Your thoughts on these Restaurants?

[jlee745]

We will be arriving at Topsail Hill State Park in two weeks and was wondering if anyone can share their thoughts of the restaurants we want to try.
Bayou Bills Crab House
Fudpuckers
Jordano's Pizza (after a long day at the waterpark)
Whalestail for Breakfast(before waterpark)
We have two kids that are 8 and 10 so we didn't want anything to fancy.
I would love to hear of any other most try restaurants or things to do.
Oh yeah where is the best place to buy fresh seafood?
Is Big Kahuna worth the money?(I don't think I could get out of going if I wanted to,Kids seen it online)
Sorry for so many questions!!! Dreaming of a perfect vacation.

[Smiling JOe]

Big Kahuna is worth the money.
If you are trying to keep to the less fancy restaurants, those you listed will be in that category. The Donut Hole is just around the corner from Tops'l, and will also be a good choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner -- great breakfast and great sandwiches and burgers.
For raw seafood, Shirmpers, located just a mile or two east of the Donut Hole, is a good source. You mentioned fresh seafood, and I'm not sure if you mean ready to eat, as in a restaurant, or raw, as in a market. :idontno:

[Paula]

I love the Big Kahuna with kids, but we only go off-season (August) when it's not crowded. I don't know what it would be like in peak time. We love the Back Porch - restaurant right on the beach in Destin, and go there after a morning/day at the Big Kahuna water park - and other times, too. I didn't enjoy Fudpuckers that much because it was very crowded for so-so food (I think it's a bit of a tourist trap because the advertising is very good) that wasn't much different than what we could get anywhere else -- e.g., a Ruby Tuesdays, Appleby's, etc.

[Paula]

:welcome: jlee745. Also consider Coco's which is Mexican food near Sandestin in a small older strip mall but would be great for kids and I know many SoWallers on this board go there frequently. Probably reasonable cost for dining out with kids. We also like to just get take-out at Publix and eat on our own porch which can be easier with kids.

[scooterbug44]

Definitely Shrimper's for fresh seafood. If you want, they will also steam your selection of fresh shrimp etc. w/ your choice of spice for no additional charge. If your kids like shrimp it's a very easy meal! And if they've got fresh crab cakes..........

[rapunzel]

I'd go with Stinky's Fish Camp over Fudpucker's. Stinky's is casual and family friendly, but the food is pretty good and it's local, fresh, interesting. It's also closer...just east of you on 30-A in Dune Allen.

[jlee745]

Thanks so much for the quick replies. I was talking about raw fresh seafood. Has anyone tried Jordano's Pizza. Everyone on Rv.net raves about it.
I originally wanted to try Donut Hole but after research some people posted that it was to high and that it was not as good as it use to be. So I was unsure? Read that Whalestail had a wonderful view in the morning of those dolphins heading east.........
Where is the closest/best grocery store to Topsail?

[John R]

Jordano's must get rave reviews because it's right across from camping on the gulf. i was in jordano's for the broasted chicken. excellent, prepared while you wait. while waiting, owner brought out two samples of pizza for an incoming family. they must have weighed 10# each, and were at least 4" tall. he closes his sandwich bar early, so i can't comment on his subs.

donut hole is great. try it and make your own determination. definitely cheaper than another broken egg. $$

big kahuna, definitely worth it, after going there, you'll be glad you did. they serve food(panhandle's mover of more fried chicken than anywhere), but it's pricey. not sure if you can bring your own stuff in, but i would. mellow mushroom right down the street.

bayou bill's, go early, way early. kids will have a blast.

fudpuckers, haven't been since i've lived here.

[beachmouse]

If you're in the Destin area, I do like Fudpucker's if you're there before 7:30pm or so with kids. (It gets kind of club-like later at night) Decent food for that level of place, and the kids will think the alligator area is very cool. It's probably the only place you'll see gators down here. They're rather shy otherwise. Though note that I can't vouch for everything on the menu because I got thoroughly hooked on their blackend tuna sandwich when we lived down the road from their Okaloosa Island restaurant and eat the same thing every time I'm back there.

