TL;DR (too long; didn’t read): Discover the top 10 dining gems in Destin, FL, ranging from the historic seafood of Dewey Destin’s Harborside to the authentic Italian flavors at Pazzo Italiano. This guide covers a diverse array of culinary hotspots, including the romantic Beach Walk Cafe and the lively McGuire’s Irish Pub, offering something for every palate. Experience the best of Destin’s dining scene, from waterfront views to cozy, family-friendly atmospheres.
Dewey Destin’s offers more than just fresh Florida seafood; it’s an immersive journey into the Destin family’s fishing heritage, dating back to the mid-1800s. The brand, including Dewey Destin Harborside, is renowned for its array of traditional seafood dishes in a casual, old-Florida setting. The original Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant, a quaint, shack-like establishment by the water, invites guests to experience the area’s rich history.
With multiple locations in the Destin and Navarre areas, these restaurants proudly continue the tradition of serving sustainable seafood sourced from local waters. Menu prices range from $20 to $40, and guests are encouraged to dress in resort casual attire. Open daily from 11 am to 9 pm, Dewey Destin’s is a must for those seeking an authentic Florida seafood experience, complete with historical ambiance and stunning views of Crab Island. A visit to Dewey Destin’s is a step back in time, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of Florida’s seafood heritage.
We recommend Dewey Destin’s for its combination of delightful harbor views and exquisite seafood offerings, including specialties like blackened grouper, snapper with parmesan and butter, and fresh oysters. The establishment not only caters to seafood lovers but also provides tasty options for those with dietary restrictions, all served by courteous and knowledgeable staff in a family-friendly environment that includes a park for children.
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Phone Number: (850) 837-7525
Address: 202 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in · Takeout
Louisiana Lagniappe, a renowned dining destination in Destin, has been delighting guests with its exceptional Gulf seafood and Creole-infused cuisine for over thirty years. Established in 1984 within the Sandpiper Cove condominiums, Louisiana Lagniappe quickly garnered a loyal following, a testament to its high-quality food and meticulous attention to service. The restaurant offers a unique blend of casual attire and upscale waterfront dining, making it a perfect spot for families seeking a memorable culinary experience. It’s not just about the food; the ambiance also plays a crucial role in creating an enjoyable dining atmosphere for guests of all ages.
Standing out among the hundreds of dining options in Destin, Louisiana Lagniappe has consistently ranked in the Top 10 restaurants on TripAdvisor, earning the Award of Excellence annually. This accolade speaks volumes about its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The restaurant specializes in serving only the freshest seafood and steaks, with each dish showcasing the distinctive flavors of Gulf seafood married with Creole flair. Open year-round, Louisiana Lagniappe opens its doors for dinner each evening at 4:30 pm, inviting guests to indulge in a dining experience that promises to be both flavorful and unforgettable.
Louisiana Lagniappe is highly recommended for its exceptional service and culinary excellence, offering a diverse menu with standout dishes like twin lobster tails, tournedos of beef, and the acclaimed Bayou Grouper. The atmosphere, particularly on the patio, enhances the dining experience, making it ideal for special occasions or a fancy night out.
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Phone Number: (850) 837-0881
Address: 775 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in · Takeout
Harbor Docks, a fixture in the Destin dining scene since 1979, has built its reputation on serving freshly prepared, locally sourced seafood. This seafood restaurant stands out for its commitment to authenticity and quality, offering dishes made entirely from scratch. A key highlight is their own wholesale seafood market, established in 1981, which ensures the freshest possible seafood for their customers. This direct-from-Gulf-to-table approach is a rarity, with Harbor Docks taking pride in the fact that over 90% of seafood served in the U.S. is imported, whereas they offer genuinely local products.
What sets Harbor Docks apart is not just its food, but its deep-rooted connection with the community. The restaurant is a family affair in every sense, serving generations of families with a personal touch that extends to their staff, many of whom represent two generations of the same families. This sense of belonging extends to every guest, with an aim to make everyone feel like a part of the Harbor Docks family. Their dedication to local sourcing extends beyond seafood, as they also utilize produce from local growers, emphasizing a common-sense approach to freshness and quality.
