1. The Donut Hole: A Sweet Start to Your Day
When I think of starting my day on a sweet note in Destin, FL, the first place that comes to mind is The Donut Hole. This isn’t just any donut shop—it’s a beloved local institution that has been delighting taste buds since 1978. The Donut Hole offers an experience that goes beyond the ordinary, making it a must-visit spot for anyone in the area.
The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the warm, sugary aroma of freshly made donuts, pies, and pastries. Their Key Lime Pie donut, for instance, is a masterpiece. It’s a nod to Florida’s signature dessert, with a tangy lime filling that perfectly balances the sweetness of the sugar glaze. Each bite is like a burst of sunshine, and it’s easy to see why this donut is a local favorite.
But The Donut Hole is more than just a bakery. Their breakfast menu is extensive, featuring hearty options like the Farmer’s Omelette, packed with bacon, sausage, ham, and cheese. If you’re more of a traditionalist, their classic Eggs Benedict is always a hit. With portions that are generous (the omelettes easily fill a 10-inch plate), it’s the kind of place where you can sit down, relax, and enjoy a meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a full breakfast, The Donut Hole offers something for everyone. The friendly staff, the cozy atmosphere, and the consistently excellent food make it a cornerstone of Destin’s breakfast scene.
Name: The Donut Hole
Address: 635 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, USA
Phone: +1 850-837-8824
Official Website: The Donut Hole
Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Services Offered: Bakery and breakfast restaurant, specializing in donuts, pastries, and American breakfast dishes
Main Contact Person: General Manager
For more information on breakfast menu options, visit the official website or call the restaurant directly.
2. The Pancakery: Pancakes and Beyond
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my mornings in Destin, it’s that The Pancakery is the place to go when you’re craving pancakes that are as big as your plate—literally. Their buttermilk pancakes are nearly 12 inches in diameter, fluffy, and golden brown, making them the perfect canvas for whatever toppings your heart desires.
But don’t let the name fool you—The Pancakery offers much more than just pancakes. Their menu is a tribute to breakfast lovers, with options ranging from savory to sweet. The Bananas Foster Pancake, for example, is a decadent choice. It’s topped with caramelized bananas, walnuts, and a rich rum-flavored syrup. The combination is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, with the softness of the pancakes melding perfectly with the crunch of the walnuts and the syrup’s warmth.
Beyond pancakes, The Pancakery also excels in other breakfast staples. Their omelettes are a meal in themselves, often weighing over half a kilogram, and are loaded with fresh ingredients. The Pancakery Skillet, filled with hash browns, eggs, and your choice of meat, is served in a hot cast iron pan that keeps everything warm until the last bite.
What I love most about The Pancakery is its welcoming vibe. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or dining solo, you’re always made to feel at home. The large windows let in plenty of natural light, and the staff are quick with a smile and a coffee refill. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over breakfast, enjoying good food and even better company.
Name: The Pancakery
Address: 960 Highway 98 E, Destin, FL 32541, USA
Phone: +1 850-269-0791
Official Website: The Pancakery
Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Services Offered: Breakfast and brunch restaurant, specializing in pancakes, omelettes, and American breakfast dishes
Main Contact Person: Restaurant Manager
For detailed information about their menu and to place an order online, visit their official website.
3. Crackings: A Beachy Breakfast Experience
If you’re anything like me, starting your day close to the water is the epitome of relaxation, and Crackings offers just that—a beachy breakfast experience that’s hard to beat. Formerly known as Another Broken Egg Cafe, Crackings has reinvented itself while maintaining its reputation for delicious, coastal-inspired breakfast dishes.
One of my favorite things about Crackings is its location. Just a short stroll from the beach, the restaurant is bathed in natural light, with an airy interior that reflects the laid-back vibe of the Gulf Coast. The menu here is all about fresh, flavorful ingredients with a Southern twist. The Crab Cake Benedict is a standout, featuring plump, juicy crab cakes topped with perfectly poached eggs and a drizzle of creamy hollandaise sauce. The flavors are rich, yet balanced, and the portion size—nearly 250 grams per serving—ensures you leave satisfied.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a must-try. Made from thick slices of cinnamon-swirl bread, it’s grilled to a golden brown and topped with a generous helping of cream cheese icing. Each bite is like indulging in dessert for breakfast, and trust me, you won’t regret it.
Crackings also caters to those who prefer lighter fare. Their Fresh Gulf Shrimp & Grits, made with stone-ground grits and Gulf shrimp, is a testament to the region’s culinary heritage. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, showcasing the best of what Destin has to offer.
Name: Crackings
Address: 979 US-98, Destin, FL 32541, USA
Phone: +1 850-650-0499
Official Website: Crackings
Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Services Offered: Breakfast and brunch restaurant, featuring coastal-inspired dishes
Main Contact Person: Restaurant Owner
To learn more about their menu and offerings, visit their official website or contact them directly.
4. First Watch: Fresh and Healthy Morning Options
As someone who values a healthy start to the day, First Watch has become my go-to spot in Destin. This breakfast haven prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, with a menu that reflects a commitment to health without compromising on flavor. Everything here is made to order, ensuring that each dish is as fresh as possible.
The Avocado Toast is one of their most popular items, and for good reason. Served on thick, whole-grain toast, it’s topped with freshly mashed avocado, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. The dish is finished with two basted eggs, offering a hearty 500-kilocalorie breakfast that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s simple, yet satisfying, and the kind of meal that leaves you feeling energized for the day ahead.
