Discover the top 5 restaurants in Miramar Beach, FL, from oceanfront seafood spots to cozy Italian kitchens and legendary wings.
From the Smoky Mountains to the shores of the Carolinas, there's something special about discovering a destination through its food. And on Florida's Emerald Coast, Miramar Beach doesn't disappoint. This lively coastal town serves up flavors as memorable as its sunsets, with a mix of casual gems and elevated local favorites.
Fresh seafood, smoky barbecue, and cozy Italian classics make this stretch of coastline a true crowd-pleaser. Curious what's in store? You're in the right place.
- Lillie's Q: Southern BBQ with a Twist
- Pedro's Cantina and Grill: Authentic Mexican Flavors
- Royal Palm Grille: Oceanfront Dining with Style
- Fat Clemenza's: Cozy Italian with Big Flavor
- Buffalo Jack's Legendary Wings & Pizza: Wings, Pizza, and Plenty of Heat
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. 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 a guide to fishing in the region to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I will bring you the top 5 restaurants in Miramar Beach that you will most definitely love.
Ready to dig in?
1. LILLIE'S Q
Southern BBQ with a Twist
Locals and visitors alike rave about the barbecue at Lillie's Q. You've got to try their pulled pork or baby back ribs, both served by the half-pound. The drink selection includes cocktails, wine, and a range of bottled and draft beers that pair perfectly with the menu. If you're not dining in, takeout and delivery options make it easy to enjoy Lillie's Q wherever you are.
Highlights:
- Pulled pork and baby back ribs
- Craft cocktails and beer selection
- Takeout and delivery available
What People Say:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Perfect BBQ place. Tried a little of everything and nothing disappointed us in the slightest. The owner is funny and shared cooking tips with us. Treated like family and walked away stuffed. Bypassed other BBQ places, and we are so happy we did. Would give more than 5 stars if possible!"
2. PEDRO'S CANTINA AND GRILL
Authentic Mexican Flavors
In the mood for Mexican? Pedro's Cantina and Grill delivers all your favorites, from flavor-packed quesadillas to sizzling fajitas. They offer lunch specials and, on select days, a breakfast menu featuring delicious options like their Breakfast Burritos, filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, onions, and tomatoes, and served with your choice of side.
Highlights:
- Classic Mexican dishes and fajitas
- Breakfast menu on select days
- Affordable lunch specials
What People Say:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Delicious food and great service! Glad we stopped in. I got the nachos loco with steak shrimp and chicken and my husband got the steak fajitas. All the meats were perfectly seasoned and cooked and the cheese dip was yummy!"
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3. Royal Palm Grille
Oceanfront Dining with Style
Located on the first floor of Surfside Resort, the Royal Palm Grille is a standout for steaks, fresh seafood, and an unbeatable beach view. Dine in the dining room, on the deck, or out on the patio. No matter where you sit, you'll enjoy sweeping coastal scenery. The restaurant is open to the public, so you don't have to be a resort guest to savor the experience.
Highlights:
- Beachfront views from every seat
- Steak and seafood menu
- Convenient location inside Surfside Resort
What People Say:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Very nice atmosphere, food was fantastic. We had the Angus burger and fries, the club wrap and fries, and the Florida Roll sushi and the Crab cakes appetizer. Everything was fast, fresh and hot. Will return and recommend!!"
4. FAT CLEMENZA'S
Cozy Italian with Big Flavor
Warm, welcoming, and family-friendly, Fat Clemenza's serves everything from soups and salads to hearty pasta and wood-fired pizzas. A house favorite is the Fettuccine Alfredo, topped with a creamy homemade sauce and optional chicken or shrimp. For dessert, don't miss their cannolis, filled with chocolate chips and pistachios.
