17 BEST Restaurants in Panama City Beach (Clams, Oysters And Burgers!)

If you find yourself in Panama City Beach, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to dining options. The city offers a wide variety of restaurants, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale seafood establishments.

To help you narrow down your choices, we have compiled a list of the 17 best restaurants in Panama City Beach. 

Whether you are in the mood for fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, or international cuisine, you're sure to find something to your taste on this list.

1. Local Steamer Seafood Market

Address: 14656 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 | Phone: (850) 866-9330

If you're looking for the best seafood in Panama City Beach, look no further than Local Steamer Seafood Market. This beloved local spot is known for its fresh, delicious seafood, and it's easy to see why it's a top choice for locals and visitors alike.

The menu features a variety of seafood items, including steamed seafood platters, the famous tuna dip, and a huge snow crab. Plus, since Local Steamer is located right across from Front Beach Road, you can enjoy your meal with a view of the beautiful beach.

Whether you're dining in or taking your food to go, you'll be impressed with the quality of the seafood at Local Steamer. So next time you're in Panama City Beach, be sure to stop by and enjoy a taste of the best the area has to offer.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Tuna dip

Cuisine: Seafood

2. Salty Sue’s

Address: 17501 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 | Phone: (850) 234-8485

This local institution has been serving the community for over 25 years, and they obviously have a passion for customer service and great food!

What stands out the most about Salty Sue's is the expansive menu that includes seafood, steak, BBQ, burgers, and sandwiches. However, you just can't go past their house specialties; Cajun-style shrimp and grits, the fried seafood platter, and shrimp Christo. 

Salty Sue's also has live entertainment, which makes this the perfect spot to make some lasting memories while you're in Panama City Beach!

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Cajun-style shrimp and grits

Cuisine: Seafood

Related Read: 20 Things To Do in Panama City Beach With Kids

3. The Wicked Wheel

Address: 10025 Hutchison Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 | Phone: (850) 588-7947

The Wicked Wheel is a great restaurant for those who want to enjoy delicious food and local craft beer. The restaurant offers smoked wings and fried chicken, which have been awarded 'Best Fried Chicken' in Bay County for seven years running.

 In addition, the interior of the restaurant is hip and family-friendly, making it a great place to eat for locals and tourists alike. While it isn't as close to the beach as some other restaurants, the stellar vibe and ambiance make it well worth a visit. 

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Fried Chicken

Cuisine: American

4. Pineapple Willy’s

Address: 9875 S Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408 | Phone: (850) 235-0928

Pineapple Willy’s is a renowned Panama City Beach eatery that has been serving fresh seafood to locals and visitors alike since 1984. The secret to their success and longevity as one of the best restaurants in town lies in their love for the community and their commitment to serving great food.

In addition to being a great place to pick up fresh fish, Pineapple Willy’s is also well-known for its ribs, killer beach views, cocktails, and live music. 

They don’t accept reservations, so be sure to get there early if you want to snag a table! And trust us – eating at Pineapple Willy’s is an experience you won’t want to miss out on during your Panama City Beach vacation.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Ribs

Cuisine: Seafood, BBQ

Related Read: 40 BEST Things To Do In Destin, Florida

5. Paula Deen's Family Kitchen

Address: 601 S Pier Park Dr Suite 103, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 | (850) 200-0825

If you are looking for a delicious and hearty meal while in Panama City Beach, be sure to swing by Paula Deen's Family Kitchen. This popular dining spot is just one of the six Paula Deen's Family Kitchen locations in the United States and offers up a unique blend of traditional southern comfort food with modern chic touches.

As soon as you step inside, you will be enveloped in the restaurant's warm and welcoming atmosphere. With its gorgeous wooden walls, tables, and chairs on one side and edgy chandeliers, booths with trendy designs, and TVs on the other, it's an absolute visual treat.

And, of course, the food here does not disappoint. Be sure to try Paula Deen's signature dish, the Chicken-Fried Pork Chop. The boneless, tender pork is coated in flour and fried to perfection, resulting in a crunchy and flavorful dish that will have your taste buds begging for more. Drizzled with Paula Deen's incredible gravy, this dish is not to be missed!

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Chicken-Fried Pork ChopCuisine: Seafood, Southern

6. The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House

Address: 16220 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 | Phone: (850) 233-1750

The Back Porch is one of those places that you will fall in love with at first bite. The food is simply incredible, and the atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or family.

