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Food|Restaurants

9 Scrumptious Restaurants Along The Florida Coast You Must Add To Your Bucket List

Discover some of the best waterfront restaurants along the Florida coast known for their stunning views and delicious food.

Updated Jun 6, 2020

Written by 

Victoria W

The only thing that can make a Florida evening more spectacular is a delicious meal. It's even better if that meal is served with a view of one of our pristine, beautiful beaches. There are many restaurants you'll find dotting our extensive coastline, and most of them are amazing. Here are a few of the best restaurants along the Florida coast that are famous for their breathtaking views and mouthwatering food.

1. High Tides at Snack Jack, Flagler Beach

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Facebook/High Tides @ Snack Jack
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Facebook/High Tides @ Snack Jack

At this Flagler Beach local favorite, you can choose between fried classics and organic options, meaning there's truly something for everyone. To learn more, visit their website here.

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2. Palm Pavilion, Clearwater Beach

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TripAdvisor
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TripAdvisor/Kristina S

At Palm Pavilion, you can take in views of the Gulf of Mexico while enjoying seafood, steaks, chicken, burgers, and a beautiful sunset. There's truly nothing better. To learn more, visit their website here.

3. The Breakers Restaurant, New Smyrna Beach

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TripAdvisor/Lisa H
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TripAdvisor/Margaret R

You'll find all kinds of dishes at this oceanfront classic, but they're possibly most famous for their burgers, which come in seemingly endless varieties. To learn more, visit their website here.

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4. Runaway Island Beach Bar and Grill, Panama City Beach

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Facebook/Runaway Island Beach Bar and Grill

With unparalleled views of the Gulf of Mexico, you'll never want to leave this beachfront oasis. Sample the freshest local seafood while you let your troubles melt away. To learn more, visit their website here.

5. The Back Porch, Destin and Panama City Beach

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Facebook/The Back Porch in Destin, Florida
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Facebook/The Back Porch in Destin, Florida

This legendary seafood spot has been a local favorite since its beginning in 1974, with fresh, tasty dishes and jaw-dropping views of the Gulf. To learn more, visit their website here.

6. The Sandbar Restaurant, Anna Maria

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Facebook/The Sandbar Restaurant
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Facebook/The Sandbar Restaurant

This gorgous island paradise has been chosen as a top wedding and reception destination on Florida's west coast, but you don't have to be a bride to appreciate the views at The Sandbar. This romantic restaurant serves the freshest seafood in town, with perfect sunset views. To learn more, visit their website here.

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7. Vue on 30a, Santa Rosa Beach

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Facebook/Vue on 30a

This modern and elegant restaurant will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. This renowned restaurant has won awards for best waterfront dining and best place to watch a sunset. To learn more, visit their website here.

8. Shuckers & Island Beach Resort, Jensen Beach

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Facebook/Shuckers & Island Beach Resort
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Facebook/Shuckers & Island Beach Resort

At Shuckers, you can devour delicious seafood, steaks, pasta dishes and salads. Everything is prepared with culinary expertise at this luxurious resort. To learn more, visit their website here.

9. S3 Restaurant, Fort Lauderdale

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Facebook/S3 Restaurant

This upscale eatery features sushi, craft cocktails, and creative New American cuisine. And with close proximity to the beach, S3 Restaurant is home to exceptional views. To learn more, visit their website here.

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Have you been to any of the best restaurants along the Florida coast? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another exceptional waterfront eatery, nominate it for a chance to be featured.

For more fun dining destinations, visit these gorgeous outdoor restaurants in Florida.

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Food|Restaurants

Turn Back Time With a Stay at a Charming Retro Motel & a Meal at this Vintage Diner in Florida

Experience nostalgia on Florida’s coast: a retro motel stay and classic diner dining.

Published Nov 8, 2024

Written by 

Megan Todaro

Looking for a quick weekend getaway in St. Augustine, Florida? Who wouldn't want to explore Florida's oldest city for a few days? If you happen to be headed to this area, we have a wonderfully nostalgic way to enjoy an overnight getaway and delicious meal. First, you'll be turning back time with accommodations at The Local in St. Augustine. Then, you'll feast in a retro-style spot known as the Beachside Diner. Ready to see what this St. Augustine adventure has to offer?

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Facebook The Local - St. Augustine

The Local in St. Augustine is a charming boutique hotel that combines the convenience of modern amenities with the cozy, laid-back vibe you’d expect in the historic town of St. Augustine. Visitors can expect a welcoming, minimalist aesthetic with clean lines, muted colors, and mid-century modern furnishings that make the space feel fresh and relaxed. The rooms often feature local art and decor that reflects the coastal, historic ambiance of the area.

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Facebook The Local - St. Augustine

Guests staying at The Local are situated just a short drive from the heart of downtown St. Augustine, where they can explore iconic attractions like Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, and various local dining spots. The hotel also encourages a more local experience by providing suggestions for nearby hidden gems, so visitors often find themselves exploring parts of the city that are a bit off the beaten path. Additionally, The Local is known for its bike rentals, perfect for those wanting to enjoy a leisurely ride around town or along the nearby beaches.

