After all the votes were counted, one sandwich stood above all others as Panama City Beach’s number #1 sandwich. By your vote, the resounding winner isLiza’s Kitchen’s Hippy Chick, a filling, delicious panini-baked treat that if you haven’t tried yet, you’re behind the times, my friend. Here’s the low down on this tasty dish.

While the Hippy Chick may be Liza’s Kitchen’s signature and most beloved sandwich, it wasn’t the first sandwich on the menu. “When we we’re making the switch from fine dining to lunches, we spent a lot of time thinking about what sandwiches we wanted to make.” Says, Mike Meek, head chef and one of Liza’s owners. “We knew we wanted the portebello and the roast beef pimento. In fact, the sandwich we thought was going to be the most popular was the turkey brie. But it’s the Hippy Chick. By far the favorite.”

An absolutely dynamite sandwich, the Hippy Chick’s ingredients consist of a carefully chosen array of flavors; freshly made focaccia bread, goat cheese, roasted chicken, roasted red pepper, spinach and a spicy mustard made in-house. All of it is pressed together in a panini-press and heated all the way through. What you have then is perfectly seasoned meat, zesty spice and melted goat cheese to smooth the whole thing over, giving you a spicy kick in a creamy first bite.

Head over to Liza’s and have a Hippy Chick. It’s not only a tasty sandwich, it is the undisputed, BEST sandwich on Panama City Beach.

see the vote: click here

1. Saltwater Grill. The former home of Panama City Brewery, Saltwater Grill has boasted a unique dining experience since the restaurant opened in 2002. A 25,000 gallon saltwater aquarium provides a breathtaking backdrop to your meal, featuring a tropical reef filled with colorful and exotic sea life. In addition to this dazzling marine display, Saltwater Grill is also famous for its succulent seafood and choice hand-cut steaks. Try the black and white tuna – sesame seared Ahi tuna over bok choy and Napa cabbage slaw with a ginger soy glaze and wasabi, or perhaps a hickory grilled steak cooked to perfection. As a complement to your meal, diners can also enjoy the music of Michael Rorah as he performs piano favorites. (Tuesdays through Saturdays.) Located at 11040 Middle Beach Road, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 230 2739 for more details.
2. Caliza Restaurant at Alys Beach. If you are looking for a truly breathtaking dining experience, look no further than Caliza’s. Just a little west of Panama City Beach, Caliza Restaurant at Alys Beach is the newest place to dine on scenic 30A. Looking like it belongs on Miami’s South Beach or within a ritzy Californian hotel, the restaurant features open air dining poolside and superb cuisine meticulously prepared by Chef Olivier Gaupin. Choose from handmade fresh pastas, grilled steak specialties, fresh seafood including Florida lobster, and more. Located at 23 Nonesuch Way, Alys Beach. Call (850) 213 5700 for more details.
3. Captain Anderson’s Waterfront Restaurant & Market. A Panama City Beach favorite, Captain Anderson’s has been serving seafood specialties for over 40 years, and boasts beautiful views of Grand Lagoon coupled with a spectacular menu that keeps loyal customers coming back year after year. This award-winning restaurant has been named among America’s top 50 restaurants and was inducted into the Restaurant Hall of Fame in 2005. Menu selections include She Crab Pie – catch of the day and blue crab meat baked in a pastry puff and served with she crab sauce, and certified Angus beef grilled churrasco steak – an 8 oz. signature steak seasoned tenderloin Nicaraguan cut with grilled Bermuda onions. Located at 5551 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 234 2225 for more details.
4. Destin Chops. Located in stylish Rosemary Beach, Destin Chops is 30A’s premier steakhouse with a contemporary twist. A sleek and cosmopolitan atmosphere features backlit liquor bottles illuminated in blues, greens and oranges, plush leather seating, and dim lighting throughout. The extensive international wine collection is encased in a twenty foot zebra wood wine wall, and the menu offers fine steakhouse fare, exotic sushi, Gulf seafood and Maine lobster. Top off your meal with a port or brandy and a decadent dessert, or relax in the chic cocktail bar. Destin Chops is located at 10343 East Highway 30A, Seacrest Beach. Call (850) 231 4050 for more details.
5. Boars Head Restaurant & Tavern. This casual fine dining restaurant is a Florida Trend Top 500 restaurant and has been popular with Panama City Beach visitors and locals alike for over 30 years. Specializing in fresh gulf seafood and prime rib, The Boars Head is both elegant and rustic, offering diners a unique and relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy the fantastic food, wines and live music. Sample the world-class prime rib or New York Strip steak, the signature fried lobster, or perhaps the excellent yellow fin tuna – the best in the area. The Boars Head Restaurant and Tavern is located at 17290 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 234 6628 for more details.
6. Firefly Restaurant. Firefly Restaurant is a casual fine dining establishment located in the Edgewater Shopping Plaza. Step through the doors and you will feel as though you have been transported to a Mediterranean bistro, thanks to the graceful, warm ambience and romantic outdoor setting under a grand oak tree. Firefly serves up fresh, local seafood, succulent meat dishes, handmade pastas and imported specialties, all of which are beautifully presented. Try the mint pesto crusted Australian rack of lamb, the apple wood bacon wrapped shrimp, or the sautéed gulf grouper. Exquisite desserts and a fine wine list complement the experience. Located at 535 R. Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 249 3359 for more details.
7. Bud & Alley’s. To experience this Open Table.com Diner’s Choice 2009 Winner, you’ll need to drive the 15 minutes or so to beautiful Seaside – but it’s definitely worth it. Bud & Alley’s is South Walton’s longest established restaurant, and boasts a stunning setting in the dunes overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Bud & Alley’s has garnered numerous awards including Florida Trend Magazines Golden Spoon Award designating the eatery as one of the top 20 restaurants in Florida, as well as receiving a five star designation from the Tallahassee Democrat and annually winning Wine Spectator Magazines Award of Excellence. Entrees include Bud & Alley’s crab cakes served with sugar snaps, mashed potatoes and lemon butter, and grilled sesame crusted tuna with baby bok choy, Napa cabbage, soba noodles and a roasted red pepper coulis. Located at 2236 East Highway 30A, Seaside. Call (850) 231 5900 for more details.

