Best Southern American Restaurants in Destin

14 restaurants available nearby

1. Beach Walk Cafe

4.8

Exceptional(997)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 11 times today

At Beach Walk Café in Destin, the seafood offerings are a sublime experience that consistently draw glowing reviews. Known for its “Most Romantic Dining Experience,” the café pairs its fresh, excellently prepared seafood with stunning Gulf views. Diners rave about the pecan-crusted grouper and fresh snapper, highlighting not just the flavor but the perfect preparation. “The food was above excellent,” one visitor notes, praising both the grouper and lobster tails. Another guest mentions, “Fish was so fresh and portions were good.” It's not just the food that makes Beach Walk Café standout, but the whole experience, combining attentive service with an ambiance that celebrates both cuisine and setting. This is a must-visit for any seafood lover seeking a memorable meal in Destin.

A photo of Commelfo Restaurant restaurant

2. Commelfo Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(628)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Miramar Beach

Booked 21 times today

At Commelfo Restaurant in Miramar Beach, European cuisine is not just served; it's celebrated with flair and a touch of gold! Commelfo, a jewel in Destin's culinary crown, offers a luxurious dining experience where every dish is treated as a masterpiece. "Done the proper way," the restaurant lives up to its name with a menu that dazzles, featuring items like 24K Golden Cheesecake and New Zealand Rack of Lamb. Patrons rave about the "outstanding" Lobster Ravioli and the perfectly cooked Sea Bass with Saffron Risotto, emphasizing both the quality and creativity of the meals. Commelfo's atmosphere is described as perfect for special occasions, with a service that makes every guest feel like part of the family. Combining traditional European techniques with innovative twists, Commelfo is a must-visit for an authentic and memorable European dining experience.

A photo of Joe's Crab Shack - Destin restaurant

3. Joe's Crab Shack - Destin

3.5

Very Good(6)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 4 times today

At Joe's Crab Shack in Destin, seafood enthusiasts can dive into an ocean of flavors, where the "captains platter was absolutely amazing" and the "honey mustard salmon" is a standout. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and a delightful array of seafood dishes, from the crispy coconut shrimp with pineapple dipping sauce to the generously portioned crab pots, Joe's ensures every dish is a testament to its quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the "great boiled shrimp and crawfish" and highlight the exceptional service that complements the culinary experience, making Joe's not just a meal, but a memorable event. Whether you're savoring the seafood boil or indulging in the crab daddy feast, Joe's Crab Shack delivers a true taste of coastal cuisine right in the heart of Destin.

A photo of Margaritaville - Destin restaurant

4. Margaritaville - Destin

3.7

Very Good(9)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 3 times today

Escape to Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, right in Destin. From a volcano flowing with margaritas to suspended airplanes, Margaritaville is more than a restaurant; it's a state of mind. Margaritaville has everything you need to have a good time: great island-inspired food, four unique bars, live music and two levels of outdoor seating. Chill out with a margarita on the Porch of Indecision. After dinner the laid-back tropical atmosphere transitions to a late night scene with dancing and live music every night of the week.

A photo of Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Sandestin restaurant

5. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Sandestin

4.9

Exceptional(2422)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 27 times today

Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in Sandestin, Destin, offers an exceptional American dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its vibrant tropical ambiance and impeccable service, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Reviewers rave about the quality of the American cuisine, highlighting dishes like the "best-ever crab cakes" and the "macadamia nut crusted snapper" as must-tries. The Kona Crusted Ribeye and coconut shrimp are also highly recommended, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to flavor and quality. With glowing reviews like "everything was a 100 out of 10!" and regular mentions of the excellent service, it’s clear why Tommy Bahama is a top choice for those seeking a memorable American meal in a relaxing setting.

6. Emeril's Coastal

4.5

Awesome(2482)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Santa Rosa Beach

Booked 24 times today

Emeril's Coastal in Santa Rosa Beach, Miramar Beach, truly shines as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, particularly known for its exceptional seafood dishes. This restaurant encapsulates Emeril’s profound appreciation for fresh Gulf seafood, paired exquisitely with locally sourced ingredients to create a dining experience unlike any other. Guests rave about their visits, with testimonials like, “Simply incredible” and “Emeril’s Coastal did NOT disappoint.” The menu, featuring delights such as Oyster Spaghetti and Florida Rock Shrimp Rolls, consistently receives high praise for both innovation and taste. The ambiance, described as casual yet sophisticated, complements the culinary excellence, making every meal memorable. Whether it's the praised seafood pasta or the unique pineapple upside-down cornbread, Emeril's Coastal stands out as a must-visit for its authentic and high-quality Contemporary American offerings.

7. Bijoux

4.9

Exceptional(3178)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 7 times today

At Bijoux in the bustling Market Shops near Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, seafood lovers can indulge in the epitome of Gulf delicacies. Celebrated for its "fresh Gulf seafood," Bijoux has earned rave reviews for its exceptional culinary offerings. Diners consistently praise the fresh, perfectly prepared dishes, from the "amazing crab beignets" to the "diver scallops" that are a must-try. The pompano special is a crowd favorite, described as "perfectly prepared," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity in every dish. With its elegant ambiance and top-notch service, Bijoux is a gem in Destin, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors seeking the best seafood experience on the Emerald Coast.

