Where Do Locals Eat Seafood in Panama City: Best Restaurants

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.

Must Read Best Shrimp in Panama City Beach: Detailed Guide (In 2024)

One of the famous restaurants is “La Mar” it is known for its mouth-watering seafood dishes that are prepared with the freshest ingredients. 

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Amanda Silva (@amandacotesilva)

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.

Here are the details of Bayou Bill’s Crab House in Panama City:

Address: 23100 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, USA Directions

Description: Lively, family-friendly standby for seafood, including crab legs, oysters & blackened fish.

Opening and Closing Time:

• Monday-Sunday: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Menu and Cost:

• Appetizers:
  • Bayou Bill’s Seafood Gumbo: $7~$10
  • Alligator: $13
  • Smoked Tuna Dip: $13
  • Stuffed Mushrooms: $12
  • Steam Shrimp: $14.50
• Fried Dinners:
  • Fried Shrimp: $26
  • Oyster: $28
  • Shrimp and Oysters: $28
  • Soft-shell Crab: $22
  • Blue Crabs: $30~$55
  • Alaskan King Crab: $110
  • Shrimp and Crab Boil: $40
  • Special of the House: $50~$60

You can find the complete menu on their website: https://bayoubills.com/menu/

Also Read Where do Locals Eat Seafood in Hilton Head: Best Restaurants

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.

Hunt’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant in Panama City Details:

Recommended Dish:

It’s hard to pick just one! Hunt’s is known for its fresh, delicious seafood, so recommendations vary. Here are some popular choices:

• Oysters: raw, steamed, baked, Cajun baked, 3 cheese, etc.
• Grouper: fresh local Gulf of Mexico grouper, grilled, blackened, or fried.
• Seafood Platter: a combination of fried shrimp, fried oysters, grouper, and hushpuppies.
• Shrimp and Grits: creamy grits topped with jumbo shrimp, cooked your way.
• Gator Tail: lightly breaded and fried, or grilled or blackened.

Menu and Cost:

• You can find the full menu with prices on Hunt’s website: https://www.huntsoysterbarpc.com/menu
• Appetizers range from $6.95 to $15.95.
• Sandwiches are $10.95 to $13.95.
• Dinners range from $12.95 to $32.95.
• There are also combos, sides, and desserts available.

Opening and Closing Time:

• Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Address:

• 1150 Beck Avenue, Panama City, FL 32401

Phone Number:

• (850) 763-9645

Website:

• https://www.huntsoysterbarpc.com/menu

Ratings and Customer Reviews:

• Hunt’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant is highly rated on Tripadvisor, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 1700 reviews. Customers rave about the fresh seafood, friendly service, and casual atmosphere.
• You can read reviews on Tripadvisor here: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g34542-d626956-Reviews-Hunt_s_Oyster_Bar_Seafood_Restaurant-Panama_City_Florida.html

Additional Information:

• Hunt’s has been a Panama City institution since 1966.
• They use locally caught seafood whenever possible.
• They offer indoor and outdoor seating.
• There is a full bar available.

Also Read Best Bars in Panama City Beach: Clubs, Nightlife, Fun (2024)

Dusty’s Oysters Bar

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.

Here are the details of Dusty’s Oysters Bar in Panama City:

• Address: 16450 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, USA
• Description: This seafood joint known for their raw bar selection dishes up oysters, crab & other casual chow.
• Opening and Closing Time:
  • Monday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Friday-Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Phone Number: (850) 233-0035
• Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Dustys-Oyster-Bar-Eatery-100063222729978/
• Recommended Dish: According to reviews, their Oysters Rockefeller and Seafood platter are highly recommended.
• Menu and Cost: You can find the menu on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Dustys-Oyster-Bar-Eatery-100063222729978/

Related Best Cheap Seafood Restaurants Panama City Beach (In 2024)

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.

Here are the details of Pompano Joe’s in Panama City:

• Address: 16202 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, USA
• Description: Vibrant eatery offering Caribbean-style seafood & tropical cocktails in laid-back space.
• Opening hours: Open daily at 11:00 AM.
• Phone number: (850) 233-1790
• Website: http://www.pompano-joes.com/
• Recommended dish: According to online reviews, the Seafood Gumbo and the Coconut Shrimp are popular choices.
• Menu and cost: You can find the menu and prices on their website: https://www.pompano-joes.com/pcb-menu-1. Here are some examples:
  • PJ’s Platter: Fried seafood at its best… shrimp, Mahi Mahi, scallops and a mini crab cake – $41.99
  • Blackened Ribeye: Certified Angus Beef 14 oz Ribeye steak, blackened and served with our horseradish cream sauce – $39.99
  • Joe’s Crab Cakes: Lump crabmeat, pan fried and served with our tomato-jalape\303\261o tartar sauce – $37.99

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.

About Shuckums Oyster Pub & Grill:

• A family-friendly eatery featuring fresh seafood, especially oysters, prepared in various ways.
• Since 1967, it has been a local favorite for its casual atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly service.
• They also offer a full bar, happy hour specials, and karaoke nights.

