Schooners Lobster Festival returns to Panama City Beach with a week of lobster specials and a four-day stretch of live music October 15–18.

Restaurant specials run October 12–18, while the Lobster Beach Feast takes over the sand Saturday and Sunday with dishes including lobster mac and cheese, ceviche, pot pie, grilled tails and the Lobster Five Way Tray.

Live music features Alex Napier & Daybreak, Glory Days and The Modern Eldorados, with a giant sand sculpture adding to the beachfront festival atmosphere.

The event has no cover, Schooners opens daily at 11 a.m., and the restaurant does not accept reservations.

For dog lovers, going out to eat in Panama City Beach doesn’t necessarily mean leaving your best friend back at the condo. PCB has become a surprisingly dog-friendly dining destination, with dozens of restaurants offering outdoor seating where well-behaved pups are welcome.

In fact, pet-travel site BringFido currently lists 64 dog-friendly restaurants in Panama City Beach, while Visit Panama City Beach also promotes pet-friendly dining as part of the destination’s appeal. 

Beachfront Dining With Your Pup

A few of PCB’s best-known restaurants allow dogs in designated outdoor areas.

When you see the Barefoot name along Front Beach Road, it is easy to assume the two restaurants offer essentially the same experience. They do share plenty, fresh seafood, burgers, tropical drinks, Gulf views and live entertainment, but there are some important differences between Barefoot Hide-A-Way and Barefoot On The Beach. 

The easiest way to remember it? Hide-A-Way is the breakfast-and-beachfront-deck choice, while On The Beach adds a swimming pool and more of a poolside beach-party atmosphere.

Barefoot Hide-A-Way: Start With Breakfast

Located at 15405 Front Beach Road, Barefoot Hide-A-Way sits Gulf-front on the west end of Panama City Beach, not far from the Pier Park area. Its open-air deck gives diners a clear view of the water, making it an easy place to settle in with coffee in the morning or a frozen drink as the sun starts dropping.

Tucked inside Little Village in Historic St. Andrews, FINNS Island Style Grub is the kind of place that feels unmistakably Panama City: casual, colorful, outdoorsy and centered around fresh Gulf Coast flavor.

FINNS has built its reputation around a simple philosophy, keep it small, fresh and simple. The restaurant says it uses no fryers and no microwaves, relying instead on a grill and oven while sticking to its longtime motto, “Keeping It Fresh.”

For Panhandle Fork foodies looking for a relaxed meal with plenty of local character, the St. Andrews location offers more than just something to eat. You can grab tacos or a burrito, settle into the open-air surroundings at Little Village, browse locally made and fair-trade merchandise, listen to live music and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere all in one stop.

From a Panama City Beach Taco Stand to St. Andrews

There are plenty of places around Bay County to grab seafood, but few put you quite as close to the heart of Downtown Panama City’s waterfront as Harrison's Kitchen & Bar. Located at 5 Harrison Avenue, beside the Panama City Marina, Harrison’s combines Southern coastal cooking with sweeping views across St. Andrews Bay. 

The restaurant describes its style simply as “casual Southern coastal cuisine,” and that is a pretty good summary of what diners can expect: familiar Southern flavors mixed with seafood influences that feel right at home along Florida’s Gulf Coast. 

A Waterfront Setting Made for Panama City

Part of Harrison’s appeal begins before the food reaches the table. Large windows bring the bay into the dining room, while covered and open-air patio seating gives guests the opportunity to enjoy the breeze and waterfront scenery outside.

A longtime Panama City food-truck favorite is planting deeper roots in the community. Tri-R-Tips BBQ is celebrating a new chapter in September 2026 with a grand-opening weekend at No Name Lounge & Bayside Bistro in Historic Downtown Panama City.

The partnership brings Tri-R-Tips' Hawaiian-style barbecue together with one of downtown's most recognizable waterfront hangouts, giving diners a chance to enjoy big barbecue flavors, cold drinks, live music and views of St. Andrew Bay all in one stop.

