When you are lucky to be surrounded by so much natural beauty, you must take the chance to sit back and enjoy it, from time to time. One of my favorite ways to do exactly that in Pensacola is to relax with a glass of wine and watch the waves roll by. Grab a buddy or a book and head out to one of our top five places to savor a sip or two!
1. Jaco's Bayfront Bar & Grill
In Downtown Pensacola, there are only a few restaurants with a view of the waterfront, but my favorite is definitely Jaco's. Located at the end of Palafox Street, Jaco's offers sweeping views of Pensacola Bay and the bustling Palafox Pier Yacht Harbor. This also happens to be a prime spot for catching the Blue Angels practicing around lunchtime on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. However, it's hard to beat a relaxing evening at Jaco's watching the sunset over the bay as the yachts slowly meander in and out of the marina. Cheers to that.
2. The Wine Bar on Palafox
Not only do they have an extensive wine list, but also their menu is amazing and quite reasonably priced. Whether you're looking for a cheese board, sandwich or small plates, The Wine Bar certainly does not disappoint. (Try the Feta Cream Cheese BLT, and you can thank me later!) Their view doesn't offer the same natural beauty as the other locations, but it does give an excellent opportunity for people watching in lovely Downtown Pensacola. They also have happy hour every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., where select wines are half off! What's not to love?
3. The Fish House
If you are looking for a night out with the girls, go ahead and pencil in the Fish House for Wednesday. Starting at 5 p.m., you and your girls can hit the deck bar and get any wine on their menu (and any drink, for that matter) for $2. Get there at the beginning of the evening for a relaxing chat and a beautiful sunset, or show up a little later to dance the night away to a live band.
4. Sunset Grille
If you want a relaxed and flip-flop-friendly experience, get over to the Sunset Grill in Perdido Key. Though they don't have the most extensive wine list, this is the place to go, if you have kids in tow. While mom and dad enjoy the breathtaking sunset and a few quiet moments, the kids can run around on the playground, which is conveniently just a quick glance away from the sky show. The food is also great and offers options that parents and children will love.
5. Red Fish Blue Fish
If you are looking for the most unique spot on Pensacola Beach for a relaxing glass of wine, look no further than Red Fish Blue Fish. Located on the sound side, their grassy lawn is another great spot for kids, but it's also really romantic for those who left the kids at home at night. If you want to get cozy with your significant other, grab a spot around one of their fire pits and watch the sunset. Feeling more playful? Take advantage of their giant versions of Jenga and Connect Four! They also have a menu full of fresh gulf seafood, when you're ready for a bite.
Author
Brooke Fleming
Born and raised in the Pensacola Bay Area, Brooke loves to sing the praises of her hometown. Though she has lived here most of her life, she loves the fact that there is still so much to learn about this lovely town. There's always a new dish to try, a new historical fact to uncover and a new adventure waiting around every corner. Brooke has always had a deep love of the performing arts and can often be found on the stages of the Pensacola Little Theatre and the Saenger Theatre.
If you need recommendations on coffee, arts and culture, or the best bread pudding in town (or any dessert, for that matter), she is your girl.