Unfortunately the new location came with some electrical problems and housed Bayou on the Beach for just one year. After eighteen months passed, the family decided it was time to reestablish Bayou on the Beach as Panama City Beach’s premier spot for authentic Cajun cooking. The doors to the present location opened on April 21^st, 2009, and the restaurant is now busier and better than ever. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and with zydeco and jazz music playing over the speakers, you really feel as though you are sitting in a café in Louisiana, and not in the heart of Panama City Beach. Maria Bertella Buxton, the wife of Chef Jordan Buxton, made me feel completely welcome and takes care of everybody that walks through the doors in exactly the same fashion. I could tell that the regulars at Bayou on the Beach loved their hangout and it really was easy to see why. Bill Knight, a patron and local fisherman told me he had been coming to Bayou on the Beach since it opened back in 1999. “This is the best place in town for authentic Cajun cuisine” Mr. Knight said. “Everything on the menu is great – the oysters melt in your mouth, and the Grouper Imperial (fresh grouper with lump crabmeat and a béarnaise sauce) is absolutely wonderful. Maria is a fantastic hostess and I couldn’t be happier with the service or the food.”

I had to agree. I ordered grilled Mahi with fresh vegetables and French fries, which incidentally were some of the best I had ever tasted. The Mahi was cooked to perfection and even the bread roll was a highlight of my meal. My boyfriend decided to try his favorites from back home – gumbo, boudin sausage and even some raw oysters, and gave it all top marks. “This is all as good as you would get back in Louisiana and absolutely delicious” he remarked, as he tried to finish everything on his plate. Poor chap has to make the most of every opportunity to eat home-style cuisine as his girlfriend is not only vegetarian, but English to boot. And let me tell you, there’s nothing too spicy about meatless English fare. We also tried the shrimp and scallop kebobs, wrapped in prosciutto and served with a home-made watermelon sauce. If you have room, deserts include home-made bread pudding with a rum sauce, key lime pie with a raspberry sauce, and beignets.

Bayou on the Beach is open year-round, and is open from 11:00 am Tuesday through Saturday. The restaurant is famous for its awesome lunch specials, which are served daily at a price of $6.50, to include tea and tax. Happy hour is from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and is a little different in that as well as drink specials, it is also an oyster special! For just $3.99 you can tuck into a baker’s dozen (13) fresh oysters. There is a full bar at the restaurant, so even if you aren’t hungry, you can stop in for a cool drink or a glass of wine, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and some great company. Chances are, even if you weren’t hungry when you came in, you will be after spying the appetizing plates on the way to the tables, and after smelling the tempting aromas drifting out from the kitchen. If you haven’t already tried Bayou on the Beach, I urge you to make it your next choice for a meal out. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.

Bayou on the Beach is located at 1115 Hutchinson Blvd, Panama City Beach. Call (850) 249 3478 for more details.

1. Lime’s Bayside Bar and Grill. One of Panama City Beach’s favorite waterfront spots, Lime’s is located at the Bay Point Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, and is accessible either by foot or by boat. With its tin roof and sprawling docks, Lime’s offers visitors a casual atmosphere and some of the best views around. Try the grilled fish tacos or the mango chipotle BBQ beef brisket. Open Wednesday thru Sunday, 11:00 am to sunset. Call (850) 236 6000 for more details.

