The top restaurants in Destin, Florida – and a few to avoid

Looking for the best restaurants in Destin for your visit? As a local, I’m happy to share some of my must-visit restaurants, coffee shops and cafes in Destin, Florida.

I’ve been living in the Emerald Coast for five years now – and our restaurant scene definitely surpassed my expectations. Across the region—from Fort Walton Beach to scenic Highway 30A—you’ll find plenty of fantastic restaurants worth adding to your list.

To be clear, I don’t claim to have a refined palate or a big dining budget. These are the tried-and-true spots my husband and I return to regularly—places with consistently good food, friendly service, and a laid-back atmosphere that never feels too fussy.

Destin restaurants for breakfast, brunch, and coffee

Brunch is quite popular in Destin, and there are many different breakfast and brunch restaurants in the area. Whether you’re staying in Destin or 30A, you’ll find plenty of options to start your day. Before heading the beach, swing by one of my favorite places for breakfast or coffee.

1. Cafe Destin (Destin): Our go-to spot in Destin for breakfast and brunch. Decently priced food with an expansive menu is met with quick service and excellent coffee.
   Even in the peak summer months, you shouldn’t have to wait too long for your food, which is a stark contrast from other brunch places in the area. I love the biscuit bacon sandwich and the Nutella strawberry pancakes. 
2. Black Bear Coffee Co (Sandestin and 30A): There are multiple locations for this Parisian-style cafe, but we frequent the Grand Boulevard restaurant. From freshly-made pastries to a lox bagel board, this is a great place for grab-and-go breakfast. The coffee is fantastic too.
3. Scratch Biscuit Kitchen (30A): If you’re venturing to 30A, swing by this locally-owned eatery for some of the best homemade biscuits and breakfast options in Destin. The service is fantastic and they’ve recently expanded their hours to include dinner. We loved the buttermilk chicken tenders, which were perfectly fried and tender! 
4. Crackings (Destin): For hearty, Southern comfort foods, you’ll want to stop by Crackings for breakfast. The menu is expansive with a little something for everyone, including classics like Shrimp & Grits. This is a favorite among our visitors!
5. Beignets and Brew (Destin, FWB and Santa Rosa Beach): One of the newer breakfast spots in the area is this adorable cafe that serves authentically-made beignets. For a sweet start to your morning, swing by for some powdery, fluffy pillowy donuts or coffee creation. I love the cookie butter latte.

Avoid: The Pancakery is overhyped and the wait time is always outrageously long.

Destin restaurants for lunch and dinner

Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or sitting down for a relaxed dinner by the beach, Destin’s food scene has something for everyone. These are my go-to places for good eats without breaking the bank—plus, a few of them have happy hour deals you won’t want to miss.

1. The Bay (Santa Rosa Beach) – Our all-time, without a doubt favorite restaurant is located on the Choctawhatchee Bay. The Bay has unbeatable views of the water, half-off cocktails during happy hour from 3-5pm, and a fantastic menu selection.
   
   My husband’s go-to is the sushi—especially the Russell Mania roll—and we’re both obsessed with the Ellsworth Cheese Curds. Lately, my favorite entrées have been the new blackened chicken alfredo or the tangy chicken sandwich paired with the miso salad. And whatever you do, don’t skip the key lime pie—it’s easily some of the best in the area.
2. Pazzo Italian (Destin and Santa Rosa Beach) – This is the best Italian restaurant in the area! The pizza is served neapolitan style, and our favorite is the margherita with pepperoni. The carbonara is delicious, along with the Pazzo salad and homemade bread drenched in garlicky goodness.
3. Craft Bar (Destin and FWB) – With multiple locations throughout the Destin area, Craft Bar is always a great choice with an expansive menu and excellent happy hour. There’s something here for everyone and they have both indoor and outdoor seating. We love the Mac & Cheese, burgers and happy hour cocktails. 
4. North Beach Social (Santa Rosa Beach) – Located across the street and operated by the same owner as The Bay, this casual restaurant is a quintessential vacation spot. You can eat on picnic tables right on the beach! The restaurant also features live music and a popular paella evening each week. The Carson chicken sandwich is to-die for, especially with the truffle French fries. 
5. Buffalo’s Reef (Fort Walton Beach) – If you’re someone who likes total dives but fantastic grub, head over to Buffalo’s Reef for the best chicken wings in the area. My husband and I love this restaurant with their homemade sauces and big, juicy, tender wings. We prefer the boneless chicken wings, but the menu also features burgers, sandwiches and more. 
6. Holi Indian (Fort Walton Beach and Miramar Beach) – Those wanting Indian food will want to try Holi’s Indian for authentic, deliciously-prepared cuisine. Our favorite is the butter chicken and tikka masala with garlicky, buttery naan bread. 

Avoid: McGuire’s Irish Pub is popular, but the food is subpar. Consider visiting for drinks to experience the ambiance.

Dessert in Destin, Florida

After spending your day at the beach or exploring the area, be sure to end your day with a locally-made sweet treat in Destin! From tangy key lime pie to homemade ice cream, the Emerald Coast has plenty of excellent choices to curb your sweet craving. 

1. Donut Hole (Destin and Santa Rosa Beach) – Although this restaurant also serves a popular breakfast, the homemade pie is what they’re known for. Their key lime pie is incredible, and you can purchase an entire pie from their bakery case! 
2. Pink Coyote Ice Cream Co (Destin and Fort Walton Beach) – If you’re wanting some of the best ice cream in the area, head to Pink Coyote for freshly-made ice cream and treats. The Cookie Monster flavor is my favorite while my husband loves the cookie butter avalanche shake. 
3. Pecan Jack’s (Santa Rosa Beach) – Another excellent spot for ice cream can be found at Pecan Jack’s Ice Cream. You can try many different and unique flavors here, along with candies and other homemade treats. And just for the adults – boozy flavors! 
4. Thicc Cookie Co (Fort Walton Beach) – One of the newest cookie restaurants in the area is locally-owned cookie shop. You’ll find giant cookies stuffed with all sorts of goodies.