Discovering The Fishing Hole Milton Restaurant: A Local Culinary Gem
Nestled in the heart of Milton, Florida, at 3974 Avalon Blvd, The Fishing Hole Milton Restaurant stands as a cherished local institution, deeply woven into the fabric of the community. More than just an eatery, it represents a gathering place where neighbors connect, families celebrate, and visitors discover the authentic taste of the Gulf Coast. This establishment has cultivated a reputation built on fresh ingredients, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to serving up genuine Southern hospitality alongside exceptional meals. For those seeking an unpretentious dining experience that prioritizes quality and flavor above all else, The Fishing Hole offers a compelling destination right here in Santa Rosa County.
The restaurant’s location in Milton positions it perfectly to draw upon the region’s rich maritime heritage. While the name evokes images of tranquil waters and successful catches, the menu extends beyond simple seafood fare, offering a diverse selection designed to satisfy a broad range of palates. Whether you are a long-time resident or passing through on your way to explore the natural beauty of the Florida Panhandle, stopping at The Fishing Hole provides a genuine taste of local life. It’s the kind of place where the service feels personal, and the food speaks volumes about the care taken in its preparation. Understanding what makes this venue special requires a closer look at the elements that define its enduring appeal.
Key Highlights of The Fishing Hole Milton Restaurant Experience
The enduring success of The Fishing Hole Milton Restaurant can be attributed to several core strengths that resonate deeply with its patrons. These defining characteristics ensure that every visit is memorable and encourages repeat patronage:
Commitment to Freshness and Quality Ingredients: At the core of the restaurant’s philosophy is an unwavering dedication to sourcing high-quality ingredients. This commitment is particularly evident in their seafood offerings, which aim to capture the essence of coastal Florida dining. The focus is always on delivering dishes that are vibrant, flavorful, and prepared with precision, ensuring that the natural taste of the components shines through in every bite. This dedication to quality forms the bedrock of their culinary reputation.
Authentic, Welcoming Atmosphere: The ambiance at The Fishing Hole is deliberately relaxed and inviting. It successfully balances the casual comfort of a neighborhood spot with the attentive service expected of a quality dining establishment. This environment makes it suitable for everything from a quick lunch break to a relaxed family dinner. The atmosphere fosters conversation and connection, making guests feel less like customers and more like welcomed friends stopping by for a meal.
Diverse Menu Appeal Beyond Seafood: While the coastal influence is undeniable, the menu thoughtfully incorporates a variety of options to cater to all preferences. Patrons can expect well-executed Southern classics alongside their fresh catches. This versatility ensures that groups with varied tastes can dine together comfortably, knowing everyone will find something satisfying and delicious to enjoy. The breadth of the offerings showcases the kitchen’s capability across different culinary styles.
Deep Community Integration: The Fishing Hole is more than just a business operating in Milton; it is an active participant in the local community. Its longevity and consistent support from local residents speak volumes about its role as a reliable, friendly fixture. This deep integration means the restaurant understands the local palate and consistently delivers the comfort and familiarity that patrons seek in their favorite local haunts.
These pillars—quality sourcing, genuine hospitality, menu diversity, and community roots—combine to create a dining experience that is both reliable and highly regarded within the Milton area. It is this holistic approach that sets The Fishing Hole apart from transient dining options.
