7 Florida Seafood Shacks Locals Swear By For Blackened Grouper
Florida’s coastline hides some of the best-kept culinary secrets, and locals know exactly where to find perfectly blackened grouper that’ll make your taste buds dance.
These no-frills seafood shacks serve up fresh catches with bold, spicy crusts that beat any fancy restaurant downtown.
Disclaimer: This article reflects subjective editorial perspectives on Florida seafood shacks and should not be interpreted as definitive fact or universal consensus.
1. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
Bright turquoise paint and weathered wood greet you before you even taste the food.
This Clearwater Beach institution practically screams casual coastal vibes, with its laid-back exterior that looks like it’s been soaking up sun since forever.
Locals flock here not just for the killer blackened grouper but also for the people-watching opportunities.
The spice blend hits just right, with cayenne and paprika creating that signature dark crust everyone craves.
7 Rockaway St, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
2. Marker 88
Swaying palms frame the entrance of this Keys landmark like nature’s own welcome sign.
The building sits so close to the water you can practically high-five passing dolphins while waiting for your table.
Blackened grouper here tastes like the ocean decided to throw a Cajun party on your plate.
The fish arrives perfectly seasoned, with a crust so flavorful it converts grouper skeptics into lifelong fans instantly.
88000 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036
3. Salty’s Sandwich Bar
Bold colors splash across the facade like someone spilled a beach sunset on the building.
This Gulfport gem wears its funky personality on the outside, inviting curious eaters to discover what’s cooking inside those walls.
The blackened grouper practically jumps off the grill with attitude, seasoned generously with a house blend that balances heat and flavor.
Regulars order it weekly because consistency here isn’t just a goal but a religion.
3007 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707
4. Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill
Dockside dining doesn’t get more authentic than this Tarpon Springs hideaway, where boats tie up just steps from your table.
The exterior radiates that lived-in charm only decades of satisfied customers can create naturally.
Their blackened grouper boasts a crust so perfectly charred it crunches audibly with each fork stab.
Local fishermen bring in daily catches, ensuring the fish tastes like it was swimming hours ago, not days.
3630 Grand Blvd, Holiday, FL 34690
5. Snappers Sea Grill
Tropical landscaping wraps around this Key Largo favorite like a green hug from Mother Nature herself.
The building blends seamlessly with its surroundings, making it feel like a natural extension of the Keys ecosystem.
Blackened grouper here gets treated with respect and serious seasoning, creating that addictive caramelized exterior grouper lovers dream about.
Each bite delivers smoky, spicy, buttery goodness that makes you forget every other fish you’ve ever eaten.
139 Seaside Ave, Key Largo, FL 33037
6. Bayfront Bistro
Windows dominate the exterior, promising diners panoramic water views before they even step inside.
This Fort Myers Beach spot knows its greatest asset is location, and the building design shows off that advantage shamelessly.
The blackened grouper arrives sizzling with Cajun spices that wake up every taste bud simultaneously.
Crispy on the outside and tender within, it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to lick the plate clean when nobody’s watching.
4761 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
7. Captain Anderson’s Restaurant
Marina views and a sprawling exterior make this Panama City Beach landmark impossible to miss or forget.
The building has welcomed seafood lovers since 1967, and its classic design still turns heads like it did decades ago.
Their blackened grouper recipe has stood the test of time, delivering consistent perfection that keeps families returning generation after generation.
The spice blend creates a flavorful crust that complements rather than overpowers the delicate, sweet grouper meat underneath beautifully.
5551 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