2. Bayou Joe’s Marina Grill. Located in historical downtown Panama City behind the courthouse, Bayou Joe’s is a great choice for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere away from the beach. Enjoy rustic waterfront views of Massalina Bayou, friendly service, and a great menu including a fantastic breakfast selection. Open Monday thru Saturday from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Sundays 7:00 am to 7:30 pm. Call (850) 763 6442 for more details.

3. Schooners Last Local Beach Club. A Panama City Beach favorite, where both locals and visitors go to enjoy delicious food, oceanfront views, and live entertainment. Schooners is an open-air hangout that has been serving up fresh seafood and good times for many years, and a cannon is fired every night to announce the legendary sunset. It really doesn’t get much better. Don’t miss “The Beach Party”, Schooners’ famous seafood platter consisting of shrimp, grouper, oysters and hushpuppies. Open 7 days a week from 11:00 am until late. Call (850) 235 3555 for more details.

4. Pineapple Willy’s. Home of the famous Jack Daniel’s BBQ ribs, Pineapple Willy’s is the ultimate in casual waterfront dining. Dine outside on the covered pier, or inside where sports lovers can watch the big game on one of the many plasma TV screens. There’s something for all tastes, including seafood, prime rib, salads, sandwiches and a great kid’s menu. When the sun goes down Pineapple Willy’s is the place to be, with incredible live entertainment on the Pier Bar. Open 7 days a week from 11:00 am till late. Call (850) 235 1225 for more details.

5. Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill. Visit beautiful historic St. Andrew’s Marina, located just ten minutes from Panama City Beach, for a memorable dining experience. Uncle Ernie’s offers fine dining in a casual atmosphere complemented by breathtaking waterfront scenery. Diners can arrive by either land or water, and once seated, will have a hard time choosing from the sensational menu and wine list. Pick from items such as sauteed shrimp and sea scallops with angel hair pasta, grouper pigneri with shrimp, or the award winning crab cakes. A superb choice for any occasion. Uncle Ernie’s is open 7 days a week from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Call (850) 763 8427 for more details.

6. Spinnaker’s Paradise Grill. Boasting a central Panama City Beach location on Thomas Drive, Spinnaker has evolved from a night spot popular with the younger crowd to a fantastic restaurant geared towards families and diners of all ages. The club still rocks at night, but Paradise Grill provides a relaxed, oceanfront setting for lunch and dinner. Serving up fresh local seafood, steaks, burgers, salads and healthy wraps, Spinnaker’s Paradise Grill sits overlooking the soft white sands and sparkling gulf waters. Diners can enjoy front row seats to the world’s most beautiful sunset and a mouthwatering menu, all in one perfect location. Open from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, 7 days a week. Call (850) 234 7892 for more details.

7. The Shrimp Boat Restaurant. Head to historic St. Andrew’s for an exquisite waterfront dining experience with a difference. Architecturally modeled after a 19th-Century Cuban Cigar Factory, the Shrimp Boat restaurant is 3 stories high and over 24,000 square feet. This exciting new eatery features a classic seafood fine dining menu, a sushi bar, banquet facilities, and a 55-foot long bar overlooking Smiths Yacht Basin. The Shrimp Boat is also home to Gracie Rae, a casual bar and grill where the great food goes hand in hand with outdoor dining and gorgeous waterfront views. The Shrimp Boat is open daily for dinner at 4:30 pm, and Gracie Rae is open for both lunch and dinner, daily at 11:30 am. Call (850) 785 8706 for more details.

8. The Boatyard. A popular local hangout, the Boatyard is located overlooking the calm waters of Grand Lagoon. Its prime waterfront setting is by no means the only reason the Boatyard is a Panama City Beach favorite. A Key West inspired menu includes items such as cilantro spiced mahi-mahi, key lime garlic shrimp, and grilled Caribbean jerk chicken. Don’t miss a Boatyard specialty, key lime pie on a stick. This mouthwatering dessert consists of creamy and tart key lime pie with a graham cracker crust, dipped in dark chocolate, frozen and served old-fashioned popsicle style. Yum! Open 7 days a week from 11:00 am. Call (850) 249 9273 for more details.

If you would like your restaurant to be featured in an upcoming article, please Email Me.

