By Jack Smith
When my father passed away he left me his box at the Kentucky Derby and for the past twenty years, we have dedicated the first weekend of May to his memory. Talk about a party! I have a photo of myself sitting on the roof of a Louisville police car wearing my date’s pink Derby hat. Arrested? The cops said, “If we get a call you had better hold on.“ The Mint Julep is a combination of Kentucky bourbon, mint, sugar, and water. Although the race itself may only last a couple of minutes, Derby fans start at “The Oaks “ on Friday and continue until late in the afternoon on Saturday. So girls, get your favorite hat, head to your favorite watering hole, and help celebrate one of the South’s greatest traditions.
Schooners
5121 Gulf Drive, PCB | (850) 235-3555
schooners.com
What’s the most important part of the Kentucky Derby tradition? You need some bourbon! Schooners has the perfect Derby drink… the Kentucky Mule. A mix of ginger beer, lime juice, mint and bourbon! Rich, fatty, salty meats go great with bourbon, so try your Kentucky Mule with a Schooners Scuban, made with roasted pork and ham… and, enjoy it with a view!
Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant
5551 N Lagoon Drive, PCB | (850) 234-2225
captandersons.com
One of the most popular dishes at Capt. Anderson’s is the “Famous” Grilled Bay Shrimp seasoned with our own house seasoning and soaked in drawn butter… yum! A flavored rum cocktail made with lime such as a Mint Mojito is a perfect pairing. Dine early and watch the fleet unload!
American Charlie
473 Richard Jackson Blvd., PCB | (850) 238-8340
americancharlie.com
American Charlie proudly presents the “All American Mint Julip.” Made with Makers Mark, house-made syrup and a sprig of mint, this American classic bursts with flavor. Come by and let our all pro bartenders make one just for you… or check out one of our other specialty cocktails!
Boon Docks
14854 Bay View Circle, PCB | (850) 230-0005
boondocksfl.com
Relax on the docks while you wait at Fish Tales. Take in the history of our 1941 West Bay landmark, the old fish house, the Buchanan home, and the old bait store, all now part of Boon Docks Restaurant. Look out over the water as you sip on something cold and refreshing and watch the barges go by, the occasional dolphin swim by, even an alligator or two, and our mascots, the ducks and geese, who come in for their favorite – hushpuppies.
Señor Frogs
15005 Front Beach Road, PCB
senorfrogs.com/panama-city-beach
We’re a restaurant where the perfect mix of fun and flavor converge, just like the sand and the aquamarine sea. Have a great time with your family and friends while enjoying delicious dishes and the iconic Señor Frog’s yards.
Ambrosia
75 Origins Main Street, Watersound | (850) 909-0100
www.ambrosia30a.com
Ambrosia Prime Seafood and Steaks is your newest destination for the freshest seafood and best cut of steaks. Conveniently located near 30A, Ambrosia offers a variety of dining experiences paired with the highest level of hospitality in the industry. Come celebrate the Kentucky Derby and enjoy some of the finest spirits on the Emerald Coast.
Jaa’s Kitchen
9956 Hutchison Blvd, PCB | (850) 775-4493
jaas-kitchen.business.site
If you have never come across Caribbean cuisine, you should reserve a table now and sample the menu at Jaa’s Kitchen. You will find perfectly cooked chicken, pork, rice and peas, fried plantains and many other delicious items.
Hibachi Express & Sushi
9956 Hutchison Blvd. #500, PCB | ((850) 775-1480
www.hibachiexpresssushifl.com
We offer authentic and delicious tasting Japanese cuisine. A convenient location and affordable prices make our restaurant a natural choice for dine-in or take-out meals. Our restaurant is known for its variety in taste and high quality fresh ingredients. Come and experience our friendly atmosphere and excellent service. You can also order online for pickup or delivery.
San Marcos Mexican Grill Pier Park
101 Bluefish Drive, Suite 105, PCB | (850) 708-3097
www.sanmarcosmexicangrillpierpark.com
San Marcos Mexican Grill is a family-owned and -operated Mexican restaurant. The family is committed to serving authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex fare including handmade corn tortillas and homemade, tableside-prepared guacamole! Pair the delicious dishes with a range of margaritas, or a draft or bottled beer. You can even have your furry friends join you on the pet-friendly patio! Any day is a good day to chill at the grill.
