Panama City Beach Restaurants: Top Places to Dine on the Florida Coast

Panama City Beach Restaurants

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Panama City Beach Restaurants – If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, Panama City Beach is the place to be.

Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant

Address: 5551 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Menu Items:

Grouper Pontchartrain

Lobster Tail

Seafood Gumbo

Key Lime Pie

Prime Rib

Website: Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant

Hours: Varies, check website for current hours.

The Grand Marlin

Address: 5323 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Menu Items:

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Grouper Piccata

Lobster Mac & Cheese

Blue Marlin

Oysters Rockefeller

Website: The Grand Marlin

Hours: Varies, check website for current hours.

Runaway Island Beach Bar & Grill

Address: 14521 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Menu Items:

Crab Cakes

Blackened Mahi Tacos

Seafood Paella

Runaway Burger

Key Lime Pie Martini

Website: Runaway Island Beach Bar & Grill

Hours: Varies, check website for current hours.

Pineapple Willy’s

Address: 9875 S Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

Menu Items:

Famous Beach Burgers

Seafood Nachos

Willy’s Catch

Grouper Sandwich

Key Lime Pie

Website: Pineapple Willy’s

Hours: Varies, check website for current hours.

Dee’s Hang Out

Address: 10440 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Menu Items:

Coconut Shrimp

Seafood Platter

Cajun Pasta

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich

Banana Pudding

Website: Dee’s Hang Out

Hours: Varies, check website for current hours.



With its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico, this Florida city is known for its fresh seafood and beachfront restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for casual dining or a fine dining experience, there is something for everyone.

Panama City Beach restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisines, including American, seafood, and international fare. You can find everything from classic seafood dishes like shrimp and grits to international favorites like sushi and Thai cuisine. Many restaurants also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to cater to all dietary needs.

When it comes to local seafood, Panama City Beach is a must-visit destination. You can enjoy fresh catches like grouper, snapper, and oysters at many of the city’s seafood restaurants. Some of the most popular seafood spots include The Grand Marlin Restaurant & Oyster Bar and Bayou Bill’s Crab House.

In addition to seafood, Panama City Beach is also known for its casual dining options. You can grab a quick bite at a beachside café or enjoy a burger and fries at a local diner. For a more upscale experience, you can visit one of the city’s fine dining restaurants like Firefly or The Back Porch.

Overall, Panama City Beach offers a diverse dining scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of international cuisine, you’re sure to find something delicious to try.

Top Seafood Restaurants

When visiting Panama City Beach, you can’t miss out on trying some of the best seafood restaurants in town. Here are two of the top seafood restaurants that you should definitely check out.

The Grand Marlin Experience

If you’re looking for an upscale seafood dining experience, The Grand Marlin is the perfect place for you. Located on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, this restaurant offers a stunning view of the ocean while you enjoy your meal.

Their menu is full of fresh seafood options, including shrimp, oysters, and scallops. If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, their grouper sandwich is a must-try. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list to complement your meal.

The Grand Marlin restaurant has a casual yet elegant atmosphere, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring that you have an enjoyable dining experience.

Local Favorites

If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, the local seafood restaurants are a great option. One of the most popular local seafood restaurants is Bayou Bill’s Crab House. This restaurant has been part of the local tradition since 1986 and is known for its fresh seafood.

Their menu includes a variety of seafood options, including shrimp, oysters, and crab. If you’re in the mood for something different, try their Cajun-style crawfish. The restaurant also has a kid’s menu, making it a great option for families.

Bayou Bill’s Crab House has a laid-back atmosphere, with a friendly staff that makes you feel right at home. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for your money.

Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale dining experience or a more casual meal, Panama City Beach has plenty of seafood restaurants to choose from. Don’t miss out on trying some of the best seafood in town.

Casual Eats and Family-Friendly Spots

If you’re looking for a casual dining experience with your family, Panama City Beach has plenty of options to choose from. From burgers and chicken wings to seafood and salads, there’s something for everyone. Here are two great options to consider:

Pier Park Dining

Pier Park is a popular shopping and dining destination in Panama City Beach. There are plenty of options for casual dining, including Five Guys Burgers and Fries, which is known for their juicy burgers and crispy fries. If you’re in the mood for chicken, try Dick’s Last Resort, where the chicken wings are a must-try.

For a more family-friendly option, head to Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews. They have a great kids menu with options like mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches. You can also customize your burger with a variety of toppings and sauces.

Beachfront Casualties

If you’re looking for a beachfront dining experience, Pineapple Willy’s is a great option. They have a large outdoor deck with beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. The menu features seafood, salads, and sandwiches. Try the Pineapple Willy’s World Famous Pineapple Willy Burger, which is topped with grilled pineapple and teriyaki sauce.

For a more casual option, head to Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant. They have a large menu with options like burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The kids menu has options like chicken tenders and grilled cheese sandwiches. Plus, they have a large outdoor seating area with a playground for the kids to enjoy.

Overall, Panama City Beach has plenty of options for casual dining and family-friendly spots. Whether you’re in the mood for burgers, chicken wings, or seafood, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your family will enjoy.

Fine Dining and Romantic Spots

If you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a fine dining experience in Panama City Beach, you’re in luck. The city has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Firefly’s Ambiance

Firefly is a popular restaurant in Panama City Beach known for its romantic ambiance. The restaurant has a beautiful outdoor seating area with a fireplace, perfect for a cozy dinner. Their indoor seating area is also elegant and intimate, with dim lighting and comfortable seating arrangements.

