Hey there, seafood lovers! If you're planning a trip to Port St. Joe, Florida, or maybe you're a local craving some delicious ocean fare, you're in for a treat. Port St. Joe is brimming with fantastic seafood restaurants that offer everything from fresh catches of the day to classic coastal dishes. Let’s dive into some of the best seafood restaurants this charming town has to offer. Get ready to explore the culinary delights and hidden gems that make Port St. Joe a seafood paradise!

1. The Thirsty Pelican

Let's kick things off with The Thirsty Pelican, a local favorite known for its laid-back atmosphere and mouth-watering seafood. This spot is perfect for those who want to enjoy great food without any fuss. The Thirsty Pelican prides itself on serving fresh, locally-sourced seafood, ensuring that every dish bursts with flavor. Whether you're in the mood for grilled fish, succulent shrimp, or tasty oysters, this place has something to satisfy every palate.

What makes The Thirsty Pelican stand out is not just the quality of the food, but also the friendly and welcoming service. The staff here goes above and beyond to make sure every guest feels at home. Imagine sitting on their outdoor patio, enjoying a cold drink, and savoring some of the best seafood Port St. Joe has to offer. It’s the kind of experience that keeps people coming back for more.

And speaking of the menu, be sure to try their signature dishes. The grilled grouper is a must-try, cooked to perfection and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that will leave you craving more. The shrimp and grits is another crowd-pleaser, featuring creamy grits and plump, juicy shrimp. And don't forget to check out their daily specials, which often include unique and seasonal seafood creations. The Thirsty Pelican is more than just a restaurant; it's a community hub where locals and tourists alike come together to enjoy great food and good company.

2. Joe Mama's Wood Fired Kitchen

Next up, we have Joe Mama's Wood Fired Kitchen. While they're known for their incredible pizzas, don't underestimate their amazing seafood offerings. Joe Mama's brings a unique twist to coastal cuisine by incorporating wood-fired cooking techniques, which adds a smoky and distinct flavor to their dishes. This is the spot to visit if you're looking for something a little different but equally delicious.

At Joe Mama's, the focus is on using high-quality ingredients and creating dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Their wood-fired oysters are a standout, infused with smoky flavors that complement the natural brininess of the oysters. The grilled seafood platter is another excellent choice, featuring a variety of fresh catches cooked to perfection over an open flame. And of course, you can always pair your seafood with one of their signature wood-fired pizzas for a truly unforgettable meal.

The ambiance at Joe Mama's is just as impressive as the food. The restaurant has a rustic and inviting feel, with a warm and cozy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. Whether you're dining indoors or out on their patio, you're sure to have a memorable experience. And let's not forget about their extensive drink menu, which includes a variety of craft beers, wines, and cocktails to perfectly complement your meal. Joe Mama's Wood Fired Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Port St. Joe's culinary scene.

3. St. Joe Beach Pier

For a more casual and scenic dining experience, head over to St. Joe Beach Pier. This isn't your typical restaurant, but rather a fantastic spot to enjoy fresh seafood while taking in breathtaking views of the Gulf. Several local vendors set up shop here, offering a variety of seafood options, from grilled fish sandwiches to steamed shrimp and more.

The beauty of St. Joe Beach Pier lies in its simplicity. You can grab a bite to eat from one of the vendors, find a spot on the pier, and enjoy your meal while watching the waves roll in. It's the perfect way to relax and soak up the natural beauty of Port St. Joe. Plus, the prices are generally very reasonable, making it an affordable option for families and budget-conscious travelers.

While the offerings may be more casual than a traditional restaurant, the quality of the seafood is still top-notch. Many of the vendors source their seafood locally, ensuring that you're getting the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. And let's not forget about the incredible sunsets you can witness from the pier. There's nothing quite like enjoying a delicious seafood meal while watching the sky light up with vibrant colors. St. Joe Beach Pier is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to combine great food with stunning scenery.

4. Sunset Coastal Grill

If you're looking for a restaurant that combines delicious seafood with stunning waterfront views, Sunset Coastal Grill is the place to be. As the name suggests, this spot is known for its spectacular sunsets, which provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. But it's not just the views that make Sunset Coastal Grill special; the food is equally impressive.

The menu at Sunset Coastal Grill features a wide variety of seafood dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From grilled fish and shrimp to oysters and crab cakes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try their signature dishes, such as the grilled scallops or the seafood pasta, both of which are bursting with flavor. And don't forget to check out their daily specials, which often feature unique and seasonal creations.

The atmosphere at Sunset Coastal Grill is relaxed and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends and family. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can choose the option that best suits your preferences. And let's not forget about their extensive drink menu, which includes a variety of wines, beers, and cocktails to perfectly complement your meal. Sunset Coastal Grill is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Port St. Joe's seafood scene while enjoying breathtaking views.

5. Provisions

Last but not least, we have Provisions, a charming seafood market and eatery that offers a unique and authentic coastal experience. This spot is perfect for those who want to enjoy fresh, locally-sourced seafood in a casual and relaxed setting. Provisions is more than just a restaurant; it's a place where you can learn about the local seafood industry and connect with the people who make it all possible.

At Provisions, you can choose from a variety of fresh seafood options, including fish, shrimp, oysters, and more. You can either purchase the seafood to take home and cook yourself, or you can have them prepare it for you on the spot. Their grilled fish sandwiches are a popular choice, as are their steamed shrimp and oyster platters. And be sure to check out their daily specials, which often feature unique and seasonal seafood creations.

What makes Provisions stand out is their commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing. They work closely with local fishermen to ensure that all of their seafood is caught using environmentally friendly methods. This means that you can enjoy your meal knowing that you're supporting a business that cares about the health of the ocean. Provisions is a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to experience the best of Port St. Joe's seafood scene while supporting a sustainable and responsible business.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A guide to the best seafood restaurants in Port St. Joe, Florida. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal on the pier, a romantic dinner with waterfront views, or a unique and authentic coastal experience, Port St. Joe has something to offer everyone. So next time you're in town, be sure to check out these amazing seafood spots and treat yourself to some of the freshest and most delicious ocean fare around. You won't be disappointed!