Best Seafood Bars and Restaurants in Destin, Florida

Best Seafood Bars and Restaurants in Destin, Florida

Fish so fresh it might slap you. Here’s where to get the best seafood in Destin.

Destin didn’t get its “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” nickname for nothing. This town is swimming in fresh Gulf seafood—and thankfully, the chefs know what to do with it. From high-end harborfront restaurants to oyster bars with live music, the seafood scene here is as diverse as your appetite after a beach day.

So whether you’re craving blackened grouper, buttery lobster tails, or oysters by the dozen, here are the best seafood bars and restaurants in Destin that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.

🌅 The Edge Seafood Restaurant & SkyBar

Let’s start with a view. The Edge is perched on the Destin harbor and offers sunset dinners that hit like a rom-com ending. The seafood is fresh, the cocktails are photo-worthy, and the rooftop SkyBar turns dinner into a whole experience. Pro tip: show up early and let happy hour roll straight into dinner.

Must-Try Dishes: Crab-stuffed grouper, lobster bisque, tuna poke bowl

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Crab-stuffed grouper and cocktails at The Edge Seafood and SkyBar in Destin Florida
Crab-stuffed grouper and cocktails at The Edge Seafood and SkyBar in Destin Florida

🍷 Marina Cafe

Marina Cafe is upscale, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. With stunning views of the harbor, sleek modern vibes, and a menu stacked with fresh-caught favorites, it’s a go-to for date night or celebratory dinners. Half-off wine before 6 p.m.? Don’t mind if we do.

Must-Try Dishes: Seared scallops, grouper imperial, sushi rolls

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Fine dining seafood dinner at Marina Cafe in Destin Florida

🦐 Louisiana Lagniappe

Looking for southern seafood with Cajun flair? Louisiana Lagniappe is your spot. This waterfront gem has been serving up Gulf seafood with a Creole twist since the ‘80s. The hush puppies are hot, the fish is flaky, and the étouffée is downright spiritual.

Must-Try Dishes: Shrimp and grits, blackened mahi, grouper meunière

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Shrimp and grits and Gulf seafood specialties at Louisiana Lagniappe in Destin Florida

🍤 Emeril’s Coastal

Yes, Emeril. Yes, seafood. Emeril’s Coastal blends classic Gulf flavors with elevated plating and modern flair. You’ll find dishes like miso-glazed snapper, Florida stone crab, and a rotating raw bar selection—all in a cool, coastal-chic setting that’s surprisingly relaxed for a celebrity chef’s kitchen.

Must-Try Dishes: Snapper ceviche, seafood pasta, miso-glazed fish of the day

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Seafood pasta and raw bar selections at Emeril’s Coastal restaurant in Destin Florida

🦪 AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

AJ’s is Destin’s not-so-secret weapon for casual seafood, cold drinks, and serious vibes. The menu leans toward comfort classics (fried shrimp baskets, crab legs, oysters on the half shell), and the live music and harborfront seating make it one of the best all-around hangs in town. Great for groups, great for day drinking, great for “one more round.”

Must-Try Dishes: Steamed snow crab, oyster sampler, fried fish sandwich

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Seafood basket and drinks at AJ’s Oyster Bar on the harbor in Destin Florida

🐟 Wrap It Up

From elegant entrees to buckets of fried everything, these seafood bars in Destin prove that the Gulf Coast knows how to eat. Whether you’re splurging or slurping oysters in flip flops, this town delivers the flavor. And you’ll definitely want to come hungry.

🎉 Find all this and more on AppyHour® — the easiest way to discover real-time food specials, drink deals, and coastal gems near you.