Destin is packed with standout spots serving up the freshest Gulf seafood around. From cozy Italian cantinas to laid-back beach shacks, one thing's for sure: you're in for a seriously good meal.
From the Rocky Mountains to the shores of North Carolina and the Emerald Coast, one of the best parts of any vacation is diving into the local dining scene.
Thinking about the Emerald Coast for your next beach getaway? Great choice! A trip to Florida's Emerald Coast isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a treat for your taste buds too. With its deep coastal roots, the local food scene is bursting with flavor and fresh-off-the-boat seafood. And if you want to sample it all in one spot, start with Destin.
Here's a little taste of what's ahead:
- Pompano Joe's: Beachfront favorite with Caribbean-style Gulf seafood and great views.
- Louisiana Lagniappe: Creole-inspired seafood and steakhouse with marina views.
- Mimmo's Ristorante Italiano: Chic Sicilian spot serving handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza.
- Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House: Lively harborfront seafood joint with bars, live music, and kid-friendly space.
- Captain Dave's on the Gulf: Florida classic offering Gulf seafood and panoramic waterfront views.
- Harbor Docks: Local gem known for sushi, seafood, and a fresh fish market onsite.
- Jackacuda's Seafood & Sushi: Sushi, poke, and veggie-friendly options in HarborWalk Village.
- Red Onion Organic: Healthy Mediterranean cuisine with a cozy, plant-forward menu.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I'll bring you a carefully curated list of top restaurants in Destin, so you can soak up the beach vibes and enjoy some truly unique flavors.
Ready? Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure!
With two locations in Destin and Panama City Beach, Pompano Joe's is a beachside favorite serving fresh Gulf seafood with a splash of Caribbean flair. It's colorful, breezy, and right on the sand. The food is packed with flavor, the views are stunning, and the atmosphere is all about good times and good bites.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Two locations: Find them beachside in Destin and Panama City Beach.
- Menu favorites: Seafood Gumbo, Coconut Shrimp, Grouper Guadalupe.
- Sandwich wins: Grouper and mahi-mahi are local go-tos.
- Options for all: Vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly picks.
- Views + vibe: Picnic tables in the sand and open-air decks with Gulf views.
- Affordability: Tasty seafood that doesn't break the bank.
For more than 30 years, Louisiana Lagniappe has been a Destin favorite for fresh Gulf seafood with a Creole twist and perfectly grilled steaks. Tucked inside the Sandpiper Cove community, this spot is great for a cozy date night or a relaxed family dinner. The waterfront setting, delicious menu, and warm service keep both locals and visitors coming back.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Waterfront views of the marina with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Seafood favorites like Blackened Scallops, Bayou Grouper, and Twin Lobster Tails.
- Steakhouse classics including Filet Mignon, Ribeye, and Surf & Turf.
- Creole flavor in every bite with standout Shrimp and Grits.
- Family-friendly with a kids' menu featuring burgers, tenders, and popcorn shrimp.
- Insider tip: They don't take reservations, but you can call ahead to get on the list.
This stylish Sicilian bistro brings old-world charm to the Emerald Coast with recipes passed down through generations. From handcrafted pasta to wood-fired pizzas, every dish is full of flavor and tradition. With its chic interior and warm service, it's a spot that hits the sweet spot for both date nights and family dinners.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Tasty starters like Garlic Knots, Burrata Caprese, and Beef Carpaccio.
- Fresh salads with standouts like the Caesar and Tuna.
- Homemade pastas including Linguine Frutti di Mare, Lobster Carbonara, and Gnocchi Genova with pistachio cream and burrata.
- Wood-fired pizzas that rival the pasta in quality and taste.
- Italian wines and cocktails to round out your meal.
- Elegant ambiance with brick walls, marble bar, and leather seating.
Right on the Destin harbor, Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House is where locals go for great food, waterfront views, and an easygoing vibe. With two bars, outdoor seating, and live music, it's the kind of place where you can grab a cocktail, enjoy fresh seafood, and let the kids play on the sand while you unwind.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Harborfront views and a breezy open-air setting.
- Southern seafood favorites like Gulf Grouper and Oysters Rockefeller.
- Solid sandwich lineup and options for vegetarians and kids.
- Two full bars with a wide range of drink choices.
- Live music and sandy play area that keeps the whole family happy.
- Indoor and outdoor seating that both feel equally welcoming.
Captain Dave's is a Florida classic, serving fresh Gulf seafood since 1968. The restaurant is bright and breezy with floor-to-ceiling windows that make you feel like you're dining right on the shoreline. The food is all about American seafood favorites with a local twist, and the service is warm and welcoming.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Established favorite known for Gulf Coast seafood since 1968.
- Classic preparations: include fried, grilled, and broiled dishes.
- Ask for the daily special to catch something unexpected and delicious.
- Stunning views from the dining room thanks to giant waterfront windows.
- Full-service bar with a spacious lounge for pre-dinner cocktails or a nightcap.
- Friendly service that keeps both regulars and new visitors coming back.
6. HARBOR DOCKS
This local gem has been serving Destin for nearly 45 years and still feels like one of the coolest spots on the water. With deck seating, a sushi menu, and seafood straight from their own market downstairs, this place nails the fresh-and-flavorful vibe. The view of the harbor and the buzzing atmosphere seal the deal.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Harborfront location with breezy deck seating.
- Seafood market on-site means everything is extra fresh.
- Fried Seafood Platters served with hushpuppies, fries, and coleslaw.
- Asian-inspired menu with sushi, poke, sashimi, and a popular Pad Thai.
- Longtime local favorite with more than four decades of great service.
- Perfect for seafood and sushi lovers looking for variety and quality.
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HiGHLIGHTS
- Great location in HarborWalk Village with views of the marina.
- Veg-friendly sushi made with cucumber, avocado, and daikon sprouts.
- Poke bowls with the option to go fully vegetarian.
- Flavor-packed noodles like the Vegetarian Tofu Drunken Noodles.
- Refreshing drinks including watermelon mint and strawberry lemonade.
- Chill atmosphere with beachy decor and excellent service.
Red Onion Organic brings gourmet Mediterranean flavor to the Florida coast with a healthy, feel-good twist. This mom-and-pop spot serves up fresh, vibrant dishes made with care, from falafel and veggie sandwiches to well-curated wines and beers. It's cozy, welcoming, and all about slowing down and enjoying every bite.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Mediterranean flavors with a focus on fresh, plant-based ingredients.
- Popular picks include falafel plates and veggie sandwiches.
- Beach casual vibe in a warm and homey setting.
- Great drink selection with wines and craft beers to pair with your meal.
- Exceptional service that makes every visit feel personal.
- Perfect for slow meals with a relaxed pace and cozy atmosphere.
Wondering Where To Stay in Destin?
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!