5 Best Restaurants in Pensacola, Florida to Try

With powdery sands, a rich Creole heritage, and a river of Gulf seafood, Pensacola’s dining scene is as inviting and colorful as its sunsets.

1. The Fish House

Overlooking Seville Harbor, Fish House is the city’s signature for fresh catch—crispy “Grits à Ya Ya” (with smoked Gouda), Gulf oysters on the half shell or Rockefeller, blackened grouper, and inventive cocktails (try the Bushwacker).

The breezy, wraparound deck is the city’s favorite at sunset, with breezes, laugh-filled crowds, and live music most nights.

2. McGuire’s Irish Pub

A sprawling, quirky cathedral to Irish-American feasting, McGuire’s is best known for USDA Prime steaks, shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and 18-cent Senate Bean Soup.

Over a million dollar bills hang from the ceiling. Crowds sing along with live bands, devour house-brewed beer, and try to finish the five-pound burger.

The Sunday brunch is legendary, and regulars always bring out-of-towners.

3. Global Grill

Chic and intimate, Global Grill’s small plates menu is chef Irv Miller’s playground—grilled lamb lollipops, duck breast, Gulf crab cakes, seared scallops, and a regularly changing array of Spanish tapas and desserts.

Staff are sommelier-trained, and the cozy brick space feels miles away from resort-town bustle.

4. Jaco’s Bayfront Bar & Grille

Jaco’s brings locals and tourists together on its wide deck over the marina: flatbreads, fresh salads, sunset cocktails, and “Pensacola Pizza” (with local shrimp and veggies) star on the menu.

The servers love a good story, and it’s a city must for boat-watching and soaking up the last gold light of the day.

5. Polonza Bistro

Downtown’s “New Southern” landmark serves up baked shrimp and cheese grits, truffle fries, pimento cheeseburgers, farm-fresh omelets, and amazing homemade pickles.

Polonza’s inviting vibe and friendly staff make it a regular for both downtown workers and brunch-seeking families.