A Taste of Milton Hospitality Awaits You
The Fishing Hole Milton Restaurant, situated conveniently at 3974 Avalon Blvd, Milton, FL 32583, United States, offers a genuine slice of local Florida dining culture. It is a place where the focus remains squarely on providing delicious food in a setting that feels like coming home. Whether you are drawn by the promise of expertly prepared coastal cuisine or simply seeking a warm, friendly environment for your next meal, this establishment consistently delivers on its promise. We invite you to experience the flavor and fellowship that has made The Fishing Hole a beloved landmark in Milton for so many years. Discover your new favorite local spot and taste the difference that dedication to quality and community makes.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy-hour food
Quick bite
Small plates
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Locals
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Menus
Menu
Fish PoppersUS$0.00
Calamari (1/2 lb.)US$0.00
Popcorn Shrimp (3/4 lb.)US$0.00
Boom Boom Shrimp (3/4 lb.)US$0.00
Mullet Backbones (when available)US$0.00
Smoked Tuna DipUS$0.00
Grouper NuggetsUS$0.00
Crab Claws (Fried, 1/2 lb)US$0.00
Cup of Shrimp & Crab ChowderUS$0.00
Cup of Seafood or Chicken & Sausage GumboUS$0.00
Bowl of Shrimp and Crab ChowderUS$0.00
Bowl of Seafood or Chicken & Sausage GumboUS$0.00
6 WingsUS$0.00
12 WingsUS$0.00
18 WingsUS$0.00
24 WingsUS$0.00
Chicken TendersUS$0.00
Fettuccine AlfredoUS$0.00
Fettuccine Alfredo with Blackened / Grilled SalmonUS$0.00
Fettuccine Alfredo with Blackened / Grilled ChickenUS$0.00
Fettuccine Alfredo with Blackened / Grilled ShrimpUS$0.00
Bayou PastaUS$0.00
Grilled SalmonUS$0.00
Shrimp and GritsUS$0.00
Mullet Dinner (6oz Portion)US$0.00
Catfish Dinner (6oz Portion)US$0.00
Mahi Mahi Dinner (8oz Fillet)US$0.00
Seafood Basket (Fried Only)US$0.00
Grouper Dinner (7oz Fillet)US$0.00
Trigger Dinner (8oz Filet)US$0.00
Flounder Dinner (Fried Only)US$0.00
Small Shrimp Dinner (6 Shrimp)US$0.00
Large Shrimp Dinner (9 Shrimp)US$0.00
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp DinnerUS$0.00
Oyster DinnerUS$0.00
Shrimp and Oyster Combo (Fried only)US$0.00
Mahi Mahi Fish TacosUS$0.00
Shrimp TacosUS$0.00
Chicken TacosUS$0.00
Buffalo Chicken Tacos (Fried Only)US$0.00
Mahi Mahi Imperial Salad
Salmon Imperial Salad
Chicken Imperial Salad
Shrimp Imperial Salad
Buffalo Chicken Imperial Salad (Fried only)
Imperial Salad
Caesar Salad
Garden Salad
Served upon Request
Cheese Grits
French Fries
Cole Slaw
Baked Beans
Black Beans & Rice
Turnip Greens
Hush Puppies
Mixed Vegetables
Butter Beans
Fried Okra
Garlic Bread
Croissant
Side Salad
Side Caesar
Fish Sandwich (Fried Only)
Mahi Mahi Fish Sandwich
Grouper Sandwich
Trigger Fish Sandwich
Shrimp Sandwich
Oyster Sandwich
Chicken Sandwich
Kids Fish Platter
Kids Chicken Tenders
Kids Mini Shrimp Dinner
Grilled Cheese
Corn Dogs
Shrimp (1ct)
Fried Oysters (1/2 dozen)
Fried Mullet (3oz)
Catfish Filet (6oz)
Grouper Filet (7oz)
Trigger Filet (8-10oz)
Mahi Filet (8oz)
Drinks
CokeUS$3.50
Coke ZeroUS$3.50
Dr PepperUS$3.50
SpriteUS$3.50
OrangeUS$3.50
Iced TeaUS$3.50
LemonadeUS$3.50
Photos
Reviews The Fishing Hole Milton Restaurant
thomas baumann
20-12-2025
My first time here and the only thing that was upsetting was me for waiting so long to try this restaurant. The Mahi Mahi grilled dinner was really really good, tried a bit of my daughter's trigger grilled dinner that too was really good. The hush puppies outstanding, but my kids weren't much for them so I got a to go box just with the leftover hush puppies. Looking forward to my next visit.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
3-4 people
On The Go With Nic
28-10-2025
Absolutely Amazing Seafood Experience!