1. Oishi Thai Sushi. Located on Highway 79 just across from the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, Oishi Thai Sushi (previously Nuna’s) has recently undergone a renovation and in my opinion, now offers one of the best international dining options in town. Don’t let the small but cozy interior fool you – this place is big on flavor and quality. For those who have yet to sample Thai cuisine, it’s a treat for the senses thanks to chef Saisunee Sarnnok’s creative use of beautiful Thai color combinations and aromas. Try the Pad Thai, a traditional Thai favorite. Chef Ricky serves up healthy Japanese dishes including sushi, sashimi, sushi rolls, soups, salads and fish. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Call (850) 230 9874 for more details.
2. Guadalajara Mexican Grill. If you love Mexican food, Guadalajara will not disappoint. Situated in the Thomas Square plaza on Thomas Drive, this traditional Mexican restaurant is conveniently located and serves up a great margarita. All the standard Mexican fare can be found, and service is fast and friendly. There’s a full bar for the evening, and some really good lunch specials. Open every day from 11:00 am. Call (850) 235 3300 for more details.

3. Jin Jin Chinese & Japanese Restaurant. There are actually two Jin Jin restaurants in Panama City Beach, one in the Publix shopping plaza opposite Carillon Beach on Back Beach road, and the other also on Back Beach at R. Jackson Blvd. The latter is an elegant addition to Panama City Beach’s gastronomic options, and offers an inviting atmosphere in which to dine on sumptuous Chinese or Japanese cuisine. The Chinese menu features all the tasty favorites and includes a healthy section with steamed choices. The Japanese menu offers an incredible sushi selection plus tempura and teriyaki dishes. Check out their great lunch specials. Open every day from 11:00 am and noon on Sundays. Call (850) 235 8835 for more details.
4. Calypso Beach Café. Contemporary dining with Caribbean Creole flair is how Calypso Beach Café describes their cuisine, and it’s an accurate description. They should also include yummy in there somewhere as the food is really good, with something for everyone. Located on Front Beach Road adjacent to the Calypso Condominium, Calypso serves up tasty treats such as Calypso Shrimp – ten jumbo shrimp, butter-flied and dipped in an original Red Stripe Jamaican beer batter, then in toasted coconut and fried to perfection, or Crabcake Alfredeaux – five two oz. blackened or fried crab cakes, served over angel hair pasta and covered with creamy Alfredo sauce made with sautéed Gulf shrimp. Calypso Beach Café is open from 11:00 am every day. Call (850) 234 6788 for more details.
5. Guglielmo’s Italian Grill. With a hard to beat Pier Park location, Guglielmo’s Italian Grill and Pizza serves up some of the best Italian cuisine in the region. Chef Guglielmo Ianni has been preparing authentic Northern Italian Cuisine since 1976, and uses only the freshest of ingredients, choice meats, fresh seafood, and garden vegetables. The menu features a wide variety of classic favorites and mouth-watering specialty dishes you won’t find anywhere else. Try the Penne Guglielmo or the Veal Parmigiana, or sample one of the many gourmet pizzas available. Delizioso! Open 7 days a week from 11:00 am. Call (850) 235 3065 for more details.
6. Shan Kishi Japanese Restaurant. In a short space of time, Panama City Beach has seen the arrival of several excellent places to find healthy Japanese cuisine. Located at 13800 Panama City Beach Parkway opposite Carrabba’s restaurant, Shan Kishi is a superb choice for anyone seeking a taste of the orient. An extensive menu features a myriad of sushi choices, soups, salads, and a full Hibachi selection. Open 7 days a week from 11:00 am, and from noon on Sundays. Call (850) 249 3363 for more details.

7. Casa De Fogo. This Brazilian Steakhouse offers a unique dining experience for the meat-lover. Diners can relax and enjoy a selection of fine meats including pork, beef, chicken and shrimp brought right to the table as many times as needed. A green coaster on the table means “Keep ‘em Coming” and when you’re full or just need a break, flip the coaster over to red to let the friendly waitstaff know “I’m Good!” There’s also a great salad and sides bar plus an extensive drinks menu to complement your meaty smorgasbord of a meal. Casa De Fogo is located at 7715 Front Beach Road, and is open daily at 5:00 pm. Call (850) 249 4554 for more details.

For the love of sushi

Panama City Beach is packed year-round with people who love the exotic taste of fresh sushi. And as any of them know, although sushi bars may be everywhere, really good sushi is hard to come by. Here are your top 5 sushi spots

5. Oishi Thai & Sushi Bar

Oishi Thai is a newly opened restaurant that features fine Thai cuisine, offering a range of lunch and dinner options such as Tom Yum Goong, Tom Kha Gai, Papaya Salad all sorts of noodle variations. Although Oishi has perfected Thai food, the sushi is so good it has already ranked in our top5 list.

Chef Ricky delivers delicate but flavorful Japanese dishes incorporating premium ingredients. The menu is vast, encompassing sushi, sashimi, sushi rolls, soups, salads, fish, and more. Stop by the quaint little restaurant on 79 and have a roll. You’ll love it.

