Many things set Destin apart from other Florida beach destinations. The coastline and water sports are excellent, but they play second fiddle to the real headliner. As home to the largest arsenal of fishing boats in Florida, Destin is all about the seafood.
Come along as we dive into the best restaurants in Destin!
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Seafood – Best Restaurants in Destin, FL
1. The Back Porch
1740 Scenic Hwy 98 in Destin / 850-837-2022$$What to Eat: Amberjack Sandwich
Why Eat Here: The Back Porch specializes in grilled seafood dishes you won’t want to pass up. Though the food here is tasty, the ambiance and gulf views at this establishment are what make the experience. We loved relaxing in this restaurant while enjoying the amazing ocean views.
The indoor decor is very similar to that of a boathouse. Visitors are surrounded by wood. The furniture, walls, and even flooring emanate the natural warmth and comfort that wood brings. There’s a long porch on the second level where patrons can enjoy their meal and beach views at the same time.
Delicious food in Destin doesn’t get better than the Amberjack Sandwich served here. The fish can be fried, chargrilled, bronzed, or blackened upon the customer’s request.
It’s a delectable dish but be prepared for the $20.50 price tag. This rate may be too hefty of a price for a sandwich for some patrons.
The Back Porch is one of the busiest restaurants in Destin, FL, so if you find yourself waiting for a table, kill some time in the gift shop. Funny enough, it’s one of the best spots to find unique and fun Destin souvenirs to bring home to your loved ones.
2. Crab Trap Destin
3500 Scenic Hwy 98 E in Destin / 850-654-2722$$What to Eat: Crab Dip
Why Eat Here: Crab Trap Destin is one of the best seafood restaurants in Destin, Florida. It’s located near James Lee Park, a beautiful part of town. Like the Back Porch, Crab Trap stays busy and buzzing most of the time.
We ate here after spending the afternoon at the beach. We just had to put our beach gear in the car before heading to dinner. It was so convenient and such a great place for dinner.
If you run into a wait, the restaurant has a great outdoor bar and nearby beach access to keep your party occupied while you wait for a table. My kids had a great time playing on the playground at the beach while we waited for our food. It’s a wonderful place to dine when visiting Destin with kids.
Hailed as the best place in Destin for crab, it’s no surprise their crab dip and crab cakes top the list of favorite menu items. They also make a mean cocktail, which can be refreshing on a warm Florida day.
The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with gorgeous Gulf views. Though the food is good, some believe the menu runs a little expensive for the quality of the dishes. Remember that restaurants with prime locations along the beach may have pricer menus than those further inland.
3. Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer
210D Harbor Blvd in Destin / 850-460-8900$$What to Eat: Gumbo, Shrimp & Grits
Why Eat Here: Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer is one of the best restaurants in Destin, FL, when it comes to customer service. The wait staff is exceptional, warm, and friendly. Food aside, you’ll leave this eatery happy.
The indoor dining area here is spacious and welcoming, with an impressive bar and pub-style touches. The outdoor seating is comfortable on a shaded deck area, spruced up with dangling strings of lights.
Brotula’s serves an award-winning gumbo. If you’ve been dreaming about this dish, this is an excellent place to crush your craving. Shrimp & Grits and roasted brussel sprouts wrap up the highest recommended items at this spot.
4. Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi
36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy in Destin / 850-460-2909$$ What to Eat: Shrimp Ramen, French Fry Board
Why Eat Here: If you want to indulge in spectacular sushi, head to Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi. It’s one of the top restaurants in Destin, FL, for sushi and an overall healthy menu.
The restaurant is clean and modern but not stuffy. Guests can sit indoors among booths and tables in the spacious dining area. Their outside deck is quaint but only offers limited streetside seating.
The seafood here is both Southern and Asian-inspired. Nothing brings the two influences together like the must-try Shrimp Ramen Bowl.
Specialty rolls and dumplings are the heart of the menu at Jackacuda’s. But guests can also enjoy a wide array of different types of fries, which you don’t often see at a sushi restaurant. The selection of local beer at the bar here is also a favorite among customers.
Jackacuda’s is one of the best places to eat in Destin, Florida, if you want a laid-back atmosphere. They also offer curbside pick-up, so if you’re not up to braving the restaurant scene, skip the fast food and order from Jackacuda’s!
