Best Southern American Restaurants in Pensacola Beach

14 restaurants available nearby

1. Drift

4.7

Exceptional(1105)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pensacola

Booked 17 times today

Nestled on the stunning Gulf of Mexico in Pensacola Beach, Drift offers an unparalleled dining experience, combining the best of American cuisine with breathtaking views. Recognized as the "Best Restaurant on Pensacola Beach" and lauded for having the "Best Steakhouse" and "Best Happy Hour" in Pensacola in 2022, Drift boasts a menu that celebrates fine American dining with expertly prepared steaks and fresh seafood. Guests rave about the "outstanding" Prime Rib Dinner and the exceptional service, with one diner noting, "The food was terrific, and the service was excellent." Whether you're savoring a sunset with specialty cocktails during their acclaimed Happy Hour or enjoying a sumptuous Sunday dinner, Drift promises a culinary journey that's as spectacular as its setting.

A photo of Whiskey Joe’s Pensacola Beach on the Boardwalk restaurant

2. Whiskey Joe’s Pensacola Beach on the Boardwalk

3.8

Excellent(185)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Pensacola Beach

Booked 3 times today

Whiskey Joe’s Pensacola Beach offers an unparalleled Dining Bar experience, perfectly blending tropical ambiance with exceptional service. Nestled right on the boardwalk of Pensacola Beach, this spot boasts a vibrant atmosphere where diners can revel in stunning waterfront views and spectacular sunsets. Patrons consistently praise its "excellent food" and the "great vibe" enhanced by live music and a friendly staff. Highlights include the gator bites and a diverse cocktail menu, celebrated during their lively happy hour. Reviewers rave about experiences like "The food and drinks were excellent," underscoring the quality and authenticity that make Whiskey Joe’s a must-visit destination for an authentic Dining Bar cuisine.

A photo of Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar restaurant

3. Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar

new

4.3

Awesome(2)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Pensacola Beach

Booked 4 times today

Join us at Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar for a laidback hangout at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk featuring oysters, Cajun cooking, and cocktails.

A photo of The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach restaurant

4. The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach

4.8

Exceptional(6957)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Pensacola

Booked 70 times today

The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach is a treasure trove of the finest seafood, celebrated for its "fresh and cooked perfectly" offerings, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. With daily menus crafted to showcase the freshest local bounty, diners rave about dishes like the "best grouper I've ever eaten" and the "always perfect" shrimp. The authentic flavors, combined with the picturesque views of Santa Rosa Sound, create a dining experience where every meal is both a discovery and a delight. Happy diners often remark it's their go-to spot, with accolades like "best seafood I’ve ever had" underscoring its reputation. Whether it's the shucked-to-order oysters or the celebrated Grouper Picatta, The Grand Marlin promises a memorable culinary adventure in Pensacola Beach.

A photo of The Union Public House restaurant

5. The Union Public House

4.8

Exceptional(1596)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Pensacola

Booked 28 times today

The Union Public House in Pensacola is a gem for those who savor Contemporary American cuisine with a Southern twist. Patrons consistently praise its "delicious, hearty Southern-style meals" that never fail to impress. Whether it's the "best tuna tartare" served with a truffle soy vinaigrette or the "perfectly cooked" slow as molasses cured and smoked pork butt, each dish showcases a crafty blend of innovation and tradition. The atmosphere is described as having a "perfect vibe," and service that always goes above and beyond, making UPH a must-visit destination. As one reviewer puts it, UPH "blows all the big name places out of the water," making it not just a meal, but an experience.

6. Restaurant IRON

4.9

Exceptional(2800)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pensacola

Booked 16 times today

Restaurant IRON in Pensacola offers a memorable journey through Southern contemporary cuisine with a twist of local flair. Executive Chef Alex McPhail, who honed his skills in renowned New Orleans kitchens, brings authenticity and innovation to each dish. Praised as "the best restaurant in Pensacola," diners rave about the "extraordinary" food and the ambiance that makes every visit special. Highlights include the "best shrimp and grits ever" and a seasonal menu that captures the essence of the South with fresh, local ingredients. A frequent diner enthused, "The food here is extraordinary! Every item on the plate has a purpose." Restaurant IRON ensures a Southern dining experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.