For those seeking an authentic Destin seafood experience, Harbor Docks is a must-visit destination. It represents not just a meal, but a piece of Destin’s history and a commitment to quality and community rarely seen in today’s dining landscape. Whether it’s their freshly caught seafood or the warm, family-oriented service, Harbor Docks promises a dining experience that is both unique and deeply satisfying.
Harbor Docks is recommended for its fresh and flavorful sushi, complemented by stunning views of Destin Harbor, offering a perfect blend of a delightful ambiance and high-quality dining. Whether it’s the chef’s special, the much-loved Yellowfin Tuna dip, or the best-in-town hamburgers, the restaurant caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring a memorable dining experience with a local feel.
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Phone Number: (850) 837-2506
Address: 538 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in · Takeout
Beach Walk Cafe, nestled within the Henderson Park Inn, offers a unique fine-dining experience directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Renowned for its romantic setting, the cafe has earned accolades as one of North America’s most romantic restaurants, thanks in no small part to its stunning location alongside the sand. Guests can indulge in a sensory journey that combines imaginative cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients with spectacular views of sunsets and star-filled skies. The restaurant is a favorite among both locals and tourists, celebrated for its meticulous service, innovative dishes, and the breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Gulf and the secluded beaches it overlooks.
This culinary haven stands out not only for its regular menu, which includes the freshest local seafood, steaks, venison, and pasta, but also for its special events. The Bubbles & Brunch, held on the first Sunday of every month, is a delightful blend of coastal charm and gourmet delicacies, complemented by complimentary bubbles and the picturesque backdrop of the Gulf. For those seeking a memorable holiday experience, Beach Walk Cafe offers special celebrations for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Additionally, the exclusive VIP Toes in the Sand dining experience provides an intimate, adult-only setting for those 13 years and older, where guests can enjoy a private table directly on the sand, complete with a dedicated server, for a dining experience that epitomizes barefoot luxury. With a resort casual dress code, the cafe offers both indoor dining with a cozy fireplace and outdoor seating on the verandas, ensuring every visit is as visually stunning as it is gastronomically satisfying.
Beach Walk Cafe is highly recommended for its quaint and intimate atmosphere, offering only 12 tables for a focused, quality dining experience. Guests can enjoy impeccably prepared dishes like snapper with truffle corn risotto and inventive cocktails, complemented by stunning ocean views and attentive, knowledgeable service that respects privacy, making it an ideal setting for special occasions or a peaceful beachside retreat.
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Phone Number: (850) 650-7100
Address: 2700 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in
Marina Cafe, renowned as Destin’s most-awarded restaurant, has been a staple of fine dining on the Emerald Coast for over 34 years. This prestigious establishment is celebrated for its exceptional cuisine, attentive service, and the enchanting ambiance of its candlelit dining room. The interior design, featuring soft colors and high ceilings, creates an atmosphere of elegance and comfort. What truly sets Marina Cafe apart is its breathtaking harbor views, visible through a thirty-foot window wall that allows diners to gaze out onto the Destin Harbor while enjoying their meal. This feature ensures that every visit is accompanied by a visual feast of serene waterfront beauty.
The culinary experience at Marina Cafe is equally impressive, offering a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes. The cuisine is a refined blend of classic Creole, Mediterranean, Pan-Asian, and American influences, ensuring that each dish is a discovery in itself. For seafood enthusiasts and steak connoisseurs alike, the cafe promises only the freshest local seafood and USDA prime steaks. Their extensive international wine collection, boasting over 100 selections, is expertly curated to complement the progressive menu, enhancing the overall dining experience. Additionally, the restaurant features gourmet brick oven pizza and a range of sushi selections, making it a versatile choice for any culinary preference. The waterfront cocktail deck offers an idyllic setting for enjoying sensational sunsets, adding to the allure of this celebrated dining destination. Whether it’s for a romantic evening, a special celebration, or a sophisticated night out, Marina Cafe stands as a testament to Destin’s rich culinary landscape.
