The Best Places to Eat in Destin, FL

1. Chef Tim Creehan’s Beach Walk Restaurant
   2700 Scenic Highway 98 East
   Destin, FL 32541
   (850) 650-7100
2. McGuire’s Irish Pub and Brewery
   33 Hwy 98 East
   Destin, FL 32541
   (850) 650-0000
   (850) 654-0567
3. Fat Clemenza’s
   Holiday Plaza
   12273 US Highway 98
   Destin, FL 32550
   (850) 650-5980
4. Marina Cafe
   404 Harbor Boulevard
   Destin, FL 32541
   (850) 837-7960
5. Boathouse Oyster Bar
   228-B Harbor Blvd East
   Destin, FL 32541
   (850) 837-3645
6. La Paz Restaurante & Cantina
   950 Gulf Shore Drive
   Destin, FL 32541
   (850) 837-2247

7. Pompano Joe’s Seafood House
   2237 Scenic Gulf Highway
   Destin, FL 32550
   (850) 837-2224

8. Lillie’s on Pig Alley
   9848 Hwy. 98 West
   Destin, FL 32550
   (850) 654-3911
9. Royal Orchid Thai Restaurant
   11275 Emerald Coast Pkwy
   Destin, FL 32541
   (850) 650-2555
10. Kenny D’s Beach Bar & Grill
    2964 Scenic Gulf Drive
    Destin, FL 32550 (Miramar Beach)
    (850) 650-0755 or (850) 585-7720

If you’ve eaten at any of these restaurants in Destin, Florida then let us know what you thought by using the comment section below. If you know of a good place to eat in Destin, FL that belongs on this list then be sure to let everyone know as well!

Also, be sure to check out our list of the best Destin coupons to save money on dining and many other things in to do in Destin, Florida. Our list of the best hotels in Destin will give you plenty of options for places to stay. Finally, check out our list of the best things to do in Destin, FL to have the best time during your vacation to Destin!

The Best Places to Eat in Destin, FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

Geared towards good food and good friends, this local hangout is able to attract many guests from all over the world and is among the best restaurants in Destin, FL! The owners are very active in the community and able to mix and mingle with the guests, giving it a friendly, relaxed feel.

The weekends at Kenny D’s Beach Bar & Grill usually offer live music,dancing and gathering on the outdoor patio. This entertainment can range from a karaoke night to a local band. They also offer appetizers and beer on tap, that creates a lively and fun place to be.
Focusing on Cajun food and seafood, the menu is extensive. Fried seafood and oysters are always a big seller here. The prices are affordable, and the food is said to be some of the best in town.

Kenny D’s Beach Bar & Grill also offers catering for special events and parties. Handling parties of 15 all the way up to 1,500! That’s a lot of food!

If you’re looking for a down-home good time while in Destin, FL you absolutely have to try Kenny D’s Beach Bar & Grill. This place will offer you great food, amazing service and one of a kind sunsets, that’s good enough for us!

Kenny D’s Beach Bar & Grill in Destin, FL
2964 Scenic Gulf Drive
Miramar Beach,FL32550
ph:850-650-0755
http://www.kennyds.com

If you’ve eaten at Kenny D’s Beach Bar & Grill in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

Kenny D’s Beach Bar & Grill, Destin FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

International visitors flock to this one of a kind eatery, which has been offering guests noodles, appetizers and seafood made in authentic Thai style for years. The herbs and sauces used here are used in Thai restaurants in Thailand and the Philippines. Also offering a large selection of teas and authentic beverages, native to Thailand.

The atmosphere is a classic Thailand feel, with low eastern style booths and lighting. While the plants and water features of this fantastic eatery bring out the Asian vibe and feel of the building. This eatery has also been known to host weddings, bridal showers and other special events.

Meals are made fresh, when you order them, this means it may take longer to get your food. And the results will be incredible. This high-end restaurant also chooses to forgo any MSG or other harmful preservatives.

Offering reservations as well as walk in tables, this authentic restaurant has been a Destin favorite for years. Offering specials and packages catered to groups and events. Speaking to the management is the best way to find out prices and availability, for these events.

