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.

There's something magical about the first chill of autumn creeping across the Florida Panhandle. The humidity finally breaks, the Gulf waters cool, and seafood lovers start counting down to one of the most anticipated seasons of the year: oyster season.

From September through April, the waters of Apalachicola Bay come alive with the harvest of some of the finest oysters in the world. These briny jewels have been a staple of Gulf Coast cuisine for generations, benefiting from a unique combination of fresh river water and salty Gulf tides that creates a distinctly briny, buttery, and clean flavor.

In this guide, we explore the best spots to enjoy fresh Apalachicola oysters in Panama City and Panama City Beach, including Shuckums Oyster Pub, Up the Creek Raw Bar, Hunt's Oyster Bar, and Captain's Table Fish House. Whether you prefer them raw on the half shell, steamed with garlic butter, or prepared as Oysters Rockefeller, there's a local spot ready to serve you the taste of Florida heritage.

The tradition of oyster harvesting in Apalachicola dates back over 150 years, with local oystermen still using tongs and small boats to harvest by hand. When you eat an Apalachicola oyster, you're not just having dinner—you're experiencing a piece of Florida heritage.

Panama City Beach has long been celebrated for its stunning Gulf waters and world-class seafood. But behind the scenes, a quiet revolution is taking place as local restaurants increasingly turn to sustainable seafood practices.

These eco-conscious establishments are partnering with fisheries that prioritize responsible harvesting methods, adjusting their menus based on seasonal availability, and working with organizations like Gulf Seafood Trace to verify their suppliers meet strict environmental standards.

The benefits extend far beyond environmental protection. By sourcing from responsible local fisheries, restaurants help maintain the livelihoods of Panama City Beach fishing families while guaranteeing diners receive the freshest possible seafood.

Discover how supporting sustainable seafood practices helps preserve the Gulf's marine ecosystem for future generations, and learn what to look for when dining out to make a positive impact.

When you're shopping at Pier Park, Panama City Beach's premier outdoor shopping destination, it's easy to work up an appetite. With over 900,000 square feet and more than 100 stores, restaurants, and entertainment spots, Pier Park has become the go-to place for shoppers and beachgoers looking for convenient dining options.

Whether you're looking for a quick caffeine boost at Starbucks, a casual meal at Five Guys or Panera Bread, or a full dining experience at Margaritaville with its tropical atmosphere and frozen margaritas, Pier Park offers something for every taste and budget.

Seafood lovers can enjoy fresh Gulf catches at The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House or Pompano Joe's Seafood House, both offering stunning views and Gulf-inspired dishes. For sports fans, Buffalo Wild Wings and Dave & Buster's provide the perfect spot to catch a game while enjoying classic American fare.

From family-friendly restaurants with kids' menus to outdoor seating perfect for people-watching, Pier Park's diverse dining scene makes it easy to find exactly what you're craving without ever leaving the complex. Here's everything you need to know about dining at Panama City Beach's favorite shopping destination.

Mother's Day in Panama City is all about slowing down, savoring the moment, and treating Mom to flavors she'll remember long after the day is done. Whether she loves waterfront dining, soulful Southern classics, or a lively brunch with music and mimosas, these five local favorites are rolling out something special just for her.

Harrison's Kitchen and Bar offers an exclusive brunch buffet in downtown, while Hotel Indigo serves up a prix-fixe bayfront menu by Chef Aldo with no rush and beautiful water views.

For a relaxed vibe, Little Village + FINNS in St. Andrews features $2 off mimosas all day and live music. Alice's on Bayview brings Southern comfort favorites right on the water, and Uncle Ernie's offers iconic bayfront dining that's been a local favorite for years.

From brunch buffets to sunset dinners, Panama City's culinary scene is showing up big for Mother's Day. The real magic is in the moments shared together.

Discover the culinary gems along Florida's Forgotten Coast on this epic Highway 98 road trip. From fresh Gulf seafood in Apalachicola to waterfront dining in Carrabelle, explore the flavors that make this coastal stretch a food lover's paradise.

Start your journey in Panama City Beach and work your way east, stopping at local favorites along the scenic route. Each town offers unique dining experiences that showcase the region's rich seafood heritage and Southern hospitality.

