Unearth The Voyage
Florida’s coastline stretches for miles, bringing incredible seafood straight from the ocean to your plate. From hidden fish camps to historic waterfront spots, the state offers dining experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you crave fried grouper, fresh oysters, or a classic shrimp basket, these restaurants deliver authentic coastal flavor with every bite. Get ready to discover where locals go when they want the freshest catch and the most memorable views.
Hogfish Bar & Grill — Stock Island (Keys)
Tucked away under a thatched roof on Stock Island, this open-air eatery specializes in hogfish, a sweet and flaky local catch. The star of the menu is “The Killer Hogfish Sandwich,” loaded with mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
The vibe here is island casual: flip flops welcome, fishing tales abundant, and the breeze helps every bite taste better. Locals love it for authenticity and simplicity, not fancy plating or long wine lists.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by sun-soaked travelers and weathered fishermen swapping stories. The restaurant captures the heart of Keys culture—relaxed, welcoming, and always fresh from the water.
JB’s Fish Camp — New Smyrna Beach
JB’s Fish Camp invites you to eat right where the land meets water. With outdoor seating beside the lagoon, diners enjoy steamed shrimp, fresh fish sandwiches, and views of boats drifting by.
The rustic sign and weather-beaten structure hint at a place focused on seafood, not trends. Locals cite the sweet-fresh shrimp and relaxed “fish camp” feel as why they keep returning week after week.
There’s something magical about eating seafood so close to where it was caught. The casual atmosphere lets you unwind completely, whether you’re with family or just stopping by after a day at the beach.
The Fish House — Key Largo
In the heart of the Florida Keys, The Fish House has been serving up fresh-caught grouper, snapper, and seafood platters for over 30 years. The menu focuses on the catch of the day with minimal fuss.
Locals say part of the appeal is choosing seasonal fresh fish while still enjoying the laid-back Keys ambiance. It’s the kind of stop where the bar stool, waterfront view, and friendly service feel as important as what’s on your plate.
You won’t find complicated sauces or over-the-top presentations here. Instead, you get honest seafood prepared well, with a side of island hospitality that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
Star Fish Company Market & Restaurant — Cortez
Located in the historic fishing village of Cortez, Star Fish Company serves seafood so fresh it likely swam this morning. The signature dish here is the lightly fried grouper sandwich served with hush puppies and slaw.
Locals say the no-frills, white-wooden building and paper-lined baskets haven’t changed in decades. Harbor-side tables bring a view of working boats and pelicans, setting aside the fancy interior so you can focus on the flavor.
This is a genuine piece of Florida’s coastal heritage, where the catch comes straight from local fishermen. If you want to taste what real Florida fishing culture is all about, this spot delivers without pretense or gimmicks.
O’Steen’s Restaurant — St. Augustine
A Florida-coast tradition renowned for its fried shrimp and grouper sandwiches, O’Steen’s pairs seafood with historic charm. Outdoor tables overlook boat traffic while you wait for your basket of fried goodness.
Local reviews highlight the crisp coating, perfect seasoning, and the consistent flavor that locals say hasn’t changed over the years. This is a true taste of “Florida by the water,” where generations have come for the same reliable deliciousness.
There’s no need for trendy twists when the original recipe works this well. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the experience feels timeless and comforting every single visit.
Seaworthy — Tampa
In downtown Tampa, Seaworthy brings a slightly upscale edge to fresh seafood with a raw bar, seasonal plates, and high-quality sourcing. While modern, locals still go for dishes like grilled octopus or the seafood tower featuring local fish, clams, and shrimp.
Even in a bustling city setting, the emphasis remains on freshness and coastal-flavor integrity. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring you always get what’s best from the Gulf.
This spot proves you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy top-tier seafood. It’s perfect for a date night or special occasion where quality and atmosphere both matter.
The Sandbar Seafood & Spirits — Anna Maria Island
This beachfront restaurant pairs Gulf-of-Mexico views with fresh grouper, snapper, shrimp, and raw oysters. Whether you’re dining with sand underfoot or reclining on the deck for sunset, the combination of view and seafood makes it memorable.
The menu emphasizes “fresh catch of the day,” and locals say the vibe—and flavor—always delivers. There’s something about eating seafood while watching the waves that makes everything taste better.
You can arrive by boat, bike, or car, and the welcoming atmosphere stays the same. It’s the kind of place where vacation memories are made, one delicious bite at a time.
The Oyster Bar — St. Petersburg
Known for its raw oysters, clams, and fried shrimp served alongside bay views, The Oyster Bar in St. Petersburg offers casual seafood excellence. The menu features fresh Gulf and East Coast oysters plus generous shellfish platters.
Locals highlight the waterfront seating and the fact that they return again and again for reliably fresh seafood. It’s a straightforward spot where the quality speaks for itself without needing flashy decorations or complicated menus.
Whether you’re an oyster lover or just curious, this is the place to start your shellfish adventure. The friendly staff will guide you through the options and help you discover your new favorite variety.
Cap’s Place — Lighthouse Point
Cap’s Place is a true coastal gem: a restaurant built nearly a century ago, accessible by boat, and still operating over the Intracoastal Waterway. It began as a speakeasy and seafood club in the late 1920s.
Today it continues with fresh fish, crabs, and a menu rooted in local maritime culture. Dining here means fresh catch, waterfront seating, and a sense of history that few places can match.
Locals know that the setting and the seafood make it unique. The boat ride over adds a sense of adventure, and once you’re there, you feel like you’ve stepped back into old Florida.
