Regatta Bay, nestled on the lush east side of Destin, is best known for its prestigious golf courses and upscale homes—but locals know it’s also a hotspot for food lovers. Whether you’re craving an elegant three-course dinner, artisanal pastries, or a casual bite in the sun, Regatta Bay’s dining scene is brimming with must-try stops. Here’s your ultimate guide to the neighborhood’s standout eateries, bustling cafés, sweet bakeries, and even secret finds off the usual tourist track.
A Taste of Elegance: Standout Restaurants in Regatta Bay
If you’re in the mood to indulge, Regatta Bay won’t disappoint. The heart of the neighborhood, along Regatta Bay Boulevard and Commons Drive East, hosts some of Destin’s most reputable restaurants.
- Louisiana Lagniappe (775 Gulf Shore Drive)
- *Cuisine:* Creole and Seafood
- *Price range:* $$$
- *Why visit:* A longtime favorite for romantic dinners and sunset views, Louisiana Lagniappe brings New Orleans vibes to Regatta Bay. Try the Grouper Imperial, swimming in a rich crabmeat sauce, after starting with decadent hush puppies and a cup of gumbo. Dine on the deck for the full waterfront experience.
- Tuscany Italian Bistro (36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy)
- *Cuisine:* Classic Italian
- *Price range:* $$-$$$
- *Why visit:* This family-run bistro charms with white tablecloths and a cozy atmosphere. The handmade pastas are a standout, especially the Lobster Ravioli and veal piccata. The wine list rivals anything in Destin, and the tiramisu is to die for.
- The Craft Bar (4424 Commons Dr E)
- *Cuisine:* Gastropub/Modern American
- *Price range:* $$-$$$
- *Why visit:* More than just a bar, this local favorite pairs Southern-inspired small plates (don’t miss the truffle fries or Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders) with one of the best selections of craft beer and whiskey in town. Brunch draws a lively crowd, especially for the duck confit hash and inventive cocktails.
Local Legends & Hidden Gems
Regatta Bay’s side streets and shopping plazas hide some of Destin’s most beloved under-the-radar spots.
- Kokee Tea Destin (4447 Commons Dr E Suite K101)
- *Cuisine:* Bubble Tea and Snacks
- *Price range:* $
- *Why visit:* For something sweet and fun, Kokee Tea shakes up bubble teas in bright, Instagram-worthy styles. The brown sugar boba and taro milk tea are local hits. It’s the perfect quick stop before hitting the beach or after a round of golf.
- East Pass Coffee Co. (4421 Commons Dr E #10)
- *Cuisine:* Café, Coffee, Pastries
- *Price range:* $
- *Why visit:* Destin’s caffeine connoisseurs flock here for velvety lattes and cold brews, plus fresh-baked scones and cinnamon rolls that sell out fast. The relaxed patio is ideal for workdays or catching up with friends.
- Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club – Clubhouse Grill (465 Regatta Bay Blvd)
- *Cuisine:* American, Bar & Grill
- *Price range:* $$
- *Why visit:* Open to the public as well as golfers, the Clubhouse Grill serves up hearty breakfasts, gourmet burgers, and daily chef’s specials. On Fridays, locals rave about their fresh-catch fried fish sandwiches and bottomless mimosas during brunch.
Sweet Spots: Bakeries and Dessert Havens
A food tour of Regatta Bay isn’t complete without sampling local sweets—from traditional bakeries to creative dessert cafés.
- Sarah K’s Gourmet (34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy #183)
- *Cuisine:* Take-and-Bake Gourmet, Bakery
- *Price range:* $-$$
- *Why visit:* While famous for her “gourmet-to-go” crab cakes, Sarah K’s also stocks luscious cakes, cookies, and brownies. Locals swear by her key lime pie—a sunshine-filled dessert that screams “Florida.”
- Smallcakes Cupcakery (36150 Emerald Coast Pkwy Suite 108)
- *Cuisine:* Specialty Cupcakes, Ice Cream
- *Price range:* $
- *Why visit:* This adorable shop near The Commons is a celebration of all things sweet. Try the wedding cake cupcake or their signature red velvet. They also whip up small-batch ice cream in rotating flavors.
Food Trucks & Casual Eats
Not all great eats require a sit-down reservation. Food trucks and casual kiosks are part of Regatta Bay’s charm, clustered around Emerald Coast Parkway and shopping centers like Destin Commons.
- Shaka Sushi and Noodle Bar (1108 US-98, next to Whole Foods)
- *Cuisine:* Sushi, Hawaiian-Asian Fusion
- *Price range:* $$
- *Why visit:* As one of Destin’s most exciting casual concepts, Shaka wows with sushi burritos, ramen bowls, and Hawaiian poke. Grab a seat at one of the picnic tables and enjoy the laid-back vibe. Their spicy tuna poke is a cult favorite for good reason.
- Destination Little Donuts Food Truck (rotates locations, often at Destin Commons)
- *Cuisine:* Donuts, Coffee
- *Price range:* $
- *Why visit:* Arrive early for these over-the-top warm donuts in flavors like maple bacon, PB&J, and cookies & cream. The truck schedule is posted online, but you’ll often spot it near major shopping intersections.
Regatta Bay Food Traditions & Neighborhood Favorites
What unites the Regatta Bay food scene? A welcoming spirit, a love of Gulf Coast seafood, and a commitment to quality—many spots are locally owned and source regionally when possible.
Locals look forward to:
- Fresh-catch Fridays: Many restaurants offer rotating specials based on that day’s Gulf catch.
- Sunday Brunches: Especially popular at the Clubhouse Grill, with Gulf shrimp omelets and bottomless coffee.
- Holiday Feasts: Several restaurants, like Tuscany Italian Bistro and Louisiana Lagniappe, host special tasting menus for holidays—reservations recommended!
Want a true “neighborhood insider” experience? Ask servers for their off-menu picks. Many places offer secret specials or local-only desserts—just another reason why Regatta Bay’s food scene shines.
Plan Your Culinary Adventure
Whether you live in Regatta Bay or are just dropping by, this Destin neighborhood rewards adventurous diners. From chef-driven bistros to friendly cafés and the occasional bite from a food truck, Regatta Bay makes any meal memorable. Pro tip: Parking is plentiful around The Commons and along Regatta Bay Boulevard, and most places welcome casual attire—flip-flops included.
Bring your appetite, a few friends, and get ready to explore the best-kept culinary secrets of Destin’s Regatta Bay!