SouthWaltonDiningScene.com™ Blog - South Walton, 30A Restaurant Directory, Ratings, Reviews, Dining Guides and News

Thanksgiving Dining in South Walton county, Florida 2009

2009-11-07T10:10:29-08:00

UPDATED November 22, 2009

Yeah! It's time to start thinking about one of my favorite foodie holidays of the year - Thanksgiving! And gosh, is there really any place more special to celebrate a day of "thanks" than in paradise? What is better than walking off that huge meal on the beach??

Are you going to be in South Walton for Thanksgiving this year? Look no further. Here is the 2nd Annual Guide to Thanksgiving Dining 2009 in South Walton county to help you plan for the big day if you don't feel like slaving in the kitchen yourself this year. Gooble gobble - Happy Turkey Day, folks!

Help update this list! Know of any additions? Please email all the fine details to: jill@southwaltonscene.com .

To Go

98 BBQ Turkey Dinner To Go | 5008 Hwy 98 W, Unit 1 [MAP] | 850-622.0679
Details All orders must be received by November 20. Pick up is Wednesday, November 25 (the day before Thanksgiving)
Menu Smoked and roasted Turkeys and Hams and all the fixins. Please call for pricing and menu.

Cocoons Fine Food Turkey Dinner To Go | 4101 E County Highway 30A, Seagrove Beach [MAP] | 850-231-4544
Details All orders must be received by Monday, November 23. Pick up is Wednesday, November 25 until 5pm (the day before Thanksgiving)
Menu There are many items to choose from to construct the perfect Thanksgiving meal so please call for full menu including: Honey Baked Ham, smoked turkey breast, turducken, pepper-crusted pork loin, dressing, gravy, sides, desserts, and more.

Cowgirl Kitchen Thanksgiving Sides & Wines To Go | 54 Main Street, Rosemary Beach [MAP]| 850.303.0708
Details Order by November 22. Pickup between 9am - noon on Thanksgiving Day.
Menu Spiral hams, sauces & gravies, casseroles, dips & sides, salads, desserts, wines by the bottle and more! See Menu and Pricing (pdf)

*NEW* Modica Market Sides to Go | Seaside, Florida Town Center [MAP] 850-231-1214‎
Details Offered starting Monday, November 22. First come, first serve.
Menu includes Squash casserole, green been casserole, cornbread dressing, oyster dressing, corn pudding and cranberry sauce.

Publix Turkey Dinner To Go
Three South Walton locations: 2038 US Hwy 98 W, Santa Rosa Beach (850) 267-0582; Grand Boulevard: 725 Grand Blvd at Sandestin (850) 622-2326 | WaterColor Crossings: 110 Watercolor Way at WaterColor (850) 534-4565. [MAPS]
Details Place your order as early as possilble.
Menu includes Roasted Turkey, Dressing, Gravy, Mashed Potatoes and Cran-Orange Relish; and you can obviously pick up all the other things you would need (e.g. rolls, pies, etc.)

Dining Out

BaitHouse at WaterColor Thanksgiving Day Brunch Buffet | 238 Watercolor Blvd, Santa Rosa Beach (WaterColor) [MAP] | (850) 534-5960
Details Reservations ARE required; Buffet-style; Thursday, November 26, 2009 from 11AM - 3PM; Cost: $40.00 Per Adult and $20.00 Per Child (Age 12 & Younger)
Menu See Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet menu here

Cafe Thirty-A Thanksgiving Dinner | 3899 East Scenic Hwy 30A, Seagrove Beach [MAP] | (850) 231-2166
Details Noon to 4pm. Call for reservations and information. Cost: $40 Adults. $15 Children.
Menu See Thanksgiving Dinner menu.

*NEW* Christiano's Ristorante | 4942 US HWY 98 W, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida [MAP] 850-267-2185‎
Details Traditional Thanksgiving Buffet, 11AM - 3PM; $25.95/adults, $11.95/Kids 5-10yrs, 4 and under free. Limited seating. Call for reservation
Menu includes Call for information

Fish Out of Water Thanksgiving Dinner | 34 Golden Rod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach (Watercolor) [MAP] (850) 534-5050
Details 4-course dinner to be served. Open from 4-8PM. Cost: $55 Adults, $25 Children 12 and under. Reservations required.
Menu See Thanksgiving Dinner menu.

