The Prime Rib at This Little Texas Steakhouse Lives Up to the Hype

Tucked along Highway 35 North in Rockport, Texas, Old Fulton Seafood Cafe & Steakhouse sits in an unassuming strip center, quietly serving up some of the most memorable prime rib on the Gulf Coast.

Travelers cruising through this coastal town often stumble upon this gem by word of mouth or glowing online reviews, drawn by promises of perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood that rival any high-end establishment.

Every bite feels like a celebration, whether you’re a local regular or a road-tripping foodie. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between relaxed and refined, making you feel right at home even if it’s your first visit.

Ready to discover why this little steakhouse has people coming back year after year?

Prime Rib That Earns Its Reputation

Thursday nights at Old Fulton transform into a carnivore’s paradise when the prime rib special takes center stage. Regulars mark their calendars for this weekly event, and first-timers quickly understand why after the first forkful.

Cooked low and slow to lock in juices, each cut arrives at your table with a beautiful caramelized crust that gives way to rosy, tender meat underneath.

Seasoning stays simple because quality beef doesn’t need fancy tricks. Salt, pepper, and time do all the heavy lifting here.

What sets this prime rib apart is the precision in preparation. Overcooked steak becomes a chewy disappointment, but the kitchen team nails the temperature every single time.

Whether you prefer yours medium rare or closer to medium, they deliver exactly what you ordered. The meat practically falls apart under your knife, releasing savory juices that pool on the plate and beg to be soaked up with that incredible house bread.

Portions run generous without being wasteful, striking that sweet spot where you feel satisfied but not uncomfortably stuffed. Pairing options include classic loaded baked potatoes with all the fixings or seasonal vegetables sauteed to crisp-tender perfection.

Some diners swear by adding Oscar-style toppings with crab and hollandaise, creating an indulgent surf-and-turf experience that elevates an already stellar dish.

For travelers seeking that quintessential Texas steakhouse moment, this prime rib delivers without pretense, proving that strip mall locations can house serious culinary talent when passion meets skill in the kitchen.

Fresh Gulf Seafood Done Right

Coastal location means access to the freshest catches, and Old Fulton takes full advantage of its proximity to Gulf waters. Red drum, flounder, and snapper rotate through the menu based on what boats bring in, ensuring peak freshness with every order.

Blackened red fish arrives with a spicy crust that contrasts beautifully against flaky white meat, while the Red Drum Rockefeller gets topped with creamy hollandaise and spinach for a richer presentation. Each preparation method highlights rather than masks the natural flavors of quality seafood.

Fried options don’t disappoint either, with cod arriving hot and crispy in golden batter that stays crunchy from first bite to last. Grilled choices showcase simplicity at its finest, letting the fish shine with just a squeeze of lemon and butter.

Shrimp preparations range from classic scampi to coconut-crusted varieties, each version executed with care and attention to texture. Baked scallops appear frequently in customer conversations, though opinions vary on preparation preferences.

What makes the seafood program truly shine is the willingness to experiment beyond typical Gulf Coast offerings. Lobster makes occasional appearances for those seeking something extra special, while daily specials keep the menu exciting for repeat visitors.

Presentation matters here too, with pretty plating that shows respect for both the ingredient and the diner.

For travelers exploring Texas coastal cuisine, this restaurant demonstrates how seafood restaurants can honor tradition while still bringing creativity to the table, making every meal feel like a celebration of Gulf bounty.

Appetizers Worth Slowing Down For

Starting a meal properly sets the tone for everything that follows, and Old Fulton’s appetizer lineup deserves its own spotlight. Crab cakes arrive golden and crispy on the outside while staying moist and packed with sweet lump crab inside, with minimal filler letting the seafood take center stage.

Escargot cooked in garlic butter provides a classic French bistro experience that feels surprisingly at home in this Texas coastal setting. Each bite delivers rich, savory flavors that prime your palate for the main event ahead.

Oysters Rockefeller showcase plump Gulf oysters topped with creamy spinach mixture and baked until bubbly, creating textural contrast between the tender mollusk and crispy topping.

Cold shrimp cocktail takes a nontraditional approach, arriving more like a salad than the typical glass presentation, with slightly sweet sauce that divides opinions but wins over most who try it.

Calamari comes perfectly tender, avoiding the rubbery texture that plagues lesser versions, with light breading that doesn’t overwhelm the delicate squid.