Marina Cafe is recommended for its elegant yet casual fine dining experience, featuring stunning water views and outstanding service. Guests can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes, including farfalle pasta and shrimp and grits, complemented by special offers like happy hour deals and buy one get one entrees, all in a delightful ambiance that’s perfect for a memorable meal by the water.
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Phone Number: (850) 837-7960
Address: 404 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in
Located on the Destin Harbor, Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer is a locally-owned, family-friendly restaurant known for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The restaurant’s name, inspired by the Bearded Brotula or Cusk Eel found in the deep waters nearby, reflects its connection to the local fishing community. Brotula’s specializes in steamed and boiled shellfish platters, including favorites like snow crab, lobsters, and mussels, and offers a Chef-Inspired menu that showcases New South culinary styles with traditional coastal flavors from across the country.
The commitment to local sourcing is a hallmark of Brotula’s, with seafood directly from the Gulf of Mexico and partnerships with small local vendors. This approach ensures the freshest seafood for guests, accompanied by made-from-scratch dishes. Unique to Brotula’s is the “hook and cook” service, where guests can bring their own catch to be prepared by the chef, adding a personalized touch to the dining experience. With its fusion of fresh seafood, southern culinary twists, and picturesque harbor views, Brotula’s stands out as an essential dining destination on the Emerald Coast.
Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer is recommended for its delightful dining experience, offering quick service, delicious food like the Rajun Cajun steamer and blackened redfish, and friendly staff who are attentive to both adult and younger guests. The restaurant’s atmosphere is enhanced by its waterside location where diners can enjoy views of boats and occasional dolphin sightings, along with unique beverages like a virgin coconut lime mojito that adds to the overall enjoyment.
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Phone Number: (850) 460-8900
Address: 210D Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in – Takeout
Burrito Del Sol, a family-owned Mexican restaurant, has been delighting food enthusiasts in Fort Walton Beach and Destin, FL with its unique Baja-style cuisine. Established originally as a food truck in 2012 by the Hammet brothers and Brooks’ wife, Laura, the restaurant quickly outgrew its humble beginnings, transitioning from a shiny silver Airstream on Destin Harbor to a full-fledged eatery. Their menu, distinguished by four signature styles – baja, chipotle, bbq, and southwest – features slow-roasted chicken and steak, creating popular dishes like blackened shrimp tacos in baja style and steak nachos in chipotle style.
The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh, homemade food, including salsa, guacamole, seasonings, and sauces, with a commitment to offering new and exciting flavors. Their ever-changing daily specials reflect the owners’ global travels and culinary experiences in places like Colorado, California, and Thailand. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Burrito Del Sol provides a friendly, relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying fresh Mexican cuisine, complete with craft beer on tap. This eatery stands out as a delightful alternative to typical chain restaurants, offering a unique and satisfying dining experience in the Florida panhandle.
Burrito Del Sol is recommended for its delicious and light Mexican fare, offering a variety of flavorful options like shrimp tacos Baja style and chicken taco salad in Chipotle style. The casual, no-frills atmosphere is perfect for enjoying fresh, fulfilling meals that are both satisfying and not heavy on the stomach, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a break from seafood in Destin.
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Phone Number: (850) 424-6269
Address: 517 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in – Takeout
McGuire’s Irish Pub, established in 1977, has grown from a small neighborhood pub into a beloved culinary and cultural landmark. In 1982, it found its home in Pensacola’s original 1927 Old Firehouse, transforming into a 615-seat restaurant with a unique turn-of-the-century, New York Irish Saloon theme. The pub is renowned for its extraordinary atmosphere, featuring over a million signed dollar bills adorning the ceilings and walls, creating a vibrant and eclectic ambiance.