5. East Pass Seafood & Oyster House
56 Harbor Blvd in Destin / 850-424-3507$$-$$$What to Eat: Grouper
Why Eat Here: East Pass Seafood & Oyster House is one of the tastiest Destin restaurants in the HarborWalk Village Shopping Center. This family-style seafood house prides itself on serving only fresh local seafood, often with a cajun or creole twist!
If you love seafood, you’re bound to love East Pass. Oysters, grouper, redfish, salmon, dynamite shrimp, the list goes on and on. Don’t sleep on their craft cocktails, frozen daiquiris, and margaritas!
The restaurant has a casual beach shack atmosphere with a flare of upscale sophistication. The indoor dining area is homey, clean, and sleek. The outdoor deck seating is cozy with harbor views, making it a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy an evening meal.
Before visiting, be aware that this location (as well as many other Destin, FL restaurants) charges a 2.5% resort fee and a 20% service fee. The 20% fee is not an enforced tip, so if you wish to tip your server, it would be in addition to the other costs.
6. Louisiana Lagniappe
775 Gulf Shore Dr in Destin / 850-837-0881$$$What to Eat: Lagniappe Seafood Platter, Barbeque Jumbo Shrimp
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Why Eat Here: Vacations are a great time to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Louisiana Lagniappe is one of the best restaurants in Destin, Florida, serving creole-inspired food.
This restaurant is a fantastic spot for fine dining. Indoor seating features large tables draped in white linen tablecloths, fine cutlery, and crystal glasses. The outdoor deck seating is just as luxurious and offers marina views. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for a fancy night out on the town.
The dishes served here feature only the best fresh Gulf seafood. Grouper, lobster, shrimp, snapper, and so much more fill the menu at this impressive establishment.
Considered one of the best restaurants in Destin, Florida, this spot is typically bustling. Guests can enjoy the place’s ambiance and order a drink from the expansive bar while waiting for a table.
7. Beach Walk Cafe
2700 Scenic Hwy 98 in Destin / 850-650-7100$$$$What to Eat: Grilled Corn and Asparagus Risotto
Why Eat Here: Beach Walk Cafe is the perfect place for a romantic getaway for a meal in Destin. Located at Henderson Park Inn, this restaurant offers a magical and dreamy coastal setting for dinner away from it all.
Everything about this spot feels peaceful and private. Located on the beach, you can enjoy Gulf of Mexico views from the quaint indoor seating at ornate tables. Outdoor upper deck seating and lower seating on a cobblestone patio all offer an awe-inspiring experience with sunset views to die for.
As with all excellent restaurants in Destin, FL, seafood is, of course, on the menu, but risotto, fried chicken, and delectable steaks are also available to order for those looking past the shrimp scampi and snapper.
Considered one of the most romantic restaurants in North America, you won’t want to miss Beach Walk Cafe. Cap off the night with a special park experience, as there are so many things to do in Henderson Beach State Park.
8. Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House
414 Harbor Blvd in Destin / 850-424-7406$$$What to Eat: Corn & Crab Chowder, Oyster Bar
Why Eat Here: Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House is one of the most popular restaurants in Destin, FL, on the beach, but it’s so much more than that. More than any other spot on our list, this place is a true staple of the community.
The fresh southern-style seafood and Angus steaks served at this beautiful Destin Harbor establishment will light up guests’ taste buds and bring people together, all in the same bite. For lighter fare, they also feature some mouthwatering salads with a cajun kick, like the Hot Louisiana Crawfish Salad!
Stellar ocean views, two full bars, and live music on their beachside stage only enhance the casual and comfortable setting. Come check out the party at Boshamps!
9. Sarah K’s Gourmet
34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy #183 in Destin / 850-269-0044$$What to Eat: Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes
Why Eat Here: Sarah K’s Gourmet is an excellent place for a pick-up dinner in Destin. If you’d rather take food back to the beach or enjoy it from the comfort of your Destin hotel on the beach or rental but don’t want to skimp on quality, this is the spot for you.
The Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes from Sarah K’s are famous in these parts. At half a pound, the portion is generous and so delicious.
