10 Top Eats in Destin, FL
The white sand beaches and luxury condos of Destin, FL, make it a popular vacation destination, but it’s also famous for its seafood. There are multiple restaurants in Destin that have earned awards for their fresh, locally-caught seafood dishes. Many of these restaurants sit directly on the beach. When you need to know where to eat in Destin, these eateries are sure to fit the need well.
1. Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House
414 Harbor Blvd, FL 32541
With an oceanfront view, and plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy it, Boshamps Seafood and Oyster Bar is at the top of the list of places to eat in Destin. This location often features live performers who play right on the beach, and the menu features southern-style gulf-to-table dishes. This merging of flavors brings you interesting dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes and Jumbo Lump Crab combined with a tasty bearnaise sauce. A full oyster bar features many different flavors of this beachside favorite.
2. The Back Porch
1740 Scenic Highway 98, FL 32541
The Back Porch is a casual, waterfront dining spot famous for their char-grilled Amberjack. In addition to this house favorite, this classic eatery has a cold oyster bar, smoked tuna, and crab claws. A small private beach and water views make dining here even more enjoyable. While popular, the restaurant has ample seating, and you’ll usually be able to find a spot if you stop in at lunchtime.
3. East Pass Seafood & Oyster House
56 Harbor Blvd, FL 32541
This local favorite provides a patio, bar, and restaurant, and all three have views of the water. One of the best features of this restaurant is its Hooks and Cooks option. You can catch a fish and bring it in for the chef to prepare it for your table exactly how you want it, with some of the restaurant’s sides. If you aren’t in the mood to catch your own dinner, enjoy the oyster bar, mahi mahi, or shrimp, among other dishes. The menu features locally caught seafood and locally grown produce for fresh flavors.
4. Bijoux
9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy Suite 22, Miramar Beach, FL 32550-7274
Bijoux is an upscale, white-cloth-table eatery in Destin serving seafood and traditional dishes in an elegant setting. It’s just a short drive from Destin in the Market Shops at Sandestin and provides a fine dining experience for a night out. If you’re ready for a break from seafood, the prime steaks here, paired with one of their wines, would make an excellent choice. With the ambiance of this restaurant, you won’t miss the beachfront views.
5. Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer
210 Harbor Blvd, FL 32541-2345
Not only does Brotula’s have excellent fish, but they’re particularly known for their broiled shellfish plates. The setting is rustic, which embraces the southern flavors of the dishes they serve. All of the seafood comes from local vendors, and the fresh flavors have earned it many “Best in Destin” awards, including awards for their gumbo and steamer plates. Like many Destin top restaurants, it has a waterfront view.
6. LuLu’s Destin
4607 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin, FL 32541
LuLu’s stands out among Destin Florida restaurants for its fun party vibe and its numerous allergen-friendly menu items. In fact, this restaurant has dedicated menus for most major allergens, and the chef will talk to your table if you have allergies to ensure safer dining. A private beach area, complete with food to toss to the fish, provides a place to play while you’re waiting for your food. Live music is common here. Everything’s made from scratch, including all sauces and dressings, and the restaurant serves both seafood and non-seafood items.
7. McGuire’s Irish Pub
33 East Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541
While much of the food in Destin is seafood, if you want a great steak, then consider dining at McGuire’s Irish Pub. Start your meal off with interesting flavors like Reuben Egg Rolls or Irish Potato Skins topped with smoked gouda, then dine on delectable steaks served with onion rings and fried tomatoes. Many nights at McGuire’s include live Irish music. Keep in mind that this Destin restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so you may want to arrive early to ensure you get a seat.
8. Beach Walk Cafe at Henderson Park Inn
2700 Scenic Highway 98, FL 32541-3413
For an elegant dining experience that still offers beach views, consider Beach Walk Café at Henderson Park Inn. Located inside the inn, this location has one of the best views among Destin restaurants. You can dine on the porch overlooking the water, or you can choose an indoor table near the fireplace. The food gets high marks for its freshness, and the building itself gets accolades for its ambiance and beauty. This location is considered by many as the best restaurant for a date night on the beach.
9. Pompano Joe’s in Destin
2237 Hwy 2378, Destin, FL 32550
If you’re in the mood for a burger, then head to Pompano Joe’s. This Destin restaurant features seafood as well as flavorful burgers, and with the beachfront view that the city is famous for. Many of the dishes feature the flavors of the Caribbean, and the colorful windows are always open to provide an open-air feel. Portions here are generous, so consider taking leftovers home to enjoy the next day.
10. Crackings
979 US-98, Destin, FL 32541
Rounding out our list of the best restaurants in Destin is Crackings. This breakfast and lunch spot gives breakfast a seafood flair. You’ll find southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and plenty of versions of eggs to eat here. The eatery’s Famous Lobster Gouda Grits are a local favorite, or if you’re in the mood for something sweet, consider the Cinnamon Roll or Sweet Bites.
Learn More About Destin from Our Partners at Holiday Isle Properties
As you’re planning your Destin vacation, or looking for a place to stay, check out the tips from Holiday Isle Properties, our trusted vacation rental partners. With luxury condos available and a local’s knowledge of the area, Holiday Isle Properties will help you make the most of your trip. View their available properties or reach more of the Destin vacation guides.
