Home

Regular Features


Restaurant Guide
Dining Reviews
Musician Profiles
Business Profiles
Internet Gems

Book Reviews
Places to Go, Things to Do
Movie Reviews

Services

Where to find The Beachcomber
Send a letter to the editor

Advertise with us
Contact Us


 

These restaurants reviewed by our staff
of professional eaters are rated; all others
give an overview of the type of food being
served, the price range, address and phone.
The rating reflects the level of excellence
on one day only. Happy eating!

Key:
Order takeout or cook at home
Worth checking out
Honorable
Terrific
Excellent

Restaurants by Category

Cabana Cafe
Large, informal and kid-friendly, Cabana Cafe offers a varied menu of snacks, pizzas, grilled and cold sandwiches, burgers, and more sophisticated grownup fare. Cuban sandwich, po’boys, steaks, fish tacos, and pasta specialties. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily. Full bar. $5-28. 112 Seascape Blvd., Miramar Beach, (850) 424-3574. Review

Callahan’s Restaurant and Deli 2/3
A local lunch and dinner favorite for years, it offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, burgers, steaks and chops. Favorties are New York strip steak, prime rib and you-name-it deli sandwich classics. Daily specials, wine and beer, $4-19. 791 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 837-6328.

Hog’s Breath Cafe
A variety of food options including hamburgers, pasta, appetizers, certified Angus beef, and local Gulf seafood entr»es at great prices. Daily specials. Live music 7 days a week.
$4-19, 541 Hwy 98E, Destin, 837-5991.

Magnolia Grill
The Magnolia Grill Historic 1920s Florida charm, often called “a museum that serves food.” Seafood, steaks, Italian favorites, wine and beer. Delighted to take your reservation. $5-24, 157 Brooks Street SE, Fort Walton Beach, (850) 302-0266. www.magnoliagrill.com

Mary’s Kitchen
A country outpost since 1950, Mary’s offers pork barbecue, fried catfish and a well-chosen list of hearty homestyle items. Meatloaf, burgers, sandwiches, and plenty of sides. Pies made in-house daily. Lunch and dinner, Mon - Sat. $4 - 11. 186-G Eglin Pkwy. NE, Fort Walton Beach, 863-1141. Review

Rum Runners
This is the Baytowne Wharf place with the dueling pianos. It’s also a comfortable spot for lunch and dinner, with a variety of appetizers, wraps, sandwiches and main dishes featuring beef, chicken, and plenty of Gulf seafood. Full bar, open for lunch and dinner. $7-25. 130 Fisherman’s Cove, Sandestin, 351-1817.
Review


(Top)

Hog’s Breath Boss Hog Bar-B-Q
Smoked chickens and turkeys, sandwiches and plates, food service catering, homemade pie, and picnics to go. Pulled pork and chicken sandwiches with our own special sauce. Take-out only. Located right next to Hog’s Breath. 837-5991.

JamBone
Organically raised barbecue with an array of seasonings and sauces. Brisket, wings, pork, ribs, chicken, burgers, and sides. There’s a seafood raw bar, more than 100 beers, and live music. Friendly service in a casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $2 - 23. 3906 U.S. 98 West, Santa Rosa Beach, 267-1497. Review


(Top)

Silver Sands
Serving breakfast 7 mornings a week from 5:30-10:30 a.m. Big country breakfasts fit for the sea-going fisherman in the true tradition of Destin. $3-12 538 Hwy 98, Harbor Docks restaurant, Destin, 837-2506

Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse Cafe
Nestled amongst the trees, surrounded by herb and flower gardens andÜserving vegetarian breakfasts from 7:30-11:30 a.m. with comfortable rooms in the Old Florida laid back atmosphere. 2-10. Rooms $115-260. 85 DeFuniak Street, Grayton Bch, 231-2733. www.hibiscusflorida.


(Top)
New Orleans Creole Cookery
The pick of some of New Orleans’s most famous restaurant dishes, served in a pleasant Garden District atmosphere. BBQ shrimp, crawfish bisque, roast duck, shrimp Creole, gumbo, and seafood sandwiches. Wine and beer, $4-32. Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, 351-1885.
Review


(Top)

Barley’s
Buffalo wings a specialty, plus burritos, Michigan dogs, sandwiches, and appetizers. Happy hour ‘til 9 pm daily. $2-7, 138 Hwy. 98SE, FWB, 244-5515

Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe 3/4
Sandwiches of many kinds and colors are the star at this busy cafe. An extensive menu offers hot and cold meat and vegetable wraps, panini, salads, and soups, washed down with fruit smoothies. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served. $4-8. 10406 Emerald Coast Parkway, (Silver Sands Factory Stores) Sandestin, 650-2920. Review

Roberto’s Pizzeria
Authentic Italian pizzeria serving homemade pies whole or by the slice, specialty seafood pizzas, muffulettas, lasagna, and great Italian salads plus beer and wine. Indoor/outdoor seating including our peaceful lakeside dining. All day and evening deliveries resort wide seven days a week. From small parties to large groups. Live music available and specialty menus to make your party a memorable experience. Contact Chris Ruyan, Event Coordinator, at (850) 218-2628 or call the restaurant at (850) 351-1998.

