Florida’s Emerald Coast offers an exceptional dining landscape that combines outstanding cuisine with the natural beauty of the Gulf. From classic southern dishes to creative coastal fare, the region showcases the best of local ingredients and Gulf Coast culture.
Whether you are seeking a relaxed beachside breakfast, a scenic lunch with waterfront views, or an upscale dinner to complete your day, the area is home to restaurants that reflect its vibrant and welcoming culinary spirit. This guide features some of the top dining destinations along the coast to help you experience the flavors that make this part of Florida truly special. Visit our prior blog, ‘Best Places to Eat While Visiting Destin, Florida’ for another look at some of the area’s favorite bites.
Our Handpicked Favorites
Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer – Destin
Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer is a premier dining destination on the Destin Harbor, known for its locally inspired cuisine and family friendly atmosphere.Guests can expect a polished southern fish house setting and a chef-driven menu featuring standout offerings such as steamed snow crab, lobster, and mussels. Located on the Destin Harbor at 210D Harbor Boulevard, is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Crackings – Destin
Known for its warm service, generous portions, and creative Southern-inspired dishes, Crackings is a beloved family-owned breakfast and brunch spot. Guests rave about favorites like the Lobster Gouda Grits, specialty omelets, and indulgent sweets such as Tiramisu French Toast. Crackings is located at 979 Highway 98 East in Destin and is open from 7:00 a.m. to about 2:00 p.m., and is closed on Mondays.
McGuire’s Irish Pub – Destin
McGuire’s Irish Pub in Destin is a lively, iconic restaurant known for its turn-of-the-century Irish saloon atmosphere and a bustling, family friendly vibe. Located at 33 US-98, the pub serves hearty Irish and American fare, including steaks, Shepherd’s Pie, burgers, and its famous 18-cent Senate Bean Soup. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Sunset Bay Cafe – Sandestin
Sunset Bay Cafe offers a relaxed waterfront setting with views of Choctawhatchee Bay. The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, featuring options such as eggs Benedict, beignets, shrimp grilled cheese, and coastal-inspired seafood dishes. The restaurant is located at 158 Sandestin Boulevard North and open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar – Sandestin
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar offers a polished yet relaxed island-inspired dining experience, blending tropical décor with a resort-style atmosphere that feels perfect for vacation evenings. Located at 525 Grand Boulevard, the restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, vibrant coastal flavors, and signature dishes such as macadamia-nut-crusted fish, coconut shrimp, and mahi-mahi. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to around 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and slightly later on weekends.
Bistro Bijoux – Miramar Beach
Bijoux in Miramar Beach is an upscale restaurant offering a polished blend of coastal and New Orleans–inspired cuisine. Located at 9375 US-98 West, the restaurant serves dinner nightly beginning at 5:00 p.m. and is known for its fresh Gulf seafood, high-quality steaks, and extensive wine selection.
The Shack, Original Waterfront Crab Shack – Fort Walton Beach
The Shack, located at 104 Miracle Strip Parkway SW in Fort Walton Beach, provides a relaxed waterfront dining experience overlooking the Santa Rosa Sound. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., the restaurant is well regarded for its extensive seafood offerings, including steamed crab legs, fresh shrimp, oysters, fish platters, po’boys, and its signature gumbolaya. Combining fresh seafood, scenic views, and approachable service, The Shack remains a popular choice for families, locals, and travelers looking to enjoy classic Florida flavors by the water.
Rockin Tacos – Fort Walton Beach
This vibrant Mexican-seafood grill and tequila bar delivers a laid-back beachfront dining experience with Gulf views. Guests can expect to find a varied menu of tacos, burritos, fajitas, and house-made salsa, plus a full bar featuring signature margaritas. Rockin Tacos is located at 1450 Miracle Strip Parkway SE and is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., extending to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Stewby’s Seafood Shanty – Fort Walton Beach
Stewby’s Seafood Shanty is a local favorite in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, known for fresh Gulf Coast seafood served in a friendly, casual setting. Guests stop in for favorites like fried shrimp, fish sandwiches, and daily catch specials. Located at 427 Racetrack Road NW, it is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. making it an easy and tasty stop during your Emerald Coast visit.
Fish Out of Water – Santa Rosa Beach
Fish Out of Water, located at 34 Goldenrod Circle in Santa Rosa Beach, is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. with weekend brunch offered from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The restaurant provides a polished coastal dining experience with Gulf views and a menu centered on fresh, locally sourced seafood and Southern coastal cuisine.
Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar – Santa Rosa Beach
Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar features raw and grilled oysters, fried shrimp, Gulf fish baskets, and seasonal specialties, all served in a casual beachfront setting with both indoor and outdoor seating. With live music, generous portions, and friendly service, Shunk Gulley is a popular choice for visitors and locals seeking a vibrant and approachable seafood restaurant along 30A. Located at 1875 South Highway 393 in Santa Rosa Beach and open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
La Crema – Rosemary Beach
La Crema Tapas and Chocolate offers a Spanish-inspired dining experience focused on tapas, paellas, and fresh coastal dishes. The restaurant features an inviting courtyard and a menu designed for sharing, along with notable wine selections and rich chocolate desserts. Located at 38 Main Street in Rosemary Beach and open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. with extended hours until 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays,
A Taste of the Emerald Coast
When you book with Shore Dreams Vacation Rentals, you’re never far from the area’s most popular eateries, making it easy to explore the coast, enjoy incredible meals, and experience the Emerald Coast like a true local. From beachfront views to fresh Gulf seafood spots and trendy cafés, the Emerald Coast is packed with flavors worth traveling for. No matter what’s on your vacation menu, these top dining picks bring the best of Destin, San Destin, 30A and Okaloosa Island straight to your table.
When it’s time to turn delicious days into unforgettable stays, Shore Dreams Vacation Rentals has the perfect home base waiting for you. With spacious condos, pet-friendly homes, and prime locations just minutes from the area’s hottest restaurants, Shore Dreams helps you eat, explore, and enjoy the Emerald Coast like a local. Book your stay and start planning your tastiest vacation yet!