Best Roll: Dynamite Roll spicy scallop cucumber avocado top with Bake mixed sea food and red tobiko

Oishi Thai is located 207 South Highway 79 Panama City Beach, FL 32413 – Call for takeout (850) 230-9874

4. Pompanos

Pompanos’ sushi mastery may surprise you. The locally loved restaurant known for its succulent steaks and flavorful seafood dishes, most people who enter the restaurant are so consumed by the menu’s seemingly limitless options, they never notice the usually-packed sushi bar.

Pompanos features some of the best sushi on the beach! With everything at Pompanos, they use only the freshest ingredients with a great understanding of flavor and presentation so what you get is not only beautiful food, but an explosion of tastes you’ll savor.

Best Roll: The J.T roll

Pompano’s is located 10292 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL. Call Ahead – 850-233-9080

3. Mikato Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi

It almost seems like Mikato has been around as long as Panama City Beach has existed. For years, Mikato has been serving up some of the best sushi in all of Northwest Florida. Of all the sushi spots on this list, Mikato is by far the largest, with a huge hibachi grill and a sushi bar that can hold crowds of sushi lovers.

What put’s Mikato so high on the list is their prices. They serve a number of delicious rolls crafted by expert sushi-men all for a low price. With rolls for just one person or platters for you’re group, Mikato has you covered.

Best Roll: Spider Roll Soft shell crab avocado asp scallion masako

Mikato is located 7724 Front Beach Rd in Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Call Ahead 850.235.1338

2. Sake House

Recently opening the doors to its new Panama City Beach location, Sake House has actually been around for years in the Bay County area. The new Thomas drive location, however, has the beach buzzing. The same great atmosphere and delicious sushi variations as the “in-town” Sake House took Panama City Beach by storm.

What you’ll love most about Sake House is the quality of sushi. These guys really know what they are doing. No matter the size of the roll or its ingredients, every roll is flavorful and carefully made.

Best Roll: Spicy Salmon Roll

Sake House is located 1012 Thomas Dr, Panama City – Call Ahead (850) 249-9789

1. Shan Kishi Japanese Fusion

Shan Kishi has vaulted to the top of the list in a very short time. Located in the prismatic Nautilus Station on Panama City Beach Parkway, one visit to Shan Kishi and you will know why it’s number one on this list. The hibachi variations are absolutely amazing, the atmosphere intimate and authentic, and the sushi is the best sushi for a hundred miles in any direction.

Every roll at Shan Kishi has a sense of artistry, as though it might be the last roll the sushi-men will every make. They are often plump with fresh ingredients and exploding with flavor. You’ll love it.

Best Roll: Caribbean Roll – Lobster salad, cucumber asparagus and tobiko, soy bean wrapped, topped with mango avocado

Shan Kishi is located 13800 Panama City Beach Parkway Suite 101D Panama City Beach, FL 32407. Call Ahead (850) 249-3663

Hundreds of people land on seepcb and pcbdaily every month searching for Pier Park Restaurants, so I thought I’d give you guys the most complete list in Panama City Beach for restaurants in Pier Park. The list is broken into three categories:

