Introduction
Are you planning a trip to Destin, Florida? With its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder why Destin is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States. But what about food? Where should you go to find the best restaurants in Destin? This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the top places to eat in Destin, from beachfront favorites to hidden gems.
Feature a Local Chef
To get a better understanding of where to eat in Destin, we decided to interview a local chef. Chef John Smith has been cooking in the area for over 20 years and knows the ins and outs of the city’s culinary scene. He shared with us his favorite restaurants in Destin, as well as some insider tips on how to find the best places to eat.
Best of the Beach
When you think of dining in Destin, the first thing that comes to mind is probably beachfront restaurants. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Here are some of the top beachfront restaurants in Destin that Chef John recommends:
- The Crab Shack: This casual seafood restaurant is located right on the beach and offers fresh, locally-caught seafood. The menu features everything from oysters and shrimp to crab claws and fish tacos. Make sure to try the famous “Shack Attack” – an all-you-can-eat seafood feast!
- Harry T’s Lighthouse: This waterfront restaurant is located in the HarborWalk Village and offers stunning views of the harbor. The menu is filled with classic American dishes like burgers and steaks, as well as fresh seafood. Don’t miss out on the signature grouper sandwich – it’s one of the best in town!
- Crab Island Cantina: This lively Mexican restaurant is located directly on the beach and offers an extensive menu of tacos, burritos, and other south-of-the-border favorites. The outdoor seating area is the perfect spot to watch the sunset while sipping on a margarita.
Hidden Gems
For those looking for something a little more off the beaten path, Destin has plenty of hidden gems. These lesser-known restaurants offer exceptional cuisine and a unique atmosphere that can’t be found anywhere else. Here are a few of Chef John’s favorite hidden gems in Destin:
- Luna’s Eat and Drink: This quaint bistro is tucked away in a quiet corner of town and offers delicious Italian-inspired dishes. The menu features homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a variety of small plates. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual night out with friends.
- The Boathouse Oyster Bar: This cozy seafood joint is located on Santa Rosa Sound and offers an extensive menu of oysters, clams, and other freshly-caught seafood. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
- The Fish House: This charming seafood shack is located right on the beach and serves up some of the freshest seafood in town. The menu features a variety of classic dishes, such as fried shrimp, fish tacos, and clam chowder. Make sure to try the signature fish and chips – they’re some of the best in Destin!
Foodie Tour
If you’re looking for an all-encompassing tour of the best restaurants in Destin, then a foodie tour is the way to go. On a foodie tour, you’ll get to sample a variety of cuisines from different establishments and get an inside look at the city’s culinary scene. Here are some of the top foodie tours in Destin:
- Destin Food Tours: This tour takes guests on a 3-hour journey through the best restaurants in Destin. You’ll get to sample a variety of cuisines, from seafood to Mexican and beyond. Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how each establishment prepares its dishes.
- Seafood Tour: This 2-hour tour focuses on the city’s seafood scene. You’ll get to sample a variety of freshly-caught seafood dishes, from oysters to shrimp and more. Plus, you’ll learn about the local fishing industry and get a firsthand look at the daily catch.
- Wine and Dine Tour: This 3-hour tour takes guests to some of the best restaurants in Destin, where they’ll get to sample a variety of wines and dishes. You’ll also get to meet the chefs and learn about their culinary backgrounds.
Dining by Cuisine
Destin has a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. Whether you’re looking for Italian, French, Mexican, or something else, you’ll find plenty of great options. Here are some of the best restaurants in Destin, organized by cuisine:
- Italian: La Piazza, Olive Garden, Trattoria del Sol, La Dolce Vita
- French: Le Bistro, Café du Soleil, Le Petit Jardin
- Mexican: Taco Bell, El Toro Loco, La Hacienda
- Seafood: The Crab Shack, Harry T’s Lighthouse, The Fish House
- Steak: Outback Steakhouse, Longhorn Steakhouse, Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Conclusion
As you can see, Destin has something for everyone when it comes to dining. From beachfront favorites to hidden gems, there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. We hope this guide has been helpful in finding the perfect place to eat in Destin. For more information, check out VisitFlorida.com for additional resources.
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