I'm not thrilled with the Back Porch/Pompano Joe's/ Fisherman's Wharf family of restuarants because their quality control on the fish isn't the greatest. Not dangerous or anything, just a lower grade of product than you'll get at other places. If you have to eat on the beach, Crab Trap is probably somewhat better in that regard.

Publix is the good grocery store chain in the area. They're not quite at Whole Foods/Wild Oats level, but they do middlebrow well, and you can get decent produce and bread that tastes like bread and not high fructose corn syrup there.

[SGB]

Thanks so much for the quick replies. I was talking about raw fresh seafood. Has anyone tried Jordano's Pizza. Everyone on Rv.net raves about it.
I originally wanted to try Donut Hole but after research some people posted that it was to high and that it was not as good as it use to be. So I was unsure? Read that Whalestail had a wonderful view in the morning of those dolphins heading east.........
Where is the closest/best grocery store to Topsail?


We love Jordano's vegetarian pizza. Better than the standard Pizza Hut. We also like Donut Hole, but have to admit we haven't been there in a while. Whalestail is right on the beach and has a great view. The view is the atmosphere.

The best and closest grocery store is the Publix on 98 near Mack Bayou Road and the hospital. Very close to Topsail.

The kids will love Big Kahunas. We actually prefer Shipwreck Island in Panama City Beach, which is a bit further away, but traffic is better. We've been told by both waterparks that during the summer, the weekends are the best time to go. All the visitors are in the process of checking in or out then. They're still pretty crowded on the weekends, but not as bad.

We don't like the food at Fudpuckers, but the kids will probably like the atmosphere. Although it's a chain and you're probably looking for something different, our kids love Beef O'Bradys in the Sandestin Marketplace, which is close to Topsail. There is a game room and TVs at most tables. If you like BarBQue, 98 Bar B Que is just east of Topsail by a couple of miles and their food is good, and reasonable. Open for lunch and dinner. The 331 Cafe at the southern base of the 331 bridge is a good place for dinner, although it's not right near Topsail, it's worth the short drive.

[Mango]

Jordano's must get rave reviews because it's right across from camping on the gulf. i was in jordano's for the broasted chicken. excellent, prepared while you wait. while waiting, owner brought out two samples of pizza for an incoming family. they must have weighed 10# each, and were at least 4" tall. he closes his sandwich bar early, so i can't comment on his subs.

donut hole is great. try it and make your own determination. definitely cheaper than another broken egg. $$

big kahuna, definitely worth it, after going there, you'll be glad you did. they serve food(panhandle's mover of more fried chicken than anywhere), but it's pricey. not sure if you can bring your own stuff in, but i would. mellow mushroom right down the street.

bayou bill's, go early, way early. kids will have a blast.

fudpuckers, haven't been since i've lived here.

We love the sandwiches at Jordano's. Haven't been to any of the other places, John listed except for Fudpuckers. I think this is the place with alligators. Ok if you have kids, especially small ones since they have tv's at some tables with cartoons on.

[goodwitch58]

Whale's Tail is great for the deck overlooking the Gulf and it's casual. Breakfast is good--and grouper sandwiches are good. But, I like it for the ability to sit and watch the waves, especially at sunset. It is a quick, cheap place for a bit with a view.

[jlee745]

We were mainly going to Fudpuckers for the gators and I love their tshirts. Does anyone know the store hours for Shrimpers?

[seacrestkristi]

Where is Shrimper's please? :idontno:
:welcome: jlee745!
I just had the yummiest shrimp dinner in Jax for $11.95 at a place called Gene's with like 18 shrimp on it. Just in case anyone is going to Jax for anything. :idontno:
How much is Shrimpers shrimp dinner? Is it down home or upscale? Do they fry shrimp right, lightly floured? It's just not right when the batter just falls off revealing an overcooked rubbery shrimp. That's what happened to us at Bayou Bill's on 98. The one by Winn Dixie though, the steamed dinner was good.
We tried that Hunt's Oyster Bar, Kurt was talkin' about in another thread, in PC and it was really good. I love those kinda down home places. Those steamed oysters rocked my flip flops off. :wub: Plus who doesn't love a loud old timey jukebox :idontno:

[goodwitch58]

they are often late, 7 p.m. sometimes, but I would call to be sure before you go.

