Firefly — Restaurant in Panama City Beach

We were recommended to this restaurant by a friend, reviews were good, so we went there on Tuesday 11/26 all excited. Our server Wade was doing good at first however he does not inform us that when you order steak well done there is a probability that there is a high chance that it will be burned. He personally answered all the questions about the menu and gave recommendations. I ordered a bone in Rib eye and first said medium well done, but since my sister ordered the same thing well done and specifically said not burnt, follow suit by my brother -in-law with a 14oz New York steak and said not burnt. I then changed mines to well done and said not burnt. It is best we had said burn them because all 3 steaks came out to us burnt. I tried to eat it but could not because not only it was too burnt but had no taste. All the steaks hand no flavor and burnt. Ribeyes were $65 and New York strip were $79 too much money to waste, so we ask for our server Wade to come. I explained I was not enjoying my food that the steak was burnt, had no flavor or gravy, and dried out…I eat a quarter of it after cutting off some of the burnt parts and I still could not eat it. Wade asked me if preferred to get something else instead and so I ordered a rack of lamb. I thought instead meant he removed the burnt ribeye off the bill and replace it with the lamb chop. He never told us it we would still be charge for the burnt steak. After receiving the bill, we went to the area of the manager and told her our complaint. The manager Daniele became combative, and said it was nothing she could do because it was said on the menu if you ordered well done, they are not responsible for the outcome of a $65 or $79 steak. She has no customer service skills was apprehensible and began to argue with us…especially this was our first time at that establishment… she called me a liar and totally offended me. I did not saw the disclaimer about the well done on the menu, however Wade never explained that to us. He said after explaining how we like our steaks that the chef knows how to cook things right and it will be no problem. We were thankful that the owner LANs was called and responded in a more professional way and safe face and removed it off the billed. Why would we of ordered another entree knowing I would have to pay for the burnt dried out steak with no taste…? Still bewildered on how chef or the restaurant is not responsible for sharing burnt food regardless if you order it well done. I’ve never heard of that. On the positive side my husband and sister totally, enjoyed the crab cakes and my husband enjoyed his rack of lamb. Apparently the food is not consistent not sure I will visit again or recommend them for...

Firefly is a standard that all restaurants of their ilk should aspire to achieve

Last night our church held their Christmas party there.

I have eaten at Firefly before (always divine) I have eaten at some fine restaurants in the US and abroad so I feel I can justify this review

From the moment we arrived the host staff was friendly, engaging and prompt. We were all escorted to a private room. Any employee that I encountered on my way to the room was polite and had a smile on their face. I never felt like we were hindering them from their task or a nuisance

The front of the house employees really do set the tone for an enjoyable meal

Our “party” room was festive and well appointed. Not just some extra area for events that can sometimes feel sterile. Lovely. We weren’t crammed into seats or tables. I would say our party size was close to about 75 people.

It was relaxing and enjoyable at the same time.

We had a 3 course prefixed dinner menu to choose from. It was hard to make a decision. I did go with the filet. Divine.

The food was all delectable. Shout out to “Jersey Jeff” who was our server. He is a gem. Professional, impeccable timing and kind. So kind. Someone at our table had a spill and he handled it with gentle humor and was so understanding and took care of “the situation” so quickly and discreetly that they didn’t have time to feel embarrassed.

Also, I must compliment the support staff. The people that refill drinks and swoop away the dishes as they are finished. Kind, professional and always with a smile.

To the unsung hero’s… the chef and kitchen staff and the final eyes (the expeditor) that ensures each plate that leaves the kitchen is presented at its best. Thank you to a wonderful back of the house department. Your pride and skill was noted in every bite.

Not sure if I encountered a “manager” or not. Cause it wasn’t really even necessary because the people that are Firefly understand the assignment.

I worked in the restaurant industry for several years, several years ago. Large groups aren’t easy to prepare and serve for in a timely manner and up to standard. But, you know what? Firefly did

Not one entree was sent back. Not one complaint was heard. Not one negative comment could be made it was perfection.

So here I am some 15 hours later reliving the wonderful evening I had. Yes, the company of dear people was a major factor but so was the staff, food, and all that makes...

#1 Must Eat!

I have recently replaced my number one restaurant of all times with Firefly. This was the most amazing food I have ever had. The atmosphere of the restaurant is one that is not too busy or overly pretentious but still classy enough to make you want to dress up in your best outfit.

Before Firefly, Ruths Chris was by far my favorite food I have ever had. And it still is in the top 5, but Firefly has taken number one. To start with the food was amazing! The steak was huge and delicious, perfectly cooked to medium rare. I also had their escargot, and though it was my first time trying it, I can now say snails are delicious! Dont think about it and just try it once you won't be disappointed. And the sushi was so fresh tasting, I tried the sashimi salmon, and I dont remember a time of having salmon that tasted so buttery and meaty at the same time. It was delicious and very fresh tasting!

One of my favorite dishes from Ruths Chris was their Lobster Mac&Cheese. However, Firefly again steals the glory. Fireflys LM&C had much hardier cheese and, most importantly, hardier lobster peices. The lobster was cut into peice that were large enough that you not only could taste it, but also they were small enough that it was hard to tell if the next bite would be lobster or pasta. And every time, it was a delightful surprise!

We also had the elk and again delious and something I had never thought to try before. All around the meal was amazing and top class.

Now let's talk about the atmosphere. It's gorgeous inside this building! Looking from the outside, you would never expect the delightful atmosphere when the doors open. As you step in, you are invited with the swanky vibe of the bar front and center. The wait staff are lined up in attention and ready to serve you. Amazing art work line the walls but nothing gaudy or too busy. And then the main dining hall, a large tree, sits in the middle of the room, dazzling with lights weaved through its branches. It is truly a beautiful place.

The wait staff were amazing. I never had to ask to refill my water. It was always full. I never had to call the waiter for another drink he would show up and ask. He even took pictures of us in the tree. And we had an early reservation, and the whole staff greeted us at the door.

This is an amazing restaurant, and I will be back again!!!! Special thanks to the cooks, the waiters and waitress, and everyone who made or...