Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Pensacola, Florida, United States
1. Gulf Coast Gumbo
A hearty stew made with seafood, okra, and spices, often served over rice. Try it at Wicked Gill's Seafood & Oyster Bar.
- Unique Ingredients: Features local seafood like shrimp, crab, and fish
- Rich Flavor: Bold, spicy, and savory flavors
- Traditional Recipe: Authentic Louisiana-style gumbo adapted to Pensacola's Gulf Coast cuisine
2. Fresh Oysters at Joe Patti's Seafood
Enjoy fresh, locally harvested oysters shucked right before your eyes. This is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
- Freshness: Oysters are shipped directly from the Gulf of Mexico
- Variety: Offers several types of oysters, including local and imported varieties
- Experience: Get a glimpse of the seafood industry with a behind-the-scenes look at the market
3. Mrs. Romer's Pound Cake
A classic Southern dessert made with butter and cake flour, served at the Fish House restaurant. It's a sweet treat not to be missed.
- Traditional Recipe: Family recipe passed down for generations
- Buttery Taste: Rich, buttery flavor with a tender crumb
- Popularity: Featured on the Food Network and loved by locals and visitors alike
4. Blue Crab Claws at The Grand Marlin
Savor succulent blue crab claws steamed to perfection. This seafood restaurant offers an impressive selection of fresh catches.
- Seasonal Availability: Blue crabs are in season from April to October
- Cooking Method: Steamed with garlic and butter for a rich, flavorful experience
- Freshness: Locally sourced blue crabs guarantee freshness
5. Pensacola Bayou Special at Lemonska Cafe
A delicious Creole-inspired dish with shrimp, crawfish, and andouille sausage over rice. Try it at this charming Pensacola eatery.
- Unique Combinations: Creole flavors combined with local Gulf seafood
- Flavorful Sauce: Spicy and aromatic sauce made from scratch
- Local Favorite: Loved by locals for its authentic flavors and inviting atmosphere
6. Fried Green Tomatoes at Jackson's Steakhouse
Crispy, golden-fried green tomatoes served with a creamy remoulade sauce. This dish is a Southern staple you don't want to miss.
- Unique Ingredient: Unripe green tomatoes fried to perfection
- Crispy Texture: Golden, crunchy exterior with a tender interior
- Pairing Options: Pairs well with Southern-style entrées such as fried catfish or shrimp and grits
7. Red Fish at Atlas Oyster House
Delicious red fish prepared with fresh herbs, lemon, and a zesty remoulade sauce. This dish showcases the best of Gulf Coast seafood.
- Sustainable Ingredient: Responsibly sourced red fish to support local ecosystems
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh, aromatic herbs elevate the flavor of the dish
- Traditional Preparation: Simply grilled or blackened, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine
8. Frogmore Stew at Peg Leg Pete's
A Lowcountry boil featuring shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes cooked to perfection. This dish is best enjoyed outdoors on the patio.
- Authentic Recipe: Traditional Lowcountry boil recipe from Beaufort, South Carolina
- Seasonal Ingredients: Includes fresh seasonal seafood, vegetables, and herbs
- Family-style Serving: Served family-style for a communal dining experience
9. Shrimp and Grits at The Tap Room
A Southern classic featuring succulent shrimp cooked with garlic and butter over creamy stone-ground grits. This dish offers comfort in every bite.
- Buttery Shrimp: Shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter for a rich, savory flavor
- Grits Preparation: Cooked with heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese for an indulgent texture
- Comfort Food: A warm, hearty dish perfect for chilly days or evenings
10. Oyster Rockefeller at The Fish House
An appetizer featuring fresh oysters baked with spinach, garlic, and cream. This classic dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Unique Presentation: Baked in individual dishes to resemble small cakes
- Rich Flavor: Creamy, rich flavor with a hint of garlic and spinach
- Historical Significance: Originates from Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans, dating back to the early 1900s
11. Seafood Paella at Ocean's Hidden Seafood
A traditional Spanish dish featuring a variety of seafood cooked with saffron rice. This dish offers a taste of the Mediterranean in Pensacola.
- Authentic Preparation: Prepared using authentic Spanish techniques and ingredients
- Seafood Variety: Includes shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari for a flavorful medley
- Saffron Aroma: Infused with saffron for a distinctive aromatic flavor
12. Blackened Redfish at The Bay
A spicy dish featuring blackened redfish served with dirty rice and grilled vegetables. This Creole-inspired meal offers a taste of Louisiana in Pensacola.
- Spicy Flavor: Blackened seasoning creates a bold, spicy crust
- Creole Influence: Inspired by Creole cooking techniques and flavors
- Healthy Option: Redfish is a lean, sustainable seafood choice
13. Fresh Catfish at The Grand Marlin
Savor juicy catfish prepared to perfection. This Southern staple is best enjoyed with hush puppies and collard greens.
- Locally Sourced: Catfish sourced from local waters for freshness
- Classic Southern Dish: A beloved Southern dish with a rich, flavorful history
- Crispy Texture: Golden-fried to create a crispy exterior and tender interior
14. Shrimp Tacos at The Little Red Fish Taqueria
Delicious shrimp tacos served with fresh salsa and a tangy coleslaw. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican cuisine.
- Fresh Ingredients: Locally sourced Gulf shrimp for freshness
- Unique Taste: A fusion of Mexican and Gulf Coast flavors
- Casual Dining: Enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio or grab it to go for a beach picnic
15. Key Lime Pie at Flounders Chowder House
A refreshing dessert made with key limes, condensed milk, and graham cracker crust. This classic pie is the perfect way to end a meal.
- Authentic Recipe: Follows the traditional Key West recipe for authenticity
- Refreshing Flavor: Tangy and sweet with a creamy texture
- Iconic Dessert: A beloved Southern dessert enjoyed by locals and visitors alike