According to Historic Downtown Panama City's September event schedule, Tri-R-Tips is serving at No Name Lounge & Bayside Bistro throughout the opening weekend, beginning Friday, September 4. Friday's festivities pair the barbecue with live music from Venture from 7 to 11 p.m., followed by Greenhead on Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m. Tri-R-Tips is also scheduled to serve Sunday, September 6. 

From Food Truck Favorite to Downtown Partnership

There’s a sweet little spot in Lynn Haven where breakfast cravings and dessert cravings can happily coexist. La Pera’s Sweet Shop, located at 529 Ohio Avenue, combines the nostalgia of an old-fashioned neighborhood ice cream shop with New York-style bagels, baked treats and over-the-top desserts.

The idea behind La Pera’s is about more than simply serving something sweet. The shop says its mission is to bring families together through timeless treats and create a place where kids, parents and grandparents can share the familiar tradition of going out for ice cream. Its playful patriotic theme carries throughout the brand with phrases like “Celebrating Life, Liberty, and The Pursuit of Ice Cream” and “United We Scoop.” 

Come for the Ice Cream — Stay for the Bagels

Ice cream may get top billing, but one of La Pera’s most interesting foodie twists is its New York bagel program.

There’s a new name flying over one of Downtown Panama City’s familiar nightlife addresses.

Grace O’Malley’s Irish Tavern has taken over the former House of Henry location at 461 Harrison Avenue, bringing a fresh Irish-pub identity to the downtown dining and entertainment scene. Florida business records show Grace O’Malley’s Irish Tavern LLC was officially established July 1, 2026, with 461 Harrison Avenue listed as its principal address. 

But longtime House of Henry customers shouldn’t expect the new tavern to simply be the old pub with a different sign. Grace O’Malley’s is developing its own personality around Irish food, cold pints, live music, comedy and pirate-inspired fun. Its official Facebook page describes the concept as a place for “amazing food, cold pints, live music and pirate Irish adventures.” 

From House of Henry to Grace O’Malley’s

The transition keeps an established downtown entertainment space active while giving it a completely different theme.

The smell of slow-smoked barbecue will be filling the air on Thomas Drive this Sunday as PCB Smoke Off brings together great food, friendly competition, live music and a cause close to the heart of the Panama City Beach community.

The charity barbecue competition takes place Sunday, August 23, 2026, at T’s on Thomas Bar & Kitchen, located at 8011 Thomas Drive, Suite A, Panama City Beach, FL 32408. The venue is known for combining food, drinks and entertainment, with live music regularly part of its lineup.

For barbecue fans, PCB Smoke Off offers a chance to see what happens when backyard cooks and experienced culinary competitors put their barbecue skills to the test, all while helping raise money for an organization that supports America’s wounded veterans.

BBQ With a Purpose

The competition is about more than bragging rights.

When the craving calls for fresh Gulf seafood, waterfront views and a dinner that feels a little more special than the average beach meal, The Grand Marlin Restaurant & Oyster Bar is one Panama City Beach destination worth putting on the foodie list.

Located along Grand Lagoon, The Grand Marlin combines an upscale coastal menu with a relaxed atmosphere inspired by boating, sport fishing and the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. The Panama City Beach restaurant opened in 2016 after the success of the original Grand Marlin in Pensacola Beach, which debuted in 2010.

What really drives the restaurant, though, is seafood.

The Grand Marlin says its menus are printed daily so the kitchen can take advantage of the freshest available catch. Under the direction of award-winning Corporate Chef and Partner Gregg McCarthy, the philosophy is simple: start with quality seafood and let fresh, local ingredients do the rest.

There’s a new reason for foodies at Tyndall Air Force Base to grab their chopsticks.

P.F. Chang’s To Go is officially opening at Tyndall AFB on Saturday, August 15, 2026, bringing the nationally recognized restaurant brand’s wok-fired flavors to the installation. The new location will be at 399 Mall Lane, Tyndall AFB, Florida, and is scheduled to operate daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For military members, families and other authorized patrons who already spend time on base, the arrival adds another recognizable dining option for lunch, an early dinner or a quick meal to take back to the office.

What Is P.F. Chang’s To Go?

