With so many dining options in Panama City Beach, choosing where to eat can feel a bit overwhelming. While it’s easy to settle for the closest spot, the real culinary treasures are spread throughout the area, waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking to eat like a local and make your meals a memorable part of your trip, consider seeking out a few of these standout spots.
The following list is in no particular order and is just a taste of the delicious dining experiences you’ll find in Panama City Beach.
Firefly
Firefly offers an upscale dining experience in a relaxed, beach-town setting. Whether you’re dressed casually or in your best evening attire, you’ll feel right at home beneath the soft glow of twinkling lights and elegant decor. Signature dishes like the she crab soup, stuffed filet mignon, and seasonal Gulf fish showcase the chef’s flair, and the flaming crème brûlée paired with a pour of ice wine makes for a grand finale.
David’s New Orleans Style Sno-Balls
Don’t let the name fool you, this place offers more than just sweet treats. While the sno-balls come in 47 vibrant flavors and are perfect for cooling off on a hot day, the savory side of the menu is equally impressive. The roast beef po’ boy is a local favorite, stacked high and full of flavor, while muffulettas bring a taste of New Orleans to the Gulf Coast.
Saltwater Grill
Home to a massive 25,000-gallon aquarium, Saltwater Grill offers an immersive dining experience in more ways than one. The atmosphere is perfect for special occasions, but the menu is approachable and filled with fresh seafood options like grilled red snapper and seared tuna. Diners can also select a live Maine lobster from the tank for a truly fresh, ocean-to-table meal.
Another Broken Egg Cafe
Brunch lovers will feel right at home at Another Broken Egg Cafe, where breakfast and lunch are served daily until 2 p.m. This popular spot features an array of Southern-inspired brunch fare, from crab cake benedict and shrimp n’ grits to chicken and waffles. Mimosas and bloody marys are available by the glass or pitcher, making it a great way to start a laid-back beach day.
Dee’s Hangout
Known for its mix of coastal cuisine and Cajun influence, Dee’s Hangout serves up big flavor in a casual setting. Chef Dee puts his own spin on Gulf Coast staples, with daily specials scribbled on a chalkboard that regulars love to check. Favorites include the smoked tuna dip, fried catfish étouffée, and hearty jambalaya that brings a little Louisiana spice to the table.
Dusty’s Oyster Bar & Eatery
Dusty’s is a Panama City Beach institution, offering a no-frills, dive-bar vibe that draws in locals and visitors alike. With dollar bills covering the walls and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place to kick back and enjoy oysters any way you like them, baked, fried or raw. Despite the tongue-in-cheek slogan about “lousy food,” the flavors here keep people coming back for more.
From elegant seafood dinners and casual brunches to Louisiana-style po’ boys and quirky coastal spots, these Panama City Beach eateries are full of personality and flavor. Whether you’re craving something refined or relaxed, there’s a table waiting for you.
