I must first say we arrived late Friday night Memorial Day weekend. This however is no excuse for the dinner service we experienced. If they cannot perform at 100%, either slow it down or close it. There is no need to disappoint anyone.
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It is rare I experience prices like I found here. When I do, it is at a five star restaurant. (Welcome to Destin) This was not my experience at the Marlin.
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The wine list is extensive and by my standards, over priced. Our carpaccio appetizer came with two strips of steak, barely enough to taste. Steaks were supposed to be prime, and are priced above $36 an entree. Like a steak house you must also purchase your sides.
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My wife's steak, the filet, tasted like a typical choice cut.. My bone in veal chop was called porterhouse. They left the fascia covering on the meat and the piece was overly fatty. I felt there was no excuse for either of these "problems". To be fair, the waiter offered to take it back. I did not send it back because I had no confidence that the problems I was experiencing could be improved on. Dessert, the bread pudding, was catering or cafeteria quality (my opinion). My wife loved it.
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The bottom line is that when you are charging big league prices, you need to step up to the plate. There should be no reason for excuses.
If you are staying in Sandestin and need a good meal and don't mind paying exorbitant prices with an annoying resort fee thrown in to boot, this is a convenient meal. Keep in mind, at least three of the restaurants on the wharf have a nearly identical wine list and similar entree items. Go to the restaurant less crowded.