Best Seafood Restaurants in Pensacola (and Near By) for Date Night & Rehearsal Dinner Near Palafox Wharf Waterfront

Whether planning a romantic dinner for two at one of the area’s Best Seafood Restaurants, looking to enjoy a lively date night, or a special gathering with family and friends, the Pensacola area offers many incredible dining experiences. Every occasion finds its ideal setting between breathtaking waterfront scenery and intimate candlelit rooms. We decided to do a little write up on Best Seafood Restaurants Near Me as there was not one written for these special occasions. We did include steak option as well.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

• The most romantic seafood restaurants for couples (steak as well)
• The best date night spots
• The top seafood restaurants for group dining (6-10 people and steak as well)
• In addition to a review of the best venues and restaurants for a rehearsal dinner, this guide also features the distinctive Pensacola Bay Cruises experience—providing a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate on the water.

Let’s dive in!

Best Seafood Restaurants Near Me for Most Romantic Date Night for Couples

Suppose you’re looking for an intimate dining experience with a touch of elegance. If that’s the case, then these romantic restaurants in Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, Orange Beach, Fairhope, and Milton are sure to impress—each offering the perfect setting for a memorable evening, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out together.

1. The Grand Marlin – Pensacola Beach, FL (One of the Best Seafood Restaurants)

• Address: 400 Pensacola Beach Blvd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
• Phone: (850) 677-9153
• Why It’s Romantic: The restaurant truly stands out as a romantic destination because it offers seafood from the ocean, beautiful sunset views, and an elegant yet casual atmosphere. This restaurant is one of the Best Seafood Restaurants, featuring lit tables with an elegant bar that creates an ideal setting for couples to spend romantic evenings.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 8 miles (~15-minute drive – check traffic history before you book)
• Notable Dish: TGM Grouper Piccata​ – The TGM Grouper Piccata​ stands out as a notable dish at this establishment. The restaurant prepares fresh Gulf grouper in a traditional piccata preparation method with lemon-caper butter sauce that brings out the natural fish flavors. Locally obtained grouper lends a light and pure taste to the dish, meanwhile, the addition of the acidic sauce further enhances the flavor by adding depth and richness.

2. Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina – Orange Beach, AL

• Address: 27075 Marina Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
• Phone: (251) 981-7305
• Why It’s Romantic: At Fishers, you can enjoy relaxed dining options set against the backdrop of a waterfront view and an exquisite range of fresh seafood complemented by a diverse selection of wines.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 29 miles (~45-minute drive)
• Notable Dish: Shrimp and Grits ​Wheree – Chef Bill Briand draws on his Louisiana heritage to craft a shrimp and grits dish, infusing it with sourced ingredients from Alabama’s surroundings. A nearby body of water supplies shrimp that complement the stone-ground grit, blending textures and flavors.

3. Angelena’s Ristorante Italiano – Pensacola, FL – One of the Best Seafood Restaurants Near Me

• Address: 101 E Intendencia St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 542-8398
• Why It’s Romantic: The downtown Pensacola restaurant provides an elegant dining experience with handmade pasta and an extensive wine selection.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Notable Dish: Osso Buco—The restaurant serves Osso Buco as its main dish, which consists of braised veal shank served alongside saffron risotto.​

4. George Bistro + Bar – Pensacola, FL (One of the Best Seafood Restaurants)

• Location (one of the Best Seafood Restaurants near me): 6205 N 9th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32504​
• Phone: (850) 912-4655
• Open Table – George Bistro and Bar
• ​georgebistroandbar.com
• Distance from Center City Pensacola: Approximately a 15-minute drive (about 6 miles).
• Why It’s Romantic: George Bistro + Bar provides an elegant setting that attracts customers who want to enjoy romantic meals with their partners, as well as large groups of friends. The restaurant stands out for its contemporary take on Southern cuisine, which features pure ingredients in every dish.
• The restaurant serves handcrafted cocktails, which makes it an excellent venue for both romantic dates and special celebrations. The restaurant draws large crowds on weekends, so it is best to book your table in advance. georgebistroandbar.com
• Notable Dishes: 
  • Pear + Fig Ricotta Spread—The dish consists of whipped lemon ricotta alongside poached pears and white Turkish figs and spiced pumpkin seeds, thyme, and honey, which accompany toasted ciabatta bread.
  • Shrimp + Grits – The dish consists of Parmesan cheese grits topped with blackened shrimp, andouille sausage, and cremini mushrooms.
  • Alfredo Pappardelle—The house-made pappardelle pasta receives a creamy alfredo sauce topping featuring wild mushrooms, white truffle oil, parmesan cheese, and scallions.
  • The weekend brunch at George Bistro + Bar presents two main options between the savory bread pudding eggs Benedict and the Bananas Foster latte. ​

So, are you still looking for a wedding venue for your Pensacola wedding ceremony and/or reception? Check out our venue and services below!

