Panama City Beach Seafood Restaurants Picked by a Local
When it comes to seafood, you have plenty of options in Panama City Beach. From hole-in-the-wall spots to fine dining, there is something to suit you no matter the mood you’re in. The challenge with Panama City Beach seafood restaurants is boiling down a list to the top five. But each of these gems have been cherished for years by locals and visitors alike.
Local’s Pick: 5 Panama City Beach Seafood Restaurants
The Classic
Capt. Anderson’s has been serving fresh Panama City Beach seafood with original recipes since 1967. The locals start with the famous grilled bay shrimp. These plump, juicy peel-n-eat shrimp are just the thing to whet the appetite. When ordering a main course the soups are delicious, but because of the founders (the Petronis brothers), the Greek salad is really a must.
One of our personal favorites are the Maryland jumbo crab cakes. They make claim to these being the best you’ve ever had, and we second that! If you want to try something different, order the charbroiled fish on the Greek-style hearth, which is caught fresh.
Aw Shucks
Just across the bridge from the beach, Hunt’s Oyster Bar serves up some of the best oysters in the southeast. In an atmosphere perfect for a local beach spot, it is hard to find a place like Hunts. Surrounded by a sea shell drive, décor such as a boat out front and an eclectic interior, Hunt’s makes you feel as though you just came off of the oyster coat with your crew.
They serve some amazingly fresh oysters either raw or prepared in various ways. Guests can have them baked or steamed, Cajun style, with three cheese, jalapeno or a combo of three-cheese and Cajun – which are our favorite. If you like heat, add jalapenos. While oysters are the show stoppers, Hunt’s has a full menu of other items and seafood that make the trip worthwhile.
Eatin’ on the Dock of the Bay
Situated in a boat slip at St. Andrews Marina, Just the Cook serves unique pairings with a friendly staff! The shrimp tortuga is simply delicious, and the crab cake sandwich is an interesting twist on a classic. The menu is short, but what they lack in quantity, they make up for in quality. Some items of note: Since it is in a marina be cognizant of the weather as you eat on the dock. Lastly, if you are a soldier or veteran, they give a pretty good discount too, since the owner is a Marine.
The Last Local Beach Club
This seafood stop has one of the best atmospheres in Panama City Beach with direct beach access and gorgeous views. Schooners has extremely fresh seafood chefs buy from local captains every morning. Its menu has a mix for almost any appetite, but locals know the daily specials is where it’s at. This is where chefs get to put their heart into what they create with a Southern twist.
The Dining Experience
Firefly makes a big impact on anyone who steps foot inside. From the she-crab soup to sushi, snapper and much more, it is apparent this place has some of the best food on Panama City Beach. Not only does Firefly have amazing cuisine, the layout of the restaurant and theme are hard to find elsewhere. It’s clear the owners set out to create great food and a dining experience to be remembered.
Great seafood and Panama City Beach go hand-in-hand together. The town boasts some of the best dishes with some of the best atmospheres. All the more reason to stay in a Panama City Beach vacation rental. Of course, if looking for a more permanent stay, visit our friends at Latitudes Realty for Panama City Beach condos.
Those who love fresh catches and Panama City Beach seafood should attend Lobster Festival and Tournament in Panama City Beach.
About the Author: Brooke Newell was born and raised in Panama City Beach, Florida, an experience she will never forget. Brooke attended the University of Florida in Gainesville and currently helps others achieve their real estate ownership dreams.