I read the history of Hamilton’s on their website. It is interesting how a Greek immigrant brought the place to its current popular status in the Panama City Beach area. Today, Steve Stevens carries on this legacy. I expected Hamilton’s was going to be outstanding. I had read that it was on the same par as Capt. Anderson’s, located across the street. The lines of people waiting outside seemed to testify that this was the place to eat. Our food, service, and the ambience, however, begged to differ.
The restaurant is a large open timbered room with views of the waterway. Unlike Capt. Anderson or the Treasure Ship where you have a view of the marina, the water outside of Hamilton’s is relatively uneventful. The restaurant is nicely decorated though. The décor more seems to suit couples or adults rather than families.
Upon arrival, we were ushered past a window that provided a view of their famed mesquite grill. It would have been nice for the hostess to pause a moment so we could see or even better if she pointed out the grill and its uniqueness. Instead, we had to skip to keep up.
We arrived at sunset, which was very pretty. They had to keep the shades slightly drawn to keep the sun from blinding the patrons. The dinners, including the skewered grilled shrimp, the fried shrimp and the steak, were nothing special. The food was just ok, and somewhat overpriced. We did not try the desserts. It was obvious the server wanted us out to accommodate the crowds of people lined up waiting to eat.
If you must try Hamilton’s, do so not expecting the best meal in Panama City Beach. However, it isn’t the worst either. Maybe try their special ribs with Gus’ special sauce, or the Greek shrimp Christo "a la Steven" with angel hair pasta.
We left not feeling ripped off, but knowing we would not return.