And what pairs better with a nostalgic overnight stay than a deliciously nostalgic meal?

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Facebook Beachside Diner

Dining at Beachside Diner in St. Augustine offers a delightful mix of classic American diner vibes with a coastal twist. Located near the beach, this spot serves up a nostalgic experience that feels like stepping into a retro seaside diner from the '50s or '60s but with a fresh, Florida-inspired flair.

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Beachside Diner

The menu features hearty, comforting breakfast and lunch options, many of which have a local, seasonal twist. Think pancakes topped with fresh berries, classic eggs and bacon, as well as creative omelets, sandwiches, and beach-inspired seafood options like fish tacos or shrimp po’ boys. Many guests come for the all-day breakfast, a diner staple, and rave about the homemade biscuits and waffles, which pair perfectly with their craft coffee selections. Milkshakes, of course, are a must-try for anyone looking to complete the classic diner experience.

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Beachside Diner

Beachside Diner is a place where you can enjoy a relaxed, welcoming vibe, making it perfect for a laid-back meal after a morning on the sand or a casual family breakfast. The combination of nostalgia and beach-town warmth makes it a memorable stop for visitors looking for comfort food with a view.

What do you think about this trip back in time in St. Augustine, Florida? Share with a friend you'd like to travel here with! Also, make sure to protect yourself from the Florida sun while you’re outside! Sun Bum from REI is a great option to lather and stay safe.

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Food|Restaurants

The Off-The-Beaten-Path Restaurant In Florida That Is Worth The Day Trip

Visit The Katherine, an off-the-beaten-path restaurant in Florida worth checking out. Enjoy international flavors and natural wines!

Published Sep 30, 2024

Written by 

Megan Todaro

Without thinking much about it, answer this question: do you have an off-the-beaten-path restaurant that is your go-to, where you know you can always grab a satisfying meal, a crisp glass of red, and a cozy, intimate ambiance? If you can't come up with an answer off the top of your head, don't worry - we have a place for you. The Katherine Restaurant off US1 and E Broward Blvd is a hidden gem spot that has quickly become a fan-favorite among locals. Get ready for a culinary journey embracing flavors from around the globe under one roof.

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Provided by The Katherine

Welcome to The Katherine - a popular neighborhood restaurant with a relaxed yet approachable modern atmosphere. Opened in late 2021 by Chef Timon Balloo and his wife, Marissa Katherine, this restaurant reflects Balloo’s personal culinary journey and varied culinary experiences. Named after his wife, The Katherine is just a stone’s throw from the water, complementing its coastal-inspired menu and laid-back ambiance.

Chef Timon Balloo is a well-regarded figure in the South Florida dining scene. He has built a reputation for infusing global influences into his dishes, drawing from his multicultural heritage, which includes Chinese, Indian, and Trinidadian roots. With The Katherine, he created a space that feels like an extension of his home, aiming to offer food that is both comforting and bold in flavor.

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Provided by The Katherine

Like most scrumptious neighborhood haunts that become cult classics, The Katherine focuses on seasonal ingredients, with a menu that often changes depending on local availability. Then, when paired with a natural and organic wine menu (one of the only in the area!) You’re almost guaranteed to have a meal you’ll never forget.

A bowl of savory mixed meat and vegetables, garnished with herbs, served on a wooden table.
Provided by The Katherine
A metal dish filled with clams and topped with golden French fries, garnished with herbs on a wooden table.
Provided by The Katherine

If you want to get a feel for The Katherine’s menu before visiting, we have a few dishes that showcase the eclectic blending of comfort food with international flair. Keep in mind that the menu does rotate, so these may not be available by the time you visit. Unless you’re walking out the door reading this…

  • Tuna Crispy Rice with spicy mayo, sweet soy, and chives.
  • Clam Chowder Fries with steamed clams and Old Bay,
  • Grilled Hanger Steak Frites, served with a sauce au poivre.
  • Mom’s Trini Oxtail and the Aji Amarillo Grilled Chicken Thigh are other favorites, with the latter reflecting Balloo’s love of bold, spicy flavors.
  • The dessert menu offers treats like Vanilla Bean “Torrejas” French Toast - YUM for those with a sweet tooth.

Overall, The Katherine is a must-visit for those seeking inventive cuisine that is deeply personal and rich in flavors. Have you already dined at The Katherine? Sound off in the comments section! We'd love to hear your favorite menu options. You can also visit The Katherine Facebook Page for more information about hours of operation and seasonal menu items. When you visit The Katherine, you'll be very close to this incredible Fort Lauderdale statue. Come snap a photo after your meal!

Looking for more great things to do in Florida? Check out the fun adventures available through Airbnb Experiences!

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