Pensacola is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, vibrant culture, and more recently, its up and coming food scene! Whether you’re looking for the best takeout, Italian restaurants, or authentic middle eastern cuisine, here’s a roundup of 11 of my favorite restaurants in Pensacola, offering everything from fresh caught seafood to historic charm.

First up:

Best Seafood Restaurants in Pensacola

You want to talk about good seafood restaurants in Pensacola Florida? My husband and I have been eating at Pearl & Horn practically since we moved here in 2022. Originally located in the Garden off Palafox street, Pearl & Horn expanded into a beautiful new dining location off W Intendencia St at the end of 2023. A local favorite, Pearl & Horn is celebrated for its fresh, sustainable seafood. We’re obsessed with the Elk Ragu, Lobster Roll, Thai Curry Shrimp Bisque, Tuna Carpaccio, and New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp!

Check out their menu or make a reservation here.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Best lobster roll I’ve had outside of New England!”
• “Incredible fresh seafood with a laid-back vibe.”

The Fish House

Cuisine: Seafood, Southern

Address: 600 S Barracks St, Pensacola, FL 32502

Open Hours:

• Sunday – Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM

With a prime location and live music by the water, The Fish House is known for its Southern-inspired seafood dishes and great atmosphere. Don’t miss out on their Grits à Ya Ya, a signature dish beloved by regulars and visitors alike. Take a peek at the plethora of signed, framed photos on your way inside—many a famous name can be found gracing these walls!

View their extensive menu online here.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “The Grits à Ya Ya are the reason I come here every time!”
• “Amazing seafood and a great atmosphere – a Pensacola must.”

Global Grill

Cuisine: Tapas, Fusion

Address: 25 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502

Open Hours:

• Tuesday-Thursday: 5 – 9 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 5 – 10 PM

Possibly (definitely) an unpopular opinion with wait staff everywhere: A great test of a restaurant’s quality and service is visiting right before closing. The first time my husband and I visited Global Grill, we had barely an hour until closing. (For the record, it’s not our fault that basically every restaurant in town closes by 10 pm on weekends and we follow what I like to call more of a “European” eating schedule). I can proudly report that Global Grill passed the test with flying colors. Our waiter, George, was incredibly friendly and accommodating and walked us through the menu like we had all the time in the world. This is the place to go if you’re craving diverse, shareable plates with a sophisticated touch. Known for its fusion of global flavors, it’s a festive spot to enjoy creative tapas dishes and craft cocktails!

Join 12K+ followers on Global Grill’s Facebook page.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Elegant and flavorful – every tapas plate was a winner.”
• “Perfect for sharing! The scallops were my favorite.”

Jaco’s Bayfront Bar & Grille

Cuisine: American, Seafood

Address: 997 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502

Open Hours:

• Monday-Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
• Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM

Located right on the waterfront, Jaco’s offers outdoor seating, stunning views of Pensacola Bay, and fantastic seafood and American classics. It’s the perfect place for a sunset dinner and bottle of wine while enjoying their famous crab cakes or seared tuna.

It’s one of the few fine dining restaurants in Pensacola that doesn’t take reservations, but you can call and add your name to their waitlist before visiting. Check out the Jaco’s menu here.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Amazing views, amazing food! You can’t beat the sunsets here.”
• “Great atmosphere, and the crab cakes were divine.”

The Grand Marlin (Pensacola Beach)

Cuisine: Seafood

Address: 400 Pensacola Beach Blvd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Open Hours:

• Monday-Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
• Sunday: 9 AM – 9 PM

If you’re on Pensacola Beach, The Grand Marlin offers fresh seafood and an upscale dining experience. Reviewers praise the attentive service, spectacular views, and dishes like the blackened redfish and oysters. We love coming here after church for a Sunday brunch overlooking the sound.

Check out their menu or make a reservation here.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Exquisite seafood in a beautiful beach setting.”
• “The oysters and cocktails are a must-try!”

Next:

Middle Eastern Restaurants in Pensacola

For a taste of the Mediterranean fused with the Gulf Coast, Agapi is the spot. Every month they offer a huge menu of rotating tapas featuring seasonal flavors and local ingredients. And you’ll never go wrong ordering one of their signature dishes! Check out Agapi’s happy hour, Saturday brunch, and dinner specials here.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Authentic Greek flavors in the heart of Pensacola.”
• “The lamb was cooked to perfection. I could eat here every day!”