Hilton Sandestin Beach Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet | 4000 S Sandestin Blvd
Sandestin [MAP] | (850) 267-9500 x 44
Details 11AM - 6PM. Reservations required. Buffet-style including crab & vidalia onion bisque, peel & eat shrimp, salads, craved turkey, ham, bourbon glazed pork loin, traditional side dishes and dessert table and more. Adults: $31.95/ Children 7-12 years $12.95 Children 6 and under free.
Menu See Thanksgiving Menu.

Old Florida Fish House & Bar Thanksgiving Dinner | 5235 E County Highway 30A, Seagrove Beach [MAP] | (850) 534-3045
Details Choice of entree with selection of sides, rolls and dessert. ($23.95 - $26.95) Open from noon-7pm. Call for reservations.
Menu See Thanksgiving Menu.

Restaurant Fire Thanksgiving Day Buffet. | 55 Clayton Lane, Grayton Beach [MAP] | 850.231.9020
Details Two seatings: 11:30am and 2:00 pm. Cost: $35 for adults, $15 for children ages 3-12, and free for children under 3. Reservations are required.
Menu Salads, turkey, salmon, short ribs, shrimp pasta, 12 sides and gravies, and dessert table.

Sandestin's Annual Thanksgiving Day Brunch | Magnolia Ballroom ~ Baytowne Conference Center | 850.267.6398
Details Reservations are required. 10AM-3PM. $34 Adults / $17 Children ages 4-11 / Children under 4 dine for free
Menu View full menu >>

The Great Southern Cafe Thanksgiving Buffet | 83 Central Square, Seaside [MAP] | 850.231-7327
Details Open from 11am to 3pm; reservations are encouraged. Cost: $24 per adult, Children 12 and under $12
Menu See Thanksgiving menu.

Santa Rosa Beach Club Thanksgiving Buffet | 4801 W. Co. Highway 30A, Dune Allen Beach [MAP] | 850-267-1240
Details Open from 11am - 3pm. Reservations required - call Christine at 850-267-1240. Cost: $29 Adults, $12 Children.
Menu View Thanksgiving Buffet menu

SunQuest Cruises Thanksgiving Feast aboard the Solaris | Leaves from the Sandestin Marina | 850-650-2519
Details: Reservations are required. Board the Solaris at 12:30PM and sail from 1-3PM. $55/adults
$35/kids 5-10years; $15/kids up to 4 years.
Menu Menu includes traditional favorites with a gulf coast flare including salads, breads, herb-roasted Turkey with giblet gravy, brown-sugar glazed smoked ham, grouper, butternut squash risotto and much more. View full menu.
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Stinky's Fish Camp Thanksgiving Dinner | 5994 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach [MAP] | (850) 267-3053
Details: Open from 11AM - 9PM. No reservations are being taken. Three course meal - choice of soup or salad, turkey with the fixin's and choice of homemade pie. Cost: $24.95. LIMITED Dinner Menu will also be available.
Menu Call for menu specifics.

A Taste of France at Lumpy's Wine Bar; Night Out with Table Five Chef Dinner; Openings, Closings & Seasonal Closings and more

2009-10-20T07:39:00-07:00

Enjoy a "A Taste of France" this Thursday at Lumpy's Wine Bar at Baytowne Wharf Savor the flavor of french wine and cheese this Thursday, October 22 from 6-8pm at Lumpy's Wine Bar [MAP]. Hosted by Matt Clymer of Old World Wines, for $20/per person participants will sample a flight of two white and three red wines paired with cheese. Special discounts will be extended that evening as well. Call 850-267-2526 to make a reservation.

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"Night Out" @ La Botana with Table Five Personal Chef October 29 Grab your better half or your favorite foodie friends and head to a "Night Out" featuring "A Flavor of Fall" created by Chef Philip McDonald of Table Five Personal Chef on Thursday, October 29 at 630pm at La Botana on Scenic Hwy 30A in Seagrove. For $100/per person, diners will be treated to a 5-course dinner featuring such autumn-inspired dishes such as Arugula Panzanella, Seared Grouper Cheeks and Garlic & Rosemary Crusted Lamb Chops, paired with wines from J Vineyards of the Russian River Valley. To make your reservation, call 850.231.0716.

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"Adieu", "Hello" and Seasonal Closings It's that time of year when we begin to see some local restaurants and eateries turn off the burner for the fall & winter to take a much needed break and prepare for the next tourist season which will begin next March. Included as of this post is: JamBone Express in Grayton Beach (JamBone and JamBone Express have closed), Elmo's Grill in Santa Rosa Beach and Senor Mojitos Waterfront Grill & Oyster Bar just south of the Hwy 331 bridge in Santa Rosa Beach.

