For BBQ, Kinfolks gets a lot of recommendations.
Are there any good places to eat on Okaloosa Island?
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I second Big City! The food is well-prepared, different but not strange, and the prices and atmosphere (modern yet warm and casual) are first rate! If you aren't into Thai -- for which FWB is famous -- other options: Slick Micks for sandwiches and pub fare. Buffalo Reef, for the wings only. Tijuana Flats for a quick bite, large menu. Helenback for the amazing pizza, but if you're with a family, get carry out. Hightide is an institution, basic fare at good prices. Old Bay Steamer is a crowd pleaser with solid food, but crowded during the busy season, as is any restaurant directly on the island. If you want to avoid tourist crowds, do Big City for a "nicer" dinner, Slick Micks for a large group of adults, Helenback for a carryout pizza night, Hightide or Old Bay Steamer for a (very) early family dinner before an early evening beach stroll/dip and then perhaps a trip to an ice cream shop. I also love Maas coffee downtown.
Pandora's is generally good for steaks, but DO NOT order a fish dish. Pranzo's is fine for appetizers and drinks, but beyond that the menu is dicey. (These two restaurants are owned by the same family.) Bay Cafe -- I think a lot of its falling cache is due to the changing American palate. I find their food somewhat bland, but well-prepared. My best friend loves the place. It just isn't to my taste.
If you go across the island *just* into Destin, there's McGuires, which is a reliable choice, lots of menu options, but again GO EARLY. Ciao Bello Pizza is consistently good too.
A good Destin day trip is to the Destin Commons (bring a bathing suit for the kiddies -- there's a splash-and-play fountain) and if you can pawn the kids off with a minder, try Chan's Wine World, just across the street from the Destin Commons, for a special adult lunch or dinner.
Pandora's is generally good for steaks, but DO NOT order a fish dish. Pranzo's is fine for appetizers and drinks, but beyond that the menu is dicey. (These two restaurants are owned by the same family.) Bay Cafe -- I think a lot of its falling cache is due to the changing American palate. I find their food somewhat bland, but well-prepared. My best friend loves the place. It just isn't to my taste.
If you go across the island *just* into Destin, there's McGuires, which is a reliable choice, lots of menu options, but again GO EARLY. Ciao Bello Pizza is consistently good too.
A good Destin day trip is to the Destin Commons (bring a bathing suit for the kiddies -- there's a splash-and-play fountain) and if you can pawn the kids off with a minder, try Chan's Wine World, just across the street from the Destin Commons, for a special adult lunch or dinner.