The Ultimate Food Guide: Perdido Key, Florida
Food Guide:
Perdido Key, Florida
Almost every summer, my family travels to our little slice of happiness, Perdido Key, Florida. Situated just a few miles across the Florida line from Orange Beach, Alabama, this charming little beach town checks all the boxes. If you’re like me and prefer to stay in less crowded areas, this destination is perfection. It’s close enough to all the area attractions but secluded enough to truly enjoy your time on the beach without being shoulder-to-shoulder in the crowd.
One of my favorite family traditions is picking our favorite restaurants, writing their names on paper, putting them in a hat, and drawing where to eat every night. Over the years, this game has allowed us to dine in almost every establishment in the surrounding areas. In this post, I’ll tell you all about the best food Perdido Key, in particular, has to offer!
1: Fisherman’s Corner
This place takes the top spot on my list for a big reason and is the one restaurant on my list that I will accept no negations on because it is that dang good. Unlike many other things in life, Fisherman’s Corner never lets me down. Summer after summer, this is the one restaurant that always makes the list of places my family goes to dine. Their quaint little restaurant is tucked under the Theo Baars bridge and is jam-packed with character and the kindest staff on this side of the Mississippi.
Their classic Seafood Platter showcases the best seafood on the island if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck. Overflowing with fish, shrimp, and oysters and topped with a soft-shell crab, you’ll leave with your heart (& belly) full. Shrimp & Grits is another excellent choice, served in a unique way with a Creole flair. Gouda grits are rolled into a ball, coated in panko, fried, and then served atop a generous serving of shrimp covered in a creamy andouille sauce. If seafood isn’t your thing, their Blackened Chicken Penne Pasta is (dare I say) one of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. Even my pasta-hating husband loved it.
2: The Point
Another hidden gem you’ll miss if you don’t know where to look is The Point. In operation for over 60 years, this restaurant will always be suggested when you ask the locals where to go. With both indoor and outdoor dining and live music, this place has something for everyone.
The Seafood Platter serves up the classics and adds their juicy scallops; which are to die for. The dish that made them famous is the Point Mullet Sandwich. Fresh, deep-fried mullet fish on Texas Toast, what’s not to love?
3: Oyster Bar Restaurant and Marina
This place is perfect if you’re looking for a restaurant on the water. Enjoy a cocktail (or two) as you watch the boats come in for the night. As the name implies, the oysters are a must-try. Blackened is my personal favorite, but the Rockefeller is also perfection. Try one of the many market fish selections and ask them to top it with their Crawfish Orleans sauce.
After dinner, it’s time for my personal favorite part. Head out to the balcony over the marina and relax with a glass of wine.
4: Lillian’s Pizza
My mouth starts watering every time I think about Lillian’s Pizza. The famous dough recipe is top secret, and Lillian makes it fresh every morning. This humble pizza place has been recognized in countless publications and won several awards, which is why it’s ranked high on this list among more traditional restaurants. You can dine in the restaurant, or my personal favorite way, in your condo, on the balcony, while watching the waves come in.
Lillian’s allows you to create your own pizza or choose from a variety of specialty pizzas, such as the Hot Hawaiian featuring chicken, pineapple, bacon bits, jalapeños, and barbecue sauce. If pizza isn’t your thing, they offer a large selection of salads, pasta, and sandwiches that are sure to please. The classic pepperoni pizza is my favorite, and having the leftovers for breakfast might be even better!
5:The Jellyfish
The next stop on the list is the premier sushi restaurant in Perdido. With an impressive cocktail menu and the best martinis on the island, you’ll find one (or three) that suit your fancy. The sushi here is impeccable and made with the freshest selection of seafood.
The suggested wine pairings on the menu also add a nice touch. If you want to stay on the traditional route, their seafood menu rivals the other restaurants on this list. Although still kid-friendly, The Jellyfish is the best for date night!
6: Flora-Bama Yacht Club
If you’re looking for the most laid-back restaurant on the island, this is the place for you. Flora-Bama is best known for its wild nightlife, but if you want to catch the laid-back island vibes, you have to visit their Yacht Club. Come by boat or car, and take your shoes off to fully enjoy the sand in your toes while you have lunch.
This open-air restaurant serves up some serious grub. With an impressive selection of oysters (pro-tip, get the sampler) and appetizers, you may not make it to the main course. If you do, they have an array of surf and plenty of turf. After lunch, walk out to their private beach and rent some jet skis for a quick ride around the island.
7: The Crab Trap
If you’re looking for the most laid-back restaurant on the island, this is the place for you. Flora-Bama is best known for its wild nightlife, but if you want to catch the laid-back island vibes, you have to visit their Yacht Club. Come by boat or car, and take your shoes off to fully enjoy the sand in your toes while you have lunch.
This open-air restaurant serves up some serious grub. With an impressive selection of oysters (pro-tip, get the sampler) and appetizers, you may not make it to the main course. If you do, they have an array of surf and plenty of turf. After lunch, walk out to their private beach and rent some jet skis for a quick ride around the island.
There are so many worthy establishments in Perdido Key; these are just a few of my personal favorites. This little slice of paradise has so much to offer, and I hope you are able to visit at least once in your life. Drop me a message if I missed any of your favorites; I love trying new places! Please let me know if you try any of these restaurants when you go, and as always, thanks for being here!
