Best 30A Restaurants to Enjoy In 2020

Updated article of Best 30A Restaurants In 2022

The coronavirus pandemic has made the first few months of 2020 challenging for 30A restaurants, given their reliance on tourism. Nevertheless, here are the best 30A restaurants to enjoy in 2020.

Editors note: Florida is OPEN, and all restaurants and bars operate at total capacity. We’ve made an effort to confirm that each of the restaurants listed is still operating. If you have any updated information, please share it with us immediately to update this article. Chow!

Florida’s 30A corridor offers a variety of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual, food-truck options. The area’s explosive growth, warm climate, and white-sand beaches not only attract millions of tourists each year but some of the country’s most innovative chefs. Compared to previous years, be prepared for limited menu options.

The restaurants and bars are listed by location, starting on the east side of 30A and moving west.

Inlet Beach

Shades Bar and Grill, 10952 Hwy 30A, Daily, 11 am-11 pm (850) 231-9410

Think of this casual spot as a combination of a Bennigan’s, Applebee’s, and your local pub. The food is good and they offer a large selection of sandwiches, burgers, wings, and lots of fried and grilled seafood options. Shades has a vast selection of beer along with 17 TVs, making this a great place to watch your favorite team (assuming sports will resume soon). Until further notification, outdoor seating is available and indoor seating at 25% capacity. Be prepared for long waits at night during peak season as it’s a popular place to take the kids. The ownership group of Shades also operates Pescado and Shaka.

Cuvee 30A, 12805 Hwy 98, Mon-Sat (seasonal), 5:00-10 p.m., (850) 909-0111

Celebrity Chef Tim Creehan has brought his signature dishes to the Inlet Beach area. Located in the 30A Avenue center at the intersection of Hwy 98 and 30a, some popular items include Amy Grant’s Seared Tuna Rare and Vince Gill’s Pecan Crusted Grouper. The food is excellent and even better is many locals (including me) consider it the area’s best happy hour from 5–7 pm daily. There’s also a nice selection of food such as flatbread pizzas at happy hour prices. The restaurant also has an outstanding wine list and lots of live music in the bar area. Outdoor seating is available, too.

Amici 30A Italian Kitchen, 12805 Hwy 98 E, Daily, 11 am- 9 pm (850) 909-0444

One of 30A’s newest spots, this family-owned restaurant specializes in Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a brick oven. Homemade pasta and larger plates are also available. Plenty of seating inside and out, small plates, and a full bar are available. The ownership group of this restaurant also owns Amigos 30A.

Big Bad Breakfast, 10711 E Hwy 30A, Daily, 7 am-2:30 pm (850) 532-6952

Big, tremendous, and breakfast sum up this spot created by John Currence, the James Beard award-winning, Oxford, MS chef is known for City Grocery, Boure, and the Snack Bar. You’ll find a mix of fresh Gulf seafood, homemade biscuits, and locally roasted coffee on the menu. To-go and poolside menus are also available.

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Shaka Sushi and Noodle Bar, 13625 U.S. Highway 98, Open Daily 4 pm-9 pm (850) 909-0030

This Asian bistro opened in April of 2019. Chefs James Sargent and Ken Duenas have conspired to create an adventurous menu of rolls and other small-plate entrees. Only 25% of their inside seating is available to you may want to consider carry-out of arriving early.

Rosemary Beach

Edward’s Fine Food & Wine, 66 Main Street, Tuesday-Sunday, 5 pm – 9:30 pm

One of my favorites, Edward’s assumed the location of the former wine bar in Rosemary Beach and quickly established itself as one of the best restaurants along 30A. Now part of the Spell Restaurant Group, both small plates and entrees (Yellow Fin Tuna) are excellent, and live music is featured most evenings. Children are welcome, but the better idea is to feed them at Cowgirl Kitchen and let them play on the green nearby. Dine in the courtyard, if possible. FYI, Edward’s doesn’t accept reservations, so arrive early, especially on crowded weekends/holidays. And, until further notice, they are operating at 50% capacity.  