Fishing, fresh seafood and waterfront dining come together this week as the 2nd Annual Grand Lagoon Billfish Classic takes over Panama City Beach from August 5–9, 2026.

Presented by the Gulf Coast Sportfishing Club, the tournament centers around Lighthouse Marina, where offshore fishing teams will register, depart for the Gulf and return for Saturday evening’s public weigh-in. The weekend concludes Sunday morning with an awards breakfast at The Deckhand Social, giving competitors another opportunity to celebrate along the Grand Lagoon waterfront.

Although the marina and restaurant are separate locations, they share the boating culture, coastal scenery and laid-back atmosphere that make the Grand Lagoon one of Panama City Beach’s most distinctive dining and recreation areas.

A Grand Lagoon Marina with Deep Local Roots

Historic Downtown Panama City is about to get a taste of New Orleans elegance.

Dat Cajun Pearl, a new upscale Cajun restaurant from the team behind Dat Cajun Place, is preparing to open on the ground floor of the historic Mashburn Building at 436 Harrison Avenue. The restaurant is currently expected to welcome its first guests in spring 2027.

While Dat Cajun Place is known for its relaxed atmosphere, hearty portions, live music and Louisiana favorites, Dat Cajun Pearl is being planned as a smaller and more refined dining experience. The concept will blend New Orleans charm with coastal sophistication, creating a destination for date nights, celebrations and leisurely dinners in the heart of downtown.

Early announcements describe the restaurant as an upscale Cajun experience featuring premium Gulf seafood and the bold Louisiana flavors that have helped make Dat Cajun Place a local favorite. A complete menu has not yet been released, but diners can likely expect the new restaurant to build upon the owners’ experience with oysters, seafood and Cajun cooking while presenting those flavors in a more polished setting.

Panama City diners can now climb aboard a new train-car style local restaurant, although no ticket is required.

Bayline Grill has opened at 4200 West 23rd Street inside the eye-catching green-yellow-and-white building designed to resemble a line of connected railroad cars. The unusual structure has sparked curiosity among drivers for months, and its railway-inspired appearance now has a fitting restaurant name to match.

With breakfast, lunch and dinner along with a full bar served throughout the week, Bayline Grill is bringing homestyle comfort food to one of Panama City’s most distinctive new dining spaces.

A Restaurant That Looks Like a Train

Before Bayline Grill served its first plate, the building was already becoming a local landmark.

Its long, narrow sections, rounded rooflines and rows of windows were designed to evoke the appearance of railroad passenger cars. The dark green exterior, white trim and covered entrance add to the vintage railway character, making the restaurant easy to spot along busy West 23rd Street.

If there’s one dish that captures the spirit of Florida’s Panhandle, it’s Smoked Tuna Dip. Found on menus from Pensacola to Panama City Beach, this creamy, smoky appetizer is more than food, it’s a tradition. Locals swear by it, visitors crave it, and no coastal gathering feels complete without a bowl on the table.

🌊 Why It’s a Panhandle Favorite 🍴

• * Fresh from the Gulf: Made with locally caught tuna, often smoked or grilled right on the dock.
• * Community roots: A staple at fish fries, beach bars, and backyard cookouts.
• * Versatile charm: Equally at home at a casual picnic or a polished dinner party.
• 
  
  

🐟 The Recipe: Smoked Tuna Dip

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked tuna (flaked)

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for a kick)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

Panama City may be best known for fresh Gulf seafood, but sometimes nothing satisfies quite like a thick ribeye, a tender filet or a perfectly seasoned New York strip sizzling from the grill.

To create this Panhandle Fork guide, we looked beyond restaurants that simply offer one steak entrée. We considered the quality and variety of cuts, cooking style, atmosphere, local reputation and the overall dining experience. Because Panama City proper has a limited number of dedicated steakhouses, this list covers the greater Panama City area, including Panama City Beach.

The result is a mixture of longtime local landmarks, independent restaurants, polished special-occasion destinations and familiar national steakhouses.

There is something almost sacred about eating a grouper sandwich along the Florida Gulf Coast.

