Rocco Smith
Are you heading to Florida for your next vacation? If so, consider visiting Pensacola, “The City of Five Flags.” Many people love planning a trip to this city because of its white-sand beaches.
It’s also home to the Blue Angels Naval Aviation Squadron. You can also go scuba diving in Pensacola’s lush, emerald-green waters.
As far as food goes, Pensacola is known for its finest seafood. In fact, they host their annual Seafood and Crawfish Festivals in the heart of the downtown area.
You can find plenty of restaurants offering the best flavors of the sea. If you’re not in the mood for fish, other restaurants offer delicious local and international dishes for you to enjoy.
Best Restaurants in Pensacola
- The Fish House
- McGuire’s Irish Pub
- Another Broken Egg Cafe
- George Bistro + Bar
- Restaurant Iron
- Global Grill
- The Oar House
- The Fishing Hole
- The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach
- Ruby Slipper Cafe
- Fisherman’s Corner
- The Tuscan Oven Pizzeria
- Jaco’s Bayfront Bar & Grille
- Ichiban
- Jackson’s Steakhouse
Are you having trouble deciding where to eat while relaxing on the beach or sightseeing? Then, check out my list of the best restaurants in Pensacola so you’ll know exactly where to go when treating your friends to the city’s best flavors.
The Fish House
600 S Barracks St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-470-0003
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The first place on my list of the best restaurants in Pensacola that I recommend booking your next reservation at is The Fish House, by Bartram Park, Seville Square, and Seville Harbor.
This lively eatery serves fresh seafood and Southern fare by the waterfront for guests who prefer dining with a lovely coastline view. They also have live music every night.
Suppose this is your first time visiting The Fish House. In that case, I recommend trying their Crab-Stuffed Flounder, Parmesan Grouper, Sweet Potato and Kale Curry, or their signature World-Famous Grits à Ya Ya with a Bitter Apple or Templeton Smash house cocktail.
McGuire’s Irish Pub
600 E Gregory St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-433-6789
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Next up on my list of the top restaurants in Pensacola is McGuire’s Irish Pub, located west of the Oak Point neighborhood, near the Pensacola Bay Center arena.
This lively Irish pub serves tasty comfort food and steaks as you unwind after a long day of exploring the city. Most nights, they have live music and offer kettle-brewed ales to pair with any meal.
My favorite dinner options are McGuire’s Ale-Battered Shrimp, Bangers & Mash, Prime Venison Steak, and Spring Lamb Chops.
I typically order one of these dishes after starting with their Jumbo Bavarian Pretzel. Don’t forget to try it with a homemade Root Beer Float to give a touch of sweetness.
Another Broken Egg Cafe
721 E Gregory St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-912-8347
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If you’re having trouble finding a place to enjoy breakfast in the Oak Point neighborhood, consider stopping by Another Broken Egg Cafe for a tasty bayside meal.
This casual eatery offers a wide selection of breakfast and brunch options to help you start your day right before visiting any of Pensacola’s most popular tourism hotspots.
I love ordering their Lobster & Brie Omelet, Benedict Burger, Cinnamon Roll French Toast, or Belgian Waffle with a side of biscuit beignets or fresh fruit.
Don’t forget to pair your breakfast or brunch with fresh-squeezed orange juice, raspberry iced tea, or hot chocolate with whipped cream. They also offer a gluten-free menu.
George Bistro + Bar
6205 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, FL 32504
Phone: 850-912-4655
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Located north of Pensacola State College, George Bistro + Bar is your best destination for enjoying New American cuisine in an airy, bright, and chic setting.
Their patio with a porch swing is an ideal relaxation spot if you’re interested in taking in the warm, fresh air of Florida.
I recommend starting with their gourmet cheese board or grilled artichokes. Then, consider ordering their Short Ribs + Mushroom Ravioli, Shrimp + Grits, or Seared Local Grouper with a Sage It Ain’t So cocktail, White Chocolate Raspberry Latte, or Blueberry Lavender Lemonade to wash it all down. If you come for weekend brunch, try their ham, bacon, and cheddar quiche.
