With so many eateries to choose from, you may not know that your local restaurant often provides the most rewarding experience for diners. Whether you want a light lunch or something more hearty, visiting an independent restaurant is likely the best way to taste creative new recipes or favorites dishes. The guide below highlights some of the benefits of dining locally.

Why Visit Local Restaurants?

1. Fresh Food Tastes Better

Unlike large chains, local restaurants are likely to cook with local ingredients. Fresh produce, meat, and seafood contain more nutrients and taste more flavorful than commercially grown fruits and vegetable since they don’t have to travel thousands of miles in a truck. The shorter transit times also mean a decreased chance of contamination, as well as fewer carbon emissions.

2. They Offer More Variety

Eating locally allows you to try dishes that aren’t available at national fast food locations. A local restaurant may be using special recipes passed down through their family or cook with ingredients that produce more flavor and variety. They’re also better equipped to provide seasonal dishes, as there’s less time between the farm and your plate.

3. You Get to Support the Local Economy

Patronizing local businesses keeps money in the community. The restaurant owner can hire more employees, and the local farmers and suppliers can remain in business and continue providing high-quality products. Supporting local farmers also has environmental benefits, as they can sustain open green spaces rather than sell them to land developers.

When you’re looking for a local restaurant with delicious food and live music, head over to Papa Rocco’s in Gulf Shores, AL. Stop by for happy hour and stay for dinner. They serve fresh oysters, pizza, and drinks at the bar and will keep your group entertained throughout the evening. Call (251) 948-7262 to speak with a member of their staff or check out the menu online.