Restaurants Panama City Beach: Indulge in Flavorful Feasts by the Shore
Welcome to Panama City Beach, where the sun-kissed shoreline meets culinary delight! Ready to discover the best Panama City beach restaurants?
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a lover of international cuisine, or eager to indulge in some southern comfort food, Panama City Beach has something to satisfy your culinary cravings. Dive into a world of flavors and enjoy the hospitality as you explore the diverse dining scene that makes this location a food lover’s paradise.
Grab your sunhat and get ready to satisfy your appetite! From casual beachfront restaurants to upscale venues like the Grand Marlin, Panama City Beach offers a restaurant scene that’s as diverse as its visitors. Here, you can feast on fresh catches of the day while watching the waves roll in or enjoy a family-friendly meal after a day of fun in the sun.
Curious? Keep reading for our guide on beach restaurants Panama City!
Top-Rated Restaurants in Panama City Beach FL
If you’re headed to Panama City Beach, prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure. This vibrant coastal town is home to some of the finest dining experiences you’ll find. Let’s dive into three of the most beloved restaurants here.
Firefly: Firefly Restaurant Panama City Beach at 535 Richard Jackson Boulevard is a dining gem renowned for its magical ambiance. Step into their beautifully lit dining room adorned with twinkling lights that create an intimate and enchanting atmosphere. The menu is a masterpiece of local and global flavors, featuring dishes like Gulf Coast crab cakes and succulent filet mignon. Pair your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list, and you’ll see why Firefly consistently earns rave reviews.
Saltwater Grill: Saltwater Grill, located at 11040 Hutchison Boulevard, combines fresh seafood with a visually stunning dining experience. As you walk in, you’ll be greeted by a massive 25,000-gallon aquarium teeming with vibrant marine life, setting the tone for a meal to remember. The menu showcases dishes like perfectly seared scallops and buttery lobster tail, paired with sides like truffle mashed potatoes. With its sophisticated yet relaxed vibe, Saltwater Grill is a top choice for date nights and celebrations alike.
Bayou on the Beach: Bayou on the Beach can be found at 11115 Hutchison Boulevard, bringing the lively spirit of Cajun cuisine to Panama City Beach. This local favorite serves up bold flavors with dishes like crawfish étouffée and blackened shrimp po’boys. The casual, beachy ambiance is perfect for kicking back with a cold beer while enjoying live music that captures the energy of the Gulf Coast. It’s the ultimate spot to soak in local vibes and savor delicious, no-frills local seafood.
Family Fun and Feasts: Dining Spots Perfect for All Ages
When you’re in Panama City Beach, you’ll find dining experiences that cater to every member of the family. From exciting play areas to menus that offer something for young and old alike, these spots ensure delightful moments beyond the meal.
Pineapple Willy’s: Pineapple Willy’s is your go-to spot for a casual dining area with unbeatable beachfront vibes. Located at 9875 South Thomas Drive, this lively restaurant is famous for its fall-off-the-bone ribs and tropical cocktails. Kick back on their breezy deck with a frozen drink in hand while the kids enjoy the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss their signature drink, the Pineapple Willy, served in a souvenir cup that’s perfect for taking a piece of the beach home with you.
Runaway Island: Runaway Island, found at 14521 Front Beach Road, offers dining with a view that’s hard to beat. With two levels of indoor seating and an expansive deck overlooking the Gulf, this spot lets you soak up the ocean breeze while enjoying fresh seafood and hearty burgers. The menu highlights local favorites like Gulf shrimp and grouper tacos, but the hand-cut steaks are just as enticing. Add in lively entertainment and stunning sunsets, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable evening.
Sharky s Beachfront Restaurant: Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant, located at 15201 Front Beach Road, is where great food meets family fun. This beachside gem offers a diverse menu featuring everything from fresh grouper sandwiches to coconut shrimp, ensuring everyone finds something to love. Kids will have a blast at the dedicated play area, while adults can relax with a tropical drink as live music fills the air. The panoramic beach views and laid-back atmosphere make Sharky’s the ultimate spot for a memorable family outing.
The Seafood Scene: Where to Find the Freshest Catch
When you’re in Panama City Beach, indulging in the city’s celebrated seafood is a must. Known for its proximity to the Gulf, you’ll find an abundance of restaurants offering the freshest local catches. Dive into this delightful culinary scene at these top picks:
Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant: Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant at 5551 North Lagoon Drive offers world-class cuisine with a vibrant waterfront vibe. Enjoy expertly seasoned steaks and seafood like their world famous grilled snapper, all while taking in the sight of fishing boats and a stunning marina sunset. Pair your meal with a fine wine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill: Hook’d Pier Bar & Grill, located at 16201 Front Beach Road, is the perfect casual spot for beachgoers craving bold flavors and ocean views. Set right by the pier, this lively eatery offers a menu bursting with variety, from juicy burgers and spicy Cajun po’boys to rich gumbo and the freshest seafood platters. The laid-back vibe is amplified by outdoor seating where you can feel the sea breeze and soak in the stunning Gulf views.
Dusty’s Oyster Bar: Dusty’s restaurant Panama City Beach, nestled at 16450 Front Beach Road, is a no-frills gem that seafood lovers can’t afford to miss. Known for its lively, down-to-earth atmosphere, Dusty’s serves up some of the freshest oysters in town—whether you like them raw, baked, or topped with cheese and bacon. The menu also features delicious fried seafood baskets and crowd-pleasers like shrimp and crab claws.
Beachfront Bliss: Restaurants with Stunning Ocean Views
Imagine dining with your toes in the sand and the waves providing the most soothing of soundtracks. Panama City Beach offers some of the most incredible dining experiences with a view that perfectly complements your meal. Let’s take a closer look at three standout restaurants that offer breathtaking ocean views.
Barefoot on the Beach: Barefoot on the Beach at 11073 Front Beach Road is the ultimate spot for laid-back coastal dining. Relax at the open-air bar, dip in the beachfront pool, and soak up stunning Gulf views. With a menu featuring juicy burgers, fresh shrimp baskets, and tropical cocktails, every visit feels like a mini vacation.
Schooners Last Local Beach Club: Schooners Last Local Beach Club at 5121 Gulf Drive is a vibrant spot known as “The Last Local Beach Club.” Enjoy fresh Gulf seafood like grouper sandwiches and fried shrimp while soaking up the ocean breeze. With live music, cannon-fired sunset celebrations, and dancing under the stars, it’s a true Panama City Beach party experience.
Runaway Island Beach Bar & Grill: Runaway Island Beach Bar & Grill at 14521 Front Beach Road offers stunning ocean views and incredible meals. Dine indoors or on the deck by the shoreline, with the soothing sound of the surf as your backdrop. The menu delights seafood lovers with dishes like New Orleans BBQ shrimp and seared scallops. Pair it with a handcrafted cocktail and live music for a perfect night by the water.
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Panama City Beach Restaurants FAQs
When can you not drink on the beach in Panama City Beach?
In Panama City Beach, the consumption and possession of alcohol on the sandy beach are prohibited during the entire month of March. Additionally, alcohol sales are not permitted between 2 a.m. and 7 a.m. throughout the year.
Do you tip at restaurants in Panama City?
Tipping is customary at restaurants in Panama City, and it’s appreciated as part of good service. Plan to tip around 10-15% in Panamanian restaurants to show your gratitude for the service provided.
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