Voted one of Destin’s best restaurants for 17 years, you can trust that this spot will deliver an exceptional meal, even if it is to-go.
Best Restaurants in Destin on the Water
10. Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant
9 Calhoun Ave in Destin / 850-837-7575$$What to Eat: Seafood Baskets
Why Eat Here: Don’t judge a book by its cover. We were all taught this age-old adage as kids, and it never rings more true than when it comes to Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant. Most people wouldn’t rush to order from a meal shack with a chalkboard sign menu, but they’d be missing out.
Dewey’s might not be much to look at, but it holds great significance when it comes to the history of Destin. Dewey, for whom the restaurant is named, is Captain Leonard Destin’s great-great-grandson, who founded the village in the mid-1800s.
The traditions that the captain lived by are still followed at this eatery today, as they only serve fresh fish and sustainable seafood. Patrons can enjoy the sea air and views of Crab Island on picnic tables as they devour seafood baskets (available grilled or fried) with fries.
11. Captain Dave’s On the Gulf
3796 Scenic Hwy 98 in Destin / 850-837-2627$$What to Eat: Stuffed Parmesan Shrimp & Lobster Tail
Why Eat Here: Captain Dave’s On the Gulf strikes the perfect balance of comfort and elegance and creates the ideal Destin restaurant atmosphere.
Truly as close to dining on the beach as possible while still indoors, massive floor-to-ceiling windows feature glorious gulf views so close customers can spot what beachgoers are having for lunch too!
This tasty spot specializes in American seafood entrees with a Gulf Coast twist. Fresh seafood is delivered daily. Mahi Parmesan and Stuffed Shrimp Parmesan are the most raved-about dishes on the menu.
The eatery also boasts a full-service bar and expansive lounge specializing in top-shelf margaritas and out-of-this-world martinis.
You can bring your boogie boards and beach chairs in the car and head out to the beach after lunch or dinner.
12. Harry T’s
46 Harbor Blvd in Destin / 850-654-4800$$What to Eat: Brunch
Why Eat Here: Harry T’s is named after trapeze artist Harrison Baben. He was known as Flying Harry T. during his heyday. The spacious seaside restaurant plays homage to Harry through unique circus memorabilia throughout the space.
Indoor seating is similar to what you might find in a pub. There are tall stools along long tables, each within viewing distance of one of many massive flat-screen TVs. As you might imagine, this is a hot spot for game night viewings.
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The outdoor dining space offers a striking lighthouse and sea view, not to mention dolphin visitors from time to time too!
Try to hit this restaurant during brunch. The Crab Cakes Eggs Benedict and the Bushwacker’s French Toast can’t be beaten. The dishes offer a meal to remember. And to top it all off, they will send you off with a complimentary homemade cinnamon roll that is known to change lives!
13. Marina Cafe
404 Harbor Blvd in Destin / 850-837-7960$$$What to Eat: Pan Seared Andouille Crusted Louisiana Redfish, Filet Mignon
Why Eat Here: Marina Cafe is Destin’s most awarded restaurant. It’s the epitome of fine dining. Classy to the max, the perfectly laid tables with fancy flatware are softened with the added romantic touch of candlelight.
The ambiance sets the bar high, but the food is just as impressive. Marina Cafe is a steakhouse as much as a seafood joint. Customers can’t get enough of the Filet Mignon Wontons and the Oscar Tornado, which combines the best of both worlds.
With good food, great service, and once-in-a-lifetime Gulf views, you really can’t go wrong with Marina Café. It’s the perfect location to celebrate special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or just a night out with your loved one.
14. Crab Island Seafood Restaurant
2 Harbor Blvd Unit 100A in Destin / 850-714-4489$$What to Eat: Bam Bam Shrimp
Why Eat Here: Crab Island Seafood Restaurant is a fun open-air restaurant. It’s so colorful and vibrant, with splashes of pastel seafoam green and pink as far as the eye can see. Just setting foot in the restaurant space can change your mood. It’s tough not to be joyful when you’re at Crab Island.
Patrons can sit at the bar or on the covered outdoor seating in the Harbor Walk Village. If you’re lucky, you might be able to snag one of the adorable canopy-covered booths overlooking the harbor.
