Dee’s Hangout has been doing Southern, coastal and Cajun food long enough that it is more of a local institution than a restaurant recommendation. It sits over on Richard Jackson Boulevard, about ten minutes from the house, with a casual, come-as-you-are patio that suits a group straight off the beach, sand and all. Get the peel-and-eat shrimp or the seafood gumbo if you want the food to do the talking, and do not skip the hush puppies. Portions are generous and prices are fair for the area, which is not always a given this close to the water. It fills up during peak dinner hours in summer, so either go early, around 5, or expect a short wait with a drink in hand. There is usually live music on weekends, low key, more background than event. It is a good pick for a night when the group wants real food without dressing up or driving far, and it is casual enough to bring kids straight from the pool without anyone worrying about it.
