Breakfast Spots Panama City Beach FL
Look, we get it. Not all of us are morning people, so if you don’t want to venture too far before your first cup of coffee, be sure to check out these breakfast spots near the Beachside Resort.
The Donut Hole
12983 US Highway 98 E
(850) 213-3127
As you’ll notice by the line out the door, this place is a long-time favorite of locals and tourists alike. Luckily, there’s a cornhole game set up in the side yard while you wait for your Gulf Coast famous Donut Hole breakfast.
If you fancy the ubiquitous pastry that gives this family-owned diner its name, we recommend the Maple, Blueberry or Red Velvet varieties. Another perennial favorite? The Cinnamon Twist. Specialty donuts may be the name of the game (and the restaurant itself), but they also serve a hearty, Southern-style breakfast all day long. The homemade biscuits and gravy are a real treat – warm and fluffy and savory, oh my!
There’s a separate line for donuts and dine-in, so be sure you know which one you’re in. We understand lines are frustrating, especially on your much-deserved vacation, but breakfast here is ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT.
Seriously, this is the stuff memories are made of. Many a family has made cherished moments over a plate of eggs and bacon – and they return year after year to celebrate the most important meal of the day. It’s an iconic area restaurant, a must-do. It’s family-friendly, no frills, simple and delicious. You can try lunch or dinner, too, but we can’t get past breakfast. (It’s that good.)
When you plan your visit, keep in mind the Donut Hole closes from after Thanksgiving until the New Year. Just another thing to celebrate when you ‘ring’ it in.
Sunnyside Grill
21828 Front Beach Road
(850) 233-0729
A local favorite for morning time meals, the Sunnyside Grill is located directly across the street from the Beachside Resort. Don’t be fooled by the grill’s pink exterior. Once you’re inside, both your stomach and your wallet will be glad you wandered in.
You can walk to the restaurant, and when you get there you’ll be greeted by a cute little parrot. It’s got a “mom and pop” diner feel, even when it comes to payment. (Cash and Check only, and we didn’t spot an ATM.) But the prices are great and the portions are, too. There’s hardly anything on the menu that costs more than $10. If you have an extra dollar bill, sign your name and staple it to the wall to show you’ve been to Sunnyside.
The pancakes are fabulously fluffy, and the bacon has a perfect crunch. Coffee is served in big ol’ mugs, for mornings when you need some extra get-up-and-go. Everything is home cooked and made to order, with a good variety on kid’s meals. Lunch is served, as well, with typical diner fare. Try the prime rib omelet for breakfast or the classic burger (1/2 pound!) for a mid-day delight.
Sunnyside Grill is closed on Tuesdays, and hours the rest of the week are 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Mike’s Cafe & Oyster Bar
17554 Front Beach Road
(850) 234-1942
Just down the street from Beachside you’ll discover Mike’s Cafe & Oyster Bar, a family owned restaurant serving three meals daily. The service is friendly, and the prices are kind to your wallet.
It’s an inexpensive place to feast – we’re talking two eggs, toast, sausage and grits for, like, five bucks.
The vibe is traditional coastal, with a surplus of anchors, nets and sailboats in the decor.
A Southern-style breakfast menu runs the gamut of omelets, eggs, bacon, Benedicts, biscuits and gravy, hotcakes and your favorite morning pleasures.
Surprising menu items include Shrimp & Grits and Soft Shell Crab Benedict … at breakfast!
Our server, Julie, made us feel right at home and kept our coffee mugs full.
Bon appétit!