The ultimate beach restaurant, right in front of Seascape Resort. Situated on one of the most beautiful and wide beaches in the area, you should come here both for the food and drinks and of course for the view. It was renovated a few years ago and now definitely looks nicer. They have a nice selection of fish sandwiches or seafood and delectable cocktails. You can combine coming here with a nice walk after on the promenade with stunning views of the sunset that will present you with a perfect backdrop for your photo op session. http://www.seascape-resort.com/the-whales-tail-destin

I may be biased here since this place is very close to what I grew up with, but I think they really have a unique mix of items that you should try. Definitely a good dining option for a Mediterranean cuisine, with a hint of the middle east. It is probably the only place to get a Lamb Gyro with Tzatziki sauce and a pita bread. The Greek Salad here is amazing and the Tour of Greece is for the ambitious ones… Surprisingly enough one of few restaurants that are open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. The food is amazing and the staff is swift in getting you seated and taking out the food to you. Really very reasonably priced and definitely worth going back for more. It is located in Miramar Beach right off of Highway 98 in a small plaza, very close to Silver Sands and several resorts in the area. http://www.aegeanfl.com/

Osaka is a one of a kind authentic Japanese dining experience. Décor, atmosphere, food and drinks all go seamlessly together. Great variety of the freshest sushi, prepared by masters of this craft will surprise your pallet with new sensations. The Hibachi Chefs will entertain the whole family with masterful show cooking techniques, where you will be asked to play a part as well. Show is great fun, but the food tastes even better. Portions are large, so save some space for dessert. Before you sit at the tables, enjoy a drink at the bar, where a variety of Japanese and more traditional drinks will set the mood for a great night. Ask the Charming Bar Girl for drink specials and her recommendations. Be prepared to taste something new! Staff is very swift and knowledgeable and smiles here are a must. They are very international and their positive attitude adds to the exotic atmosphere. Ask about special occasions and private dining. They can accommodate groups of up to sixty people and do a great job at creating the perfect setup, where you can just sit back and enjoy the moment. http://www.osakadestin.com/

Situated at the beginning of Holiday Isle, this Place is fairly new, but boasts a very different atmosphere. The artsy Décor on the walls and bold colors will encourage you to let loose and relax. The food is always perfect and the staff is just amazing. The happy hour here is between 5:00 and 6:30 and the bands will make sure you are having a great time later that night. Mondays to Thursdays, they feature a variety of local bands. Fridays feature Jones & Company – eclectic and talented musicians who will entertain you with Jazz and Funk. Saturdays they have Simply D’Vyne –Jazz, Blues and Funk. Later on Fridays and Saturdays the DJ’s will also play your favorite contemporary tunes from top 40 Pop and RnB bands. Their drink specials are really tempting so please have a designated driver or a taxi in mind. Black Taxi will be happy to drive you home safe and on time. http://www.bricabrac824.com/

There are not that many breakfast restaurants in Destin, but This one will satisfy your Omlette Cravings. They promise you an “eggceptional” breakfast. The menu offers unique options you will not find in a typical breakfast joint. This is one of the fastest growing breakfast and brunch franchises in the US. With three locations in the area, chances are there will be one near you. Whether you come in for the Coffee, Pancakes or Eggs, you feel how they taste better than at home. Don’t forget the delectable deserts! The only downside may be the wait times in season, but it is well worth it. http://www.anotherbrokenegg.com/

Another one of Destin’s Staples. The restaurant has been here for decades and still provides a unique mix of Sushi, Local Fresh Seafood and more traditional options. They always have catch of the day specials and like large parties. The view of the harbor will add to your pleasant dining experience.  Their Cocktails are to die for. Surprisingly enough, this is one of the few restaurants that beside lunch and dinner, serve breakfast as well. They are great at keeping up the food quality and service even at the busiest times of the season. It is no accident so many people visit them several times while vacationing in Destin. Harbor Docks is also a local’s favorite. The owners are very involved in the community and sponsor different events throughout the year like “Take a Kid Fishing”, where they teach the youth where Destin started from and get them acquainted with local traditions.  http://harbordocks.com/

McGuire’s is one of Destin’s Staples. Not only has it been here forever, but it is amazing how it keeps all its patrons happy all the time. They offer something unique and yet comfortably familiar. The atmosphere is one where you can feel relaxed just by entering its doors. The layout is versatile and interesting with a variety of dining areas and bars. There are so many attractions in the décor – from the million signed dollar bills on the ceiling and walls to the smart and entertaining signs and portraits. Be careful when you go to the bathroom as reading those signs carefully is required. They have an amazing Steak which comes out on a wooden board sizzling with aroma. The thick Burgers are one of a kind and The Bean Soup price is just…. unbelievable. This is the place to get your Irish Wakes and take the jar home as a reminder of the good times you had. Thursdays is ladies night and as you have guessed All Dames drink free. Fridays and Saturdays are really fun and always packed so get your table sooner. If you happen to be here on Saint Patrick’s Day, you cannot skip […]

Since 1984, Aj’s is the place for fun in Destin! The restaurant and bar downstairs will satisfy your every craving for Seafood. From fresh ice cold Oysters to Squid or Snapper. This is one of the few places where you can bring your own Catch and the cooks will be happy to prepare it for you. The highlight of the day is when the Fishing Boats roll in to the Harbor with their daily bounty of Sea Delicatessen. The menu will tempt you with variety and tasty names and the staff is Always very friendly. It is amazing to enjoy the view and feel the breeze, while tasting a drink with great people around you! The Bimini Bar upstairs has great drink specials, live music from a variety of bands and guaranteed fun atmosphere. It is truly amazing how this place has been the number one choice for locals and tourists alike for so many years! Experience it yourself. Don’t forget to get your souvenir from their shop. They have some clever t-shirts, cups and cozies. http://www.ajsdestin.com/

This place is actually run by the Descendants of the people who founded Destin. Fishing ran in their ancestor’s vanes and all that knowledge translates in the greatest tasting fish you can find. They only offer the freshest and never use food warmers. Everything is brought to the table as soon as it is ready. That means you may get some items before others, but just enjoy it one at a time and soak in the view. The daily blackboard specials are offered all day and guarantee freshness and supreme taste. Lunch menu is served between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. With two locations – One on the Harbor and the other overlooking Crab Island your seafood craving will be satisfied. They close at 9 so make plans early. Don’t forget to visit their gift shop as well. http://www.destinseafood.com/