First Watch also offers an impressive selection of juices and smoothies, made fresh daily. The Morning Meditation juice, for instance, is a vibrant blend of orange, lemon, turmeric, ginger, agave, and beet. Each sip is a burst of freshness, and with just 150 calories per 16-ounce serving, it’s a great way to hydrate and rejuvenate your body in the morning.
For those who prefer something heartier, the Power Breakfast Quinoa Bowl is a standout. It’s a protein-packed dish with 20 grams of protein, featuring quinoa, Italian sausage, kale, mushrooms, and tomatoes, all topped with two poached eggs. It’s a bowl that nourishes both the body and the soul, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious diners who don’t want to compromise on taste.
Name: First Watch
Address: 4427 Commons Dr E, Destin, FL 32541, USA
Phone: +1 850-424-5706
Official Website: First Watch
Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Services Offered: Health-focused breakfast and brunch restaurant, offering fresh, made-to-order dishes
Main Contact Person: General Manager
To explore their health-conscious menu, visit the official website or call the restaurant.
5. The Local Market: Casual Vibes and Gourmet Delights
Nestled in the heart of Destin, The Local Market is a true gem—a place where you can enjoy gourmet delights in a casual, laid-back setting. The market has a rustic charm, with wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at ease.
One of the things that sets The Local Market apart is its commitment to quality. Everything here is made with the freshest ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible. Their breakfast menu is a testament to this philosophy, offering a variety of options that are both delicious and satisfying.
The Breakfast Burrito is a standout item, stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon or sausage,
all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. Weighing in at nearly 400 grams, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for those mornings when you need something substantial to fuel your day. Pair it with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, and you’ve got a breakfast that’s hard to beat.
For something a bit lighter, the Smoked Salmon Bagel is a great option. It features a generous serving of smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and red onions, all atop a toasted bagel. The combination is both classic and sophisticated, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. At around 250 grams, it’s a lighter option that still packs a punch.
What I love most about The Local Market is its community vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can sit down with a newspaper, chat with the locals, or simply enjoy a quiet breakfast on your own. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready with a recommendation or a friendly smile. It’s a spot that truly captures the essence of Destin, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Name: The Local Market
Address: 950 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541, USA
Phone: +1 850-460-8979
Official Website: The Local Market
Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Services Offered: Casual dining with a focus on gourmet breakfast items and fresh ingredients
Main Contact Person: General Manager
For more information on their gourmet breakfast offerings, check out their official website.
FAQs
1. What are the best breakfast spots for families in Destin, FL?
Families will love The Pancakery and The Donut Hole. These spots offer extensive menus with something for everyone, along with a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages.
Families will love The Pancakery and The Donut Hole. These spots offer extensive menus with something for everyone, along with a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages.
2. Are there any healthy breakfast options in Destin?
Absolutely! First Watch is known for its healthy, fresh options. Dishes like the Avocado Toast and Power Breakfast Quinoa Bowl are packed with nutrients, making them ideal for health-conscious diners.
Absolutely! First Watch is known for its healthy, fresh options. Dishes like the Avocado Toast and Power Breakfast Quinoa Bowl are packed with nutrients, making them ideal for health-conscious diners.
3. Where can I find a beachfront breakfast in Destin?
Crackings is just a short walk from the beach and offers a delightful, coastal-inspired menu. Enjoy dishes like Crab Cake Benedict or Cinnamon Roll French Toast while soaking up the beachy vibes.
Crackings is just a short walk from the beach and offers a delightful, coastal-inspired menu. Enjoy dishes like Crab Cake Benedict or Cinnamon Roll French Toast while soaking up the beachy vibes.
4. Do any of these breakfast spots offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, First Watch and The Local Market both offer vegetarian options. First Watch, in particular, has several vegan-friendly dishes, such as their A.M. Superfoods Bowl.
Yes, First Watch and The Local Market both offer vegetarian options. First Watch, in particular, has several vegan-friendly dishes, such as their A.M. Superfoods Bowl.
5. What’s the best place for a quick breakfast in Destin?
The Local Market is perfect for a quick yet satisfying breakfast. Whether you’re in the mood for a breakfast burrito or a smoked salmon bagel, you can grab a bite and be on your way in no time.
The Local Market is perfect for a quick yet satisfying breakfast. Whether you’re in the mood for a breakfast burrito or a smoked salmon bagel, you can grab a bite and be on your way in no time.
6. Which breakfast spot is known for its unique offerings?
The Donut Hole stands out for its unique selection of donuts, like the Key Lime Pie donut, and hearty breakfast plates. It’s a place where you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind breakfast experience that reflects the flavors of Florida.
The Donut Hole stands out for its unique selection of donuts, like the Key Lime Pie donut, and hearty breakfast plates. It’s a place where you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind breakfast experience that reflects the flavors of Florida.
Conclusion
Destin, FL, is a treasure trove of culinary delights, especially when it comes to breakfast. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats, savory dishes, or healthy options, there’s something for everyone. These five spots not only offer great food but also embody the warm, welcoming spirit of Destin. So, next time you find yourself in this beautiful beach town, be sure to start your day with a visit to one of these unforgettable breakfast destinations. You’ll leave with a satisfied stomach and a smile on your face, ready to take on whatever the day brings.
