Looking for nutritious dining options in Panama City Beach? This guide will bring you plenty of choices for healthy and organic food in PCB.
With its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Panama City Beach is a paradise for both sun-seekers and food lovers alike. But when you’re on holiday in such a picturesque setting, sticking to a healthy diet can feel like a challenge. While the city is renowned for its rich seafood and Southern flavors, there are plenty of spots that cater to healthier choices, so you can indulge with balance.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a mindful eater, or simply looking for a wholesome meal, this Florida gem offers an array of options to help you stay fit without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to dive into some #organicfoodPCB and #healthylifestyle vibes as we explore the top healthy dining spots in Panama City Beach!
Before we start, a little about us…
At Emerald Coast Retreat, our love for Panama City Beach is translated into our commitment to crafting unparalleled getaways for our guests. We offer a curated selection of properties, ranging from beachfront condos to spacious rental homes, each meticulously designed to provide the utmost convenience and comfort for your stay.
And if we may say so, we’re experts in all things Panama City Beach. In our destination blog, we’ve covered everything from hidden gems to where to find pickleball courts, with more posts always on the way to make your vacation even better. So stay tuned!
Craving something wholesome? Let’s dig in!
1. Lotus Cafe & Juice Bar At Zen Garden
Set within a peaceful garden in the heart of the city, Lotus Cafe serves a health-focused menu featuring organic ingredients, catering to vegetarians, vegans, and pescatarians. Popular choices include fresh juices, antioxidant-rich smoothies, and a variety of wraps and salads, making it the perfect spot for a light, nourishing meal.
Here, you’ll dine among lush greenery and enjoy a tranquil ambiance while savoring dishes like the Vegan Burrito, Vegan Breakfast Bowl, and Granola Fruit Bowl—all ideal for a nutritious breakfast. For lunch, must-try options include the house-made Hummus, Power Wrap, Buddha Bowl, Fish Tacos, and the Mediterranean, Portobello, and Salmon Salads. A kids’ menu is available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this local gem’s healthy offerings.
2. Pho Pier 77
Located on Front Beach Road, Pho Pier 77 is the go-to spot for substantial, fresh, and healthy Vietnamese food, especially their aromatic pho.
Their pho combines a clear, flavorful broth with fresh herbs, lean proteins, and vegetables, making it an excellent choice for a healthy Asian meal in PCB. The broth is typically low in calories and is made by simmering bones, spices, and herbs, releasing minerals and antioxidants. Bean sprouts, cilantro, and basil add vitamins and fiber, while a squeeze of lime provides a boost of vitamin C.
Other popular options on the Pho Pier 77 menu include fresh spring rolls and the traditional Vietnamese sandwich, Banh Mi. The restaurant is known for its accommodating approach to dietary preferences, offering modifications like vegan sauces and alternative ingredients to suit various needs.
3. Finn’s Barista Bar & Snack Shack
Finn’s Barista Bar & Snack Shack is a favorite among health-conscious food lovers. Located on Thomas Drive, just steps from the beach, this cozy spot is known for using fresh, organic ingredients to create nutritious, flavorful menu items.
The Snack Shack serves healthy treats like the Breakfast Burrito, Finntastic Wrap, Ahi Tuna Tacos, and Shrimp Tacos. In the “Munchies” section, you can build your own meal by choosing a base (wrap, burrito, or nachos), selecting a protein, and adding sides like sweet potatoes, a small salad, avocado, or guacamole.
At the Barista Bar, you’ll find fresh smoothies and breakfast bowls, including Overnight Oats and Granola Cereal, as well as extra snacks like Avocado Toast and Cashew Butter Toast. Favorite smoothies include the Energizer, Anti-Bad Vibe, and Healthnut. Additional beverages include locally made kombucha and Finn’s signature coffee.
4. Liza’s Kitchen
Located just next door to Finn’s, Liza’s Kitchen is a local favorite known for its commitment to fresh, homemade ingredients and a menu that caters to various dietary preferences.
This cozy, beachside cafe features a range of healthy options that emphasize both flavor and quality. Popular menu items include Roasted Garlic Hummus, fresh salads like the Caesar, Spinach, and House salad, the Hippie Chick sandwich, Pesto Chicken Panini, Chicken Caesar Wrap, Big Apple Turkey, Portobello Sandwich, and Hummus Panini.
Everything is made from scratch — from their focaccia bread to their salad dressings—and their homemade mayonnaise is a must-try! On weekends, they offer a special brunch menu, with the French Toast with Fruit as one of the stars.
5. The Pour
The Pour offers a warm, community-focused coffee shop experience with a variety of healthy and fresh menu options. Located on Front Beach Road, this local favorite is a non-profit cafe that directs all profits toward local charities and community support, giving each purchase an added purpose.
Light and healthy options include Almond Butter and Banana Toast, the Goat Sandwich, Avocado Toast, as well as delicious pastries and flatbreads. The Pour also serves organic, locally roasted coffee with alternative milk options and kombucha, making it an ideal stop for health-conscious visitors. They are dog-friendly, so feel free to bring along your furry friend and enjoy the welcoming community atmosphere and local vibes.
6. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe
While visiting the famous Pier Park in Panama City Beach, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café is a must-stop if you’re looking for a fresh, healthy twist on Mediterranean cuisine.
With a menu focused on lean proteins, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful herbs, you can enjoy dishes like the Grilled Chicken Gyro, Falafel Gyro, Chicken Basil-Pesto Pita, Grilled Chicken Roll-Up, as well as salad bowls like the Greek and Mediterranean salads. Vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie options are also available.
Their welcoming patio seating is the perfect spot to savor some delightful Mediterranean flavors. Supporting Taziki’s means also supporting the community, as they contribute to local schools, select charities, and nationwide initiatives like the HOPE Project.
7. Runaway Island Beach Bar and Grill
Runaway Island Beach Bar and Grill, located directly on the beach, may not be entirely focused on healthy food, but their menu, featuring fresh seafood and tropical dishes, has plenty of nutritious options.
Highlights include the Runaway Grouper, Caesar and Runaway Salads, Boudreaux’s Gumbo, Teriyaki Bowl, Pesto Salmon Bowl, Fish Tacos, Blackened Redfish, and Pineapple Mango Shrimp Taco. The freshness of the seafood and other ingredients is evident in every dish. To top it all off, this spot offers a perfect setting for a sunset meal overlooking the sea.
8. Firefly
Just steps from the Gulf of Mexico, this romantic, upscale seafood restaurant provides a charming dining experience in a spacious setting beneath a beautifully illuminated oak tree. For the health-conscious, they also offer excellent options on their diverse menu.
Starters like the Kobe Carpaccio set the stage for a memorable meal. Their salads are incredibly fresh, with must-tries including the Firefly House Salad, Hydroponic Butter Lettuce, Burrata Summer, Boiled Lobster Tails served with seasonal vegetables, and Honey-Glazed Salmon. They also serve melt-in-your-mouth Atlantic salmon, tuna, yellowtail, and shrimp sashimi.
For more healthy delicacies, try the Crab and Tuna Tower, Crispy Cucumber, Tuna Tataki, and sushi salads like the Kani Salad and Seafood Salad.
9. Bella Roma Tuscan Grill
For a taste of Italy in Panama City Beach, head to Bella Roma Tuscan Grill. With techniques passed down from his mother and grandmother on the Amalfi Coast, the chef delivers an authentic Italian experience, complete with fantastic healthy options.
Inside, cozy diner-style booths add a welcoming touch, while patio seating provides a relaxed outdoor option, both with a warm atmosphere. Treat your taste buds to options like the Caprese, Ahi Tuna, Caesar, and Mediterranean salads, as well as the Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich, Panino Italiano, and Caprese Panino. Each dish is crafted with top-quality ingredients from around the world for an exceptional dining experience, and the friendly staff is accommodating to dietary restrictions.
For a bit of indulgence, treat yourself to the zesty limoncello cake for dessert — you won’t regret it!
Bonus: Extra Tips for Integrating Healthy Eating Even When You Travel
Traveling doesn’t mean leaving healthy eating habits behind! Here are ten practical ways to enjoy nutritious meals on the go:
- Plan Ahead with Snacks: Pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, and protein bars. These are easy to carry and will help you avoid impulse junk food buys.
- Stay Hydrated: Always have a refillable water bottle with you. Staying hydrated not only boosts energy but also curbs unnecessary cravings.
- Opt for Local Fresh Produce: Try visiting local markets for fresh fruits and veggies. Not only are they nutrient-rich, but they also give you a taste of the local culture.
- Choose Restaurants Wisely: Look for restaurants that offer healthier options or are known for farm-to-table dishes. Many places list these details online, making it easy to choose before you go.
- Make Breakfast Count: Start the day with a balanced breakfast like oats, yogurt, or eggs with veggies. A good breakfast fuels you and can prevent overeating later.
- Pack Your Own Meal for Travel Days: Airports, train stations, and rest stops often have limited healthy options. Packing a meal for travel days helps you stick to your goals.
- Control Portion Sizes: Restaurant servings are often larger than needed. Consider sharing plates or ordering smaller portions to keep meals balanced.
- Balance Indulgences: Enjoy local treats in moderation. Balancing indulgent dishes with lighter meals will let you savor flavors without overdoing it.
- Limit Sugary Drinks: Opt for water, tea, or unsweetened beverages instead of sugary sodas or cocktails, which can drain energy and leave you dehydrated.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues, especially in new environments where you might eat out of excitement or routine rather than hunger.
Where to Stay in Panama City Beach?
Nestled along the pristine shores of Panama City Beach, we take pride in curating unforgettable vacation experiences for every guest.As a premier provider of PCB vacation rentals, Emerald Coast Retreats offers a handpicked selection of properties, ranging from beachfront condos to spacious rental homes, each meticulously designed to provide the utmost convenience and comfort for your stay.
Our local team is committed to ensuring that your escape to the Emerald Coast is nothing short of extraordinary.
