Destin’s Top 10 Seafood Restaurants According to Locals & What to Order
Destin, the crown jewel of Florida’s Emerald Coast, is renowned for its sugar-white beaches and emerald-green waters. But for food enthusiasts, it’s the seafood that truly makes this coastal town shine. With its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin offers some of the freshest catches you’ll find anywhere in the United States — no wonder it is known as the world’s luckiest fishing village!
From casual beachfront shacks to upscale dining establishments, you’ve got everything when it comes to seafood. Wondering where to head to enjoy it all? We’re here to your rescue. Here’s our guide to the 10 best seafood restaurants in Destin, according to locals.
Before we start, a little about us…
At RealJoy Vacations, we’ve been in the Destin hospitality game for years. Whether you’re looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we’ve got a wide range of options along the Emerald Coast. All our properties come with top-notch amenities to make your stay unforgettable.
We’re local experts and know the scene inside out. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Destin and the Emerald Coast. From the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides and reasons to consider living in Destin year-round, we’ve got you covered.
Now, get ready for some seafood bonanza!
1. Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer
Location: 210D Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 11 AM – 9 PM
Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer has quickly become a local favorite since its opening. This waterfront restaurant offers a perfect blend of casual dining and gourmet seafood. The menu features a variety of steamed and broiled options, with their signature dish being the Steamer Pot – a generous serving of snow crab, mussels, shrimp, and andouille sausage.
The restaurant’s interior is modern yet cozy, with large windows offering stunning views of the harbor. For a truly memorable experience, try to snag a table on the outdoor patio during sunset to soak in that Florida magic.
Oh, don’t miss their happy hour, which offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.
2. Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House
Location: 414 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 11 AM – 10 PM
Boshamps is the place where Southern hospitality meets coastal cuisine. This waterfront restaurant boasts panoramic views of the Destin Harbor, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or romantic dinner. The menu focuses on locally sourced, Southern-style seafood with a modern twist.
Their oyster bar is a vital highlight, offering a variety of preparations from raw to char-grilled. Wondering what to order? The “Oysters Boshamp” – topped with parmesan cheese, garlic butter, and bacon – is a must-try. For main courses, the grouper piccata and shrimp & grits are local favorites.
The restaurant also features two full bars and often hosts live music, creating a fun and lively atmosphere that’s a hit with both locals and visitors.
3. Dewey Destin’s Harborside
Location: 202 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 11 AM – 9 PM
Want a taste of Destin’s history? Then head to Dewey Destin’s Harborside. Said to be owned by the descendants of Destin’s founder, this restaurant offers a blend of traditional and contemporary seafood dishes. The setting is casual yet charming, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the harbor.
Their menu is always ready to surprise you. It changes daily based on the fresh catch, but staples include the grilled amberjack sandwich and the seafood gumbo.
Leave some room for dessert. Their key lime pie – it’s a local institution. You’ll thank us later.
Here too, you’ll find a full bar with a good selection of local beers and cocktails. Cheers!
4. The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House
Location: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 11 AM – 10 PM
A Destin landmark since 1974, The Back Porch offers a quintessential beach dining experience. Located right on the Gulf of Mexico, this casual eatery allows diners to enjoy their meals with their toes in the sand. The restaurant is known for its chargrilled amberjack and fresh Apalachicola oysters.
The atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch after a morning at the beach. Don’t forget to try their famous Seafood Nachos, a unique twist on the classic appetizer.
Extra tip: Here too, it’s a good idea to time your visit for sunset – the views are spectacular.
5. Harbor Docks
Location: 538 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 6 AM – 10 PM
Harbor Docks is a Destin institution, serving the community since 1979. This no-frills restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and sushi bar. What sets Harbor Docks apart is its own seafood market, ensuring that only the freshest catch makes it to your plate.
Are you an early bird? You can start your day with their famous breakfast, and it includes seafood of course – the crab cakes Benedict is a local favorite. For lunch or dinner, the grilled fish of the day is always a good choice. Sushi lovers will appreciate the extensive offerings at the sushi bar.