Entice your taste buds the next time you vacation in Destin, FL. Come in and try out this one of a kind Asian delight and you are sure to be back again!

Royal Orchid Thai Restaurant in Destin, FL
11275 Emerald Coast PRKWY
Destin, FL
850 650 2555
http://royalorchidthaicuisine.com

If you’ve eaten at Royal Orchid Thai Restaurant in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

Royal Orchid Thai Restaurant in Destin, FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

Lillie’s on Pig Alley offers a menu specializing in all things American BBQ, giving you things such as steaks, ribs, beef and BBQ chicken – the staple of this trendy restaurant. Lunch is also served here, with sandwiches and sides available all day long.
The thing that makes this Destin BBQ restaurant special, is that they bring in the visitors with special offerings. By creating special events to create a community feeling rather than just a place to come and eat. On a regular basis they will hold a pig roasting, inviting the community and tourists alike to come and join in on the fun.

They will also cater your special event, or party, bringing the taste of the grill to you, just how you like it. Located in the scenic town of Destin, FL this unique eatery is able to attract guests from all over the world.

Don’t miss out on this hidden treasure, the next time you vacation in Destin FL be sure to try the freshly grilled food provided by Lillie’s on Pig Alley. You wont be disappointed.

Lillie’s on Pig Alley, Destin FL
9848 HWY 98 W
Destin, FL
850 654 3911
http://www.lilliesq.com/LPA_HOME.html

If you’ve eaten at Lillie’s on Pig Alley in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

Lillie’s on Pig Alley, Destin FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

Offering classic seafood and original recipes, this seaside eatery is the perfect place for a quick lunch or a romantic evening. The menu consists of Caribbean fair, such as Reggae rolls and Garlic crusted Grouper. As well as the classic seafood of the Destin Beach area. Never forgetting that sometimes, fries and a coke are the prefect beach side snack, Pompano Joe’s offers a snack shack filled with modern day favorites.

Pompano Joe’s in Destin also loves to provide entertainment and events for the local people, and vacationers alike. Some of these events include a shrimp boil and live music. These events bring the community together through food and entertainment.
The drinks at Pompano Joe’s Seafood House are fruity, cool and Caribbean like. You can get cold Pina Coladas, or margaritas complete with the seaside view. The bright colors of the windows, and trim create a homey feeling, while the weathered wood siding and rails make you feel as if this place has been here forever.

As a Destin restaurant this seafood house has hit the “must see” list of Destin, it has become a local attraction in its own right!
No visit to the Destin Beach area is complete without a visit to Pompano Joe’s Seafood House. Where the food is hot, the drinks are cold and the beach is pure white sand, what more could you want?

Pompano Joe’s Seafood House in Destin, FL
Destin, Florida Location
2237 Scenic Gulf Highway
Destin, Florida 32550
850 837 2224
http://www.pompano-joes.com

If you’ve eaten at Pompano Joe’s Seafood House in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

Pompano Joe’s Seafood House in Destin, FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

The food available at La Paz Restaurant, is second to none. The eclectic menu offers original Tex Mex food as well as other options such as fresh fish and seafood. The extensive menu also offers American favorites such as cheeseburgers and fries, for those who want the atmosphere of a Tex Mex without the food. The drinks are fun and fruity, and you can be sure the margaritas are are always made to perfection!

The atmosphere of La Paz restaurant & Catalina is a cool Latin vibe, mixed with modern day amenities. With no over the top Mexican paraphernalia, which so many southern themed restaurants have. At this Destin hot spot, you will only find hand painted murals and treasures from South America. While visiting you can also enjoy an open air patio that allows you to sit outside and breathe in the Gulf air, while enjoying your meal.

La Paz also offers catering to private functions and parties. This can be done both at the restaurant and at your private location. And that’s not all, La Paz also offers home delivery! So you can enjoy the goodness of La Paz even if you don’t have time to go out.

The Paz Restaurant & Catalina in Destin, FL is a restaurant that caters to all types of cravings. Your craving for great Mexican food and flavour, as well as your need to gather with friends and family in a upbeat, exotic atmosphere. And the best thing is you have have to go to Mexico to get it, its all right here in your own backyard.

