Destin Best Places to Eat

Introduction to Destin’s Culinary Scene

Destin, a city located on the Emerald Coast of Florida, is renowned for its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and an array of dining options that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. The city’s culinary scene is a reflection of its coastal location, with seafood being a staple in many of its restaurants. However, Destin also offers a variety of other cuisines, including American, Italian, Mexican, and more, ensuring that visitors and locals alike can find something that suits their palate. In this article, we will explore some of the best places to eat in Destin, highlighting their unique features, popular dishes, and what makes them stand out in the city’s vibrant dining scene.

Seafood Restaurants

Destin is famously known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” which implies that its seafood restaurants serve some of the freshest catches. Here are a few notable seafood restaurants: - The Donut Hole: While known for its donuts, The Donut Hole also serves excellent seafood, especially for breakfast. Their seafood omelets and crab cake benedict are favorites among locals and visitors. - Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant has been a Destin staple for decades. It offers a wide range of seafood dishes, including grilled, fried, and boiled options, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. - Harbor Docks: Located on the harbor, this restaurant provides stunning views while serving up fresh seafood. It’s particularly famous for its sushi and seafood platters.

American Cuisine

For those looking for traditional American fare, Destin has plenty of options that serve high-quality burgers, steaks, and comfort food. - The Crab Trap: Although it serves seafood, The Crab Trap is also known for its American classics like burgers and sandwiches, all with a coastal twist. - Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville: Inspired by the legendary musician, this restaurant offers a fun, casual dining experience with a menu that includes cheeseburgers, BBQ ribs, and Margaritaville’s famous margaritas. - Boathouse Oyster Bar & Grill: This casual, waterfront restaurant serves a mix of seafood and American favorites, including oysters, shrimp, and steaks, all in a lively atmosphere.

International Cuisine

Destin’s dining scene is not limited to seafood and American cuisine. The city also boasts a variety of international restaurants: - Captain Dave’s on the Gulf: Offers a range of dishes, including Italian and Greek options, in addition to its seafood and American fare. - La Paz Restaurant & Cantina: For a taste of Mexico, La Paz is a great choice, with its tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes, all made with fresh ingredients. - Pompano Joe’s: This beachfront restaurant serves Caribbean-inspired dishes, including jerk chicken and seafood paella, providing a unique dining experience.

Breakfast and Brunch Spots

Starting the day off right in Destin can be done at one of its many excellent breakfast and brunch spots: - Another Broken Egg Cafe: Known for its creative omelets and generous portions, this cafe is a must-visit for breakfast lovers. - The Breakfast Club: Offers a fun dining experience with a menu that includes everything from pancakes and waffles to eggs and bacon, all made with a creative twist. - Crackings: A local favorite for breakfast, serving up Southern comfort food like biscuits and gravy, grits, and fried green tomatoes.

Desserts and Snacks

No visit to Destin would be complete without trying some of its local desserts and snacks: - The Donut Hole: Famous for its donuts, which are made fresh throughout the day. They offer a variety of flavors and are a great place to stop for a sweet treat. - Kilwin’s Destin: This chocolate shop and ice cream parlor is a dream come true for those with a sweet tooth. It offers handmade chocolates, fudge, and ice cream, all made with high-quality ingredients. - Blue Mountain Beach Creamery: Provides artisanal ice cream in unique flavors, making it a perfect spot to cool off during the hot Destin summers.

🍴 Note: Always check the current hours of operation and menus for these restaurants, as they can change seasonally.

In summary, Destin’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering something for every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, and from hearty breakfasts to sweet treats, Destin is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, exploring the city’s dining options is sure to be a highlight of your experience.