If there’s one thing we hang our hat on around here, it’s grouper. Be it on a sandwich, in a taco, or as a full platter, it’s the meal of the summer, every year. While there are plenty of great local spots to find it, the Wharf in Pass-a-Grille proudly stakes its claim as one of the best around, and we’re inclined to agree. Plus, it’s one of the best restaurants on the beach with boat docking.
I’ve spent more than a few afternoons sitting at The Wharf and taking my time with what is genuinely the biggest grouper sandwich I’ve ever had, and it happens every time. With the amount of blackened fish on your plate, it’s the seafood equivalent of a sidecar. Pair that with views from the table overlooking the water or a cold drink at the bar while you catch a game, and it’s what summer around here is all about. Doubly so if you’re around for happy hour Monday-Friday or live music on the deck, Wednesday through Saturday, 6-9:30 PM.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Wharf is a local legend for their blackened grouper sandwich, with grilled or fried options also available. But as great as that sandwich is, we would be remiss not to mention it isn’t the only way to get great grouper at The Wharf. There probably isn’t science to back this up, but to me, tacos are somehow better for summer, and a plate of blackened grouper tacos at The Wharf is as good as it gets.
If that’s your move, make plans for a Wednesday visit to The Wharf for their popular taco specials. Every Wednesday, they serve up two massive grouper tacos loaded with tomato, lettuce, and their signature sweet Thai chile sauce, all paired with a side of beans and rice. Pair those tacos with a margarita or an ice-cold beer, and The Wharf’s Wednesday Taco Night is the perfect way to spend a midweek evening.
They also have deals on shrimp tacos, ground beef tacos, and three types of quesadillas as part of the Wednesday taco special, if you aren’t feeling grouper for some reason.
The Wharf is a local star, and a restaurant on the beach with boat docking
Brimming with Old Florida charm, The Wharf has been a favorite among locals and visitors for more than 30 years. Recently designated a local historic site, it’s a waterfront staple that continues to celebrate the area’s rich history and laid-back coastal spirit. The family-owned hotspot has new docks (you’re welcome to arrive by boat) and a remodeled back patio, all complementing the beautiful indoor, open-air dining room and wraparound bar. After a long day on the water, there isn’t much better than pulling straight up to the dock and finding shade, food, and cold drinks.
While the grouper is clearly our go-to for an entree once it’s time to order, we highly recommend beginning your visit with one of their fantastic starters, from the seared rare sesame tuna topped with wasabi and spicy dynamite sauce to the jalapeno conch fritters and smoked fish spread.
Here, we will also make the case that there is at least one good reason to stray from seafood for a few bites: the famous Wharf Wings. There are eight sauces to choose from, and our picks are the hot honey or lemon pepper. Whatever you decide, pair it with a cold beer or crisp pinot grigio and you’ll be cool as can be, no matter how hot the summer gets.
The Wharf also has a fantastic happy hour (at the bar only, FYI), with great deals from 3:30-6 pm. They also have stellar daily specials, including Fish Fry Tuesdays (a full basket of fried fish with fries, slaw, and hushpuppies) and the aforementioned Taco Wednesdays, which also includes shrimp tacos. The kitchen regularly rolls out specialty dishes throughout the week, so we recommend following along on facebook to see the latest. You can peruse the daily specials here.
If you’re at the beach, and hungry, stop in and pick up a sandwich to go or enjoy the water view anytime from the alfresco deck or open-air dining room. In addition to docks for boaters, there is free parking on site and paid beachfront parking just down the road. Or you can just stroll down the waterfront or ride your bike through charming Pass-a-Grille
Plus, there’s happy hour at the bar every Monday-Friday from 3:30-6 pm, live music with Rob Tyre Wednesday-Saturday from 6-9:30 pm, and 17 TVs spread throughout the property, making it a great gameday pick. You can also book your own private party for groups of 20 or more, including a private server.
The Wharf, located at 2001 Pass A Grille Way, is open seven days a week. The restaurant is open daily from 11 am – 10 pm, and the bar is open from 10 am – 12 am. Gift cards available online or in-restaurant, too.
