Posted by Jessica

What Are the Best Dining Experiences in Destin?

From Hidden Gems to Waterfront Favorites

Finding the best dining in Destin means tasting the city the way locals do. Whether you're here for coastal sunshine or just in it for a great meal, Destin boasts a vibrant culinary scene packed with unique eats, great views, and Southern hospitality. Forget the national chains—Destin, Florida, is stacked with delicious surprises, from family-run breakfast joints to prized seafood shacks dotted along the water. Each visit uncovers new favorites, generations-old recipes, and stories that only local eateries can serve up.

If you're planning a foodie getaway or just searching for a truly memorable meal, let's take a look at Destin's standout dining destinations and see how to eat like a seasoned local.

Local Flavors and Southern Roots

Destin's dining scene brings together coastal heritage and classic Southern flavor. You'll find everything from cozy brunch hideouts and quirky pizza parlors to high-end seafood houses set on the bay. Most spots feature fresh Gulf seafood and locally sourced ingredients and you'll often taste recipes handed down through generations.

Expect everything from brunch worth waking up for to creative international cuisine, all served with a side of laid-back beach town energy.

7 Best Restaurants in Destin

Below are Destin's must-try restaurants. Each earning local fame for its flavors, atmosphere, and service. Whether you're craving a lively pub, a romantic Italian haven, or ultra-fresh dockside seafood, this list ensures you'll eat exceptionally well.

Restaurant	Cuisine Type	Standout Features	Why Locals Love It
McGuire's Irish Pub	Irish, Steakhouse	Hearty dishes, live music, fun decor	Generous portions, lively atmosphere, great service
Boshamps Oyster House	Seafood	Bay views, fresh Gulf fish	Sunset dining, signature local seafood dishes
Merlin's Pizza	Pizza, Italian	Creative specialty pies	Award-winning pies, gluten-free options
Mimmo's Ristorante Italiano	Italian	Brick oven pizza, cozy ambiance	Family-friendly, classic Italian favorites
Crackings	Brunch	Bananas Foster French Toast, omelets	Generous brunch, local seafood, quick service
Louisiana Lagniappe	Cajun, Seafood	Waterfront, Cajun flavors	Outdoor seating, excellent appetizers, sunsets
Dewey Destin Seafood	Seafood	Dockside, picnic tables, casual vibe	Authentic local seafood, big portions, dog-friendly

1. MCGUIRE'S IRISH PUB

McGuire's is far more than a classic Irish pub. Locals and visitors alike rave about the hearty plates and unforgettable atmosphere. Whether it's prime rib, boxties, or shepherd's pie, you'll leave full and happy. Add in live music, friendly staff, and the iconic dollar-bill décor that covers the ceilings, and you have one of Destin's most spirited dining experiences.

Why locals love it:

Generous portions of Irish and steakhouse favorites
Regular live music adds to the fun
Warm and efficient service
Historic, character-rich setting

2. BOSHAMPS OYSTER HOUSE

Boshamps offers laid-back seafood dining with panoramic bay views. Signature dishes like the Original Snapper Destin and Gulf Grouper fit the beachy location, and a knowledgeable staff guides you toward the best in-house specialties. Whether indoors or on the lively patio, every meal feels like a celebration.

What makes it special:

Stunning waterfront dining for sunset lovers
Signature Snapper Destin and pan-seared Gulf Grouper
Welcoming, family-style environment
Creative appetizers and extensive seafood menu

3. MERLIN'S PIZZA

Voted Best of the Emerald Coast for consecutive years, Merlin's Pizza is where locals satisfy their creative pizza cravings. The menu boasts crowd-pleasers like the Pepperoni Explosion along with unique pies such as lasagna and seafood pizza. Gluten-free and dairy-free options are available, and the staff are known to whip up special off-menu requests.

Highlights:

Award-winning pizzas with fresh ingredients
Creative specialty pies for adventurous eaters
Dietary-friendly options, including gluten-free crust
Friendly, attentive staff who go above and beyond

4. MIMMO'S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

For cozy Italian comfort, Mimmo's never disappoints. Indulge in rich dishes like Chicken Marsala, Fettuccine Alfredo, and the famed Lobster Ravioli. The brick oven pizzas add rustic charm, and the atmosphere is perfect for anything from date nights to large family dinners. Vegetarian options and outstanding hospitality round out the experience.

Top picks:

Flavor-rich brick oven and pasta dishes
Flexible for family meals and romantic evenings
Wide range of traditional and vegetarian-friendly choices
Attentive and welcoming service

5. CRACKINGS

Start your day at Crackings, the area's beloved brunch hub. Favorites include the Bananas Foster French Toast and Crab Cake Benedict—served in generous portions. Shrimp & Grits and the vibrant Ragin' Cajun Omelette are also unforgettable. Crackings makes brunch quick and easy with its online waitlist system, so you can spend less time waiting and more time enjoying.

Brunch standouts:

Sweet and savory choices for every brunch fan
Local seafood shines in signature dishes
Large, shareable servings
Convenient digital waitlist for peak times

6. LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE

For breathtaking views and Cajun-influenced flavors, Louisiana Lagniappe reigns supreme. The sunset over the water pairs perfectly with standout menu items like Lagniappe Stuffed Shrimp, Blackened Redfish, and those can't-miss appetizers—Lobster Rangoons and hush puppies. Expect warm, attentive service and generous helpings throughout.

Spotlight:

Outdoor seating with unbeatable sunset views
Cajun specialties and fresh Gulf seafood
Exceptional service from start to finish
Appetizer menu draws rave reviews from locals

7. DEWEY DESTIN SEAFOOD

Dewey Destin keeps it simple. Fresh fish, generous portions, and a laid-back picnic vibe right on the dock. Fried shrimp baskets and Southern sides like cheese grits and collard greens hit the spot, while the relaxed, no-frills setting puts the focus firmly on the food.

Why visit:

Dockside dining with classic Destin atmosphere
Quality seafood without tourist markup
Southern sides worth the visit alone
Dog-friendly spot for outdoor enthusiasts

Insider Tips for Dining in Destin

To truly eat like a local keep these tips in mind:

Avoid peak weekend brunch hours for a leisurely experience
Seek out off-menu specials by chatting with your server
Early evenings mean better sunset views and shorter waits
Venture beyond tourist traps to discover hidden gems
Don't rush. Savor the flavors, ask questions, and embrace the journey

Beyond the Table: The Full Destin Experience

Great meals in Destin are only half the adventure. Combining fantastic accommodations with a food-focused itinerary will have you living like a true Destin regular in no time.

Ready to make Destin your next destination? Book your stay with us at Travel Life Vacations and unlock the full local experience. Start planning your Emerald Coast adventure now and discover why so many travelers feel right at home with Travel Life Vacations.

Your Destin Dining FAQ

What types of cuisine are popular in Destin?

Expect a mix of Southern classics, Gulf seafood, Italian favorites, and Cajun spice.

When is the best time to dine like a local?

Early evenings and weekdays are best to beat the crowds and enjoy waterside views.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?

Many restaurants offer gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian selections.

With flavors as fresh as the morning tide and hospitality that always feels like home, Destin's local dining scene deserves a spot at the top of every travel itinerary. Eat well, explore widely, and make every meal a celebration on the Emerald Coast.