7. Brother Fox

4.7

Exceptional(144)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pensacola

Booked 13 times today

Brother Fox in Pensacola stands out as a beacon of Southern cuisine, skillfully blending traditional flavors with a unique Spanish twist. The restaurant's live-fire cooking technique is a testament to its authenticity and commitment to delivering heartwarming Southern dishes. Patrons rave about the "best I've ever had" blackened redfish and the "excellent" chargrilled oysters, highlighting the exceptional quality of the food. The atmosphere, described as a perfect mix of upscale and casual, complements the soulful dining experience. As one reviewer puts it, Brother Fox is not just a meal; it's an "unforgettable food experience," making it a must-visit destination in Old East Hill, Pensacola.

8. O'Brien's Bistro

4.8

Exceptional(445)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Pensacola

Booked 5 times today

O'Brien's Bistro in Pensacola has carved out a reputation as a prime destination for exquisite seafood, earning glowing reviews for its authenticity and quality. Voted the Best Casual Dining Restaurant, this locally owned gem offers a chef-operated experience that promises a personal touch to every dish. Patrons rave about the "exceptionally good" seafood, with favorites like the "Parmesan crusted Sea Scallops with mushroom risotto" that are said to "melt in your mouth." The seafood specials consistently impress, with one reviewer celebrating the "succulent baked oysters Rockefeller" and another the "delicious" shrimp and grits. Each visit to O'Brien's Bistro is a culinary journey into the heart of Pensacola's seafood excellence, making it a must-visit for anyone craving the true flavor of the sea.

A photo of The Melting Pot - Pensacola restaurant

9. The Melting Pot - Pensacola

4.5

Awesome(795)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pensacola

Booked 14 times today

Experience the quintessential American dining adventure at The Melting Pot in Pensacola, FL, where fondue takes center stage, offering a delightful twist on classic American cuisine. From the first dip into the rich, artisanal cheese fondue seasoned to perfection, to the final swirl in a decadent chocolate fondue, each course is an experience in itself. Praised for its "scrummy after-dinner treats" and service that makes special occasions unforgettable, this restaurant excels in delivering a high-quality, interactive culinary affair. Patrons rave about the ambiance and "amazing" food, ensuring that whether it's a romantic evening, a family gathering, or a celebration, The Melting Pot provides a uniquely American, memorable dining experience.

A photo of Slick Lips Seafood and Oyster House - Pensacola restaurant

10. Slick Lips Seafood and Oyster House - Pensacola

4.1

Excellent(43)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Pensacola

Slick Lips Seafood and Oyster House in downtown Pensacola is a jewel for American cuisine lovers, offering an authentic taste of coastal delights. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming environment that complements its meticulously crafted menu. Patrons rave about the seafood, with one guest noting, "the scallop dish was the best scallops I've ever had!" The authenticity of the American seafood experience is further highlighted by their famed oysters and brunch options, making it a must-visit spot. Slick Lips not only promises delicious meals but also an unforgettable dining experience, making it a standout in Pensacola's culinary scene.

‘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

D
Debi
New York City •11 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We are a big fan of the head chef Darian having first seen him win on the tv show Chopped. As always we were not disappointed with my Birthday meal! The grilled oysters were amazing and the portion size of the carne asada for 2 was enough for 4! Definitely one of our top favorite restaurants in Pensacola! Wait staff were also wonderful and VERY attentive.
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Brother FoxPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Pensacola
•
4.7
T
Tami
Austin •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Loved this place. The cocktails are creative and full of flavor. The beef carpaccio is a must as well as the charred pineapple Margarita
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The Union Public HousePrice: Moderate• Gastro Pub• Pensacola
•
4.8
S
Shane
Northwest Florida •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Once again, Iron knocked it out of the park. We started with the black garlic gnocchi escargot, which was excellent as always. My wife went with the lamb. Cooked perfectly and excellent flavor. I tried something different in the country fried venison with yukon gold mashed and collards. Might just be the best southern staple turned into fine dining I've ever experienced. In short, another outstanding meal with exception service from Iron.
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Restaurant IRONPrice: Expensive• Regional American (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
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Aragon CafePrice: Moderate• Regional American (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• Regional American (Southern)• Pensacola
•
4.6

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Pensacola Beach

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14 restaurants available nearby

1. Drift

2. Whiskey Joe’s Pensacola Beach on the Boardwalk

3. Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar

4. The Grand Marlin of Pensacola Beach

5. The Union Public House

6. Restaurant IRON

7. Brother Fox

8. O'Brien's Bistro

9. The Melting Pot - Pensacola

10. Slick Lips Seafood and Oyster House - Pensacola

See what locals rave about

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