La Paz Restaurant & Catalina in Destin, FL
Destin, FL
950 Gulf Shore Drive
850-837-2247
http://www.lapaz.com/

If you’ve eaten at La Paz Restaurant & Catalina in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

La Paz Restaurante & Cantina in Destin, FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

When you first walk in to McGuire’s, one of the first things you will notice are the many dollar bills hanging from the ceilings and some of the walls. When McGuire and Molly first opened their pub and brewery, Molly took her first tip and tacked it to the back bar for good luck. Her idea caught on and has become a huge tradition at McGuire’s. Customers are welcome to add their own dollar bills with a personal note to the collection. The staff will gladly provide you with a sharpie and a stapler. There are, in fact, thousands of those famed dollar bills hanging throughout this pub!

The restaurant in Destin, Florida is quite huge with 20,000 square feet of themed dining rooms, 400 seats and around 200 friendly staff. Even at this size, there are times that you may have to wait a while for a seat at the very popular locale. They even offer live Irish style entertainment for guests in the later evening hours.

At McGuire’s you can find quite a variety of Irish dishes, right along with many American favorites. The menu is expansive, so you’re sure to find something for everyone in your party. Be forewarned that you will be served very generous portions. Unless your appetite is really big, plan on sharing your meal with someone or taking the extras with you.

If it’s Irish food in Destin, FL you’re seeking, you might try the delicious Shepherd’s Pie or Corned Beef and Cabbage. They also serve Irish Lamb Stew, Irish Steak and Mushroom Pie and many other choices.

For those whose tastes lean more toward delicious beef, McGuire’s cooks up a tantalizing steak and enormous gourmet steak burgers. The steaks have been voted “Best of the Gulf Coast”. They serve U.S.D.A. Certified Prime Steaks, which is not very common. Only about 5% of all Beef in the United States is good enough to be graded as Prime. Their steaks are never frozen and are hand cut daily. You won’t find this beef in your local grocery stores.

Their popular hand made burgers are 3/4 pound of lean beef with their own blend of seasonings. And these are not your typical hamburgers, they are actually Black Angus Steak burgers. McGuire’s custom grinds their steak trimming to create these excellent burgers. And you get to choose your own gourmet toppings. You can top them with everything from blue cheese, sauteed vidalia onions, wasabi or fiery jalapenos, to something as crazy as pizza flavors or Skippy peanut butter. With more than 25 choices, they have a burger for all tastes!

The most amazing burger on the menu would have to be The Grand Burger. This elegant burger is made from custom ground Filet Mignon! It is then char-grilled and served with…. a side order of Cavier! And to wash down this filet burger, nothing would be appropriate than your own bottle of Moet & Chandon White Star Champagne. Sound like something you might want to try? For the hefty price tag of $100 McGuire’s will be more than happy to serve you The Grand Burger meal. And surprisingly, they do serve quite a few of these.

Some other menu items that deserve mention are the fall-off-the-bone tender barbecued ribs, corned beef sandwiches, delicious seafood platters, the Irish Fisherman’s Bouillabaisse (stew) and their brunch with fancy omelets or eggs Benedict.

As the name implies, McGuire’s has its very own brewery where they create their famous beers. They use only the finest malted barley hops and yeast from the British Isles. And they’re very proud of the fact that they do not use any chemicals or additives in their brews. Their menu states, ‚”This is a brewery, not a beer factory,” a fact they are very proud of. They brew their own Root Beer too.

McGuire’s Irish Pub is a very hopping place for the night crowd. They open at 11 am for lunch and stay open until the wee hours of the morning. Though it’s fine for older kids during the day, evenings are more suitable for the grown-up crowd.

If the weather is nice, try to get a seat on the huge covered deck on top of the building. It offers a great view and is set up for dining. There’s so much more to experience at McGuire’s Irish Pub and Brewery in Destin. We can’t tell you all of it here, so you just need to go experience it for yourself!

Oh yeah…. something you really need to know before you go. Be sure to read the restroom door signs very carefully. You don’t want to end up in the wrong place!