Highlights:
- Homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Signature cannolis for dessert
What People Say:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Tried this place for the first time and we loved it! Some of the best Italian food we've ever had. The staff is wonderful & the food was exceptional. The calamari was delicious! Our kids had calzones that were as big as the table and we had pasta dishes. The porcini truffle ravioli in vodka sauce was to die for!"
5. Buffalo Jack's Legendary Wings & Pizza
Wings, Pizza, and Plenty of Heat
Buffalo Jack's lives up to its name with legendary wings and pizza. With 19 sauces ranging from Mild to Habanero Hot, there's something for every heat level. Pair your meal with a cold bottled or draft beer and settle in for a satisfying, casual dining experience.
Highlights:
- 19 wing sauces from mild to extra hot
- Signature pizzas
- Relaxed and casual vibe with beer options
What People Say:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"We came here on New Years Day after reading lots of reviews of the yummy food! We started out with fried pickles and mozzarella wedges both were delicious. My son said the pickle batter was a tad too salty but I enjoyed dipped in ranch. They were the perfect amount of crunch. Then we ordered pizza and wings. Everything was delicious!"
Frequently Asked Questions (Dining in Miramar Beach)
1. What's the best time to avoid crowds and long waits?
Many reviewers recommend arriving early, around 5 pm, to avoid peak lines, especially at busy spots like Buffalo Jack's and Fat Clemenza's.
2. Are there good family-friendly restaurants in Miramar Beach?
Yes. Fat Clemenza's is a go-to for its wood-fired pizzas and warm atmosphere. Pompano Joe's is also a favorite with families, offering Caribbean-style seafood and beachside views.
3. Where can I find beachfront dining in Miramar Beach?
Whale's Tail Beach Bar & Grill and The Surf Hut both offer ocean views and casual, laid-back vibes perfect for enjoying a drink and fresh seafood with your toes in the sand.
4. Are any restaurants ideal for a romantic dinner in Miramar Beach?
Try Bijoux for upscale Gulf seafood and fine wines or Seagar's Prime Steaks & Seafood for USDA Prime cuts and white-tablecloth service.
5. Looking for something bold or unique?
Commelfo Restaurant is known for extravagant presentations like 24K gold cheesecake. Zen Bistro serves creative sushi rolls with Gulf Coast flair.
6. Can I find reliable, affordable eats in Miramar Beach?
Absolutely. Buffalo Jack's gets high marks for its wings and pizzas at casual prices. Lillie's Q also offers takeout options that are budget-friendly and full of flavor.
7. Where can I find affordable Gulf seafood in Miramar Beach?
Try Pompano Joe's for beachfront views and budget-friendly seafood dishes, or head to Outcast Seafood for a laid-back, local experience with Gulf favorites that won't break the bank.
8. What about breakfast or brunch in Miramar Beach?
Mama Clemenza's is a brunch favorite with lemon curd pancakes and savory crepes. Bistrology Food & Coffee is another strong option for a stylish, modern breakfast with espresso-based drinks.
9. Are reservations necessary at Miramar Beach restaurants?
Reservations are recommended at upscale spots like Bijoux and Seagar's, especially during weekends and holidays. For casual places, walk-ins are typically fine, but arriving early helps avoid long waits. Try Pompano Joe's for beachfront views and budget-friendly seafood dishes, or head to Outcast Seafood for a laid-back, local experience with Gulf favorites that won't break the bank.
10. Any dining tips for visitors?
Reserve ahead for upscale restaurants. Dress codes are generally casual, even for oceanfront spots. And for the best experience, mix up your meals between beach bars, family pizzerias, and fine dining.
Emerald Coast: A Beachfront Haven Like No Other
With so much to explore, and endless natural beauty to experience the best Florida has to offer, the Emerald Coast will definitely fulfill your craving for a fun-filled vacation.
At RealJoy Vacations, we go the extra mile to make your Emerald Coast getaway truly extraordinary. Your accommodation should match the beauty and magic of this Florida treasure, and our goal is to provide a 5-star coastal living experience during your stay.