Panama City is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, and it’s no surprise that locals know the best spots to indulge in these delicacies. If you’re visiting Panama City and want to experience authentic local cuisine, you must try the seafood at the places where the locals eat. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the best one.
One of the famous restaurants is “La Mar” it is known for its mouth-watering seafood dishes that are prepared with the freshest ingredients.Â
Also Read Where do Locals Eat Seafood in Myrtle Beach
these seafood restaurants in Panama City offer a variety of seafood dishes with casual atmospheres suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends. Each restaurant has its unique specialties, such as crab dishes at Bayou Bill’s, oyster dishes at Hunt’s and Shuckums, fried seafood at Dusty’s, and Gulf seafood at Pompano Joe’s.
Hidden Gems of Panama City’s Seafood Scene. Where do locals eat seafood in Panama City
In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the most popular local seafood eateries in Panama City, where you can relish the freshest and most flavorful seafood dishes. So, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover the hidden gems of Panama City’s seafood scene.
Bayou Bill’s Crab House
Bayou Bill’s Crab House is a seafood restaurant that specializes in crab dishes. It is located at 5415 North Lagoon Drive, Panama City, Florida. The restaurant is known for its boiled crab, shrimp, and crawfish. In addition to these dishes, they also serve seafood platters, salads, and sandwiches. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is suitable for families, couples, and friends.
Hunt’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant
Hunt’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant is another seafood restaurant located in Panama City. It is situated at 1150 Beck Avenue, Panama City, Florida. The restaurant is popular for its oyster dishes, which are served raw, steamed, or fried. They also serve a variety of other seafood dishes, such as shrimp, scallops, and fish. The atmosphere of the restaurant is casual, and it is suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Dusty’s
Dusty’s is a seafood restaurant that is located at 16450 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida. The restaurant is known for its fried seafood dishes, including shrimp, oysters, and fish. They also serve salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Dusty’s has a casual atmosphere and is suitable for families, couples, and friends.
Pompano Joe’s
Pompano Joe’s is a seafood restaurant located at 16202 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida. The restaurant is known for its Gulf seafood dishes, including grilled fish, steamed shrimp, and seafood gumbo. They also serve salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Pompano Joe’s has a casual atmosphere and is suitable for families, couples, and friends.
Shuckums Oyster Pub & Grill
Shuckums Oyster Pub & Grill is a seafood restaurant located at 15614 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida. The restaurant is known for its oyster dishes, including raw oysters, steamed oysters, and fried oysters. They also serve a variety of other seafood dishes, such as shrimp, crab, and fish. The atmosphere of the restaurant is casual, and it is suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Uncle Ernies
This seafood restaurant is located on the waterfront and offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere for diners. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including shrimp, oysters, and fish. Customers can also enjoy the restaurant’s full bar, which offers a range of cocktails, beer, and wine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, Uncle Ernie’s is the perfect spot.
The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House
Known for its delicious seafood and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House is a must-visit for anyone in Panama City. The restaurant offers a wide variety of seafood dishes, from classic fried shrimp and oysters to more unique options like blackened fish tacos and seafood gumbo. There’s also a full bar with plenty of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails to choose from.
Dee’s Hang Out
For a more laid-back dining experience, check out Dee’s Hang Out. This funky seafood joint has a fun and eclectic atmosphere, with colorful decor and live music on weekends. The menu features a mix of classic seafood dishes and more creative options, like the seafood mac and cheese and the spicy shrimp and sausage jambalaya. Plus, the restaurant is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the fun.
Schooners
With its beachfront location and lively atmosphere, Schooners is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The menu features a wide range of seafood options, from raw oysters to grilled fish to shrimp and grits. There’s also a full bar with a variety of beer, wine, and cocktails to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a night out with friends, Schooners is the perfect spot.
The Shrimp Boat Restaurant
If you’re looking for a classic seafood experience, head to The Shrimp Boat Restaurant. This cozy spot offers a range of fresh seafood dishes, including shrimp, crab, and fish. The menu also includes some non-seafood options, like burgers and chicken sandwiches, so there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a sweet treat after your meal, be sure to try the restaurant’s famous key lime pie.
Firefly Restaurant & Lounge
This upscale seafood restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and creative dishes. The menu features a range of seafood options, from classic dishes like crab cakes and lobster bisque to more unique offerings like the shrimp and grits with chorizo and the pan-seared scallops with sweet corn risotto. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and a variety of craft cocktails.
The Grand Marlin of Panama City Beach
With its stunning waterfront views and delicious seafood dishes, The Grand Marlin is a must-visit for anyone in Panama City. The menu features a range of fresh seafood options, from oysters and shrimp to grouper and mahi-mahi. There’s also a full bar with a variety of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails to choose from.
Captain’s Table Fish House Restaurant
For a classic seafood experience, head to Captain’s Table Fish House Restaurant. The menu features a range of fresh seafood dishes, from fried shrimp and oysters to grilled fish and crab cakes. There’s also a full bar with a variety of beer, wine, and cocktails to choose from.