Whether you're craving oysters pulled fresh from Apalachicola Bay or casual beachfront cafes, this guide covers the must-visit restaurants that define Forgotten Coast cuisine.

Country music fans, get ready. Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is roaring back to Panama City Beach with a grand opening weekend that promises to be unforgettable.

The legendary Nashville honky-tonk is setting up shop at the former Spinnaker Beach Club location on Thomas Drive. The three-story, 7,200-square-foot venue will feature a bandstand, dance floor, swimming pool, and stunning beach views.

The grand opening weekend kicks off May 1st with Randy Houser and continues May 2nd with Jake Owen. Best of all? There's no cover charge — completely FREE.

Located at 8795 Thomas Drive, the new Tootsie's brings authentic Nashville-style country music to the beach daily.

Capt's Table Fish House has been a familiar name in Panama City's dining scene for nearly six decades. Established in 1967 by the Holman family, the restaurant has earned a loyal following for its fresh Gulf seafood, Southern cooking, and long-standing commitment to hospitality.

What began as a family seafood business has become a local institution, with the Panama City original remaining closely tied to the restaurant's identity. From the beginning, the Holman family has focused on serving quality seafood and delivering a consistent dining experience.

The menu reflects classic Gulf Coast dining. Guests can expect seafood favorites such as grouper, shrimp, oysters, and other regional specialties prepared in traditional styles that highlight the flavors of the Gulf.

A big part of the restaurant's appeal is its connection to local seafood traditions. Capt's Table has built its reputation on fresh ingredients, dependable preparation, and a menu that feels rooted in the coast rather than chasing trends.

Every visitor to Panama City Beach wants to know where to find the best breakfast. But here's a secret: the locals know spots that most tourists never discover. These are the places where PCB residents gather on weekend mornings, where the coffee is always hot, and the portions are generous.

If you want to eat like a local, skip the hotel breakfast buffets and chain restaurants. Instead, head to these beloved neighborhood spots that have earned the loyalty of Panama City Beach residents year after year.

Shuckums Oyster Pub & Raw Bar serves legendary shrimp and grits that keep locals coming back. Cupcake Beach Cafe offers charming beach vibes with fluffy pancakes and creative omelets. Harbor Docks provides scenic waterfront breakfast with views of the marina.

For upscale brunch, The Grand Marlin delivers elegant coastal-inspired dishes with beautiful water views. Other local favorites include Mi Casa Grill, Sunny Side Up, and The Breakfast Club.

For over a century, Captain Anderson's Restaurant has stood as a beacon of Gulf-to-table excellence in Panama City Beach. Since 1967, this family-owned institution has been serving fresh seafood caught daily from the waters just outside their door.

Few restaurants define Panama City Beach quite like Capt. Anderson's. A family-run landmark where fresh Gulf seafood, marina views, and warm hospitality have shaped local dining traditions for nearly 60 years.

Freshness is not just a promise here, it is the foundation. Capt. Anderson's has long been known for showcasing the Gulf's natural bounty with recipes that honor classic coastal cooking.

While the skies were filled with high-flying action during the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show weekend, the ground level had its own excitement — incredible food. Visitors enjoyed a variety of food trucks, quick bites, and local restaurants that kept everyone fueled throughout the day.

At Aaron Bessant Park, the STEM Zone was a hotspot for food truck favorites. Families could grab freshly grilled burgers, tacos, street-style eats, and sweet treats while exploring hands-on exhibits.

Near Russell-Fields City Pier, beachfront vendors offered convenient grab-and-go options so visitors never missed a second of the show. You could stay right on the sand and watch the Thunderbirds overhead.

For those seeking a full meal, Pier Park Drive delivered with local favorites like Pompano Joe's Seafood House, The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House, Margaritaville, and Dave & Buster's.

Food played a huge role in keeping the energy going all day long. Read on for our pro tips and the complete guide to dining during the air show weekend!

The Gulf Coast Salute Air Show returns to Panama City Beach from April 10–12, transforming the shoreline near Russell-Fields City Pier and Aaron Bessant Park into a vibrant festival of flight and flavor.

