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The Bun Lab: Waterfront Burgers and Laid-Back Vibes in Panama City Beach

The Bun Lab, nestled on Panama City Beach’s waterfront, blends a laid-back wharf vibe with a lively juke bar atmosphere, creating an inviting space perfect for meals, drinks, or socializing. Known for its flavorful and inventive menu, The Bun Lab excels with standout smash burgers, Philly cheesesteak rolls, and a sampler of burger sliders that delight the palate. Friendly, attentive staff enhance the experience, making guests feel at home. With darts, pool tables, and a welcoming ambiance, it’s an ideal spot to unwind, catch a game, or enjoy happy hour specials. The Bun Lab combines great food, a warm atmosphere, and playful energy in one memorable visit.

The Bun Lab at a glance

  • Address 9902 S Thomas Dr #13, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, United States
  • Phone +1 850-200-4040
  • Restaurant type Restaurant .

Photos & Gallery

The Bun Lab: Reviews & Ratings

Michael Lange
4

Loved the wharf vibe fused with juke bar environment. Wes, our server, was terrific and a joy to interact with. We world rate a five for the food but there are few options for gluten intolerant folk. That said, there are some killer flavor experiments here to enjoy.

Stacey Hall
5

Bun Lab is such a fun and easygoing spot right on the water! The atmosphere is relaxed with plenty of seating choices inside and out, making it a great place to hang out whether you’re there for a meal, drinks, or just to enjoy the view. I loved how accommodating and friendly the servers and bartenders were — they made the whole experience smooth and welcoming. It feels like the kind of place you can settle into and stay awhile. On top of that, Bun Lab has darts, pool tables, and sports playing, which adds a playful, social vibe to the experience. Between the waterfront setting, good food, and laid-back feel, it’s definitely a spot I’d recommend for both locals and visitors.

Cheryl Obermiller
5

Really good smash burgers! The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Good place to watch football. Wes is an accommodating server. Thank you.

Marylou Cleaveland
5

Food was awesome. Blair was our waitress - so sweet and friendly. Thank you for a great lunch.

Ken Zeimetz
5

Great place and very friendly staff. Sassi was our bartender and she was very attentive and answered all our questions about menu items. Enjoyed the burger slider sampler, onion rings and our appetizer of Philly Cheesesteak rolls. Happy Hour specials 2-6pm were spot on.

robert farfsing
5

Food was great, place was clean. Our host, Jared, was absolutely amazing! He was working up a sweat running back and forth helping all the guests, meanwhile checking in his product delivery and greeting new guests at the door. With all that going on, he was so very friendly and quick to help and check up on us and everyone else seated. I hope the owners see the value in Jared's worth ethic. My wife and I were blown away by him. Awesome job!!! Highly recommend. Great experience.

Megan J
5

Blair was our waitress, she was very polite and friendly. This place is fun and tucked off in such a great Location. The food was amazing fresh and prepared to order. Highly recommend this little place for a stop for a lunch or fun dinner.

Florida Condrons
5

Wes was awesome....talked us "first timers" through the menu and set us up. Good food great little placement. Will be back.

Location

  • The Bun Lab
    The Bun Lab
    9902 S Thomas Dr #13, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, United States Hotline: +1 850-200-4040

Nestled on the waterfront of Panama City Beach, The Bun Lab offers a vibrant fusion of flavors and a laid-back atmosphere that beckons both locals and visitors alike. This spot isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a gathering place where the wharf vibe meets the energy of a juke bar, crafting a unique social experience amplified by darts, pool tables, and live sports on screen.

The food here is a highlight that demands attention. From smash burgers that are juicy and perfectly seasoned to inventive dishes like Philly cheesesteak rolls, each plate is a celebration of bold, satisfying flavors. The burger slider sampler paired with crisp onion rings makes for an ideal entrée, especially when enjoyed during their spot-on happy hour specials. While options for gluten-intolerant guests are limited, the adventurous palate will find plenty of killer flavor experiments to savor.

The staff truly elevate the experience. Servers like Wes and Blair provide friendly, attentive service that complements the easygoing vibe. Bartenders such as Sassi add to the welcoming atmosphere with their knowledge and warmth, ensuring every question about the menu is answered with clarity. Whether you’re there to enjoy a casual lunch, a fun night out, or simply to soak up the water views, The Bun Lab makes you want to settle in and stay awhile.

Overall, The Bun Lab thrives as a cozy yet lively destination where great food meets great company in a relaxed waterfront setting. It’s a place where comfort food gains personality and every visit feels like an invitation to unwind and indulge.

Business Information

  • Service options
    • Delivery
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • Credit cards