From the moment we stepped into The Fishing Hole in Milton, we knew we were in for something special. This gem delivers an outstanding combination of fresh Gulf seafood, Southern hospitality, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that keeps you coming back for more.
🌟 Food & Flavor (10/10)
Every dish we tried was nothing short of spectacular. The seafood is incredibly fresh and expertly prepared — whether you like it fried, grilled, or blackened, the flavor is consistently top-tier. The shrimp and crab chowder is a must-try; rich, perfectly seasoned, and served piping hot (just the way it should be). The hush puppies were crisp on the outside and moist inside, pairing wonderfully with every entrée. Their gumbo and seafood baskets are bold, flavorful, and deeply satisfying — a true testament to Gulf Coast cuisine.
🍽️ Variety & Quality
The menu offers something for everyone: from mahi mahi fish tacos and grouper sandwiches to hearty seafood dinners like fried tilapia or mullet with classic Southern sides like cheese grits and coleslaw. You can genuinely taste the commitment to quality and fresh ingredients in each bite.
💁 Service & Ambience
The staff here go above and beyond to make you feel welcome — friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. It’s the kind of place where you’re greeted with a smile, and the service makes the whole meal even more enjoyable. The casual, cozy setting makes it perfect for everything from family dinners to relaxed lunches with friends or visitors.
🏡 Value & Overall Experience
Portions are generous and prices are more than fair for the level of quality you get. The vibe is welcoming and laid-back without feeling cheap — it strikes a perfect balance between local charm and exceptional dining. It’s no wonder locals and visitors alike consider this one of Milton’s favorite seafood spots.
✨ Final Verdict:
If you love seafood done right and want a place that feels like home but tastes like a culinary treat, The Fishing Hole is an absolute 5-star destination. Whether you’re a Gulf Coast local or just passing through, plan to stop here — you’ll be talking about your meal long after the last bite.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Catfish, Blackened Grouper, Side Salad, Blackened Mahi Mahi
Group size
3-4 people
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
adom west
18-10-2025
Great seafood with friendly atmosphere and staff, we had a great meal and it was perfectly delivered.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people
Dietary restrictions
Alfa-gal was no issue to accommodate and pretty much the whole menu is available
Richard Miles
13-10-2025
We live 500 miles from fresh seafood and The Fishing Hole is in the top five of all the seafood restaurants that we have visited over the years while on vacation!
Everyone in our party of five regaled the quality of the food. From homemade soup, salad, shrimp basket and seafood basket it was all delicious! The hush puppies with their unique sauce was a delightful surprise! And don't forget the fried crab claws, they were excellent!
If you like great fresh seafood without the ritzy accoutrements, this is the place!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
9+ people
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Miranda Miranda
11-10-2025
We really enjoyed our visit to the fishing hole! The service was great! All the staff were so attentive and seemed to have good communication amongst each other. We ordered the fish bites appetizer, and they were good! Loved the spice and curry leaves in them. We also had a delicious shrimp and crab chowder. My husband enjoyed his mullet dinner, and I had shrimp and oyster dinner. Oysters and shrimp were cooked okay but not crispy crispy. We all enjoyed our food though. The hush puppies were good and huge!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Judy Brinkley
28-08-2025
Discovered this little jewel of a whole in the wall restaurant while searching for seafood on line.
What a find. Had never heard of this lunch place and it is only a few miles of … More
Linda Kuhn
15-08-2025
We absolutely LOVED this restaurant! Picked it out from looking at reviews and so glad we did. The food was all very good, especially their hushpuppies and shrimp & crab chowder (probably the best soup we've ever had!). Friendly staff and great service. Will definitely put this on our list to return to when in the area!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Mister Panini
12-08-2025
Fantastic food. The gumbo is a mild heat but the seasonings provide a very pleasant aftertaste. The fried mullet spines are delicious, and make for a very cheap finger food to enjoy while chatting. The mahi tacos are fantastic; of the 5 restaurants I have tried in the area so far that offer fish tacos, this is by far the best. They're great fried, blackened, and I'm sure grilled is good too. The building itself is pleasant in a homely kind of way, very much a local atmosphere. My only feedback is that it did take an hour to be served the entrees, however, all the food was piping hot and fresh. I'm sure they may have just been understaffed tonight.
