At Signature Destinations, we know that a vacation isn’t complete without indulging in incredible local eats, so we’ve put together this Foodie’s Guide to Must-Try Dishes in Panama City Beach to help you make the most of your dining experience.
Gulf-Fresh Grouper Sandwich
📍 Best Places to Try It: Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant, Finns Island Style Grub, Dusty’s Oyster Bar
A Grouper Sandwich is a staple of the Gulf Coast. Freshly caught, flaky, and mild, grouper is best served blackened, grilled, or fried, nestled between a toasted bun, and topped with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy house-made sauce.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Fresh, local seafood with incredible flavor
- Perfectly crispy and juicy when fried
- The ultimate beachside comfort food
Pro Tip: Pair it with a side of hush puppies or crispy fries and a refreshing local beer for the full PCB experience.
Apalachicola Oysters – Raw, Baked, or Fried
📍 Best Places to Try It: Dusty’s Oyster Bar, Hunt’s Oyster Bar, Shuckums Oyster Pub
Oysters from the Apalachicola Bay, just east of PCB, are some of the freshest and best-tasting in the country. Whether you prefer them raw on the half shell, chargrilled with garlic butter, or deep-fried, you can’t visit PCB without indulging in these delicacies.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Ultra-fresh, harvested just miles away
- Served in multiple styles to fit any taste preference
- A true Florida Panhandle tradition
Pro Tip: If you're new to oysters, start with chargrilled or Rockefeller-style for a delicious introduction.
Bay Scallops – Sweet and Succulent
📍 Best Places to Try It: Captain Anderson’s, Schooners, Grand Marlin
Sweet, tender, and packed with flavor, Bay Scallops are a seasonal treat (typically available July through September). These little gems are often seared to perfection and served with butter, lemon, and a touch of garlic.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Naturally sweet and delicate flavor
- Buttery and melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Sustainably harvested from local waters
Pro Tip: Try them in a scallop pasta dish or served over creamy grits for an unforgettable meal.
Lobster Rolls – A PCB Coastal Favorite
📍 Best Places to Try It: The Back Porch, Finn’s Island Style Grub, Saltwater Grill
A lobster roll may be more commonly associated with New England, but PCB restaurants put their own spin on this classic dish. Served on a buttery toasted bun, these rolls are stuffed with tender chunks of lobster, lightly dressed in mayo or melted butter, and topped with fresh herbs.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Sweet and succulent lobster meat
- Buttery, toasted bun for the perfect bite
- A coastal classic with a Gulf Coast twist
Pro Tip: Order a side of sweet potato fries or coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.
Blackened Redfish – A Gulf Coast Classic
📍 Best Places to Try It: Dee’s Hangout, Runaway Island, Saltwater Grill
This spicy, flavorful dish is a must-try for seafood lovers. Redfish is coated in a bold mix of Cajun spices and seared in butter until the outside is crispy while keeping the inside juicy.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors
- Pairs perfectly with rice or grilled vegetables
- A true taste of the Gulf Coast
Pro Tip: Add a side of coleslaw and cornbread for the perfect Southern-style meal.
Smoked Tuna Dip – A PCB Favorite
📍 Best Places to Try It: Dat Cajun Place, Hook’d Pier Bar, Pineapple Willy’s
Why You’ll Love It:
- Creamy, smoky, and full of flavor
- Great for sharing with friends and family
- A local favorite you won’t find just anywhere
Pro Tip: Order a cold margarita or a local craft beer to complement the flavors.
Breakfast in PCB: Best Places to Start Your Day
📍 Best Places to Try It: Andy’s Flour Power, Thomas Donut & Snack Shop, Grits & Grind
PCB’s breakfast scene offers everything from Southern-style shrimp and grits to freshly baked donuts.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Crab Cake Benedict – A Florida-inspired twist on a classic
- Key Lime Pancakes – Sweet and tangy perfection
- Homemade Biscuits & Gravy – Southern comfort at its finest
Pro Tip: Get to Thomas Donut & Snack Shop early—they sell out fast!
Key Lime Pie – A Sweet & Tangy Florida Favorite
📍 Best Places to Try It: Firefly, Schooners, The Grand Marlin
No trip to PCB (or Florida, for that matter!) is complete without a slice of Key Lime Pie.
Pro Tip: Try it frozen or deep-fried for a unique twist!
Bonus Tips for Foodies Visiting PCB
Visit During Seafood Festival Season: The annual PCB Seafood & Music Festival in October is a great time to try fresh, local seafood.
Check Out Food Trucks: Finns Island Style Grub has one of the best taco and burrito food trucks in town!
Make Reservations: Popular restaurants like Firefly and Grand Marlin fill up quickly—book ahead!
From fresh Gulf seafood to comforting Southern classics, Panama City Beach is a foodie’s dream destination. Whether you're indulging in blackened redfish, savoring lobster rolls, or cooling down with a frozen Key Lime Pie, Signature Destinations is here to help you find the best dining experiences.
Book Your Dream Vacation with Signature Destinations
At Signature Destinations, we believe that where you stay matters. That’s why we offer luxury vacation rentals with unmatched comfort, personalized service, and exclusive perks you won’t find at a hotel.
Why Choose Signature Destinations?
- Hand-picked luxury properties tailored for every type of traveler.
- Personalized service to help you plan the perfect Panama City Beach getaway.
- Convenient locations, many with private beach access, pools, and ocean views.
- Insider recommendations to make your trip unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a group trip, let Signature Destinations take care of the details while you relax and enjoy paradise.
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