Where to go for dinner and drinks
Tom & Jerry's at 3212 Padre Boulevard is the easy mixed-table choice. Its own menu moves from steaks, seafood, and burgers to pizza, salads, shrimp tacos, and a children's section, with a full bar alongside. Pick it when “bar and grill” means dinner for people ordering very different things.
Padre Island Brewing Company at 3400 Padre Boulevard makes more sense when house-made beer is part of the meal. The brewery's site pairs its beer with burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and seafood. It is a useful alternative to a waterfront table when the group wants a pub-style dinner without making the night about a show.
For the bay, head to West Palm Street. Lobo Del Mar Cafe is at the end of Palm Street on Laguna Madre Bay; nearby LongBoard Bar & Grill describes itself as a waterfront restaurant and entertainment venue at 205 W. Palm. Those are good starting points when sunset or being close to live entertainment matters as much as the menu.
If the evening turns into music, use live-music venues. For a particular game, Louie's sports bar guide is the more specific choice. Restaurant menus and service plans change, so use the linked operator menu for a dish that matters to your group.