Best 30A Restaurants to Enjoy In 2021

Best 30A Restaurants In 2022 updated version.

f you’re looking for the best 30A restaurants to enjoy in 2021, you’ve come to the right place. The eateries and watering holes along Florida’s scenic panhandle won’t disappoint.

Editors note: Florida is OPEN and all restaurants and bars are operating at capacity. You’re welcome! Also, it’s recommended that you confirm a restaurant’s hours during winter months as some close for maintenance and employee vacations. 

We’ve made an effort to confirm that each of the restaurants listed is operating. If you have any information, please share it with us immediately so we can 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. It’s also recommended to call ahead for reservations as seating may be limited due to large crowds visiting the 30a area.

Personal/Private Chef

Before we dive into 30a restaurants, you might consider hiring your own chef. An increasingly popular option along the Emerald Coast is hiring a private chef to prepare a multi-course meal in the comfort of your vacation home or rental unit. If you think only the ultra-wealthy can afford a private chef, then you’re in for a treat.

Take It Personal Chef Service, Chef Josh Champion, (850) 704-9173, by advance appointment only

What about a four-course meal, all prepared while you enjoy the beach or pool, for about $115 per person (up to 25 people)? The final cost depends on the number of people and the type of food. Think about it; a four-course meal at most any 30a establishments will likely reach or exceed a hundred bucks per person.

I recorded a Southern Americana podcast episode with Chef Josh Champion of Take It Personal Chef Service in March of this year and was blown away by his creativity. His dishes are amazing and you cannot a better per person value most anywhere. They’ve handled everything from bachelorette parties to 90th birthday celebrations to beach bonfires. Trust me, you’ll love the food, service, and having a clean kitchen. (FYI, Chef Josh is also a musician and songwriter, so ask him about his musical ability while he serves you.) 

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

Inlet Beach

Destin Ice Market 30A Crossings at Inlet Beach, 13063 Hwy 98 East, Daily, 9 am – 6 pm, (850) 502-4100

Their location near the intersection of Hwy 98 & 30a makes it a convenient spot to pick up fresh seafood, wine, and other items for an evening cooking at home. Pam & Tim Wellborn opened this location in 2016 and Chef Alan Baltazar prepares an assortment of fresh seafood items to go. Fresh Gulf shrimp, steaks, wine, and lots of sides are available. A favorite place for many of 30a’s chefs and locals. Be prepared for high prices too. Also, I wouldn’t recommend purchasing liquor or spirits here. Their prices are outrageous, even for 30a standards. Plus, their staff isn’t versed in wines and spirits.

The Donut Hole 12983 Hwy 98, Daily 6 am-10 pm (850)267-323

Arguably the best donut on 30a, their new location at the intersection of Hwy 98 & 30a is convenient and usually packed. A wide variety of donuts and breakfast fare is their forte.

Effin Egg 13123 E. Emerald Coast Pkwy, Tuesday – Saturday, 7:30 am – 1:30 pm, (850) 213-3094

Only eggs, all day long. The menu includes egg sandwiches, egg bowls, and egg tacos. Salad wraps are also available in place of bread.

Shades Bar and Grill 10952 Hwy 30A, Daily, 11 am-1 am (850) 231-9410

Think of this casual spot as a combination of Bennigan’s, Applebee’s, and your local pub. And, more upscale. 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). 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. *Take out fee & service gratuity added to all carry-out orders. 

Cuvee 30A 12805 Hwy 98, Mon-Sat (seasonal), 4:30-9:30 p.m., (850) 909-0111, (Closed Dec. 25 & Jan. 1-19)

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 p.m. 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.

30a Burger 12805 Hwy 98, Daily 11 am – 9 pm, (850) 909-0600

Another creation of Chef Tim Creehan and located behind Cuvee 30a, this burger joint serves up a hearty selection of burgers and fries. Nice outdoor seating area to people-watch in 30 Avenue center. Delivery through DoorDash. 

Amici 30A Italian Kitchen 12805 Hwy 98 E, Daily, 11 am- 10 pm (850) 909-0555

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. Delivery through DoorDash. 

Amigos 30A 12805 Hwy 98E, Daily, 11 am – 9 pm, (850) 909-0444

The south-of-the-border counterpart to their Italian sibling, this Mexican-theme eatery is across the breezeway from Amici 30A. The bar is a favorite of locals and the outdoor bar seating makes people-watching fun.

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. Located at The Pointe, where 30a and Hwy 98 intersect, and just east of the Rosemary Beach tennis courts. 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. *Take out fee & service gratuity added to all carry-out orders.  

Rosemary Beach

Edward’s Fine Food & Wine 66 Main Street, Wednesday-Sunday, 11 am – 3 pm, Sunday-Wednesday, 5 to 8 pm, Thursday-Saturday, 5-9 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. Daily 2-for-1 specials on select wines from 5-6 pm.  

