The 9 Best Restaurants in Fort Walton
Fort Walton, Florida, is a coastal treasure that offers more than just beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is also home to a vibrant culinary scene that attracts food lovers from near and far. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the best Fort Walton restaurants is an essential part of experiencing this charming town. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, here are the top 9 restaurants that should be on your must-visit list.
Best Spots in Fort Walton, Florida
Stewby’s Seafood Shanty - 427 Racetrack Rd NW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
The Shack - Original Waterfront Crab Shack - 104 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Bay Cafe - 233 Alconese Ave SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Old Bay Steamer - 102 Santa Rosa Blvd, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Ali’s Bistro - 105 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Rockin’ Tacos - 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Sealand Restaurant - 47 Eglin Pkwy NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
The Boardroom Pub & Grub - 1259 Eglin Pkwy, Shalimar, FL 32579
Burrito Del Sol - 201 Ferry Rd SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
A Culinary Journey in Fort Walton
Fort Walton is not just a destination for beachgoers and sun-seekers—it's also a haven for food enthusiasts. The best Fort Walton restaurants offer a wide range of culinary experiences, from casual seafood shacks to upscale dining establishments. Stewby’s Seafood Shanty is a local favorite, known for its fresh, no-frills seafood served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The Shack - Original Waterfront Crab Shack offers a quintessential Florida dining experience, with a menu focused on fresh crab and other seafood delights, all enjoyed with stunning waterfront views. Bay Cafe is perfect for those seeking a French-inspired menu in a cozy, romantic setting, making it a great spot for a special night out. Old Bay Steamer provides a casual, yet refined dining experience centered around steamed seafood, with a particular focus on the flavors of the Gulf Coast. Ali’s Bistro brings a taste of Italy to Fort Walton, offering a menu filled with classic Italian dishes made with love and care. Rockin’ Tacos is the go-to spot for those craving Mexican flavors with a twist, offering a lively atmosphere and a menu that doesn’t disappoint. Sealand Restaurant is a staple in Fort Walton, known for its elegant setting and a menu that caters to both seafood lovers and steak enthusiasts. The Boardroom Pub & Grub is perfect for those looking to enjoy craft beers and pub fare in a laid-back, friendly environment. Finally, Burrito Del Sol offers a fresh take on Mexican cuisine, with a focus on burritos, tacos, and bowls that are bursting with flavor. Each of these Fort Walton restaurants brings something unique to the table, making the town a true culinary destination.
Stewby’s Seafood Shanty - Visit Stewby’s
Summary: Stewby’s Seafood Shanty is a beloved local spot that offers fresh, no-frills seafood in a casual and welcoming atmosphere.
Why It’s Special: Stewby’s Seafood Shanty is all about simplicity and flavor. The restaurant is known for serving up some of the freshest seafood in Fort Walton, with a menu that features everything from fried shrimp to grilled fish, all cooked to perfection. The atmosphere at Stewby’s is relaxed and unpretentious, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal with family or friends. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish, with fresh, locally sourced seafood that’s prepared with care. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Stewby’s Seafood Shanty offers a dining experience that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Don’t Miss: The fried shrimp is a standout dish, offering plump, juicy shrimp with a crispy, golden coating. The grilled mahi-mahi is another must-try, with tender, flavorful fish that’s perfectly seasoned and cooked. Be sure to try their hush puppies, which are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect side to any seafood dish.
The Shack - Original Waterfront Crab Shack - Visit The Shack
Summary: The Shack is a quintessential Florida seafood restaurant, offering fresh crab and other seafood delights with stunning waterfront views.
Why It’s Special: The Shack is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its fresh seafood and unbeatable views of the water. The restaurant’s menu is centered around crab and other seafood dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere at The Shack is laid-back and welcoming, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The outdoor seating area offers stunning views of the water, making every dining experience feel like a special occasion. The Shack is also known for its friendly and attentive service, ensuring that every guest has a memorable experience.
