Food Traveler Magazine Winter 2016 | Page 64

Greetings FROM FLORIDA! Unforgettable Eateries DINE IN MEXICO BEACH, FL Mexico Beach, Florida, just 40 minutes east of Panama City Beach, offers the same white-sand beaches and clear waters without the crowds and overdevelopment. You’ll meet many friendly locals who are happy share their gorgeous, uncluttered beaches and related treasures, including fantastic cuisine. A lucky fishing destination, Mexico Beach lures many seafood lovers, with Toucan’s restaurant sitting directly on the beach for wide-open views of the Gulf of Mexico. Making the most of the location, the family-friendly eatery and Tiki Bar boast an island vibe and dress code to match. Another to-die-for seafood establishment is the aptly named Killer Seafood. Although the Killer Seafood brand is expanding, don’t count on the restaurant getting bigger (the capacity remains at forty seats) or any fancier (signed dollar bills add character to the rustic walls and ceiling). For a taste of Old Florida, you’ll want to visit the Fish House, a fixture in Mexico Beach since the 1970s. The gumbo is a winner in the true sense, having placed in the annual Mexico Beach Gumbo Cook-Off many times. You can also find extraordinary wings here, thanks to Mango Marley’s. Count on an expansive menu and a game day atmosphere perfect for football season. All items are freshly prepared and cooked to order. For breakfast, find a seat in Sharon’s Café, where every item is cooked to order. A favorite is the Western hash brown omelet with onions, tomato, peppers, and cheese, all folded into scrumptious hash browns. Needing a cup of Joe? Stop by Caribbean Coffee or Graba Java, each serving fresh-brewed coffees, warm pastries, and more. Mexico Beach has an abundance of sultry flavors to offer from restaurants catering to every palate. Grab some company and come enjoy the many tastes of The Unforgettable Coast®! 62 FoodTraveler l Winter 2016