“It’s just carrying on traditions over multiple generations. My son ate his first oyster at Hunt’s Oyster Bar. For me, the oysters bring back nostalgic feelings because they remind me of the areas where I grew up boating and snorkeling. It’s the taste of the lifestyle of this area.”

– Collins Abrams, Owner of Hunt’s Oyster Bar

Serving fresh Gulf seafood for more than 55 years, Hunt’s Oyster Bar has become one of Panama City’s most beloved dining traditions. Located in Historic St. Andrews, Hunt’s is where generations of locals have celebrated milestones, introduced friends to their first oyster, and gathered around fresh seafood harvested from Gulf waters.

As one of the signature stops on the Panama City Oyster Trail, Hunt’s combines history, hospitality, and some of the freshest oysters you’ll find anywhere along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Whether you’re visiting for National Oyster Day, planning a seafood weekend, or simply looking for an authentic local experience, Hunt’s is a stop that belongs on every Panama City itinerary.

A Panama City Tradition Since 1966

For decades, the little yellow building in Historic St. Andrews has welcomed locals and visitors with the unmistakable aroma of fresh seafood and the sound of oysters being shucked behind the counter. It has since grown into a two-floor establishment with an upstairs deck with beautiful views of St. Andrews Bay.

Hunt’s Oyster Bar has remained a Panama City favorite by staying true to what it does best: serving fresh Gulf seafood in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where the food always takes center stage. Families return year after year, introducing new generations to the restaurant that became part of their own childhood memories.

That sense of tradition is what makes Hunt’s special. It’s more than a restaurant. It’s a place where birthdays are celebrated, stories are shared, and visitors quickly understand why Panama City has become synonymous with fresh oysters.

Why Everyone Starts Their Oyster Trail at Hunt’s

If you’ve never eaten an oyster before, chances are someone will point you toward Hunt’s.

The restaurant has become the unofficial starting point for the Panama City Oyster Trail because it offers exactly what first-time oyster eaters are looking for: fresh Gulf oysters, experienced oyster shuckers, and a friendly atmosphere where questions are always welcome.

Whether you order a single oyster to see what all the excitement is about or dive straight into a dozen, the experience feels approachable. Many visitors quickly discover that trying oysters is as much about the tradition as it is the taste.

Celebrate Your First Oyster with the Golden Oyster

In Panama City, oysters are celebrated all year long, but August brings something extra special.

Each year during National Oyster Day celebrations, first-time oyster eaters who visit Hunt’s Oyster Bar receive a hand-painted Golden Oyster keepsake to commemorate the moment. The Golden Oyster has become one of Panama City’s most recognizable traditions, turning a first bite into a lasting memory.

Visitors proudly pose for photos with their Golden Oyster, share their experience on social media, and leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir that celebrates their introduction to Gulf Coast seafood.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or that one person who’s always been hesitant to try oysters, August is the perfect time to take the plunge and start your own tradition.

Oysters All Ways, Always

Around Panama City, we like to say, “Oysters All Ways, Always.”

While fresh raw oysters remain the classic choice, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this Gulf Coast favorite. Hunt’s menu features oysters prepared to satisfy every palate, from freshly shucked oysters on the half shell to baked specialties and fried favorites.

Of course, oysters are best enjoyed with the traditional accompaniments. Add a squeeze of lemon, a dash of hot sauce, a spoonful of horseradish, or a little cocktail sauce to find your favorite combination. However you enjoy them, every bite reflects the fresh, salty character that makes Gulf oysters so distinctive.

More Than Just Oysters

While oysters may have made Hunt’s famous, they are only part of the story.

The menu also features fresh Gulf shrimp, crab cakes, seafood platters, fish, hand-cut steaks, sandwiches, and Southern favorites that make it easy for everyone in your group to find something they’ll enjoy. Whether you’re craving surf, turf, or a little of both, Hunt’s delivers the kind of meal that keeps people coming back.

It’s one of the reasons Hunt’s has remained a favorite for generations. Even those who aren’t oyster lovers quickly discover there’s plenty to appreciate.

Explore Historic St. Andrews

Once you’ve finished your meal, take time to explore Historic St. Andrews, one of Panama City’s most charming waterfront neighborhoods.

Browse locally owned boutiques along Beck Avenue, enjoy the views from St. Andrews Marina, relax beneath the iconic oak trees at Oaks by the Bay Park, or stop by another Oyster Trail restaurant for a different take on fresh Gulf oysters.

With waterfront dining, local shops, parks, and public art all within walking distance, Historic St. Andrews makes it easy to spend an afternoon discovering one of Panama City’s most beloved neighborhoods.

Continue Along the Panama City Oyster Trail

Hunt’s Oyster Bar is just one stop along the Panama City Oyster Trail, a self-guided culinary adventure celebrating the city’s rich seafood heritage.

Continue your journey with oysters at Gene’s Oyster Bar in Historic Millville, enjoy waterfront dining at Alice’s on Bayview, sample fresh seafood at Captain’s Table Fish House, or discover another local favorite along the trail. Every restaurant brings its own personality, recipes, and traditions, making each stop a unique experience.

From raw oysters served moments after they’re shucked to baked creations topped with cheese and butter, the Panama City Oyster Trail showcases the many ways locals have enjoyed oysters for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Hunt’s Oyster Bar famous?

Hunt’s Oyster Bar is one of Panama City’s most iconic seafood restaurants, known for fresh Gulf oysters, hand-cut steaks, and more than 55 years of serving locals and visitors in Historic St. Andrews.

Where can I try my first oyster in Panama City?

Hunt’s Oyster Bar is one of the best places to try your first oyster in Panama City. During National Oyster Day celebrations in August, first-time oyster eaters receive a hand-painted Golden Oyster keepsake to commemorate the experience.

What is the Golden Oyster?

The Golden Oyster is a hand-painted keepsake presented to first-time oyster eaters at Hunt’s Oyster Bar during National Oyster Day celebrations in Panama City. It has become a beloved tradition that celebrates trying your first oyster.

Does Hunt’s Oyster Bar serve more than oysters?

Yes. In addition to fresh Gulf oysters, Hunt’s serves hand-cut steaks, shrimp, crab cakes, seafood platters, sandwiches, and other Gulf Coast favorites.

Is Hunt’s Oyster Bar part of the Panama City Oyster Trail?

Yes. Hunt’s Oyster Bar is one of the signature stops on the Panama City Oyster Trail, a self-guided trail featuring Panama City’s best oyster restaurants and celebrating the city’s seafood heritage.

What else can I do near Hunt’s Oyster Bar?

After your meal, explore Historic St. Andrews, browse local boutiques, stroll along the marina, visit Oaks by the Bay Park, or continue tasting your way through the Panama City Oyster Trail.