Whale’s Tail Beach Bar & Grill
If you want to feel like you’re at a real beach bar, this is the place; good food and drinks, plus superb bloody mary’s. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. $4-15, 1373 Scenic Gulf Dr. Destin, 650-4377


(Top)
Bad Ass Coffee Company
A gourmet coffee company specializing in Kona coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and lattes. The deli features Boar’s Head products and homemade muffins, breakfast sandwiches and desserts. The store carries a unique line of merchandise and provides free wireless Internet access. Open daily at 7 a.m. $1-6.50, 1708 Scenic Gulf Drive (Old Highway 98) 269-3997

Camille’s at Crystal Beach
A coffee and market shop, overlooking the gulf. Camille’s offers a wide variety of coffee, breakfast, muffins, sandwiches, salads, fresh fruit smoothies and a package store.Open daily. 2931 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin Hwy 98, 337-8860.

Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse
Nestled among the trees, surrounded by herb and flower gardens and serving vegetarian breakfasts from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. with comfortable rooms in the Old Florida laid back atmosphere. CafÈ $2-$9. Rooms $120-$130. 85 DeFuniak Street, Grayton Beach, 231-2733. www.hibiscusflorida.com

Miss Lucille’s Gossip Parlor
Get the scoop and a whole lot more! Enjoy coffee, espresso, breakfast, lunch, fabulous desserts, and free internet (WiFi) service. Open every day at 7:30 a.m. Located at the corner of 393 & 30A. Santa Rosa Beach. 267-BLAB

Slick Mick’s
This is a family owned deli, grill, and sports bar featuring authentic Philly cheese steaks, brick oven pizza, deli and specialty sandwiches and salads in a laid back family atmosphere. A great draft beer selection too. $8-12, 19 N. Eglin Pkwy, FWB, 864 5577.


(Top)

Bistro Bijoux
The jewel still sparkles at Baytowne, serving a seasonal menu including quail, venison, duck, steak, chicken, veal and seafood with spectacular sauces and a variety of sides. Terrific bread, and desserts worth planning for in advance. Nightly specials, full bar. $8-38. 9100 Baytowne Blvd., Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, (850) 622-0760. Review

Bogey's
Fine dining in the beautifully maintained old Hotel DeFuniak. Fish, shellfish, chicken, veal and beef prepared in both traditional and imaginative new ways. Soft-shelled crab, prime rib, chicken piccata, scampi, even fish and chips, in a soothing and elegant dining room. Lots of dessert choices, full bar. $5-30. 400 U.S. 90 East, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 951-2233. Review

Breeze Bar and Grill
Off to a flying start, Breeze Bar & Grill offers an array of sandwiches, catch-of-the-day specials, steaks, shellfish, pasta, wings and burgers. Noteworthy items include "oyster BLT," beer-can chicken, pork porterhouse, and a flatbread of the day. Friendly service, daily specials, full bar, live music. $4-29. 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin, (850) 424-6971. Review

Bud & Alley’s
This Seaside perennial just keeps getting better. Lunch and dinner daily, with a varying menu offering grilled, roasted, and sautÈed fish and shellfish, quail, chicken, pork, and plenty of interesting accompaniments. Full bar, $4-34. 2236 CR30A East, Seaside, 231-5900. Review

Cabana Cafe
Large, informal and kid-friendly, Cabana Cafe offers a varied menu of snacks, pizzas, grilled and cold sandwiches, burgers, and more sophisticated grownup fare. Cuban sandwich, po’boys, steaks, fish tacos, and pasta specialties. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily. Full bar. $5-28. 112 Seascape Blvd., Miramar Beach, (850) 424-3574. Review

Callahan's Restaurant and Deli
A local lunch and dinner favorite for years, Callahan’s offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, steaks and chops. Favorites include New York strip steak, prime rib and you-name-it deli sandwich classics. Daily specials, wine, beer and cocktails. $4-19. 791 Harbor Blvd., Destin, (850) 837-6328.