Opens in a new windowusmenuguide.com

Shuckums Oyster Pub & Grill, Panama City

Recommended Dish:

• According to online reviews, their Garlic Butter Oysters and Grouper Sandwich are must-tries.

Menu and Cost:

• Shuckums has a wide variety of seafood dishes, including oysters, fish, shrimp, and crab. They also offer steaks, chicken, and pasta for those who don’t prefer seafood.
• Prices are moderate, with most entrees in the $15-$25 range. You can find the full menu and prices on their website: http://places.singleplatform.com/shuckums-oyster-pub-and-seafood-grill/menu

Opening and Closing Time:

• Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Address:

• 15614 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Phone Number:

• (850) 235-3214

Website:

• http://places.singleplatform.com/shuckums-oyster-pub-and-seafood-grill/menu

Ratings and Customer Reviews:

• Shuckums has a 4-star rating on both Tripadvisor and Google Reviews. Customers praise the fresh seafood, friendly service, and lively atmosphere.

Here are some additional details that you may find helpful:

• Shuckums offers outdoor seating on their patio.
• They have a separate takeout menu.
• There is plenty of parking available in the lot next to the restaurant.

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.

• Address: 1151 Bayview Avenue, Panama City, FL 32401
• Phone Number: (850) 763-8427
• Website: https://uncleerniesbayfrontgrill.com/menu/
• Recommended Dish: This varies depending on your preferences, but they are known for their fresh seafood, particularly the grouper and the lobster tail. You can also find other tasty options like steaks, chicken, and sandwiches.
• Menu and Cost: You can find their full menu with prices on their website. It includes appetizers, salads, soups, entrees, sides, desserts, and a kids’ menu. Prices range from around $12 for sandwiches to $30 for seafood dishes.
• Opening and Closing Time: Open 7 days a week from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Ratings and Customer Reviews: Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill enjoys mostly positive reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor and Facebook. They are praised for their beautiful waterfront location, delicious food, friendly service, and live music.

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.

Here are the details of The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House in Panama City:

• Address: 16220 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, USA
• Description: Colorful spot with ample outdoor seating & a seafood menu that features chargrilled amberjack.
• Opening hours: Monday-Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Phone number: (850) 233-1750
• Website: http://www.theback-porch.com/#home
• Recommended dish: Char-grilled Amberjack
• Rating: 3.8 stars on Tripadvisor

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.

Here are the details of Dee’s Hang Out in Panama City:

• Address: 529 N Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407, USA
• Description: Cozy, bare-bones strip-mall space featuring Cajun & Creole dishes from po’ boys to jalapeño oysters.
• Hours:
  • Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
  • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
  • Monday-Wednesday and Sunday: Closed
• Phone Number: (850) 249-4264
• Website: https://www.deeshangout.com/
• Rating: 4.5 stars on Google Maps, with over 1,800 reviews
• Recommended Dishes:
  • Shrimp Tacos: Blackened shrimp tacos with pico, remoulade, and a squeeze of lime.
  • Cajun Baked Oysters: A classic Cajun dish with a spicy kick.
  • Gulf Shrimp Basket: A generous portion of fried shrimp served with hushpuppies and fries.
  • Dee’s Lemon Garlic Shrimp: A flavorful dish with a hint of sweetness.
  • Fried Flounder Filets Plate: Lightly breaded and fried flounder served with fries and coleslaw.

Dee’s Hang Out is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s known for its friendly service, delicious food, and casual atmosphere. If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy some Cajun and Creole cuisine, Dee’s Hang Out is definitely worth checking out.

Here are some additional details that you might find helpful:

• Dee’s Hang Out offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
• They have a full bar with a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.
• They offer takeout and delivery.
• They have a kids’ menu.

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.

Here are the details of Schooners in Panama City:

• Address: 5121 Gulf Dr, Panama City, FL 32408, USA
• Description: Laid-back waterfront bar & seafood spot offering sunset views, live music & late-night hours.
• Rating: 4.6 stars on Tripadvisor
• Website: http://www.schooners.com/
• Phone Number: (850) 235-3555

Additional details:

• Schooners is open 7 days a week from 11 AM till late.
• They have a nightly sunset celebration with a cannon firing.
• The food is described as fresh and delicious, with a focus on seafood.
• The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with live music and a great view of the beach.

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.

Here are the details of The Shrimp Boat Restaurant in Panama City:

• Address: 1201 Beck Ave, Panama City, FL 32401, USA
• Description: Luxe, modern setting for surf ‘n’ turf-style New American fare & creative sushi rolls.
• Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 4-9 p.m.
• Price range: $9 – $35
• Cuisine: Steakhouse, American, Seafood
• Rating: 3.5 stars on Tripadvisor
• Website: http://shrimpboatpc.com/

Here’s what people are saying about The Shrimp Boat Restaurant:

• “The food was amazing! We had the shrimp scampi and the steak and it was cooked perfectly. The service was also great, our waiter was very attentive.”
• “The view from the restaurant is beautiful. We sat outside on the deck and enjoyed the sunset. The food was good, but not great. I would definitely go back for the view and the atmosphere.”
• “The Shrimp Boat is a great place to go for a special occasion. The food is delicious and the service is excellent. We had a wonderful time.”

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.

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