[Smiling JOe]

John R is right about the location of Jordano's being the key for the Camping on the Gulf RV park, located across the street. The pizza is average.

Donut Hole is great, though you will find the breakfast prices higher than the lunch prices, but you can get a burger for breakfast like I do. ;-)

[Smiling JOe]

Where is Shrimper's please? :idontno:

see post #2

[scooterbug44]

Where is Shrimper's please? :idontno:
:welcome: jlee745!
I just had the yummiest shrimp dinner in Jax for $11.95 at a place called Gene's with like 18 shrimp on it. Just in case anyone is going to Jax for anything. :idontno:
How much is Shrimpers shrimp dinner? Is it down home or upscale? Do they fry shrimp right, lightly floured? It's just not right when the batter just falls off revealing an overcooked rubbery shrimp. That's what happened to us at Bayou Bill's on 98. The one by Winn Dixie though, the steamed dinner was good.
We tried that Hunt's Oyster Bar, Kurt was talkin' about in another thread, in PC and it was really good. I love those kinda down home places. Those steamed oysters rocked my flip flops off. :wub: Plus who doesn't love a loud old timey jukebox :idontno:
Shrimpers is a fresh seafood store, (not a restaurant) on hwy 98 near Mussett Bayou Road - look for the cafe provence sign if traveling east and the flags and red letters on a white bulding if heading west.

[Paula]

Aha! Go to Amore on 30A for pizza. It's on the west end so it will be pretty close to you (at Gulf Place). It has a big outdoor dining area and smaller indoor dining area.

[jdarg]

We were mainly going to Fudpuckers for the gators and I love their tshirts. Does anyone know the store hours for Shrimpers?


And you are aware of what the Fudpucker's t-shirts say? As in lots of plays on the f-word? :idontno:

We went once- never again. Filthy. The alligators do absolutely nothing but look dead.

I would knock this place off your list for sure!

[scooterbug44]

Aha! Go to Amore on 30A for pizza. It's on the west end so it will be pretty close to you (at Gulf Place). It has a big outdoor dining area and smaller indoor dining area.

Yes! Great pizza and the kids will love the cheesy bread!

[Miss Kitty]

And you are aware of what the Fudpucker's t-shirts say? As in lots of plays on the f-word? :idontno:

We went once- never again. Filthy. The alligators do absolutely nothing but look dead.

I would knock this place off your list for sure!

Another reason I :wub: you. Once is definitely too many times for Fud's. Even my little kids were wanting to leave.

[seacrestkristi]

Thanks for Shrimper's info ya'll. Where's Whales' Tail? :idontno:
We liked the Donut Hole when we tried it.

[Beachlover2]

Whales Tail is off Old 98 - just West of the outlet mall - It is part of Seascape. Right on the beach - and breakfast watching the dolphins is great. Or sunset in the fall with a cocktail two isn't too bad either

Just down from Whales Tail is Theo's Pizza. Pretty decent - Local hangout.

[30A Skunkape]

Yes, cheeseburger at Whale's Tail upstairs. A word to the wise-if you are going to do the Donut Hole, get there early as it is jam-packed by 10AM this time of year, and bring cash;it is cash only, and you can use the ATM on site if you are OK with a $3 transaction fee (on top of whatever your bank hits you with)!

There is no excuse to go to Fuddpucker's unless your kids are nagging you to death. Expect to experience a mega-madhouse of overstimulated kids, terribly mediocre yet expensive food and entry level service.

Nobody mentioned the bagel place in Destin. We did breakfast there and it was really good!

