No visit to the Florida Panhandle is complete without sampling the region’s amazing seafood. If you’re looking for a restaurant that showcases the Gulf Coast’s plentiful bounty without costing an arm and leg, look no further than Scooter’s Fish House in Navarre, Florida near Pensacola. It may be small in size, but this dine-in and take-out quick service “Gulf to table” restaurant are huge when it comes to offering up the freshest and most affordable seafood around.
Scooter’s Fish House is perfect for the whole family for several reasons. For starters, there’s its casual atmosphere and menu. There’s nothing fussy, frilly or fancy here: Just a welcoming vibe and outstanding local food made from the owner’s family recipes.
And then there’s the fact that all of the seafood on the menu comes straight off the boats in Destin and its surrounding areas. In other words, when Scooter’s says the food is fresh, it means it. Plus, all of the entrees, sauces and sides are scratch-made with no MSG or preservatives.
Speed is also a hallmark of Scooter’s. If you’re dining with inpatient little ones, an average order time of between 10 and 12 minutes offers yet another incentive to stop into Scooter’s. Of course, if you don’t feel like dining in, the option to take-out is an appealing alternative.
Lastly, at a time when taking the whole family out for a seafood lunch or dinner can be a budget-breaking enterprise, Scooter’s is an appealing alternative thanks to its reasonable prices.
While everything on Scooter’s menu is delicious, a few of our favorites included the following:
Gumbo
Come hungry and plan to start your meal off with this flavorful and filling Scooter’s specialty. Made with fresh fish, shrimp and whatever else the chef tosses into this savory stew, it’s likely to be the best gumbo you’ll ever have — by a landslide, no less.
The Shrimp Dinner Plate
When you’re visiting the Florida Panhandle, shrimp is a must-do. Available with either grilled or fried succulent shrimp, this massive meal includes hush puppies and two sides.
Fried Okra
Whether you’ve never had fried okra or you’re a lifelong fan, you won’t want to miss Scooter’s tasty take on a Southern classic.
The Samwich
One of Scooter’s most unique and popular menu items, this decadent entree — named for the owner’s father and the inspiration for the restaurant — includes your choice of fish with tartar sauce and coleslaw on a sesame bun.
Key Lime Pie
This may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of seafood restaurants, but this sweet and slightly tangy treat is the perfect way to cap off a meal at Scooter’s.
Insider Tips:
– If you’re not sure what to order, Scooter’s friendly and knowledgeable staff will happily answer questions or make recommendations.
– Caught something of your own on a fishing excursion in the Gulf? Bring it along and they’ll cook it up for you. (Expect to be heartily congratulated for your efforts.)
– Long lines are always a possibility at this popular place. However, the Scooter’s team takes pride in getting everyone served and satisfied as quickly as possible