Maybe it is the first crunch of a lightly fried fillet. Maybe it is the flaky white fish tucked inside a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a generous spoonful of tartar sauce. Or perhaps it is simply the setting: sunshine, salt air, and the sound of boats returning from the Gulf.

Whatever the reason, the grouper sandwich is more than another seafood entrée in Panama City Beach. It is a coastal tradition, and finding your favorite can become a delicious adventure.

What Makes a Great Grouper Sandwich?

A memorable grouper sandwich starts with the fish. Grouper has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture that holds up well whether it is fried, grilled, or blackened.

The fillet should be thick enough to remain moist inside but not so oversized that the sandwich becomes impossible to eat. When fried, the coating should be crisp and light rather than thick or greasy. A grilled fillet should carry a touch of char without becoming dry, while blackened grouper needs enough seasoning to create a flavorful crust without overpowering the fish.

The supporting ingredients matter, too. A soft but sturdy bun, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy tartar sauce can elevate the sandwich without distracting from its star attraction.

Most importantly, the fish, not the breading, sauce, or toppings, should remain the first thing you taste.

Historic St. Andrews offers a distinct, soulful vibe that captures the heart of Panama City.

The area around St. Andrews Marina delivers fresh seafood, relaxed energy, and stunning waterfront sunsets, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Top dining destinations include the marina-facing Alice’s on Bayview and the iconic Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill, both known for flavorful seafood and Southern-inspired plates.

Hunt’s Oyster Bar is a go-to for oysters and down-to-earth charm, while Captain’s Table Fish House delivers neighborhood fish house favorites.

For something more casual, FINNS Island Style Grub gives a taste of beach living with fresh tacos and bowls.

The vibrant Beck Avenue scene adds variety with pizza, burgers, craft drinks, and live music, offering something for every palate.

In St. Andrews, every meal comes wrapped in local flavor, waterfront views, and the laid-back spirit that defines Panama City.

Bay County is gearing up for an extra-special Fourth of July as America celebrates 250 years since the Declaration of Independence.

Locals and visitors can choose from vibrant celebrations across Panama City, Panama City Beach, and Lynn Haven. Waterfront festivals fill the air with live music, mouthwatering food vendors, and stunning fireworks shows over St. Andrews Bay, the Gulf, and Grand Lagoon.

Panama City’s Salute to Freedom Festival offers family-friendly fun, festival eats, and a lively downtown vibe. Those craving waterfront views and food truck fare can head to Papa Joe’s Bayside for Light Up the Bay, while PCB’s Star Spangled Spectacular promises an epic beachside fireworks display.

Lynn Haven keeps the hometown spirit alive with a morning parade and evening music at A.L. Kinsaul Park, making it a top pick for families.

Bay County’s Independence Day 2026 invites everyone to gather, eat well, and celebrate a historic milestone.

Tiny acts of kindness often create the greatest smiles at PruittHealth – Panama City.

On Friday, July 3rd, 2026, local pet owners are invited to join a Patriotic Pet Parade at 3212 Jenks Avenue, bringing their vaccinated, well-mannered pets to visit residents and staff.

Festivities kick off at 1:00 p.m. with hamburgers and hot dogs, followed by the lively pet parade inside at 2:00 p.m.

Pups and kitties dressed in red, white, and blue will compete for prizes, spreading Fourth of July cheer and heartfelt companionship.

For seniors, a gentle nuzzle or a wagging tail brings comfort and cherished memories — reminding everyone how much animals matter.

Events like this celebrate the healing bond between people and pets, and invite the community to connect, share joy, and shine a light on the simple power of love.

Hotel Indigo Panama City Marina offers a waterfront dining experience that blends stunning marina views with coastal cuisine right in the heart of downtown.

Tarpon’s, the main restaurant, serves Southern-inspired breakfasts and Gulf seafood-focused dinners in a relaxed yet refined setting overlooking St. Andrews Bay.

Standout dishes include grouper, shrimp remoulade, crab cakes, and creative breakfast classics, along with a cocktail menu that nods to local history.