[seacrestkristi]

Thanks BL2, I'll have to check it out when I'm down on that end of town some time. :cool:

[beachpirate]

I know it's a little bit of a drive but my fav. is Dewey Destin. It's the last street before you go over the bridge to Ft. Walton. Sit on the piers and eat,great views. it's getting busier but it's still a great smaller (locals) place to eat.

[Beachlover2]

I agree about Dewey Destins - had lunch there a couple of weeks ago - fresh - fresh fish - (not SYSCO) great views - a lot of locals there for lunch as well. My mahi mahi sandwich was around 8 dollars with fries and cole slaw. Not too bad for a fresh fish sandwich. If you haven't been there before go in to order - don't just sit down and wait for a waitress. When your order is ready they call out your name - wave and they will bring the food to your picnic table. When we were there the dolphins were swimming back and forth within 15 feet of the dock. Very picturesque. This is my sons favorite place - 2nd goes to Borago.

[DD]

I know it's a little bit of a drive but my fav. is Dewey Destin. It's the last street before you go over the bridge to Ft. Walton. Sit on the piers and eat,great views. it's getting busier but it's still a great smaller (locals) place to eat.

I agree about Dewey Destins - had lunch there a couple of weeks ago - fresh - fresh fish - (not SYSCO) great views - a lot of locals there for lunch as well. My mahi mahi sandwich was around 8 dollars with fries and cole slaw. Not too bad for a fresh fish sandwich. If you haven't been there before go in to order - don't just sit down and wait for a waitress. When your order is ready they call out your name - wave and they will bring the food to your picnic table. When we were there the dolphins were swimming back and forth within 15 feet of the dock. Very picturesque. This is my sons favorite place - 2nd goes to Borago.

I too love Dewey Destin. :clap:

[Beach Runner]

jlee745,
Before we discovered SoWal, we used to stay in SanDestin. We really liked the pizzas at Jordano's. Daughter and I liked the chicken and tomato, hubby liked the Italian sausage. We would have it at least twice during a weeklong visit. Now we'll stop there about once every two years on the way back from Destin to pick up a pizza to take back to SoWal. I'd say the pizza is better than Bruno's, way better than Angelina's, and Amoré doesn't compare because it's of a different genre.

We used to eat at Captain Jewel Melvin's for old-school seafood platters, La Paz, and Marina Café and Flamingo Café for more upscale food. I'm not sure which of those are there any more.

There are numerous great restaurants on 30-A that are discussed in another thread.

Oh, and daughter always had fun at Big Kahuna when she was younger. I don't know if it's worth the money for adults, but the kids get their money's worth.

Have funn!

[Chia Pet]

Fudpuckers was smelly and dirty. I also took issue with the alligators being on display there. Looked like too many in one area. The service was awful too.

[Beachlover2]

Forgot to mention - while there - heard that Dewey Destin was planning on opening in the "new" harbor area. Was told they would still keep the current location open - Hope so!!!!

BR

La Paz - Marina Cafe and Flamingo Cafe are all still open.

[Miss Kitty]

Forgot to mention - while there - heard that Dewey Destin was planning on opening in the "new" harbor area. Was told they would still keep the current location open - Hope so!!!!

BR

La Paz - Marina Cafe and Flamingo Cafe are all still open.

Where is Flamingo Cafe? I thought they closed years ago. :idontno: We loved the original and thought it went down hill when it expanded.

[Beachlover2]

You are right - I forgot it is now Destin Chops. Sorry. I think Flamingo Cafe closed about 2 years ago.

[truluv]

what about Blue Orleans for breakfast all day and night!:lolabove:

[ozbeachmom]

We love Blue Orleans!! And Dewey Destins can't be beat for the food, atmosphere and the kids love the fact that the dolphins swim right up to the dock! :D

[scooterbug44]

Is stinky fish camp open for lunch yet?