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, ranging from seafood to steak. Their menu changes frequently, so you can always expect something new. Firefly has an extensive wine list, with over 500 bottles to choose from. The restaurant has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for their wine selection.

If you’re planning to visit Firefly, it’s recommended that you make a reservation in advance. The restaurant can get quite busy, especially during peak season.

Intimate Settings

If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, there are plenty of options to choose from in Panama City Beach. Many restaurants offer private dining rooms, perfect for a romantic dinner for two.

One such restaurant is the Saltwater Grill. The restaurant has a private dining room that can seat up to 20 people. The room is elegantly decorated, with dim lighting and comfortable seating arrangements. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, ranging from seafood to steak.

Another option is the Restaurant Paradis. The restaurant has a private dining room that can seat up to 12 people. The room is beautifully decorated, with elegant lighting and comfortable seating arrangements. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, ranging from seafood to steak.

When visiting these restaurants, it’s important to note that they are fine dining establishments. The service is top-notch, and the prices reflect that. However, if you’re looking for a romantic and intimate dining experience, these restaurants are definitely worth a visit.

International Flavors in PCB

If you’re looking for international cuisine, Panama City Beach has a lot to offer. From Italian delicacies to Mexican and Caribbean tastes, you can find a variety of flavors to satisfy your cravings.

Italian Delicacies

For an authentic Italian experience, you can head over to Pomodoro’s Pasta & Subs, where you can enjoy classic Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, chicken parmesan, and lasagna. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff that will make you feel at home.

Another great option is Enzo’s Italian Restaurant, where you can indulge in delicious seafood pasta dishes like linguine with clams and mussels or shrimp scampi. The restaurant also offers pizzas, calzones, and other Italian favorites.

Mexican and Caribbean Tastes

If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, you can check out Casa Amici, where you can enjoy classic Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. The restaurant also offers a variety of margaritas and other cocktails to complement your meal.

For a taste of the Caribbean, you can visit Dat Cajun Place Cafe, where you can try the gumbo or the tuna poke bowl. The restaurant also offers live music and a fun atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re on vacation.

If you’re a fan of sushi, you can also find some great options in PCB. Zen Garden Market & Sushi offers a variety of sushi rolls and other Japanese dishes, while Firefly has a sushi bar and a variety of other international dishes.

Overall, Panama City Beach has a great selection of international restaurants that offer a variety of flavors and cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Mexican, Caribbean, or something else entirely, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your taste buds.

Bars and Nightlife

Panama City Beach is known for its lively nightlife and abundance of bars. Whether you’re looking for a casual dive bar or a trendy rooftop lounge, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best bars and nightlife spots in Panama City Beach.

Happy Hour Hotspots

Looking for a great place to unwind after a long day at the beach? Check out some of the best happy hour hotspots in Panama City Beach. Schooners is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering great drink specials and live music. Another great option is Runaway Island, which has a large outdoor patio and a wide selection of craft beers.

If you’re in the mood for some classic beachside vibes, head over to Dee’s Hang Out. This casual bar is known for its friendly bartenders and laid-back atmosphere. They also have a great happy hour, with discounted drinks and appetizers.

Live Music Venues

Panama City Beach is home to some of the best live music venues in the area. One of the most popular spots is Schooners, which hosts live music every night of the week. They feature a variety of local and regional acts, playing everything from classic rock to country.

For a more intimate setting, check out the rooftop bar at Runaway Island. They often have acoustic acts playing on the weekends, and the ocean views make for a picturesque backdrop. If you’re in the mood for some dancing, head over to Club La Vela. This massive nightclub has multiple dance floors and a variety of DJs spinning everything from EDM to hip-hop.

No matter what kind of nightlife experience you’re looking for, Panama City Beach has something to offer. From beachside dive bars to trendy rooftop lounges, there’s no shortage of options for a night out on the town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated seafood restaurants in Panama City Beach?

Panama City Beach is known for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of highly rated seafood restaurants to choose from. Some of the top-rated options include Captain Anderson’s, Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill, and The Grand Marlin.

Where can I find fine dining options in Panama City Beach?

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Panama City Beach has several fine dining options to choose from. Some of the most highly rated include Firefly, The Terrace Restaurant, and Marina Cantina.

Which restaurants offer the best beachfront dining experience in Panama City Beach?

Panama City Beach is home to several restaurants that offer beautiful beachfront views while you dine. Some of the top-rated options include Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant, The Sandbar Seafood & BBQ Joint, and Pineapple Willy’s.

Can you recommend some 5-star dining establishments in Panama City Beach?

While there are no 5-star restaurants in Panama City Beach, there are several highly rated fine dining establishments that offer exceptional food and service. Some of the top-rated options include Firefly, The Terrace Restaurant, and Saltwater Grill.

Are there any historical restaurants in Panama City Beach that are still operating?

One of the oldest restaurants in Panama City Beach is Hunt’s Oyster Bar, which has been operating since 1952. Other historical restaurants that are still open include Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet, which has been serving up Southern-style cuisine since 1971, and Dat Cajun Place Cafe, which offers authentic Cajun food.

What local delicacies should I try when visiting Panama City Beach?

When in Panama City Beach, be sure to try some of the local seafood, such as grouper, oysters, and shrimp. Other local delicacies include smoked mullet, fried green tomatoes, and key lime pie.