Florida Grouper Sandwich

The Gulf Coast Classic

No Florida beach trip is complete without a grouper sandwich. This beloved dish features a flaky, mild grouper fillet—fried, grilled, or blackened—served on a soft bun with crisp lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce. It’s a staple at waterfront shacks and upscale restaurants alike, capturing the laid-back spirit of the Sunshine State.

Grouper Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 grouper fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 4 sandwich buns
• Lettuce, tomato, and onion slices
• Tartar sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fillets: Pat the grouper dry. Season with salt, pepper, and Old Bay.

2. Bread the fish: Dredge each fillet in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko.

3. Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry fillets 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

4. Assemble: Place fillets on buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tartar sauce.

5. Serve: Enjoy hot, preferably with a view of the Gulf!

Variations

• Grill or blacken the fillets for a lighter version.
• Add pickles or spicy remoulade for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fries, coleslaw, and a cold beer or lemonade.