Tex-Mex On The Emerald Coast of Florida

Photo credit to http://www.almostsupermom.com/

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a total foodie. So when it comes to restaurants, I’m a bit of a connoisseur. I’ll try anything once, but I’ve been around the block enough to know what looks good and what to avoid. When it comes to cuisine though, let me tell you, you can almost never go wrong with Tex-Mex. Fortunately, being a local gives me plenty of time to enjoy the restaurants on the Emerald Coast of Florida.  Here’s some of my favorite Tex-Mex eateries along the Gulf Coast.

Crab Island Cantina

2 Harbor Blvd #100

Destin, FL 32541

https://www.crabislandcantina.com

(850) 424-7417

There are so many great places to eat, it can be tough to choose. But one I would not recommend passing up would be the Crab Island Cantina which is located in Harborwalk Village at the Emerald Grande.  Delicious food, great view, cold drinks – you simply cannot go wrong! If you have a hankering for some chips and queso (so many different kinds!), they are definitely a winner. And with vegan and gluten free options, there is something for everyone. Head down to the Destin harbor and enjoy a margarita while you watch the sunset.

Cantina Laredo

585 Grand Blvd

Sandestin, FL 32550

http://www.cantinalaredo.com

(850) 654-5649

In the shopping and entertainment hub Grand Boulevard, you’ll come across Cantina Laredo. If you’re looking for a fun night out with some great food to boot, this is the place to be. I love guacamole, and this restaurant has definitely got some fabulous guac! They make it at the table right in front of you. Their margaritas are fantastic, which I’m sure most people know by now.  The best part about this location is that it has covered outdoor seating overlooking their fountains and courtyard so you get to enjoy the scenery or events such as live music or a farmer’s market, depending on the day.

Tijuana Flats

39 Elgin Parkway N.E.

Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

http://www.tijuanaflats.com

(850) 301-0002

If you’re looking for a place with some unique charm and incredible service on top of great food, Tijuana Flats has got you covered! I can’t say I was expecting much for the price, but they definitely hold their own! And with a salsa bar absolutely brimming with your favorite sauces and even more you haven’t heard of, it is definitely an experience you don’t want to pass up. Fresh, tasty food, incredible service, and reasonable prices? Sign me up!

Pepper’s Mexican Grill and Cantina

1176 Eglin Prkwy

Shalimar, FL 32579

http://www.peppersmexican.com

(850) 613-6970

Did someone say two for one margaritas? I love a good margarita, and when I can get two for the price of one, no way I can pass that up. Luckily for me, not only does Pepper’s Mexican Grill and Cantina have great margaritas, but delicious food as well. The chips and salsa are to die for and the chimichangas are definitely some of the best around. You simply can’t go wrong stopping here for dinner:

The Emerald Coast has so many options when comes to a delicious meal, but if you are like me and you don’t just leave tacos for Tuesdays, I can’t recommend these places enough. Trust me, you won’t find anything tastier north of the border.