The Amberjack Sandwich is certainly the star of the show. The fish is char-grilled to perfection, and the flavors will absolutely tantalize your taste buds. The lettuce and tomato add a touch of freshness, while the soft bread pulls it all together. It is an absolute must-try!

In addition to the amazing food, the Back Porch also boasts a truly unique atmosphere. It's like stepping into an Old West saloon with its beautiful wooden floors, walls, and ceiling. But the TVs and hanging lights add a touch of modernity that makes the place even more special.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Amberjack sandwich

Cuisine: Seafood

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7. Pompano Joe’s

Address: 16202 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 | Phone: (850) 233-1790

Pompano Joe's is one of the best places to eat in Panama City Beach for quality meals and views. The food is incredible, with Caribbean-style dishes served in a cozy space.

The burgers are some of the best you'll ever taste, and the view from the outdoor seating area is simply amazing.

If you are looking for a complete dining experience, head indoors to watch an exciting sports match after your meal. Pompano Joe's is a must-visit restaurant when you're in Panama City Beach!

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Voodoo cheeseburger

Cuisine: Seafood

8. Muy Wayne O’s

Address: 303 S Arnold Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413 | Phone: (850) 249-6830

Muy Wayne O's is a choice spot to enjoy some authentic Tex-Mex cuisine. The restaurant is brightly decorated and very inviting.

Their house specialty, the Carnevale Carnivore, a flour tortilla stuffed with smoked Texas beef brisket, grilled onions, and bell peppers, is definitely a must-try. The meat is cooked to perfection, and the flavors are just incredible.

 The cocktail selection is also very impressive and is worth trying, and they offer a respectable selection of beers.

If you're looking for a great Tex-Mex dining experience, Muy Wayne O's is definitely the place to go.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Carnevale Carnivore

Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Related Read: 20 Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Florida

9. Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Bar and Grill

Address: 1151 Bayview Ave, Panama City, FL 32401 | Phone: (850) 763-8427

If you're looking for a unique dining experience in Panama City Beach, look no further than Uncle Ernie's. This historic 1800s two-story home has been converted into a restaurant, and it's the perfect place to enjoy some of Florida's best outdoor eating.

When you step into Uncle Ernie's, you will instantly feel the warm and inviting atmosphere. It's an ideal local haunt to enjoy a meal with family or friends, and the outdoor seating is perfect for soaking up those Panama City Beach sunsets.

The menu at Uncle Ernie's features fresh seafood dishes like grilled grouper, grouper filets, and fried soft-shell crabs. There's also the famous pasta Spinachi, which is a must-try for anyone looking for a traditional family-style meal.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Pasta Spinachi

Cuisine: Seafood, American

10. Hunt’s Oyster Bar and Seafood

Address: 1150 Beck Ave, Panama City, FL 32401 | Phone: (850) 763-9645

Fresh seafood is the name of the game at Hunt's Oyster Bar and Seafood. This restaurant has been a Bay County favorite since 1966, and it's easy to see why.

The menu at Hunt's features all of your seafood favorites, from crab cakes and crab legs to gator tail and fried oysters. And if you're looking for something a little more traditional, they've got you covered with their po'boys.

But no matter what you order, you can be sure that it will be fresh and delicious. That's because Hunt's only uses the freshest seafood available. Whether you're in the mood for a light meal or a hearty feast, you will find what you're looking for at Hunt's Oyster Bar and Seafood.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Gator tail

Cuisine: Seafood

11. Big Mama’s on the Bayou

Address: 620 W Beach Dr, Panama City, FL 32401 | (850) 784-6009

Those searching for a truly Southern dining experience will find it at Big Mama's on the Bayou. This local favorite offers fixed menu items that are true comfort food staples of the American South. You can't get much closer to Southern cooking than this!

Depending on the day, you can enjoy chicken and dumplings, chicken fried steak, or other traditional sides like mac and cheese and field peas. And of course, no meal is complete without cornbread and sweet iced tea.

Big Mama's fried chicken or pork chops are hard to beat, but be sure to save room for dessert! You won't be disappointed.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $

Specialty Dish: Fried Chicken

Cuisine: Soul Food

12. Dat Cajun Place

Address: 2705 Thomas Dr, Panama City, FL 32408 |  (850) 588-5314

For a little taste of Louisiana in Florida, try out the beloved local spot, Dat Cajun Place. This restaurant serves up authentic Creole cuisine that will make you feel like you're right in the heart of New Orleans.

