When you are navigating the vibrant culinary landscape of the Emerald Coast, the sheer number of PCB restaurants can be overwhelming. From high-end seafood houses to small roadside shacks, the options are endless. However, for those who live here year-round and for travelers who want to avoid the “tourist traps,” one name consistently rises to the top of the list: Longboards Restaurant & Bar. 
Located at 8746 Thomas Drive, we have built a reputation as the heartbeat of the East End, blending bold flavors with a laid-back surfer’s paradise vibe.
What makes us a standout among the hundreds of PCB restaurants is our commitment to the local community. While many spots on Front Beach Road cater strictly to seasonal visitors, we focus on providing a consistent, high-quality experience for our regulars. Whether you are looking for a mid-day refuel or a late-night celebration, Longboards is the ultimate destination for local pcb eats that hit the spot every single time. 
The Heart of Dining in PCB: The Thomas Drive Advantage
Location is everything when it comes to PCB restaurants. Thomas Drive is widely considered the “locals’ side” of Panama City Beach. It is where you find the best fishing charters, the entry to St. Andrews State Park, and a community that values authenticity over flash. 
By choosing to spend your evening with us, you are stepping away from the gridlock and into a space designed for relaxation and social connection.
Our venue is an open-air sanctuary that celebrates the surf culture of the Gulf Coast. We provide a spacious, high-energy environment that is perfect for large groups, families, and solo travelers looking for a friendly face. This “local first” mentality is what has solidified our position as one of the most trusted names for dining in PCB. When you eat here, you aren’t just a customer; you are part of the Longboards family. 
Bold Flavors and Signature Local PCB Eats
To compete with the best PCB restaurants, you have to deliver on the plate. At Longboards, our menu is a fusion of classic American beach fare and bold, gourmet twists. We don’t believe in “standard” food. We believe in food that makes you want to come back the very next day. 
Why Locals Love Our Menu:
- Smash Burgers: We use a specialized technique to create a crispy, caramelized crust on our fresh beef patties, making them the best burgers on Thomas Drive.
- Cheese-Crusted Tacos: Our gourmet tacos are built on a foundation of melted cheese, providing a savory crunch that redefines the beach taco experience.
- Thin-Crust Pizza: Perfect for sharing with a group, our stone-fired pizzas are a staple of the local pcb eats scene.
- The Big Kahuna: For the truly hungry, our 3-pound burger challenge is a legendary rite of passage in Panama City Beach.
We prioritize fresh ingredients and handcrafted sauces. Whether it’s our signature “Wipe Out” wing sauce or our house-made zesty slaw, every element of our dishes is designed to provide a “wow” factor that you won’t find at the chain PCB restaurants. 
The Home of the 2-for-1 Drinks Value
A major reason why we are a favorite for dining in PCB is our commitment to value. We understand that a day at the beach can be expensive, so we make sure your night out doesn’t have to be. We are famous for our 2-for-1 drinks special—available all day, every day! 
Unlike other PCB restaurants that only offer discounts during a limited happy hour, our deal starts the moment we open and lasts until the last DJ set ends. 
Whether you want a domestic draft, a craft beer, or a signature coastal cocktail, your second round is always on us. This unbeatable value makes us the top choice for locals who want to enjoy the beach lifestyle without the “tourist” price tag. 
Nightlife, Entertainment, and 18+ Vibes 
What truly separates us from other PCB restaurants is what happens after the sun goes down. As the dinner rush fades, Longboards transitions into the premier destination for nightlife in Panama City Beach. We host nightly DJs who spin everything from top 40 hits to high-energy dance tracks, creating a club-style atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else on the East End.
Why the Party Happens Here:
- Massive Dance Floor: Plenty of room to move and celebrate with your crew.
- 18+ Environment: After 10 PM, we provide a safe and vibrant space for younger adults to enjoy the nightlife.
- Late-Night Kitchen: We serve our full menu until late, ensuring you can get your favorite local pcb eats even after midnight.
This dual identity as a family-friendly restaurant by day and a high-energy club by night is what makes us a cornerstone of the dining in PCB experience. 
Supporting the Panama City Beach Community
Being one of the top PCB restaurants means more than just serving food; it means being an active part of the community. We are proud to support local events and encourage our guests to explore everything that makes our city special.
If you are planning your trip, we highly recommend checking out the Official Panama City Beach Visitor Information to find the best local hidden gems, from Shell Island excursions to sunset cruises. 
Pairing a day of local adventure with a meal at Longboards is the most authentic way to experience our beautiful coast. 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes Longboards different from other PCB restaurants?
Longboards focuses on a “local-first” atmosphere, offering incredible value with 2-for-1 drinks all day, every day, and a surf-inspired menu that you won’t find at the chains.
What are the best local PCB eats to try at Longboards?
Our smash burgers and cheese-crusted gourmet tacos are fan favorites. If you are feeling brave, you can also try the 3-pound Big Kahuna burger challenge!
Does Longboards have a happy hour?
Our happy hour is every hour! We offer 2-for-1 drinks from open to close, seven days a week, making us one of the best values for dining in PCB.
Is Longboard’s family-friendly?
Yes! We are a family-friendly restaurant during the day and early evening. After 10 PM, we transition into an 18+ club environment with nightly DJs.
Join the Local Scene at Longboards Today
Don’t settle for a generic dining experience. Come see why we are the favorite among PCB restaurants for those who truly know and love the beach. Whether you are here for the bold flavors of our local PCB eats, the incredible value of our 2-for-1 drinks, or the high-energy vibe of our nightly entertainment, we guarantee a night you won’t forget. 
Grab your friends, head down to Thomas Drive, and experience the best of dining in PCB. We’ll see you at the bar!
Location: 8746 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Phone: 850-249-4547 
Hours: Sun–Thu 11am–10pm | Fri–Sat 11am–Midnight (Club Open Late!) 