This restaurant is going on the list for must go to, and come back to regularly.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Hideko-Margie Baldwin
19-07-2025
Quick update...
Dec 2024...This place keeps getting better & better! When it started, it was tiny, but with expanded seating, which more than tripled from opening day, has reduced wait and service times. It has become one of our favorite sea food restaurants in town. Good selection, good quality tasting food, and decent prices. Our food orders have been perfect every time and they have improved the look with nice upscaled tablecloths.
Keep up the good work. We can see that the owners are reinvesting their profits right back into quality of service. THANK YOU.
This is the second Fishing Hole Seafood restaurant in the area. The first has been successful in Pensacola & this one opened in Milton on September 13, 2021. Welcome them to Milton! Their proven proven menu in Pensacola is a nice welcome to Milton.
Today, 9/20/2021, I decided to check them out. I'm updating the review with photos & service notes. First let me say that every staff member was friendly & very helpful. I wanted to try their chowder. I normally only order New England style clam chowder, because I normally don't like gumbo or other seafood soups. But today, my palate was opened to new tastes with great approval. When I explained that I've never really liked gumbo, Ken, the owner, took it as a challenge & brought small samples of their chicken gumbo and seafood gumbo. I want you to know that their combination of spices makes them very delicious. To change my mind on gumbo takes some doing and they did change my mind. This restaurant is not afraid to use spices to enhance their dishes. The cup of shrimp & crab chowder that I did order was served piping hot (just the way it should be! NOT lukewarm like most places.) Simply outstanding & they served it it with a small pitcher of Sherry for topping which changes the flavor of the chowder completely. By the time I ate my cup of soup & gumbo samplers, I just couldn't finish not even half of my mullet which apparently is one of their most popular dinners. (I will try their salmon next time.) I did however, take sample tastes of the mullet which was fried to perfection with a good meal breading. Their cheese grits is flavorful, not bland as some grits dishes can be and their hush puppies will not disappoint! They were crisp on the outside & not gummy, but moist & delicious to the last bite.
Overall, very pleased with food & service. A definite "must come back regularly" place. You have my hearty support & welcome to Milton!
Service
Dine in
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
MA Kingry
15-07-2025
VERY pricey for what you get. There are better options for seafood for a more reasonable price. Most everything was over 15.00. The only low cost option was to order off the kids/Seniors menu. I was able to find a combo of 3oz Mullet a … More
Niki Clay
14-07-2025
Great food! I had the bacon wrapped shrimp meal as well as a mullet backbone. Sweet potatoe fries are a new side but not on the menu yet so make sure to ask. Best I've had with a side of warm caramel sauce for dipping... sooooo good!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Shrimp and Grits, Fried Okra, Cheese Grits
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
LeeAnna McDaniel
14-06-2025
Service was friendly and prompt. The food was prepared well and served quickly. Everything was tasty and the portions were large. Prices were fair. The only thing that was a bit off to me was one of the servers had an infant on her hip … More
dale gilbert
08-06-2025
Well a little disappointed most definitely could have been better on the food some was good and some was not. The alfredo chicken sauce was separated noodles look kind of old like it been under a burner and the patio was not so much closed in, it was cold plexiglass windows. Chicken tacos we're okay. The hush puppies were awesome More
Chrissy Faust
31-05-2025
Food was excellent, had the mullet dinner and fish sandwich. Perfectly cooked, and a large portions! Our server, Kiya, was very friendly and helpful, and went out of her way to give us a wonderful experience! Will definitely be going back, might just become regulars there! More
Justin Roberson
27-04-2025
This place is a very good place to eat. If you’re looking for a good quiet atmosphere this place is good. Also, this place kind of reminds me of my hometown back in Mississippi because it has some good soul food. It has great seafood, regular food and if you’re looking just for soul food, this is a good place to eat. It has a variety of options.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
5-8 people
Wait time
No wait
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
wendy g.