Upstairs, Steam on 5 draws guests to its rooftop for sunset cocktails, craft drinks, and sharable small plates like ceviche, Gulf shrimp, and Wagyu sliders, all with panoramic bay views.

With live music and the salty air, both locals and visitors will find Hotel Indigo the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy the waterfront, and get a true taste of Panama City’s laid-back, coastal spirit.

Father’s Day in the Panama City area is about more than presents — it’s a heartfelt tribute to the dads who teach us, support us, and fill our days with laughter and love.

This weekend, locals can share sweet moments at community favorites like Donuts With Dad at the MLK Jr. Recreation Center and Living Word Church, or get creative together building birdhouses at the Dadurday workshop at The Drip Coffee Co.

Sunday brings the sizzle with the Father’s Day Cookout at Brine BBQ on the Bay, offering smoky barbecue, games, music, and waterfront views — perfect for a family feast.

No matter your plans, these celebrations promise connection and memories to savor — just the way Panama City likes it. Happy Father’s Day!

Pineapple Willy's isn't just a restaurant—it's a Panama City Beach institution. Since 1984, this beachfront landmark has been serving world-famous BBQ ribs, legendary daiquiris, and unforgettable dining experiences on the Gulf Coast.

Located right on the sand with stunning emerald water views, the restaurant's signature ribs have achieved near-mythical status. The expansive deck and Pier Bar offer panoramic sunset views that make every visit special.

What sets Pineapple Willy's apart is its staying power. For four decades, it's been where families celebrate, couples date, and friends reunite. The menu features fresh Gulf seafood, juicy burgers, and tropical drinks that perfectly complement the beach vibe.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or lifelong resident, Pineapple Willy's is more than dinner—it's a Panama City Beach rite of passage.

There's something special happening in downtown Panama City, and it smells delicious. After years of serving the community from their previous location, the team behind Somethin's Cookin' has brought their beloved restaurant, deli, and cooking school to the heart of downtown Panama City with a grand opening on January 14, 2025.

For owner Ted Holland, the move represents more than just a change of address. It's a commitment to being part of downtown's revitalization and a new chapter in a local legacy that has been feeding and teaching Panama City residents for years.

Walk through the doors of Somethin's Cookin' Downtown and you'll find yourself in a warm, inviting space that feels both familiar and fresh. The restaurant and deli serve up the same quality meals that locals have come to expect, but now with the added energy of being part of downtown's growing dining scene.

But what truly sets Somethin's Cookin' apart is their cooking school. This isn't just a restaurant—it's a place where culinary dreams come to life. The school offers classes for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced home cooks.

Chef Paul Stelatto, the culinary mastermind behind some of Bay County's most beloved restaurants, passed away Thursday, leaving behind a legacy that transformed Northwest Florida's dining scene. Known for his unwavering commitment to excellence and his distinctive French-Floridian cuisine, Stelatto shaped the palates of countless diners and mentored generations of local culinary talent.

Stelatto's influence extended far beyond the kitchen. He cooked at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London and had the honor of preparing meals for former President Barack Obama. Yet despite these prestigious accomplishments, he remained deeply rooted in the Panama City community, where he was known simply as Chef Paul.

His culinary journey in Bay County included leadership roles at Canopies, Firefly, and Pompanos—establishments that became synonymous with exceptional dining experiences under his guidance. Fellow chefs describe him as an "old-style French chef" who demanded consistency, maintained rigorous standards, and accepted no excuses.

Beyond his professional achievements, Stelatto was a devoted Miami Dolphins fan, a motorcycle enthusiast, and by all accounts, the best grandfather his family could have asked for. His passing marks the end of an era for Bay County's restaurant community, but his recipes, techniques, and the professionals he mentored ensure his influence will be felt for years to come.

Panama City Beach is firing up the smoker this summer as Back Beach Barbecue hosts its 9th Annual Hog Bash on Saturday, June 13, 2026. For locals who love good food, good music, and a good cause, this event has become a can't‑miss tradition, and this year promises to be the tastiest one yet.