5. Cobalt, The Restaurant – Orange Beach, AL

• Address: 28099 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
• Phone: (251) 923-5300
• Why It’s Perfect for Date Night: The restaurant offers modern seafood cuisine from its waterfront location. The restaurant features both live music performances and fire pits, which enhance its atmosphere.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 26 miles (~40-minute drive)
• Notable Dish: Firecracker Shrimp​ -The appetizer consists of Gulf shrimp that receives a light frying process before being tossed in spicy remoulade sauce. The spicy sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, which explains its widespread popularity among customers.

6. Jackson’s – Pensacola, FL

• Address: 400 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 469-9898
• Why It’s Perfect for Date Night: A traditional steakhouse with an elegant, intimate atmosphere, ideal for special occasions.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Notable Dish: Prime Rib Special ​Jackson’s Steakhouse – 
• This special is offered every Tuesday evening and includes a slow-roasted, herb-and-spice-rubbed 16-ounce boneless prime rib of beef served with a steakhouse potato. The careful preparation and quality of the beef result in a tender and flavorful dining experience. ​Jackson’s Steakhouse

7. JACO’S Bayfront Bar & Grille – Pensacola, FL (One of the Best Seafood Restaurants)

• Address: 997 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502 (One of the Best Seafood Restaurants)
• Phone: (850) 432-JACO (5226)
• Why It’s Perfect for Date Night: You can’t beat being on the water just down the street from Palafox Wharf Waterfront Wedding Venue enjoying dinner with the water view, marina, and sometimes fireworks. This is another example of one of Pensacola’s Best Seafood Restaurants.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Notable Dishes: 
  • ​Blackened Mahi Reuben: A popular sandwich. 
  • Mahi Tacos: The seafood taco option features mahi as its main ingredient.
  • Calamari Trio: The Calamari Trio is one of the most frequently ordered appetizers, which comes with three different sauces.
  • Crab Cake Salad: The Crab Cake Salad consists of two jumbo lump crab cakes alongside corn, black beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, roasted red peppers, sweet Thai chili dressing, and mango salsa. 
  • Salmon Burger: The Salmon Burger represents one of the most popular burger choices available.
• Other notable dishes: Piping hot and crisp fries, buffalo flatbread, redfish and grits, chicken piccata, bacon jam burger, fish tacos, Market Meatloaf.

8. Union Public House – Pensacola, FL

• Address: 36 E Garden St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 607-6320
• Why It’s Perfect for Date Night: The Union Public House is a Crafty, Southern Pub located in downtown Pensacola, offering a casual atmosphere and a high-quality food and drink menu.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Notable Dish: ​Review from a customer: The atmosphere is very comfortable, almost casual, and we like that. Shelli had a drink specialty—Peach Mint Fizz—& loved it. I had a good vodka martini; Reyka is the well here! I had the Black Garlic Ribeye, 20 oz. OUTSTANDING. Shelli had Grouper Meunière, also a big hit. Pork rinds are tasty, too.

9. Restaurant Iron – Pensacola, FL

10. McGuire’s Irish Pub

• Address: 600 E Gregory St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 433-6789
• Why It’s Perfect for Date Night: A popular, busy restaurant. You can almost guarantee that you will leave with a full belly,  a couple of dollars less in your pocket (they have more than one million signed dollar bills hanging from the ceilings and walls), and Irish folk songs stuck in your head. Be prepared to wait for a table.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: About 1.5 miles from center city Pensacola – walkable for some couples
• Notable Dishes: Sheppard’s Pie, Giant Sandwiches ​

11. Pearl & Horn – Pensacola, FL (One of the Best Seafood Restaurants)

• Address: 1504 W Intendencia St, Pensacola, Fl 32502 (One of the Best Seafood Restaurants)
• Phone: (850) 332-5108 
• Why It’s Perfect for Date Night:  Pearl & Horn in Pensacola provides an upscale dining experience with its dual concept design (nautical Pearl side and rustic Horn side), a diverse menu of land and sea dishes, and a lively, imaginative atmosphere, making it a great choice for a memorable date night.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Notable Dishes: ​Fried Red Snapper Collar, Tuna Carpaccio, and Wagyu Smash Burger, along with smaller plates and entrees.

12. The Gulf – Orange Beach, AL

• Address: 27500 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
• Phone: (251) 424-1800
• Why It’s Perfect for Date Night: A trendy outdoor restaurant made of repurposed shipping containers, offering a laid-back yet romantic vibe.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 27 miles (~40-minute drive)
• Notable Dish:  Grouper Sandwich​ Time to Eat – The grouper sandwich features a brioche bun topped with fried grouper that is lightly breaded and served with lettuce and tomato, while lemon dill sauce brings out the fish’s natural taste. The restaurant serves fresh grouper from local sources to provide an exceptional dining experience. ​

Best Seafood Restaurants for Groups (6-10 People including Steak)

Looking to spend an evening with friends or host a family dinner? These restaurants are perfect for bigger groups and provide a great, welcoming space.

