11 Best Places to Eat in Panama City Beach: A Food Lover’s Guide
Panama City Beach, Florida, is not only famous for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters but also for its eclectic and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, mouthwatering Southern cuisine, or international flavors, Panama City Beach has it all. Here’s a guide to the best places to eat in Panama City Beach, showcasing top places to eat, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
Firefly
Schooners
Captain Anderson’s Restaurant
Dat Cajun Place Cafe
Pineapple Willy’s
Saltwater Grill
Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill
Runaway Island
The Grand Marlin of Panama City Beach
Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill
1. Firefly
Firefly - 535 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Firefly is an upscale dining destination renowned for its elegant ambiance and delectable menu. Known for its fresh seafood and creative dishes, Firefly is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Why It’s Special:
Firefly offers a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The attention to detail in both food and service sets it apart from other dining options in the area.
Don’t Miss:
The She Crab Soup is rich and creamy, a perfect starter to warm you up. The Grouper Piccata, fresh and perfectly cooked, is a standout dish that embodies the essence of fine dining. For dessert, try the signature Creme Brulee, a sweet and indulgent treat that is sure to delight your taste buds. The wine list is extensive, offering a perfect pairing for any dish you choose.
2. Schooners
Schooners - 5121 Gulf Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Schooners, known as “The Last Local Beach Club,” offers a laid-back beachside dining experience with stunning ocean views and delicious food.
Why It’s Special:
The relaxed beach vibe and live music make Schooners a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The combination of great food and a lively atmosphere ensures a memorable dining experience.
Don’t Miss:
The grouper sandwich is fresh and flavorful, showcasing the catch of the day in a delicious way. The seared tuna appetizer is a great starter, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Their key lime pie is a perfect ending to a beachside meal, tart and sweet in every bite. Don’t forget to try their signature Schooner Burger, a juicy and satisfying choice for any burger lover.
3. Captain Anderson’s Restaurant
Captain Anderson’s Restaurant - 5551 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Captain Anderson’s has been a staple in Panama City Beach for decades, offering fresh seafood and a beautiful waterfront dining experience.
Why It’s Special:
This family-owned restaurant is famous for its dock-to-table seafood and exceptional service. The ambiance and historical significance add to the charm of dining here.
Don’t Miss:
The grilled amberjack is a local favorite, with a smoky flavor that enhances the freshness of the fish. The seafood platter is perfect for sharing, offering a variety of the best catches of the day. The hush puppies, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, are a must-try side that complements any meal. For dessert, indulge in the decadent chocolate mousse, a rich and satisfying end to your dining experience.
4. Dat Cajun Place Café
Dat Cajun Place Café - 8501 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
For a taste of Louisiana in Florida, Dat Cajun Place Café delivers authentic Cajun cuisine with a lively atmosphere.
Why It’s Special:
The vibrant setting and live music make every meal feel like a celebration. The authentic Cajun flavors transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana.
Don’t Miss:
The crawfish etouffee is rich and flavorful, a true representation of Cajun cuisine. The shrimp and grits are a standout dish, creamy and perfectly seasoned, leaving you craving more. Their beignets are a delightful treat, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, dusted with powdered sugar. The jambalaya, packed with spicy sausage and tender chicken, is another must-try that will have you coming back for more.
5. Pineapple Willy’s
Pineapple Willy’s - 9875 S Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Pineapple Willy’s is a beachfront restaurant known for its fun atmosphere and delicious food, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal with a view.
Why It’s Special:
The outdoor seating with stunning ocean views and a lively bar scene make it a popular choice. The casual vibe and tasty dishes are perfect for a laid-back dining experience.
Don’t Miss:
The Jack Daniel’s BBQ ribs are a crowd favorite, tender and flavorful with a smoky glaze. Their frozen cocktails, especially the signature Pineapple Willy, are refreshing and perfect for a hot day. The fried shrimp basket is another hit, with crispy, golden shrimp served with a side of fries. Don’t leave without trying the Mahi Mahi sandwich, fresh and perfectly cooked, served with a side of their famous coleslaw.
6. Saltwater Grill
Saltwater Grill - 11040 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Saltwater Grill offers an upscale dining experience with a stunning 25,000-gallon aquarium as its centerpiece, providing a unique ambiance.
Why It’s Special:
The mesmerizing aquarium and top-notch service make dining here a memorable experience. The upscale setting is perfect for special occasions and romantic dinners.
Don’t Miss:
The prime rib is tender and flavorful, a perfect choice for meat lovers. The lobster tail is a decadent choice, cooked to perfection and served with drawn butter. For dessert, the chocolate lava cake is a must-try, with a molten center that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The seafood linguine, rich and creamy, is another standout dish that combines fresh seafood with perfectly cooked pasta.
7. Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill
Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill - 1151 Bayview Ave, Panama City, FL 32401
Located on the bay, Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill offers stunning sunset views and a menu full of fresh seafood and Southern favorites.
Why It’s Special:
The beautiful bayfront location and friendly service make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The relaxed, waterfront dining experience adds to the charm.
Don’t Miss:
The crab cakes are a standout appetizer, packed with fresh crab meat and perfectly seasoned. The blackened redfish is perfectly seasoned, showcasing the flavors of the Gulf. The bread pudding, warm and rich, is a delightful end to the meal. The shrimp and grits, creamy and savory, are a Southern classic done exceptionally well here.
8. Runaway Island
Runaway Island - 14521 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Runaway Island is a two-story beachfront restaurant that offers spectacular ocean views and a menu filled with fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes.
Why It’s Special:
The expansive outdoor deck provides panoramic views of the Gulf, making it an ideal spot for a sunset dinner. The lively atmosphere and friendly service enhance the dining experience.
Don’t Miss:
The shrimp and scallop pasta is creamy and delicious, with perfectly cooked seafood. Their fish tacos are a favorite, loaded with fresh fish and tangy slaw. The key lime pie is a refreshing dessert option, tart and sweet in every bite. The coconut shrimp, crispy and golden, served with a sweet chili sauce, is a delightful appetizer.
9. The Grand Marlin of Panama City Beach
The Grand Marlin of Panama City Beach - 5323 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
The Grand Marlin offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and an extensive wine list, set against the backdrop of the marina.
Why It’s Special:
The elegant yet relaxed atmosphere and the focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients make it a top dining choice. The waterfront views add to the overall dining experience.
Don’t Miss:
The oysters Rockefeller are a perfect starter, creamy and rich with a hint of spinach and bacon. The seafood linguine is rich and satisfying, packed with fresh shrimp, scallops, and crab. Their chocolate peanut butter pie is a decadent dessert that combines creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate. The seared tuna, fresh and flavorful, is another must-try, served with a side of wasabi mashed potatoes.
10. Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill
Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill - 16201 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill offers a casual beachfront dining experience with an emphasis on fresh seafood and great drinks.
Why It’s Special:
The laid-back atmosphere and stunning pier views make it a favorite for both locals and tourists. The combination of delicious food and a scenic location ensures a pleasant dining experience.
Don’t Miss:
The fish tacos are packed with flavor, featuring fresh fish and tangy slaw. The fried shrimp basket is crispy and delicious, a perfect choice for seafood lovers. Their margaritas are a perfect complement to any meal, refreshing and flavorful. The crab dip, creamy and savory, served with crispy bread, is a great starter to share.
Panama City Beach is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options that cater to every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a casual beachside bite, these top restaurants are sure to provide an unforgettable culinary experience.