Restaurants in Panama City Beach are coastal cravings come to life: ocean views, laid-back vibes, and seafood so fresh it practically swims to your plate. It’s where I refuel between beach strolls and sunset cruises, toes still sandy and appetite wide open.
I’ve got blackened grouper tacos topped with pineapple salsa, a frozen daiquiri in hand, and a sea breeze tugging at the umbrella—right here in sunny, surf-loving Panama City Beach, Florida. Who knew casual dining could taste this tropical?
"Flip-flops, fresh catch, and Gulf flavor with flair? This is Panama City Beach on a plate!"
This is Why I Keep Coming Back for More:
Unique Restaurants in Panama City Beach, Florida:
1. Dine Under Twinkling Lights at Firefly
Firefly is an award-winning dining gem in Panama City Beach, owned and operated by executive chef Derek Langford and restaurateur Dave Trepanier. Since opening in 2007, Firefly has garnered numerous accolades, offering guests a memorable, elegant experience.
Recommended For: Romantic dinners, fine-dining enthusiasts, seafood lovers, and anyone seeking an award-winning culinary experience in a Mediterranean bistro setting.
- Indulge in elegant dishes like espresso-rubbed pork shanks, brown butter-seared scallops, and shrimp with summer vegetable pasta.
- Relax in the Mediterranean-inspired dining room or catch the game at the full-service bar with top-shelf cocktails.
- Visit the 535 Library Lounge for an impressive selection of fine wines.
- Explore the raw bar offerings and fresh sushi options at the on-site sushi bar.
- Experience why Firefly is consistently celebrated as one of the region’s premier dining destinations.
Firefly, 535 N Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone: 850-249-3359
2. Kick Back Beachside at Runaway Island
Runaway Island has been delighting guests for over two decades with high-quality local seafood, all served in a stunning bi-level space overlooking Panama City Beach.
Recommended For: Seafood lovers, beachgoers, families, and anyone craving delicious coastal fare with oceanfront views and lively entertainment.
- Feast on favorites like blackened fish tacos, grilled mahi mahi with tomato key lime butter, and New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp.
- Relax indoors across two dining levels or enjoy the ocean breeze on the outdoor deck.
- Listen to live entertainment featured year-round, adding energy and fun to your meal.
- Walk straight from the restaurant’s boardwalk onto the stunning white sands of Panama City Beach.
- Visit for lunch or dinner to experience the perfect blend of great food, views, and atmosphere.
Runaway Island, 14521 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Phone: 850-634-4884
Date Ideas:
3. Savor Surf Meets Sophistication at Saltwater Grill
Saltwater Grill, opened in 2002 by executive chef Chris Joyner, is a beloved Panama City Beach dining spot centered around an impressive 25,000-gallon tropical saltwater aquarium filled with native Florida marine life.
Recommended For: Seafood enthusiasts, couples, steak lovers, and anyone looking for a memorable dining experience paired with a stunning aquarium backdrop.
- Enjoy Gulf-fresh favorites like snapper Ponchartrain, sesame-seared tuna, grouper Imperial, and bronzed mahi mahi.
- Dine in a unique setting with clear views of the spectacular saltwater aquarium.
- Pair your meal with expertly prepared USDA Prime steaks and fine game entrées.
- Take advantage of happy hour and early bird specials, including delicious drinks and light bites.
- Experience an elegant yet approachable atmosphere perfect for couples and special occasions.
Saltwater Grill, 11040 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone: 850-230-2739
If you love casual eateries, check out this video of the History Class Brewing Company.
4. Experience Gulf-to-Table Excellence at The Grand Marlin Restaurant and Oyster Bar
The Grand Marlin Restaurant and Oyster Bar, located on Panama City Beach’s Lighthouse Marina, is a stunning waterfront dining destination. Overlooking the beautiful Grand Lagoon, the restaurant is celebrated for its high-quality daily seafood specials crafted from the freshest daily catches.
Recommended For: Seafood lovers, oyster enthusiasts, couples, and anyone looking for an elegant waterfront dining experience with shareable delicacies and craft cuisine.
- Feast on daily seafood specials made from the freshest fish caught that day.
- Delight in oysters sourced from Apalachicola and East Bay, shucked fresh to order at the raw bar.
- Savor house specialties like Loved and Rubbed Scottish salmon with caramelized rub and lemon butter.
- Share unique small plates like crispy lobster fingers paired with vanilla bean-infused honey mustard sauce.
- Enjoy beautiful views of Grand Lagoon while dining in a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
The Grand Marlin, 5323 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Phone: 850-249-1500
5. If You’re Craving Sushi with Style, Grab a Seat at Fin’s Japanese Sushi and Grill
Fin's Japanese Sushi and Grill offers one of Panama City’s most authentic Asian dining experiences, renowned for its high-quality dine-in and takeout service and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. With a menu featuring traditional Japanese entrées made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Fin’s is a top choice for couples, families, and sushi lovers alike.
Recommended For: Sushi enthusiasts, families, couples, and anyone craving authentic Japanese cuisine in a welcoming, casual setting.
- Enjoy delicious Japanese entrées like sautéed beef don, shrimp or salmon teriyaki, and hibachi-style plates with assorted vegetables and egg noodles.
- Savor sushi combination platters crafted with precision and fresh ingredients.
- Start your meal with Asian-style appetizers like agedashi tofu, pork shu mai, or savory gyoza.
- Delight in seafood specialties such as soft-shell crab, crispy crab rangoons, and coconut shrimp.
- Experience a relaxed, family-friendly environment perfect for both dine-in and takeout meals.
Fin's Japanese Sushi and Grill, 732 W 23rd St, Panama City, FL 32405
Phone: 850-769-0888
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What makes Panama City Beach a great destination?
- Panama City Beach is one of the Gulf of Mexico's loveliest beachfront destinations, home to more than 27 miles of pristine white sands and glistening turquoise waters.
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What activities can couples enjoy in Panama City Beach?
- Couples traveling to the area can enjoy world-renowned scuba diving, swimming, and fishing experiences at dozens of public beach access points.
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Are there natural parks in Panama City Beach?
- Visitors can also peruse the trails and natural areas of the region's two lovely state parks.
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Where can visitors enjoy the best dining in Panama City Beach?
- Spectacular sunsets are showcased from many of the city's best waterfront dining rooms, which serve up high-quality fresh seafood entrées and delicious fried fish platters.
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