Pensacola's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

Hi there! I'm your friendly neighborhood seafood enthusiast, and I've had the pleasure of diving headfirst into Pensacola's vibrant seafood scene.

With my taste buds tingling and my appetite in full swing, I set out to uncover the hidden gems and mouthwatering delights that this coastal gem has to offer. After devouring my way through a whopping twelve seafood joints, I am now ready to spill the beans on the absolute best seafood in Pensacola.

So sit back, relax, and prepare for a lighthearted culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more.

The Fish House

Highlights
Quick service
Amazing shrimp and grits
Something for everyone on the menu
Best tasting food
Unique and delicious meal

Let me start by saying that the service at The Fish House was incredibly quick, which is always a plus when you're hungry and craving seafood. As soon as I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the staff and promptly seated at a cozy table overlooking the water.

Now onto the star of the show - the food. Let me tell you, the shrimp and grits at The Fish House are absolutely amazing. The shrimp was perfectly succulent and cooked to perfection, while the grits were creamy and flavorful. It was a match made in seafood heaven.

But what really impressed me about The Fish House was the extensive menu. They truly have something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of traditional seafood dishes like crab cakes and oysters Rockefeller, or you're more adventurous and want to try something unique like their famous Grits à Ya Ya, there's no doubt you'll find something to tantalize your taste buds.

Speaking of taste buds, every bite of food I had at The Fish House was bursting with flavor. From the freshness of the seafood to the carefully crafted seasonings, it was clear that the chefs here take pride in delivering the best tasting food possible.

In conclusion, The Fish House in Pensacola is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The quick service, amazing shrimp and grits, and diverse menu make it a standout among the seafood establishments in the area. If you're looking for a unique and delicious meal, this is the place to go.

You might also want to check out the best seafood boil in Pensacola.

Fin & Fork

Highlights
Great food
Fresh seafood
Attentive service
Wide drink selection
Beautiful interior

Upon entering Fin & Fork, I was immediately captivated by its beautiful interior. The coastal-inspired decor and cozy ambiance set the tone for a delightful dining experience. As soon as I sat down, I was greeted by a friendly and attentive server, which immediately made me feel welcomed.

The menu at Fin & Fork boasts an array of fresh seafood options that left me spoilt for choice. I couldn't resist starting with their famous oysters which were shucked to perfection and brimming with flavor. The crab cakes were another standout, with a golden crust and a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth interior that made my taste buds dance with delight.

What impressed me the most about Fin & Fork was not just the quality of the food, but also the attentive service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was exceptional. They were knowledgeable about the menu and eager to make recommendations that suited my preferences.

To complement the seafood feast, Fin & Fork offers a wide drink selection with an impressive assortment of wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails. Their mixologists certainly know how to create unique and refreshing libations that perfectly complemented my meal.

Overall, my experience at Fin & Fork was nothing short of excellent. From the warm hospitality to the delectable dishes, this seafood haven truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best seafood restaurants in Pensacola. Whether you're a local or visiting the area, a trip to Fin & Fork is a must for seafood lovers seeking an unforgettable culinary adventure.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Pensacola Beach.

Captain Joey Patti's Seafood & Saloon

Highlights
Great Seafood
Big Seafood Platter
Delicious Salsa
Awesome Chicken Fingers
Cool Atmosphere

From the moment I stepped inside Captain Joey Patti's Seafood & Saloon, I could tell I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was cool, with a touch of nautical charm that made me feel as if I had stepped onto a ship. As I perused the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to the section on great seafood.

After much contemplation, I decided to go for the big seafood platter, which promised a delightful selection of the ocean's bounty. I was not disappointed. The platter arrived at my table, piled high with succulent shrimp, crispy fish, tender scallops, and juicy crab cakes. Each bite was a revelation, bursting with the freshness and flavor that can only be found in the finest seafood.

But the surprises didn't end there. As I dipped my fork into a small dish of delicious salsa, I couldn't help but be impressed by the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, fiery jalapeños, and aromatic herbs. It added just the right amount of zing to the already exquisite seafood.

Now, I must confess, I have a weakness for chicken fingers. So, I couldn't resist trying Captain Joey Patti's version. And oh boy, am I glad I did! The awesome chicken fingers were crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. It was a surprising yet delightful addition to the meal.

