Whether traveling for business, vacationing with family, or road tripping with friends, there’s no better way to connect with a new place than by indulging in local fare.

Much of our character is rooted in the cuisine and spirits native to the area –– along with the people who operate and frequent these establishments. Pensacola Beach serves up some of the freshest seafood and most breathtaking views around, yet there’s much more to our culinary roots to discover.

Legendary

Joe Patti’s

When Giuseppe “Joe” Patti began selling seafood out of the backdoor of his home in the summer of 1931, Pensacola was a fishing capital along the Gulf Coast of the United States, attracting thousands of immigrants from across the world to fish in the largely untapped waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Like many that had just arrived in Pensacola during the early years of the 20th century, Patti was an eager new resident ready to build his love of fishing into the American dream.

Our barrier island boasts some of the most authentic and character-filled watering holes that you’ll find anywhere. Wherever you venture, the island’s dominant vibe is always casual. It’s come as you are and just enjoy. We’ve got historic dive bars whose walls and barflies have weathered countless storms, chic boardwalk dance nightclubs, and even an emerging food truck scene. Many beachside bars have spacious patios with salty sea air wafting through.