When you are exploring the “locals’ side” of the beach, finding the right restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City, can make or break your vacation vibe. While the main strip is often crowded with heavy traffic and long wait times, Thomas Drive offers a more authentic, laid-back atmosphere that captures the true spirit of the Gulf Coast. 
At the center of this culinary corridor sits Longboards Restaurant & Bar—a surf-inspired sanctuary where bold flavors, high energy, and incredible value meet.
Whether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, searching for the best pcb restaurants usually leads to a few common requirements: fresh food, a great atmosphere, and prices that don’t break the bank. Longboards checks every box, serving as a family-friendly hub by day and the beach’s top party spot by night. 
Why We Lead the Restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City Scene
Thomas Drive is the gateway to St. Andrews State Park and the Grand Lagoon, making it a high-traffic area for hungry beachgoers. However, not all restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City, are created equal. Many spots rely on their location alone, but at Longboards, we rely on the quality of our kitchen and our commitment to the “Eat. Drink. Surf.” lifestyle. 
Our venue at 8746 Thomas Drive is designed to be an open-air escape. With a spacious layout, surf-deck vibes, and plenty of room for large groups, we provide a comfortable alternative to the cramped dining rooms found elsewhere. We’ve optimized our service to ensure that whether you’re coming in off a boat or heading out to the sand, you get your food hot and fast. This dedication to the guest experience is why we are consistently ranked among the top-rated dining spots in PCB.
Discover What Makes Us One of the Best PCB Restaurants
To be considered one of the best pcb restaurants, you have to have a “hero” dish that people talk about long after they leave. For us, that hero is the Big Kahuna Burger. 
This 3-pound masterpiece is a legend among restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City. Loaded with 8 slices of cheese and 8 slices of bacon, it is a rite of passage for any true food lover visiting the coast.
Beyond the Challenge: Our Signature Menu
While the Big Kahuna gets the headlines, our daily menu is packed with crowd-pleasers:
- Smash Burgers: Hand-pressed and seared to crispy perfection.
- Gourmet Tacos: Served on cheese-crusted shells with fresh, coastal ingredients like Island Grouper and Boom Boom Shrimp.
- Hand-Tossed Pizza: Thin-crust perfection that is perfect for sharing with the whole crew.
Our focus on fresh ingredients and bold seasoning sets us apart from the generic fast-food chains nearby. We believe that beach food should be as vibrant as the scenery, which is why our kitchen team is constantly innovating with new flavors. 
Ride the Wave of Value with 2-for-1 Drinks
In a town where a single cocktail can cost a small fortune, Longboards stands out by offering a rare competitive advantage: 2-for-1 drinks all day, every day! 
This isn’t just a “happy hour” that ends right when the fun starts. From the moment we open until the last DJ set ends, your second drink is on the house.
This commitment to value is a cornerstone of our brand. Whether you want an ice-cold domestic draft to wash down some spicy wings or a signature tropical cocktail to toast to the sunset, our 2-for-1 drinks apply to a massive selection of our bar menu. It is simply the best deal you will find among all restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City. 
The Perfect Location for Beachside Dining
One of the best parts about dining at Longboards is our proximity to the water. We are one of the most convenient best pcb restaurants for those spending their day at the east end of the beach. 
After a morning of snorkeling or paddleboarding at the jetties, you can pull up a chair, enjoy the breeze, and refuel without having to navigate the gridlock of Front Beach Road.
If you are looking for more ideas on how to spend your day before heading over to Thomas Drive for dinner, be sure to visit the Official Panama City Beach Tourism Site for a full list of local attractions and hidden gems. 
From Family Dinner to High-Energy Nightlife
What truly separates Longboards from other restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City is our ability to transform. During the day, we are a family-friendly spot where kids can enjoy a pizza, and parents can relax. But when the sun goes down, we transition into the heartbeat of PCB nightlife. 
With nightly DJs, a professional sound system, and a high-energy dance floor, we offer a complete evening experience. You can start with a gourmet dinner and transition straight into the party without ever leaving the building. Our 18+ policy after 10 PM ensures a safe and vibrant environment for those looking to dance the night away on Thomas Drive. 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the top restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City?
Longboards is a top-rated choice on Thomas Drive, known for its surf-inspired atmosphere, gourmet smash burgers, and incredible all-day drink specials.
Which of the best pcb restaurants has the best value?
Longboards is the value leader in Panama City Beach, famously offering 2-for-1 drinks all day, every day, on a wide variety of beers and cocktails.
Do any Thomas Drive restaurants serve gourmet tacos?
Yes! Longboards serves signature gourmet tacos on cheese-crusted shells, featuring fresh local seafood and bold house-made sauces.
Visit Longboards on Thomas Drive Today
Stop searching through endless lists of restaurants on Thomas Drive, Panama City, and come straight to the source of the stoke! Whether you’re here for the Big Kahuna challenge, the gourmet tacos, or just to take advantage of our 2-for-1 drinks, we guarantee a meal that hits the spot. 
Experience why locals and tourists alike consider us one of the best pcb restaurants for quality, speed, and beach-casual fun. See you on the deck! 
Location: 8746 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Phone: 850-249-4547 
Hours: Sun–Thu 11am–10pm | Fri–Sat 11am–Midnight (Kitchen open late!) 