The Best Restaurants in Pensacola

By Brady Jonas

Pensacola, Florida, might be known for its beaches, but the food scene here is worth a stop of its own. From seafood shacks to upscale bistros, this city offers a variety of dining experiences that could make even the most seasoned traveler pause between bites. Here are five restaurants that capture the essence of Pensacola, where you can eat like a local and leave feeling like a regular.

1. The Fish House

If there’s one thing The Fish House knows how to do, it’s serve up Gulf Coast seafood with a side of Southern hospitality. Located right on the water, this spot is famous for its Grits à Ya Ya, a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to say. The Fish House isn't just about the seafood, though—you'll find a little bit of everything here, from steaks to salads, for those who somehow end up at a seafood joint without liking seafood. But let's be honest, you're here for the fish.

2. Global Grill

When you need a break from beachy fare, Global Grill has you covered with tapas that could make a Spaniard raise an eyebrow. This downtown gem serves small plates with big flavors, blending influences from across the globe. Whether you're in the mood for lamb lollipops or sushi-grade tuna, Global Grill lets you mix and match like a pro. It’s the kind of place where you order something you've never heard of, and it ends up being the best thing you've ever tasted.

3. McGuire’s Irish Pub

A Pensacola institution, McGuire’s Irish Pub is where you go when you want a pint, a steak, and a story. The place is decked out with over a million one-dollar bills hanging from the ceiling, which feels both charming and slightly concerning if you think too hard about fire safety. But you’re not here for safety; you’re here for steak, shepherd’s pie, and maybe a bit of live music. McGuire's is a great place to get loud with friends—or make new ones.

4. Jackson’s Steakhouse

For those who like their meals with a side of history, Jackson’s Steakhouse has been serving up prime cuts in Pensacola’s historic downtown for decades. Named after Andrew Jackson, this steakhouse knows its way around a beef tenderloin. It’s the kind of place where you can close a business deal over a bone-in ribeye or celebrate an anniversary with a glass of fine wine. Either way, you leave a little richer in experience (if slightly poorer in wallet).

5. George Bistro + Bar

George Bistro + Bar offers a modern twist on Southern cuisine, with a menu that changes with the seasons. It's the perfect place for brunch, lunch, or one of those dinners that starts with craft cocktails and ends with you deciding the calories don’t count on vacation. George’s cozy atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients make it a favorite among Pensacola’s foodies. You’ll leave wondering how they made a simple chicken dish taste so good.

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