Camellia Grill Come early, stay late at this recently-opened dining spot on the Destin Harbor. Friendly servers talk you through a menu offering formidable omelettes, waffles, and hearty sandwiches, grilled before your eyes and served over the counter in a bright diner atmosphere. Burgers, roast beef sandwiches, BLTs, chili, ice cream desserts and old-fashioned pies. $1-9. 2 Harbor Blvd., Destin, (850) 650-2907. Review

Cafe Thirty-A 1/3
Follow the crowd to this “beach chic” fine-dining restaurant featuring an ever-changing menu of grilled & fire-roasted fresh local seafood, organic meats & poultry, wood-oven pizzas & hedonistic desserts. Award-winning wine list & famous martinis. $8-38. Open 7 days. 3899 E. Scenic Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach. 231-2166. Review

Courtyard Wine & Cheese
A wine bar featuring low production wines by the glass, bottle or for retail. The tasting room opens to a courtyard and an artisan cheese shop featuring cheeses, cured meats, oils, vinegars, cheese plates, and fondue. Tastings and live music regularly, call for details. WiFi compatible. (850) 231-1219.

Fire
A warm place to eat in Grayton Beach, offering a seasonally varied menu of fish, shellfish, meat and poultry served with imaginative sides in a cozy, homelike setting. Pheasant, pork roulades, veal, grouper, and short ribs are among the choices. Lunch and dinner, wine and beer. $6-35, 55 Clayton Lane, Grayton Beach, 231-9020. Review

Great Southern Cafe
Coastal, Louisiana bayou and country cooking in the heart of Seaside, served in style with elegant touches and in large portions. Robust appetizers, main courses and sandwiches, with favorites like cheese grits, grillades, po-boys, oysters Rockefeller, steaks, chicken, burgers and pasta. They even have black-eyed peas and fried green tomatoes. Daily specials, full bar. $5-28. 83 Central Square, Seaside, (850) 231-7327. Review

La Botana
Stop by for a bite and sip on Scenic 30-A. La Botana offers wine, beer and a selection of tapas-influenced “small plates,” including salsa, ceviche, cheese plates, soups, enchiladas, grilled quail and tamales. Wines are offered by the bottle and glass. Weekly specials and events. $5-20. 4281 East Hwy. 30-A, Seagrove Beach, (850) 231-0716. Review

Seacrest Cafe
Offering a varied selection of salads and hot and cold sandwiches, featuring traditional deli meats, chicken, steak, and Gulf seafood. Breakfast and lunch until March then serving dinner through September. The menu includes a lengthy dessert list and wine and beer. $4-10, 10343 E. Hwy 30A, Seacrest Beach, 231-1363. Review

Solaris Dinner/Dance Cruise 3/4
Drink, dine, and even dance on the water with an evening cruise from Baytowne Marina. SunQuest Cruises’ entertainment yacht Solaris offers fine ining and musical entertainment. Limited advance reservation menu, wine and full bar, as well as special cruises. $65 for dinner and cruise. SunQuest Cruises, Baytowne Marina, Sandestin. 650-2519. Review


(Top)
Big City American Bistro
A bistro offering an extensive menu of both high toned and comfort food such as meat loaf and mac and cheese. Other choices are rack of lamb, grilled fish and steaks, and pizza. Polished service, and swoon-inducing desserts. Wine and beer. $5-29, 171 SW Brooks Street, FWB, 664-0664.

Bluewater Bistro & Bar
Serving lunch M-F and dinner Tu-Sat. Salads, sandwiches, enchiladas, steak, seafood, and pasta. Separate menus for lunch and dinner. $5- 20, 14 NE Racetrack Rd, FWB, 863-2143

Cafe Thirty-A
Cafe Thirty-A has been here a while. Finding out why can be a delicious experience. A nightly-changing menu offers steaks, chicken, pork,
lamb, and local seafood elegantly prepared with imaginative sauces and sides, courteously served in a beautiful beach-house atmosphere. Lobster bisque, stone crab claws, seasonal fish and shellfish, and wood oven-baked pizzas. Full bar. $8-36. 3899 E. Scenic Highway 30-A, Seagrove Beach, (850) 231-2166.Review

Camille’s at Crystal Beach

Gulf Coast/New Orleans cooking meets the flavors of Japan in this warm, cozy dining establishment with a Gulf view. Seafood rules both on the regular menu and at the sushi bar. Full bar service offered. $4-20, 2931 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, 337-8860.

