Seafood in Flagler Beach is a different experience. Imagine sitting by the ocean, the breeze tangled in your hair, and a plate of crisp, sweet shrimp or fresh grouper set down in front of you. Every bite tastes both familiar and somehow new, like the flavor of the coastline itself. Flagler Beach is more than its panoramic views. Here, seafood isn’t just on the menu—it’s the main event.
After sampling dozens of spots up and down this stretch of sand, I’ve found that each place has its own story and secret touch. Some rely on the old-school beauty of oysters on ice, while others serve innovative takes with local flair. What follows is a tour through Flagler Beach’s best seafood restaurants, each offering something unique. If you’re after the kind of meal that lingers in your memory long after your feet leave the sand, keep reading. The next great plate is just ahead.
1. Flagler Fish Company
Flagler Fish Company sits just steps from the surf, now perched inside the Topaz Hotel. When I dropped in, I could tell right away why locals say this place sets the pace for fresh seafood in town. The vibe is easygoing but focused—think beach-casual with a serious dedication to what ends up on your plate.
The menu is all about daily specials and creative touches. Their blackened grouper sandwich is legendary, both tender and bold, while the shrimp and scallops over creamy grits feel like southern comfort with an edge. Ask what the chefs recommend; their suggestions rarely miss.
What sets Flagler Fish Company apart is the blend of market-fresh choices and inventiveness. With options changing regularly, every visit brings a new reason to return.
2. The Golden Lion Cafe
The Golden Lion Cafe is the kind of spot that turns a beach day into an event. My first taste here came with sand still between my toes and live reggae trailing in from the bar. The energy is pure Flagler—bright, quirky, and always relaxed. The rooftop tables offer one of the best ocean views in town, perfect for people-watching or sunset-gazing between bites.
The menu has plenty of hits, but their English style fish and chips stands out—crisp, golden, and never greasy. I’d also dive into the fresh catch tacos, packed with flavor and the freshness you crave after a day outdoors. For those who want to sample, the seafood tower serves up a grand mix from the raw bar.
What sets The Golden Lion apart isn’t just the food—it’s the festive mix of music, laughter, and the smell of the sea. It’s easy to see why this spot has become a Florida staple.
3. High Tides at Snack Jack
High Tides at Snack Jack feels like it’s been part of the coastline forever. My visits here always start with the unmistakable sound of waves rolling under the deck—a classic “old Florida” setting that never loses its charm. It’s casual, a little bit quirky, and all about ocean views just footsteps from the surf.
The menu keeps things fresh with daily specials, but I keep coming back for their grilled fish sandwiches and the baskets of crispy fried shrimp. Both are simple, generous, and taste like the ocean in the best way. It’s the sort of food you want after a swim or a long walk on the sand.
Snack Jack’s laid-back style is its secret. Whether you’re grabbing lunch in your flip-flops or catching dinner as the sun drops, the vibe here always fits.
4. The Net by George
The Net by George is one of those rare finds that feels like a secret you almost want to keep to yourself. My favorite memory here: a quiet brunch, the ocean peeking through the windows, and a plate of the freshest catch served with local vegetables. This spot leans into simplicity and quality—no over-the-top fuss, just great food done well.
The blackened mahi mahi is a must-try; it’s juicy with just the right kick of spice. Their shrimp basket is another winner if you want something straightforward and satisfying, perfect for a no-nonsense seafood craving after a stroll on the beach.
What truly stands out at The Net by George is the relaxed pace and friendly welcome, making you feel right at home with each visit.
5. Oceanside Beach Bar and Grill
Oceanside Beach Bar and Grill offers one of the broadest views on the strip. I remember sitting out on their huge deck, watching the tide roll in while breakfast turned into lunch—this is a place where time slows down in the right way. Family-run and laid-back, Oceanside invites everyone to unwind and enjoy real hospitality by the sea.
The catch of the day is always a safe bet, grilled simply so the flavor of the fish comes through. The seafood omelet is another favorite, stuffed with fresh shrimp and fish—perfect for a lazy brunch. There’s even a seafood pasta that mixes things up with local twists.
This is the spot for casual, oceanfront dining, with food as impressive as the view. Every meal feels like a mini escape.
6. Funky Pelican
Funky Pelican sits right at the foot of the iconic pier, and the view goes on forever. One breezy morning, I found myself sipping coffee on the patio, spotting dolphins just beyond the breakers. This is the spot for those who want their seafood with a side of sunshine and salty air.
