Mmm, can you smell that? The aroma of fresh dough, simmering sauce, and a hint of garlic. We can all recognize that smell when entering a pizzeria. If you arent hungry yet, you just might be by the end of this blog. If the idea of fresh-baked pizza dough, warm gooey cheese, and mouth-watering toppings excite your taste buds, you’ll want to stop by a local pizza joint. We took a poll of locals and visitors’ favorite pizzerias in the Destin area. Here were the top choices:
Merlin’s Pizza
Merlins have been serving pizza to Destin since 1999. This local pizzeria goes above and beyond by baking fresh dough and simmering fresh sauce daily. In addition to being locally owned, Merlin’s orders their produce locally and cuts it fresh themselves. If you are looking to start off your Merlins experience with a mouth-watering option, you’ll want to let the sweet buttery cinnamon bread melt in your mouth. Pair it with crispy breaded boneless wings for a savory twist. Try one of their classic pizzas like the Pepperoni Explosion or the Meaty Feast Deluxe. Feeling adventurous? Merlins offer house specialties like the Lasagna Pizza. This Italian favorite features chunky old-world marinara sauce, Italian sausage, and premium mozzarella with a ribbon of ricotta cheese! Next time you are Destin, you will want to check out Merlins Pizza.
Landsharks Pizza
Landsharks Pizza Company is a locally owned pizza and sports pub on the Destin Harbor. Customers often acknowledge this restaurant to be one of the best pizza joints in town. Their menu offers multiple award-winning pizzas. Landsharks’ large menu keeps customers coming back to try their variety of pizza, calzones, wings, hot subs, and wide drink menu. Additionally, their dough is made fresh daily. The atmosphere is perfect for sporting event showings and hanging out with friends. Stop by Landsharks next time you’re on the Destin Harbor.
Vinny Mcguire’s Pizza Pub
For large, no-nonsense portions of excellent pizza in Destin, Vinny McGuire’s Pizza is a perfect choice. The low lighting in Vinny McGuire’s gives it the feel of an old-time pizza parlor. There is also the choice of an outdoor table on the covered patio, where you can enjoy full bar service. Unique ingredients such as smoked prime rib, artichoke hearts, and Cajun sausage are perfect for those who like to go beyond the classic pizza options. If the pizza wasn’t enough to get your mouth watering, you’ll want to pair it with Mcguire’s craft-brewed Irish Ale. We recommend trying their classic Old-Fashioned Ale, which is a full-flavored ale, served in all pubs in Ireland. Stop by McGuire’s for your Italian cravings with an Irish twist!
Helen Back Pizza
Helen Back Pizza is a personal favorite- and for good reason! Located in Fort Walton Beach, this incredible pizza parlor offers unique mouth-watering options. The crust is baked to perfection and just the right amount of thickness. From the moment you take a bite of a Helen Back Pizza, the topping combinations will rush to your taste buds. If you’re feeling bold you’ll want to give “The Big Dill” a chance. The Big Dill offers unique toppings like pesto sauce, dill picks, and ranch dressing. In addition to pizza, tempting appetizers like Jalapeno Poppers and gourmet Nachos are the perfect start. Not to mention, we love supporting our local military! Inside, the military presence is incredible. This lively restaurant is owned and run by a Veteran in Special Operations. We highly recommend stopping by Helen Back next time you are in the area.
