The best bars & nightlife in Bay County

Pair a beautifully balanced cocktail with a custom candle pour at Atelier, an upscale nod to the classic French brasserie scene with a relaxed courtyard and occasional live music. It’s the kind of creative night out you’ll actually brag about to other locals, so pencil it in this week.

From the Panama City newsletter, August 7, 2026

Patches Pub nails the Panama City Beach trifecta with game-day energy, a steady lineup of live music, and legit pub grub. Think award-winning burgers and wings, handmade pizzas, fresh Gulf seafood, plus a house-smoked tuna dip and an Oreo peanut butter pie worth the calories.

From the Panama City newsletter, September 5, 2026

El Weirdo is a brewpub that doubles as a living art exhibit by local artists, pouring house lagers, hoppy IPAs, and delightfully odd sour ales alongside tacos, quesadillas, churros, and Wizard Fries. Treat yourself this week...

From the Panama City newsletter, August 14, 2026

Feeling like the beach needs a side of fruit wine? Panama City Beach Winery pours award-winning, 100% real-fruit Florida wines in flights that range from quick Lagoon sips to the indulgent Paradise tasting with port and chocolate, plus wine slushies that taste like vacay even on a Tuesday.

From the Panama City newsletter, August 27, 2026

The Grocery Kitchen and Taproom brings Southern and Cajun favorites together with craft beer, wine, and whiskey. With dishes like boudin balls and fried green tomatoes topped with crawfish étouffée, it’s a good pick when dinner could use a little more kick.

From the Panama City newsletter, October 27, 2026

Casual eatery for American staples like chicken wings and burgers, plus a relaxing outdoor deck.

Slip into Heroes Lounge in Historic Downtown for classic cocktails, fine wine, and small plates served with Panama City lore. It’s a mellow spot next door to History Class where the drinks are tight, the storytelling’s tighter, and you leave feeling like your grandparents were low-key legends.

From the Panama City newsletter, October 22, 2026