Attendees can indulge in classic Gulf Coast eats—like shrimp baskets, smoked sausages, and sweet treats—all while jets streak across the sky overhead.

Festivities kick off Friday night at Aaron Bessant Park with a lively block party, featuring high-energy performances by the USAFA Sabre Drill Team and Drum and Bugle Corps, plus a meet-and-greet with the performers.

This year, families and curious minds can dive into the all-new STEM Zone, packed with hands-on science fun from squishy circuits to touch tanks and LEGO race cars.

Whether you're a foodie, aviation fan, or family looking for fun, this weekend promises an unforgettable blend of community energy, local flavors, and flight.

Locals and visitors in Panama City Beach have spoken, sharing their must-try eating spots for an even better dining adventure.

Favorites like Dat Cajun Place stand out for their bold Cajun flavors, while waterfront legends such as Uncle Ernie’s and Pineapple Willy’s offer unforgettable seafood with a view.

McGuire’s Irish Pub is praised for its lively atmosphere and hearty classics.

Hunt’s Oyster Bar remains a go-to for no-frills local seafood, and C-Level is turning heads with its impressive menu and setting.

Other beloved picks include Firefly for upscale meals, The Grand Marlin for fresh seafood, and Boondocks, Runaway Island, and Schooners for laid-back coastal flair.

With so many cherished spots, it’s clear Panama City Beach’s food scene is as vibrant as its sunsets.

There is something special about seafood in Panama City and Bay County. It is not just about the recipes or the restaurants—it is about a tradition that starts on the water and ends on your plate within hours, not days.

Before most of us have had our first cup of coffee, local fishermen are already heading back to dock with their catch. The waters off Floridas Gulf Coast have been feeding families for generations, and that connection between the boat and the table remains strong in Panama City.

When fish goes from boat to kitchen in the same day, something magical happens. The texture stays firm. The flavor stays clean. That briny sweetness that makes Gulf seafood famous does not have time to fade.

Bay Countys seafood tradition is not just about taste—it is about supporting a way of life. When you order local catch at a Panama City restaurant, you are helping keep family fishing operations running.

Eating local seafood in Panama City is participating in a story that stretches back generations. Because here, great seafood is not just food—it is heritage served fresh daily.

Spring break brings a wave of excitement to Panama City Beach, spotlighting some of the Gulf’s most iconic dining spots in 2026.

Runaway Island dazzles guests with two levels of beachside dining, spectacular Gulf views, and standout dishes like Runaway Grouper and Seafood Mac & Cheese.

Schooners continues to charm with its laid-back atmosphere, nightly cannon salute, and the luscious Beach Party trio platter served right on the sand.

Pineapple Willy’s, a true local landmark perched over the water, invites families for its signature ribs, zesty Gator Bites, and famous fruity cocktails in collectible cups.

Sharky’s Beachfront, a PCB staple since 1986, offers live music, a kid-friendly playground, and fresh favorites like the Panhandle Seafood Platter.

Señor Frog’s infuses wild, interactive energy with playful décor, music, and a top pick: the Carnitas Plate.

Celebrate spring by sampling the unforgettable flavors of Panama City Beach’s culinary scene.

Discover the latest local restaurant features, dining recommendations, and culinary highlights from Panama City and the surrounding Bay County area.

House of Henry in downtown Panama City is gearing up for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day weekend packed with Irish flair, authentic eats, and live music.

From Friday, March 13 through St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, the beloved Irish pub will offer traditional fare like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips, alongside ice-cold pints of Guinness and specialty green beers.

Live entertainment, featuring local favorites and Irish tunes, will keep spirits high all weekend, with special performances scheduled throughout the day on March 17.

With its warm wooden decor and friendly staff, House of Henry has become a favorite gathering spot for locals craving authentic Irish hospitality and hearty pub favorites.

Whether you’re Irish year-round or just for the day, wear your green and join the festivities for a classic Emerald Coast celebration.

Panama City's culinary landscape is experiencing a wave of expansion as new restaurants continue to open their doors across Bay County and the Panhandle, offering residents and visitors an increasingly diverse array of dining options.

