#65 of 160 Panama City Beach Restaurants

Gulf Coast Burgers

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Gulf Coast Burgers: Serving the Most Inventive Burgers And Shakes in Panama City Beach
Local Expert's Rating:
4 / 5
The Bottom Line:

The simple act of eating a burger can be downright exciting at Panama City Beach's Gulf Coast Burgers, where you'll encounter truly inventive recipes. Stop in for the burgers and stay for the shakes, which are packed with goodies.

- The FloridaPanhandle.com Local Expert Team

Burgers can be more than a fast-food staple, as you’ll quickly realize while visiting Gulf Coast Burgers in Panama City Beach. Boasting a variety of inventive recipes, this unique restaurant proves the versatility of an all-American favorite. Its signature burgers are especially memorable, with each reflecting culinary traditions from a specific state. Build-your-own burgers are also available, as are custom sandwiches that can include everything from turkey to bison. The sheer variety of ingredients makes these customizable sandwiches way more interesting than your typical build-your-own fare. 

Despite its name, Gulf Coast Burgers is arguably even better known for its giant shakes. Some visitors argue that these are far better than the burgers — and many visit exclusively for sweet treats. Whether you enjoy your shake after a meal or are purely interested in sugary excellence, you’ll definitely want to invest in one of these legendary desserts. 

Innovative burgers and shakes may be this restaurant’s main attractions, but the appeal doesn’t end there. Beyond delicious and daring meals, this restaurant provides a lively atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a party. A full bar and an abundance of TVs makes it an excellent destination on game day. Otherwise, head out to the patio to keep yourself entertained with giant games as you await your meal. Don’t forget to order a cold beer — or better yet, a spiked shake.

A few of our favorite menu items include the following:

Florida Burger
One of several mouthwatering signature recipes, this burger is a top option for anybody visiting from out of state. Locals will also love it, however, as it comes packed with tasty ingredients: American cheese, spring mix, bacon, avocado, and egg. Served on a brioche bun, this delightful burger features an orange topper to reflect its Sunshine State moniker. Like all signature burgers, it comes with your choice of side. Favorites include mac n cheese, fries, and tater tots. 

Alabama Burger
If you’re in the mood for a unique burger, you can’t go wrong with this top option, which includes pimento cheese, fried green tomato, and slaw. A delectable white sauce adds plenty of flavor, while a chicken wing topper allows the burger to serve as both appetizer and entree. 

Seafood Platter
You know you’re in Panama City Beach when you visit an acclaimed burger joint…and order seafood. Believe it or not, this huge platter deserves its spot on the otherwise adventurous Gulf Coast Burgers menu — even if it looks a lot like the seafood dishes you’ll see at dozens of other Emerald Coast restaurants. You’ll have no regrets as you chow down on this extremely filling meal, which comes with fried grouper, clam strips, and shrimp. Additionally, you’ll receive three tasty sides: fries, hush puppies, and slaw. 

Sugar Rush
This sweet treat has clearly earned its name, as you’ll quickly discover while savoring your well-deserved dessert. Served in a jar, this tasty vanilla shake comes loaded with Airheads Xtremes, Nerds Ropes, Fruity Pebbles, cotton candy, cherries, and whipped cream. A huge sucker is added for visual effect. Plan ahead, because this dessert will assuredly be followed by a swift sugar rush — and an eventual crash. 

If you’re famished and adventurous, you can’t go wrong with Gulf Coast Burgers. Your burger or shake might not look quite like anything you’ve ever ordered, but you’ll enjoy every bite.

Insider Tips:
– If you order a shake after your meal, plan to split it with a friend. The meals are massive, leaving visitors with even impressive appetites to struggle when downing the restaurant’s giant shakes. If you’re determined to enjoy your own shake, consider setting aside half your meal to take home so you can focus on dessert.
– The servers don’t always follow through on asking visitors how they want their burgers done. When in doubt, state your preferences outright while ordering.