The Melting Pot
Fondue central, with cheese, meat, chicken, duck, and seafood fondues, blended tableside, complete with diner participation. Choose traditional, Caribbean, and do-it-yourself fondue-based meals. Save room for the chocolate fondues. Dinner daily, full bar. $8-52 and up. 11394 U.S. 98 West, Destin, (850) 269-2227. Review

Picolo and the Red Bar
Blackboard specials every day for lunch and dinner. Salads, burgers, soup, fish of the day, baked eggplant, pasta, and manicotti. Crab cakes on the weekends. $5-18, 70 Holt Ave, Grayton Bch, 231-1008

Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club
Fine food, attentive service and a great view of the Gulf, all in one place. Well-chosen club menu offers both land and sea based food, simply and elegantly presented in a comfortable atmosphere. Grilled fish, beef, pork, and pasta dishes. Daily specials and full bar for lunch and dinner. $5-31, 4801 Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, 267-2305. Review

Seagrove Village Market Café
Lunch and dinner served from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. Also a full service grocery store featuring fresh cut steaks, salads, beer and wine. A local’s habit for 53 years. $4-16, 3004 Hwy 395 South, 231-5736.

Trader Vic’s
Get a fix of the tropics at Trader
Vic’s. Start off with one of the house’s specialty drinks, ranging from Mai Tais to Potted Parrots. Follow with an array of Polynesian, Chinese and Asian -inspired appetizers and entrees, including crispy duck, Hawaiian pork chops, curries, or steaks, seafood and chops prepared in a wood-fired oven. Desserts and after-dinner coffee
drinks. Sunday brunch. $6-32. 4201 Two Trees Road (Palms of Destin), Destin, (850) 351-0900.
Review

Vin’tij
For 10 years, Vin’tij has served some of the best-prepared fresh fish around, along with pork, chicken, and beef, prepared with imaginative sides and paired with a variety of wines. Fish of the day, snacks, sushi on Friday and Saturday. Lunch and dinner daily, wine and beer. $5 - 31. 10859 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin, 650-9820.
Review



Bay Cafe
Splendid French and French-inspired food served in a romantic atmosphere indoors or outdoors just under the Brooks Bridge. Choose from seafood, beef, chicken, duck, and some rarely seen French specialties. Terrific bread. Wine by the glass or bottle. Reservations accepted. $4-28, 233 Alconese Avenue, FWB, 244-3550. Review

Café Provence
Cafe Provence. Delicious soups, bread and desserts made daily. Fish, seafood, beef, lamb andduck all prepared from the freshest ingredients,served in a stylish French country atmosphere. Wonderful wines and full bar.Open for lunch and dinner Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Reservations suggested. $5-45. 35 Mussett Bayou Road, Santa Rosa Beach. (850) 622-3022.
Review


(Top)

Caffe Italia 1/3
Set in an 80-year-old house on the water, Caffe Italia offers comfort and friendly service. Traditional Italian-style appetizers, pastas, lasagna, pizzas, and house specialties, made with fresh herbs and local fish. Wine, beer, and bar. $4-24.,189 Brooks Street, Fort Walton Beach, 664-0035. Review

Carrabba’s
Enjoy well-prepared and generously portioned Italian classics and specialties in a comfortable atmosphere friendly to adults and kids. Lasagne, ravioli, veal marsala, house made sausage, wood-fired pizzas, beef, chicken and seafood options, with nightly specials. Dinner daily, lunch and dinner on Sunday and full bar service. $4-22. 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Silver Sands Factory Stores, 837-1140. Review

Enzo's Small and elegant, Enzo’s serves an ambitious menu of Italian standards
and specialties, including pastas with chicken, seafood or veal with an interesting selection of appetizers. Steaks, pizzas and calzones of all kinds. Excellent desserts. Wine and beer. $5-21. 1598 CR-393, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-3003.

Fat Clemenza’s 2/3
Pizza the way it should be, served piping hot from a brick oven, with simple and flavorful toppings. Traditional Italian menu offers bruschetta, pasta, calamari, ravioli, lasagna, and calzones. Don’t pass up dessert. Beer and wine, daily specials. $4-22. 12273 U.S. 98, Holiday Plaza, Destin, 650-5980.
Review

Graffiti
Mediterranean meets relaxed Florida coastal. Graffiti offers seafood, steak, various pastas with a range of sauces, pizza, and walls covered with local artwork. The crayons are still on the tables. Wine and full bar service. $4-29, 707 Harbor Blvd. East, Destin, 654-2764. Review

Graffiti, Baytowne Wharf
A splash of color at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, Graffiti offers a well-prepared, artfully presented array of pastas, fish, seafood, chicken, beef and pork with wine and herb-based sauces. Try the pasta bolognese or shellfish low country. Nightly specials and noteworthy desserts. Wine, full bar. $5-29. 109 Cannery Lane, Village of Baytowne, Destin, (850) 424-6650. Review

The Magnolia Grill 1/3 Enjoy Italian favorites, or old-fashioned Florida-style seafood in a warm, friendly, homelike atmosphere. Pasta, grilled, fried, blackened or broiled seafood, giant steaks, and a lengthy, worthy dessert list. Wine and beer. $5-24, 157 Brooks Street SE, Fort Walton Beach, 302-0266.