All in all, my experience at Captain Joey Patti's Seafood & Saloon was nothing short of amazing. With its incredible seafood options, delectable salsa, and the unexpected delight of the chicken fingers, this place truly knows how to satisfy even the most discerning seafood lover. So, if you find yourself in Pensacola, be sure to head over to Captain Joey Patti's for a seafood experience you won't soon forget.

You might also want to check out the best seafood market in Pensacola FL.

The District: Seville Steak & Seafood

Highlights
Classy atmosphere
Well-cooked steaks
Excellent seafood
Amazing cocktails

From the moment I stepped into The District, I was immediately impressed by its classy atmosphere. The elegant decor and dim lighting create a warm and inviting ambiance, making it the ideal place for a special night out or a romantic dinner.

Now, let's get down to the seafood. The District surpassed my expectations with their excellent seafood options. From the moment my plate arrived, I could tell that every dish was crafted with care and attention to detail. The freshness of the seafood was undeniable, and each bite was a burst of flavor. Whether you're a fan of succulent shrimp, delicate scallops, or flavorful fish, The District has got you covered.

But wait, it's not just about the seafood! The restaurant also prides itself on its exceptional steaks. I couldn't resist trying their well-cooked steaks, and oh boy, they did not disappoint. The cuts were juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection. Each bite was like a little slice of heaven.

To complement the delicious food, The District also offers an array of amazing cocktails. I indulged myself in their creative concoctions, and the flavors were sensational. From classic martinis to innovative twists, their drink menu has something for everyone.

In conclusion, if you're seeking the best seafood in Pensacola, look no further than The District: Seville Steak & Seafood. Its classy ambiance, well-cooked steaks, excellent seafood, and amazing cocktails make it a top-notch choice for seafood enthusiasts. It's truly an experience worth savoring.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Pensacola FL.

The Fishing Hole Pensacola Restaurant

Highlights
Great alfredo sauce
Amazing blackened tilapia
Bacon wrapped shrimp
Friendly staff
Good for picky eaters

Walking into The Fishing Hole, I was immediately greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant had a rustic charm that made me feel like I was stepping into a coastal fishing village.

Now, let's talk about the highlights. One thing that stood out was the great alfredo sauce. Creamy, rich, and perfectly seasoned, it brought a delightful twist to the seafood dishes on the menu. Pair it with the amazing blackened tilapia and you're in for a treat. The tilapia was cooked to perfection, with a flavorful crust that added just the right amount of kick.

For those craving a little indulgence, the bacon wrapped shrimp was a showstopper. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, with the smoky bacon complementing the tender shrimp. It's the kind of dish that makes you want to savor every single bite.

Aside from the fantastic food, I was impressed by the friendly staff. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure a delightful dining experience. If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, they are more than willing to accommodate, making The Fishing Hole a great choice for picky eaters.

In conclusion, The Fishing Hole Pensacola Restaurant has certainly made its mark on the seafood scene in Pensacola. With its great alfredo sauce, amazing blackened tilapia, bacon wrapped shrimp, and friendly staff, it has everything you need for a memorable seafood meal. So, if you're in the mood for some playful and professional seafood experience, I highly recommend you drop by The Fishing Hole Pensacola Restaurant.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in South Padre.

Nick's Boathouse

Highlights
Creole inspired seafood
Boom-Boom shrimp tacos
Friendly staff
Gouda cheese grits
Great key lime pie

Walking into Nick's Boathouse, I was immediately captivated by the lively atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of Creole-inspired seafood wafting through the air. The menu boasted a tempting array of dishes, but one item that caught my eye was the Boom-Boom shrimp tacos. Intrigued, I decided to give them a try.

As soon as my plate arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. The golden-brown shrimp were perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a generous dollop of tangy boom-boom sauce adding a delightful kick. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me craving more.

The staff at Nick's Boathouse were not only friendly but knowledgeable, providing recommendations and ensuring excellent service throughout my meal. They made me feel right at home, adding to the overall positive dining experience.

One side dish that stood out was the gouda cheese grits. Creamy and rich with just the right amount of cheese, it was the perfect accompaniment to the seafood. The grits had a comforting texture that complemented the flavors of the main dish superbly.

Of course, no seafood meal is complete without dessert, and Nick's Boathouse did not disappoint. Their key lime pie was the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a light and fluffy whipped cream topping that added a delightful touch.