The growth reflects the area's ongoing economic development and increasing population, with restaurateurs recognizing the Emerald Coast's potential as a thriving dining destination. From casual eateries to upscale establishments, the variety of new openings showcases the region's evolving food culture.

Local restaurant owners report strong community support, with residents eager to explore new flavors and dining experiences. "The Panama City area has always had great seafood, but we're seeing more diversity in cuisine types than ever before," noted one local food industry insider.

The expansion comes at a time when Bay County residents have expressed strong interest in attracting both local independent restaurants and national chains. Recent community surveys have highlighted a desire for more dining variety, with everything from casual fast-food options to fine dining establishments topping wish lists.

Many of the new restaurants are taking advantage of Panama City's coastal location, incorporating fresh Gulf seafood and locally-sourced ingredients into their menus. This farm-to-table and ocean-to-table approach resonates with both tourists and locals seeking authentic Panhandle flavors.

The restaurant boom also brings economic benefits to the community, creating jobs and contributing to the area's reputation as a destination for food lovers. Industry experts predict continued growth in the coming months as more entrepreneurs recognize the opportunities in Panama City's expanding market.

For food enthusiasts, the expanding options mean more choices for everything from quick lunches to special occasion dining. Whether craving classic Southern comfort food, international flavors, or innovative coastal cuisine, Panama City's restaurant scene is offering something for every palate.

As new establishments continue to open, residents are encouraged to explore these dining destinations and support local businesses. Keep an eye on Panhandle Fork for the latest updates on restaurant openings, reviews, and the ever-evolving food scene in Panama City, Bay County and the Panhandle region.

What new restaurants have you tried recently? Share your experiences and recommendations with the Panhandle Fork community!

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is set to bring new energy to Panama City Beach, launching a major hiring event on February 15th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Captain Anderson’s Event Center, 5550 N Lagoon Dr #2.

The iconic venue aims to fill around 200 roles ahead of its grand opening at 8795 Thomas Drive, the former site of Spinnaker Beach Club.

This three-story, 7,200-square-foot space, now revitalized after Hurricane Michael, promises live Nashville-style country music, a dance floor, pool, and panoramic beach views.

Tootsie’s will be family-friendly until 8 p.m., then strictly 21+ with ID, offering no cover except for special events.

Guests can expect a varied menu of seafood, burgers, wings, and a signature country boil, with full service most days until 9 p.m.

The opening is targeted for late February 2026, with potential performances by country stars like Luke Bryan and Riley Green.

This hiring drive marks a unique chance to join a dynamic new hub for music and fun in the local community.

Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant in Miramar Beach will close permanently on October 26 after eight years of serving the community.

Located at 435 Grand Boulevard, the beloved restaurant has been known for its creative Gulf seafood and New Orleans-inspired Creole dishes, earning a devoted following among locals and visitors.

Chef Emeril Lagasse shared his gratitude with heartfelt thanks to guests and staff, calling Coastal a labor of love and expressing how much the community has meant to him.

The menu, featuring favorites like BBQ Shrimp, the Coastal Fried Seafood Platter, and Fresh Catch of the Day, has made the spot a staple for memorable meals and special occasions.

As news of the closure spreads, patrons are encouraged to savor a final meal and celebrate the experiences that have defined Emeril’s Coastal as a cherished local gathering place.

Bay County residents are voicing a strong appetite for new dining options, spotlighting several national chains they'd love to see locally.

A recent community poll drew 224 participants, revealing Cheesecake Factory as the top pick with 31% of votes, followed by Macaroni Grill and P.F. Chang's.

Other popular choices included Raising Cane's, Tim Hortons, and Shake Shack, underlining a hunger for variety.

Beyond the poll, locals suggested dozens of favorites—like In-N-Out Burger and Mellow Mushroom—highlighting a desire for even more diversity in their food scene.

Recent restaurant openings aim to meet that demand.

McGuire’s Irish Pub is under construction and slated to open early next year, while a new Costa Family McDonald’s recently opened to much fanfare on Highway 390.

Bay County’s dining future looks promising as the community’s tastes evolve and new establishments settle in.