In & Out Kitchen

Cuisine: Mediterranean, American

Address: 8084 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32514

Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 11 AM – 8 PM

One of my favorite hidden gem restaurants in Pensacola is found off N Davis Hwy. Growing up in a Lebanese family, I’m a tough critic when it comes to judging authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food. I’m happy to report that In & Out Kitchen passes the test! In & Out Kitchen offers a blend of Mediterranean and American favorites. With generous portions and affordable pricing, reviewers love the kebabs and the gyro platters, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal. You must, and I repeat must, try their whipped garlic dip. Chef’s kiss.

Place an online order on the In & Out Kitchen website.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Delicious kebabs and gyros – flavorful and filling.”
• “Affordable and quick. Perfect for when I want something fresh.”

Taste of Jerusalem & Taste of Jerusalem Express

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Address:

12805 W Cervantes St, Pensacola, FL 32505 (Main)

5039 FL-296, Pensacola, FL 32503 (Express)

Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 10 AM – 12 AM (Both locations)

Taste of Jerusalem is known for its authentic Middle Eastern dishes, including shawarma, hummus, and falafel. The main location on W Cervantes St is a casual, sit-down atmosphere, but don’t let the paper plates and plastic tables fool you. Your meal begins with delicious, complementary cold mezze dips and pita that you’ll have to forcibly resist to make room for the rest of your food. Both locations are convenient and provide the same quality. Perfect for a quick bite or takeout!

Check out their menu or place an online order here.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “The best falafel and shawarma I’ve ever had.”
• “Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with great customer service.”

Moving on to….

The Best Takeout in Pensacola

Taqueria El Asador

Cuisine: Mexican

Address: 7955 N Davis Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32514

Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM

Right across the street is another not so hidden gem. A local food truck that has earned a cult following, Taqueria El Asador serves purely authentic Mexican street food behind an unassuming gas station parking lot. Their tacos and burritos are what dreams are made of, with many locals calling it the best Mexican food in town. Nearly 5,000, 5-star reviews is pretty hard to argue with.

Learn more about this family owned and operated food truck and place an online takeout order here!

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Best tacos in Pensacola, hands down.”
• “The carne asada burrito is unbeatable!”

For a bite to eat in the historic part of town…

Restaurants in East Hill Pensacola

O’Zone Pizza Pub

Cuisine: Pizza, Pub

Address: 1010 N 12th Ave suite 111, Pensacola, FL 32501

Open Hours:

• Wednesday & Thursday: 4-9 PM
• Friday: 4-10 PM
• Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
• Sunday: 11 AM – 8 PM

Located in the old historic Sacred Heart Hospital in East Hill, O’Zone serves up delicious pizza and cold drinks in a unique setting. The laid-back pub vibe, moody lighting, and creative pizzas make this a go-to for locals. Sit down and stay awhile or pop by for a quick takeout order for a casual night at home.

Check out their pizza menu here.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Best pizza in town! The atmosphere is so cool and laid back.”
• “The funky vibe and unique pizza combos keep us coming back.”

Right next door sits The Burrow, a trendy yet eclectic little restaurant with an outdoor beer garden with Odd Colony on tap. I recently discovered this newer addition to the Pensacola food scene, and my only regret is not finding it the day it opened! The Burrow is all about farm-to-table dining and their seasonal menu changes often! The attention to detail, creativity, and fresh ingredients shine in every single dish.

Stay up to date on seasonal menu items and events on The Burrow’s Facebook page.

Top Reviewer Remarks:

• “Every dish is made with care – the flavors are amazing.”
• “I love that their menu changes with the seasons. It’s always fresh and delicious.”

I’ll keep updating this Pensacola restaurant guide with more local dining favorites, so save this post for reference!

From authentic Mexican street food to elegant tapas, Pensacola’s dining options have something for every craving. Whether you’re dining with friends or family, these restaurants won’t disappoint. Have you tried any of these spots? Let me know your favorites in the comments below!