Dining Out Gulf Coast: Runaway Island Bar & Grill, Panama City Beach, Florida

On our recent visit to the Gulf Coast, we stayed at the Emerald Beach Resort on Front Beach Road.  The restaurant next door had been recommended by several people. Runaway Island Bar and Grill. This beautiful restaurant is located directly on the beach and has several dining areas, including a large, covered deck area beachside.

Once again, I neglected to take the "good camera" when we walked next door to the restaurant so unfortunately you'll be stuck with cell phone photos which do not give the food justice.

We were promptly seated and after drink orders were taken, a hot loaf of bread was delivered to the table. I slipped off the low(er) carb plan. I had to have some of these beautiful bread. The selling point? The butter. A compound butter which included roasted garlic, asiago cheese and finely chopped rosemary. Absolutely amazing.

It was late when we dined that night, so I chose a bowl of Boudreaux's Chowder: Shrimp grouper, crawfish, andouille sausage, and red potatoes simmered in beer and seafood broth. My pet peeve about soups/stews/chowders served in restaurants? Room temperature servings. Thank goodness this was not a problem with this chowder. Thick and flavorful and FULL of the stated ingredients. Eaten along with the hot bread and that heavenly butter, Lolly was a happy girl.

Sweet Harold chose the night's special:  Wood grilled salmon, topped with a lemon butter sauce and three Gulf Shrimp. He chose green beans as the side dish. They were steamed and served with a soy glaze. He gave both items two thumbs up.

 

Even with the large crowd on the Labor Day Weekend night, service was prompt and the food was served hot. I'd love to go back again and dine on the deck. 

There was also a live band deckside to entertain the diners. A great evening.