{sigh} A few others have turned the burner off permanently and we bid them adieu, including Cafe' Bouchee in Seagrove Beach, Guigliamo's Italian Grill in Santa Rosa Beach and PJ's Coffee of New Orleans and Planet Smoothie in Redfish Village and WaterColor Town Center.

And let's welcome Christiano's Italian Restaurant which opened recently in the Guigliamo's location in Santa Rosa Beach!

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Destin Chops 30A Available to Host Your Private Function Destin Chops 30A, an upscale steakhouse with a contemporary twist located on Scenic Hwy 30A, is now accepting reservations for private functions and events. With a capacity of 250 people, it is the perfect venue for wedding receptions, anniversary dinners, birthday celebrations, or holiday parties.

“While this region plays host to a number of delightful eateries, there aren’t many venues that can truly accommodate large wedding receptions or other private events with the class, professionalism, and style that Destin Chops 30A can provide,” said Jim Altamura, proprietor of Destin Chops 30A. “We are happy to offer this added amenity for our faithful patrons.”

For more information, call 850.231.4050.

Restaurant Week/Dining For A Cause coming in November; Baytowne Beer Festival; studio b Foodie Event

2009-10-14T07:37:00-07:00

Tastefully Simple and Children's Volunteer Health Network Teaming Up CVHN is hosting a Tastefully Simple benefit party on October 23 from 5-7pm at the Seagrove Highlands Condominiums pool [MAP]. Enjoy an evening of camaraderie, great food and wine. 20% of all sales as well as future orders placed through their Tastefully Simple consultant will go directly to CVHN. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to admin@cvhnkids.org by Wednesday, October 21. Questions? 850-622-3200.

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"Restaurant Week/Dining For A Cause" Coming to Grand Boulevard at Sandestin Grand Boulevard [MAP] presenting Restaurant Week/Dining for a Cause from November 9 – 13, featuring one-of-a-kind menus at reduced prices ($15 - $32.95) from the five signature restaurants of Grand Boulevard including Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Cantina Laredo, Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar and Mitchell’s Fish Market . $1 dollar of every meal sold will go to the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center. Each time you dine, you can also enter to win a $1,000 shopping spree from Grand Boulevard.

Restaurant week culminates on Friday, November 13, at 7:30 p.m. in Grand Park, when the winner of the $1,000 shopping spree will be drawn by special guest and author, Sister Schubert, of Sister Schubert rolls fame. Coast 93.3, the presenting media sponsor, will be on hand in Grand Park that night from 6 pm. to 8 p.m. with a live remote and a DJ playing music from their “80s all weekend”. Sister Schubert will also sign copies of her new cookbook Cast Your Bread Upon the Waters. Proceeds of her glossy 180-page coffee-table cookbook go to Sasha’s Home, an orphanage in the Ukraine supported by Sister Schubert.

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Baytowne Beer Festival Happening This Weekend Time to roll out the barrel and discover unique suds & ales! The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin [MAP] is redefining Oktoberfest. Known for the highly-anticipated yearly Sandestin Wine Festival, the Village is applying the same concept to a different type of adult beverages – Beer – with the area’s first and only Baytowne Wharf Beerfest. American specialty beers from around the nation will be available for participants to sample and savor. Read all about it and view the event lineup >> HERE.

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[click to enlarge]
For full information and to register, visit studiobthebeach.com.

Eight Places in South Walton to Indulge Your Oysters on the Half Shell Craving

2009-10-13T14:33:34-07:00

Oysters on the half shell.

For some the mere mention makes them squirm in disgust, for others it is culinary music to the ears. We are fortunate indeed with the bountiful variety of fish and shellfish from the Gulf of Mexico that show up on dining tables here but did you know that Apalachicola Bay oysters are considered some of the finest eating oysters available...in the world? (read all about it in the NY Times here). Located about 95 miles to our east, Apalachicola is close enough that most oysters found on menus in South Walton will originate from there BUT there are other varieties that you will find as well that are excellent in their own right.

Revered by the culinary adventurous and those who have grown up where the bivalve mollusks are plentiful, these briny "mouthfuls of the sea" are a local South Walton delicacy served straight up over ice, shucked and raw, and are at their best now through spring.

(Just a side tidbit - that whole thing about only eating raw oysters during months that contain an "R" is a myth although it is true certain naturally occurring marine bacteria, like Vibrio, are higher in coastal waters during warm weather months. But you can still get ill during the colder months as well. Read about who should not ever eat raw oysters and other safety facts here).