Food Via Wait Staff

• Back Porch Seafood and Oyster House
  • Fresh seafood restaurant right across the street from the Gulf of Mexico. Dine on traditional seafood platters in a casual and laid back atmosphere. Sandwiches from $10 to $14, and dinner from $16 to $25. Back Porch is located at the corner of Front Beach Road and the main boardwalk area of Pier Park.
• Bootleg Barbecue
  • “We live our lives like we smoke our meat, slow and on the beach.” Bootleg owner Josh Daugherty comes from a back ground in high-end cuisine, but with solid roots in slow roasted pork butts, he returned to BBQ. Bootleg Barbecue restaurant in Pier Park is truly one of a kind, bringing the sweet savor of BBQ sauce and quality meat and sides in a fun environment. Sandwiches from $8, plates from $13, and huge party feast catering with special pricing! Bootleg is located in the “festive” grounds, right next to Starbucks.
• Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar
  • Dubbed “Panama’s Football Headquarters,” Buffalo Wild Wings in Pier Park brings the traditional combination of watching sports on a gazillion flat screen TV’s and eating messy, spicy wings to Panama City Beach. If you love sports and food, this is the place to go. Not to mention their phenomenal wing specials and sauce that will literally make you cry (it made me cry, and I was heckled because of it, but it was worth it). They are one of our advertisers, be sure to say PCBDAILY and get $5 off on orders $20 or more! BWW is a restaurant located right across from Five Guys on the main boardwalk area of Pier Park.
• Guglielmo’s Italian Grill
  • “If you love authentic Italian cuisine. . . Guglielmo’s is the place to be.” Located in the middle of the action in Pier Park, Guglielmo’s is a big-box chain that brings little Italy flavor to all their dishes. I have no idea what the pricing is as they don’t have it on their web site – sorry! Guglielmo’s is located in the “festive” area, next to Bootleg Barbecue.
• Guy Harvey’s Island Grill
  • What would Panama City Beach, much less Pier Park be without one of Guy Harvey’s four Island Grills. Fans of Guy Harvey can buy authentic shirts and other apparel along with art and more in the gift shop, then dine on a menu consisting of no protected fish. Guy Harvey’s is located on the main boardwalk area, on the east side close to Front Beach Road – you can’t miss it!
• Hofbrau Beer Garden
  • All I have to say is German Beer and German Food. And, don’t forget they are also an advertiser of pcbdaily! They’re doing a special for the whole month of August: $8 liters after 8 pm for the entire 8th month of the year! Hofbrau Beer Garden is located in the main boardwalk area, right across from Red Brick Pizza and across from Tootsies Orchid Lounge.
• Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
  • Seriously, the best location in Pier Park. Located directly on Front Beach Road, they have an unobstructed view of the Gulf of Mexico and those amazing sunsets that come with that view. You can eat here from $7 to $14. Margaritaville is located right on Front Beach Road on the west side of the main boardwalk area of Pier Park.
• Longhorn Steakhouse
  • Mmmoooooo, yeehaa! Lookin’ for a steak? This is the place to go. With a lunch and dinner menu you can get anything from burgers to chicken to their legendary steaks. Longhorn Steakhouse is located on the north side of Pier Park, right on Back Beach Road or Panma City Beach Parkway, next to Olive Garden.
• Olive Garden
  • You know the saying, “When you’re here, your family.” And last time I was there, I sure felt great when I left! My wife and I spent around $30 after tip, a little more than we usually spend, but we were extremely happy with the service. Olive Garden is located on the north side of Pier Park right on Back Beach Road, next to Longhorn Steakhouse.
• Red Robin Gourmet Burgers & Spirits
  • There’s a lot of hype about this place, but bring your wallet because they ain’t no Five Guys. The burgers were good, but the fries weren’t all they were cracked up to be. But, that’s just my opinion, tons of people love these guys, don’t let me stop you from enjoying their really fun atmosphere! Burgers from $9, fries included. Red Robin is located in the north section of Pier Park in the same building as the Great American Cookie Maker, across from where Baja Grill was and down from the AT&T store in Panama City Beach.
• Reggae J’s Island Grill
  • Like reggae music? What about seafood with a caribbean flare? This is your place. Owned by the same people that own Back Porch Seafood and Oyster House across the street, you know the seafood will be local, fresh and great. Sandwiches from $9 and dinner from $12 to $20. Raggae J’s is located in the boardwalk area of Pier Park (south section of Pier Park), right on Front Beach Road, on the east side opposite of Margaritaville in Panama City Beach.
• Tootsies Orchid Lounge
  • Honky Tonk and good ‘ol Nashville BBQ. This is where the country boys and anyone else who loves lively honky tonk go to hang out. Already Tootsies has brought celebrities to our little town, including Jamey Johnson, Kelsey Grammar (yes, Frasier), Kenny Chesney, and several others! Go out, you never know who you might see. Tootsies is located on the boardwalk area of Pier Park, across from Hofbrau Beer Garden and Red Brick Pizza.

Food Via Order at the Counter

• Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe’
  • Soup and sandwiches, bistro-style with bottled drinks or a soda fountain. Love this place, fresh ingredients, great price, right in the middle of all the action. They serve wraps (hot and cold) sandwiches, flat-bread pizza, salads, paninis and smoothies. Camille’s is located in the “festive” area, right next to Starbucks and across from The Grand Movie Theater.
• Five Guys Famous Burgers & Fries
  • I love this place. Seriously, these guys should be advertising with us, I tweet them so much. I remember when I first published a story about them, someone remarked how expensive they were, but I’ve found the exact opposite. Any place that I can go and get a soda, a few burgers, dogs and fries and feed myself, my wife and a couple of my kids for $20 is a huge winner for me, especially if the food is great. If you can’t find Five Guys Burgers and Fries in the south side of Pier Park (the main boardwalk area), you need new eyes. That building is probably one of the most visually appealing in the whole lot, and Pier Park is very beautiful.
• Hana Japan
  • All Japanese food, all the time. Hana Japan is located right next to Marble Slab on the main boardwalk area, which is across from Five Guys and Buffalo Wild Wings.
• Panera Bread
  • Anything from sweet flat-bread sandwiches to fresh pasties to party catering platters, Panera has got it all. This is my favorite place to go with my wife in the winter. With each of us getting the “You Pick Two” and a couple sodas, we rarely spend more than $20 for a date – love this place! Panera Bread is located on the north part of Pier Park where Target is. In fact, you can see Target from the front doors of Panera.
• RedBrick Pizza
  • You know, it’s actually quite fitting that I’m posting about this right now. As of the writing of this article, I just had pizza for lunch here with Cebo after visiting the new airport. We got a large Red Brick Gourmet Works and a couple sodas for around $23. A little high for a lunch for us, but the pizza was fantastic, atmosphere was good, and we had a great time. Red Brick Pizza is located in the south section of Pier Park, also called the boardwalk area, and is across from Hofbrau Beer Garden and Tootsies Orchid Lounge.