Restaurant Iron
22 N Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-476-7776
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One of the best restaurants in Pensacola you should visit before watching a performance at Saenger Theatre is Restaurant Iron, a stylish and vibrant destination offering some of the tastiest Southern cuisine dishes in the Downtown district.
Their culinary team puts a contemporary twist on classic favorites by using locally sourced ingredients in every handcrafted dish.
Don’t miss out on their mouth-watering Bone-In Pork Schnitzel, Nola BBQ Shrimp & Grits, Open-Faced Braised Lamb Neck Melt, or Prime Filet Mignon with a Peaches & Cream or Mai Thyme cocktail. Finally, end your night in style with a Cherry Chia Seed Pudding or Icebox Nutella Pie for dessert.
Global Grill
27 Palafox Pl, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-469-9966
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Conveniently located next to Blue Morning Gallery, Global Grill offers Pensacola locals and tourists New American entrees and tapas in a classy setting, decorated with attention-grabbing artwork.
As someone who appreciates artistic touches in restaurants, I believe it gives the space a much-needed enhancement.
They offer a wide selection of hot and cold tapas to start with before deciding on your meal of the night. I usually order Pork Tenderloin Medallions or Tuna Cubes.
After that, I have their Chicken Cordon Bleu, New York Strip, or Roasted Duck Breast with Sautéed Lump Crab. I also recommend sampling their Carrot Cake Stack if you have room for a creative dessert.
The Oar House
1000 S Pace Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-549-4444
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Another waterside restaurant minutes away from the Downtown district and Bayou Chico is The Oar House, a popular open-air spot for anyone who prefers a more summery feel for their dining experience. You can also enjoy a drink under their tiki roof as live music sets the mood.
They serve an excellent variety of Southern cuisine, so if you’re interested in having lunch, consider their Fried Fish & Shrimp Basket or Cordon Bleu Sandwich.
I also enjoy their Cajun BBQ Shrimp or Grouper Po’Boy for dinner. Don’t forget to try these dishes with a hearty side of cheese grits or hushpuppies.
The Fishing Hole
15 Brent Ln, Pensacola, FL 32505
Phone: 850-912-6664
Nestled within the Brentwood Shopping Center, The Fishing Hole is your best casual option for Southern-style seafood near the Melrose Park and Twelve Oaks neighborhoods.
Its relaxed and warm ambiance is a nice change of pace after a long week of experiencing the city’s beauty and visiting every major attraction in the area.
In my opinion, their best dishes are Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos, Catfish Dinner, Bayou Pasta, and Fried Mullet.
You should also consider asking your server about their catch of the day if you’re interested in something new every day. After dinner, I usually order a slice of key lime or banana pudding pie.
The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach
400 Pensacola Beach Blvd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Phone: 850-677-9153
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Do you prefer dining at elegant restaurants by the waterfront? Then, consider booking your next reservation at The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach.
This upscale, clubby eatery serves refined seafood, has an extensive drink list at their full bar, and offers an excellent view of Santa Rosa Sound and Pensacola Bay. Their decorative swordfish display enhances its nautical ambiance.
I prefer starting with their Crispy Lobster Fingers or BBQ Oysters from their oyster bar. After that, I typically order their Fried Gulf Shrimp, TGM Cheddar Burger, Grouper Piccata, or Loved & Rubbed Scottish Salmon. They also offer brunch on the weekends.
Ruby Slipper Cafe
509 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-792-4834
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I consider Ruby Slipper Cafe one of the best restaurants in Pensacola because of its wide selection of brunch options.
If you’re planning to take a cruise around Pensacola Bay, this casual and upbeat restaurant is a great place to energize yourself for the day. Enjoy authentic New Orleans flavors in your favorite classic dishes.
If you’re craving a filling brunch option, consider trying a mix and match Peacemaker Benedict Special.
I typically order this with their Corned Beef and Chicken St. Charles Benedicts. Be sure to enjoy it with seasonal beignets and a Ruby Mimosa, Sazerac Sipper, or Irish Coffee.