The real secret weapon might be the complimentary bread basket that arrives shortly after you’re seated. Warm, freshly baked loaves come with butter, and multiple reviews mention this bread with almost religious reverence.

Crusty exterior gives way to soft, pillowy interior that’s dangerously addictive. Pacing becomes important because filling up on bread means less room for everything else, though resisting temptation proves nearly impossible.

These starters demonstrate kitchen skill across multiple techniques, from frying to baking to delicate seafood handling.

Atmosphere That Surprises and Delights

Strip center locations rarely inspire confidence for fine dining experiences, yet Old Fulton defies every expectation the moment you step inside. Nautical touches throughout the space include beautifully crafted ship replicas and maritime decor that transport diners away from the parking lot outside.

Lighting stays warm and inviting without being too dim, creating ambiance suitable for both romantic dinners and family celebrations. Cloth napkins add a touch of refinement while the overall vibe remains approachable and comfortable.

Seating options include indoor dining and a patio area for those gorgeous Texas evenings when Gulf breezes make outdoor meals irresistible. Tables space out enough to allow conversation without overhearing neighbors, though the restaurant fills up quickly during peak hours, especially on prime rib Thursdays.

Reservations come highly recommended, particularly for weekend visits when both tourists and locals pack the dining room. Wait times can stretch to twenty minutes or more without advance planning.

Connected to the Cross-Eyed Martini bar next door, the restaurant benefits from an extensive cocktail program that rivals standalone lounges. Decorative elements show attention to detail without veering into theme restaurant territory, maintaining sophistication while celebrating coastal heritage.

The overall effect creates a space where flip-flops feel as welcome as dress shoes, embodying that relaxed Gulf Coast spirit.

For those seeking memorable meals without stuffiness, this atmosphere delivers perfectly, proving that exceptional dining experiences don’t require white tablecloths or formal dress codes to feel special and worth the visit.

Service That Makes You Feel Like Family

Servers at Old Fulton consistently earn praise across hundreds of reviews, with names like Darren, Chris, Donna, and Andrea appearing repeatedly in glowing testimonials. Attentive without hovering, the staff seems to possess an intuitive sense of timing, checking in at exactly the right moments.

New servers receive thorough training that shows in their confidence and knowledge, even when they’re still learning the ropes. Recommendations come from genuine experience rather than scripted upselling, helping diners navigate the extensive menu with ease.

Bartenders bring their own expertise, crafting cocktails with skill and engaging guests in friendly conversation that enhances the overall experience.

When mistakes happen, management responds immediately and personally, with the owner Janis often visiting tables to ensure satisfaction and address concerns directly.

This hands-on approach creates accountability and shows genuine care for guest experiences. Recovery from small kitchen errors happens swiftly and graciously, turning potential disappointments into opportunities to demonstrate excellent customer service.

The hostess receives special mentions for warmth and genuine hospitality, setting a positive tone from the moment guests arrive. Pacing can slow during busy periods when the kitchen gets backed up, but servers communicate clearly about timing rather than leaving diners wondering.

For travelers accustomed to rushed service or indifferent staff, this level of attention feels refreshing and memorable.

The team operates like a well-oiled machine even during peak hours, coordinating seamlessly to ensure every table receives proper care and attention throughout their meal, creating experiences that turn first-time visitors into annual traditions.

Desserts That Demand Attention

Saving room for dessert at Old Fulton isn’t optional, it’s mandatory once you hear about the options. Carrot cake earns almost cult-like devotion from regulars, with multiple reviewers declaring it the best they’ve ever tasted.

Made in-house rather than ordered from suppliers, this version skips the raisins that divide carrot cake fans, focusing instead on perfect ratios of nuts, cream cheese frosting, moist cake, and fresh carrots. Each layer balances sweetness with spice, creating complexity that elevates this classic comfort dessert.

White chocolate bread pudding provides another decadent option, with rich custard-soaked bread and sweet white chocolate creating indulgent harmony. Cobbler arrives warm with fruit filling that changes seasonally, topped with buttery crust that begs for a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Key lime pie makes appearances with beautiful presentation and that perfect balance of tart and sweet that defines this Florida Keys classic. Portions run generous enough to share, which many couples do after filling up on appetizers and entrees.

The decision to make desserts in-house rather than outsourcing shows commitment to quality that extends beyond the main menu. Presentation rivals the prettiest pastry shop displays, with careful plating that makes you pause before diving in with your fork.