La Crema Tapas & Chocolate, 38 Main Street, Daily, 11 am-9 pm (850) 534-3004

A small and fashionable place to people-watch along the community’s main street. Plates are small, and the Chocolate Dipped Bacon is a must-order. Reservations are not accepted, so place your name on the list and enjoy the town square until seated. Online ordering is encouraged. (FYI, Edward’s, La Crema, George’s at Alys Beach, Grits & Grind and La Cocina are owned by the Spell Restaurant Group, the same Memphis family that owns Brookhaven Pub)

Restaurant Paradis, 82 South Barrett Square, Daily, 5 pm-10 pm, Bar until midnight (850) 534-0400

A gorgeous fine dining establishment, Paradis has a fantastic bar with excellent outdoor seating within view of Town Square and 30A. It’s a favorite of locals around happy hour. If you’re hungry between 5 and 5:45 each evening, you’ll find the prices to be a bit less expensive. There is better cuisine along 30A, but the atmosphere is friendly. Consider the bar for drinks before or after dining at another establishment. Reservations are recommended. 

Cowgirl Kitchen, 54 Main Street, Rosemary Beach, Daily, 8 am-9 pm (850) 213-0058

One of my favs, mainly because my kids have spent so much time and money there. Nikki, the owner, has done an excellent job delivering beach favorites such as mac & cheese and the Drunken Cowgirl Tacos. Great place to feed the kids breakfast, lunch, and supper and to grab a few beers on the way to the beach. Also in Seagrove Beach. Another business under the same umbrella is Feed & Supply, located across the street from Cowgirl Kitchen in Rosemary Beach. FYI, if you’re looking to purchase beer to take down to the beach, they are much cheaper at Feed & Supply. A 12oz. beer cost over $8 at Cowgirl, and less than $5 across the street.  

Havana Beach Bar and Grill, 63 Main Street, Daily, 8 am-11 pm

Located within The Pearl Hotel, this upscale restaurant has added a new dimension to the community. A stylish venue, outdoor seating is available, but the interior is warm and inviting. Belly up to the hand-carved mahogany bar for a pre-dinner cocktail. Their smoked Old Fashioned cocktail is a specialty. The rooftop lounge is also an excellent place to start or end the evening. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily.

The Summer Kitchen Cafe, 78 Main Street, Daily, 7:30 am-9 pm (3 pm on Monday & Tuesday) (850) 213-0521

One of the original restaurants in Rosemary Beach. Don’t look for this restaurant on the north side of 30A because they’ve relocated close to the beach. A good place to find breakfast or lunch, but subpar for a fine dining experience after five. They’ve started serving local beers and are the closest spot to the water in Rosemary Beach.

Amavida Coffee & Tea, 104 N. Barrett Square, 1A, Daily, 6:30 am – 6:00 pm (850) 213-1965

A local, family-owned business with another location in Seaside. A great selection of coffee, and it’s roasted just a few miles away. They also serve pastries bread and craft beer. The best cafe to work (and write) along 30A and the wi-fi are excellent. If you’re a tree-hugger and into organic everything, then this is your place. They also have locations in Seaside and Miramar Beach.

Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar, 74 Town Hall Road, Daily, 4 pm – 10 pm, Sunday 10 am – 10 pm (850) 213-4600

Atop the Orleans building in Rosemary Beach, this amazing seafood grill and bar offers stunning views of the gulf and sunsets. Designed by Smith Hanes of Atlanta, the restaurant’s coastal colors compliment the town and capture the unique charm of this community. Chef Ken Duenas, well-known along 30A for his culinary skills, should create some fantastic dishes. Seating is at a premium, so arrive early or make reservations. You must be 18+ to enter, except for Sunday Brunch.