So where can you go in these parts to indulge your oyster on the half shell craving? Here are our picks. Feel free to add your favorite or comments below.

Caliza Restaurant at Alys Beach
Info | Directions
Apalachicola Oysters and Washington State Wellfleet Oysters. Served on ice with lemon, cocktail sauce and shallot-cucumber vinaigrette.

Acme Oyster House at Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin
Info | Directions
Louisiana Oysters. Served on ice with lemon, horseradish and cocktail sauce.

Goatfeather's Seafood Restaurant in Santa Rosa Beach
Info | Directions
Apalachicola Oysters. Served on ice with a lemon and a variety of sauces (eg. hot sauce, cocktail sauce, remoulade sauce.) Oyster Happy Hour daily until 6pm.

Hurricane Oyster Bar in Grayton Beach
Info | Directions
Apalachicola Oysters. Served on ice seven different ways, with different sauces. Daily Oyster Happy Hour from 3-6pm daily.

Stinky's Fish Camp in Dune Allen Beach
5994 W. Co. Hwy. 30-A, Dune Allen Beach, 32459 | 850-267-3053 | www.stinkysfishcamp.com
Apalachicola Oysters. Served on ice with lemon, cocktail sauce, and horseradish.

Bayou Bill's Crab House in Santa Rosa Beach
Info | Directions
Apalachicola oysters. Served on ice with lemon, cocktail sauce and horseradish.

Buster's Oyster Bar and Grill in Miramar Beach
Info | Directions
Apalachicola Oysters. Served on ice with lemon and cocktail sauce. Oyster Happy Hour daily from 5-6pm.

Hammerhead's Bar & Grill at Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin
Info | Directions
Louisiana Oysters. Served on ice with lemon and cocktail sauce. Oyster Happy Hour daily from 3-6pm.

Six {fun and lively} Places to Catch the Big Weekend Game in South Walton, Florida

2009-09-24T08:39:21-07:00

Shades at the Loop Family Restaurant and Sports Bar
10952 E County Highway 30A # 1, Inlet Beach, 32413 | 850-231-9410 | website

"Good Food. Cold Beer. Hot Wings." is their tag and Shades doesn't disappoint for those on the east end of Scenic 30A looking for a spot to watch the big game. With several flatscreens throughout the bar, they offer the "largest draft beer selection in N.W. Florida" for you beer aficionados as well as weekend bar specials to sweeten the deal, including $3 domestics, $13 buckets of beer, $8 pitchers and a food special to keep your energy levels up during your favorite game! Shades is open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week, from 11am - midnight

JamBone Beach Barbeque and Raw Bar JamBone has closed.
3906 US Highway 98 W, Santa Rosa Beach, 32459 |850-267-1497 | full info
Drive by JamBone on a weekend afternoon during football season and chances are the parking lot will be bustling with the die hard football fans amongst us. Championship BBQ, slap your mama good specialty burgers, cold beer, flatscreens throughout and premium sports channels ... yeah, this is definitely a popular spot to watch the game. They are open daily from 11am - 2am, and offer Sunday brunch featuring sinfully delish egg "bennies" offered 9 different ways, an buy-one-get-the-rest-free build your own bloody mary bar and endless champagne from 11am - 2pm.

Ballyhoo Bar and Grill
3711 W Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, 32459 | 850-622-4092
Located on 30A, Ballyhoo offers football fanatics a fun and lively sports bar atmosphere to enjoy the game! With 7 flatscreens and the Direct TV NFL package, there are always 4 of the big games on the boob tub at any given time. Enjoy drink specials - $1 drafts and $2 bottles o' beer - as well as rotating food specials and a full menu to satisfy everyones craving for carbs and grub. Open daily at 11am.

Rum Runners at the Village of Baytowne Wharf
130 Fisherman's Cove, Sandestin, Florida 32550 | (850) 351-1817 | website
Did you know? Rum Runners offers the only sports bar in Baytowne (located upstairs)? Enjoy the big game from 11am - 6pm downstairs on a big projection TV at which point the party moves upstairs where sports fans can watch the several games on a bunch of flatscreens throughout. They have the ESPN and NFL packages to catch all the college and pro games. Enjoy a Football Munchie Menu and drink specials including 2 for 1 drafts and wine and other rotating deals to save you a bit of moola.