Spicy Noodle Italian Bistro
A family-run business serving traditional Italian cuisine in a warm, friendly family atmosphere. We serve generous portions of quality meat, seafood, pasta and pizza dishes at an affordable price. Our bread, pizza dough and special dipping oil are made fresh daily. Lunch and dinner are served from 11:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Early bird and happy hour pricing from 3 to 6 p.m. We offer nightly specials and a children’s menu. Beer and wine are available. Dine in or take out. $4-19. 13667 East U.S. 98 (one mile east of Rosemary Beach), (850) 231-0955. www.spicy-noodle.com for complete menu and pricing.

 

What do you have a taste for?

American | Barbecue | Breakfast
Cajun/Creole | Casual | Coffee/Deli
Contemporary | Eclectic | French | German
Italian | Latin/Mexican | Mediterranian
Oriental | Pizza/Pasta | Seafood
Steaks
| Sushi | Southern | Thai

La Paz
La Paz offers just about anything one might want from a Mexican/Southwestern kitchen, including tamales, tacos, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas, throwing in a thoughtfully-prepared list of grilled local fish, shellfish and some imaginative spin-offs on classics. Daily specials, full bar. $4-20. 950 Gulf Shore Drive, Destin, (850) 837-2247. Review

Pepito’s 1/2
An enormous menu, plenty of room, and a friendly staff make Pepito’s a good bet for a Mexican snack or feast. Traditional and unusual fare includes carnitas, enchiladas, fajitas, vegetarian dishes, steaks and seafood specialties. $4-19. 757 Harbor Blvd, Destin, 650-7734. Review


(Top)
Ali Baba Grill Cafe 2/3
Satisfy your Greek and Middle Eastern cravings at this Fort Walton Beach lunch and dinner spot. Grilled lamb, beef, chicken and fish, as well as traditional Middle Eastern specialties like hummus, tabbouleh and baklava. Buffet available. $3-20, 550 Mary Esther Cut Off, FWB, 986-5555. Review

Bombay Masala
One-of-a-kind Indian dining, with assorted curries, rice dishes, and savory breads. Chicken, lamb, shrimp and goat dishes, spiced from mild to fiery, plus an extensive vegetarian menu. Exotic desserts and beverages. Lunch and dinner. $2-15, 326 Eglin Pkwy, Fort Walton Beach, 862-0978 Review


(Top)

Bangkok House
Still going strong at the same FWB location, Bangkok House offers an variety of Thai and other Asian-style dishes, including Thai curries, soups, dinner salads, roast duck, fried rice and noodle dishes, and plenty of seafood and vegetarian options. Weekly lunch buffet, full bar. $4-22. 201 Ferry Avenue, Fort Walton Beach, (850) 243-6911.Review

Dynasty Chinese Cuisine

All your Chinese favorites, classically prepared with individuality and served with style. Beef, chicken, pork and seafood, noodles and family-style dishes. Beer and wine. $2 - 19. 12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Plaza, Destin, 837-6675. Review

Lin's Asian Cuisine
Enjoy carefully prepared and artfully served Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes in a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. Chicken, beef, pork, duck, fish and shellfish are cooked to suit most tastes, and Lin's offers your favorites—General Tso's chicken, Mongolian beef, pad thai, lo mein and kung pao, among many others. Beer and wine. $2-15. 130 Scenic Gulf Dr. #5B, Miramar Beach, (850) 424-5888. Review

Lotus Thai Restaurant
Thai cuisine prepared by natives of Thailand. Hot bar offered as a lunch special and full menu all dad including stir-frys, pad thai and more. Open for lunch and dinner. 550 Mary Esther Blvd. (Longhorn Plaza), $3-$15, 243-3744.

Osaka
Choose sushi, hibachi, or traditional dining. Osaka offers bites or banquets of raw and cooked fish, seafood, tempura, steaks and noodles, served in a multi-roomed, designer-decorated atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $5 - 27 and up. 34745 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Destin, 650-4688.
Review

Osaka Sushi Rocks
It’s the little Sushi house on the Lagoon. Osaka Sushi Rocks offers an extensive list of sushi, sashimi, and rolls, both classic and regional specialties. Friendly, serene atmosphere. Tempura, noodles and teriyaki favorites also available. Wine and beer. $4-50. 108 Cannery Lane, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 351-1006
.