Seacrest Beach

Grits & Grind, 10343 E Hwy 30A, Daily, 8 am- 11 am (850) 231-4021

A new breakfast spot owned and operated by the Spell Restaurant Group. Located just west of LaCocina, it’s quickly become a hotspot for breakfast on 30A. The energy behind the restaurant comes from the style of basketball played by Tony Allen, formerly of the Memphis Grizzlies, the hometown of the ownership group. Come ready to eat your fill of omelets, waffles, and other breakfast delights.

Seacrest Sundries, 10343 Hwy 30A, Daily, 8 am-5 pm (850) 588-4860

A cozy little market. If you wake up early, head down and grab a cup of coffee while you check email, read the news on your iPad, or catch local events on their TVs. Wet Your Whistle coffee is in the back of this place. Kevin makes the best coffee on the east side of 30a as he freshly grinds each cup. Nice place for a quick lunch and snacks for the kids or to pick up basic necessities for your rental unit.

Lola Coastal Italian, 10343 Hwy 30A, Daily, 5 pm – 10 pm, (850) 262-7941

Renowned Atlanta Chef Tom Catherall is bringing the true Italian pizza experience to 30A. His latest project is just opening and I had the honor of dining there on its first evening. All the pizza crust is made fresh Daily and every ingredient used is authentic Italian. The pizza is cooked to order in wood ovens and get this… there’s no wait staff. You order at the front desk, including a nice selection of wines by the glass, get a number and your pizza and/or pasta dishes are delivered to your table. This is a must-try eatery if you’re staying on the east side of 30A. Inside and outside dining is available, as well as a full bar. Happy Hour daily between 3–5 pm. 

La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar 10343 Hwy 30A, Daily, 11 am- 9 pm (850) 231-4021

Locals say this is the best Tex-Mex along 30A, however, if you’re from Texas it won’t compare to Lone Star spots. Dishes are prepared from scratch. Nestled between Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach, the convenience makes it a worthwhile location. Word is the margaritas are great, but we recommend you form your own opinion!  

Beach & Brew On 30A 10343 Hwy 30A, Thursday – Sunday, 2 pm – 7 pm (temporary hours) (850) 534-0844

You can get a beer almost anywhere on 30A, but this spot is dedicated to serving unique craft beer. What you can’t get is food, so come thirsty. Dogs and kids are welcome, as long as both are kept on a short leash.

Pizza by the Sea 10343 Hwy 30A, Wednesday – Sunday, 11 am – 9 pm (850) 534-0044

With locations in Watercolor, Miramar Beach, and Gulf Place, they specialize in thin crust pizza and bake their dough fresh each day, using fresh ingredients. Sandwiches, salads, and beer are also available. Good pizza for the kids, but there is better gourmet pizza nearby.

Creative Crepes 10343 E Hwy 30A, Daily, 8:30 am – 9 pm (850) 399-4009

A breakfast spot in Seacrest Beach featuring fresh crepes, coffee, and other breakfast items. The menu and the space are small so I would suggest calling ahead and placing your order to go.

Alys Beach

Caliza Restaurant, 23 Nonesuch Way, Tuesday-Saturday, 5:30–9:30 pm (850) 213-5700

An upscale restaurant located beside the property’s fabulous pool, they feature contemporary American cuisine served al fresco. It’s not somewhere I would take children, so plan on a romantic dinner for two or an all-adult night out. Due to coronavirus concerns, only four people are allowed per table. Reservations via Open Table are strongly recommended. 

George’s at Alys Beach, 30 Castle Harbour, Mon-Sat, 11 am-3 pm, 5–9 pm (850) 641-0017

A favorite among locals and tourists alike, they feature two menus; a “Behave” for those eating healthy and a “Misbehave” for when calories at the beach don’t count. Located on the east side of Alys Beach, you can’t miss the lovely cottage along 30A. They’ve recently added a beautiful viewing deck where you can have a cocktail and take in the coastline while you wait.

