FINNS Island Style Grub

Locally owned and Operated

FINNS on Thomas Drive

Waiting in line to order some famous fish tacos outside of FINNS Island Style Grub, the light hearted sounds of Jack Johnson’s “Fortunate Fool” resonates throughout the property. Looking around the dining area, there is rarely a time I can recall being here without running into a familiar face. Besides having some of the best food Bay County has to offer, I often come to FINNS just to be around friends and the people I care about most.  I believe it’s important for communities to have locally owned establishments such as FINNS, that know many of their customers on a first name basis and make you feel at home when you visit.  That is exactly the type of environment Owners Justin and Karen Buxton have created with their restaurant.

This modified food truck turned taco launcher has been converted to an outdoor restaurant with a huge pavilion and picnic table seating.  Bistro lights suspended overhead provide lighting for summer nights when they stay open late for live music and other events. The truck is permanently parked and nestled right next door to Mr. Surfs, a one stop surf shop and longstanding landmark to the surfing community. Justin and Karen opened for business in June of 2009, naming the establishment after their first born son Finn, or as I have always called him, Finnjamin. Nearly a decade and one zillion fish tacos later, they have expanded with a second location and a barista bar, and have become one of the most popular eateries in the area with a legion of loyal customers.

Small, Simple, Fresh

The Buxton’s focus going into the restaurant business was to keep it small, simple and fresh. Justin mentions, “Consistency is extremely important for restaurants, especially when you first open, because one bad experience could potentially cost you a customer.” Fish tacos have always been the lifeblood of FINNS, but the menu has grown over the years to satisfy even the pickiest of palates and lifestyles.  The process to ordering food at FINNS is simple, what do you want it on, and what do you want in it. Customers can choose from tacos, burritos, rice bowls, quesadillas, nachos and salads. Next up is choosing a protein, ranging from fresh caught fish and shrimp, to carnitas, jerk chicken or steak. My personal favorite, the carnitas, are made by smoking pork shoulder low and slow for over twelve hours a day in advance, then seared until crispy on the griddle to order. If you need something to munch on while you are waiting on your order, smoked tuna dip or fresh ceviche with chips should hit the spot.

This Isn’t Your Average Taco

While the menu might remind you of numerous “order at the counter” taco joints, FINNS Island Style Grub has a very unique style and taste that separates their food from the rest of the pack. Inspired by cuisine found in the numerous surfing expeditions Justin and Karen have taken throughout the Caribbean, the food isn’t quite the Mexican fare people will find at similar establishments.  Fresh seafood is at the heart of the menu and FINNS offers mahi and seared ahi tuna as well as numerous “catch of the day” specials.  Loaded with toppings such as avocado ranch, shredded cabbage and diced pineapple add to their distinctive island style flavor. With a culinary degree and Cajun roots, Justin has crafted some amazing flavor combinations you won’t be able to find anywhere else in the area.

Keeping it fresh isn’t just a catchy mission statement, it’s the foundation Finn’s is built on. Everything cooked at FINNS is grilled to order and well worth the wait. Many competitors have a system of precooking menu items and keeping them in hot wells throughout the day. While this may speed up ticket times, the quality of the food is heavily affected. That’s why Justin and Karen have a strict process to preparing each menu item to ensure every order comes out fresh and delicious each time.

Giving Back to the Community

Loyal customers and a lifetime of friends in the Bay area have given the Buxton’s the push and support they needed to get FINNS where it’s at today. It’s nearly impossible to drive around the Panama City Beach area without eventually passing a car with FINN’S signature shark logo displayed across the bumper. That love and support didn’t go unnoticed with Justin and Karen. The devout couple have held numerous events and fundraisers at their restaurants for friends and customers going through hard times. They are also actively involved in Bay County’s “Blessing of the Fleet” which is a traditional maritime event to commemorate those who were lost at sea and ask God to bless those who make their living on the sea.

FINNS Island Style Grub can be enjoyed at two locations. Their flagship restaurant and Barista Bar are located at 7210 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach FL, 32408. This location opens for breakfast and lunch with seasonal hours. Their second location is located in Historic St. Andrews in Little Village on West 12^th Street and is open for lunch and dinner with nightly live music and seasonal hours. Stop by any of these locations for fresh island style food, gourmet coffee, small batch kombucha and souvenirs. Visit www.finnsgrub.com or find them on Facebook or Instagram for more information.

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