TC's Front Porch
Experience the laid-back spirit of Florida at TC’s Front Porch. Located in the oldest commercial building in Navarre, this open-air landmark serves fresh seafood and American classics from sunrise to sunset. Join us for a meal where the Gulf breeze meets Southern hospitality.
4.5 Rating from over 3200 guests.
A Local Legend Since the Mid-2000s
TC’s Front Porch occupies a historic 70-year-old structure at 8558 Navarre Pkwy. Originally a vintage service station, owner Bob Benaquis transformed the site into the community’s favorite “front porch.” Today, it serves as a social hub for tourists and residents seeking a non-corporate, authentic beach vibe. Every guest at TC’s Front Porch enjoys fast service in a setting that captures the retro charm of old Florida.
From Fresh Seafood to Southern Breakfast Staples TC’s Front Porch offers a diverse menu tailored for every appetite.
Signature Coastal Cuisine
The kitchen at TC’s Front Porch delivers a diverse menu that bridges the gap between traditional Southern comfort and fresh Gulf flavors. Every dish is prepared to satisfy the cravings of beachgoers and locals alike, focusing on generous portions and high-quality ingredients.
Morning service at TC’s Front Porch is a cornerstone of the Navarre community. From 7:00 AM to 10:45 AM, the restaurant specializes in “stick-to-your-ribs” Southern staples. The homemade sausage gravy, prepared fresh daily, serves as the perfect companion to their golden, hand-pressed biscuits. For those seeking a unique coastal start, the Lobster Omelet—packed with tender lobster, Gouda cheese, and caramelized onions—offers an elevated alternative to standard breakfast fare.
Lunch and dinner at TC’s Front Porch center around the legendary Grouper Reuben. This widely acclaimed sandwich features perfectly grilled grouper topped with melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on toasted rye. It has become a mandatory culinary stop for visitors on Highway 98. Other favorites include the Sea Monster Po’Boy, a massive roll overflowing with fried fish, shrimp, and oysters, and the Cuban Sandwich, which layers pulled pork and sliced ham with a blend of Swiss and American cheeses.
For a true taste of the Gulf, the seafood baskets at TC’s Front Porch offer your choice of grilled, fried, or blackened mahi-mahi and shrimp. The Mahi Tacos are a standout choice, served in flour tortillas with a refreshing cilantro-lime slaw and a signature mango salsa that provides a bright, tropical finish. If you want a bit of everything, the Seafood Platter combines a house-made crab cake with fish and fried oysters for a complete coastal feast.
Menu at TC’s Front Porch encourages sharing with unique appetizers like flash-fried Alligator Bites and a rich Alligator & Seafood Gumbo loaded with crab and shrimp. Classic Southern sides, such as fried okra and cheese grits, complement the main courses. To round out the experience, TC’s Front Porch maintains a curated selection of cold beer and wine, providing the perfect refreshment for an open-air meal in the Florida sun.
At the Heart of Navarre
TC’s Front Porch serves as a geographic and culinary landmark, perfectly positioned for those exploring the Emerald Coast. The restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it is a scenic destination that captures the transition from the mainland to the pristine white sands of Navarre Beach. Directly Across from the Navarre Beach Bridge TC’s Front Porch is impossible to miss. Located on the north side of Highway 98, we sit directly across from the Navarre Beach Visitor Information Center.
Located at 8558 Navarre Pkwy, TC’s Front Porch sits directly on the north side of US Highway 98. It is the first sight for travelers turning toward the Gulf and the last stop for beachgoers heading home. The restaurant is situated directly across from the Navarre Beach Bridge and the Navarre Beach Visitor Information Center, making it an effortless meeting spot for groups and families. Whether you are driving in from Pensacola to the west or Destin to the east, the vibrant, open-air structure of TC’s Front Porch is impossible to miss.
Dining at TC’s Front Porch offers a dual perspective of the Florida lifestyle. From the elevated, covered porch, guests can catch glimpses of the Gulf waves shimmering across the highway. The atmosphere is defined by the lively “hustle and bustle” of the beach corridor, where the sound of the salt air mixes with the energy of coastal travel. The open-air design ensures that every seat in TC’s Front Porch benefits from the cooling Gulf breezes, creating an authentic “old Florida” roadside dining experience that indoor restaurants simply cannot replicate.
Navigating to TC’s Front Porch is simple for any traveler.
- On-Site Parking: A dedicated free parking lot is located immediately adjacent to the building for quick access.
- Overflow Options: During the busy summer season, guests at TC’s Front Porch take advantage of the ample public parking at the Visitor Center across the street.
- Shuttle Friendly: Local transport services, including the Gone Coastal Shuttle, provide regular drop-offs at our doorstep, ensuring you can enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine without the worry of driving.
