Summer Fall 2022 Best of PC

Summer-Fall 2024 Guide to Our Panama City Top Twenty Restaurants

You can’t really go wrong with any of these local eats. Our summer-fall list was compiled not only based on the flavors, but also considers:

the overall experience (is it fun?)
availability of lighter foods for hot weather
indoor seating options with strong A/C

Bonus points if there are happy feral cats hanging around. Some of these are old friends, while others are the stuff of new summer love.

All of these picks and reflections are based on our team’s 100 percent unbiased, usually sober, uncompensated experiences.

Juan Taco

Holed up in a storefront at the bottom of that monstrosity called Laketown Wharf are arguably the best tacos on the panhandle. It’s small but you can head out the back for outdoor seating on that Epcot-like lake. The owner has a bit of an online following because he posts hilarious videos (making sangria in a trash can), but the pork tacos on Wednesday are out of this world. Great place to stop in for a quick bite and a bill that won’t make you cry. Juan Taco Facebook Page.

He must be making a mint but nobody here takes them selves too seriously. The wait can be a minute (you order and pickup at the counter), but you can spy on their cooking in the kitchen and the times goes quickly.

Great for a light meal that doesn't put you into a food coma. The carnitas are a superfood that lead to me getting hole in ones at Goofy Golf every time.

I never had tacos this good in New Mexico. Then again, I've never been to New Mexico. Fresh, light, but not a place you sit and hang out for a while.

Captain Anderson’s

There’s a strange excitement that builds in the air when you know it’s Captain Anderson’s night. This is the old-school favorite. Where you take your grandma. What bugs me is that they no longer serve Captain’s wafers – just saltines. We also miss the original mid-century modern style building. Still there’s a reason that the wait can stretch into the hours from time to time. If you have little fussy ones, get there very early or folks will get hangry. Consider splitting a plate as the portions tend to be large. Part of the real fun is going early and watching the fishing boats come in – check out the live cam. Tip: pick up a bottle of their perfect Greek dressing in their store. Menu and Website.

I'm not in love in this place as much as Sally Tomato is. But then I don't have all the childhood memories. With that said, my best meal here was right before closing. No wait and a perfect table with a view of the boats.

Captain Anderson's is sheer magic. Especially if you get seating in the old 1960s dining room. There's something funky going on with the rest of the decor. Skip the entrees in favor of She Crab soup, a nice Greek salad and a dessert.

Even though the wait is long, there's lots to see and do,. The food is not quite what it was during the heyday. Still, it's a strong tradition and must-do for tourists. Maybe a bit overpriced.

Amore Donuts

We are seriously glazy about this local hole-in-the-wall for our sweet tooths. It’s nothing fancy spancy, but the apple fritters are everything. Amore has an Italian lunch menu as well, but that’s not where they shine. Make sure you get there early to get the best picks from the fairly funky and creative selection of donuts and pastries. Seriously – they have donuts with cereal on top – like Fruit Loops! This is an easy one to drive by and miss it so you’ll need to make a morning date. Menu and Website.

Apple fritters are da bomb! I've never had better ones in my life. Forget about the other more famous places at least for pastries.

I'm a Krispy Kreme freak and also have some expertise in making donuts. These may not be the best in the world, but they are pretty remarkable. Try the unusual combinations, but put your money on the basics.

These honestly taste like a donut from the old glory days of Panama City Beach. So soft and fresh in the mornings that there's no need to heat them up. Would be better if they made two batches daily, putting out more around 3pm.

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Angelo’s

So maybe it isn’t quite what it was in the days of Reagan, Bush, and Clinton. On some days it’s a little tired, but there’s something mighty comforting and totally PCB about that dark, dusty 70s steakhouse feel. Basically everybody and their grandmamma has been here, but if you’re a newcomer it’s something you gotta do at least once. At least get your picture made beside the iconic Angus. And watch the fellows cooking over those hot flames through the window (from the outside). There’s really not many steak joints like this anymore. Avoid the syrupy daquiris unless you really want a souvenir glass (and we actually use it for a putt-putt trophy). Filet may be the best steak on the menu (sometimes it’s off the charts), but the burgers on the kids menu (when not overcooked) bring that bloody joy that only beef can accomplish. Website and Menu.

Problem is that I just don't feel like I REALLY went to PCB if I didn't go to Angelo's.

