#9 of 198 Destin Restaurants

Sunset Bay Cafe

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Sunset Bay Cafe: Enjoy Breakfast or Lunch Alongside a Spectacular View
Local Expert's Rating:
4.5 / 5
The Bottom Line:

Stop by Sandestin's Sunset Bay Cafe for a relaxed breakfast or lunch with a view. You'll enjoy the friendly atmosphere nearly as much as you enjoy your hearty meal.

- The FloridaPanhandle.com Local Expert Team

A favorite haunt among tourists and locals alike, the Sunset Bay Cafe offers a relaxing spot ideal for leisurely mornings or afternoons with loved ones. The restaurant is conveniently situated near the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s Linkside Conference Center. 

Classic dishes with flair form the bulk of the Sunset Bay Cafe’s menu, which is meant to celebrate the best of ‘Old Florida’ while also keeping visitors on their toes with innovative recipes. The establishment clearly pulls off this delicate balance, thereby pleasing both picky and adventurous eaters. From eggs benedict to burgers, there’s something for everyone — except, perhaps, vegans, who may find themselves limited to modified salads.

A variety of drinks are available, but visitors are especially impressed by the restaurant’s Bloody Mary. The mimosas are also delicious. Other beverage options include coffee and orange juice. 

There’s plenty to be said in favor of the Sunset Bay Cafe’s menu, but many people visit almost exclusively for the ambiance. The interior setting is certainly pleasant, but you’re missing out on a huge opportunity if you dine inside. If the weather cooperates, you’ll want to make every effort to eat outdoors, where you can enjoy your meal with a spectacular view. 

No matter where you sit, you’ll appreciate the friendly service. If you’re in a hurry, however, you’ll want to dine elsewhere. The atmosphere at this restaurant is decidedly laid back — and at times, this tends to extend to waits for food. Hence the importance of grabbing a pleasant spot outside, where you won’t mind the wait.

A few of our favorite Sunset Bay Cafe menu items include the following:

Fried Green Tomato Benedict
A unique breakfast item that you won’t find just anywhere, this fun take on eggs benedict features perfectly poached eggs with goat cheese, blackened shrimp, hollandaise sauce, and of course, fried green tomatoes. 

Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast
The ultimate sweet treat, this French toast includes fresh strawberries, whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean cream cheese. 

Chicken and Waffles
A clear favorite among regulars, this dish is bound to satisfy. You’ll appreciate the balance of sweet and savory flavors accompanying the fluffy waffles and delicious chicken tenders. 

Sunset Bay Cafe Burger
There’s a lot to love about this certified Angus beef steak burger, which is served on a fresh brioche bun. Your burger will arrive loaded with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, Dijon honey mustard, white American cheese, and garlic aioli. Every good burger comes with fries, and this one is no exception.

Yard Bird
If your idea of the perfect lunch involves a savory chicken sandwich, you’re in luck: the Yard Bird is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Served on a brioche bun, this sandwich includes fried chicken breast, provolone cheese, lettuce, pickles, red onions, and Dijon honey mustard. Enjoy it with a generous serving of sidewinder fries. 

Whether you stop by for a hearty breakfast or a juicy burger, you’ll appreciate the care that goes into every meal at the Sunset Bay Cafe. This combination of wonderful flavors and even better views is not to be missed.

Insider Tips:
– Accessing the restaurant can prove a bit confusing if you aren’t actually staying at the resort. When you arrive, simply let the security guards know that you intend to dine at the Sunset Bay Cafe — they will provide a pass and help you find a place to park.
– The Sunset Bay Cafe is notoriously busy during the weekend. Aim to arrive bright and early at 8 am if you’d like to enjoy a peaceful breakfast. The restaurant may be named after the area’s beautiful sunsets, but if you stop by right away in the morning, you can score a great spot and take in the sunrise over breakfast.