Sai-Kyo 1/2
Whether you go Japanese, Vietnamese, or pay a visit to both, this is the place. Sushi, rice dishes, and traditional soups (pho), meat and seafood rice platters, teriyaki, and stir-fries. Beer, wine, and sushi bar. $5-30. 14091 Emerald Coast Pkwy, (Emerald Coast Centre) Destin, 650-5319. Review

Samurai 2/3
Enjoy a variety of sushi and sashimi at Samurai’s bar. Or go for a full meal of beef, chicken, seafood, and noodles simply prepared and served with Japanese trimmings. Inside and outside dining, lunch specials. Beer, wine. $3 - 30, 4424 Commons Drive East, Destin, 269-0185. Review

Sushi Siam 1/2
East meets West and everyone wins at this attractive restaurant with an elegant atmosphere with reasonable prices. A full range of sushi, Japanese, Thai and a touch of European fare. Fish, shellfish, duck, beef, noodle and curry dishes, with full bar and sushi bar. $4-25. 4236 Legendary Drive, Destin Commons, 650-5861.Review


(Top)

Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakery
Widely, wildly assorted menu of stone baked pizzas, hoagies, calzones, salads, and specialty items. Pizzas traditional and exotic include pesto, jerk chicken, gourmet white, and the Magical Mystery Tour. Colorful psychedelic dÈcor and friendly service. $4-25. 960 Hwy 98E, Sunsations Plaza, Destin, 650-6420.

Roberto’s Pizzeria
Authentic Italian pizzeria serving homemade pies whole or by the slice, specialty seafood pizzas, muffulettas, lasagna, and great Italian salads plus beer and wine. Indoor/outdoor seating including our peaceful lakeside dining. All day and evening deliveries resort wide seven days a week. From small parties to large groups. Live music available and specialty menus to make your party a memorable experience. Contact Chris Ruyan, Event Coordinator, at (850) 218-2628 or call the restaurant at (850) 351-1998.

Spicy Noodle Italian Bistro
A family-run business serving traditional Italian cuisine in a warm, friendly family atmosphere. We serve generous portions of quality meat, seafood, pasta and pizza dishes at an affordable price. Our bread, pizza dough and special dipping oil are made fresh daily. Lunch and dinner are served from 11:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Early bird and happy hour pricing from 3 to 6 p.m. We offer nightly specials and a children’s menu. Beer and wine are available. Dine in or take out. $4-19. 13667 East U.S. 98 (one mile east of Rosemary Beach), (850) 231-0955. www.spicy-noodle.com for complete menu and pricing.


(Top)
AJ's Seafood and Oyster Bar
Seafood plus atmosphere overlooking the harbor. Oyster happy hour every day,1/2 off sunset dinner entrees inside the restaurant from 4 - 6:30 PM. Live bands, dancing, late hours and 1/2 off appetizers from 4-7 p.m. at Club Bimini Sunset Central. $8-18, 116 Hwy 98E Destin, 837-1913.

baby J’s Casual dining on the Destin
harbor, with refined, thoughtfully-executed food.
Raw oysters, sushi rolls, fish tacos, sandwiches,
and daily specials of grilled, steamed and blackened fish and seafood, plus pasta, beef and
chicken. Friendly, attentive service. $6-30. 194
Harbor Blvd., Destin, (850) 269-2222. Review

Boathouse Oyster Bar
Open daily at 11 a.m. until ? with entertainment seven days a week. Award-winning gumbo, oysters and the coldest beer in town. On the Destin Harbor _ mile east of the Destin Bridge, 288 U.S. 98 E. $2.50-$18.95. (850) 837-3645.

Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf 3/4
A tradition since 1977, Capt. Dave’s is a go-to place for the kind of seafood that made this area famous. A time-tested selection of fried, grilled, and broiled fish, shellfish, steaks and chicken, with house and seasonal specialties. Full bar. $5-25. 3796 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, 837-2627. Review

Capt.’s Table Fish House Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Serves fresh local seafood. “We catch our fresh fish off our two commercial boats.” Grouper, trigger, amberjack, red fish. Full bar. 1110 St. Andrews, Panama City, (850) 767-9933.

