What-To-Do in Panama City Beach Issue no. 1 2026-2027 - Magazine - Page 13
Panama City Beach’s culinary scene owes much
to its prime location on the Gulf. The bounty of
fresh, local seafood plays a central role in the
city’s gastronomy, with chefs taking full advantage
of the daily catch. From succulent shrimp and
sweet blue crab to the highly prized grouper and
snapper, the marine life here is abundant and
varied. This access to fresh ingredients ensures
that every dish is infused with the flavors of the
sea, making dining in Panama City Beach a true
celebration of coastal cuisine.
The influence of coastal ingredients extends
beyond seafood. The proximity to fertile farmlands
means that many restaurants also feature fresh,
locally sourced produce. Bright, vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and fragrant herbs often
accompany the seafood dishes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that highlight the best
of both land and sea. This commitment to using
fresh, local ingredients ensures that every meal
is not only delicious but also supports the local
economy and promotes sustainable practices.
Moreover, the cultural melting pot that is
Panama City Beach contributes to the unique culinary landscape. The region’s diverse population has
brought a variety of cooking styles and traditions
to the forefront, creating a rich tapestry of flavors.
From Southern comfort food to Caribbean-inspired
dishes, the local cuisine is a testament to the area’s
vibrant cultural heritage. This blend of influences
means that every meal is an opportunity to experience something new and exciting, making Panama
City Beach a true food lover’s paradise.
Beach. Each restaurant has its own unique take on
gumbo, so it’s worth trying it at several places to
experience the different variations.
For those with a sweet tooth, the key lime pie
is an absolute must. This dessert, which originates
from the Florida Keys, has become a staple in
Panama City Beach. Made with a graham cracker
crust, a tangy key lime filling, and topped with
whipped cream, it’s the perfect way to end a meal.
Top Restaurants for
Seafood Lovers
Panama City Beach is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering a plethora of restaurants that serve
the freshest catches from the Gulf. One of the top
spots for seafood lovers is Captain Anderson’s
Restaurant. Established in 1967, this family-owned
restaurant has become a local institution. Known
for its waterfront views and extensive menu,
Captain Anderson’s offers everything from fried
shrimp and oysters to broiled lobster and stuffed
flounder. The restaurant even has its own fleet of
fishing boats, ensuring that the seafood is as fresh
as it gets.
Another standout is the Saltwater Grill, which
combines a sophisticated dining experience
with an impressive array of seafood dishes. The
restaurant features a stunning 25,000-gallon
tropical saltwater aquarium that creates a unique
and mesmerizing ambiance. The menu includes
favorites like jumbo lump crab cakes, cedar plank
Must-Try Dishes Unique to
Panama City Beach
When visiting Panama City Beach, there are
certain dishes that you simply must try to get
a true taste of the local flavor. One of the
most iconic is the Gulf Coast grouper sandwich. This dish features a flaky, mild white
fish that is either grilled, blackened, or
fried and served on a soft bun with a side
of tartar sauce. It’s a simple yet incredibly
satisfying meal that perfectly showcases
the quality of the local seafood.
Another must-try dish is the seafood
gumbo, a hearty stew that combines a
variety of seafood with vegetables, herbs,
and a rich, flavorful broth. This dish reflects
the Creole and Cajun influences in the region
and is a perfect example of how different
cultural traditions come together in Panama City
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