Pensacola is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines that relate to our vibrant history. Enjoy these opportunities to indulge in some worldly cravings without going across the pond… or ocean!

Experience the posh delight of sweet treats at Olde English Creamery, inside a refurbished 1870’s cottage in Pensacola’s Historic District, directly across the street from Old Christ Church. Enjoy an afternoon on the wooden, baby blue painted porch as you try a selection of light snacks and sip English style teas from delicate earthenware. 

Try it out: Full palace tea with dainty sandwiches, sausage rolls and scones

Restaurant Iron offers a fine dining experience influenced by the delicacies of southern and French cuisine. Sweet and savory pairings are beautifully presented by award-winning Executive Chef Alex McPhail, who strives to bring together the finest flavors of local and international ingredients. 

Try it out: Black garlic butter escargot with house cut truffle fries

The exposed brick arches of Wine Bar are reminiscent of european architecture and the cultural plazas scattered throughout Barcelona and Madrid, Spain. Choose from a generous menu of crisp and zingy white wines to rich and bold reds. Indulge in the chef’s selection of smoked and cured meats and gourmet cheeses with a charcuterie board as the night air blows softly through the quaint alleyway. 

Try it out: Charcuterie board featuring manchego cheese and prosciutto with a Mas La Chevalier Pinot Noir

“Ciao” down on some authentic Italian dishes at V. Paul’s Italian Ristorante on Palafox. Selections of traditional antipasti, premier seafood and specialty wines are finely prepared and presented in true Tuscan style. Join wine enthusiasts at Vino Magnifico, the restaurant’s monthly wine tasting event held on the second Tuesday of each month. 

Try it out: Bruschetta trio with venison cannelloni and gelato dessert 

Travel across the mediterranean with Skopelos and their grecian inspired menu. Award-winning Executive Chef Gus Silivos, who is also a renowned Pensacola Celebrity Chef, has shown his culinary expertise by creating a fine menu of fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat and innovative vegan dishes. The exposed brick and lamp-lit courtyard provide a quaint outdoor dining experience, perfectly capturing an ethos of mediterranean romanticism. 

Try it out: Filo baked spanakopita with a saganaki plate and gyro sandwich

If you head north on Palafox, you can experience the authentic Southeastern Asian cuisine of Khon’s. This narrowly-designed bar and eatery provides an intimate dining experience with a full menu of delicious foreign flavors. Practice your chopstick skills as you enjoy creatively displayed sushi, pineapple panang curry and premier ramen in a sleek, modern setting.

Try it out: Coconut curry soup with ramen pad thai and a specialty saki cocktail

Where will your tastebuds travel to first? Let us know by tagging #DowntownPensacola in your foodie photos! 

[PHOTO: V. PAUL'S ITALIAN RISTORANTE]