It may not get as much attention as the Cuban or the Key lime pie, but the grouper sandwich is as much a Florida institution as any other dish. There are some great ones out there, just a hunk of fresh-caught fish between a bun, maybe a dollop of tartar sauce and dressed with a bright tomato slice. But how do you track down the state’s best grouper grub? We’ve done it for you. Here are seven sandwiches deserving of your next road trip adventure. 

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Frenchy’s

Pinellas County

With five locations in Pinellas County, Frenchy’s does up a grouper sandwich in more ways than most (reuben, Cajun, buffalo, et al). For a real boat-to-table experience, head to the Clearwater Beach docks from 8 to noon to see the arrival of Frenchy’s fleet hauling in line-caught grouper daily.

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Big Ray’s Fish Camp

Tampa

They’re known for a legit grouper sandwich here. But what really gets attention on Instagram is a sandwich we can’t officially endorse (because we worry about your cholesterol): a grouper BLT between Krispy Kreme donuts.

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Dockside Dave’s

Madeira Beach

Every sandwich boasts a half pound of never-frozen grouper at this across-from-the-beach institution, which serves them up seven different ways, including lemon-peppered and buffalo style.

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Grouper & Chips

Naples

They’ve been serving grouper sandwiches between challah bread for nearly three decades from this strip mall spot north of downtown Naples. You can add a slice of American for a bit of McD’s nostalgia.

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Keys Fisheries

Marathon

Considering the never-ending crowds and its spot just off the Overseas Highway, you would be mistaken to write off this roadside Keys spot as a tourist trap. Although most notably known for the lobster reuben, they serve up one of the best fish sandwiches in the state, and the grouper hand-held just might be your new fave.

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The Snook Inn

Marco Island

It’s worth the trip up to the northern end of Marco Island just for a margarita under the chickee hut, with its view of dolphins jumping in the inlet. The good news is that the grouper sandwich is also excellent, especially the fried version, with its crispy edges jutting well outside the bun.

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Dockside Seafood Restaurant

Jacksonville Beach

Perched in a crook off the Intracoastal, this Jacksonville go-to has built a cult following on the reputation of its fresh-off-the-boat fish sandwiches, with classic grouper a star attraction. Order a basket with fries and watch the boats go by.