Crab Trap (2 locations)
Getting seafood to the people is what it’s all about at Crab Trap. Huge space and plenty of tables, efficient staff, and a menu full of crab, shrimp, fish and shellfish prepared in old and new-fashioned ways. Full bar, $5-40. 3500 Scenic Hwy 98E, Destin, 654-2722 and 1430 Hwy 98W, Okaloosa Island Boardwalk, 301-0959. Review

Elmo’s Grill
Family seafood house, also serving burgers and more. $7-20, Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Bch, 267-2299

Fisherman’s Wharf
Casual seafood dining, plain or fancy, overlooking the Destin fishing docks. Grilled, fried or blackened local fish and seafood, house specialties like East Pass grouper, mixed platters, and starters like ‘gator wings and fried green tomatoes. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $4- 23. 210-D U.S. 98, Destin, (850) 654-4766. Review

Giuseppi’s Wharf
Feast on the bay and on the sunset, at this newly renovated Niceville favorite. Gulf, Italian and Louisiana-style seafood, steaks, and pasta specialties served in a family-friendly atmosphere with a great view of the water. Lunch and dinner daily, full bar. $4- 16. 821 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, (850) 678-4229. Review

Hammerhead’s Bar & Grille
Party to live music and sunsets on the open deck overlooking the bay. Featuring chargrilled oysters on the half shell, steamed seafood buckets, grilled sandwiches and a large selection of specialty cocktails. $9-25, Village of Baytowne Wharf, 351-1997.

Harbor Docks
Overlooking the Destin Harbor featuring original atmosphere and great seafood from our own seafood market, sushi and hibachi. Live entertainment on the deck. $4-25, 538 Hwy 98, Destin, 837-2506.

Louisiana Lagniappe
Like the name says, prepare for something extra at Lagniappe, with Louisiana Creole seafood specialties from the Gulf, enriched with
opulent sauces and toppings. Grilled, blackened, fried or baked grouper, shrimp, crab, swordfish, beef and chicken served in generous portions, with a great view thrown in. Sunday brunch, full bar. $6-33. 775 Gulf Shore Drive, Destin, (850) 837-0881.
Review

The Love Shack
Stay away fools, 'cause food rules at the Love Shack. An outdoor pool and walls full of painted fish make a family and kid-friendly atmosphere. A varied menu features local seafood, steaks, chicken, ribs, and pasta dishes, with Southwest and Caribbean-style preparation. Jerk chicken, fish tacos, fried pickles and seafood baskets available, and more. Full bar. $4-22. 306 Bald Eagle Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-0399. Review

Nick’s
Going strong at 40-plus, Nick’s is a local tradition for the best of the Gulf’s fish and shellfish. Fish, shrimp, oysters, scallops, and crab served grilled, steamed, or fried in a casual family atmosphere. Daily specials and raw oysters in season. Serving beer and wine. $4-26, 7585 Hwy 20, Basin Bayou, Freeport, 835-2222. Review

Old Bay Steamer - 1/3
Wide variety of fresh steamed seafood served in every imaginable combination. Choose from crab, shrimp, lobster, oysters, clams, mussels, and fresh catch of the day. Pasta and steak/seafood pairings also offered.Friendly, efficient service. Open daily for dinner, with full bar. $4 –27, 102 Santa Rosa Blvd., Okaloosa Island, 664-2795.
Review

Old Florida Fish House 1/3
A great big ole place deep in summer tourist country, offering an attentive staff and seafood served deep-fried, grilled with fancy sauces or even uncooked at the sushi bar. Plenty of choices of fresh fish, shellfish, and beef. Daily specials, full bar, live music. $4-29. 5235 E Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach, 534-3045.

Original Waterfront Crab Shack 1/3
A taste of the good old days in one of the oldest waterfront seafood houses in the area. A menu crowded with fresh local seafood served fried, grilled, or steamed in every combination. Soups, salads, steaks, and sandwiches too. Full bar service with open patio/deck. Arrive by car or boat. $5-25, 104 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, FWB, 664-0345. Review

Poppy’s Seafood Factory
Fine dining offering local and regional fish and shellfish boiled, steamed, grilled, broiled, blackened, fried, or in sauce with pasta. Steaks, chicken and pork are also offered, all with a coastal/Caribbean flavor and featuring an open air bar overlooking the bay. Open for lunch and dinner daily, with full bar service. $5-50, Village of Baytowne Wharf, Destin, 351-1996. Review

Shades at the Loop
Good selection of local seafood and land fare, simply prepared, served with efficiency and a smile. Grilled, fried, and blackened fish and chicken, sandwiches and salads. Pork chops, steak, even wings and pizza. Open late, with full bar, wide choice of draft and bottled beers. $5-24, 10952 Hwy 30A, Inlet Beach, 231-9410.
Review

Staff’s Seafood Restaurant
Excellent service is a hallmark of one of the area’s oldest dining establishments. Open only for dinner. $14-25, 24 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, 243-3482.