For anyone who complains about a bit of dust on all the random items on the cluttered walls or the dark environment, remember it's one of the last remnants of PCB in its heydey.

Watching them cook over the flames and the wood, I 'll have it medium rare if I could. Honestly fabulous when NOT overdone.

St. Andrew’s Bodega

A newcomer to our list and a strong contender for top three. Casual but upscale with an overwhelming feeling that it should be about 30 miles west on uber-hip 30a. At the same time, it helps to distinguish the St. Andrews area from the more run-of-the-mill touristy vibe of Panama City Beach proper. Lots of small plates as well as an exquisite wine selection and a top-of-the-line butcher shop. But the real hit are the daily specials from a chef who has trained all over the world. A romantic walk around the block after dinner here and you’ll see gaggles of well-fed, feral felines.

Website and menu

I really thought the ghost of Anthony Bourdain would walk in at any time. Feels like you've walked into a food fairy tale.

St. Andrew's has many of Bay County's finest, but none is as unique as the Bodega. Will make you forget your normal PCB triggers of raw oysters, fried shrimp, and smothered, covered grouper.

Fresher than my ninth-grade math teacher was.

Bella Roma Italian Grill

Never thought crossing over that Bay County line from Ebro would have us craving pasta and Chianti, but Bella Roma is that transformational. This one compares to what I would consider some of the regular-people greats, such as Joey’s Paesano on Mulberry Street in Little Italy or the old DaVinci’s in Columbus, Ohio. The older sibling in Pensacola has attracted quite a number of celebrities over the years, and their photos are the first thing you see at the hostess desk. Cozy spaces, Tuscan lighting, an occasional waitress who sings Italian songs to you are just the extras. The pastas are cooked with precision and the sauces, just oh my. It’s amore. Website and menu.

Red, red wine and red, red tomato sauce like it should be. So this is love.

As part-time residents, this is our first stop on every return. One of those places where you want to try something new, but don't want to miss out on what you had last time.

If pasta had feelings, this is where it would live.

Dat Cajun Place

Strange name for this newer establishment of so many conflicting elements. Many items have a Louisiana twist, but it’s the baked oysters that have a lot of folks making this a two-timer (nothing compares). Even when it seems packed, the wait moves fairly quickly. Not sure how this happens as it is set up like a sports bar, and alcohol flows like a river. It’s a thriving honky-tonk at heart so the food quality and deep flavors that seem to never fail continue to amaze. Website and menu.

If you only go out to eat once during a visit, this is the place. This is, of course, assuming that the food is the star attraction for you.

I've never left here with that empty feeling of having mindlessly spent too much money in a tourist trap. No regrets except why didn't I find out about this place sooner.

These are hands-down my favorite oysters in Bay County but wtf is up with this building design?

Oishi Thai

In spite of a rather dull (okay extremely dull) exterior on Front Beach, Oishi has it going on with fresh sushi. There’s usually not a wait and the hours of operation are more generous than some others. Most of the Thai cuisine, including the curries, are what one hopes for. One exception may be the coconut soup. If you’re just getting sushi, consider picking it up to go and driving a mile or two down 30A (near Thomas Donuts). Park and eat on the beach. Website and menu.https://www.oishithaisushi.com/

Sometimes it's gotten kind of late and I can't deal with the thought of getting in a line for an expensive meal. Oishi is always that delightful backup when I start to get hangry.

Every experience and morsel I've had here has been terrific. Seems to have as much to-go business as in-dining. Tell' em Johnny sent you for free ice in your drink.

Sushi and curries are top-notch. Just a truly stress-free experience. If building were jazzed up, it would likely draw more folks, but hey, more tuna for me.

Shore Dogs

Who really cares what a hot dog is actually made of when you’ve got a mind-blowing choice of toppings? Way down on Thomas Drive, Shore Dogs specializes in big dogs, but also has gyros, salads, ahi tuna, and a whole lotta beer. Maybe the best hangover food on the beach. Website and menu. Shore Dogs on Facebook.

There's only a few places in the world that have hot dogs worth paying good money for and this is not one of them. I realize I'm outvoted but cheese does not solve everything. Funland's are better to me and a lot less pricy.

Number of toppings available is nearly obscene. Fun little dive with lots of dog people. I mean people with dogs on a leash.

