Pensacola’s comfort food is beachy and soulful—fried seafood baskets, creamy grits, po’boys, and coastal casseroles.
These five spots keep locals full and happy.
The Fish House
A waterfront staple, The Fish House pairs dockside views with seriously comforting plates.
Start with Grits à Ya Ya—smoked gouda grits topped with blackened shrimp and bacon—which is a signature for a reason.
Fried seafood platters are crisp and plentiful, the seafood gumbo’s rich and peppery, and the blackened fish sandwiches hit the spot for lunch.
McGuire’s Irish Pub
This sprawling, proudly eccentric pub is a Pensacola institution.
Expect shepherd’s pie with deep, meaty gravy, corned beef and cabbage, and steaks big enough to share.
The split pea soup is a cozy classic, and the house-brewed root beer floats make dessert feel like childhood.
Dollar bills line the ceilings, the service is jovial, and the portions are generous.
Jerry’s Drive-In
Old-school and beloved, Jerry’s serves diner comfort at its most honest.
The cheeseburgers are griddled just right, the fish sandwiches are golden and flaky, and the onion rings are a must.
Daily blue-plate specials—meatloaf, country-fried steak, turkey and dressing—arrive with classic sides and a heavy dose of nostalgia.
Blue Dot Barbecue
A tiny spot with a big reputation, Blue Dot is famous for its juicy burgers and no-frills barbecue.
The patties are thick and peppery, served on squishy buns, and the ribs carry smoke and a satisfying chew.
It’s cash-only, old-school, and absolutely worth the detour.
Five Sisters Blues Café
Comfort meets soul at this local favorite.
Fried chicken has shattering-crisp skin, the shrimp and grits are creamy and savory, and the meatloaf with tomato gravy is textbook. Sides—collards, yams, mac and cheese—are all hits.
Live music adds to the warm, communal feel, especially at brunch.
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