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. Great Empanada’s too! Online ordering is encouraged but disabled when they’re busy. Excellent choice for Sunday brunch.  

Restaurant Paradis 82 South Barrett Square, Daily, 5 pm-9:30 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. In past years I haven’t been overly impressed with their entrees, however, I’m going to give it another shot once they chill out. My friends say their steak dishes are excellent. Consider the bar for drinks before or after dining at another establishment. Reservations only. Much more strict with dining protocols than other neighboring establishments. 

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

This spot was one of my family’s favs for years, but recently this location has lost its luster with the locals and tourists alike.  A good cleaning would help. Their beach favorites such as mac & cheese and the Drunken Cowgirl Tacos have always been good. 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-2 pm & 5 – 9 pm, Bar Daily 11 am – 2 pm & 4 – 10 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 served daily. For heaven’s sake, unless you’re seated on the green sofa in the backroom, don’t sit on it or their management will come unglued (reserved for parties of 6 or more). If you have any issues, just ask for Katrena, the evening hostess. She’s amazing and will use her “Southern Charm” to make you feel at home. See Kyle or Sere at the main bar downstairs. 

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. Happy hour from 4 – 6 pm Wednesday to Sunday. 

Cork & Barrel 104 N. Barrett Square, Daily, 10 am – 9 pm.

The eastern side of 30a needed an upscale wine and liquor retailer, and now they have one. An outstanding selection of fine wines and bourbons, plus other hard-to-find spirits. Ask for Tyler, Paul, Peter and they’ll give you the celebrity treatment.

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 and 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 – 10:30 pm, Sunday 9:45 am – 10:30 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 and they also opened a bar downstairs, The Courtyard at Pescado. The patio bar is a nice addition and is open daily from 5-10:30 p.m., with live music until 9:30 pm each evening. Must be 18 or older to visit the courtyard bar. 

Highpointe

Crabby Steve’s Bar & Gulfside Restaurant 10254 E Hwy 30A, Daily, 11 am – Sunset, March thru October.

The only true beach bar, this magnificent little bar is located in the Highpointe Development, across from Seacrest, just past Rosemary Beach. The best way, and the only way to access the bar unless you are a Highpointe resident or guest, is from the beach. You’ll see a long flight of steps between two sets of beachfront condos. Take those steps to the top and you’ll be at the bar. Beach attire is all you need. They offer a wide variety of beer and cocktails and outstanding beach food.

Seacrest Beach

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 – 9 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. 

LaCo Latin Coastal Kitchen, 10343 Hwy 30A, Daily, 10 am- 9 pm (850) 231-4021, Closed Thanksgiving Day & Nov. 29 – Dec. 25.

Formally Lo Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar, they rebranded and changed the name to LaCo and specialize in Latin coastal style. Nestled between Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach, the convenience makes it a worthwhile location. Brunch is served daily from 10 am until 2 pm. Reservations are not accepted, even for large parties. NOTE: a 20% gratuity is added to all to-go orders. Word is the margaritas are great, but we recommend you form your own opinion!  

Beach & Brew On 30A 10343 Hwy 30A, Daily, 12 pm – 9 pm (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. Live acoustic music on most nights. 

Pizza by the Sea 10343 Hwy 30A, Wednesday – Sunday, 11 am – 8 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 am – 4 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.

Starbucks, 10343 E Hwy 30A,

I can’t think of a single thing to write about this coffee franchise that hasn’t been espoused. Burnt coffee and overpriced, latte-thing drinks. However, we all like something they offer. Located between Creative Crepes and Lola Coastal Italian, across from Highpointe.

Alys Beach

The Citizen 20 Mark Twain Drive, Lunch, Tuesday-Sat 11 am – 3 pm, Bar Menu, 4-10 pm, Dinner, 5-9 pm, Sunday Brunch, 10:30 am – 1;30 pm (850) 909-0702

The newest restaurant along 30A in the heart of upscale Alys Beach opens opened in January of 2021. Managed by longtime hospitality consultant, Jeremy Walton, classic seafood dishes such as Gulf Shrimp with Calabrian Chilies, Roasted Grouper, and other items such as Filet will certainly add to the top-notch cuisine of 30A. Amenities include an 11-seat oyster bar and room for over 120 in the main dining area. Reservations are only accepted for parties of 8 or more. However, this restaurant is EXTREMELY noisy due to the interior’s hard surface. Be prepared to shout if the venue is over 60 percent capacity. 

Caliza Restaurant 23 Nonesuch Way, Food Daily, 11 am -4 pm, Bar Daily, 11 am – 6 pm (850) 213-5700, Closed Dec. 5 – March 1

Now open only to Alys Beach residents and guests, this upscale restaurant located beside the property’s fabulous pool features 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, Closed Nov. 29 – Dec. 25

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.