For those into hot dogs, this is where you live the dream. And a life without good hot dogs - I mean why eat at all?

Firefly

Among the local hangouts, chains, and tourists spots, Firefly is one of two or three restaurants that stands above the rest. This is fine dining with professionally-trained chefs and a fortune invested into a very enchanted interior. While the early bird specials of pre-pandemic days have disappeared, portions are often large enough to share. You’ll need a reservation. Website and menu.

Honestly one of the best things to happen to Panama City Beach in the last 20 years. It will cost you, though.

Decor is nice, service is professional, but there's too many other places I like to go. It's a bucket list destination for me. .

One of the best steaks I've ever had. And every girl I've taken there is blown away by both the place and her charming date. Sushi is top-notch as well.

Grand Marlin

This is the other of two exceptional fine dining experiences in Panama City. Decor is modern and juxtaposes the expansive windows revealing fishing boats and the bay just a few feet away. It seems that every morsel is prepared to creative perfection and you just don’t see any hints of carelessness or inconsistency here. Website and menu.

Consistently the best food in the county. And for one brief shining moment, you completely forget that you're at the Redneck Riviera. Grouper please.

Every dish, every time is nearly perfect. Somebody is doing their best every day. I like to sometimes get it to go, eat outside and watch the boats.

The best reason in PCB to own something than a t-shirt.

Alice’s on Bayview

This one is typically very under-recognized except by locals. Low-key but extremely charming environment in old St. Andrews. Patio seating in back is exceptionally romantic. Unique in that it doesn’t feel at all like a tourist place. It actually feels like home. Oh yeah, you’ll see lots of kitty cats if you just take a little stroll down the street or around the block. Website and menu.

One of my favorites on the list. Food is like I would make it on my best days and the establishment is super quaint. Feel like I could make a new best friend at the bar. Back patio is old-school romantic.

Lots of girl food in the same way that Chicken Salad is. She-Crab soup more than makes up for it.

Pretty much the opposite of everything you find at Pier Park. More of a middle-aged crowd and low-key respite from all the noisy fun. If I were having a progressive dinner in St. Andrews Bay, I'd head here for the dessert - creme brulee.

Hunt’s Oyster Bar

There’s plenty of decent oyster shacks in Panama City and Panama City Beach. What makes Hunt’s so unique is the fun inside. Feels like you’re at an Alabama-Ohio State game and Alabama is up by two touchdowns. Make a long wait at this historic joint part of your plan. Website and menu.

Good enough, but not convinced it's really worth the hype. I got two hours older just waiting to get in.

I eat here in rounds. It's beyond food and can't be viewed as "just going to dinner." Wait is long because you really don't want to leave.

It's one of those places where you can get in an argument with your family while you're in the long wait, but fall in love again once you're inside. Oysters aren't always the largest, but that's not how I judge an oyster.

Fatty’s Sandwich Shop

This is one of two sandwich places that made our list and is well-known for it’s fresh ingredients and friendly service (oh and those old rock albums on the wall). There’s a good reason that people have fallen in love with this place – only good things and great music happen here. We can ignore the atrocious 2002-looking website when we get to pick a hot sandwich named Midnight Toker. Website and menu.

It's damn good but all I wanna do is take a nap afterwards. And forget about having dinner after this gluttony.

A good sandwich is only as great as its bread. And this is homemade heaven and toasted to the X. One of the places I support so it will never, ever go away.

Nothing fancy. Just good food with super nice people running the show. Absolutely worth the drive and the occasional wait.

Nick’s Slice of Brooklyn

Really does feel like NYC has grabbed a little slice of real estate right across from the beach. Owner presence is typical and welcoming (in a northern kind of way). And then there’s that pizza. Oh yes. A bit of outdoor seating (in addition to inside) is superb for watching people cruise the Miracle Strip and is dog-friendly. Website and menu.

It's so authentic and Nick is so suave that I was waiting for Tony Soprano to waltz through the door.

PCB has an almost overwhelming number of pizza joints that come and go. This one reminds me a little of Mellow Mushroom in its traditional approach. Porch seating at night is pleasant and dog-friendly.

Oh Mama Mia! Heavy, meaty real Italian toppings on a thin crust. $$$$

Back Beach BBQ

What’s unusual about Back Beach is that its sides are as good as its damn fine barbecue. A smoked mac and cheese is a match made in heaven for the brisket. The whole joint feels young and trendy – in a good way. Nothing like seeing Gen-Z sweating over an outdoor smoker in 95 degree weather. Gotta respect. Website and menu.

