When planning a Destin vacation, one of the best parts is experiencing the incredible local food scene. From fresh Gulf seafood and waterfront restaurants to casual beach cafés and award-winning steakhouses, there are countless restaurants in Destin that deserve a spot on your vacation itinerary.
Here are our top picks for the best restaurants in Destin, Florida!
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House
If you're searching for the best Destin seafood restaurant, Boshamps should be at the top of your list. Located on beautiful Destin Harbor, this local favorite combines stunning waterfront views with fresh Gulf seafood and Southern coastal cuisine.
Grab a seat on the outdoor deck to watch fishing boats cruise by while enjoying locally caught grouper, oysters, shrimp, and one of Destin's most famous appetizers, the smoked tuna dip. It's one of the most popular places to eat during a Destin beach vacation and a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Don't Miss:
Smoked Tuna Dip
Blackened Grouper
Gulf Oysters
Key Lime Pie
The Louisiana Lagniappe
A longtime favorite among locals and visitors, Louisiana Lagniappe offers an upscale waterfront dining experience that's perfect for a romantic evening during your Destin vacation. Their menu combines fresh Gulf seafood with classic Cajun and Creole flavors.
Located on Holiday Isle, this restaurant is known for exceptional service, waterfront views, and expertly prepared seafood dishes.
Popular Choices:
Grouper Pontchartrain
Stuffed Fish
Crab Cakes
Filet Mignon
Dewey Destin's Seafood
No list of the best restaurants in Destin would be complete without Dewey Destin's. Operated by descendants of Destin's founding family, this casual seafood restaurant offers some of the freshest fish on the Emerald Coast.
The menu changes with the daily catch, making every visit a little different. It's an excellent stop after spending the day enjoying the beach or fishing in the Gulf.
Local Favorites:
Fresh Catch of the Day
Fried Gulf Shrimp
Hush Puppies
Fried Crab Claws
Marina Cafe
If you're looking for a memorable dinner during your vacation, Marina Cafe delivers spectacular harbor views along with premium seafood and hand-cut steaks.
Located near HarborWalk Village, it's a great place to enjoy sunset cocktails before exploring Destin's nightlife.
Must Try:
Lobster Bisque
Seafood Pasta
Prime Filet
Crab Cakes
The Back Porch
One of the most iconic beachfront restaurants in Destin, The Back Porch has welcomed visitors for decades. Located directly across from the Gulf, it's the perfect place to enjoy lunch or dinner after a day on Destin's famous beaches.
The relaxed atmosphere, fresh seafood, and Gulf views make it a favorite for families enjoying an Emerald Coast vacation.
Popular Menu Items:
Amberjack Sandwich
Chargrilled Grouper
Fried Shrimp Basket
Homemade Key Lime Pie
McGuire's Irish Pub
While seafood is king in Destin, McGuire's Irish Pub offers one of the area's most unique dining experiences. Known for enormous burgers, hand-cut steaks, homemade beer, and its famous walls covered with signed dollar bills, it's one of the most entertaining family-friendly restaurants in Destin.
Favorites Include:
Prime Rib
Senate Bean Soup
Irish Boxtys
Shepherd's Pie
Brotula's Seafood House and Steamer
Located along Destin Harbor, Brotula's is one of the best places for crab legs, seafood boils, and steamed Gulf seafood. The waterfront patio offers beautiful views while boats arrive with the day's fresh catch.
It's an excellent restaurant for large families visiting.
Don't Miss:
Seafood Boil
Snow Crab Legs
Royal Red Shrimp
Lobster Tail
Mimmo's Restaurante Italiano
Need a break from seafood? Mimmo's serves authentic Italian cuisine made with family recipes and fresh ingredients. Their homemade pasta and wood-fired specialties have made them one of the top-rated Italian restaurants in Destin.
Top Picks:
Lobster Ravioli
Chicken Parmesan
Fettuccine Alfredo
Tiramisu
Beach Walk Café
For one of the most romantic dinners on the Emerald Coast, reserve a table at Beach Walk Cafe. Located inside Henderson Park Inn, this elegant beachfront restaurant features panoramic Gulf views and an upscale menu perfect for anniversaries or special celebrations during your Destin getaway.
Recommended Dishes:
Fresh Gulf Fish
Filet Oscar
Lobster Risotto
Chocolate Bread Pudding
Crackings.
Start your day with breakfast at Crackings., one of the highest-rated breakfast restaurants in Destin. Before heading to the beach, fuel up with omelets, pancakes, Eggs Benedict, or shrimp and grits.
It's the perfect way to begin another day of your Destin family vacation.
Breakfast Favorites:
Crab Cake Benedict
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Shrimp & Grits
Stuffed French Toast
Whether you're visiting during spring break, summer, or the fall fishing season, these tips will help you enjoy the best restaurants in Destin:
Make reservations for dinner during peak vacation months.
Try the fresh catch of the day for the freshest Gulf seafood available.
Visit Destin Harbor restaurants around sunset for incredible waterfront views.
Explore HarborWalk Village after dinner for live music, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment.
Ask your server about locally caught grouper, snapper, amberjack, oysters, and Royal Red shrimp.
One of the best parts of any Destin, Florida vacation is discovering the incredible restaurants that make the Emerald Coast a favorite destination for food lovers. Whether you're enjoying fresh seafood on the harbor, a romantic beachfront dinner, or breakfast before a day on the beach, you'll find plenty of unforgettable dining experiences throughout Destin.