McGuire’s Irish Pub and Brewery
33 Hwy 98 East
Destin, FL 32541

(850) 650-0000
(850) 654-0567

http://www.mcguiresirishpub.com

If you’ve eaten at the McGuire’s Irish Pub and Brewery in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

McGuire’s Irish Pub and Brewery in Destin, FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

Due to the unassuming location of Fat Clemenza’s, it is often quite a surprise for guests to learn that this restaurant is so fabulous. It’s tucked away in the Holiday Plaza strip mall on Highway 98 close to the Silver Sands Outlet Mall and one mile east of the Bass Pro Shop.

The Pizzas are very popular here and guests who try them are in for a real treat. These authentic Italian pies are compared to the best pizzas of Italy. Fat C’s is said to have the “Best Pizza This Side of Naples.” Those guests who have experienced the truly authentic Italian pizzas in Italy are very impressed. That may have a lot to do with the fact that the chef is from Naples! The staff is extremely nice and the owner often walks through the dining area visiting with the guests.

The dough for the pizza and calzones are made and hand tossed by their pizza maker from Italy. The sauces are also freshly made. Pizzas are fired in a wood burning brick oven at 900 degrees. These thin crust pies are absolutely delicious and leave you wanting more.

Fat Clemenza’s is not just a pizza restaurant, they also have a great menu with authentic Italian dishes. Start with appetizers such as bruschetta, calamari or Mimmo’s Homemade Garlic Rolls. You might also try their delicious soup of the day or the fresh House Salad.

The Fettuccine Alfredo and Lasagna are fabulous. Guests also like to order Ravioli or the Pasta Carbonara with Pancetta. Pick your own sauce from their choices of Alfredo, Marinara, Bolognese or their specialty, Vodka sauce. The wood-fired Calzones are very popular and come in four styles.

And, of course, the very tasty dessert menu includes some Italian favorites. They offer Cannoli, Tiramisu, Panna Cotta, Spumoni and Homemade Cheesecake. They are all so good, it’s really hard to choose.

Even thought the menu at Fat Clemenza’s does not change often, the owners like to spice things up a bit with their daily specials. Regular customers look forward to trying out the new dishes to see what they come up with next. When you walk in the door, you will always find the blackboard, which will list the daily specials along with the soup of the day.

Many people are interested in the name of this restaurant and how it came to be. Fat Clemenza is the nickname of the Pete Clemenza character in the popular movie, The Godfather.

Everyone will feel right at home at Fat C’s. Bring your friends and family to eat at this casual Italian restaurant. You will want to stop by Fat C’s early on during your trip to Destin, FL because you will probably find yourself making time for a second or third meal at this wonderful restaurant.

Fat Clemenza’s
Holiday Plaza
12273 US Highway 98
Destin, FL 32550
(850) 650-5980
http://www.fatclemenzas.com

If you’ve eaten at the Fat Clemenza’s in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

Fat Clemenza’s Italian Restaurant in Destin, FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

Very popular among the diners of Marina Cafe in Destin is the buy one, get one free special from 5 to 6 pm daily. Guests order from the regular menu and all meals except the steaks are included. As the prices match the upscale atmosphere and food, this early dining option is great for those wanting to enjoy a fine restaurant in Destin at a more reasonable price. Be sure to check before you go to make sure they are still offering this great value.

The first section guests see on the menu will be Small Plates. For those of you not familiar with Small Plates, they can serve several purposes. First of all, they make wonderful appetizers to begin your dining experience. Those who prefer a light meal may order a Small Plate accompanied by a salad or other side. And lastly, diners who like to try a little of everything can order two or three Small Plates for their meal. Larger parties may choose quite a variety of items from the Small Plates menu and share them. Some of the choices are Ahi Tuna Tartar Tower, Grilled Portabello Mushrooms, Gulf Shrimp and Lump Crab Spring Rolls or Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops. Small Plates tend to add new options to spiff up a menu.

Delectable salads range from the Mediterranean Salad with kalamata olives and feta cheese to the “Ugly” Heirloom Beefsteak Tomatoes on a bed of arugula with grilled sweet onions and Asiago cheese.