Steamboat Bar & Grill
Menu features etouffee, seafood, steaks, pasta, sandwiches, raw bar and Asian food. Open daily for lunch and dinner. $5-22. Live music and happy hour, 3-7 p.m. daily. Daily specials and full bar service. Inside and outside dining with covered patio. 4943 U.S. 98 West, Suite #1, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-1522.

Stinky’s Fish Camp 2/3
Seafood is king at this informal Santa Rosa Beach eatery. Oysters “all ways,” crawfish pie, catfish or frog legs meuniere, and gumbo are just a few of the Louisiana-inspired dishes. Service is friendly and attentive. Open daily, 11 a.m. to midnight. Full bar. $7-32. 5960 Scenic Highway 30-A. (850) 267-3053.
Review

Zampieri’s Harbor Grille
Glittering on the water, Harbor Grille offers superb fish, seafood, beef, and chicken, prepared with style and served attentively. Loin of swordfish with shrimp gravy, free range chicken with mushroom cabbage rolls, steaks, and a wider-than-usual array of desserts and daily specials. Full bar and live music too. $6-32. 320 Hwy 98E, Destin, 650-3900.
Review


(Top)
Boar’s Head Restaurant & Tavern

Since 1978, a good reason to drive to Panama City Beach. Beef, seafood, pork, chicken, and game foods simply prepared, with an emphasis on grilling. Regular house specialties, nightly specials and live entertainment Wed-Sat. Full bar service. $3.50 - $27. Review

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
A n ongoing celebration of exceptional food and wine. Enjoy the finest aged prime beef and 100 wines by the glass in a lively, stylish atmosphere. Fleming’s is where evenings out become memorable times. 600 Grand Boulevard Suite M105 Sandestin, Florida 32550 850-269-0830

Pandora's
The Emerald Coast’s oldest family-owned steakhouse specializing in only the finest choice USDA beef charbroiled over an open oak fire and the freshest local seafood. Prime rib special Wednesday and Sunday, only $14.95. Music with Greg Pendleton Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Tuesday is Jazz Night with Sean Dietrich and Jim Ates. Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday, 5-7 p.m. Open 5 p.m.; call for reservations. Closed Mondays. 1226 Santa Rosa Blvd., Okaloosa Island, (850) 244-8669.Review

Seagar’s
The area’s first AAA 4-Diamond restaurant specializing in the finest prime beef and freshest seafood available. Private dining facilities and wine room with more than 800 labels. Features tableside preparations and live piano nightly. Reservations recommended. 622-1500. $10-50. 4000 Sandestin Blvd., at the Hilton Sandestin. www.SeagarsDestin.com

Zampieri’s Harbor Grille
Glittering on the water, Harbor Grille offers superb fish, seafood, beef, and chicken, prepared with style and served attentively. Loin of swordfish with shrimp gravy, free range chicken with mushroom cabbage rolls, steaks, and a wider-than-usual array of desserts and daily specials. Full bar and live music too. $6-32. 320 Hwy 98E, Destin, 650-3900.
Review

(Top)

Camille’s at Crystal Beach
$5-10, 2931 Scenic Hwy 98, Crystal Beach, 337-8860.

Osaka Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar
34745 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 650-4688
.
Review

Harbor Docks
$3-12, 538 Hwy 98, Destin, 837-2506.
Old Florida Fish House, $4-29, 5235 E Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach, 534-3045.

SaiKyo 1/2
$5-30, 14091 Emerald Coast Pkwy (Emerald Coast Centre), 650-5319. Review

Taisho Seafood & Steaks
11610 Emerald Coast Pkwy, 650-2996.
Review


(Top)

Harbor Docks
Serving lunch daily from 11-4 p.m. offering fresh veggie plates, Thai food, shrimp, fish sandwiches and plates, and daily specials. $3-12 538 Hwy 98, Destin, 837-2506

Mary’s Kitchen
Home cooking specializing in fried chicken
and meat loaf, like Mom used to make.
$2-10, 575D N. Beal Pkwy, FWB, 863-1141


(Top)

Thai Delights
Located in the heart of Destin, Thai Delights offers exemplary Thai cuisine, using fresh local seafood and plenty of flavorful Thai herbs and seasoning. Choose from stir-fries, curries, noodles, spicy soups and salads. Beer and wine are available. $4-25, 205 Mountain Drive, Destin, 650-3945. Review

Copyright © The Beachcomber, Inc. 2003 - 2008. All rights reserved.