Best Places to Eat in Destin 

Are you looking for the best places to eat in Destin, FL? Check out these ten best restaurants in Destin. 

Sitting on the Florida Panhandle in the Gulf of Mexico, Destin, Florida, is a city full of adventure, beautiful scenery, and great food. Best known for its miles of award-winning beaches, nature trails, state parks, and fun activities that the whole family will enjoy, it is no wonder that many young professionals and families are searching for homes in Destin. 

Referred to as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," many anglers travel far and wide to fish in Destin since it is home to many different fish species, including grouper, blackfin tuna, king mackerel, sailfish, tarpon, and mahi-mahi. Since fishing is so prevalent in Destin, it is no surprise that this sought-after Florida city offers many highly-rated seafood restaurants that all serve freshly caught local seafood. 

Recognized as a haven for food lovers, there are more ways than one to enjoy a great meal in Destin. Whether you are looking for a new brunch, lunch, or dinner place, finding a convenient, affordable, and delicious restaurant is accessible when living in Destin. 

If you are moving to Destin or visiting the area for the first time, check out these top-rated restaurants guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. 

Here are the best restaurants in Destin 

Dewey Destin's Seafood Restaurant 

Price: $$

Specialty: Seafood 

Location: 9 Calhoun Ave 

Hours: 11 AM to 9 PM daily 

Phone Number: (850) 837-7575

Dewey Destin's Seafood Restaurant overlooks Crab Island and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and fresh, sustainable seafood. Found on the Bay at Destin's East Pass, this waterfront restaurant serves some of the best seafood in town and offers friendly service with a smile. Owned by Dewey Destin and his family, this beloved seafood restaurant takes your order at a window, and visitors can eat their meal outside on the dog-friendly patio. At the same time, they enjoy the spectacular views of the ocean. 

Louisiana Lagniappe 

Price: $$$

Specialty: Louisiana Cuisine 

Location: 775 Gulf Shore Dr

Hours: 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM daily

Phone Number: (850) 837-0881

Louisiana Lagniappe is found inside Sandpiper Cove Condominiums and is the number one place in Destin to enjoy Louisiana-style seafood and other favorites. Recognized as a premier dining destination on the Emerald Coast, this upscale waterfront venue opened in 1984 and has served the area ever since. 

Not only has Louisiana Lagniappe gained a loyal following since its opening, but its tropical decorations, sophisticated atmosphere, and gorgeous harbor views make it one of the best places to eat in Destin. Serving fresh seafood caught in the Gulf of Mexico with Creole flavor and influences, there is no better place to spend a romantic evening or a nice dinner with friends and family. 

Offering a memorable dining experience open all year round, visitors can wear casual attire when dining here. All menu items, from Shrimp and Grits to Jambalaya, are flavorful and made using only the best ingredients. Also, Louisiana Lagniappe does its best to accommodate its guests by providing a children, dessert, and gluten-free menu. 

The Local Market 

Price: $$

Specialty: Breakfast 

Location: 950 Gulf Shore Dr 

Hours: 7 AM to 3 PM daily

Phone Number: (850) 460-8979

Are you looking for a great place to eat breakfast in Destin, Florida? Then look no further than The Local Market, which serves tasty breakfast and lunch favorites to locals and tourists daily. Featuring a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food for reasonable prices, it is no wonder that so many people love to eat here. 

Found in a rustic and casual setting, this restaurant specializes in American comfort food and is known for having a chalkboard menu. Serving smoothies, juices, coffee, classic breakfast items, sandwiches, and salads, there is always something delicious to order. 

McGuire's Irish Pub

Price: $$ 

Specialty: Steakhouse 

Location: 33 US-98

Hours: 11 AM to 2 AM daily 

Phone Number: (850) 650-0000

Offering a fun experience and a unique environment, McGuire's Irish Pub on the Destin Harbor is a top-rated steakhouse and Irish pub that serves traditional Irish cuisine. Featuring live entertainment and music performed by local artists most nights, dining here is not just an excellent place to eat but a great time. 

First opened in Destin in 1966, one of the most incredible things about this Irish pub is the more than one million signed dollars hanging from the ceilings and walls put there by customers. Featuring a brunch, lunch, and dinner menu, some popular dishes include Corned Beef and Cabbage, Shepherds Pie, Fish and Chips, and Irish Boxtys. 

Named the Best Steakhouse eighth year in a row and Best All Around Restaurant, it is no secret that people love to eat here. Also home to another location in Pensacola; both places have the same great food and entertainment. Unfortunately,  reservations can not be made in advance for parties of any size. 

Bric á Brac 

Price: $$ 

Specialty: American 

Location: 824 Gulf Shore Dr 

Hours: 5 PM to 10 PM Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday 

Phone Number: (850) 424-6369

A great place to bring the whole family, Bric á Brac is a lively restaurant and bar in Destin that serves fresh American favorites. Featuring an outdoor patio, live entertainment, and a dance floor, there is no better spot to eat a great meal and have fun at the same time. 

Locally owned and operated by the Petit twin brothers, this restaurant has been serving the area since its opening in 2014 and is known for its tasty food and artsy decorations. Providing a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Bric á Brac is the proud winner of Best in Destin for having the Best Crab Cakes multiple years in a row. 

As a trendy spot on the Emerald Coast, the dinner menu consists of delicious appetizers, salads, and main courses made using fresh ingredients. A gluten-free menu is also available that guests can look through. 