Watersound 

The Hub, 7000 Hwy 30A, Watersound,  (Multiple Food & Drink Options), Daily 11 am- 10 pm.

I stumbled onto this place in December of 2017. The Hub (a venue comprised of shops and food stations) consists of a large open area with a stage and large screen great for watching big games. Various shops line the front of the center. The open fire pits provide a toasty atmosphere on chilly beach nights. If you have young kids in tow, it’s a nice place to let them run around while the adults chat.  

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Bruno’s Pizza, 6652 Hwy 30A East, Daily, 11 am- 10 pm (850) 231-1452

This 30A tradition moved to Watersound in 2017. The lunch buffet is always a hit and a great place for the kids. The delivery area is limited, but you can call ahead and pick up anytime. Voted 30A’s best pizza for 21 years.

Editors Note: The traffic on 30a between Seagrove and Watercolor can be bumper-to-bumper. If you are traveling from somewhere outside of that area, I highly recommend you allow extra time to travel and especially park. My party traveled from Rosemary Beach to Seaside and once we hit Seagrove, it took almost twenty minutes to park.

Seagrove 

Café Thirty-A, 3899 Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach, Daily, 4:30 pm -10 pm (850) 231-2166

Hands down, one of the area’s best and most well-known restaurants as it’s routinely voted a hotspot for fine dining. Get the “deal of the day” by arriving between 4:30–6 pm as you can get a two-for-one on entrees. Reservations are highly recommended, and they’re open for dinner only. I understand it’s a favorite of Alabama Coach Nick Saban. Here is a recent review from 30aeats.

Surfing Deer, 2742 Hwy 30A, Open Daily, Monday-Saturday, 5 pm – 9 pm (850) 213-4200

The original owners of Geoge’s at Alys Beach, Ann & George Hartley are building on their reputation as 30A restaurant operators, and they may have outdone themselves with this jewel of a dining establishment. The restaurant is packed most evenings, so call ahead for reservations. The food at the bar is excellent and wonderful for “people watching.”

Old Florida Fish House, 33 Heron’s Watch Way, Daily, 11 am-10 pm (850) 534-3045

This mainstay venue is known for its sushi and live music. Once a popular spot with the locals, it has lost some luster but overall a nice place to enjoy the band after dinner. Locals enjoy the sushi.  

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Seagrove Village Market Café, 2976 S. Hwy 395, Monday-Saturday, 10:30 am-8:30 pm, Sunday Brunch until 2:30 pm, (850) 231-5736

Thought to be one of the oldest businesses along 30A. Garden & Gun says the Grouper Sandwich is a “must eat” before you die. Owned and operated by the Hartley Restaurant Group, which owns Surfing Deer.

Buddy’s Seafood Market, 5231 E Hwy 30A, Daily 10 am – 6 pm (850) 213-3684

This isn’t a dine-in restaurant, but if you’re looking for the freshest seafood to prepare at your rental unit or home, Buddy’s is the best. Snow Crab, shrimp, scallops, king crab, and lobster are available. Sides such as gumbo, corn, potatoes, and desserts are also sold. If you’re cooking in one evening, this is the place.

The Perfect Pig, 4281 E Hwy 30A, Daily 8 am – 9 pm (850) 213-0701

This place specializes in fresh seafood items for dinner and pulled pork for lunch. They open early for breakfast too! Two additional locations are in Watercolor and Gulf Place. Small and large plates are served at dinner, and it’s a good place to take the kids.

Seaside

The Great Southern Café, 88 Central Square, Seaside, Daily, 11 am-9 pm (850) 231-7327

Excellent, superb, outstanding; is there anything left to say? Chef Jim Shirley is one of the best in the Panhandle. I would recommend the Grits A Ya Ya, the Balsamic Salmon, and the Mac & Cheese with bacon & shrimp. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily. Dine-in is now online reservation only.  

