18 Places You’ll Want To Eat In Panama City, Florida

Sharing is caring!

Panama City, Florida, is not just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts; it’s also a paradise for food lovers. From chic waterfront eateries to cozy cafes tucked away in historic districts, the city’s dining scene offers a diverse array of culinary delights.

Here’s a curated list of restaurants that promise an unforgettable dining experience.

WHERE TO EAT IN PANAMA CITY FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND, DINNER

BEST RESTAURANTS FOR BREAKFAST

As always, please click on the name of the restaurant to confirm operating hours and that they are open when you’d like to visit.

The Press

For a laid-back dining experience, visit The Press in downtown Panama City. This cozy coffeehouse is well-known for its delightful Crepes, Coffee, and Wine Flights. Explore savory and sweet crepe options to go with your coffee. A fantastic spot for breakfast or lunch.
Type of Food: Café and Crepes and, of course, COFFEE
Ambiance: Cozy and Bohemian
Alcohol: Wine

Bagel Maker

Start your day right at Bagel Maker, a casual and fast paced spot that specializes in breakfast and bagels. Whether you’re craving a classic bacon, egg, and cheese bagel or a creative wiener in a bagel, Bagel Maker has you covered. kick-start your morning off here.

Type of Food: Breakfast and Bagels
Ambiance: Casual and Fast Paced
Alcohol: No Alcohol

Big Mama’s on the Bayou

Serving up classic diner cuisine with a generous side of hospitality. From fried chicken to shrimp and grits, the menu reflects the comforting flavors of the South. Outdoor dining available.

Type of Food: Comfort
Ambiance: Mom & Pop
Alcohol: No Alcohol

Bayou Joe’s Waterfront Dining

Known for its laid-back ambiance and casual charm, Bayou Joe’s Marina and Grill, located on Massalina Bayou, is the perfect spot for a relaxed waterfront meal. This hidden gem offers a menu filled with comfort food and delicious seafood. Bayou Joe’s provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a taste of Southern hospitality by the bay.

Type of Food: “Old Florida” style
Ambiance: Waterfront
Alcohol: Full Bar

BEST RESTAURANTS FOR LUNCH OR DINNER

I will say that most of the restaurants are interchangeable between lunch and dinner. However, some restaurant hours may vary and be closed at lunch or dinner time. Please click on the name of the restaurant to confirm operating hours.

El Weirdo Taco Pub

El Weirdo Taco offers a menu that caters to both the adventurous and the classic taco enthusiast. By the way, the ambiance perfectly complements its name. You have to check out the quirky decor, colorful murals, and the overall funky vibe. Offers indoor and outdoor dining. Located downtown Panama City.

Type of Food: Elevated Mexican Street Food
Ambiance: Fun
Alcohol: Full Bar

Thistle & Thorne

For a taste of Southern and Coastal cuisine in an atmosphere of Gothic Mid-Century elegance, Thistle & Thorne stands out. Located in the heart of downtown Panama City, this restaurant showcases the rich flavors with a modern twist.

The warm and inviting ambiance, coupled with a full bar offering handcrafted cocktails, sets the stage for a delightful dining experience. Don’t miss the skeleton in a glass case at the entrance or the speakeasy tattoo parlor in the back.

Type of Food: Southern and Coastal Cuisine
Ambiance: Gothic Mid-Century
Alcohol: Full Bar

Hotel Indigo Tarpons

Situated in the Hotel Indigo lobby you’ll find Tarpons. A waterfront restaurant where diners can savor coastal cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the bay. From fresh seafood to locally inspired dishes, the menu reflects the vibrant flavors of Panama City. The full bar adds a touch of sophistication to this culinary hotspot.

Type of Food: Southern Cuisine
Ambiance: Waterfront Chic/Hotel Lobby
Alcohol: Full Bar

Steam on 5

Steam on 5 is a rooftop restaurant and bar at Hotel Indigo, is a must-visit destination. This casual coastal eatery celebrates all things seafood with a seafood forward menu.  Guests can complement their meal with a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.

Type of Food: Seafood
Ambiance: Casual Coastal/Rooftop Bar
Alcohol: Full Bar

Lone Star Boil

Lone Star Boil is a casual eatery that brings the spirit of Louisiana to Panama City with its signature seafood boils. Diners can choose from an array of shellfish, including shrimp, crab, and crawfish, all seasoned to perfection. They also offer a selection of beer and wine.

Type of Food: Cajun Seafood Boil
Ambiance: Lively and Casual
Alcohol: Beer and Wine

St. Andrews Bodega

The newly opened St. Andrews Bodega has brought tapas to Historic St. Andrews. Share small plates while sipping on a selection of Spanish wines and beers.

Type of Food: Spanish Tapas
Ambiance: Bodega Cafe
Alcohol: Wine and Beer

Finns in Little Village

Discover Finns in Little Village near Historic St. Andrews. They are keeping it fresh serving tacos-burritos-quesadillas-ceviche & more. The chill vibe of Finn’s is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your meal. Live music on select days.

Type of Food: Caribbean, Mexican
Ambiance: Coastal and Charming
Alcohol: Full Bar

Holi Indian Grill

The restaurant offers rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine, from flavorful curries to aromatic biryanis. The colorful and lively ambiance, combined with their menu selection, adds to the overall immersive experience.

Type of Food: Indian Cuisine
Ambiance: Colorful International
Alcohol: Beer and Wine

Uncle Ernie’s

Uncle Ernie’s offers a waterfront dining experience with panoramic views of the Gulf. Known for its seafood and American cuisine, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch.

Type of Food: Seafood and American
Ambiance: Casual with Gulf Views
Alcohol: Full Bar

Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar

Located near Hotel Indigo, Harrison’s Kitchen & Bar is a waterfront restaurant offering a nice mix of menu items. Pair your meal with a selection from their craft beer or wine list for a well-rounded dining experience overlooking the bay. If the weather allows opt to sit outside for incredible sunset views.

Type of Food: American with a Southern Twist
Ambiance: Contemporary and Waterfront
Alcohol: Full Bar

House of Henry Irish Pub

House of Henry is considered one of  Florida’s most authentic Irish pub. With a friendly atmosphere here guests can enjoy traditional Irish pub food. Of course, there is a full bar to enhance your dining experience.

Type of Food: Traditional Irish Pub Cuisine
Ambiance: Pub
Alcohol: Full Bar

Places to Grab a Brew

The Taproom

Located in Historic St. Andrews this is the place for beer enthusiasts. The Taproom offers up an extensive selection of craft beers and a full bar in a vibrant and social atmosphere.

Type of Food: Food Trucks
Ambiance: Lively and Social
Alcohol: Craft Beer and Full Bar

History Class Brewing

Nestled in the heart of Panama City History Class Brewing combines crafted brews with a touch of local history. The brewpub’s menu features delicious pub fare. The casual and historic ambiance, adorned with nods to the city’s past, invites patrons to unwind and savor both the flavors of their brews and the charm of Panama City.

Type of Food: Brewpub Grub
Ambiance: Pub
Alcohol: Craft Beer