Make sure to visit Bric á Brac every Friday and Saturday for Latin Nights, which is found upstairs. Offering live music and hookah services, doors open at 11 PM for this late-night experience. All guests must be 18 to enter and over 21 to drink. 

Mimmo's Ristorante Italiano 

Price: $$ 

Specialty: Italian 

Location: 979 US Hwy 98 E 

Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM Monday - Thursday, 11 AM - 9:30 PM Friday, 5 PM to 10 PM Saturday - Sunday 

Phone Number: (850) 460-7353

Mimmo's Ristorante Italiano is the go-to in Destin for authentic Italian cuisine. With two locations, one in Destin and the other in Santa Rosa Beach, this Italian eatery is known for its flavorful and mouthwatering dishes, all homemade with fresh ingredients.  

Found in an elegant and refined setting with wood and stone accents, dining here is perfect for a date night, birthday dinner, or gathering with friends and family. As one of Destin's hottest and most well-known restaurants, Mimmo's Ristorante Italiano provides a fantastic atmosphere with a full bar. 

Great for lunch or dinner, the menu consists of appetizers, salads, housemade pasta, steak, chicken dishes, seafood, and pizza. When dining here, make sure to order a dessert. The dessert menu includes Tiramisu, Cheesecake, Cannoli, and Nutella Pizza.  

Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House 

Price: $$$ 

Specialty: Seafood 

Location: 414 Harbour Blvd 

Hours: 11 AM to 9:30 PM Sunday - Thursday, 11 AM to 10 PM Friday - Saturday, 

Phone Number: (850) 424-7406

In Destin Harbor, Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House is a kid-friendly, locally sourced seafood restaurant with great food and good service. Offering some of the finest dining on the Destin Harbor, this casual restaurant provides stunning ocean views, two full bars, and dishes using only the finest quality ingredients. 

Featuring indoor and outdoor dining, Boshamps serves some of the freshest seafood and specializes in the Gulf to Table Experience. Hosting live music from local artists and several annual events throughout the year, including the Swordy Shootout, BoJamz, and the Destin Flathead Classic Fishing Tournament, something exciting is always happening at this restaurant. 

Jackacuda's Seafood and Sushi

Price: $$ 

Specialty: Seafood 

Location: 36120 Emerald Coast Pkwy

Hours: 11:30 AM to 9 PM Sunday - Thursday, 11:30 AM to 10 PM Friday - Saturday

Phone Number: (850) 460-2909

Relax, hang out, and enjoy fresh seafood at Jackacuda's Seafood and Sushi. This local family-owned and operated restaurant serves fresh-caught seafood, sushi, burgers, poke bowls, and Southern and Asian-inspired dishes in a laid-back atmosphere. 

Offering dine-in and curbside pickup options, this beloved Destin restaurant features daily happy hour specials and weekly promotions that guests can take advantage of. With a menu full of unique and tasty options, visitors can order online or make reservations in advance. 

Harry T's Lighthouse 

Price: $$ 

Specialty: Seafood 

Location: 46 Harbour Dr 

Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM Monday - Friday, 9 AM to 10 PM Saturday - Sunday 

Phone Number: (850) 654-4800

Harry T's Lighthouse is found at Emerald Grandes' Harborwalk Village at the mouth of Destin Harbor and is a popular spot that serves American and Seafood favorites. With beautiful views of the waterfront and magnificent sunsets every night, the food and the atmosphere at Harry T's Lighthouse is unmatched. 

Specializing in locally caught seafood from the Gulf, this is a fantastic spot to enjoy brunch, lunch, and dinner all week. Featuring happy hour from 11 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday and a diverse menu full of seafood, steak, chicken, pasta, soups, and salads, make sure to add Harry T's Lighthouse to your Destin bucket list. 

The Back Porch

Price: $$ 

Specialty: Seafood 

Location: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98 

Hours: 11 AM to 9 PM daily 

Phone Number: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98 

Serving the locals since 1974, The Back Porch is a Destin favorite that offers breathtaking beachfront dining with Gulf views, raw oysters, and delicious seafood. Best known for its Amberjack Sandwich, all seafood is delivered daily and bursting with flavor. 

Home to another location in Panama City Beach, many people love to eat at The Back Porch for its high-quality food, extended porch, and beach chairs on the sand. Even though they do not take reservations, call-ahead seating is available. In our opinion — The Back Porch is one of the best places to eat in Destin, Florida. 

FAQs 

As one of the best places to live in Florida, here are some common questions about the best restaurants in Destin. 

What food is Destin, Florida, known for? 

Destin offers plenty of food options, but it is most known for its gulf-to-table seafood, delicious steaks, barbeque, and unique eats such as alligator tacos. 

What makes Destin so great? 

Destin is a unique place to live since it is close to the Continental Shelf and offers deep water access and prime offshore fishing opportunities. 

Is it worth it to go to Destin? 

Worth the move and the visit; Destin is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches, clear water, golf courses, and plenty of fun things to do. 

Is Destin a walkable city? 

Considered to be a somewhat walkable city, most residents own a car, but some neighborhoods are more walkable than others, including Downtown Destin, and offer easy access to amenities that can be reached by foot. 

The Best Restaurants in Destin - Final Thoughts

No matter where you are in Destin, a delicious restaurant is always waiting to be explored. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, even the pickiest eaters will find a restaurant they like to eat at. If you are moving to Florida and are considering calling Destin home, contact the realty experts at UpHomes. We are here to answer any questions and help you find your dream home in one of the many fantastic Destin neighborhoods.