Bud & Alley’s, 2235 Hwy 30A, Daily, 8 am until late (850) 231-5900

Named after the dog of Seaside’s founder and another of the owner’s cats, the restaurant/bar was founded in the late 1980s by two surfing buddies. A favorite with locals and visitors alike, it’s an eccentric venue to enjoy a beachy frozen drink or a beer and sandwich while gazing at the gulf. The rooftop bar is extremely popular, so make this spot a must-do if you’re new to 30A. They also operate separate Taco and Pizza bars. Check out their webcam views of the beach here. 

Watercolor

Fish Out of Water, Watercolor, Tuesday – Saturday, 5:30–9 pm

Nice upscale dining with a superb gulf view. A recipient of Forbes Travel Guide 4-star rating and AAA 4-diamond award. One of the area’s hottest spots for fine dining. Corporate Executive Chef Todd Rogers and his culinary team provide guests with an unforgettable experience through a menu highlighted by fresh local fish and meats infused with Southern flavor.

Wine Bar 1735 E Hwy 30A, Daily 11 am – 9 pm, (850) 231-1323

Part wine shop and part restaurant. They have an excellent selection of wine, cheese, and other appetizers. The dining area offers table seating and a bar for lunch and dinner. However, the best part is its outdoor patio. When the weather cooperates, it’s a great place to people-watch in Watercolor. It seems to be a favorite hangout for 30a realtors.

Grayton Beach

Red Bar, 70 Hotz Avenue, Daily, 11 am – 3 pm, 4:30 pm – 10 pm (850) 231-1008

Effective July 16, the new Red Bar is NOW OPEN! Unfortunately, the Red Bar suffered a devasting fire in February of 2019 and is in the process of rebuilding. Historically this venue featured some of the best bar food and live music in the Florida Panhandle. Drop by and support the owners and staff and let us know about your experience. BTW, the bathrooms are much larger!

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Chiringo, 63 Hotz Ave., Wednesday – Sunday, Noon -7 pm (850) 534-4449

The definition of the name means a small enterprise, usually a bar selling drinks and tapas. That’s what it is. Good beach food such as burgers and fried chicken and seafood baskets. A cool vibe and hey, Jenny, the manager is a tennis player, so this must be a cool place! Plenty of organic stuff for you urban hippies and a large beer selection. Reservations are usually not accepted, but during the coronavirus pandemic, they are highly recommended. Open seven days a week from 11 to 11.

AJ’s 63 Defuniak St. Daily 11 am – until (850) 231-4102

Originally a Destin location, AJ’s now has four locations including this one in Grayton Beach. Formerly known as Pandora’s, AJ’s transformed this spot into a local eatery. Outstanding po-boy sandwiches and a nice spot for live music. Their social media presence is lacking so confirm details before ordering or going.  

Hurricane Oyster Bar, 37 Logan Lane, Daily, 11 am-10 pm

Described by locals as a “great hang out bar.” A good happy hour with lots of flatscreen TVs to watch the game. Shrimp, tacos, oysters, and great bar food. Cash or check only!

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Crackings, 51 Uptown Grayton Circle, Tuesday-Sunday, 7:30 am-2 pm

Formerly known as Another Broken Egg. If you’re hungry for breakfast on the west side of 30A, it’s hard to find a better traditional breakfast. Consistently voted as “a best breakfast spot,” there are two other locations in Baytowne Wharf and Destin. A rapidly expanding southeast chain. Expect to wait if you arrive after 9 am. The eggs benedict are to die for, so order some.

Grayton Seafood Co., 50 Uptown Grayton Circle, Wednesday-Sunday, 11 am-9 pm

Local, friendly, and seafood pretty much sum up this place — outstanding casual, beach dining known for their Sunday brunch.

Pickle Factory, 38 Clayton Lane, Tuesday-Sunday, 4 until close

True to the area, this place is something you would discover in Thailand, described by locals as “laid back.” You can sit at the bar and watch your pizza while it’s being made while chatting about the prices of homes with a local realtor. Enjoy the Hookah lounge before you leave.

