In the past couple of decades, the restaurant scene in Pensacola Fl has come a long way. Before the 1990s and even the early 2000s, the city was considered a sleepy Navy town. But since then, the famous City of Five Flags has transitioned into a foodie paradise and a destination for tourists. What are the best places to eat in Pensacola?
There are several reasons for the transformation of the Navy town. Starting from the beautiful Pensacola beach, the warm weather year-round, and the rebirth of downtown Pensacola. Not to mention, the new minor league sports teams including the Ice Flyers and Blue Wahoos.
The city now even has its group on Facebook about food, the Pensacola Foodies Facebook Group. You will probably get dozens of different responses for the best places to eat in Pensacola.
Today, we will talk about some BBQ places, pizza places, seafood restaurants, and Mexican restaurants in the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle.
Why is Pensacola so famous?
Pensacola is considered a great place to live, especially if you want to raise a family in Florida. Pensacola is part of Escambia County, one of the largest metropolitan areas on the Gulf Coast. Pensacola is a laidback city praised for its carefree lifestyle.
Known for its rich heritage and place in America’s history, Pensacola is often referred to as the City of Five Flags. The city has changed ownership several times, including the Spanish, the French, the British, the Confederate, and the American flag have all flown over the beautiful city. The different cultures have also influenced local cuisine and food.
No matter if you want a family-friendly dining atmosphere, a night out, or a quick bite, Pensacola has plenty of places to choose from.
Top Restaurants in Pensacola
Restaurant Iron
This famous restaurant offers a southern flare with a contemporary twist. Every recipe is locally sourced, hand-made, and detail-focused.
The restaurant serves dinner in a comfortable and elegant southern-inspired setting. Over the years, Restaurant Iron has received plenty of awards, including the Golden Spoon Award by the Florida Trend Magazine.
Another Broken Egg Cafe
Another Broken Egg Cafe is one of the most famous breakfast restaurant options in Pensacola. It is located less than five minutes away from the oceanfront.
If you want to start your day with a delicious breakfast, this is the spot for that. You can enjoy different food choices, including seasonal meals, but also tasty dishes for your kids.
If you want to start your day on the sweet side, try the Strawberry Pound Cake FrenchToast. And if you prefer savory dishes, go for the Eggs Blackstone Benedict. That is an English muffin with grilled red tomato slices, poached eggs, chopped bacon, and green onions served with fresh potatoes and/or seasonal fruits.
Carmen’s Lunch Bar and Tapas
The highly acclaimed contemporary best restaurant serves New American dishes. This dining establishment is perfect for travelers, and a good place to find other tourists and travel buddies.
The cozy atmosphere is relaxing, and you have a menu catering to special diets. For example, if you are following a gluten-free diet, you can try the chicken salad plate. This dish includes light mayo, almonds, celery, mixed greens, sweet basil, cucumbers, golden raisins, and honey with balsamic vinegar dressing.
If you want to try their seafood, go for a light option like the Spanish Crab Melt, a seafood sandwich.
Taqueria El Asador
Pensacola is home to some of the best Mexican food restaurants on the Gulf Coast. Taqueria El Asador is one such place. It is a trailer-style Mexican grill serving delicious tacos and burritos in an outdoor setting.
The family-owned place prides itself on authentic Mexican fare. Most of the dishes are complemented by sides of beans and rice with jalapenos.
Taqueria offers you to try different flavors and pick your favorite. And you dine-in or take out your order.
Dharma Blue
This cozy and eclectic café is located in historic downtown Pensacola. It specializes in coastal American cuisine. Their extensive sushi menu is why tourists and locals go there. But there are also other types of seafood you can try.
Dharma Blue always has a fresh catch of the day. You can also order the chef’s daily creation.
If you are not much into seafood, options include rib-eye, paneed chicken, and the classic cheeseburger with fries. On Sunday, you can enjoy a brunch menu.
Ruby Slipper Cafe
Debuting in 2015, Ruby Slipper Cafe has quickly became a popular spot and charming eatery in downtown Pensacola.
