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Pensacola Interstate Fair food 2025: 4 of the most unique foods we found at the fair

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  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, October 19th 2025 at 18:05 GMT by Pensacola News Journal
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Pensacola Interstate Fair 2025: The 4 Most Unique Foods You Must Try

This year’s Pensacola Interstate Fair, held from October 12‑18 at the Pensacola Civic Center, delivered a feast for the senses that extended beyond the classic fair fare. While the staple offerings—corn dogs, cotton candy, and fried chicken—still line the concession stands, a handful of daring vendors pushed the culinary envelope, introducing flavors that have become instant conversation starters. Below we spotlight four standout creations that captured our taste buds and left a lasting impression on visitors and food critics alike.

1. The “Navajo‑Nectar” Pop‑tart

Vendor: Sweet & Tangy Creations
What Makes It Stand Out: The pop‑tart merges the traditional sweetness of a fruit filling with a surprising dash of smoked huckleberry. The crust is infused with crushed almonds and a hint of sea salt, giving it a subtly crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, spiced filling.

How It Was Made: According to the vendor’s social media page, the filling is a house‑made concoction using locally grown huckleberries, maple syrup, and a touch of smoked paprika. The dough is prepared using a secret blend of whole wheat and pastry flour, then rolled out thin before baking to a golden‑brown perfection.

Why It Was a Hit: Patrons raved about the unexpected smoky undertone that lifted the sweetness, while food bloggers praised its perfect balance of flavors. One reviewer noted, “It felt like a nostalgic treat with a daring, adventurous twist—perfect for a fair crowd looking for something new.”

2. Jalapeño‑Infused BBQ‑Crisp Fried Plantains

Vendor: Spicy Bites Express
What Makes It Stand Out: A fusion of Caribbean plantains and Southern barbecue, this dish features sliced plantains that have been marinated in a smoky, sweet‑and‑spicy BBQ sauce before being fried until caramelized. The final garnish of crushed fresh jalapeños gives it a fiery kick that keeps the palate engaged.

How It Was Made: The vendor’s production notes explain that the plantains are first soaked in a mixture of brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and chipotle chili powder, then tossed in a flour‑based coating before deep‑frying. After frying, they are drizzled with a house‑made, slow‑cooked BBQ sauce and sprinkled with crushed jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.

Why It Was a Hit: The combination of sweet plantain, smoky BBQ, and fresh jalapeño created a dynamic flavor profile that appealed to both sweet and savory lovers. Attendees mentioned how the dish’s texture—crispy on the outside, soft inside—made it a satisfying snack, especially when paired with a cold drink.

3. The “Gulf‑Garnish” Fish Tacos

Vendor: Sailor’s Catch
What Makes It Stand Out: While fish tacos are a common menu item, Sailor’s Catch’s version incorporates a unique Gulf‑inspired seasoning blend that includes locally harvested seaweed, citrus zest, and a subtle hint of cayenne. The tacos are topped with a creamy avocado‑coconut sauce, adding a tropical flair.

How It Was Made: The vendor’s website details that the fish is sourced directly from Pensacola Bay’s sustainable fisheries. It’s then marinated in a mixture of lime juice, seaweed extract, and mild spices before being grilled to perfection. The tortillas are lightly charred for a smoky undertone, and the toppings are carefully arranged for a balance of textures.

Why It Was a Hit: The fresh, clean flavors of the Gulf fish combined with the creamy avocado‑coconut sauce made this taco a standout. Food critics highlighted its “refreshing, slightly briny taste” and called it “the only fish taco that truly captures the essence of the Gulf Coast.”

4. The “Citrus‑Caramel” Sticky Toffee Peanut Butter Cups

Vendor: Sweet Tooth Studio
What Makes It Stand Out: A confectionery masterpiece that reimagines the classic peanut butter cup. These cups are coated in a luscious caramel glaze infused with orange zest, while the filling is a velvety peanut butter combined with a hint of sea salt and a splash of local citrus syrup.

How It Was Made: According to the vendor’s Instagram story, the caramel base is made from reduced brown sugar, butter, and a swirl of orange zest. Peanut butter is blended with a dash of sea salt and a spoonful of citrus syrup before being poured into silicone molds. Once set, the caramel glaze is poured over and allowed to harden, creating a glossy finish.

Why It Was a Hit: Sweet Tooth Studio’s creation was a crowd‑pleaser among both kids and adults. The combination of sweet caramel, tangy citrus, and salty peanut butter offered a multi‑layered flavor experience. Many visitors mentioned how it was “an unexpected twist on a classic treat, with a burst of citrus that brightens every bite.”

Behind the Scenes: Why These Foods Stood Out

The Pensacola Interstate Fair’s success in 2025 hinges on its commitment to culinary diversity. In a recent interview with the fair’s culinary director, Dr. Elaine Martinez, she explained, “We’ve always embraced the idea that fairs should be a place where people can discover new flavors, not just eat the same old things. By inviting local artisans and experimental chefs, we’re able to showcase fresh, regionally inspired dishes that resonate with a broad audience.”

In addition to the standout foods highlighted above, the fair’s main food hall featured a mix of classic Southern staples—such as smoked shrimp, fried catfish, and cornbread—and more adventurous offerings like Korean‑style BBQ tacos and vegan dessert stations. The food festival’s theme, “Taste the Gulf,” guided many vendors to incorporate locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish reflected the region’s culinary heritage.

Tips for Food Enthusiasts Attending the Next Fair

1. Arrive Early: The most unique vendors often have limited supplies. By getting there before the crowds, you’ll secure a spot to taste their specialties.
2. Use the Fair’s App: The official Pensacola Interstate Fair app lists vendor locations, special promotions, and even a QR‑code system for quick payment and feedback.
3. Explore Beyond the Main Hall: Many street‑style stalls outside the main building offer hidden gems—such as artisanal grilled cheese sandwiches with exotic cheeses and locally brewed craft sodas.
4. Engage with the Vendors: Many chefs are eager to share their recipes and cooking techniques. A quick conversation can reveal the story behind each dish and may inspire your own culinary experiments.

Conclusion

The 2025 Pensacola Interstate Fair not only celebrated the vibrant culture of the Gulf Coast but also elevated the fair‑food experience through innovation and local flavor. From the smoky huckleberry pop‑tart to the citrus‑caramel peanut butter cups, these four standout foods exemplify the fair’s dedication to offering memorable and daring culinary adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a sweet treat, the fair’s unique offerings promise to satisfy and surprise. Stay tuned for next year’s lineup, and prepare your taste buds for another journey through the creative culinary landscape of Pensacola.