TOP 5 RESTAURANTS AROUND DAYTONA BEACH
Every year since 2017 my family and I have went to Daytona Beach Shores for our Family Vacation. With that being said, we (okay, my mom) refuses to cook on vacation. We’re lucky to get scrambled eggs in the morning – and that’s because I make her. In all honesty, I’m not complaining. Who wants to cook on vacation anyway? And going to eat with my family after hanging out by the ocean all day is one of my favorite things to do – plus we go shopping afterward (and if you know me, you know that’s right up my alley). We have been exploring Daytona Beach Shores and their surrounding cities for a while now. If you’re visiting sometime soon or even a year from now, be sure to try out some of these restaurants.
+ Off The Hook at Inlet Harbor
If I could drive an hour for dinner every night, I would. This restaurant is by far my favorite place I have had on the East Coast of Florida. We found this gem last year, and haven’t looked back since. It doesn’t matter what you get to eat, their food is amazing regardless. They offer live entertainment on the deck, a full bar outside and inside as well as daily happy hour.
If you’re planning an evening trip to Off the Hook, make sure you arrive early, because the wait times can reach up to 2-3 hours. For starters, we always get the Crab and Shrimp Dip (which explains itself). For a few other recommendations, I LOVE their Rock Shrimp – think of this as mini lobster tails. The shrimp is split and broiled with garlic butter (YUM) and seasoned bread crumbs. In the past, I have also ordered the Fresh Fish of the Day which is usually grouper. This is the only place I will get grouper because it’s just that good. Like, holy sh*t.
+ Down the Hatch
One of the original restaurants we found while on vacation. First, let’s talk about their hushpuppies – cooked to perfection. Oh, and for all the Crab Leg Lovers (like myself), this is the place to get them. I look forward to this restaurant every year just for that. A huge thanks to my dad for always helping me crack the legs.
+ Hull’s Seafood
The beauty of Daytona Beach Shores is that you’re right in between Ponce Inlet, and Ormond Beach. If you’re looking for a little drive, and something low-key – Hull’s Seafood is your place to go. Personally, Hull’s is in my top two restaurants when we’re at the beach – but also another place to arrive a little earlier. This gem is no longer a secret as their business has grown drastically since our first visit. It used to be a little shack where you would order your food, and then sit down to wait for your number to be called – but now they have expanded to a nice little restaurant that offers indoor and outdoor seating. Super cute place, but it doesn’t have a view.
+ Ocean Deck
Want lunch by the water with some reggae vibes? Visit Ocean Deck if you need to chill out, especially if you’re on vacation with your family (trust me, I know – it gets hectic sometimes). My brother and I love going there to get their Mahi-Mahi sandwich – but add Mac n’ Cheese and Bacon. Whatever you choose to munch on for the moment, you won’t be disappointed.
+ Don Pepper’s
For the ones reading this that don’t always want seafood – this Mexican restaurant was referred to me by a few friends of mine, and it did not disappoint. Recently, they have been short of staff (go figure, thanks COVID) – but they still get the job done. If you judge a Mexican restaurant based on their salsa, this is your place. Their salsa does have a little spicy kick to it, but just make sure you have something to drink on the side. For dinner, I got their fajitas – and their portions are huge! I recommend sharing with someone if you’re the type of person that always fills up on Chips and Salsa.