Not surprisingly, fresh seafood from local waters tops the menu at many Fort Walton Beach eateries. Preparation ranges from plain to fancy – battered, fried, and served with sides of hush puppies and coleslaw to broiled and served with lemon-butter sauce, angel hair pasta, and freshly baked bread.
Meat-and-potato lovers will find plenty of choices as well, everything from burgers and fries to prime rib and filet mignon. Ethnic choices include Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Thai cuisine.
Open-air dining is a favorite with visitors and locals alike, with many eateries featuring decks or patios overlooking the water. The atmosphere at most places, even the most upscale, tends to be casual, and some are extra family- friendly, offering special menus and outdoor play areas for the kids.
Discover the delicious side of Fort Walton Beach by choosing from our list of restaurants.
![Crab Island during summer in Destin Florida](https://cdn.beachguide.com/images/newsletter/related-stories/2014125141331_q.jpg)
Crab Island is the hot spot in Destin to anchor a boat, visit with friends, and cavort in the surf on a hot summer's day.
![Dolphin Tank at the Gulfarium in Fort Walton Beach FL](https://cdn.beachguide.com/images/newsletter/related-stories/2015101144035_q.jpg)
Fort Walton Beach is full of culture, history and family fun! See our Top 10 Things to Do and plan an action-packed vacation to this beautiful coastal town.
![Tips to Buying Travel Insurance](https://cdn.beachguide.com/images/newsletter/related-stories/2016107163545_q.jpg)
What would happen to your beach vacation investment in the event of a tropical storm, an illness or some other unforeseen event?