Our Favorite Restaurants in Destin, Florida

Dig into Destin's most delicious spots, from Southern-style breakfasts and fresh salads to sizzling seafood dinners on the water.

Across Florida's Emerald Coast, few things define a great getaway like good food. And in Destin, that means everything from casual beach cafés to refined dinner spots with Gulf views.

TL;DR — Our Favorite Restaurants in Destin, FL

1. Maple Street Biscuit Company – Fluffy biscuit sandwiches and sweet cinnamon rolls that locals swear by.
2. First Watch – Bright, modern brunch spot with fresh juices and hearty breakfast classics.
3. Chanticleer Eatery – Cozy outdoor patio and colorful salads that taste as good as they look.
4. Everkrisp – Build-your-own salad bar with local greens and organic toppings.
5. Burrito Del Sol – Beachy Mexican joint with customizable burritos, tacos, and bowls.
6. Real Thai Fusion – Vibrant Thai flavors that win over even non-Thai food fans.
7. Cantina Laredo – Polished Mexican dining with sunset patio seating and top-notch margaritas.
8. The Craft Bar – Trendy pub with 30 beers on tap, gourmet burgers, and laid-back vibes.
9. VKI Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar – Lively hibachi tables and fresh sushi rolls with signature ginger dressing.
10. Surf Hut – Beachfront dining with toes-in-the-sand views and a relaxed crowd.
11. Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar – Two stories of ocean views, fresh oysters, and Southern-style charm.
12. Harbor Docks – Destin classic serving fresh-caught seafood right on the harbor.
13. Lulu's – Family-friendly bayfront hangout with live music and its own sandy beach.

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In this blog post, we'll reveal our picks for the best restaurants in Destin, FL.

Grab a fork — here's where to start.

1. MAPLE STREET BISCUIT COMPANY

Biscuit sandwiches worth waking up for.

If you're looking for a cozy breakfast that feels homemade, Maple Street Biscuit Company hits the mark. Known for its fluffy biscuit sandwiches and indulgent biscuit cinnamon rolls, it's the kind of place where breakfast easily turns into brunch. Fun fact: locals were thrilled when this regional favorite finally opened in Miramar Beach.

What Locals Love About It

• Unique biscuit sandwiches and cinnamon rolls.
• Friendly atmosphere and fast service.
• A great stop before a beach day.
  
  

2. FIRST WATCH

Fresh, bright, and perfect for any crowd.

First Watch serves wholesome breakfast and lunch dishes that please everyone in the group. Think freshly made juices, hearty omelets, and lunch options like sandwiches and salads. With locations in Destin and Santa Rosa Beach, it's a reliable favorite that's easy to return to again and again.

What Locals Love About It

• Family-friendly and consistent quality.
• Fresh juices and healthy menu options.
• Serves both breakfast and lunch all day.

3. CHANTICLEER EATERY

Cozy vibes and colorful salads.

Tucked near a row of charming boutiques, Chanticleer Eatery combines local flavor with a laid-back coastal feel. The outdoor patio is perfect for relaxing, and the food — especially their huge, vibrant salads — is always a hit.

What Locals Love About It

• Outdoor patio surrounded by local shops.
• Massive, beautifully presented salads.
• Friendly service in a warm, casual setting.
  
  

4. EVERKRISP

Locally grown, freshly made salads.

For something light and refreshing, head to Everkrisp — the area's go-to salad bar. With locally sourced and organic ingredients whenever possible, you can build your own salad or choose from their signature creations. It's proof that healthy eating in Destin can still be flavorful.

What Locals Love About It

• Locally sourced produce and seasonal ingredients.
• Endless topping combinations for custom salads.
• Quick, fresh, and satisfying for lunch on the go.
  
  

5. BURRITO DEL SOL

Mexican favorites with a local twist.

Burrito Del Sol brings a beachy spin to Mexican food with its build-your-own burritos, tacos, and bowls. It's casual, colorful, and perfect for grabbing a quick meal before hitting the beach.

What Locals Love About It

• Build-your-own burritos, tacos, and bowls.
• Fresh, flavorful ingredients.
• Laid-back, local atmosphere.
  
  

6. REAL THAI FUSION

The restaurant that converts Thai-food skeptics.

Even if you don't think you're a fan of Thai cuisine, Real Thai Fusion might change your mind. The flavors are vibrant and balanced, and every dish feels freshly prepared. The owners are friendly and welcoming — many locals are on a first-name basis with them.