Eateries

• Candymaker Candy Store
  • All types of home-made candy, enough to rot the teeth of you and your family, if you’re into that kinda thing. I know my kids are, but I’ve had one too many root-canals. Candymaker Candy Store is located in the “festive” area, which is right across from the movie theater, The Grand.
• Great American Cookie/Pretzelmaker
  • I love cookies, and they have specials here all the time. Located in the north side of Pier Park, right across from that fateful AT&T store that I spent 5 hours at buying two sweet sweet iPhones, you can spell the delicious aroma wafting down the sidewalk.
• Kilwin’s Chocolates & Ice Cream
  • Love LOVE their ice cream and home-made chocolates. They make chocolate and fudge right there under that roof, and I think they make the ice-cream too, but just not there. There is a Kilwin’s in Destin (which is where it all started) and they’ve been successful here. Kilwin’s is located in the main boardwalk area, on the east side, right down from Red Brick Pizza and Smoothie King.
• Marble Slab Creamery
  • The name says it all. If you like goodies in your ice-cream, this is the place to get it fresh. Using huge, chilled marble slabs and heavy thick metal “crushers”, the staff at this tasty treat shop mix up anything you want in your ice-cream, from gummy bears to Oreo’s to M&M’s. Marble Slab is located on the main boardwalk area across from Five Guys Burgers and Fries.
• Polka-Dots Toys and Gifts
  • Selling all the retro toys and gifts that you can’t find anywhere else, Polka Dots also has snacks and other eatery items. Polka Dots is located in the main boardwalk area of Peir Park on the east side, in the same building as Hofbrau Beer Garden and Buffalo Wild Wings.
• Popcorn Kingdom
  • This my friend is the place that dreams are made of. Popcorn literally fills every nook and cranny of this magical place. If you can dream it up, this place has the popcorn to open your eyes. Popcorn Kingdom is in the boardwalk area of Pier Park in Panama City Beach, on the east side, same building as Buffalo Wild Wings.
• Smoothie King
  • The name says it all. Smoothie King is located in the main boardwalk area of Pier Park, on the east side, in the same building as Red Brick Pizza and Kilwin’s Chocolate.
• Starbucks Coffee
  • Again, everyone knows Starbucks. Starbucks is located in the “festive” area, and can be seen from The Grand Movie Theater.

This Panama City Beach landmark restaurant was named among America’s Top 50 restaurants, was the recipient of the “Best Seafood Restaurant” award from Southern Living, and received Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence.” Additionally, Captain Anderson’s won Florida Trend’s Golden Spoon Award for 15 years before being inducted into the Restaurant Hall of Fame in 2005.  It’s easy to see how the restaurant earned such high honors along with its excellent reputation. Located waterfront on Grand Lagoon, Captain Anderson’s boasts some of the best views in town, along with a warm, family atmosphere and out-of-this-world cuisine.

As soon as you walk through the doors, it becomes apparent that this is no ordinary dining experience. You feel welcome immediately thanks in part to the casual ambience, however the restaurant exudes the vibe of an elegant, fine dining establishment. The menu is outstanding and the wine list extensive. Everything is fresh, light, and bursting with flavor. Johnny Patronis explains, “Nothing should drown the natural goodness of fresh, fresh fish. Just let it absorb a little of the aroma of oak from the coals, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of lemon and maybe a touch of oregano, and serve it while it’s still hot.” The Greek influence can be found throughout the menu, from the seafood, chicken and steak right down to the crisp salad and aromatic bread. Add a shot of ouzo for an authentic kick to your meal.

There’s a dish for all tastes at Captain Anderson’s. Try the oven broiled stuffed jumbo gulf shrimp baked with homemade crab meat stuffing, the grouper marguerey baked en-casserole with shrimp, oysters, scallops and topped with a rich mornay sauce, or perhaps the signature certified Angus beef grilled churrasco steak, a seasoned tenderloin Nicaraguan cut with grilled Bermuda onions. My Greek family and I have dined here countless times over the years, and I can say with the utmost conviction that everything on the menu is fresh, delectable, and will delight even the pickiest eater at your table.