[jlee745]

Ok we have dropped the plans for Fudpuckers and planning on going to Dewey Destin. I was wondering if it will be to hot to go eat lunch there.(will be visiting in 2 wks). What is a good time to get there. We were either wanting to eat first and then hit the outlet mall/destin commons or shopping first and then eating.
Also what does everyone recommend?

[SGB]

Ok we have dropped the plans for Fudpuckers and planning on going to Dewey Destin. I was wondering if it will be to hot to go eat lunch there.(will be visiting in 2 wks). What is a good time to get there. We were either wanting to eat first and then hit the outlet mall/destin commons or shopping first and then eating.
Also what does everyone recommend?

Good choice! We've eaten there in the middle of summer and there are umbrellas and since you're right on the water there is usually a breeze to keep you comfortable. I think they are closed on Mondays, so check their hours before you go.

[jlee745]

Ok we have dropped the plans for Fudpuckers and planning on going to Dewey Destin. I was wondering if it will be to hot to go eat lunch there.(will be visiting in 2 wks). What is a good time to get there. We were either wanting to eat first and then hit the outlet mall/destin commons or shopping first and then eating.

What is your fav. thing to eat at Dewey Destin?

[Paula]

We always try to eat a little earlier than most so that we can avoid the busiest period, especially when we're with the kids. If we're going to spend a bit of money, we try to find a place where the kids can go outside when they're done eating so that we can take our time with our meals. We figure we're on vacation so we don't have to go with a regular eating schedule!

[Camp Creek Kid]

A word to the wise-if you are going to do the Donut Hole, get there early as it is jam-packed by 10AM this time of year, and bring cash;it is cash only, and you can use the ATM on site if you are OK with a $3 transaction fee (on top of whatever your bank hits you with)!


Donut Hole--breakfast is the most crowded--get there early. Lunch is o.k. if you get there before 11:30. However, dinner is the best time to go (IMO) because for some reason, it is never crowded. I guess it is thought of more as a breakfast place. They have bakery goods for sale, but are out of a lot of things by lunch time. Also, you can order a cheeseburger for breakfast (re: Smiling JOe) or Eggs Benedict for dinner. We like it a lot and the food and prices have stayed consistent in the 6 yrs. we've lived here.

We haven't tried any of the other restaurants. We attempted Fudpucker's once, but left because it was like Spring Break in there.

[Scooter]

I love Dewey Destin. The freshest shrimp.

[Beachlover2]

jlee

I always get the catch of the day and have never been disappointed. Remember this is where the fishing boats come in with the catch before they deliver it to Destin Ice and restaurants around the area - can't get much fresher than this.

[audie]

John R is right about the location of Jordano's being the key for the Camping on the Gulf RV park, located across the street. The pizza is average.

Donut Hole is great, though you will find the breakfast prices higher than the lunch prices, but you can get a burger for breakfast like I do. ;-)


me too ! burgers are very good,esp. for breakfast


Donut Hole--breakfast is the most crowded--get there early. Lunch is o.k. if you get there before 11:30. However, dinner is the best time to go (IMO) because for some reason, it is never crowded. I guess it is thought of more as a breakfast place. They have bakery goods for sale, but are out of a lot of things by lunch time. Also, you can order a cheeseburger for breakfast (re: Smiling JOe) or Eggs Benedict for dinner. We like it a lot and the food and prices have stayed consistent in the 6 yrs. we've lived here.

We haven't tried any of the other restaurants. We attempted Fudpucker's once, but left because it was like Spring Break in there.

every time we go by there after about 6 pm the parking lot is close to empty...

[Dune-AHH]

JMO -- Don Pedro's beats Donut Hole hands down.
Don Pedro's is in the "newer" strip center on Hwy 98 not far east of the west end of 30-A (think it's Santa Rosa Center?). Great for breakfast (AMAZING pancakes), lunch, and dinner (wonderful burgers & cuban sandwiches). VERY casual, both mexican & american food.

[Grayton Kid]

Stink's Fish Camp Is A Must Go To. Dewey Destins Rocks