What Locals Love About It

• Authentic flavors and generous portions.
• Friendly owners who make guests feel at home.
• Consistent local favorite for dine-in or takeout.
  
  

7. CANTINA LAREDO

Modern Mexican with a touch of sophistication.

At Cantina Laredo, you'll find refined Mexican cuisine in a stylish atmosphere. It's ideal for a date night or a relaxed evening with friends, and the outdoor patio is perfect for a sunset dinner.

What Locals Love About It

• Upscale yet relaxed dining setting.
• Fresh guacamole and flavorful margaritas.
• Excellent service and ambiance.

8. THE CRAFT BAR

Where pub food meets a modern edge.

With 30 beers on tap and a menu that ranges from gourmet burgers to charcuterie boards, The Craft Bar is a mix of casual fun and culinary flair. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring.

What Locals Love About It

• Rotating beer selection with craft and local brews.
• Burger nights and hearty pub dishes.
• Two locations: Destin and Miramar Beach.

9. VKI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI

A crowd-pleaser for sushi and hibachi lovers.

VKI is known for its lively hibachi experience and fresh sushi rolls. The in-house ginger dressing is so good that regulars often buy it by the tub to take home.

What Locals Love About It

• Entertaining hibachi dinners.
• Fresh sushi and sashimi variety.
• Signature house ginger dressing.
  
  

10. SURF HUT

Beachfront dining with sunset views.

For a true toes-in-the-sand experience, Surf Hut delivers. Overlooking the Gulf, it's a fun, casual restaurant where you can enjoy seafood or burgers while watching the waves roll in.

What Locals Love About It

• Oceanfront setting with outdoor seating.
• Kid-friendly and great for groups.
• Fantastic spot to catch the sunset.

11. SHUNK GULLEY OYSTER BAR

Gulf views and Southern coastal charm.

Located across from the beach, Shunk Gulley offers two stories of ocean views and Southern hospitality. The menu blends seafood favorites with inventive dishes like their famous sweet tea chicken sandwich.

What Locals Love About It

• Breezy beachside atmosphere.
• Fresh oysters and coastal dishes.
• Outdoor dining and live music.
  
  

12. HARBOR DOCKS

An iconic Destin classic on the harbor.

A local legend, Harbor Docks sits right on the Destin Harbor — where fishing boats bring in their daily catch. It's one of those rare spots where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner with an authentic sense of place.

What Locals Love About It

• Fresh, locally caught seafood.
• Casual, welcoming vibe on the harbor.
• Great breakfast menu in addition to dinner options.
  
  

13. LULU'S DESTIN

Fun, family-friendly, and right on the bay.

Lulu's is where you go for good food and pure fun. The waterfront location features its own little beach area, live music, and space for kids to play. Many guests even arrive by boat or jet ski — the Destin way.

What Locals Love About It

• Bayfront setting with its own sandy beach.
• Live music and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Perfect for groups and casual dining.
  
  

FAQ: Dining Out in Destin, Florida

What are some of the best restaurants in Destin, FL?

Destin is packed with great dining options, from upscale to ultra-casual. Local favorites include Harbor Docks for fresh seafood, The Craft Bar for elevated pub fare, and Maple Street Biscuit Company for hearty Southern breakfasts. Each offers a genuine taste of the Emerald Coast.

Where can I find locals' favorite restaurants in Destin, FL?

If you want to eat where locals do, try Real Thai Fusion for authentic Thai cuisine, Burrito Del Sol for beachside Mexican, and Chanticleer Eatery for cozy, comfort-food vibes. These aren't just tourist spots — they're part of everyday local life.

What are the best restaurants in Destin, FL, on the water?

For waterfront dining, you can't beat Surf Hut, Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, Harbor Docks, and Lulu's. Each offers open-air seating, gorgeous Gulf or bay views, and menus packed with fresh seafood. Time your visit around sunset for the full experience.

Is there fine dining in Destin, FL?

Yes, Destin has its share of fine dining, from Cantina Laredo's polished Mexican dishes to seafood and steakhouse options scattered across the harbor. Dress is typically resort casual, but the food and service are top-notch.

What are the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Destin, FL?

If you're after hidden gems, Everkrisp (for salads), Real Thai Fusion, and Burrito Del Sol deliver big on flavor without any pretense. They're small, local, and consistently loved by residents.

Can I find fast food in Destin, FL?

Definitely. You'll find familiar fast-food chains throughout the area — especially along Highway 98 — but locals often opt for quicker, fresher alternatives like Everkrisp or Maple Street Biscuit Company for breakfast on the go.

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