Don’t Miss: The snow crab legs are a must-try, offering sweet, succulent meat that’s perfectly cooked and served with drawn butter. The crab cakes are another standout, with a crispy exterior and a rich, flavorful filling. Be sure to try one of their signature cocktails, like the Key Lime Martini, for a refreshing complement to your meal.
Bay Cafe - Visit Bay Cafe
Summary: Bay Cafe offers a French-inspired menu in a cozy, romantic setting, making it the perfect spot for a special night out.
Why It’s Special: Bay Cafe is one of the most charming Fort Walton restaurants, known for its intimate atmosphere and elegant menu. The restaurant is located on the water, offering stunning views that add to the romantic ambiance. The menu at Bay Cafe is French-inspired, featuring a variety of classic dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s attention to detail is evident in every dish, from the perfectly cooked entrees to the beautifully presented desserts. The wine list at Bay Cafe is extensive, featuring a selection of French and international wines that perfectly complement the menu. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Bay Cafe offers a dining experience that’s both luxurious and memorable.
Don’t Miss: The filet mignon is a must-try, offering a tender, juicy cut of meat that’s cooked to perfection and served with a rich, flavorful sauce. The seafood crepes are another standout, with delicate, savory crepes filled with fresh seafood and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Be sure to save room for dessert, with the chocolate mousse being a rich, decadent treat that’s the perfect way to end your meal.
Old Bay Steamer - Visit Old Bay Steamer
Summary: Old Bay Steamer is a casual, yet refined dining spot that specializes in steamed seafood, offering a menu that highlights the flavors of the Gulf Coast.
Why It’s Special: Old Bay Steamer is a must-visit for seafood lovers in Fort Walton, offering a menu that focuses on steamed seafood prepared with care and attention to detail. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and inviting, with a decor that reflects its coastal location. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, from steamed shrimp to king crab legs, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Old Bay Steamer is known for its generous portions and friendly service, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish, ensuring that every dining experience is a satisfying one.
Don’t Miss: The steamed shrimp is a standout, offering tender, juicy shrimp that’s perfectly seasoned and served with a side of drawn butter. The king crab legs are another must-try, with sweet, succulent meat that’s cooked to perfection and served with all the fixings. Be sure to try one of their seafood platters, which are perfect for sharing and offer a taste of everything Old Bay Steamer has to offer.
Ali’s Bistro - Visit Ali’s Bistro
Summary: Ali’s Bistro brings the flavors of Italy to Fort Walton, offering a menu filled with classic Italian dishes made with love and care.
Why It’s Special: Ali’s Bistro is a hidden gem among Fort Walton restaurants, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is family-owned and operated, and the passion for food and hospitality is evident in every aspect of the dining experience. The menu at Ali’s Bistro features a variety of classic Italian dishes, from homemade pastas to wood-fired pizzas, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The atmosphere at Ali’s is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends. The staff at Ali’s are known for their friendly service and attention to detail, ensuring that every dining experience is a memorable one.
Don’t Miss: The lasagna is a standout, featuring layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and tender pasta, all topped with a generous amount of melted cheese. The veal piccata is another must-try, with tender veal cutlets served in a tangy lemon and caper sauce. For dessert, the tiramisu is a classic that’s done right, with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone.
Rockin’ Tacos - Visit Rockin’ Tacos
Summary: Rockin’ Tacos is the go-to spot for Mexican flavors with a twist, offering a lively atmosphere and a menu that doesn’t disappoint.
Why It’s Special: Rockin’ Tacos is one of the most vibrant Fort Walton restaurants, known for its fun atmosphere and bold flavors. The restaurant is located right on the beach, offering stunning views and a lively vibe that makes every meal feel like a fiesta. The menu at Rockin’ Tacos features a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes, from tacos and burritos to fajitas and enchiladas, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere at Rockin’ Tacos is casual and fun, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a casual dinner with family. The restaurant also offers a great selection of margaritas and other cocktails, which perfectly complement the bold flavors of the menu.
