Top Restaurants on the Emerald Coast 2024: Family, Dog, Budget-Friendly, and Fine Dining Gems

Restaurant Blog

Are you exploring the Emerald Coast and wondering where to find the best restaurants in Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Navarre, and Destin? Look no further! Our comprehensive guide covers everything from family-friendly and dog-friendly spots to budget-friendly eateries and fine dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, our curated list ensures you’ll have a memorable dining experience.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Pensacola

The Fish House
Located on the Pensacola waterfront, The Fish House offers a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood and Southern specialties. With a kid-friendly atmosphere and a special menu for children, it’s perfect for family outings.

Hub Stacey’s
This casual spot is known for its hearty sandwiches and laid-back vibe. Hub Stacey’s outdoor seating and live music make it an excellent choice for families.

Pensacola Beach

Flounder’s Chowder House
A favorite among locals and tourists, Flounder’s offers a playful, beachside atmosphere with a pirate-themed playground for kids. Their menu includes fresh seafood, burgers, and delicious desserts.

Peg Leg Pete’s
Peg Leg Pete’s is a must-visit for families. This nautical-themed restaurant features a pirate ship playground and a wide variety of seafood dishes that both kids and adults will love.

Navarre

Alphy’s Catfish House
This local gem serves up Southern comfort food with a smile. Known for its catfish and hearty breakfasts, Alphy’s Catfish House provides a warm, welcoming environment for families.

Where Y’at Seafood Market & Restaurant
This casual seafood restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a kid-friendly menu. Known for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood, Where Y’at is a great spot for a family meal.

Destin

The Donut Hole
A beloved institution, The Donut Hole is famous for its mouth-watering donuts and hearty breakfast options. The casual, diner-style setting makes it a hit with families.

LuLu’s Destin
Owned by Lucy Buffett, LuLu’s is a fun, family-friendly spot with a sand play area for kids. The menu offers a variety of seafood and Southern favorites, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

Pensacola

Bodacious Brew
This downtown Pensacola café welcomes dogs on its patio. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a light bite while your furry friend relaxes by your side.

The Oar House
With a spacious outdoor area overlooking Bayou Chico, The Oar House is a great place to bring your dog. Their seafood-centric menu and relaxed atmosphere make it a local favorite.

Pensacola Beach

Red Fish Blue Fish
This waterfront restaurant offers a dog-friendly patio where you can enjoy stunning views of the bay. Red Fish Blue Fish serves fresh seafood and tropical drinks in a laid-back setting.

Navarre

TC’s Front Porch
A casual, open-air restaurant, TC’s Front Porch is perfect for dining with your dog. Their menu features seafood, burgers, and other American favorites.

Destin

Harry T’s Lighthouse
Located at HarborWalk Village, Harry T’s offers a pet-friendly patio with beautiful views of the harbor. Enjoy a diverse menu of seafood, steaks, and sandwiches while your dog enjoys the fresh air.

Dewey Destin’s Harborside
With outdoor seating that welcomes dogs, Dewey Destin’s Harborside provides a relaxed dining experience. Their menu includes fresh, locally sourced seafood and classic Southern dishes.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants

Pensacola

Cactus Cantina
Offering a variety of Mexican dishes at reasonable prices, Cactus Cantina is a great spot for budget-conscious diners. Their casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a popular choice.

Five Sisters Blues Café
This Southern-style restaurant is known for its delicious comfort food and live blues music. With affordable prices and generous portions, it’s a hit with locals and visitors alike.

Pensacola Beach

Paradise Bar & Grill
Situated right on the water, Paradise Bar & Grill offers great food at reasonable prices. Their casual, beachside setting and live music make it a fun place to dine.

Navarre

Juana’s Pagodas and Sailors’ Grill
Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner at affordable prices, Juana’s Pagodas and Sailors’ Grill provides a relaxed dining experience with views of the Santa Rosa Sound. This spot is known for its laid-back vibe and delicious menu.

Johnny Huston’s Grille and Bar
Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food, Johnny Huston’s Grille and Bar is a great budget-friendly option in Navarre. Their menu features a variety of American favorites, including burgers, sandwiches, and seafood.

Destin

Burrito del Sol
This local favorite offers fresh, flavorful Mexican food at budget-friendly prices. Their casual atmosphere and delicious burritos, tacos, and bowls are perfect for a quick meal.

Capriccio Café
An Italian café specializing in coffee, crepes, and sandwiches, Capriccio Café offers a cozy atmosphere and affordable prices.

Fine Dining Restaurants

Pensacola

Jackson’s Steakhouse
A staple in downtown Pensacola, Jackson’s Steakhouse offers an upscale dining experience with a menu featuring prime steaks and fresh seafood. Their elegant setting is perfect for special occasions.

Global Grill
This tapas restaurant provides a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights global flavors and fresh ingredients. The intimate atmosphere is ideal for a romantic dinner.

George’s Bistro
Offering a refined dining experience, George’s Bistro specializes in a mix of American and European dishes. With its elegant ambiance and meticulously crafted menu, it’s a top choice for fine dining in Pensacola.

Pensacola Beach

The Grand Marlin
Known for its stunning views and elegant dining room, The Grand Marlin offers a fine dining experience with a focus on fresh, local seafood. Their extensive wine list complements the exquisite menu.

Navarre

East Bay Crab House
While more casual than other fine dining establishments, East Bay Crab House offers a refined menu featuring fresh seafood and steaks. Their cozy, inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for a special night out.

Destin

Beach Walk Café
Located at the Henderson Park Inn, Beach Walk Café provides a luxurious dining experience with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Their menu features gourmet seafood and steak dishes, making it a top choice for fine dining in Destin.

Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood
As Destin’s only AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, Seagar’s offers an exceptional dining experience with a menu focused on prime steaks and fresh seafood. Their elegant setting and impeccable service ensure a memorable meal.

Explore the Culinary Delights of the Emerald Coast

Discover the best dining options the Emerald Coast has to offer. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly spot, a dog-friendly patio, a budget-friendly meal, or a fine dining experience, Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Navarre, and Destin have something for everyone.

Embark on your dining adventures and savor the diverse culinary gems of the Emerald Coast!

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Dana Fausey

Hey there! I’m Dana, founder of Follow Fausey Emerald Coast. Join our friendly community of Emerald Coast residents who stay updated weekly on the best events, restaurants, shopping, activities, and real estate in Navarre, Florida, and beyond. Discover the hottest hiking trails, biking routes, health and wellness spots, and new local favorites—all delivered straight to your inbox.

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