviting, the hot spot proudly offers daily happy hour specials and live music every night.
The history of the Alabama Gulf Coast’s most beloved restaurant and bar offers a lot of insight into their popularity. With a world-class menu, top entertainment acts, and hospitality provided by “Papa” himself, Papa Rocco’s should be on every traveler’s must-visit list. Stop in for fresh seafood, superb appetizers, and traditional hand-tossed pizza. Browse the menu online or call (251) 948-7262 today.
About the Business