The wide array of seafood at this spot doesn’t stack up as well as many other restaurants on our list. It may not be as well polished as some other establishments, but sharing a meal at this spot is an authentic Florida experience.
15. Harbor Docks
538 Harbor Blvd in Destin / 850-837-2506$$What to Eat: D.O.C. Roll
Why Eat Here: Harbor Docks is an old-school Destin treasure. It’s not flashy or out to impress anybody. This local favorite seafood restaurant has been serving smiles and mouthwatering food for nearly 45 years. To say they know what they are doing would be an understatement.
The building has a lodge-like feel, warm and welcoming, complete with an impressive bar. Both indoor and outdoor seating on the deck are available. Top recommendations here include sushi, grouper, and swordfish.
The seafood here is supplied from the restaurant’s own local market, which is run just below the dining area. So you know the goods will be fresh!
16. Lulu’s
4607 Legendary Marina Dr in Destin / 850-710-5858$$What to Eat: Nachos
Why Eat Here: Lulu’s is another tropics-inspired open-air eatery that will leave the whole family on cloud 9. The colors and open-air concept alone will surely win the kids over, not to mention the picnic table-style seating right next to the beach where you can watch the kites fly.
Little ones will be pecking at their lunches between tours out into the sand to dance to the live music. Lulu’s is one of the most fun places to dine in Destin.
Lulu’s has some great seafood options, but if you want to jazz it up, this is also a great place to grab a juicy burger or a stacked sandwich. And the experience wouldn’t be complete without the impressive line-up of cocktails, beer, and wine.
17. Tailfins Waterfront Grill
172 Harbor Blvd / 850-650-1200$$What to Eat: Pretzel & Fried Pickles
Why Eat Here: Tailfins Waterfront Grill is a large-scale operation. The massive sports tavern has pretty marina views alongside the waterfront. Seating is featured in both the main level and upper outdoor deck.
The deck offers a fun atmosphere under the sun, with umbrellaed picnic tables. The indoor bar has large flat-screen TVs, where patrons root for their favorite teams every game day. Things stay lively in the dining space, which is adorned with sports pennants.
Non-sports fans can enjoy the ambiance here with one of the house cocktails (the Southern Gentleman and Rum Runner are favorites) or frozen creation beverages (daiquiri or margarita, among others) served in a souvenir Tailfins Waterfront cup.
This is a great place to visit if you’ve got a party with varied tastes. The food ranges from bar classics like wings and sandwiches to seafood baskets and prime steaks. There is an entree for everyone.
Remember to stop by the larger-than-life beach chair to snag a family photo to commemorate your meal at Tailfines Waterfront Grill!
FAQ: Best Restaurants in Destin
What Type of Food is Destin Known For?
Destin is home to some of Florida’s busiest fishing fleets. That said, gulf-to-table seafood meals are a Destin trademark.
What is So Special About Destin, Florida?
Destin is a little Floridian paradise. You can stay in town and explore the town’s beaches or hit the road to check out the gorgeous 30A beaches. There’s also world-class golfing and water sports, which bring tourists from all over the globe. Being the home of the largest fishing fleet in Florida is the town’s actual claim to fame.
If hotel rooms in Destin are difficult to come by, travelers can find some amazing amenities at Fort Walton Beach hotels, a nearby beach town.
What Are the Most Popular Restaurants in Destin?
East Pass Seafood & Oyster House, Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi, and Crackings are some of the most popular restaurants in Destin. The city is full of so many delicious places to eat!
What Are the Best Restaurants in Destin that Deliver?
The best restaurants in Destin that deliver are Italian restaurant chains like Merlins Pizza and Jet’s Pizza. Some Mexican restaurants in Destin, Florida, provide delivery as well. Local favorites include La Paz and Burrito Del Sol.
Conclusion: Best Restaurants in Destin
Destin is home to one of Florida’s best Gulf Coast beaches, but it’s also stunningly beautiful and a fun place to visit. Family-friendly eats on the beach, romantic fine dining, or even curbside pick-up, you can always eat well when you’re in Destin! When it comes to food, this place has got you covered for every occasion.
Whether you’re taking a family vacation of a lifetime or planning a romantic getaway, we hope you have a wonderful time and enjoy each meal along the way!
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