Harbor Docks also hosts an annual charity event, another reason it’s a beloved part of the Destin community.
6. Marina Cafe
Location: 404 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 5 PM – 10 PM
Feeling fancy? For a more upscale dining experience, Marina Cafe is the place to go. With its sophisticated ambiance and gourmet menu, it’s perfect for special occasions or a romantic night out. The restaurant offers panoramic views of the Destin Harbor, especially beautiful at sunset.
The menu features a blend of seafood and steak options. Their signature dish is the Grouper Vince – a pan-seared grouper fillet topped with jumbo lump crab meat and a beurre blanc sauce.
The wine list is extensive and well-curated, complementing the menu perfectly. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. Salut!
7. Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi
Location: 56 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 11 AM – 10 PM
Jackacuda’s offers a unique fusion of traditional seafood and sushi in a vibrant, modern setting. Located in the heart of HarborWalk Village, it’s a great spot for people-watching while enjoying innovative cuisine. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating with views of the harbor.
Their menu is diverse, ranging from classic seafood dishes to creative sushi rolls. The “Destin Roll” – featuring tempura grouper, cream cheese, and spicy mayo – is a local favorite. For those who prefer cooked seafood, the blackened mahi-mahi is excellent.
Local tip: their happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.
8. Louisiana Lagniappe
Location: 775 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 5 PM – 10 PM
Louisiana Lagniappe brings a taste of New Orleans to the Emerald Coast. This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that blends Creole flavors with fresh Gulf seafood. The atmosphere is elegant yet comfortable, making it ideal for a special night out.
Their signature dish is the grouper Pontchartrain – a pan-seared grouper fillet topped with lump crabmeat and a rich butter sauce. The seafood gumbo is also excellent, rivaling what you’d find in the French Quarter. For dessert, try the bread pudding with whiskey sauce.
Heads up: this place is popular, and reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season.
9. Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant (Original Location)
Location: 9 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 11 AM – 9 PM
What about an “Old Florida” experience? Head to the original Dewey Destin’s location. This no-frills seafood shack offers some of the freshest seafood in town in a casual, waterfront setting.
The menu is simple but excellent, focusing on fresh, local seafood prepared in traditional ways. The smoked tuna dip is a must-try appetizer, and the grilled amberjack sandwich is legendary. For a unique experience, try the “Crab Trap” – a mix of blue crab claws, snow crab legs, and peel-and-eat shrimp served in a net.
Did we say this is a vintage treat? The restaurant is cash-only and seating is primarily outdoors at picnic tables, adding to its charm.
10. AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
Location: 116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open daily 11 AM – 2 AM
Last but not least, AJ’s is more than just a restaurant – it’s a Destin landmark and entertainment complex. Located on the Destin Harbor, AJ’s offers a lively atmosphere with live music, multiple bars, and of course, great seafood. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, especially in the evenings.
The menu features a wide range of seafood options, from raw oysters to elaborate seafood platters. Their steam pots, filled with a variety of shellfish and sides, are perfect for sharing. For a unique experience, try the “Boom Boom Shrimp” – fried shrimp tossed in a spicy, creamy sauce.
AJ’s is also known for its cocktails, particularly the “Diesel Fuel” – a potent rum-based drink. The name says it all!
Destin’s Top Seafood Restaurants: Extra tips
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual beachside meal or an upscale dining experience, Destin’s seafood scene has something for everyone. From traditional Southern preparations to innovative fusion dishes, these restaurants showcase the best of what the Gulf has to offer.
Remember to make reservations where possible, especially during the peak summer season. And don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations – as per our experiences, the daily catch often yields the best meals.
With that said, enjoy your culinary journey through Destin’s vibrant seafood landscape!
Wondering where to stay in Destin, FL?
Thinking about traveling to Destin, FL yourself? Then stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront houses to luxurious resorts, we offer a wide selection not just in Destin but along the Emerald Coast. All our properties come with top-notch amenities that will make your experience unforgettable.
Book now with RealJoy Vacations and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast.