When you live on the coast, there’s an endless array of beautiful seafood at your fingertips, and best-loved examples of the gilled glories of the Gulf include the grouper that swim offshore. One bite of these flaky, tender fish and you’ll be hooked, and the restaurants on Panama City Beach showcase grouper in every way imaginable. And while they certainly warrant luxury when it comes to plating and pairings, these fine fish are best when caught between two buns.
Fatty’s Sandwich Shop
Starting at the East end of Panama City Beach, Fatty’s Sandwich Shop is a well-known restaurant to stop and grab a sandwich on the way to the beach. Fatty’s has a sandwich option for every member of the family, whether you are looking for the classics or something with a bit of a twist. The muffuletta features layers of Italian meats, provolone, and a zesty olive salad on a traditional muffuletta roll. The Gyro offers a Mediterranean twist with seasoned lamb, fresh vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce wrapped in warm pita bread. These sandwiches, along with many others, showcase Fatty's commitment to hearty and flavorful meals.
Schooners
Offering a wide variety of items from cheese curds to fish tacos, Schooners is a popular choice for many visitors due not only to its great food, but its location. Placed directly on the white sandy beaches, Schooners uses fresh ingredients that don’t need a whole lot of dressing up. Among their biggest catches is the Gulf Fresh Grouper Sandwich, a locally caught fillet perfectly fried, grilled or blackened to be tender and juicy and served on a fresh bun with crisp lettuce and tomato. And while some restaurants might give all the glory to the hands at work in their kitchen, the owners at Schooners give major cred to the fishermen who harvest these fine specimens of the sea.
Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant
We’ve heard seafood tastes better under a tiki hut, especially when it’s located right on the beach. Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant offers a tempting selection of sandwiches, perfect for a beachside meal. The Redfish Sandwich features a fried filet of redfish with a spicy remoulade sauce, accompanied by lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles. The Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich brings a tropical twist with a grilled chicken breast glazed in teriyaki, topped with Monterey Jack cheese and grilled pineapple, served with the same fresh accompaniments. These sandwiches, served with French fries, promise a flavorful and satisfying dining experience by the water.
Patches Pub
Patches Pub offers a variety of delicious sandwiches, each served with your choice of side. One standout is the Drunkin Chicken sandwich, featuring a grilled chicken breast smothered in bourbon BBQ sauce, topped with smoked gouda, bacon, and caramelized onions, all served on a ciabatta roll. Other popular options include the Grouper Sandwich, the Patches Cuban, and the Zesty Chicken Sandwich, offering a range of flavors from smoky and savory to spicy and tangy.
Runaway Island
Runaway Island is more than just a beachfront restaurant. It’s a laid-back escape with a view and a menu to match. Their Blackened Grouper Sandwich is a fan favorite, featuring a generous filet seasoned to perfection and served with lettuce, tomato, and a signature island sauce on a soft bun. The beachy setting, complete with a two-level deck overlooking the Gulf, makes this spot ideal for soaking in a sunset while savoring some of the freshest seafood around.
The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House
A longtime staple for both locals and visitors, The Back Porch knows how to do seafood right. Their Chargrilled Grouper Sandwich is a highlight, served with just the right balance of seasoning and sear to let the flavor of the fish shine. Pair it with a side of hushpuppies or seasoned fries and you’ve got a meal that captures the taste of the coast in every bite. With views of the beach and a laid-back vibe, this is a go-to spot for those craving classic flavors with a seaside flair.
