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#EmeraldCoastDining

Savor the Emerald Coast: The 50 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 50 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

The Top 10 Restaurants in Destin, Florida You Must Try

Destin, Florida, known for its sugar-white sandy beaches and emerald-green waters, is also home to a thriving food scene that can satisfy any palate. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a lover of gourmet dining, this vibrant coastal city has something to offer everyone. If you’re vacationing in Destin, here are the top 10 restaurants you simply cannot miss. 1. Louisiana Lagniappe Nestled on the waterfront, Louisiana Lagniappe is a local favorite for its delicious blend of Creole cuisine and fresh Gulf seafood. The ambiance, with its sunset views and candlelit tables, makes it a perfect spot for romantic dinners or special occasions. Their stuffed shrimp and grouper almondine are among the most recommended dishes. Address: 775 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541 Website: louisianalagniappe.com Price Point: $$-$$$ Favorite Menu Items: Stuffed Shrimp, Grouper Almondine, Crawfish Etouffee 2. The Back Porch For over 40 years, The Back Porch has been a must-visit for seafood lovers in Destin. Located right on the beach, it offers a laid-back atmosphere with stunning Gulf views. Their chargrilled Amberjack and seafood gumbo are house favorites. Don’t miss the chance to grab a seat on the porch for a truly coastal dining experience. Address: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541 Website: theback-porch.com Price Point: $$-$$$ Favorite Menu Items: Chargrilled Amberjack, Seafood Gumbo, Tuna Dip 3. Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House Located on Destin Harbor, Boshamps boasts some of the freshest seafood in town. Their oysters, sourced directly from the Gulf, are served raw, baked, or fried, making it an oyster lover’s paradise. The restaurant offers a casual vibe but with upscale touches, making it ideal for both families and couples. Try the lobster mac and cheese—it’s unforgettable! Address: 414 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 Website: boshamps.com Price Point: $$-$$$ Favorite Menu Items: Oysters Bienville, Lobster Mac and Cheese, Fried Grouper 4. Marina Cafe For those craving a more refined dining experience, Marina Cafe delivers. With its elegant interior and waterfront views, it’s perfect for special nights out. Their sushi is fresh and beautifully presented, while the blackened redfish and filet mignon stand out among the main courses. Be sure to arrive early for happy hour and enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. Address: 404 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 Website: marinacafe.com Price Point: $$-$$$ Favorite Menu Items: Blackened Redfish, Filet Mignon, Sushi Rolls 5. McGuire’s Irish Pub McGuire’s Irish Pub is a quirky and fun dining experience. Famous for its gigantic portions and lively atmosphere, this Irish pub offers more than just the usual fare. Their steaks are legendary, and the 18-cent bean soup is an iconic starter. Make sure to take a stroll through the restaurant and notice the millions of dollar bills hanging from the ceiling! Address: 33 US-98, Destin, FL 32541 Website: mcguiresirishpub.com Price Point: $$ Favorite Menu Items: 18-Cent Bean Soup, McGuire’s Ribeye, Irish Boxtys 6. Harbor Docks Harbor Docks has been serving fresh Gulf-to-table seafood since 1979. This family-friendly restaurant also operates as a fish market, ensuring that everything you eat is incredibly fresh. The sushi is a standout, as is the daily catch, often served with Asian-inspired flavors. You can also enjoy stunning harbor views while dining on the outdoor patio. Address: 538 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 Website: harbordocks.com Price Point: $$-$$$ Favorite Menu Items: Daily Catch Specials, Sushi Rolls, Gulf Grouper Sandwich 7. AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar If you’re in the mood for great seafood and an energetic atmosphere, AJ’s is the place to be. This hotspot on the harbor offers live music, great drinks, and fresh seafood. The grilled Gulf fish tacos and fried shrimp baskets are always crowd pleasers. It’s an ideal spot to kick back, relax, and soak in the lively Destin nightlife. Address: 116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 Website: ajs-destin.com Price Point: $$ Favorite Menu Items: Grilled Gulf Fish Tacos, Shrimp Po’ Boy, Fried Shrimp Basket 8. The Crab Trap The Crab Trap is another beloved beachfront restaurant where you can indulge in seafood favorites while watching the waves. Known for its crab legs, shrimp baskets, and fish sandwiches, this family-friendly spot also has a fantastic kids’ menu, making it a hit with families looking to enjoy a meal after a day at the beach. Address: 3500 Scenic Hwy 98 E, Destin, FL 32541 Website: crabtrapdestin.com Price Point: $$ Favorite Menu Items: Crab Legs, Shrimp Basket, Grouper Sandwich 9. Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer Brotula’s takes pride in its unique seafood preparation—most dishes are steamed or boiled rather than fried. Specializing in shellfish, their steamer pots are perfect for groups looking to share a hearty, delicious meal. The harbor views add to the overall experience, making it a memorable dining spot. Address: 210 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 Website: brotulas.com Price Point: $$-$$$ Favorite Menu Items: Steamer Pots, Shrimp and Grits, Lobster Tails 10. Cuvee Kitchen + Wine Bar Cuvee Kitchen + Wine Bar offers a fine dining experience with an eclectic menu that blends seafood, steaks, and European-inspired dishes. The ambiance is chic, and the wine list is extensive, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy pairing their meal with a great glass of wine. The chef’s signature dishes, like the blackened grouper and pork chop, are divine. Address: 36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541 Website: cuveekitchen.com Price Point: $$-$$$ Favorite Menu Items: Blackened Grouper, Pork Chop, Shrimp Scampi Conclusion Whether you’re in the mood for fresh Gulf seafood, a casual beachfront bite, or an upscale dinner, Destin’s culinary scene has it all. These top 10 restaurants each bring something unique to the table, ensuring that your dining experience will be just as memorable as your time on the beach. If you’re looking for the perfect beach vacation home while visiting Destin, check out the beautiful options at Legacy Beach Homes, where you can enjoy luxurious, beachfront living with easy access to these fantastic dining spots. Hashtags: #DestinRestaurants #DestinFoodie #EmeraldCoastDining #DestinSeafood #BeachDiningDestin #FloridaRestaurants #FoodLoversDestin #BestRestaurantsDestin #GulfCoastEats #VisitDestin #DestinVacation #LegacyBeachHomes #ExploreDestin #DestinTop10Restaurants