So barbecue is my "thing" and this is in my top five ANYWHERE. Brisket is like it should be. Servings seem smaller than they did a couple of years back.

I've had so much BBQ at so many places over the years thatI I'm nearly over it. However, the sides are sooooo much better than average (especially mac & cheese) and the atmosphere is comfortable and hip.

I only go here when I'm super hungry because it's a real food party that you don't want to end.

C Level

While C Level just barely made our top twenty, it’s no secret that it would make the top five for many visitors to Panama City Beach. Lines form early and we think that going later (8 pm) is a better bet. A huge ordinary sign and a dull building exterior give no indication of the modern vibe and creative steaks and seafood that lie inside. A seat at the bar reveals that it is frequented by locals who share lively conversations with a bartender they all seem to know. Compared to many other favorites, the bathrooms and the entire establishment is impeccably clean. Standards are clearly high for the three sharp brothers who started this restaurant, focusing on local products, back in 2010. The cuisine is really very good overall, but it needs one or two signature items that make you truly crave it (the grits come very close). Website and menu.

Comfortable yet lively atmosphere suitable for both families and a girls' night out. Ahi tuna appetizer was nearly meal size and prepared with precision.

Prime rib can be hit or miss - always better than average but not quite where it could be. Love sitting at the bar and talking to new people. Get the homemade ranch dressing on your salad.

This place really shows why locally owned restaurants are usually a way better choice than chains. Warning - you will leave very, very full. Portions are generous.

Bayou Joe’s

This one makes the list because there’s not a bad seat in the house. Specializing in burgers, glorified bar food, and some specials that are occasionally rather creative. The claim to it’s bad-ass fame is the way that the mostly open-air shack is built right on top of the water, making it unique and worthy of a visit. Cool underwater lights allow for a surreal sort of fish-viewing experience. Waits are typically reasonable. Don’t forget your “I Love BJ’s” sticker. Website and menu.

Fun little dive literally on the water. Food is good enough, but the atmosphere is like no other.

Seems to have a lot of regulars and it's a regular stop for boaters who pull right up to the dock. Lots of fried fare, not much light. Go for the burgers and the view.

It's really just a very rustic, nearly rickety joint on the water with incredible views. Breakfast is better than lunch or dinner. Expected to see Ernest Hemingway and some six-toed cats.

Local Steamer Seafood Market

Very popular but small place where you can pick up fresh steamed shrimp, snow crab, royal red shrimp, crawfish, tuna dip and scallops by the pound or platter. No indoor seating, but makes a mighty fine spread to-go. Website and menu

It's counter service so it seems a little pricey. I like to pick up the seafood and skip the sides and just make them on my own.

Satisfies the most lustful of shrimp cravings. Even better if your FIL picks up the tab.

Liza’s Kitchen

Insanely fresh hole-in-the-wall on Thomas Drive that pulls in both locals and vacationers to its weekend brunch and everyday lunch. They even make their own mayo. Extensive menu focusing on sandwiches on foccacia and other fresh breads along with breakfast classics. Absolutely at or near top of list for breakfast. Website and menu.

Order the breakfast potatoes and ask for them to be topped with onions and peppers. They will accommodate any request with no fuss. So fresh I wondered if there were dairy cows out back.

This is everything about the Thomas Drive vibe. A whole 'nothing laid-back feeling than the West End or downtown. People tend to lean a bit on the hipster side.

In a struggling old shopping center, it's easy to miss this gem. Turkey, ham and such are roasted in-house and not your usual chain sandwich fixings. Something for everyone.

Saltwater Grill

Upscale dining for a special occasion or everyday dining for the top 5 percent. Known for prime rib, lobster tails, lobster bisque, desserts and consistency of highest quality. Owned by the same group that owns the fabulous La Crema in Rosemary Beach. Elegant environment with 25,000 gallon saltwater aquarium as centerpiece. Website and menu.

Another example of why the best dinners at the beach aren't on the beach at all.

Chef Joyner is near the top of the list to become my personal chef in my dreams.

Saltwater vs. Firefly vs. Grand Marlin. Don't make me take sides. I love the one I'm with.