A photo of Ocean Club Restaurant restaurant

8. Ocean Club Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(1053)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 9 times today

Nestled in the heart of Destin, Miramar Beach, Ocean Club Restaurant stands out as a beacon of exemplary Seafood cuisine. Renowned for its authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients, the restaurant has consistently impressed patrons with its signature dishes, particularly the Grouper Ocean Club. Guests rave, "The grouper special was some of the best I've had!!" and celebrate the consistently "delicious and old school" seafood offerings. With over 20 years of acclaim, the restaurant promises not only a meal but a memorable dining experience with its elegant atmosphere and exceptional service, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors looking for the finest in Seafood dining.

A photo of Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood restaurant

9. Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood

4.7

Exceptional(2473)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 6 times today

Seagar's Prime Steaks and Seafood, nestled in the luxurious Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa on Florida's Emerald Coast, is a seafood lover's paradise. Celebrated as the area's only AAA Four-Diamond steakhouse, Seagar's delights guests with its commitment to the freshest seafood, earning glowing reviews such as "Seafood is fresh and cooked perfectly" and "The Blackened lobster was delicious." Diners consistently praise the "excellent service and great ambiance," with special mentions of dishes like the "superb seafood" and "lobster bisque." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or seeking an impeccable dining experience, Seagar's in Destin offers a seafood feast that is both authentic and exceptional.

A photo of Basil and Baxter's Kitchen & Cocktails restaurant

10. Basil and Baxter's Kitchen & Cocktails

4.7

Exceptional(277)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Destin

Booked 1 time today

Seafood lovers, rejoice! Basil and Baxter's Kitchen & Cocktails in the Destin-Niceville area is a must-visit for its exceptional seafood offerings. Praised for its “beyond delicious” dinner specials, the restaurant shines with dishes like the locally-sourced grouper, heralded as “one of the best grouper dishes I've ever had!” The authenticity of their seafood is echoed in the rave reviews about their shrimp beignets and shrimp & grits, making every bite a testament to quality and freshness. With a vibrant atmosphere and consistent accolades for both food and service, Basil and Baxter's delivers a seafood experience that’s both genuine and immensely satisfying. As one diner put it, “This place is a must try and you won't regret it!”

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

C
Craig
Northwest Florida •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Great place in downtown Pensacola. Always a good meal, good service, and good ambience.
More info
The Union Public HousePrice: Moderate• Gastro Pub• Pensacola
•
4.8
L
Lynn
New Orleans / Louisiana •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Had a great experience the first time we were there. This time was still good but not the same. the Service in Sister Hen is outstanding. The service this time in Bother Fox, not so much. The room was freezing and our Server forgot to tell the manager to turn the ac off since it was only 50 degrees outside. They were not busy although they were out of some of the menu items that we loved from a couple weeks ago. Special was just the fish of the day. The server did not know that we were in Sister Hen and had Hendricks Gin there and told us they were out in Brother Fox. Waited and they finally served Hendricks Gin. Our Server was very good and I realize they were just doing what they were told - so not their fault. Then we finally tried the Paella - it fell short of all the other items on the menu. The seafood was over cooked and the rice, although cooked - was not crusty as in Spain. So that was a disappointment. Their wine list is awesome and had a little of something for everyone. We will still go there since the appetizers and cocktails and Sister Hen are AMAZING - but just something to think about. Consistency is a big deal - and we are locals. Onward and Upward. We will be back for the experience as I mentioned before.
More info
Brother FoxPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Pensacola
•
4.6
D
David
Northwest Florida •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Excellent service, excellent food, fantastic drinks. Great place for a romantic dinner. Restaurant Iron never disappoints!
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Restaurant IRONPrice: Expensive• Southern• Pensacola
•
4.9
J
Jalissa
Northwest Florida •1 review
5.0
Dined on Oct 8, 2024
Very good the coffee is amazing love this cute spot
More info
Aragon CafePrice: Moderate• Southern• Pensacola
•
4.5
SG
SandraG
Iowa •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jan 3, 2021
This is my second visit. I enjoy the location and food. Our server was great - he helped us with substitutions. In addition he gave us the history of the building and area. I was a bit disappointed that the fried green tomatoes had too much breading - I'm used to panko and delicate. The onion rings were super. We were sorry to be too full for dessert.
More info
Five Sisters Blues CafePrice: Moderate• Southern• Pensacola
•
4.6

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Destin

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Destin

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14 restaurants available nearby

1. Beach Walk Cafe

2. Commelfo Restaurant

3. Joe's Crab Shack - Destin

4. Margaritaville - Destin

5. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Sandestin

6. Emeril's Coastal

7. Bijoux

8. Ocean Club Restaurant

9. Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood

10. Basil and Baxter's Kitchen & Cocktails

See what locals rave about

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