Beloved among locals, Native Cafe consistently delivers piping hot, fresh breakfasts capable of getting any morning off to a great start. This regional favorite boasts an esteemed history in Pensacola Beach, where despite constant setbacks related to hurricane and fire, it opened to great fanfare over a decade ago.
The restaurant is currently owned and operated by the Brown family, which has called Pensacola Beach home for an astounding five generations. Given this background, it’s easy to see why local culinary practices are so prominent here. The menu may be packed with many of the classic egg-based dishes you’d expect to find at any breakfast location, but you’ll also spot a few unique options rarely seen elsewhere. Seafood-infused dishes are especially popular, in part due to the consistent freshness of the shrimp, scallops, and fish served here.
Dietary limitations can sometimes make ordering complicated at breakfast establishments, but the Native Cafe offers an extensive menu to satisfy most visitors. Vegans may be limited, but vegetarians and pescatarians should have no trouble finding dishes they love. Gluten-free visitors can take advantage of a specialized version of the restaurant’s tasty griddle cakes.
A variety of beverages are served at Native Cafe, including soda, orange juice, coffee, and tea. Visitors may be most pleased, however, to find several alcoholic drinks on the menu. Feel free to complement your favorite breakfast dish with a bloody Mary or a cranberry mimosa. If you visit during the lunch hour, you’re welcome to order beer or a glass of wine.
Adults may be delighted by the presence of alcohol, but kids will be equally pleased by the Lil’ Natives menu. A small selection of kid-friendly options is available, but most will opt for the adorable bear-shaped pancakes.
A few of our favorite menu items include the following:
The Gulf Coast Seafood Omelet
If you crave seafood, you can’t go wrong with this unique dish, which incorporates several of your favorites in a single omelet. Don’t order this breakfast entree unless you have a huge appetite, as it comes packed with shrimp, scallops, crab, and fish. It also features cheese and remoulade sauce.
Shrimp & Grits
A top option for both breakfast and lunch, these mouthwatering cheese grits come with grilled shrimp and are topped with both green and fried onions.
Stuffed Fresh Toast
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this hearty dish, which features four pieces of French toast stuffed with cream cheese. Toppings include your choice of strawberries or blueberries, as well as powdered sugar, whipped cream, and berry syrup.
Angry Native Burger
Despite the name, you’ll be perfectly cheerful as you chow down on this tasty burger. It comes loaded with jalapeño peppers, sautéed bell peppers, provolone cheese, pico sauce, and chipotle mayo. Several side options are available, including fries, chips, coleslaw, potato salad, and a fruit cup.
Barrier Island Kabobs
Enjoy a taste of island life with these healthy, yet delicious kabobs, which are grilled and served over rice. They come with a delicious side of island sauce. Vegetarians will adore the veggie-only version, but additional kabobs including chicken or shrimp are also available.
Whether you’re craving breakfast classics or local seafood-infused dishes, you’ll have no trouble finding something delicious to enjoy at Pensacola Beach’s Native Cafe.
Insider Tips:
– Set aside plenty of time if you plan on visiting for breakfast during the weekend. During peak hours, it’s far from unheard to wait for nearly an hour before scoring a table.
– If you visit with a small group, consider eating at the counter. This will cut down dramatically on the wait time, but you’ll still enjoy excellent service.
– Take a close look at the art on display. It’s all local — and most of it’s for sale, so you could emerge with both a full stomach and an artistic keepsake.