it’s a strip of beauty that stretches between Pensacola and Panama City on the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida, between Pensacola and Panama City.

It’s one of Florida’s best-kept secrets; a world away from the blazing nightlife of Miami and the frantic theme parks of Orlando. Quiet expanses of powder white beaches, secret state parks with a variety of ecosystems, and turquoise waters teeming with dolphins and the region’s famous seafood can all be found here.

The best places to eat in the area are in Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa Island, and Destin. The Emerald Coast should be at the top of your list if you like wide beaches and an abundance of nature.

That’s before we even talk about the beautiful weather all year, southern charm, and amazing Gulf-to-table dining.

1) AJ’s Oyster Shanty

Destin is also known as the luckiest fishing community in the world. Jetty fishing, deep sea fishing, charter fishing, and, of course, eating the delectable catches are all popular activities.

There are a lot of fantastic restaurants to try all of this seafood in Florida, and AJ’s is one of them. This is the place to get some cocktails to go with your crab claws, sit outside at a table, and eat your feast while listening to a live band.

The fried pickles, boiled shrimp, and smoked tuna dip are all must-tries. Served with melted butter, new potatoes, and corn the sweet and soft Snow Crab legs are also a must. In the crab-cracking game, patience is a virtue; endure with it and the reward will be worth it. And don’t forget about the bib!

2) Asiago Skillet, Destin & Fort Walton Beach. 

Florida and substantial southern breakfasts go hand in hand, and both Asiago Skillet restaurants are excellent places to start your day. These places are family-owned and run, and they clearly have a passion for what they do, as evidenced by their long list of devoted customers.

The menu features a variety of skillet prepared foods that sound delicious. The Steak Skillet includes potatoes, sirloin, onions, peppers, mushrooms, asiago cheese, and two eggs.

Expect fluffy buttermilk pancakes the size of frisbees, hearty omelettes and American classics. There are lots of classic southern breakfast selections including biscuits with gravy, ham, sausage, bacon, and eggs.

The service is excellent, and the ambience is warm and inviting. There’s also a Bloody Mary bar where you can make your own.

3) Jackacuda’s, Destin

If you want to enjoy the local fish on the Emerald Coast Jackacuda’s in Destin is one of the greatest places to do so.

You’ll want to head straight for their colourful and brilliant specialty sushi rolls, which are located right in the centre of Harborwalk Village. The Backdown, with shrimp tempura, spicy lobster, jalapeño cream cheese, baked spicy crab, avocado and eel sauce is their signature dish, and it’s stunning.

Salmon, snow crab, tuna, yellowtail, and albacore are among the other seafood options on their sushi menu. They also serve a variety of seafood main courses, including blackened snapper, mahi mahi, and shrimp and grits from the south. Take a seat outside in the sun or shade, with a view of the boardwalk, and order a locally brewed beer to accompany your meal.

4) Fort Walton Beach’s Rockin’ Tacos

As destinations in Florida go you can bet this is one of the restaurants that is most packed during spring break. The vista over the powder white beach from this location on Okaloosa Island is worth a visit in and of itself.

This is the spot to go for Mexican-inspired cuisine and tequila cocktails while relaxing on the sun-drenched veranda.

The flavours at this Fort Walton Beach restaurant are fresh and excellent, from burritos and fajitas to burgers and quesadillas. Definitely don’t miss their avocado fries with chipotle aioli and coriander dip to start.

Then, for the best seafood selections, travel to their specialties section.

Try charred or grilled fish tacos topped with a spicy pineapple and mango habanero salsa. Tacos with shrimp, roasted red peppers, and green onions in a sweet and spicy salsa. Baja fish tacos with beer battered white fish, pico de gallo, and guacamole are also available.

The venue is still bustling in the evenings, with a late-night taco buffet and a house DJ. It’s a terrific spot to go from day to night.

5) The Gulf, Okaloosa Island’s bayside

When you first walk in, this two-story, largely al fresco waterfront drinking and dining establishment is a bit of a show-stopper. The room is made up of recycled and salvaged cargo containers and features a large and flexible floor plan.

There’s enough outdoor furniture strewn across the grass and sand to make you never want to leave. People can even arrive by boat at the dock.
Their seasonal menu features locally sourced ingredients and the venue includes table tennis on the grass, two bars, and a gift shop. Don’t be surprised if you see undecided groups hanging by the full-size menu unable to choose what to have.