NEAT Bottle Shop 11 North Castle Harbour Drive, Tue-Sat, Noon-10 pm, (850) 213-5711

A small venue in Alys Beach, primarily serving drinks and appetizers. They offer a curated collection of artisan spirits, wines, and craft beer. Nice location to enjoy wine with a charcuterie while listening to acoustic performers.

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- 9 pm (850) 231-1452

Definitely the best pizza on 30A and voted such for 21 years. 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. Trust me, this is the best pie on 30a by far! An all-you-can-eat, daily lunch buffet is only $11 and is popular with the local construction workers.  Live music on a patio too. 

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. Our 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, Closed Nov. 28 – Dec. 25.

Hands down, one of the region’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 4:30-5:45 pm as you can get a two-for-one deal 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, Tuesday – Saturday, 5 pm – 9:30 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.

Steamboat Grill 30A 4935 E Hwy 30A, Daily, 11 am – 10 pm, (850) 213-3167

Excellent food and favored by locals. I recommend the Gumbo and Po-Boy sandwiches. Good bar selection. Not a fine dining establishment, yet much like a great small-town diner, which is reflected in the service. To-go, online ordering is now available.

Seaside 

Parking Note: Seaside’s central square remains closed to automobile traffic. Merchants and restaurants aren’t crazy about the decision, so try not and allow this to deter your plans to visit these spots. You can park and take a shuttle to Seaside for FREE. Park in the public lot on 283 South. The locals call this area Grayton Central. Shuttles begin at 6 a.m. each morning and end at 11 p.m. with service. 

The Great Southern Café 88 Central Square, Seaside, Daily, Breakfast 8- 10 am,  Lunch & Dinner11 am-9:30 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 an online reservation only.  

Forty-Five Central 45 Central Square, Seaside, Monday-Friday, 3:00-9:30 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 11:00 am-9:30 pm, (850) 231-4545

Chef Jim Shirley opened a smaller enterprise just steps away from his main restaurant that specializes in wine, sushi, and regional small plates. There’s lots of tables outside to engage in some serious people-watching. Paella nights take place every Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons at 5:30 pm, with the food ready about an hour later. Come early so you can reserve your spot. There are plenty of outstanding wines available by the glass.

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. 

The Melt Down on 30A 2235 E County Hwy 30A, Seaside, Daily, 11 am-7 pm

What’s not to love about a delicious grilled cheese sandwich? This spot is located along 30A in one of the Airstream trailers. Basically all that’s served are about a dozen versions of this delicious sandwich, drinks, and chips. Then again, what else do you need for a day at the beach.

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

The new Red Bar is NOW OPEN! Unfortunately, the Red Bar suffered a devasting fire in February of 2019 and had to rebuild. The good news is the interior looks much the same. Historically this venue is known for its bar food and live music. Drop by and support the owners and staff and let us know about your experience. BTW, the bathrooms are much larger!

RELATED: Grayton Beach, FL, One of America’s Top Beaches in 2017

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!

RELATED: Best Places Outside the Stadium to Watch Sports in Every SEC Town

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 taco while it’s being made and chat with local realtors about the prices of homes. They used to serve pizza with a Hookah lounge but I need to confirm.

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, 7 am – 3 pm (850) 213-4528

Combination bakery and coffee shop, and bar, this spot is a new addition to 30A. A joint project between the owner of Bud & Alley’s and a local chef, this spot was made Southern Living Magazines, “The South’s Best Bars 2020.” 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. Online ordering is now available.  

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.

Roux 30A 114 Logan Lane, Tuesday – Saturday, 6 pm – 10 pm (850) 213-0899

A superb restaurant, the interior is small and quaint, holding only 44 people. However, this incredible restaurant hosts lots of private dinners and events. Chef Nikhil Abuvala creates cutting-edge creations to classic, gourmet dishes. This farm-to-table spot should make your list, especially if you’re on the west end of 30A. Regardless of your location, the drive is worth the experience.

Shunk Gulley 1875 S. Hwy 393, Daily, 11 am – until you go home, (850) 622-2733

If you looking for oysters and live music, Shunk Gulley is the place. This two-story restaurant offers great views from the second story. From oysters to bar food to seafood dishes, you’ll find it all. More importantly, Shunk Gulley is one of the best places on 30a to catch quality live music. The ownership group also owns the infamous Flora-Bama, so several of their acts transition from their stages to Shunk Gulley. Don’t leave without trying the Yellowfin Tuna Dip.

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

Locals, including other restaurant managers, are beginning to say it’s the best restaurant on 30A. 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 ou for lunch only.

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.