PIZZA Bar
2236 E County Highway 30A, Seaside Town Center, 32459 | 850-231-3113 | full info
An upscale pizzeria may not be the first place you may think to hit when you want to watch the game but Bud and Alley's PIZZA Bar now has 12 brand spanking new flatscreens for football season! Yes, I can definitely see sipping a cold one from their full bar and eating some of their authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas and other Italian goodies while rooting for the team! With the cool weather just around the corner, I won't be surprised if the outside area tucked away in the dunes becoming the "hip" place to watch the weekend games!

Buffalo Jacks Legendary Wings
11275 Emerald Coast Parkway E Miramar Beach, 32550 | 850-424-6288 | website
Football, icy cold beer and wings have become one of the ultimate American cultural trifectas. Get it all at this excellent wing joint located in Mirarmar Beach. They play ESPN College Football on Thursdays - Saturdays, NFL Sunday Ticket games on Sundays and NFL on Mondays. They don't offer a discount on their wings but do offer $3 25-oz drafts during the games and a heavenly pig out menu complete with Chili Cheese fries, hand cut onion rings, Angus burgers, Nachos and more. Open from 11am - 10pm seven days a week.

Foodie News You Can Use!

2009-09-16T14:31:08-07:00

Really neat idea!! World Dining Series at Chan's Wine World - Destin Travel through Chan Wine World's "World Dining series" offered each Tuesday night from 5-9pm at Chan's in Destin [MAP]. Discover France, Argentina, Italy, Spain and all of the world’s greatest wine & culinary regions. A traditional one dish meal perfectly paired with a wine from that region will allow your taste buds to experience the world. It’s like we say, “If it grows together, it goes together.” Better yet? Two can dine for only $29.99! That's a deal! Reservations encouraged but not required at (850) 269-2902.

Here is a peek at the latest event menu (which took place last night!)

September 15 – Italy/San Francisco
Cioppino – served family style. Served with an 08 Lagaria, Pinot Grigio or 02 Formulae, Chianti. Add $10 and try one of these: 07 La Tunella, Pinot Grigio or 06 Badiola, Red Blend. Add $20 and try one of these:08 Santa Margherita, Pinot Grigioor 05 Ruffino Riserva Ducale, Chianti

Here are the upcoming themes:

September 22 – France/Spain/Creole
Jambalaya
September 29 – Argentina
Carbonata Criollo
October 6 – Germany
Chicken in Riesling with Spatzle
October 13 – Italy
October 20 – France
Bouillabaisse & Rouille
October 27 – Mediterranean
Lamb, Lemon & Olive Pasta

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Dining Specials and Deals around South Walton It's officially the "off-season" here in South Walton which means restaurants rally to offer specials and deals to lure locals until our {beloved} visitors come back in droves in March. Check out these specials currently happening around town:

Recession-friendly Lunch Specials at Pizza by the Sea [MAP]
Starting at just $3.99, diners can eat "The Best Pizza in South Walton 2008 and 2009" as voted by SouthWaltonScene.com Readers that is easy on your wallet. Their most popular offering is the "Pick Two." which, at $5.99, includes a fountain drink. Diners can choose from the following:
    * Big Slice of Pizza
    * Side Salad (choose from House, Caesar, Greek or Spinach)
    * Baked Spaghetti
    * Soup of the Day
Super September Specials at Flip Flops in Seagrove Beach [MAP]
All non-seafood items on the menu are $6.99 (drink included) and all seafood items on the menu are $8.99 (drink included), from 5-8pm, every night!
Early Dining Special from 5-6:30pm at Pandora's Steakhouse in Grayton Beach [MAP]
Enjoy one of the following entrees, served with salad, choice of potato and bread for only $14.95:
- Jumbo Lump Crab Cake w/ Roasted Red Pepper Remoulade
- Crispy Grilled Duck w/ Sweet & Spicy Raspberry
- Oak Grilled Sirloin
- Panko Fried Center Cut Pork Chop
- Grilled Salmon w/ Lemon Dill Cream
"Sunset Features" Two-for-One from 5-6pm nightly at The Lake Place Restaurant [MAP]
Enjoy one of the following for only $13/each
- Potato Crusted local gulf fish
- Grilled Fish of the Day with mushrooms, capers, lemon, wine and butter sauce
- Half Herb Roast Chicken with Vegetable Pot Pie
- House-made Gnocchi of the Day
- Crab Cakes with warm remoulade and green beans
- Boudin-stuffed Pork Chop with Red Eye Gravy and Carmalized Onion
Dining Specials at Destin Chops 30A [MAP]
Customers can enjoy half-priced bottles of wine with the purchase of any entrée on Mondays and Tuesdays. Jim Altamura, proprietor of both Destin Chops 30A and Marina Café, hand selects each wine based on availability, value and taste. Patrons who dine at Destin Chops 30A from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. will receive the Early Dining Special: buy one entrée and get the second one, of equal or lesser value, free.

