If you desire comfort food in a comfortable setting, you’ll definitely want to hit up Margaritaville. This iconic chain boasts several locations throughout the United States, but the Destin edition is arguably the most scenic. Where better to pay homage to Jimmy Buffett?
When you arrive, you’ll be struck by the size of the restaurant, which is larger than a lot of other Margaritaville locations. Not all levels are open at all times, however, so your choice of seating might not be as extensive as it initially appears.
As you relax with a drink and a delicious meal, you’ll enjoy taking in the natural beauty of Destin Harbor. Set aside some time before or after your visit to check out the famed HarborWalk Village.
The ambiance is great, but for most visitors, the main draw is the food. Portions vary, but you’re not likely to leave hungry. The menu offers a fairly diverse selection of appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts. Many entrees can be described as comfort food with a twist.
Although a few appetizers and sides come without meat, vegetarians and especially vegans will struggle to find satisfying options. However, gluten-free diners are in luck: several menu items can be made completely gluten-free upon request.
With a name like Margaritaville, you’ll probably feel tempted to order a cocktail with your meal. While some visitors adore the mixed drinks served at this location, others feel that the beverages are far too watered down. If you like a sweet drink and aren’t looking to get too crazy, you’ll probably be happy with your cocktail. A variety of non-alcoholic beverages are also available, including soda, lemonade, coffee, and iced tea.
A few of our favorite menu items include the following:
Appetizer Trio
If you live for appetizers, you will love this sampler platter. It includes spinach and artichoke dip, hand-battered chicken tenders, and Caribbean chicken egg rolls. It’s a great option to split with friends before your meal but is also more than filling enough to serve as a meal in and of itself.
Fried Chicken Salad
This salad isn’t the healthiest you’ll find in the Destin area, but it’s delicious enough to be worth the extra calories. Featuring a blend of romaine and iceberg lettuces, it also includes cucumbers, diced tomatoes, croutons, cheese, and, of course, hand-battered chicken tenders. All this is tossed in delicious ranch dressing to form the perfect salad.
Louisiana Cajun Shrimp and Grits
If you’re craving grits, look no further than this Cajun take on a Southern classic. You’ll quickly fall in love with Margaritaville’s cheddar cheese grits, which are topped with a flavorful andouille sausage gravy and sautéed shrimp.
Havana Burger
Step up your burger with pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, lettuce, and pickle planks. A distinctive mustard sauce brings it all together. Like all burgers served at Margaritaville, this satisfying sandwich is served alongside your choice of a mixed green salad or classic French fries. You can also opt for onion rings for a small additional charge.
Coconut Bread Pudding
Save room for dessert — you won’t regret it! This homemade delicacy is sure to satisfy. The unique bread pudding is baked to the perfect golden brown shade and served with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.
The dishes served at Margaritaville are far from groundbreaking, but most visitors can find something to their liking. Together, the food, drinks, and view make for a satisfying experience.
Insider Tips:
-Stop by at the right time, and you just might enjoy the musical stylings of local cover group Three Bean Soup, which typically frequents the restaurant on Saturday nights. Keep an eye on the Destin Margaritaville Facebook page to learn more about the restaurant’s weekly live music and other special events.
-Like many Margaritaville locations, the Destin restaurant has a retail area stocked with distinctive shirts and a variety of other items. Be sure to pick up a keepsake before you leave.