Expanding its charm, McGuire’s opened a second location in 1996 in Destin, situated on the picturesque Destin Harbor. This location mirrors the distinct New York Irish Saloon feel of the original, with 500 seats in the pub and an additional 150 seats on The Deck upstairs. The Deck offers stunning harbor views and is a perfect spot for enjoying dinner and vibrant nightlife, with some of the best live bands performing regularly. McGuire’s in both Pensacola and Destin is known for its great food, live Irish entertainment, and an inviting atmosphere, staying open until 2 am daily. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, McGuire’s Irish Pub offers a unique experience that blends Irish hospitality with a rich local history.
McGuire’s Irish Pub is highly recommended for its incredible atmosphere, featuring live music and unique decorations, alongside its substantial and delicious menu offerings, including favorites like corned beef and cabbage, and steak and mushroom pie. The restaurant not only provides an enjoyable dining experience with great service and affordable prices, but also adds a touch of novelty with traditions like leaving a dollar on the wall, making it an ideal spot for both family outings and date nights.
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Phone Number: (850) 650-0000
Address: 33 US-98, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in – Takeout
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House, situated along the scenic Destin Harbor, stands as a testament to over 40 years of culinary dreams and experiences. Evolving from the esteemed Flamingo Cafe into Boshamps, this establishment has shifted from formal dining to a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere without compromising on the quality of its offerings. The name Boshamps, a creative blend of the owner’s three labradors’ names and his initials, reflects the personal touch and passion infused into the restaurant. The core vision remains to provide an authentic and memorable Gulf to Table dining experience to guests and their families.
At Boshamps, guests are treated to stunning sunsets and a menu that showcases Chef Andi Bell’s expertise in Gulf of Mexico Basin and Caribbean cuisine, deeply rooted in Southern culinary traditions. Dubbed ‘Gulf to Table Southern Cuisine’, the menu features locally caught seafood, directly sourced from the Gulf and nearby waters, ensuring freshness and authenticity. This combination of a spectacular location, dedication to quality ingredients, and a commitment to a relaxed yet refined dining experience makes Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House a must-visit destination for anyone looking to savor the true essence of Southern coastal cuisine.
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House is highly recommended for its exceptional quality of food and breathtaking location right on the water, offering stunning views from almost every table. The restaurant provides a range of delicious seafood options like pan-fried Grouper and Snapper prepared in various ways, complemented by excellent service. Although there might be a wait, the lively atmosphere with live music and a comfortable outdoor area enhances the overall dining experience, making it well worth the visit.
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Phone Number: (850) 424-7406
Address: 414 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in – Takeout
Pazzo Italiano, a distinguished Italian restaurant with locations in Destin and Santa Rosa Beach, is the brainchild of two dedicated family men and restaurant aficionados, Alfonso Di Bonito and Levente Tischler. Their 20+ years of experience in delighting customers with exquisite Italian cuisine is evident in every aspect of the restaurant. Alfonso, hailing from Napoli, Italy, is a local award-winning Pizza Chef who began his journey in a bakery at age 14. His deep passion for cooking and Italian culinary traditions is reflected in Pazzo Italiano’s authentic menu. Levente, with his entrepreneurial spirit and vision, has been instrumental in realizing this dream from a young age in Romania.
Pazzo Italiano prides itself on offering a menu that blends classic Italian favorites with sophisticated flavors and creative combinations. The restaurant is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, which are cooked in traditional wood fire ovens to achieve a rich, authentic taste. Alongside pizzas, the menu features a variety of Italian staples including pasta, calzones, salads, and chef specialties, with nightly specials that keep patrons returning. This establishment is not just about serving food; it’s about sharing a passion for taste and love for service, making Pazzo Italiano a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true Italian dining experience.
Pazzo Italiano is highly recommended for its exquisite Italian cuisine, including authentic, wood-fired pizzas and the best Alfredo, complemented by friendly and attentive service. The relaxing and inviting atmosphere, combined with the culinary expertise of an Italian Chef and the cleanliness and appealing design of the restaurant, makes it a top choice for both locals and visitors in Destin.
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Phone Number: (850) 974-5484
Address: 34904 Emerald Coast Pkwy #114, Destin, FL 32541
Service options: Dine-in – Takeout