A Glimpse into the Porch Life
The aesthetic of TC’s Front Porch is intentionally “funky” and laid-back. The gallery of the restaurant tells a story of seventy years of history, with the weathered wood and island-themed decor of the converted gas station providing a colorful backdrop for photography.
Share your Review
Your experiences and insights regarding this distinguished restaurant are of immense importance to us. By taking a moment to fill out the form below, your feedback will play a significant role in facilitating others to gain a more objective and comprehensive understanding. Trusted by Thousands With a 4.4-star rating and over 3,200 reviews, TC’s Front Porch is a proven favorite.
So Good and Worth It
Yum! The food here is really good! Lobster quesadilla and crab bisque were excellent. Peanut butter pie was perfect. Server was delightful and clearly knows what they’re doing.
Best Breakfast All Week
We had breakfast and wow! It was so good!! Our first time to eat here but won’t be our last. It was our best meal of the week!! The biscuits are very soft and fresh. The scone was excellent! My husband really liked his gravy and biscuit too! You have to to go check it out! Great food and service!!
Hidden Gem Spot
Don’t let the looks fool you. It may look like a little hole in the wall, but the food and service were outstanding. I ordered the lobster quesadilla and my wife was in the mood for a shrimp po-boy, both came out quick, hot, and great.
Loved Everything
First time here and loved it. Cute inside and out. Food was awesome and waitress was amazing. Will definitely return.
Go-To Shrimp Spot
TC’s is our go-to for perfect shrimp and fried okra every time. Fried shrimp basket and blackened shrimp are excellent.
Dining Your Way
TC’s Front Porch provides more than just a meal; it offers a flexible, community-focused dining experience tailored to the coastal lifestyle. Whether you are a local resident stopping by for a morning biscuit or a vacationer bringing the whole family off the sand, the facilities at TC’s Front Porch are designed for comfort, convenience, and inclusivity.
Navarre’s Premier Pet-Friendly Destination
At TC’s Front Porch, “family-friendly” includes your four-legged members. As one of the most welcoming dog-friendly establishments in Navarre, the open-air porch provides ample shade and space for pets to relax while their owners dine. The staff at TC’s Front Porch is well-known for providing fresh water bowls, ensuring your pup stays as cool and hydrated as you do during the Florida summer.
Flexible Dining for Every Schedule
TC’s Front Porch understands the pace of beach life, offering multiple ways to enjoy the signature menu:
Open-Air Dine-In: Immerse yourself in the authentic “Front Porch” atmosphere. With plenty of covered seating and a retro, island-themed vibe, it is the ideal spot to slow down and enjoy the breeze.
Rapid Takeout: If you are heading across the bridge for a sunset picnic or back to your rental, TC’s Front Porch offers efficient takeout service. Simply call +1 850-936-1601 to have your Grouper Reubens and Mahi Tacos ready for the road.
Inclusivity & Accessibility
TC’s Front Porch is committed to ensuring every guest can enjoy the historic venue. The restaurant features fully wheelchair-accessible entrances and designated parking spaces to accommodate all mobility needs. Despite being the oldest commercial building in Navarre, TC’s Front Porch has been modernized to provide a seamless and comfortable experience for every visitor.
A Family-First Environment
Creating memories is a staple of the experience at TC’s Front Porch. The restaurant is a high-energy, social environment where children are always welcome.
Child-Friendly Amenities
High chairs and booster seats are readily available for the little ones.
Kids' Menu Favorites
A dedicated selection of "pub grub" favorites ensures even the pickiest eaters find something they love.
Casual Atmosphere
Parents can relax knowing the "no-frills," open-air setting at TC’s Front Porch is perfectly suited for the natural noise and excitement of a family outing.
Modern Comfort in an Open-Air Setting
While TC’s Front Porch prides itself on its “funky” roadside dive roots, guest comfort is never sacrificed. In recent years, the restaurant has integrated modern cooling solutions and localized air conditioning in specific areas to mitigate the Florida heat. This blend of traditional open-air dining with modern touches ensures that TC’s Front Porch remains the most comfortable spot on Highway 98 for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions About TC's Front Porch
TC’s Front Porch operates on a first-come, first-served basis. We do not accept reservations, so we recommend arriving early during peak summer months.
Yes. Many seafood items, such as the grilled Mahi or shrimp baskets, can be prepared to accommodate dietary needs. Please inform your server of any allergies.
TC’s Front Porch is primarily an open-air, “funky” cafe. However, we have added modern cooling touches and AC to specific sections to manage the Florida heat.
Breakfast at TC’s Front Porch is very popular. The parking lot often fills by 9:00 AM, and breakfast service concludes at 10:45 AM.
TC’s Front Porch serves a selection of beer and wine to complement your coastal meal.
