Anybody you talk to will tell you to eat at Captain Anderson’s in Panama City Beach. Established in 1958 and currently owned by the Patronis brothers, they have a reputation for being the best in the area. And you know what? They are!
The wait times are legendary. The restaurant fills up when they open at 4:30 for the diners to watch the fishing boats unload their catch. After 6:00, there is a wait. We enjoyed dinner at this restaurant twice. Once we arrived at 5:30 and had a seat near the back of the restaurant with no view. When we went the second time, we got there at 4:30 and got a beautiful seat right by the windows by the fishing boats. You definitely must get there early. Also note that they are not open for lunch and they are closed on Sundays.
The food is outstanding. The meal begins with homemade breads followed by their famous Greek salad. The wine list is extensive, including both inexpensive well-rounded wines and some more pricey special selections. For the main course, they offer charcoal broiled fresh fish, including a delicious new fish I tried called scamp. They also have excellent fried gulf shrimp, grouper, snapper and steaks with a mushroom gravy on the side (my kids devoured theirs on both visits). The desserts were very tempting but we were too full to try any. The kids were given coupons for free cookies in the market. The fish, meat, bakery items and gifts were tempting, unique, and reasonably priced.
The service at this restaurant is exceptional. On my first visit, the waitress was wonderful with my kids. Not only did she pay attention to them, but she cut up my son’s steak when it arrived. I love it when the server truly shows she wants you to enjoy your meal. She made recommendations on the menu as well (I tried her suggestion and it was incredible!) The second server was just as nice and attentive. In addition, the Capt. in the market paid extra attention to my family and even posed for a photo. He informed us he is publishing a book this summer and even gave us information about it.
Everyone and everything about this restaurant is wonderful. I can’t recommend it more highly. You must eat here. You will not be disappointed.