#113 of 161 Panama City Beach Restaurants

Surfing Deer

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Surfing Deer -- Upscale Seafood on the Beach
Local Expert's Rating:
4 / 5
The Bottom Line:

Surfing Deer seems to do everything well in upscale style, from the valet service at the door to the incomparable Gulf-inspired dishes, elegantly plated and served by attentive professionals. Also a popular wedding reception venue, Surfing Deer occupies a quiet, elegant corner of the Gulf Coast, and it's a favorite date night/special occasion spot among locals. 

- The FloridaPanhandle.com Local Expert Team

Located on the beach with breathtaking views of the Gulf, Surfing Deer is one of those spots you’ll want to keep returning to for date nights and special occasions. A gorgeous interior complements the sophisticated flavors and beautifully-plated dishes served up in style. Expect Gulf Americana cuisine with a few world cuisine items mixed into the menu offerings. Complimentary valet parking, attentive, professional wait servers, and tasteful music and interior decor set the tone for an unforgettable dinner. 

Surfing Deer offers private rooms for wedding receptions and other events. The chefs are able to quickly adapt menu items to accommodate dietary restrictions, and outdoor seating offers stunning ocean views with cool Gulf breezes in the evening. 

Some menu favorites include: 

Sweet and Spicy Snapper 
A favorite among all who try it, the sweet and spicy snapper showcases seeded red snapper, served with jasmine rice, sugar snap peas, melon, sweet peppers, cashews, and miso lemongrass coulis. The balance of flavors in this dish is unmistakably refreshing. 

Heritage Chicken Confit 
Half of a roasted bird served with dijon cream and bacon has never tasted better. The chicken is beautifully roasted, juicy and flavorful, and effortlessly complemented by the dijon cream sauce and crispy bacon. 

Caramelized Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Always save room for dessert at Surfing Deer. Although you’ll find an array of tempting options on the menu, our favorite is the caramelized banana pudding cheesecake, which features a vanilla wafer crumb crust, a silky-smooth banana pudding/cheesecake filling, and a caramel drizzle on top. 

Surfing Deer is located just across the street from the beach in Seagrove Beach, Florida, on a cozy curve of the coastline between Miramar Beach and Rosemary Beach. It’s a pleasant, scenic drive from PCB or Destin, and well worth the trip if you’re in search of an upscale, sophisticated dinner. 

Insider Tip:
– If you let them know you are celebrating, they will likely include a complimentary dessert for the occasion.