The word dessert comes from the French word desservir, which translates to “to clear the table.”
Sweets were fed to the gods in ancient Mesopotamia, ancient India and other ancient civilizations. Dried fruit and honey were likely the first sweeteners used in most of the world. It was the spread of sugarcane around the world that brought about the popularity of the dessert. In the 17th century, vast sugar plantations in the New World allowed sugar costs to go down. Sugar could be used abundantly for sweet foods.
Ice cream can be dated as far back as 3000BC and perhaps was the first “dessert” in the sense in which it is known today. The ancient Egyptians are thought to have created the first cake. Apple pie is believed to be brought to America by Swedish, Dutch, and British immigrants, which quickly became a part of the American culinary experience.
We thank them all for bringing us the delicious experience of desserts. Some of our local favorites:
Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant
5551 N Lagoon Drive, PCB | (850) 234-2225
captandersons.com
Capt. Anderson’s may be known for their fresh seafood, but you can’t finish your meal without Feud Cake, their equally famous dessert! Made with finely chopped pecans and slightly sweetened whipped cream it’s nutty flavor pairs perfectly with a rich dessert wine or cognac.
Boon Docks
14854 Bay View Circle, PCB | (850) 230-0005
boondocksfl.com
Located under the mighty oaks on the Intracoastal Waterway just 5 minutes from the beaches in West Bay, Boon Docks offers you a delicious array of local and regional seafood prepared in a variety of ways. We use a special blend of spices that gives our grilled items a taste like no other! Top off your meal with one of the most decadent, delicious and unhealthy desserts in the world: our Crème Brûlée. With heavy creme, an insane amount of egg yolks and a pile of sugar, it’s the best it can get.
Angry Tuna
1701 S. Pier Park Drive, Suite 155, PCB | (850) 235-4632
angrytunaseafoodcompany.com
Whether you’re local or just visiting, stop by the Angry Tuna for the great taste of local flavors of the Gulf Coast! House specialties include the Seared Tuna Bowl, Tuna Sliders, Tuna Nachos, Colossal Seafood Platter, Peel & Eat Shrimp and many more! We’ve got a full bar with a variety of beers, Angry Tuna Red Lager and delicious frozen drinks. Don’t miss our New Orleans dessert!
Christo’s Sports Bar & Grill
2903 Thomas Drive, PCB | (850) 708-1878
christossportsbarandgrill.com
Sometimes the best things come in unexpected packages – just like Christo’s. Serving up some of the best food the area has to offer, you’ll find a little bit of everything that you and the family love at Christo’s. Hang out to watch your favorite sports team on TV while we serve you a cold draft beer and something delicious from our fan favorite menu. Ask your server about our sinfully delicious dessert options.
The Shrimp Boat
1201 Beck Avenue, Panama City | (850) 785-8706
shrimpboatpc.com
The Shrimp Boat Restaurant offers a unique waterfront dining experience, with a reputation for being one of the best seafood restaurants in town. Located in Historic St. Andrews, we offer a great Bloody Mary, as well as amazing steaks, pasta, drinks and top-notch service. Please save room for our key lime pie. As you gaze out over the water, you will be transported to Duval Street where you will enjoy the “official pie of the Florida Keys.”
Schooners
5121 Gulf Drive, PCB | (850) 235-3555
schooners.com
The official pie of beaches everywhere… key lime pie!
Paparazzi Gourmet Deli
2810 Thomas Drive, PCB | (850) 588-8244
Paparazzideli.com
It’s hard to say no to an authentic Italian cannoli or a perfect piece of tiramisu, but for those strong enough to resist these options, Paparazzi Gourmet Deli also dishes up crowd-pleasers like carrot cake, cheesecake, Italian cream cake, Napoleon, and banana pudding. Still hungry? Consider one of their dessert trays or the weekly special. Paparazzi is closed Mondays through the winter.
The Grand Marlin
5323 N Lagoon Drive, PCB | (850) 249-1500
www.thegrandmarlin.com/pcb
With sunsets overlooking Grand Lagoon, The Grand Marlin offers a tranquil atmosphere, paired with the area’s best selection of fresh Gulf seafood and wine. But don’t miss out on our Signature Praline Basket! This decadent dessert features a crispy pecan praline basket filled with vanilla ice cream and house-made caramel and chocolate sauces, topped with fresh berries. It’s sinfully good!