6) The Local Market, Destin

The Local Market in Destin (from the same proprietors as Harbor Docks above) specializes in fresh and excellent breakfasts and lunches.  If you arrive before 11 a.m., you can expect avocado toast and corned beef hash with eggs.

You’ll have a hard time deciding which gourmet sandwich to have for lunch as they all look delicious. Also don’t miss their homemade ice cream and juice bar, which are created and bottled in-house.

7) Destin’s Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House

BoShamps, with its magnificent views of Destin Harbor, is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal. They serve fresh and local catches of the day, and you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and warm southern hospitality.

Chef Andi Bell, recognised a Rising Star of American Cuisine by the James Beard Foundation, works in the kitchen. Local baby spinach and artichoke hearts coated in melted cheese like a fondue are among the dishes on his menu. There’s also lobster mac ‘n cheese, duck confit cassoulet from the Gulf Coast, and plenty of local seafood.

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Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino 

This Tampa casino hotel has a total area of 245,000 square feet. It is one of the largest casinos in Florida and run by the Seminole Tribe. It has a great mix of electronic slot machines and classic casino table games. Electronic roulette, poker, and blackjack jack games are all available.

Because it combines the old and the new, this casino provides an unparalleled gambling offering. It appeals to a wide range of casino enthusiasts. There are 5,000 slot machines, 46 poker tables, and 110 table games available.

Also fantastic are the food and entertainment options. If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, try Cipresso, Council Oak Steak & Seafood or The Rez Grill. There is, however, something for everyone with a total of 5 eateries and 3 bars.

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is only 14.9 miles from Tampa International Airport, making it ideal for seeing the surrounding area without having to go far. With pet-friendly policies, nightly concerts, and the opportunity to download personalised playlists upon arrival, this resort truly has something for everyone and should be on any gambler’s must-see list.

The Casino Dania Beach

This casino is approximately a ten-minute drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale. It is well-known for its Jai Alai, but it also offers other games. There are a variety of tournaments in which thousands of players compete.

If you prefer classic casino gambling, there are 24 poker tables and 900 slot machines to choose from. The card room is a beautiful glass-enclosed facility that is a joy to play in. Away from the tables and machines, you can make money betting on horses, greyhounds, and harness racing. You are spoiled for choice at this casino.

Aside from gambling, the casino at Stage 954 provides excellent entertainment. You can see world-class performances by comedians and artists. There are also a number of dining options. Consider stopping by The Grill, Luxe Restaurant, or Pizzelato Café for a bite to eat. If you’re looking for some free live music on the weekends, go over to Sunrise Bar Stage.

The loosest slots in Florida are believed to be found at this casino. It’s a great place to start if you’re seeking for chances to try your luck. Even though it lacks the opulence of larger casinos in Florida, you will have a great time.

The Big Easy Casino

The Big Easy was previously known as the Mardi Gras Casino. Before that I t used to be the Hollywood Greyhound Track. It has undergone extensive improvements throughout the years and is now one of the leading premium casinos in Florida.

The Big Easy Casino, located in Hallandale Beach, spans over 70,000 square feet. It has over 1,000 gaming machines and a high-end setting. If you want to smoke as you place your bets, the Dog Pound’s outdoor patio has plenty of seating.

This casino offers 7 Card Stud, Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Omaha Hi/Lo on 30 tables. Despite the fact that it is a high-end casino, it has both high- and low-limit tables. As a result, it is suitable for both experienced and inexperienced players.

This casino offers a wide range of eating alternatives. To satisfy all of your demands, enjoy casual contemporary eating. Everything is under one roof, from breakfast through appetisers, lunch, and supper. There are three fully-stocked bars, as well as cafes and restaurants.

Miccosukee Resort & Gaming

This is the home of South Florida’s original gaming and entertainment, conveniently located in the heart of the Everglades. Regardless of your previous gaming experience, you will have a fantastic time on the gaming floor. This casino has almost 2000 slot machines. Classic and contemporary alternatives are available. You can take advantage of bonuses, prizes, and special effects thanks to modern game advancements.

If you’re looking for something more exclusive, go to the Swanky High Limit Room. Because this is a private space, you are guaranteed to have an exceptional experience. Outside the Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, there are approved smoking spots. The facility, however, is smoke-free. The suites of this casino, which are located on the edge of the magnificent Florida Everglades, are truly remarkable. They’re made to provide maximum comfort and spectacular vistas. In addition to the room amenities, you’ll have access to Wi-Fi, pay-per-view television, and much more. A gym, salon and spa, teen arcade, and club Egret are among the facilities. Also fantastic are the food and entertainment options.

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