Savor the Emerald Coast: The 48 Best Restaurants to Try
The Emerald Coast is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every palate. Whether you’re staying in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or along 30A, you’ll find everything from fresh Gulf seafood to upscale fine dining and laid-back beachside eateries. Here’s a guide to the 48 best restaurants on the Emerald Coast, featuring local favorites and must-visit spots that will make your trip unforgettable. 1. The Crab Trap (Destin) Located right on the beach in Destin, The Crab Trap is a family-friendly favorite known for its fresh seafood, Gulf views, and casual vibe. Try the crab legs or their famous smoked tuna dip. Where: Destin, FL More Info: Visit The Crab Trap Cost: $$ 2. Bijoux (Miramar Beach) For an upscale dining experience in Miramar Beach, Bijoux offers a blend of French and New Orleans-inspired cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant, and the menu features dishes like seared scallops and lobster tail. Where: Miramar Beach, FL More Info: Visit Bijoux Cost: $$$ 3. Great Southern Café (Seaside, 30A) Great Southern Café is a beloved spot on 30A, offering Southern classics with a twist. Their Grits à Ya Ya and blackened shrimp are crowd favorites, and the relaxed outdoor seating makes it perfect for families. Where: Seaside, FL (30A) More Info: Visit Great Southern Café Cost: $$ 4. Bud & Alley’s (Seaside, 30A) Another iconic 30A spot, Bud & Alley’s has been serving locals and visitors for over 30 years. With stunning Gulf views and a rooftop bar, this is the place for sunset cocktails and fresh seafood. Where: Seaside, FL (30A) More Info: Visit Bud & Alley’s Cost: $$ 5. The Bay (Santa Rosa Beach, 30A) Perched on the shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay, The Bay offers a casual atmosphere with an Asian-Southern fusion menu. Enjoy sushi, wood-fired pizzas, and Gulf-to-table seafood while watching the sunset. Where: Santa Rosa Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit The Bay Cost: $$ 6. McGuire’s Irish Pub (Destin) A Destin institution, McGuire’s Irish Pub is known for its lively atmosphere, hearty steaks, and house-brewed beer. It’s a great place for large groups looking for a fun night out. Where: Destin, FL More Info: Visit McGuire’s Irish Pub Cost: $$ 7. Emeril’s Coastal (Miramar Beach) Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse brings his signature style to the Emerald Coast with Emeril’s Coastal. Located in Miramar Beach, this restaurant specializes in Gulf seafood with a Creole twist. Where: Miramar Beach, FL More Info: Visit Emeril’s Coastal Cost: $$$ 8. Cuvee 30A (Inlet Beach, 30A) Cuvee 30A offers a fine dining experience on the eastern end of 30A. The menu features expertly crafted seafood, steaks, and a raw bar, along with an impressive wine list. Where: Inlet Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit Cuvee 30A Cost: $$$ 9. The Donut Hole (Santa Rosa Beach) For a more casual experience, The Donut Hole is a must for breakfast lovers. Known for its delicious donuts and hearty Southern breakfast plates, it’s the perfect start to a beach day. Where: Santa Rosa Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit The Donut Hole Cost: $ 10. Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House (Destin) Overlooking the Destin Harbor, Boshamps serves fresh Gulf seafood in a laid-back environment. With its waterfront location, it’s great for families and groups looking to enjoy a casual meal with a view. Where: Destin, FL More Info: Visit Boshamps Cost: $$ 11. Pompano Joe’s (Miramar Beach) Located directly on the beach, Pompano Joe’s is a go-to for fresh seafood and tropical drinks. Their coconut shrimp and fish tacos are not to be missed. Where: Miramar Beach, FL More Info: Visit Pompano Joe’s Cost: $$ 12. George’s at Alys Beach (30A) For a chic dining experience, George’s at Alys Beach offers a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients with coastal flair. The charming cottage setting adds to the restaurant’s relaxed vibe. Where: Alys Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit George’s at Alys Beach Cost: $$ 13. Vue on 30A (Santa Rosa Beach, 30A) Vue on 30A offers one of the best Gulf-front dining experiences along 30A. With stunning ocean views and a menu of fresh seafood and seasonal dishes, it’s a great spot for a romantic dinner or family celebration. Where: Santa Rosa Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit Vue on 30A Cost: $$ 14. Red Bar (Grayton Beach, 30A) An iconic spot in Grayton Beach, The Red Bar offers live music, a funky atmosphere, and a simple but delicious menu. The crab cakes and blackened grouper are always a hit. Where: Grayton Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit The Red Bar Cost: $$ 15. Chiringo (Grayton Beach, 30A) For a laid-back beach bar experience, head to Chiringo in Grayton Beach. Their beach-inspired menu features fresh, light bites like fish tacos and ceviche, perfect for a sunny day. Where: Grayton Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit Chiringo Cost: $$ 16. Café Thirty-A (Seagrove Beach, 30A) Café Thirty-A offers upscale dining with a casual coastal feel. Known for its extensive wine list and creative seafood dishes, it’s a favorite for special occasions. Where: Seagrove Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit Café Thirty-A Cost: $$$ 17. Stinky’s Fish Camp (Santa Rosa Beach, 30A) Don’t let the name fool you—Stinky’s Fish Camp is a local favorite for fresh seafood and a laid-back atmosphere. Their fried shrimp po’boy is a must-try. Where: Santa Rosa Beach, FL (30A) More Info: Visit Stinky’s Fish Camp Cost: $$ 18. The Surf Hut (Miramar Beach) For a true beachside dining experience, The Surf Hut in Miramar Beach offers fresh seafood and BBQ just steps from the sand. It’s the perfect spot for a family meal with unbeatable Gulf views. Where: Miramar Beach, FL More Info: Visit The Surf Hut Cost: $$ 19. AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar (Destin) A staple on the Destin Harbor, AJ’s is known for its fresh oysters, live music, and festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for seafood lovers looking to enjoy a fun night out. Where: Destin, FL More