Dee’s Hang Out
This funky seafood joint offers a laid-back atmosphere and creative dishes. The menu features a mix of classic seafood options and more unique offerings, like the seafood mac and cheese and the spicy shrimp and sausage jambalaya. There’s also live music on weekends and a pet-friendly patio.
Saltwater Grill
This upscale seafood restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a range of seafood options, from classic dishes like crab cakes and shrimp scampi to more unique offerings like the lobster and shrimp pot pie. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and a variety of craft cocktails.
J Michael’s
J Michael’s is a seafood restaurant located in Panama City, Florida. It offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including shrimp, oysters, and fish, prepared with a variety of seasonings and sauces. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is popular with locals and visitors alike. Some of the most popular dishes at J Michael’s include the fried shrimp, grilled fish, and crab cakes. In addition to seafood, the restaurant also offers a selection of non-seafood dishes, such as burgers and salads.
Pineapple Willy’s
Pineapple Willy’s is a seafood restaurant located in Panama City Beach, Florida. It is known for its seafood platters, which feature a variety of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, oysters, and fish, as well as sides like hushpuppies and coleslaw. The restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails, including its famous Pineapple Willy’s Rum Runner. Pineapple Willy’s is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Bayou On The Beach Cafe
Bayou On The Beach Cafe is a seafood restaurant located in Panama City Beach, Florida. It is known for its Cajun-style seafood dishes, such as crawfish etouffee and jambalaya. The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, such as shrimp and crab cakes. The atmosphere at Bayou On The Beach Cafe is casual and relaxed, with outdoor seating available.
Bayou On The Beach
Bayou On The Beach is a seafood restaurant located in Panama City, Florida. It is known for its fresh seafood dishes, such as blackened fish and seafood platters, as well as its selection of craft beers. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is popular with locals and visitors alike. Bayou On The Beach also offers live music on weekends.
Shrimp Basket
Shrimp Basket is a casual seafood restaurant that serves delicious seafood dishes such as fish and chips, fried shrimp, crab cakes, and seafood gumbo. The restaurant has a fun and relaxed atmosphere, with friendly staff and affordable prices. The menu is extensive, with plenty of options for both seafood lovers and non-seafood eaters. Shrimp Basket also offers daily specials and happy hour deals.
Mike’s Cafe & Oyster Bar
Mike’s Cafe & Oyster Bar is a popular seafood spot known for its fresh oysters, seafood platters, and fish tacos. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere with outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying the warm Florida weather. Mike’s Cafe & Oyster Bar also offers a variety of cocktails, beer, and wine to complement their seafood dishes.
Runaway Island
Runaway Island is a waterfront seafood restaurant that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including shrimp and grits, fish tacos, and seafood platters. The restaurant also offers live music and entertainment, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
Boon Docks Restaurant
Boon Docks Restaurant is a family-owned seafood restaurant that has been serving the Panama City area for over 30 years. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including fried shrimp, oysters, and seafood gumbo. Boon Docks Restaurant also offers daily specials and happy hour deals. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with friendly staff and affordable prices.
FAQ
What do locals eat in Panama?
Panama has a diverse culinary scene influenced by its history and culture. Locals enjoy traditional dishes like arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), sancocho (a soup with meat, vegetables, and herbs), ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juices), and tamales (corn dough filled with meat or vegetables). Panamanians also love seafood, plantains, and beans.
What is Panama City known for food?
Panama City offers a wide range of gastronomic delights that showcase the country’s culinary diversity. The city is famous for dishes such as carimañolas (deep-fried yucca stuffed with meat), empanadas (pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables), and hojaldres (fried bread). Seafood is also a highlight, with restaurants serving fresh ceviche, fried fish, and octopus.
What is the best fish to eat in Panama?
Panama is home to a variety of fish, but one of the most popular is the corvina. This white fish is known for its mild flavor and firm texture, making it versatile for grilling, frying, or ceviche. Other popular fish in Panama include snapper, sea bass, and tuna.
What are 2 main dishes in Panama?
Two of the most popular dishes in Panama are arroz con pollo and sancocho. Arroz con pollo is a comforting dish made with rice, chicken, vegetables, and spices, while sancocho is a hearty soup made with meat, yucca, plantains, corn, and cilantro. Both dishes are flavorful and filling, perfect for a satisfying meal.
What do people in Panama eat for dinner?
Dinner in Panama can vary depending on the region and personal preferences. Some common dinner options include grilled meats, seafood dishes, stews, and rice-based dishes like arroz con pollo or arroz con camarones (rice with shrimp). A side of plantains or salad often accompanies the main course.
Is food expensive in Panama?
Food prices in Panama can vary depending on the location and type of cuisine. Generally, street food and local restaurants offer affordable options, while upscale restaurants can be more expensive. However, compared to many other countries, food in Panama is generally considered to be reasonably priced.
What do Panama eat for breakfast?
Breakfast in Panama typically includes traditional staples like eggs, rice and beans, and fried plantains. Another popular breakfast dish is the hojaldre, a fried bread pastry often served with cheese or meat. Coffee is a staple beverage, and fresh fruit juices are also popular.
