Seafood

It wouldn’t be unreasonable to estimate that at least 95 percent of visitors to Panama City and Panama City Beach eat seafood at least once during their stay. The array of choices is most impressive, with some establishments dating back more than half a century. 

Backwoods
14854 Bay View Circle, Panama City Beach
Sprawling, out-of-the way seafood restaurant with Old Florida vibe on the intercoastal. Emphasis on fried seafood, platters, but with grilled and healthy choices available.
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Bayou Joe’s Marina and Grill
112A East 3rd Court, Panama City
Literally sits on top of the water and frequented by low-key yachters and boaters (many are regulars) who pull right up to the dock. Rustic, unique experience with seafood baskets, sandwiches served in very relaxing, hang-loose environment.
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Captain Anderson’s
5551 North Lagoon, Panama City Beach
The original destination restaurant for more than 50 years in PCB. Modern expansion has changed mid-century amazingness but original dining room and view of incoming fishing boats remain. Fresh seafood market inside. Check out the webcam of arriving fishing boats. 
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Dat Cajun Place
2705 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach
Casual concept in rather ordinary building. Not unusual to see a whole row of pickup trucks. Lively atmosphere with array of raw and memorable baked oysters, shrimp and grits, gumbo, seafood and steaks with authentic nods to NOLA. Some outdoor seating.
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Dusty’s Oyster Bar
16450 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach
Nearly-always packed oyster bar in tight quarters across from beach. Many, many choices of freshly-prepared oysters and cold beverages. Dollar bills on every wall. Don’t dress up.
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Firefly
535 N. Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach
Enchanted dreamworld behind an ordinary storefront. Usually filled with beautiful people including an occasional celebrity. Takes itself and its cuisine most seriously. Reservation recommended.
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Grand Marlin
5323 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach
Upscale, swanky gourmet dining on St. Andrew’s Bay with a grand view. Famous for Grouper Piccata and desserts fit for a king. Reservations recommended.
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Hammerhead Fred’s
5323 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach
Beach-themed restaurant since 1995 that has a cliched 90s vibe and menu. Sibling to Runaway Island and Sharkey’s but not directly on beach.
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Pineapple Willie’s
5323 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach
Casual seafood and American favorite of 8th grade tourists.  Right on the beach, busy, loud and happening. Fussy little babies won’t even be noticed there’s so much going on. Frozen daquiris in souvenir cups.
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Runaway Island
5323 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach
Touristy spot with emphasis on beachside location and nightly sunsets. Similarities to Sharkey’s and Hammerhead Fred’s aren’t in your mind – they are all owned by the same folks. Of the three, Runaway Island feels dressier.

Schooner’s
5121 Gulf Drive, Panama City Beach
Somewhat historic beachfront mega-shack for dining, bar, live music, dancing. One of the more crowded and higher-rated prime destinations on the east end. 
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Sharkey’s
5323 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach
Decades-old landmark is easy to spot with its large shark outside and tiki top. Very laid back, the busy restaurant is a favorite for people-watching, eating oysters and drinking beer right on the beach. Feels like you could go barefooted here.

Shrimp Boat
1151 Bayview Drive, Panama City
It started out more than 70 years as a small restaurant, but now is the most imposing structure in St. Andrews with very large narrow and sprawling dining room. Typical seafood, oyster, and sandwich selections along with prime rib on weekends. 
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Shuckums
1151 Bayview Drive, Panama City
One of three of the best-known and competing oysters bars in PCB and Panama City. This one has a prime location on Front Beach Road and tend to attract far more tourists than locals. Seems acceptable to be a bit inebriated here.
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Uncle Ernie’s
1151 Bayview Drive, Panama City
While much of the old historic cottage on the bay didn’t survive Hurricane Michael, the rebuild maintains the unique character and legendary sunset views of beloved restaurant. Sits like the crown jewel of St. Andrew’s marina.
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