It is the best place if you are looking for a special diet. They have a wide range of yummy food, but also some special diets.
For example, if you follow a keto diet, you can try the salmon avocado toast. Yet, if you like a signature dish, try the Sweet Heat Chicken and French Toast Bites.
The Global Grill
Opened in 2003, the Global Grill is a renowned New American best restaurant. It is located near many cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theaters.
The classy place decked with local artwork offers an intimate ambiance and quality service.
There are a couple of good options to try here. For example, the mushroom salad contains goat cheese, mushrooms, pecans, arugula, and a white truffle oil vinaigrette. Or you can try the Pesto crusted tuna for a fish-based entrée.
McGuires Irish Pub
There is no denying the popularity of Irish pubs in the past several years. They are everywhere. Pensacola Fl has one as well. And it is one of the best places to eat in Pensacola.
It is a must-visit for a fun night. You can stop by McGuires Irish Pub for lunch or dinner, and then stay for drinks and live music. The latter is available most nights.
5 Sisters Blues Café
Five Sisters Blues Café offers a harmonic blend of southern flavor and soulful music. It is located in the heart of the historic district.
Their menu is mostly focused on southern cuisine. But you can also find some Creole and Caribbean flair.
One of their signature dishes is Aunt Sara’s Southern Fried Chicken. You can also check some daily specials and house specialties.
5 Sisters Blues Café has regular live blues music.
New Yorker Deli and Pizzeria
Founded in 1991, New Yorker Deli and Pizzeria is a local-owned eatery specializing in Italian cuisine and Italian food. They bring a New York flavor to Pensacola.
The establishment is one of the best casual spots to eat with friends. While Italian food is often associated only with pizza, you can also try delectable appetizers, homemade soups, fresh salads, and more.
If you are in a group, there are lots of shareable plates. As for the pizza, the New Yorker Special is one of the most flavorful pizzas you will try. The topping consists of mushrooms, extra cheese, black olives, tomatoes, ground beef, green peppers, onions, pepperoni, meatballs, and of course, Italian sausages.
Do not worry, even vegetarians can try some. The vegetarian hot sub is quite the flavorful option as well.
The Fish House
This is where you can try southern seafood by the bay. The traditional southern restaurant offers fresh seafood in an upscale dockside dining area. The FIsh House overlooks the harbor and bay and serves an array of seafood dishes including Gulf shrimp, sushi, and catch of the day.
And if you are not into seafood, you can try dishes like steak, grits, mushrooms, cheese, onions, and bacon.
Alice’s Restaurant
The place for wine lovers. They specialize in Gulf Coast cuisine and fine wines. Its owner is a self-described foodie who saw a need for the revival of the classics.
They serve casual comfort food with their menu ranging from fresh seafood and steaks to unique selections like lamb lollipops.
Hot Spot Barbecue
The award-winning eatery serves smoked meats in a casual setting. Many call it the best birthday restaurant in Pensacola. The full-service catering, experienced professionals, customizable decorations, and a private venue for special events make it a great place for groups and gatherings.
There is a wide selection of flavorful dishes and decadent desserts. Our choice is the Beef Brisket, a tender and savory meat dish. Leave room for dessert and try Paul’s Lemon Cream Pie.
The Oar House
Think of a tiki-style restaurant and bar that serves American fare. That is the Oar house, with a menu consisting of burgers, steak, and chicken.
Of course, you can try the local favorites like gator bites, tuna dip, and grits.
For your evening out, order some specialty cocktails or wine and enjoy a night of live music and watching the boats at the marina.
Seafoods station
We finish off our list of best places to eat in Pensacola with a place with authentic Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine. Their menu includes fresh seafood, Cajun dishes, or sushi.
The local and family-owned restaurant has a history of more than 80 years.
Every item on the menu is cooked and prepared fresh to your order. Some of their best dishes include fried fish baskets, boiled or steamed seafood, and fried shrimp.
Hi, I’m a clinical psychologist and inclined towards best buying practices for home and kitchen things. Critical towards choosing the best product and honest with my feedback. I’m a seasoned writer having more than 4 years of experience in multiple niches as well.
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