For travelers with a sweet tooth, these desserts provide the perfect punctuation to an already memorable meal. Even when you think you’re too full, somehow there’s always room for just a few bites of something sweet, especially when the options reach this level of craftsmanship and flavor.

Rockport’s Coastal Charm Beyond the Plate

Visiting Old Fulton becomes even better when you understand the town surrounding it. Rockport thrives as a fishing village turned artist community, where shrimping boats still work the bays and galleries line quaint downtown streets.

Birders flock here year-round to spot whooping cranes and countless other species that make the Texas coastal bend a migration hotspot. Bay waters stay calmer than open Gulf beaches, creating ideal conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and peaceful waterfront strolls along scenic harbors.

Local culture embraces that laid-back coastal lifestyle where flip-flops count as formal wear and fresh seafood appears on every menu. Art walks happen monthly, showcasing local talent in mediums from painting to sculpture to photography.

The pace slows considerably compared to nearby Corpus Christi, attracting visitors who want to unwind rather than party. Campgrounds and RV parks dot the area, making Rockport a favorite destination for road-trippers exploring the Texas coast.

Proximity to Aransas Pass and Port Aransas means easy day trips to barrier islands and additional dining options, though many visitors find everything they need right in Rockport proper. Historic buildings mix with newer developments, maintaining character without feeling frozen in time.

After dinner at Old Fulton, evening walks along the waterfront provide the perfect way to settle a full stomach while watching spectacular sunsets paint the sky in orange and pink.

The restaurant fits perfectly into this community, embodying the same welcoming spirit and quality-focused approach that defines Rockport itself, making both the town and the meal worth the detour for anyone traveling the Texas Gulf Coast.

Steaks Beyond Prime Rib

While prime rib steals the spotlight on Thursdays, the regular steak menu holds its own any night of the week. Ribeyes arrive with beautiful marbling that renders during cooking, creating buttery texture and deep beefy flavor that needs nothing more than salt and pepper.

Cooked to precise temperatures based on your preference, these cuts showcase quality beef sourcing and skilled grill work. Strip steaks offer a leaner option for those who prefer less fat, while still delivering satisfying flavor and tenderness.

Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin provides an alternative to traditional beef cuts, with smoky bacon complementing the mild pork perfectly. Each preparation respects the protein rather than drowning it in heavy sauces, though Oscar-style additions remain available for those wanting extra richness.

Sides elevate rather than just accompany, with loaded baked potatoes, fresh vegetables, and seasonal options that round out the plate. Portions satisfy hearty appetites without venturing into wasteful territory.

The kitchen maintains consistency across visits, which matters enormously when building trust with returning customers. Occasional overcooking happens, as it does anywhere, but the willingness to remake dishes immediately shows commitment to standards.

Steak lovers traveling through Texas expect quality beef, and this restaurant delivers on those expectations reliably. Prices align with the quality and portion sizes, offering fair value rather than trying to compete on cheapest options.

For travelers seeking that classic American steakhouse experience with a coastal twist, these preparations hit all the right notes, proving the restaurant excels beyond just its famous prime rib special nights.

Why This Hidden Gem Deserves Your Visit

Discovering Old Fulton feels like being let in on a delicious secret that locals have been keeping to themselves. The combination of consistently excellent food, welcoming service, and comfortable atmosphere creates experiences that turn casual visitors into devoted regulars.

Anniversary celebrations, birthday dinners, and special occasions find the perfect setting here, where staff treat every meal like it matters. Value extends beyond just portion sizes to encompass the entire experience from greeting to goodbye.

Location in a strip center might not inspire confidence initially, but that humble exterior houses serious culinary talent and genuine hospitality. The restaurant proves that great dining doesn’t require pretentious settings or inflated prices, just dedication to quality and care for guests.

Repeat visitors return year after year during Rockport trips, building traditions around meals that never disappoint. Menu variety means you could visit multiple times without exhausting options, though many guests order the same favorites repeatedly.

For road-trippers exploring the Texas coast, this stop provides a highlight worth planning your route around. Whether you’re camping nearby, staying in local accommodations, or just passing through, the detour proves worthwhile every single time.

Operating hours from three to nine in the evening Tuesday through Saturday mean planning ahead, but the reward justifies the effort.

From that first warm bread basket to the last bite of carrot cake, every element combines to create meals that stick in memory long after you’ve returned home, making Old Fulton Seafood Cafe & Steakhouse a true destination restaurant that lives up to every bit of hype surrounding it.

Address: 2828 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX 78382