Overall, my experience at Nick's Boathouse was a seafood lover's dream. From the delectable Boom-Boom shrimp tacos to the friendly staff and the heavenly gouda cheese grits, every aspect of my meal was a testament to why Nick's Boathouse is one of the best seafood spots in Pensacola.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in South Jersey.

Pearl & Horn

Highlights
Friendly service
Amazing food and drinks
Delicious key lime tart
Fantastic calamari
Gluten free options

As soon as I walked through the doors of Pearl & Horn, I was warmly greeted by their friendly staff. The service was attentive and knowledgeable, creating a pleasant atmosphere from the very start.

Now, let's talk about the reason we're all here: the food. And oh my, was it amazing! The seafood at Pearl & Horn is truly a delight for the taste buds. Each dish is made with care and expertise, resulting in flavors that are fresh, bold, and absolutely delicious.

One dish that I couldn't get enough of was their calamari. It was cooked to perfection - tender, crispy, and not the slightest bit rubbery. The accompanying dipping sauce added just the right amount of tanginess, elevating the dish to a whole new level.

For dessert, I indulged in their key lime tart, and let me tell you, it was a slice of heaven. The creamy filling had just the right balance of tartness and sweetness, and the buttery crust was simply perfect. It was a delightful end to a perfect meal.

Another thing worth mentioning is that Pearl & Horn also caters to those with dietary restrictions. They offer a variety of gluten-free options, making it a suitable dining destination for everyone.

Overall, my experience at Pearl & Horn was nothing short of fantastic. With their friendly service, amazing food and drinks, and attention to dietary needs, Pearl & Horn has certainly earned its spot in the list of the best seafood restaurants in Pensacola.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Southern California.

The Oar House

Highlights
Lovely outdoor seating
Delicious food
Great casual vibe
Amazing hush puppies
Perfect Key Lime pie

Upon arriving at The Oar House, I was immediately drawn to the lovely outdoor seating. With a view of the picturesque marina, it provided the perfect ambiance for a seafood feast. The casual yet professional staff greeted me warmly and led me to my table.

As I perused the menu, I was excited to see a wide variety of seafood options. From fresh catches of the day to classic dishes, The Oar House did not disappoint. I decided to start with their acclaimed hush puppies. Let me tell you, these little bites of heaven were amazing. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they were the perfect way to whet my appetite.

For my main course, I opted for their catch of the day, a mouthwatering mahi-mahi. Cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor, it was a seafood lover's dream. Each bite filled my palate with a delightful combination of delicate textures and savory taste.

But the real showstopper came at the end of the meal - the Key Lime pie. Made with a tangy yet creamy filling and a perfectly buttery crust, it was the epitome of dessert perfection. Each bite was like a tropical paradise in my mouth.

Overall, my experience at The Oar House was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of delicious food, great casual vibe, and attentive service make it a standout seafood destination in Pensacola. I can confidently say that The Oar House deserves a spot on any list of the best seafood in Pensacola.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Southern Maine.

Maria's Olde East Hill Grill

Highlights
Not overwhelming and feels very authentic
Delicious oysters, po boys, gumbo, and more
Staff treats you like an old friend
Great, fresh food every time
Shrimp and grits were divine

Walking into Maria's Olde East Hill Grill, I immediately felt a sense of comfort and warmth. The atmosphere was not overwhelming and felt very authentic, which immediately set the tone for a delightful seafood experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I begin? The oysters were so fresh and delicious, they practically melted in my mouth. And the po boys? Phenomenal doesn't even begin to describe their scrumptiousness. Each bite was packed with flavor and served on the most perfectly toasted bread.

If you're a fan of gumbo, then you're in for a treat at Maria's. Their gumbo is rich, flavorful, and filled with a generous mix of seafood and spices that will make your taste buds explode with joy. And trust me, the seafood is always fresh. Maria's maintains a high standard of quality, ensuring that every bite is a delight.

But what truly sets Maria's apart is the welcoming staff. From the moment I walked in, I felt like an old friend. The knowledgeable servers were more than happy to guide me through the menu and provide recommendations based on my preferences. Their genuine hospitality only enhanced the overall dining experience.