1. Flora-Bama’s Ole River Grill – Perdido Key, FL

• Address: 17400 Perdido Key Dr, Perdido Key, FL 32507
• Phone: (850) 483-6262
• Why It’s Great for Groups: The restaurant features a relaxed atmosphere along with extensive seafood options and drink selection, which makes it an ideal location for both friends and family gatherings.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 23 miles (~35-minute drive)
• Notable Dish: Loaded Tots ​Ole River Grill – Crispy tater tots are smothered in creamy cheese sauce, topped with house-smoked pulled pork, pico de gallo, and a tangy BBQ sauce drizzle. The grill presents its dedication to Southern comfort food through this substantial appetizer that features creamy cheese sauce and house-smoked pulled pork and pico de Gallo, and tangy BBQ sauce drizzle.​

2. The District – Pensacola, FL

• Address: 123 E Government St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 332-5224
• Why It’s Great for Groups:  The restaurant features private dining rooms, which make it perfect for small group events. 
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 0 miles (Walkable)
• Notable Dish: Tomahawk Ribeye ​Tripadvisor – This impressive cut of steak is known for its rich marbling and flavor. When paired with sides like lobster mac and cheese, it offers a luxurious dining experience that highlights the restaurant’s emphasis on quality meats and seafood. ​

3. Villagio Grille – Orange Beach, AL

• Address: 4790 Main St, Orange Beach, AL 36561
• Phone: (251) 224-6510
• Why It’s Great for Groups:  The Wharf (Alabama) hosts this Italian-inspired restaurant, which offers an ideal setting for group dining.
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 28 miles (~45-minute drive)
• Notable Dish: Shrimp Sacchetti​ – The dish includes pasta that contains truffle-infused ricotta and Gulf shrimp while being drizzled with a light chardonnay cream sauce. The truffle flavor combines with fresh seafood and delicate pasta to create a balanced and luxurious taste experience. ​Wheree

Best Restaurants & Venues for Rehearsal Dinners

Planning a rehearsal dinner in Pensacola? Whether you prefer a waterfront setting, a historic venue, or a lively restaurant, these locations provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.

1. Palafox Wharf Venue (One of the Best Venues for Rehearsal Dinner)

• Address: 617 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 748-5102
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Why It’s Ideal:  The historic waterfront venue provides Pensacola Bay views and private indoor and outdoor spaces and elegant ambiance for a personalized and intimate rehearsal dinner. Perfect with Chef Bob’s tasty cuisine.

2. Pensacola Bay Cruises (Private Charter)

• Address: 750 Commendencia St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 466-3379
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Why It’s Unique: Experience a private cruise on the water to host your rehearsal dinner while enjoying the stunning views of Pensacola Bay during sunset.

3. Jackson’s Steakhouse (One of Best Seafood Restaurants)

• Address: 400 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
• Phone: (850) 469-9898
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: Walkable
• Why It’s Ideal:  An elegant upscale venue with private dining rooms ideal for formal events.

4. The Grand Marlin (One of Best Seafood Restaurants)

• Address: 400 Pensacola Beach Blvd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
• Phone: (850) 677-9153
• Distance from Downtown Pensacola: 15 minute drive in light traffic (Check traffic history before booking for your date)
• Why It’s Ideal:The private event space combined with seafood options and waterfront views for rehearsal dinners.

Plan Your Perfect Night Out in Pensacola

Pensacola and surrounding areas offer a wide range of exceptional dining venues that include romantic restaurants for couples and date nights as well as dining spaces for groups and rehearsal dinners. The perfect dining location exists to match any occasion you want to celebrate, whether you choose to honor love, friendship, or family.

Looking for the ultimate waterfront wedding venue? Explore Palafox Wharf Waterfront and make your special day truly unforgettable!

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Thank You for Stopping by our Blog about Best Seafood Restaurants in Pensacola (and Near By) for Date Night & Rehearsal Dinner Near Palafox Wharf Waterfront

For friends and family across the nation, we encourage you to consider recommending the wedding venues listed below. These are locally owned wedding venues all over the United States, perfect for hosting unforgettable celebrations. 

Locally owned wedding venues often provide a superior wedding venue experience, thanks to their strong ties to the community, low staff turnover, and commitment to supporting the local economy. Once again, thank you for reading our blog about the Best Seafood Restaurants in Pensacola (and nearby) for Date Night & Rehearsal Dinners near Palafox Wharf Waterfront ~

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