From 12 PM to 4 PM, the air along Back Beach Road fills with the unmistakable aroma of slow‑smoked pork as pitmasters roast a whole hog the old‑school way. For a $20 donation, guests enjoy a hearty plate stacked with pulled pork, barbecue baked beans, coleslaw, and all the fixings that make Southern barbecue feel like home.

But Hog Bash isn't just about the food, it's a full afternoon of coastal‑casual fun with live music by Corey Hall, craft drinks from local partners, kids' face painting, and a Father's Day raffle. Plus, a portion of proceeds supports South Walton Academy, making every plate help fuel a great cause.

Whether you're a barbecue purist or just love a lively local gathering, Hog Bash delivers that perfect blend of flavor, music, and community spirit.

Panama City Beach's dining scene is about to get a little sweeter with the arrival of Sunrise Cafe & Bakery's second location, bringing authentic European-style baked goods and cafe culture to the World's Most Beautiful Beaches.

The popular bakery, known for its handcrafted pastries, artisan breads, and European-inspired menu, is expanding to meet growing demand from both locals and visitors. The new location marks an exciting milestone for the local business, which has built a loyal following since opening its first cafe.

What sets Sunrise Cafe & Bakery apart is its commitment to traditional European baking techniques and recipes. The cafe specializes in freshly baked croissants, danishes, artisan breads, and delicate pastries crafted with quality ingredients and time-honored methods.

The March opening timing is perfect for the spring tourist season, reflecting the growing sophistication of Panama City Beach's food scene and the increasing demand for quality, artisanal dining experiences.

There's a new gathering place in Panama City Beach where the beer flows freely, the music never stops, and every dollar tells a story. McGuire's Irish Pub has opened its doors at 17290 Front Beach Road, bringing an authentic slice of Celtic hospitality to the former Boar's Head site—and locals are already making it their home away from home.

Walking into McGuire's feels like stepping into a turn-of-the-century New York saloon. Dark wood dominates the space, from the handcrafted bar to the intimate booth seating. One of McGuire's most distinctive features is impossible to miss: the walls and ceilings are covered with thousands of signed dollar bills, a beloved tradition that invites patrons to leave their mark.

True to Irish pub tradition, live music is at the heart of McGuire's. Local musicians take the stage regularly, filling the space with everything from traditional Celtic folk tunes to contemporary covers. The menu features hearty pub classics alongside Celtic-inspired dishes, with Guinness naturally flowing freely.

Whether you're looking for a quiet pint after work, a lively weekend night with friends, or simply a unique spot to bring out-of-town guests, McGuire's offers an experience you won't find anywhere else on the beach. Don't forget to sign your dollar bill!

Firefly has long held a special place in Panama City Beach's dining scene, a restaurant where Gulf seafood, hand-cut steaks, and artfully prepared sushi come together beneath a warm, softly lit glow. Since opening in June 2007, it has become one of the area's most beloved destinations for date nights, anniversaries, and evenings meant to linger.

Tucked along 535 Richard Jackson Blvd., Firefly offers a dining room that feels polished and intimate without ever tipping into formality. The atmosphere is part of its charm: a quiet refuge in a beach town known for flip-flops and casual fare, where couples can settle into a slower, more romantic pace.

The menu reflects that same sense of balance. While Firefly is known for its locally caught Gulf seafood, it also features steaks cooked on an 1800-degree broiler, fresh sushi, and a range of dinner selections that appeal to both locals and visitors.

But Firefly's reputation isn't built on its menu alone. Guests often describe it as a casually elegant escape, complete with private dining options, takeout, and wheelchair accessibility. Its steady popularity for celebrations and special evenings speaks to the experience it consistently delivers.

When the Florida heat kicks in, nothing beats a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream. But where do the locals go when they are craving something sweet in Panama City Beach?

Skip the tourist traps and discover the hidden gems that PCB residents have been keeping to themselves. From handcrafted small-batch flavors to classic beachside scoops, these are the spots that have earned local loyalty.

Whether you are after a waffle cone piled high on a hot summer day or a cozy cup of gelato after dinner, this guide reveals where Panama City Beach locals really go to satisfy their ice cream cravings.