Fisherman’s Corner
13486 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL 32507
Phone: 850-791-6914
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Fisherman’s Corner is a seafood restaurant with a casual vibe located 2.5 miles from Big Lagoon State Park. Despite its compact size, it’s a relaxing place to unwind and eat near the water.
The restaurant’s decor emphasizes its nautical aesthetic, making it one of the most fascinating dining settings for anyone craving Creole flavors.
They offer a wide selection of sandwiches, fried seafood po’boys, and other enticing entrees. My favorite dinner option is their Peacemaker Sandwich, made with fried oysters, bacon, and cheddar cheese on Gambino bread.
The best side dishes you should consider ordering when trying this dish are Cajun Macaroni & Cheese or Fried Okra.
The Tuscan Oven Pizzeria
4801 N 9th Ave, Pensacola, FL 32503
Phone: 850-484-6836
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Are you having trouble finding quality pizza in Pensacola’s Brookview neighborhood? If so, The Tuscan Oven Pizzeria might have what you’re looking for.
This homey pizzeria is the best place to enjoy Southern Italian-style wood-fired pizzas after traversing around the city. They also offer delivery if you prefer enjoying pizza and pasta at home.
They have plenty of specialty pies if you’re not interested in customizing your own. I’m a fan of their Pietro, Bianca, Barbecue Chicken, and Seafood pies.
But, if you’re in the mood for something else, you can’t go wrong with their Meatball Pasta, Linguini with Clams, or Eggplant Parmesan.
Jaco’s Bayfront Bar & Grille
997 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-432-5226
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You can find Jaco’s Bayfront Bar & Grille a short walk away from Palafox Pier and the Plaza De Luna Memorial Monument. It has a laid-back vibe and an excellent waterfront marina view. It’s a great place to relax with your friends and family after spending your day at the beach or park.
I recommend sampling their Mediterranean Flatbread, Scallop Risotto, Chicken Scallopini, or Plaza De Luna Lasagna if you’re stopping by for dinner.
You can also enjoy drink discounts during their weekday Sunset Specials happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM. I also recommend treating yourself to their Drunken Berries or Deep Fried Oreos for dessert.
Ichiban
5555 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32503
Phone: 850-494-2227
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Located east of the Norwood neighborhood by The Home Depot, Ichiban is your best destination for enjoying traditional sushi and Asian cuisine in a casual, tatami-style setting.
They’re open all week for lunch and dinner, so you’re encouraged to try everything from Chef Lin’s menu.
During my last visit to Pensacola, I started with their Pork Shumai and Fried Calamari. Then, I had their Veggie Dragon Roll, Teriyaki Chicken Bento, and Seafood Salad. I also recommend their Beef Yaki Soba or Spicy Korean Pork Kal-Bi for lunch.
I like pairing these dishes with ginger tea, pink lemonade, or sparkling sake. I also love ordering their Fried Banana for dessert.
Jackson’s Steakhouse
400 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-469-9898
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Last but not least on my list of the best restaurants in Pensacola is Jackson’s Steakhouse, found within walking distance of the Pensacola Museum of Art.
This vintage restaurant offers premium steaks prepared by Executive Chef Irv Miller, making it an excellent fine dining option for anyone who prefers refined atmospheres with high ceilings.
In my opinion, their best dishes are Prime Ribeye, Gulf Coast Red Snapper, Double-Cut Elk Chop, and Tournedos Americana. I think they taste great with a side of whipped potatoes or grilled asparagus.
In addition, Jackson’s Steakhouse offers fixed-price private menus for special lunch, dinner, or brunch events. Be sure to treat yourself to their chocolate mousse for dessert.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, my list of the top restaurants in Pensacola can help you find a few new favorite places to eat if you’re looking for somewhere to unwind after exploring the city.
So, whether you prefer trying their local seafood by the clear waterfront and white sand or meat in the heart of the city, you’re bound to find something to enjoy when dining by yourself or with your family.
Did I leave out any restaurants on this list? Be sure to drop a comment below about your go-to dining destinations so I can check them out.