The specialties such as Pan Seared Yellow Grouper, Maine Diver Scallops, Seared Duck Breast and Ginger-Scallion Crusted Norwegian Salmon are very inviting. The Pan Seared Andouille Crusted Redfish is absolutely magnificent. They also offer Lamb, Pork Rib Chops, Filet Medallions and Prime Rib Steaks, along with pizzas and pasta. The entrees come with a vegetable side, but additional options are available from their menu. Steamed Asparagus, Braised Garlic Spinach, and Roasted Fingerling Potatoes are among the choices.

Marina Cafe offers a list of sumptuous desserts. Among the favorites are the Grand Marnier Cheesecake, Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee and Rum Raisin Bread Pudding Souffle. Be sure to save some room for one of these delicious creations, or at the very least share one with someone else in your party.

Marina Cafe is an excellent choice of dining in Destin, Florida for a quiet romantic evening with a beautiful view of the sunset. It is also very appropriate for a pleasant dinner among friends. Dress resort casual is recommended, so just wear something nice. You’ll also want to call ahead for reservations.

Marina Cafe
404 Harbor Boulevard
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 837-7960
www.marinacafe.com

If you’ve eaten at the Marina Cafe in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

Marina Cafe in Destin, FL is a post from: Inside Destin Florida

Awesome dive, great oysters and seafood, best hang out spot in Destin, great view, and the best crab and seafood gumbo around are just some of the phrases you will hear to describe the Boathouse Oyster Bar.

Wanda “Mamma Gumbo” Green and Paul “Action” Jackson took over this business in1986 as a small detached building behind the boathouse. Since then, they have added the Boathouse and doubled in size. Even now, this location on a dock in the Destin Harbor is still not a very large establishment. The Boathouse has an extremely comfortable and laid back atmosphere. No one here tries to impress, so come as you are and just be yourself. It is a very simple wood structure and you can even see outside through the walls in some places.

The menu is very simple but delicious. For starters you can choose between shrimp steamed in beer, delicious smoked tuna dip, nachos or their famous Cajun boiled peanuts. A cup or bowl of their award winning crab and seafood gumbo also makes a great beginning to your meal.

Sandwiches, all served on onion rolls, include cheeseburgers, tuna steak, grilled crab cake, mesquite chicken, bbq pork or the fantastic grilled grouper. They even have grilled cheese and hotdogs. The sides are very simple and include potato chips, corn on the cob and cole slaw.

Oysters are one of their specialties and they only serve Appalachacola Oysters when possible. Order your oysters raw, steamed or baked. The Baked Oysters come in two styles. First is the Baked Action variety that comes covered in butter, bacon bits, onions and mozzarella cheese. The second style is the spicier Baked SOB. These are smothered in cheddar cheese and jalapenos and accompanied by cocktail sauce and nacho chips. If you can’t decide between the two, no worries. Just order the Baked Half & Half to get a taste of both styles.

In addition, dinner meals are offered that include the Crawfish Platter. They only serve crawfish fresh from New Orleans. Other choices are Beer Steamed Shrimp, Grilled Grouper, Snow Crab and Steamed Vegetables. They have several choices of ice cold bottled or draft beer, along with wine by the glass, ½ carafe or full carafe.

It’s not a great place for the kids, but if you have to bring them in order to try the great food, be sure to come early. After eight nightly, the live music starts up and things get rolling. It’s pretty simple here. Don’t dress up. T-shirts and flip-flops are fine. The walls in this old building are covered in dollar bills with customers’ names and messages, blow-up dolls and even ladies’ unmentionables. So don’t bring anyone with you who may take offense. The Boathouse Oyster Bar is loved by locals and visitors who are lucky enough to find out about “the best kept secret in Destin, FL!”

Boathouse Oyster Bar
228-B Harbor Blvd East
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 837-3645
http://www.boathouseoysterbar.com

If you’ve eaten at the Boathouse Oyster Bar in Destin, Florida be sure to let everyone know what you thought by using the comment form below. To see other great restaurants in Destin, FL check out our list of the best places to eat in Destin, FL.

Boathouse Oyster Bar is a post from: Inside Destin Florida