If you’ve ever watched Forrest Gump, you already know Bubba’s love for shrimp runs deep—and that same energy carries right into Bubba Gump Shrimp Company.
On a recent trip to Mall of America, we decided to lean into the fun, grab a table, and see if this iconic, movie-themed restaurant lives up to the hype. Spoiler alert: if you love shrimp (and a little nostalgia), this place delivers.
Location & Atmosphere
Located right inside the Mall of America, Bubba Gump is hard to miss. Between the bright signage, movie quotes, and coastal vibes, it feels like you’ve stepped out of Minnesota and straight into a laid-back Southern shrimp shack.
There’s a lot going on here—in a good way. Expect:
- Forrest Gump trivia scattered throughout
- Fun, themed decor
- A lively, family-friendly atmosphere
And yes, the “Run Forrest Run” and “Stop Forrest Stop” signs on the tables are real—and actually pretty handy when you need your server.
What We Ate
Let’s get to the important part: the food.
Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail
We kicked things off with the jumbo shrimp cocktail, and this was a solid start. The shrimp were exactly what you want—plump, chilled, and fresh-tasting.
The cocktail sauce had just the right amount of kick without overpowering the shrimp. Simple, classic, and done right.
Forrest’s Seafood Feast
If you’re hungry, this is the move.
Forrest’s Seafood Feast is basically a greatest-hits platter of seafood, and it definitely lives up to its name. You get a variety of fried seafood (including shrimp, fish, and more), all cooked crispy without feeling overly greasy.
It’s the kind of dish where you keep saying, “just one more bite”… until suddenly it’s gone.
Shrimpers Heaven
When a place has shrimp in the name, you kind of have to go all-in—and that’s exactly what Shrimpers Heaven lets you do.
This dish gives you multiple styles of shrimp in one plate, so you can try a little bit of everything. Think fried, coconut, and more—all with different flavors and textures.
If you’re indecisive (like me), this is hands-down the best option.
What We Drank
Jenny’s Blonde Ale
I always like trying a local-ish beer when I can, and Jenny’s Blonde Ale was an easy choice. Light, smooth, and super drinkable—it paired perfectly with all the seafood.
Bloody Mary
You can’t go wrong with a Bloody Mary, especially when you’re leaning into a seafood-heavy meal.
This one had a nice balance of spice and flavor—nothing over-the-top, just a solid, well-made cocktail that hits the spot.
Staying Nearby Made It Easy
One of the best parts of this visit? We stayed at the Radisson Blu Mall of America, which made everything ridiculously convenient.
Being able to walk straight from the hotel into the mall (and then to dinner) is a game-changer—especially after a long day of shopping.
Is Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Worth It?
So, is Bubba Gump Shrimp Company actually worth stopping at while you’re visiting the Mall of America?
Short answer: yes—especially if you’re looking for a fun, casual dining experience with solid seafood options.
What really makes this place stand out isn’t just the food—it’s the overall experience. Between the Forrest Gump theme, interactive table signs, and energetic atmosphere, it feels more like an experience than just another restaurant inside the mall.
That said, the food holds its own too. The jumbo shrimp cocktail was fresh and simple, while the larger dishes like Forrest’s Seafood Feast and Shrimpers Heaven are great if you want variety and generous portions. If you’re a shrimp fan, you’ll definitely leave happy.
A few things to keep in mind:
- It can get busy, especially during peak shopping hours and weekends
- Prices are a bit higher than your typical mall food spots
- The atmosphere is lively, which may not be ideal if you’re looking for something quiet
But honestly, if you’re already at the Mall of America, it’s a convenient and entertaining place to sit down, relax, and enjoy a meal.
It’s also an especially great option if you’re staying at the Radisson Blu Mall of America, since you can easily walk over without ever leaving the building.
Bottom line:
If you love shrimp, enjoy themed restaurants, or just want a fun break from shopping, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co is definitely worth checking out.
So, is it worth stopping at Bubba Gump while you’re at the Mall of America?
Short answer: yes—especially if you love shrimp and fun, themed dining experiences.
It’s not trying to be a super high-end seafood restaurant, and that’s kind of the point. It’s casual, a little touristy, and a lot of fun—with solid food to back it up.
Quick Highlights
- Located inside Mall of America
- Great variety of shrimp dishes
- Fun Forrest Gump theme throughout
- Good drink options (including beer + cocktails)
- Perfect if you’re staying at Radisson Blu
If You’re in the Area
If you’re planning a Mall of America trip, this is an easy and fun dining stop to add to your list.
And if you’re like us and enjoy pairing good food with a little exploring, keep an eye out for more of our Minnesota and Midwest spots—we’re always on the hunt for the next great bite.
Final Thoughts
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is one of those places that’s as much about the experience as it is the food—and honestly, it nails both.
Between the nostalgic theme, generous portions, and solid seafood options, it’s a fun break from the typical mall dining options.
Would we go back? Absolutely—especially when that shrimp craving hits.
Parking Tips at Mall of America
Parking at the Mall of America is actually easier than you might expect—but a few tips can make your visit to Bubba Gump Shrimp Company even smoother.
- Free parking: Mall of America offers plenty of free parking ramps around the mall
- Closest parking: Try parking near the East or South entrances for easier access to restaurants
- Use entrance numbers: Take a photo of your parking section (trust me—it helps later 😅)
- Weekends = busy: Arrive earlier in the day or later in the evening to avoid circling for a spot
- Hotel shortcut: If you’re staying at the Radisson Blu Mall of America, you can skip parking altogether and just walk right into the mall
Overall, parking is one of the easier parts of visiting Mall of America, especially compared to other major shopping destinations.
Find Bubba Gump Shrimp Co at Mall of America
You’ll find Bubba Gump Shrimp Company conveniently located inside the Mall of America.
Google Map:
Explore More Great Food & Drinks
If you enjoyed our visit to Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, we’ve checked out plenty of other great spots worth adding to your list.
If you’re exploring more of Minnesota, don’t miss our visit to Fulton Brewing in Minneapolis, a laid-back brewery known for its craft beer and fun taproom atmosphere—perfect if you’re looking to mix in a local beer stop.
Closer to southern Minnesota, we’ve also had some great meals in Mankato. Dino’s Pizzeria is one of our go-to spots for casual comfort food, while Flask Bar & Grill is a solid choice for drinks and a relaxed night out.
And if you’re in the mood for something a little different, check out our experience at Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery, where you can enjoy local wines in a scenic setting just outside the city.