Don’t Miss: The fish tacos are a must-try, featuring fresh, tender fish topped with a variety of flavorful toppings and served on warm corn tortillas. The carne asada burrito is another standout, with tender, marinated steak, rice, beans, and a variety of toppings wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. For a refreshing drink, try one of their margaritas, which are made with fresh lime juice and served on the rocks or frozen.
Sealand Restaurant - Visit Sealand
Summary: Sealand Restaurant is a staple in Fort Walton, offering an elegant setting and a menu that caters to both seafood lovers and steak enthusiasts.
Why It’s Special: Sealand Restaurant is one of the most established Fort Walton restaurants, known for its upscale atmosphere and diverse menu. The restaurant’s ambiance is elegant and sophisticated, with a decor that reflects its commitment to quality and tradition. The menu at Sealand features a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to prime steaks, all made with high-quality ingredients and prepared with care. The restaurant is particularly known for its generous portions and attentive service, making it a great spot for a special night out or a business dinner. The wine list at Sealand is extensive, featuring a selection of wines from around the world that perfectly complement the menu.
Don’t Miss: The filet mignon is a must-try, offering a tender, juicy cut of meat that’s cooked to perfection and served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. The grilled snapper is another standout, with fresh, flaky fish that’s perfectly seasoned and cooked. Be sure to try one of their seafood platters, which are perfect for sharing and offer a taste of everything Sealand has to offer.
The Boardroom Pub & Grub - Visit The Boardroom
Summary: The Boardroom Pub & Grub is perfect for those looking to enjoy craft beers and pub fare in a laid-back, friendly environment.
Why It’s Special: The Boardroom Pub & Grub is a favorite among locals, known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious pub fare. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of comfort food favorites, from burgers and wings to fish and chips, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere at The Boardroom is casual and inviting, with a decor that reflects its commitment to quality and tradition. The restaurant is also known for its extensive selection of craft beers, which perfectly complement the hearty, flavorful dishes on the menu. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal with friends, The Boardroom Pub & Grub offers a dining experience that’s both satisfying and enjoyable.
Don’t Miss: The Boardroom Burger is a must-try, featuring a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and all the fixings. The fish and chips are another standout, with crispy, golden-brown fish served with a side of thick-cut fries. For drinks, be sure to try one of their local craft beers, which are always fresh and flavorful.
Burrito Del Sol - Visit Burrito Del Sol
Summary: Burrito Del Sol offers a fresh take on Mexican cuisine, with a focus on burritos, tacos, and bowls that are bursting with flavor.
Why It’s Special: Burrito Del Sol is one of the most popular Fort Walton restaurants, known for its fresh, flavorful take on Mexican cuisine. The restaurant’s menu is centered around customizable burritos, tacos, and bowls, with a variety of proteins, toppings, and sauces to choose from. The atmosphere at Burrito Del Sol is casual and fun, with a decor that reflects its beachy location. The restaurant is also known for its friendly service and generous portions, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic burrito or something a bit more adventurous, Burrito Del Sol offers a dining experience that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Don’t Miss: The Baja fish tacos are a standout, featuring crispy, flavorful fish topped with fresh slaw and a tangy sauce. The carnitas burrito is another must-try, with tender, slow-cooked pork, rice, beans, and a variety of toppings wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. For drinks, be sure to try one of their house-made aguas frescas, which are refreshing and delicious.
Conclusion
Fort Walton is a culinary treasure trove, offering a wide range of dining experiences that cater to every palate. From casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, the best Fort Walton restaurants showcase the rich flavors and warm hospitality that make this town a special place to visit. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, authentic Italian cuisine, or a hearty burger, these 9 unique restaurants offer something for everyone. So next time you find yourself in Fort Walton, be sure to explore these top spots and discover the best of what this charming town has to offer.