Happy Hour at Destin Chops 30A is every evening from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., when the urban-beach-chic contemporary steakhouse not only offers half-priced drinks, but now, with an extended Sushi Happy Hour, also serves up one of the area’s top sushi menus at half-price. Ladies enjoy $2 drinks on Thursday nights and everyone can indulge in $5 Martini Madness on Wednesdays.

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"WinesDay" Wednesdays at La Botana in Seagrove Beach La Botana, located on Scenic Hwy 30A in Seagrove Beach [MAP], where the tag is "See Friends. Feel Love. Drink Wine." has a special Wednesday promotion going on every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 11:00pm. ALL bottles of wine are 50% off! Pair that with some of their Mexican small plates and a group of your favorite people and you have a fabulous way to spend Wednesday evenings!

Foodie News You Can Use: Labor Day BBQ and Wine Event at Courtyard Wine and Cheese; "WinesDay" Wednesdays at La Botana and more.

2009-09-02T08:19:14-07:00

Courtyard Wine and Cheese asks, "What is better than college football, smoked meats, and wine?" Courtyard Wine and Cheese in downtown Rosemary Beach are bringing the trifecta straight to your palate this Labor Day weekend at their first annual Labor Day Weekend BBQ and Wine Event Here are the details:

What: Courtyard's first annual BBQ and Wine Event
When: Labor Day Weekend (Saturday and Sunday, noon-until)
Where: Courtyard Wine and Cheese, 66 Main Street, Rosemary Beach [MAP]
Why: If you have tried pairing wines with smoked meats, you know what a great match it can be. The ribs, sausage, and beef will be smoked a minimum of six hours by an award-winning BBQ master on a trailer sized smoker. We will then pair wines to match the meats that will be available as a sampler platter with several wines. Live music will be going on both nights from 7-10 pm, and College Football will be on the TV.
Contact: CourtYardWineandCheese.com, 850-231-1219.

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"WinesDay" Wednesdays at La Botana in Seagrove Beach La Botana located on Scenic Hwy 30A in Seagrove Beach [MAP] where the tag is "See Friends. Feel Love. Drink Wine." has a special Wednesday promotion going on every Wednesday from 5:00pm - 11:00pm where ALL bottles of wine are 50% off! Pair that with some of their Mexican small plates and a group of your favorite people and you have a fabulous way to spend Wednesday evenings!

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Prime Rib + Lobster Special at Santa Rosa Beach Club in Dune Allen Beach In the mood for some surf and turf? Head on over to Santa Rosa Beach Club on Scenic Hwy 30A every Wednesday night where, for $28/per person, you can dine on prime rib, whole Maine lobster, a house salad and a starch-side. Santa Rosa Beach Club is located at 4801 W. Co. Hwy. 30-A, Santa Rosa Beach, 32459. Reservations - 850-267-2305.

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Lunch Specials at Summer Kitchen Cafe in Rosemary Beach If you find yourself on the east end of Scenic Hwy 30A with an appetite for a good lunch, head on over to Summer Kitchen Cafe in Rosemary Beach [MAP IT] from 1030am - 3pm. A sampling of this weeks specials?

Chicken Fajita Wrap - peppers, onions, chicken, sour cream, salsa & cheddar cheese and chips $6.50
Grilled Vegetable Sandwich with our own hummus, fresh mozzarella and a roasted red pepper sauce with a side of pasta salad $7.95
Pan Fried Mahi Mahi sandwich - remoulade, lettuce tomato on toasted Gambino bread with a side of Winky's potato salad $9.95

Four Places to Find {yummy} Fish Tacos in South Walton

2009-08-19T19:15:08-07:00

When visiting any coastal area in the country, never never never pass up an opportunity to indulge in what is considered a staple street food in coastal areas of Mexico - the Fish Taco. Said to be discovered in the Baja Pennisula, the ingredient list can counted on one hand - white fleshed fish, breaded and fried or grilled, cradled in a corn or white tortilla alongside cabbage, pico de gallo and a creamy sauce. And as foodies know, it is usually the most simple foods that bring the greatest joy. And oh boy - when it comes to Fish Tacos - this is the truth!

