If you’re on the hunt for a quick meal with a view, you’ll adore the hidden gem known as Finns Island Style Grub. Named for the founder’s child, Finns Island Style Grub opened in 2009 — just a month after its namesake’s birth. Today, the casual restaurant boasts two locations: the original spot in Panama City Beach and a newer location in nearby St. Andrews.
The Panama City Beach location remains as charming as ever. No, it’s not fancy, but what you give up in luxury you’ll make up for with reasonable prices, quick food prep, and a friendly experience. Once you receive your order, you’re free to enjoy it at one of the available picnic tables as you take in the view and the chill vibes.
Finns Island Style Grub primarily focuses on seafood-inspired versions of tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and nachos. The fish used in these recipes are caught fresh and served the same day they are caught.
Entrees are also available with chicken, carnitas, or no meat at all. A small children’s menu includes cheese quesadillas, cheese nachos, and mini burritos. If there’s one downside, it’s that chips are served in a bag; this is not the place to visit if you insist on warm, house-made chips.
Don’t hesitate to grab a cold beer to accompany your tacos or quesadilla. Finns Island Style Grub offers a great selection from local breweries such as Tampa Bay-based Big Storm Brewing Company and Tallahassee-based Proof Brewing Company. Not in the mood for beer? You’ll also find coffee, espresso, kombucha, soda, and smoothies.
A few of our favorite menu items include the following:
Tuna Dip
Finns Island Style Grub offers affordable orders of chips and salsa or guacamole to munch on as you wait for your order, but the tuna dip is absolutely worth the minor splurge.
Veggie Tacos
One of several available vegetarian dishes, this meal is sure to please. Each taco includes black beans, a spring mix, sweet potatoes, cabbage, pico de gallo, and a delectable white sauce. Like all taco orders at Finns Island Style Grub, this entree comes with two tacos. Cheese can be added for a small additional charge.
Ahi Tuna Tacos
Another taco order worth trying, this version includes sesame-seared tuna, a spring mix, cilantro, pico de gallo, sriracha, and honey wasabi. Be warned: these spicy tacos are not for the faint of heart!
Shrimp Quesadilla
One of several available quesadillas that the Finns Island Style Grub menu refers to as ‘epic,’ the shrimp version is unquestionably satisfying. It’s available as a half or a whole order — but if you’re at all hungry, you’ll want the full version. A variety of add-ons are available, including pineapple, grilled peppers, cilantro, or pico de gallo.
Island Style Nachos
These nachos are packed with goodness. You’ll find each nacho chip loaded with black beans, black olives, jalapenos, pineapple, and pico de gallo. Additionally, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole are served on the side.
With so many excellent items included on the menu and made fresh to order, you’ll likely feel compelled to return on multiple occasions to sample Finns Island Style Grub’s other offerings. No matter what you order, you’ll be pleased by the fresh ingredients and exceptional preparation.
Insider Tips:
-Arrive early if at all possible, as both the seating and the parking are heavily limited. If you struggle to find a place to sit, you can take your order to-go.
-Keep an eye on the Finns Island Style Grub Facebook page, where you’ll find regular updates regarding local music. While the atmosphere is always pleasant, your meal will be that much more enjoyable if you’re serenaded by a local musician.