Lastly, let me rave about the shrimp and grits. Divine. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, plump, and seasoned to perfection. Paired with creamy, velvety grits, this dish was an absolute dream come true. This is the kind of meal that will have you daydreaming about it for days to come.

If you find yourself in Pensacola and craving some seafood, I highly recommend making your way to Maria's Olde East Hill Grill. Not only will you enjoy some of the best seafood in town, but you'll also be treated like family. It's truly a delightful experience that should not be missed!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Southport NC.

Bonefish Grill

Highlights
Perfect environment
Outstanding food
Classy seafood experience
Yummy appetizers
Entertaining waiter

Walking into the restaurant, I immediately noticed the perfect environment that Bonefish Grill provided. With its sleek and modern decor, dim lighting, and soothing background music, I felt like I had stepped into a classy seafood oasis.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but become excited by the options available. The extensive selection of seafood dishes made it clear that Bonefish Grill takes pride in delivering an outstanding food experience. From the fresh catch of the day to their signature wood-grilled fish, there was something for every seafood lover.

To start my meal, I couldn't resist trying one of their yummy appetizers. I opted for the Bang Bang Shrimp, and it did not disappoint. The crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce left me yearning for more.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me at Bonefish Grill. The classy seafood experience was enhanced by an attentive and entertaining waiter. His knowledge of the menu and his ability to engage with customers created an enjoyable dining experience.

Overall, Bonefish Grill in Pensacola truly stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in the area. With a perfect environment, outstanding food, tasty appetizers, and a delightful waiter, it's a place that any seafood enthusiast should visit.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in South Florida.

Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille

Highlights
Amazing view
Delicious crab cakes
Great Key Lime tart
Excellent service
Scenic outdoor seating

With its amazing view of the bay, Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille instantly captivates your senses. Nestled in a picturesque location, this restaurant is truly a hidden gem in Pensacola.

My dining experience at Jaco's began with their renowned crab cakes, and I was not disappointed. Succulent, flavorful, and expertly seasoned, these crab cakes were a seafood lover's dream. Each bite was a delightful explosion of taste, leaving me craving for more.

For dessert, I indulged in their Key Lime tart. The tangy yet sweet filling perfectly complemented the buttery crust. It was a refreshing and satisfying finale to my seafood feast.

What truly sets Jaco's apart is the excellent service I received. The staff was attentive, friendly, and provided insightful suggestions when it came to selecting dishes. They genuinely cared about ensuring my dining experience was memorable.

Another highlight of Jaco's is the scenic outdoor seating. Whether you choose to dine on their patio or balcony, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the bay. There's something magical about enjoying delicious seafood while being surrounded by the beauty of nature.

In conclusion, Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grille is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts in Pensacola. From the unparalleled view to the mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend trying their crab cakes and saving room for their delightful Key Lime tart. With its combination of delicious food, excellent service, and enchanting ambiance, Jaco's certainly deserves a spot among the best seafood spots in Pensacola.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in South Padre Island.

Dharma Blue

Highlights
Amazing sushi
Smoked tuna dip
Delicious fish specials
Lovely ambiance

As soon as I walked into Dharma Blue, I was immediately drawn in by the lovely ambiance. The combination of rustic and modern decor created the perfect setting to enjoy some sensational seafood.

Now, let's talk about the food! The sushi at Dharma Blue was simply amazing. Each roll was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. From the creamy avocado to the tangy pickled ginger, every bite was a delight. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of raw fish, Dharma Blue has something to satisfy your cravings.

If sushi isn't your thing, fear not! Dharma Blue also offers a mouthwatering smoked tuna dip. This appetizer is a must-try. It's creamy, smoky, and absolutely addictive. Spread it generously on the accompanying crispy crostini, and you'll be in seafood heaven.

However, the real highlight of Dharma Blue is their delicious fish specials. Their menu changes regularly, offering a variety of fresh catches from the Gulf of Mexico. Whether it's grilled grouper served with a zesty citrus sauce or pan-seared snapper with a delicate herb-infused butter, each dish is a true culinary masterpiece.

In conclusion, Dharma Blue is a seafood lover's paradise. Its amazing sushi, smoked tuna dip, and delicious fish specials keep patrons coming back for more. Not to mention the lovely ambiance that enhances the dining experience. I highly recommend giving Dharma Blue a try when exploring the best seafood in Pensacola.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in South Lake Tahoe.