Beach Bites You Can’t Miss: Appetizers That Bring the Tropics to the Table

At Palm and Paddle Grille, we’re all about bringing you closer to the beach—one bite at a time. Whether you're dropping in for a laid-back happy hour or gathering with friends for drinks and small plates, our Beach Bites menu is the perfect kickoff to your island-inspired dining experience.

From crispy, coconut-covered creations to spicy, flavor-packed dips, our appetizers are crafted to give you that “I’m-on-vacation” feeling, even if you’re right here in Springfield, MO. Let’s dig in.

Sunshine Shrimp

If sunshine could be served on a plate, this would be it. Our Sunshine Shrimp is sautéed in garlic butter and fresh lemon juice, then served with warm garlic bread for dipping. It's zesty, bright, and refreshingly simple—just like a day by the water.

Drink Pairing: Coconut Martini
This martini is all tropical with gin, coconut purée, a hint of lemon, and spiced with housemade Caribbean falernum syrup. It complements the citrusy notes of the shrimp beautifully.

Turtle Bay Nachos

You know it’s a party when the Turtle Bay Nachos hit the table. We start with housemade crispy tortilla chips and pile them high with creamy queso blanco, black beans, flame-roasted corn, pico de gallo, grilled jalapeños, and Cotija cheese.

Want to take it to the next level? Add jerk chicken, shrimp, or carne asada to make it a meal in itself. Whether you’re sharing with friends or claiming it for yourself (we won’t judge), this dish is a crowd-pleaser through and through.

Drink Pairing: P&P Punch
Spiced rum mixes with papaya, pineapple, and lime juices for a perfect balance of island flavors. It stands up well to the bold flavors of the nachos.

Coconut Shrimp

One bite of our Coconut Shrimp, and you’re on an island beach with a drink in hand. These golden, crispy shrimp are coated in coconut breading and fried to perfection. We serve them with a tangy sweet chili orange lime sauce that ties it all together.

Drink Pairing: Dragon Fruit Bliss
Tantalizing sweet red dragon fruit purée gives this cocktail its vibrant Caribbean pink hue. Combined with vodka, banana liqueur, and pineapple and orange juices, it's mildly sweet, just like an island sunset.

Island Trio

Can’t decide what to order? Don’t. The Island Trio is the best of three worlds: Coconut Chicken Tenders, Island Honey BBQ Ribs, and creamy Queso Blanco with chips.

This platter was made for sampling, sharing, and pairing with a cold drink while the conversation flows. It’s a little bit of everything we do best, in one shareable plate.

Drink Pairing: Dominican Manhattan
Rum, orange curacao, and our housemade Caribbean falernum syrup take this Manhattan on an island vacation. It pairs well with the variety of flavors in the trio.

Chips + Dips

There’s something about chips and dips that just feels like summer. Our version includes housemade tortilla chips and a trio of dips: creamy queso blanco, Cuban black bean dip, and mango salsa.

Together, they hit every note—cheesy, savory, sweet, and just the right touch of heat.

Drink Pairing: Club Mango
A tropical spin on the classic Cuban-created daiquiri with housemade mango purée. Its sweetness balances the savory dips.

Snorkels

Yes, they’re as fun as they sound. Snorkels are crisp, jumbo tater tots stuffed with bacon and cheese, topped with our queso blanco and served with green sriracha ranch.

They're cheesy, they’re indulgent, and they’ve got just enough heat to keep things interesting. Warning: one plate may not be enough.

Drink Pairing: Caribbean Mule
A twist on the traditional mule with Caribbean falernum syrup plus orange and pineapple juices. The only kick here is to your tastebuds.

Why Beach Bites Are the Heart of Happy Hour

Appetizers aren’t just starters—they’re the moments that bring people together. Whether you’re grabbing drinks with friends after work, heading out for date night, or soaking in some patio time, our Beach Bites are meant to be enjoyed together.

These dishes were designed to be shareable, snackable, and full of bold tropical flavors that reflect the easygoing spirit of Palm and Paddle Grille.

Taste the Tropics Tonight

Whether you’re a fan of crispy coconut shrimp or can’t resist queso-covered tots, our Beach Bites menu is full of craveable flavor and coastal character. It’s a bite-sized vacation right here in Springfield.

Ready to plan your happy hour or next casual hangout?
👉 Visit our full menu and start daydreaming about your next tropical bite.