Captain Anderson’s is extremely popular with both locals and visitors, and therefore wait times can be a little long during the summer season. The key is to keep with tradition and dine early, and experience the fishing fleet unloading their daily catch on the docks. After your meal, browse the waterfront market, where you will find unique gifts and souvenirs, plus fine pastries and Greek specialty foods. Pick up a copy of the famous Captain Anderson’s cookbook and make your favorite dish from the comfort of your own home! The restaurant is open from 4:00 pm Monday through Friday, from 3:30 pm on Saturdays and is closed on Sundays. Prices for an entree start at $13.95 and can go up to $43.95. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.

Check out the official Captain Anderson’s website and be sure to experience this beloved Panama City Beach restaurant for yourself.

Captain Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront Market is located at 5551 N. Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408. For more information please call (850) 234-2225 or (888) US-TOP-50.

I’ve never been to New York City, but have seen, countless times on TV shows and movies, people sighing with delight as they bit into a slice of New York pizza. Pizza, as far as I knew, was what you order from Pizza Hut or Papa Johns. But the minute I stepped into Salvatore’s and ordered up a pie, I realized that real pizza is more than just a phone call and a ring at your doorbell, it is an artform.

Located on Hutchison Blvd in the old Publix Plaza, Salvatore’s is a locally owned and operated Pizza shop, but don’t let the local ownership fool you; the food is all New York. Serving up what may very well be the best pasta, pizza and wings on Panama City Beach, all the sauces and recipes at Salvatore’s are homemade, brought back from Buffalo, New York with the shop’s owner, Ken and his wife.

As you step foot into the eatery, the atmosphere is almost startling, as if you’ve been transported the 1,200 miles up north. In the cozy restaurant, table settings are all red and black checkerboard, behind the counter Ken is spinning dough above his head and the air smells rich with tomato. You know it almost instantly: you’re not on Panama City Beach anymore.

Appetizers:

Salvatore’s serves a number of tasty appetizers. You can order  a variety of fresh-never-frozen buffalo wings from 10 ($7.49) or 20 ($12.99) and up to 50 ($27.99). They also serve some unique items like broccoli poppers ($5.29) or fried ravioli ($5.29). But the favorite among all patrons at Salvatore’s are Salvatore’s Famous Garlic Knots. I personally tasted those little buggers and I can tell you they are the most flavorful things I’ve ever tasted; buttery, garlic-y, soft, hot and with a side of delicious pizza sauce. Knots go for $2.99 for a half a dozen, a dollar more for the full dozen.

Salvatore’s also makes New York style salads, ultra-fresh with a myriad of dressings. If you are looking for something a little heavier, you’ll definitely like the Stromboli, which comes in pepperoni, sausage, Swiss and mozzarella cheeses for $5.29, or the oh-so-tasty Calzones which come with Parmesan, ricotta, Romano and mozzarella cheeses and can be made with toppings like chicken, meatballs pepperoni, spinach and mushroom. You can even create your own version of any of them.

Entrees:

The pasta dishes at Salvatore’s are authentic Italian, rich and savory in every bite. You can try the lasagna for $7.29 or baked four cheese ziti for only $6.99. The manicotti has a powerful amount of flavor, so be careful and the spaghetti can come with meatballs or link sausage. They also serve chicken and veal Parmesan for $7.49 and $9.49. All the pasta dishes come with the famous garlic knots.

While you can easily fall in love with any of the said dishes, what will change the way you see pizza is, well, the pizza. Salvatore’s uses only the freshest ingredients and homemade sauces to make a pizza unlike anything on Panama City Beach. They serve pizzas by the inch at 14 inches or 16 or, if you just had to stop by for a taste, they serve pizza by the slices. The slices are big and covered in toppings ranging from the traditional pepperoni to banana peppers and anchovies. If you have no idea what you want on your pizza you can order a deluxe (pepperoni, sausage, mushroom, green pepper) at 16 inches for $19.79, or a Lite White (olive oil, garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano cheeses) at 16 inches $14.29. There are other specialty pizzas to choose from $11.99 up to $22.99.

Etc…

You’ll love Salvatore’s because of the New York vibe but Southern service, so stop by, grab a slice of pizza and 10 wings and kick back. And don’t forget the garlic knots, you’ll be talking about them for weeks.

Salvatore’s Pizza and Wings is located at 11206 Hutchison Blvd Panama City Beach, FL 32407 or call ahead at 850-249-0407

[mappress]

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