28-03-2025
absolutely delicious!!!!
fish poppers and grouper nuggets - yum
blackened mahi mahi and fried okra - yum
seafood basket with black beans and rice - yum
fettuccine alfredo with grilled shrimp - yum
key lime pie - yum
service - excellent
we took my aunt and uncle to lunch today and we all loved our food! we will definitely return when we visit them next!
(just an fyi to mgt - it would benefit you to get a 10 cup coffee pot to have on hand when people ask for coffee - like with dessert)
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Fried Grouper Nuggets, Fried Okra, Hush Puppies
Group size
3-4 people
Namiko Wooten
27-03-2025
Tonight was our second time here for dinner. (The first time was 9 months ago.) We had such great meals. A cup of Shrimp and crab chowder, Smoked tuna dip, Side salad, Fried Oysters dinner, Large fried shrimp plate and some alcoholic beverages. The servers were nice and the food was great. We enjoyed our time over here again🥳
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Fried, Hush Puppies, Side Salad, Butter Beans
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Chris Ashworth
19-03-2025
Came in from California, had already been to the tourist traps in the big cities. Gumbo came out a little warm, but was delicious. I kindly asked them to nuke it just a little and they got me a fresh cup that was down home piping hot and delicious.
Cheesy grits and shrimp was on point! Kind staff, happy patrons being treated like family and great food!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Wheelchair accessibility
Accessible
Joe Pezzulich
25-01-2025
We had a very enjoyable lunch here. I usually order a grouper sandwich if I'm in the mood for a fish sandwich. I decided to try their trigger fish sandwich and was glad I did. It was excellent. We also tried their fishball appetizer. It had the consistency of a hushpuppy and was full of flavor. My wife ordered the shrimp and crab chowder, which comes with a side salad. The side salad could have been a meal on its own. Everything tasted great and the service could not have been any friendlier.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Melissa “Lissa” Maheux
06-01-2025
My friends and I went to the fishing hole to eat around Halloween time. We had asked a cashier at a local gas station and we were referred there. The name sounded fun so we found it. The location is kinda off when people explain directions to you. It's located on a side road parallel to the main road which is Avalon. The atmosphere was airy and not to noisy. It was busy when we arrived there and we waited a few mins before we were acknowledged that we were waiting at the "please wait to be seated" sign. It was hot and humid in the closed in front porch/room/entryway to main building. But once we were seated we were able to cool off from the air. Drinks were brought but had to ask for lemon 3 times and after the 3rd time the waiter acted like he wanted to take out order before finishing our drink order. I don't think I'm being too 'judgy' about the service, cause I really didn't have an opinion, yeh or nah yet. I didn't want him to forget something on my food order cause he's trying to get the rest of my drink order right. I ordered what was suggested by the hostess or the lady that sat us. I'm sure she was another waitress/waiter. The food was plentiful. I hate to say it but there was nothing out of ordinary splendid about the fried catfish dinner. The oil that was used had the same flavor on both of my dinner items. French fries, hush puppies and catfish nuggets all tasted bland and the oil taste was the same flavor on all 3items. We didn't stay for dessert and I did not take my left overs home. I did order an appetizer of buffalo shrimp. I had not seen that in a while. The appetizer was prepared correctly. Some resturants over cook the shrimp and it gets all rubbery; there's no way to enjoy it then. But it was surprisingly pleasant. The meal, appetizer, and drinks for 3 people was close to $80. From a scale 1-10 I would give them a 6/7 It just wouldn't be a rush for me to want to go back there. And truthfully I would not plan a date night to start there. I could do that kinda cooking myself and would even have to leave home and feel disappointed. 😁
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Reservation
Reservations not required
Group size
2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people, Not sure
Reviews The Fishing Hole Milton Restaurant