The menu leans creative but keeps comfort at the heart. Their shrimp and grits is rich and full of southern flair, while the fish tacos are an easy favorite—fresh, light, and never too fussy. For something different, the seafood Benedict at brunch brings a coastal spin to a classic dish.
The Funky Pelican mixes lively beach energy with unpretentious food, making it perfect for everyone from sunrise watchers to late-night snackers.
7. The Anchor
The Anchor feels like a charming hideaway just south of the pier, where the ocean view always invites you to linger a bit longer. My first dinner here came with a glowing sunset and a plate that balanced local flavors and comfort. The vibe is welcoming—relaxed but with an eye for detail that matters when it comes to seafood.
The grilled mahi mahi is a standout, cooked just right and paired with seasonal sides that bring out its flavor. Their seared scallops also impress—tender, perfectly caramelized, and tossed with local vegetables. Both dishes shine with freshness that sets them apart in Flagler Beach’s crowded seafood scene.
What keeps people coming back to The Anchor is the combination of friendly service and plates that deliver on every visit. Lunch or dinner, you’ll find something memorable here.
8. Break Awayz
Break Awayz sits right across from the ocean, blending beach vibes with big tastes and an even bigger drink list. My last visit turned into a long afternoon—live music playing, sea breeze drifting through, and the kind of menu that keeps you tempted for “just one more dish.”
Seafood is treated with a modern twist here. The tuna poke bowl is a bright, refreshing pick, loaded with fresh fish and crisp vegetables. Their seared fish tacos are another highlight—full of flavor, easy to share, and perfect after a lazy day in the sun.
Break Awayz stands out for its broad menu and lively atmosphere, making it a gathering spot whether you’re hungry for seafood or catching the game. It’s where everyone feels like a regular, even on the first visit.
9. Crave’s Coastal Kitchen & Cocktails
Crave’s Coastal Kitchen & Cocktails feels like a breath of fresh air, both in style and on the palate. I stopped by for dinner after a sun-soaked afternoon and was struck by the creative menu—unexpected flavor combinations that work perfectly by the sea. There’s a laid-back polish here, with an atmosphere just as inviting as the food.
The seafood linguine shines—tender shrimp meet crisp veggies and a sauce that’s balanced without overwhelming. Their blackened fish wraps also show off top-notch freshness, wrapped up in bright toppings and house sauces. Every plate feels carefully thought out.
Crave’s has a knack for making classics new again, and the ocean view pairs well with just about everything they serve.
10. Tortuga’s Kitchen & Bar
Tortuga’s Kitchen & Bar brings a splash of Caribbean flair right to the heart of Flagler Beach. I wandered in one breezy evening, live music drifting along with the scent of grilled seafood, and found the laid-back, island-inspired vibe is easy to sink into. The energy here is lively without ever feeling rushed—a perfect match for the beach outside.
The conch chowder makes a strong first impression: flavorful, warming, and distinctly Floridian. Their grilled fish sandwich shows off fresh Atlantic catch and the classic “Key West” style comes through in bright toppings and homemade sauces. Try the seafood salads if you want something light but full of flavor.
Tortuga’s stands out for balancing fun, freshness, and a killer ocean view, with every dish paying homage to coastal comfort and creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best seafood restaurant in Flagler Beach?
It depends on what you like. Flagler Fish Company is popular for ultra-fresh options, while The Golden Lion Cafe draws crowds for its lively atmosphere and classic fish & chips. Funky Pelican and Break Awayz are great for ocean views with your meal.
Are there seafood spots with vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes. Many seafood restaurants in Flagler Beach, including High Tides at Snack Jack and The Net by George, offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices to make everyone happy at the table.
Where can I find oceanfront dining with seafood in Flagler Beach?
Several spots have ocean views, but Oceanside Beach Bar and Grill, Funky Pelican, and The Anchor serve seafood just steps from the surf, making for an unbeatable seaside setting.
What seafood dishes should I try in Flagler Beach?
Favorites include blackened grouper sandwiches, shrimp & grits, and fish tacos. Most restaurants also offer daily specials with the catch of the day, so ask what’s fresh.
Are there late-night seafood options in Flagler Beach?
Break Awayz and Crave’s Coastal Kitchen & Cocktails both keep the kitchen open late, so you can enjoy seafood after sunset without rushing.
