1544 S Ocean Shore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL 32136 (386) 439-0089
Waterfront Dining in Flagler Beach: 13 Must-Try Spots
Flagler Beach may be small in size, but the food scene here is anything but. Along the iconic stretch of the A1A (Ocean Shore Boulevard locally), you’ll find one unforgettable waterfront dining experience after another. With six miles of cinnamon-colored coquina sand, a retro vibe, and no high-rises to block the view, it’s no wonder people come here for the beach — and stay for the food.
When you're staying at The Beach Front Motel, you're just steps away from an ocean of flavor. We put together this list of 13 beachfront favorites, alphabetically, because honestly? We couldn’t possibly rank them. They're all go-tos, depending on the mood you're in. Craving burgers and beer? We’ve got you. Feeling fancy with a spritz and Roman-style pizza? You’re covered. Hungry for oysters with a pier view or some ribs with a side of sea breeze? Yep, that too.
Here’s your guide to some of our favorite spots to eat and drink with the Atlantic as your backdrop:
This laid-back local favorite is everything a beachside bar and grill should be — easygoing, unpretentious, and full of friendly faces. Come for the ocean views, stay for the all-you-can-eat crab legs or a juicy burger with a cold beer in hand. The atmosphere is always buzzing, especially on weekends when locals gather for drinks, laughs, and coastal comfort food. It's the kind of place where the bartender remembers your name and your usual order. The owner might even stop by your table to say hello.
2. Break-Awayz
Owned by two local brothers and their sister, this ocean-view hangout mixes craft beer with a globally inspired menu. Think conch fritters, poke bowls, and lobster ravioli. There’s even a solid non-seafood selection for anyone craving something a little different, so everyone at the table leaves happy. There’s a happy hour on weekdays, a sea breeze on the patio, and plenty of big-screen TVs to catch the game. As the sun goes down and the patio lights come on, it sets the mood for a laid-back night with friends.
This casual breakfast-and-lunch spot makes a delicious first stop to fuel up for a day on the beach. Enjoy mountainous stacks of pancakes, omelets, fresh fish tacos, or Cuban sandwiches out on the cozy covered patio with the sound of the surf just steps away. Everything is made with a touch of home-style care, from the fluffy eggs to the house-smoked pulled pork. Open from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s the perfect place to linger over a late breakfast.
4. Crave’s Coastal Kitchen and Cocktails
Casual, coastal, and spacious, Crave’s is known for its prime rib, hand-cut steaks, and fresh seafood. Pair that with sweeping oceanfront views from both floors of the restaurants, and it's everything you could want in a waterfront dining experience. The cocktails here are as creative as the food, and it’s not unusual to see owner Mike Crave mingling with guests. You can come dressed up or stay casual — either way, you’ll feel right at home.
Italian food with an ocean view? Yes, please. This modern eatery serves up Roman-style pizza, pasta, and charcuterie spreads in a light and airy space. FARO means "lighthouse" in Italian, and it's become a beacon for food lovers looking for something delicious and different. You’ll taste the authenticity in every bite, thanks to the husband-and-wife owners who brought their love of Italian food straight from their native Rome. Pair your meal with a refreshing spritz, and you’ve got the perfect balance of flavor, style, and sunshine. And don’t miss the Sunday brunch!
The Flagler Fish Company is in the midst of a major renovation at its South Daytona Avenue location. In the meantime, they’re operating out of a temporary home at the former Island Grille in the Topaz Motel. It may be a different space for now, but the food and vibe are just as good — maybe even better thanks to those ocean views. This long-time Flagler Beach favorite continues to serve everything locals love: blackened grouper sandwiches, prime steaks, and their famous clam chowder. And now with indoor and outdoor seating just steps from the sand, it’s perfect for a relaxing lunch or dinner by the sea.
Perched right on the Flagler Beach Pier, the Funky Pelican is one of the most iconic and beloved spots in town. This laid-back, all-day beachside restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating with unbeatable views of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic pier. The menu features a variety of American favorites and fresh seafood dishes, with standouts like shrimp and grits and Cajun mahi tacos keeping folks coming back again and again. With a relaxed vibe and a menu that pleases every appetite, the Funky Pelican is a must for open-air dining with a front-row seat to the ocean.
With rooftop dining, a beach bar, and live music, the Golden Lion Café is the definition of beachside fun. Dig into fish tacos, raw bar treats, or a cheeseburger in paradise. The place often turns into a party once the sun starts setting, with people dancing barefoot in the sand to live bands. After 30+ years in business, the Golden Lion has perfected the art of chill coastal dining. It’s a Flagler Beach institution that continues to deliver good times and great food every day of the week.
This throwback spot near Gamble Rogers State Park has been serving oceanside eats since 1947. The menu leans classic with wings, burgers, fried seafood baskets, and peel-and-eat shrimp that people rave about, while items like sushi-grade ahi tuna and alligator tail keep things interesting. Sit out on the deck at one of the picnic tables and soak up the vintage beach shack charm. It’s rustic, real, and just what you'd hope to find on Old Florida’s coastline.
Upscale but approachable, this French-inspired bistro delivers a charming blend of boho elegance and coastal comfort — from its breezy dining room to the beachfront patio that’s perfect for sipping wine while watching the waves. Fun fact: Next Door Beach Bistro is the sister restaurant of the Golden Lion Café, located right next door — hence its name. Signature dishes like duck confit, bouillabaisse, and salmon tartare make it tough to choose, but even the burger is a standout. With water views and warm service, it’s easy to see why locals rave about this gem.
11. Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill
Owned by two brothers, this spot was once home to their dad’s pizza restaurant. Now completely overhauled, the Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill has become a Flagler favorite for its incredible service, food, and beautiful views. This family-friendly spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. On the menu, the seafood steals the show with guest favorites such as coconut shrimp, tropical salmon, and blackened mahi. The spacious outdoor patio and rooftop deck offer a panoramic view of the Atlantic, and the vibe is always warm and welcoming. Live music on weekends makes it even better.
12. The Anchor
Classic seafood, scratch cooking, and a maritime-inspired interior make The Anchor a solid stop for lunch or dinner. Signature dishes like blackened triggerfish, seafood pot pie, and stuffed shrimp are served with hearty portions and waterfront views that don’t disappoint. Stop in at the bar for happy hour, where there’s always something good on the cocktail list to pair with half-priced appetizers. The Anchor is a great place to catch the sunset and settle into Flagler’s easygoing pace.
13. Tortuga’s Florida Kitchen & Bar
With a second-story deck perfect for dolphin spotting, Tortuga's brings a splash of the Caribbean to Flagler Beach. Order up firecracker shrimp, conch fritters, spicy calamari, and a slice of their famous Key lime pie. The live music and tropical drinks add to the vacation vibe, making it a popular hangout for both locals and visitors. The view alone is worth the visit, but the fun menu seals the deal.
Hungry yet? There’s no shortage of incredible places to eat, drink, and soak up the view here in Flagler Beach. And when you’re staying at The Beach Front Motel, you’re right in the heart of it all. Start your morning with pancakes and end your night with lobster ravioli or a rooftop cocktail — whatever you're craving, you'll find it here, always served with a side of ocean breeze.
