Destin Florida Best Restaurants

Introduction to Destin, Florida’s Culinary Scene

Destin, Florida, is renowned for its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and a plethora of recreational activities. However, beyond its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Destin boasts a vibrant culinary scene that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. From fresh seafood to gourmet cuisine, the city offers a wide range of dining options that make it a food lover’s paradise. In this article, we will delve into the best restaurants in Destin, Florida, highlighting their unique features, menus, and what makes them stand out.

Seafood Restaurants

Destin’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico makes it an ideal location for seafood enthusiasts. The city is home to numerous seafood restaurants that serve the freshest catches of the day. Some of the top seafood restaurants in Destin include: - The Boathouse Oyster Bar & Grill: Known for its extensive selection of oysters and seafood dishes, this restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and stunning waterfront views. - Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant has been a Destin staple for decades, serving up fresh seafood in a cozy, welcoming environment. - AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar: With its location in the heart of Destin’s Harbor, AJ’s offers a unique dining experience with a wide variety of seafood dishes and live music.

Gourmet and Fine Dining

For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Destin’s gourmet and fine dining restaurants offer exquisite cuisine and exceptional service. Some notable mentions include: - Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood: This upscale restaurant is located in the Silver Shells Beach Resort and Spa, offering an elegant atmosphere and a menu that features prime steaks and fresh seafood. - Bijoux Restaurant + Spirits: With its sophisticated ambiance and creative dishes, Bijoux is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, serving everything from steak to seafood and pasta. - Cafe Thirty-A: This restaurant is known for its gourmet dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, offering a unique dining experience in a cozy, upscale setting.

Casual Eats and Family-Friendly Restaurants

Destin is also home to a variety of casual and family-friendly restaurants that are perfect for a relaxed dining experience. Some popular options include: - The Donut Hole: A Destin institution for over 40 years, The Donut Hole is famous for its homemade donuts and offers a wide range of breakfast and lunch items. - Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville: Located in the Destin Commons, this restaurant is a fun spot for families and fans of Jimmy Buffett, serving up burgers, sandwiches, and tropical drinks. - Lulu’s Destin: Owned by Lucy Buffett, Jimmy’s sister, Lulu’s is a casual, family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including seafood, burgers, and salads, in a fun, lively atmosphere.

Breakfast and Brunch Spots

Starting the day off right is easy in Destin, with numerous restaurants serving up delicious breakfast and brunch options. Some top picks include: - Another Broken Egg Cafe: This popular breakfast spot offers a wide range of omelets, pancakes, and other morning favorites in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. - The Breakfast Club: With its creative dishes and fun atmosphere, The Breakfast Club is a favorite among locals and visitors, serving everything from traditional breakfast items to unique brunch dishes. - Sunrise Cafe: This family-owned cafe is a hidden gem, offering a variety of breakfast and lunch items, including omelets, pancakes, and sandwiches, in a cozy, beach-themed setting.

🌟 Note: Reservations are highly recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak season.

Food Trucks and Markets

For a more casual and spontaneous dining experience, Destin’s food trucks and markets offer a variety of options. Some popular food trucks include: - Tasty Truck: Serving up gourmet grilled cheese and other comfort foods, Tasty Truck is a favorite among locals and visitors. - Destin Food Truck: Offering a variety of dishes, including seafood, burgers, and tacos, Destin Food Truck is a great option for a quick, delicious meal. - The Crab Trap: This seafood market and restaurant offers fresh seafood and prepared dishes, including crab legs, shrimp, and fish, in a casual, no-frills setting.

Restaurant	Cuisine	Price Range
The Boathouse Oyster Bar & Grill	Seafood	$15-$30
Seagar's Prime Steaks & Seafood	Steak, Seafood	$30-$50
Cafe Thirty-A	Gourmet	$20-$40

In conclusion, Destin, Florida, offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. From fresh seafood to gourmet cuisine, and from casual eats to fine dining, the city’s culinary scene is sure to delight even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or just looking for a unique dining experience, Destin has something for everyone.