50th bday-Inlet beach (Panama) Fl

Question

Hi there! We’re celebrating our friends 50th 3/20 to 3/24. Our groups never been to the panhandle. Any recommendations of the following would be welcomed and appreciated.

1. Brunch Saturday or Sunday

2. Happy hour/dinner - upscale ish

3. Local dive or casual bar - live music preferred.

Thank you Brian!!

Answer

Celebrating a 50th birthday in Inlet Beach / Panama City area is a great idea — the Panhandle offers gorgeous beaches, relaxed vibes, and some surprisingly good dining and nightlife options. Here’s a breakdown of recommendations for your group from brunch to bars.

Brunch (Saturday or Sunday)

Another Broken Egg Café (Panama City Beach) — A local favorite for hearty, classic American breakfast and brunch options. Try the stuffed French toast or shrimp and grits.
Great Northern Café (Seaside, near Inlet Beach) — Upscale casual, creative takes on brunch fare with excellent coffee and pastries.
Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar (Destin) — For a more seafood-focused brunch option, especially if your group loves oysters or a coastal twist.

Happy Hour / Dinner – Upscale-ish

The Perfect Caper (Seaside) — Known for seafood, steak, and a refined but relaxed atmosphere. Great for a celebratory dinner and local wines.
Bella Luna (Seaside) — Italian-inspired dishes, fresh ingredients, upscale ambiance but still casual enough for a group.
Stinky’s Fish Camp (Santa Rosa Beach) — Upscale seafood with Southern charm; they often have a lively happy hour menu.

Local Dive / Casual Bar with Live Music

The Red Bar (Grayton Beach) — Legendary in the area; quirky, fun atmosphere with excellent live music. Must-visit for a casual night out.
Bud & Alley’s (Seaside) — Beachfront bar with casual vibes and occasional live music, perfect for a sunset cocktail.
Surf Hut (Seaside / Grayton) — Classic beach dive bar feel, local crowd, and sometimes live bands; fun for a laid-back night.

For a memorable 50th, consider starting the day with a hearty brunch, enjoying some beach time in the afternoon, then heading out for sunset drinks and an upscale dinner. Cap the night with live music at one of the local dives — the Panhandle has a great mix of casual and refined options without the tourist-heavy feel of bigger cities.