Copper Tap Grille
So many fun places in St. Andrews, but this relative newcomer reminds me of being in junior high when the most adorable new kid transferred to our school.
Song That Pops In My Head When I Enter: What a Wonderful World
Category: Things We’ve Eaten
If it got any more laid back in Muy Wayne O’s, it would almost be okay to break wind out loud. This chill Mexican dive is beloved by its regulars who clearly shun the establishment vibe of Pier Park.
Song That Pops In My Head When I Enter: Last Dance for Mary Jane
Runaway Island
One of few truly oceanfront restaurants in Panama City Beach, Runaway Island is more about the experience than the food. Nice choices on the menu but most food tends towards average. Early bird specials and live music help to make it a satisfying experience.
Song That Pops In My Head When I Enter: Dancing in the Moonlight
La Crema Tapas & Chocolate
Light but intense and sexy-as-hell small plates in hoity-toity village (Rosemary) west of Panama City Beach. Very different experience and the 15-minute drive down 30A is the unfettered stuff of 1980s PCB.
Song that Pops in My Head When I Enter: Don’t Know Why (Norah Jones)
Funland Snack Bar
Sometimes you just get weary of all the fancy-Nancy dining drama with the $200 bill and just wanna eat a hot dog in your flip flops. Enter Funland. It opened up in 1953 and is one of the few establishments left that saw your great-grandma in her finest days. There’s a large arcade with some old-school games, but the adjacent snack bar is where my heart is.
Song That Pops In My Head When I Enter: Hot Fun in the Summertime
Bella Roma Tuscan Grill
Bravely opened up in June 2020 (pandemic) to not only succeed but quickly built up lots of regulars and locals. Haven’t had Italian food this magical in decades. It’s good to have a reservation, but not always necessary.
Song That Pops In My Head When I Enter: Il Padrino (The Godfather)
Hunt’s Oyster Bar: Blast of the Past
Get there early or late, and prepare to wait. Hunt’s Oyster Bar in Old St. Andrews (Panama City) is insanely popular among both tourists and locals. Go for the oysters, stay for the fun.
Song That Pops In My Head When I Enter: Sweet Home Alabama
Firefly
When one first visits the renowned Firefly, she might wonder how “romantic” can begin to describe an establishment in a strip mall across from the beach. But just like a treasure box, opening the giant oak doors reveals a wonderland of seductive art, leather, and lights.