The Best Restaurants in Santa Rosa Beach, FL, to Try in 2023

Santa Rosa Beach, nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, is known for its beautiful beaches, fantastic weather, and laid-back lifestyle. It is also a popular tourist destination with plenty of restaurants offering mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you are a fan of oysters or sushi, burgers or Italian, there is something sure to tantalize your taste buds.

This blog highlights some of the best restaurants in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, that you don’t want to miss in 2023. If you are hungry for something special, keep reading.

If you want delicious seafood, Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar is a must-visit in Santa Rosa. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., this fantastic eatery features a mix of street-level and outdoor seating and a second-floor dining area with open windows overlooking the Gulf.

With its cozy and inviting ambiance, Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar invites intimate dinner dates and large family gatherings. Indulge in popular menu items, such as the snapper sandwich with coleslaw, hamburgers, award-winning cocktails, and craft beers. Be sure to check out the restaurant's variety of fresh seafood offerings, from oysters to entrees.

The Bay is a top-tier restaurant situated on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay. This popular lunch spot offers a menu that features southern Gulf Coast cuisine, sushi, draft beer, wine, and inventive cocktails. What sets The Bay apart from other restaurants is its small plates, salads, seafood platters, and faux ya ya — a spin on shrimp and grits that is a must-try.

The Bay is renowned for its scenic views and delicious menu, making it a top choice for locals and visitors. You will find an ample selection if you are a wine lover or enjoy craft beer. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling or visiting their website.

Chopstix is a charming restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine every day from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The menu offers various appetizers, entrées, and desserts using high-quality ingredients and fresh flavors. If you are looking for an exceptional dining experience in Santa Rosa Beach, Chopstix should be at the top of your list. The friendly atmosphere and cordial staff make the eating experience delightful. Some must-try dishes include chicken chow mein, chicken broccoli, spare ribs, and seafood dishes like shrimp and cashew nuts.

Thai Elephant is an excellent choice if you are looking for a unique, exotic dining experience in Santa Rosa Beach. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and serves some of the best Thai food in town. Thai Elephant offers a variety of starters, entrees, curries, and desserts, all prepared with fresh ingredients. Among customers' popular choices include Pad Thai and fried rice. They can also accommodate your spice level preferences, so do not hesitate to ask the helpful staff to customize your food.

Another Broken Egg Cafe in nearby Miramar Beach is a must-visit spot for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The cafe offers many breakfast dishes, including omelets, pancakes, and benedicts. They also have an array of lunch selections, such as delectable sandwiches and salads. Another Broken Egg is famous for using fresh and local ingredients and dishes made to order. The cafe features kid-friendly menu options, making it an excellent family dining spot. Another Broken Egg Cafe is also health-conscious, offering healthy options for customers who prefer nutritious meals.

Just 15 miles from Santa Rosa Beach, Amici is one of the best authentic Italian restaurants. They specialize in traditional Italian fare, including veal and seafood dishes and hand-tossed New York-style pizzas. Amici Italian Kitchen has a distinct old-world essence that sets the perfect ambiance for your dining experience.

Amici's chefs use fresh ingredients and high-quality products to prepare every dish. The knowledgeable and friendly staff is always on standby to make your dining experience worthwhile. The restaurant also boasts a wine bar with a well-rounded menu catering to discerning palates. Take-out options are also available.

If you are looking for authentic Chinese cooking in Santa Rosa Beach, Basmati's Asian Cuisine is a go-to. The restaurant offers a vast range of dishes created by experienced chefs to cater to both traditional and modern tastes. This is the place to go to set a romantic mood.

The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and provides indoor and outdoor seating, offering a picturesque lakeside view to pair with your meal. You can also find an extensive wine list and small-plate sushi to make your dining experience even more flavorful.

Chanticleer Eatery is a must-visit Santa Rosa Beach eatery. Visitors can relish popular menu items like ribeye, pork chops, shrimp, grits, smoky jambalaya, and juicy burgers. Chanticleer Eatery also offers delectable dessert options, such as made-from-scratch cookies, cakes, and key lime pie. With both indoor and outdoor seating arrangements, visitors can enjoy the lovely ambiance of the restaurant while dining.

If you want a fantastic restaurant with a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico while serving delicious meals, head to Havana Beach Bar & Grill in Rosemary Beach. This popular eatery in The Pearl Hotel features a beautiful rooftop lounge that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and Main Street.

The menu draws inspiration from the southern Gulf coast, Mexican fishing villages, and Cuba. The hand-carved mahogany bar in the lounge may even elicit thoughts of Hemingway's Havana. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features indoor and outdoor seating areas. You can also enjoy a tasty brunch on the weekends.

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