The blackened redfish is a must-try, and be sure to save room for dessert with their famous Mardi Gras King Cake.

With its friendly and inviting atmosphere, Dat Cajun Place is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Blackened redfish

Cuisine: Cajun/Creole

13. Longboards Restaurant & Grill

Address: 8746 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408 | Phone: (850) 249-4547

Longboards Restaurant and Grill offers a wide variety of food options, from tacos and pizza to burgers and sandwiches. Plus, the party doesn't even start until 9:00 PM – there's always something going down at Longboards.

But the real draw to this restaurant is the food. The thin crust pizza is some of the best you'll find in Panama City Beach, and the burgers are absolutely epically delicious. Gourmet tacos also grace the Longboard menu.

If you're looking for a great place to eat and enjoy an energetic night out in Panama City Beach, Florida, then Longboards is the place for you. With its delicious food options and party atmosphere, you're sure to have a great time at Longboards!

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Thin-crust pizza

Cuisine: Pizza, Burgers, Tacos

14. Sisters of the Sea Waterfront Bar and Grill

Address: 3901 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408 | Phone: (856) 637-6243

After a long day of exploring all that Panama City Beach has to offer, there's nothing better than unwinding with a delicious meal and a refreshing drink at Sisters of the Sea Waterfront Bar and Grill.

This casual seafood restaurant is located right on the water, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Grand Lagoon while you dine. Dock slips are available if you arrive by boat, and there's also a pool onsite if you want to take a dip.

The menu features appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, with something to suit every taste. For something truly special, try the Creole Shrimp and Grits or the Key West Mahi Mahi. The southern fried menu is also not to be missed, with delicious fish cuts and sides that will tantalize your taste buds.

Wash it all down with a refreshing cocktail, beer, or wine, and you'll be in dining heaven. So come on down to Sisters of the Sea Waterfront Bar and Grill for an unforgettable experience.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: Creole Shrimp and Grits

Cuisine: American, Seafood

15. The Grand Marlin

Address: 5323 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408 | Phone: (850) 249-1500

The Grand Marlin is one of the top seafood restaurants in Panama City Beach, Florida, and is known for its excellent seafood and famous chef. 

The atmosphere is upscale yet still casual and comfortable, with a Caribbean vibe that makes it perfect for a family dinner or a date night.

The menu features fresh, local seafood that is expertly prepared and served with a variety of sides and sauces. The Ahi Poke tower starter is a must-try, and the Grouper Piccata and Loved & Rubbed Salmon are both excellent main course options. Don't forget to visit the ship souvenir store before you leave

There is something for everyone at The Grand Marlin, and the food is always of the highest quality.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Cost: $$$

Specialty Dish: Grouper Piccata 

Cuisine: American, Seafood, Steakhouse

16. Schooners

Address: 5121 Gulf Dr, Panama City, FL 32408 | Phone: (850) 235-3555

For a true taste of the Gulf Coast cuisine, there's no better place to eat than Schooners in Panama City Beach. This huge restaurant overlooks the water and serves up some of the freshest seafood around.

The menu features all kinds of seafood classics, from oysters on the half-shell to shrimp po'boys. Plus, there's live music most nights, making it the perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day at the beach. 

Swimsuits are completely appropriate to arrive in! No need to go to your hotel and change.

So whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a night of fun and dancing, Schooners is the place to be.

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Cost: $$$

Specialty Dish: Grouper Piccata 

Cuisine: American, Seafood, Steakhouse

17. Tally-Ho Drive-In

Address: 1449 Harrison Ave, Panama City, FL 32401 | Phone: (850) 769-2436

This old-school burger joint has been serving up fresh burgers and fries to locals and tourists since 1949!

The staff at Tally-Ho are famous for their great service and friendliness. They take orders from guests in their cars and pass them directly to the cooks in the kitchen.

The food is affordably priced and delicious! The burgers are made with fresh, never-frozen beef, and the fries are cut fresh daily.

If you're craving a taste of nostalgia or just looking for a great burger joint, be sure to check out Tally-Ho Drive-In!

Yelp Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cost: $$

Specialty Dish: BurgersCuisine: American