Santa Rosa Beach

Borago, 80 E Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, Daily, 5 pm-9 pm (850) 213-4156

Another award-winning, local favorite. Hearty Italian food is their forte and they have relocated to their original location. The spot has lost some of its appeal recently, mainly due to the increased competition along 30A. However, it remains a favorite of locals. Popular items are the three meat Bolognese and the penne with hot Italian sausage. Their wine list is extensive.  

Café Tango, 14 Viki Street, Santa Rosa Beach, Tuesday-Saturday, 5 – 9 pm

Some say this is one of 30A’s best-kept secrets. Located in one of the oldest cottages in the area, it’s owned by a father-son team known for creating European-inspired dishes with Spanish and Mediterranean flavors. Very intimate environment. An excellent wine list. Seatings at 5, 5:30, 7 & 7:30.

Black Bear Bread Co., 26 Logan Lane, Unit G, Santa Rosa Beach, Monday – Saturday, 7 am – 3 pm, Sunday, 8 am – 3 pm (850) 213-4528

Combination bakery and coffee shop, this spot is a new addition to 30A. Seasonal produce, combined with freshly baked bread with added protein options, makes this a European breakfast or lunch destination. Beer and wine are also available. To-go orders only until further notice. 

Louis Louis, 35 Mussett Bayou Rd., Daily, 5 pm-9 pm

A spin-off of the Red Bar, they try and maintain the “hippie” culture with some added flair. A favorite for locals, check out their beer list. Much to the tourist dismay, they do accept plastic for payment.

Blue Mabel, 2260 W Hwy 30A, Daily (Closed Tuesdays), 11 am – 8 pm (850) 744-0040

This is another venture by Cowgirl Kitchen owner, Nikki Nickerson. Anything from salads and burgers, to gulf shrimp and steak, is offered. Think of this spot as a “dressed up Cowgirl Kitchen.” Brunch is offered and a 20 percent discount is given to locals for lunch and dinner.

Don Pedros Mexican Restaurant, 4942 W Hwy 98, Monday – Saturday, 7 am – 9 pm, Sunday, 7 am – 2 pm (850) 267-0009

Why is this Mexican restaurant located in a strip mall on Highway 98 on this list? Because it’s a favorite of 30a locals, especially for breakfast. Daily specials are offered for lunch and dinner. Their egg dishes and omelets are excellent. Don’t skip the pancakes either!

Vue on 30A, 4801 W Hwy 30A, Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am-2 pm & 5 pm-9 pm, Sunday brunch (850) 267-2305

The signature restaurant of Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club, it was voted “Best Waterfront Dining” by Florida Travel + Life Magazine. Online reservations are not being accepted at this time, so call the number above to reserve your table.

Stinky’s Fish Camp, 5960 W Hwy 30a, Daily 11 am – 10 pm, (850) 267-3053

Located on the west side of 30a, Stinky’s is a favorite of locals and tourists. The seafood is fresh and their seafood bar has long been a favorite. However, I don’t know when we’ll see open buffets again. Oysters and tacos, as well as other seafood specialties, are popular.

Blue Mountain Beach

Local Catch Bar & Grill, 3711 W Hwy 30A, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

A small seafood bar with great food. Shrimp and grits and crab cakes are favorites.

Basmati’s Asian Cuisine, 3295 W Hwy 30A, Lunch Monday- Friday, 11 am – 2:30 pm, Dinner Nightly 5–10 pm (850) 267- 3028

A Blue Mountain institution for years, they’re known for their delicious and creative Asian cuisine and sushi. The Basmati’s candle-lit porch is popular. Take out only for lunch, and no take out is available for dinner.

Our search for the best 30A restaurants won’t leave you hungry, and my bet is you’ll come back and try others on your next trip. Also, let us know if there are any new additions you feel should be added to our list.