By John Daly
Tony’s done it again. He’s lavishing together great golf, food, drink, and history in one episode.
And you can see it on the February 2025 edition of the Traveling Golfer.
Tony hosts this episode from Alabama at the southern end of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail that extends its allure to the new golf foodie hotspot of Mobile, Alabama. It is now a beacon for both golf enthusiasts and those seeking a picturesque retreat.
Sure, Mobile has plenty of history. In fact, Mobile has a longer history of Mardi Gras than even New Orleans. You may want to make that Mardi Gras trek here in early March. Tony takes you to downtown Mobile with more than 50 restaurants and bars within an 8-block area.
As you will see this is a great trip for a bunch of guy or gal golfers wanting a getaway loaded with experiences. But, as Tony points, this is a great couples hideaway weekend.
Tony hits some of the iconic nearby Trail courses.
Golf Heaven Down South
A cornerstone of this trail is the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, offering 36 majestic holes. Though a private course, hotel guests are granted the privilege of teeing off amidst the stunning backdrop of the Gulf Coast. Tony shows off the manicured fairways framed by tangled oak trees, a sight that alone justifies a visit.
Tony also gets served up an incredible tuna dish, cooked to perfection by Zach Compton, the Director of Culinary Operations at Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa. Tony’s response is mesmerizing – as is the accommodations. One of the big reasons this could be a couples getaway must.
Tony also tees it up at Magnolia Grove. This is 54 challenging holes that will test the mettle of every golfer. Tony shows us how you need a long game on a number of holes, but you better have some accurate tee shots and approach shots.
Both these courses, as you will see, make Mobile an essential stop for those plunging into the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.
Beyond the greens, Mobile boasts vibrant dining and entertainment options.
Mobile’s Culinary Scene Scores
Tony starts your culinary journey at Dauphin’s, perched atop the 34th floor of the Trustmark Building. It offers not just incredible food but sweeping views of the city and waters beyond.
A few blocks away, Tony has a burger and a Yuengling at one of the world’s best Irish pubs – the globally acclaimed Callaghan’s Irish Social Club. It embodies the spirit of Mobile’s renowned St. Patrick’s Day festivities—the best in the South. You may want to hit some golf in Mid-March here too.
Tony drinks in some speakeasy history at Las Floriditas. Modeled after Cuban speakeasies once frequented by Ernest Hemingway, this local haunt captures a nostalgic charm that draws both residents and visitors.
Tony escorts up to the top of The Admiral Hotel, a new and bustling fixture nearby, with its must-visit rooftop Le Moyne Chophouse. Here, a bourbon bar offering exquisite oysters becomes an experience to cherish, blending sophisticated flavors with panoramic sights. Tony enjoys a healthy bourbon with General Manager Terell Ham. We think Tony made it out of there OK.
Within this compact eight-block area, Mobile hosts an impressive 55 restaurants, showcasing diverse culinary artistry that will satiate any palate. It’s a gastronomic journey through Southern hospitality, international flair, and impeccable service—all just minutes from world-class golf courses.
And Mobile’s golf future is not going away. Like many other spots around the country, golf is growing in popularity – thanks to Covid and also the boom of indoor golf and technology locations.
In addition, the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail has made Mobile and other parts of Alabama – a golf resort destination.
Tony gets the lo-down from David Clark, CEO of Visit Mobile, and a lifetime PGA member, who gives us the background of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and how it has boosted tourism but also funnels substantial retirement income back into the local economy, transforming Alabama into a golfing haven.
Read the entire article on TravelingGolfer.tv.
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