Although you won't find little foods stands along the road selling this tasty on-the-go, inexpensive fare, you will find Fish Tacos on menus all around South Walton. The fish used here is typically grouper, but expect to also find mahi mahi, too.

Here is where I like to go for my Fish Taco fix. Feel free to add your favorite spots in the comment section below.

Hurricane Oyster Bar
37 Logan Lane, Grayton Beach, 32459 | 850-231-0787 | www.hurricaneoysterbar.com
Hurricane Oyster Bar serves my personal favorite fish taco in South Walton as I like my fish as untouched as possible (read: no breading or deep-frying). It is kept nice and simple here. They offer theirs blackened, grilled or pan-fried (no breading) and serve them on flour tortillas with cabbage, cilantro, pico de gallo and a creamy red pepper sauce I could eat with a spoon. ($10 for two fish tacos with a choice of a side)

TACO Bar
2236 E. Co. Hwy. 30-A, Seaside, FL 32459 [MAP IT] | 850-231-4781 | BudandAlleys.com/taco_bar.php
If you are looking for authentic Baja-style fish tacos served in an on-the-go atmosphere, this is the spot to check out. A little outdoor eatery where you order at the counter and eat under a handful of shaded tables, they use Mahi Mahi served grilled or breaded with cornmeal and fried, served on a grilled corn tortilla with cabbage, pico de gallo and a squirt of avocado mayo. ($4/per taco)

Smiling Fish Cafe
37 Town Center Loop, Santa Rosa Beach, 32459 | 850-622-3071 | www.smilingfishcafe.com
Smiling Fish Cafe is a popular lunch spot (they were voted Best Ultra Casual Dining in South Walton) - they are only open for dinner on Tuesday nights - and lunch is the only time to can order their SUBSTANTIAL Fish Tacos. If there were a stick-to-your-ribs version of a fish taco, this would surely be it. Grouper is breaded and deep-fried and served on grilled flour tortillas with a spicy Southwest Slaw, chopped tomato, chipolte sour cream, cilantro and guacamole. ($9.95 for two fish tacos with a side of orzo pasta salad).

George's at Alys Beach
30 Castle Harbour Drive, Alys Beach, 32459 [MAP IT] 850-641-0017 | GeorgesatAlysBeach.com I absolutely love the ambiance at George's at Alys Beach. The offer dining on a covered porch (no bugs to swat away) and, although crowded, there is always a good and happy vibe in the place. It's the crowd that actually makes it fun! The locally famous "Senora Anna's Fish Tacos" are also served at their sister restaurant, Seagrove Village Market, down the road in Seagrove Beach. Their grouper "fingers" are battered and fried and served in ample amounts in white tortillas with a delicious roasted poblano/lime tartar sauce and pico de gallo served on the side. ($13 for two fish tacos with a side of brown rice and beans).

Six Places to Find a Good Margarita in South Walton

2009-08-08T11:59:53-07:00

It's Saturday. You have a day off or you are on vacation - or you have a day off and want to act like you are on vacation (hey, you live at the beach!). It's hot and humid out. Quite miserable actually. You want a refreshment to parch that thirst, to cool you down, after some time spent on the beach. You want it with a nip of something to help you unwind - to relax and decompress.

Margarita anyone?

This Mexican tequila-based cocktail has become analogous with vacation in any tropical region in the world. For me personally, until I have had a margarita, my vacation hasn't officially started.

So where can you find a good Margarita in our slice of beach paradise? Give one of these six (or all of them) a whirl and let the good times begin. Cheers!

Fruit Cocktail at SEASIDE
This "funky walk up bar" is the newest Airstream addition in what is being called the “Land Yacht District” in downtown SEASIDE. Offering top shelf ingredients, they use fresh fruits and purees in their Margaritas.

TACO Bar at SEASIDE
Located on the south side of Scenic 30A in downtown SEASIDE, the TACO Bar is South Walton's answer to a roadside taco stand and serves up a mean margarita, including their specialty - the "Mo"garita - ($8) "a blend of Tequila, lime juice, sour, and orange juice, perfected by none other than everybody’s favorite margarita salesman, Mo." Cute.

Caliza at Alys Beach
Like everything else at Alys Beach, the Margaritas at Caliza are made with only the best of the best ingredients, including fresh fruits and top-shelf booze. Not to mention, this is arguably the most sexy and upscale place to sip a Margarita in South Walton. The bar is open to the public Tuesday - Saturday from 5:30pm to 10pm.

