Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash
Eating is a requirement of survival. Every human being has to eat something at least every once and a while. For a college student, however, you might run into some issues trying to decide what you want that midday meal to be. Ramen is cheap, but you’ve eaten that for ten days straight at this point. Fast food is accessible, but incredibly mediocre.
My aim is to recommend some great lunch spots to head to in between your classes. Beyond just the layman’s fast food joints, I wanted to point out some enjoyable alternatives when you have that hour to kill.
The Slice House
Right by the Bay High School, Located about 13 minutes away from the college, lies a nice little Pizza Joint that is perfect for a group Lunch. Featuring 18 inch pizzas and dozens upon dozens of different slice combinations on their menu, the Slice House offers enough quantity and quality for everyone in your group. It even serves wings and salads if slices aren’t your style.
Granted, the slices are pretty greasy, this isn’t your healthiest option by far, and orders can take a while if you didn’t call in. I find myself waiting 30 or so minutes after I order before I get my pizza, even for a single pie and a couple of slices. But if you don’t mind the grease, and put in your order in ahead of time, this is a great spot for you.
It’s worth noting that they also have a location in St Andrews’, but I don’t have an experience with that location. It’s probably just as good though, so it’s worth checking out.
Photo taken from newsherald.com
Photo taken from beachguide.com
Pineapple Willy’s
Moving over to across the bridge, we have a rather iconic lunch option. I know for some of the students, of whom don’t come from over the bridge, that navigating the beach can be an intimidating experience. It’s why I try to keep my recommendations away from the beachside, but for here I have to make an exception.
Pineapple Willy’s is the lunch spot for Panama City. Right by the beach, a tropical theme, and good food to boot. Located 13 minutes away from the college, the biggest hurdle is getting over the bridge and not getting lost on the beach roads, but once you do, the visit is worth it.
Sakura Sushi & Grill
Look, I’ll be honest with this one. Sakura is a drive. Google maps puts the ETA at about 17 minutes, which might be a bit too far if you don’t have ample time to wait for your meal. It’s on Highway 77, right by the Starbucks and Walmart Supercenter, sharing a building with Road Mart Tire pros and the Key West Sandwich shop. If that sounds like a bit to far for your tastes, this one might not be for you.
But for those who are willing to drive out that far, this is my personal best recommendation for a Japanese style restaurant in the area. I’m very familiar with the place, with my favorite item on their menu by far being the Chicken Katsu. If you’re looking for some good Sushi and a quiet, calming atmosphere, this is your stop.
Photo taken from sakurafl.com
Photo taken from panamacityfoodreviews.com
Hunt’s Oyster Bar and Seafood
Hunt’s is a lovely little seafood place down in Saint Andrews, and it’s the definition of local eatery. Oozing that rustic small town charm, it’s the kind of diner that some of the more franchised southern restaurants wish they could emulate. My family enjoys going down there sometimes and sucking on some oysters for the night, and even though I’m not a fan of Oysters myself, I can respect it and have a good time.
That being said, it’s not all fine and dandy. It’s small and cramped, and it’s certainly not the cleanest place on earth. All the talking and music can be a bit overwhelming if you weren’t expecting it, but if want the vibes that this place offers, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a suitable alternative.
Randall J. Garner
Student Writer - Spring 2025
Howdy! My name is Randall James Garner. My major is for digital multimedia, with interests in game development, story writing, and music production. I play games in my spare time, with a few favorites being Halo, Team Fortress 2, Omori, and Nintendo titles. PFP by Yzom on X