La Cocina (formerly Mi Cocina) in Seacrest Beach
The house specialty Margarita at this newly opened Tex Mex restaurant on Scenic 30A in Seacrest Beach is called the "Mi CoRita" which is served frozen with a swirl of Sangria ($8).

Cantina Laredo at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin
This "upscale" Tex Mex chain is known for their Margaritas. They have not one but six top-shelf specialty Margaritas, ranging from a Cabo Margarita made with Cabo Wabo Reposado blended with Grand Marnier ($12.50) to a Pomegrantate Margarita made with pomegranate puree and their signature Casa Rita ($9)

Pompano Joe's in Miramar Beach
OK, this may not be the best Margarita in South Walton but I had to mention it because it offers one of the best atmospheres to sip one in - overlooking the beach. And sadly, this is a rarity in South Walton so we must take advantage of it when we can. You really feel like you are on vacation when you sit at an open air table looking straight into the Gulf of Mexico. They offer a standard Margarita, including two frozen varities - a Strawberry and Blue ($6.50).

Have I missed any? Add your favorite place to sip a cold on below in the comment section.

Foodie News You Can Use! Morrocan Cuisine at Studio b : Dining Scene DEAL Alert : Spanish Wine Tasting with Free Tapas

2009-08-06T10:28:29-07:00

I recently attended a culinary focused Studio b event and I must say it was a fantastic way for this foodie to spend an evening! (see pictures here) I spent a few hours learning new techniques, exploring new tastes (Cucumber/Bourbon cocktails!), and making new friends around the dinner table as we shared the fabulous meal we had all participated in creating. Our hosts were a lovely couple from NYC - James Briscione and Brooke Parkhurst - who are blazing paths in the new generation of foodies and professional chefs. Brooke is a published author and James has made appearances on the Food Network. It was a treat rub elbows with the rising stars and to talk with them one on one.

The next Foodie Event at Studio b is sure to be a crowd pleaser as well. Enjoy a night of demonstration and tasting on Friday, September 5 at Studio b in Alys Beach. And participants on Saturday, September 6, will immerse themselves in the cuisine of Morocco at an absolutely ideal location - the Caliza Pool at Alys Beach. Full details are below. Grab your friends and make your reservations soon as these events are limited in size.To register, email scoop@studiobthebeach.com.

September 5th & 6th, 2009 : Taste of Morocco with Peggy Markel at Caliza Pool

September 5th : Moroccan Aperitif
Experience Moroccan fare! Observe and prepare preserved lemons, eggplant caviar, and marinated olives.
Learn about Moroccan spices, salts and unique oils. A pomegranate aperitif will be served. Come experience the exotic flavors in the Studio b. kitchen from 4:30 - 6:30. Cost : $50.00

September 6th : Tagines Just Landed at Caliza Pool

Learn how to make the most delectable Moroccan dishes in this most versatile of cooking
vessel- the tagine. Learn slow-cooked braises of chicken, lamb or fish with dried fruits, spices or vegetables. 5:00 - 7:30 with candlelight dinner to follow. Cost : $150.00

The menu includes:
Chicken Tagine with preserved lemons, olives, and fresh coriander
Kefta: Spicy Moroccan meatballs
Berber Omelette: eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, cooked over fire
Moroccan cooked salads
Fresh green salad with pomegranate
Florida orange slices with cinnamon
and a Moroccan spiced infused cocktail

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South Walton Foodie Scene Deal Alert - Early Bird Gets The Worm at Pandora's Steakhouse in Grayton Beach Money a bit tight but still want to enjoy a meal out now and then? Pandora's Steakhouse in Grayton Beach is running an early dining special that may entice you. From 5-6:30pm nightly, enjoy a full meal for only $14.95. Choices include an oak-grilled sirloin (7oz.), peach-BBQ grilled chicken (1/2 chicken) or cajun grilled Mahi Mahi. Each entree comes with a dinner salad, a choice of baked potato, seasoned rice, or fries, and fresh baked bread. Now THAT'S a deal!

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Spanish Wine Tasting and Tapas at Chan's Wine World in Destin tomorrow, Friday, August 7 Take a drive into Destin [MAP] for a very special tasting this Friday at Chan's Wine World. Enjoy samples from Chan's updated Tapas menu which will be paired with 10 different Spanish wines. $10 per person and includes tapas.

View the wines here.

View Tapas Menu here.

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