South Walton Dining Hot Spots for Fall

The beach communities of South Walton are renowned for incredibly talented chefs, the freshest ingredients and culinary excellence. Yes, we’re pretty spoiled to have dozens of delectable South Walton dining options as well as some of the world’s most beautiful beaches! 
 
In addition, our coastal community celebrates a farm-to-table and sea-to-table philosophy, which ensures dishes are made with the freshest ingredients and purchased local whenever possible. From fine dining to casual beachside eateries, South Walton’s dining hot spots are plentiful. To help our guests make the most of their fall beach getaway, we’ve highlighted some of our top restaurants along Scenic Hwy 30A and throughout Miramar Beach.

Best Place for a Sunset Toast: Bud & Alley’s & The Tarpon Club 
A Seaside favorite, locals come for a sunset drink upstairs at the Tarpon Club. Get there early and guess the time of sunset on the chalk board. When the sun sets and the bell rings, the accurate guess receives a free drink. The lunch and dinner menu offers fresh fish (grilled, roasted, sautéed) as well as shellfish, quail, chicken, pork and plenty of delicious accompaniments. (850) 231-5900, budandalleys.com 

Best Locals Hangout: The Bay
One of South Walton’s newest local hotspots, The Bay will seem familiar. Owner of Great Southern Café in Seaside and The Fish House in Pensacola, Jim Shirley has introduced another coastal favorite. With a mouth-watering menu, including delicious sushi, great beer and wine selection, indoor and outdoor seating, the Bay has the perfect mix of casual and gourmet.  
(850) 622-2291, baysouthwalton.com

Best Asian Cuisine: Basmati’s
A hidden gem in Blue Mountain Beach, Basmati’s is big on flavor in a small intimate space. Fresh local seafood and Asian food flavors combine within a cozy setting overlooking Draper Lake. Sit inside or on the candlelit porch and savor this local treasure.  
(850) 502-4368, sushiseaside.com

Best Re-Opening: Elephant Walk 
Elephant Walk is back! A dining hot spot for 18 years, Elephant Walk has been revived. The casual upscale eatery has something for every taste. From yellow fin tuna to shrimp to pasta, steaks and seafood to famed Grouper Elizabeth, Elephant Walk delivers. Open for lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch. (850) 267-4800, Elephantwalksandestin.com

Best Brick Oven Pizza: It’s a 2-Way Tie! Fat Clemenza’s and Pizza by the Sea  
Fat Clemenza’s is our local trattoria featuring brick-oven pizzas, homemade pastas, and other delicious specialties. Dinner reservations suggested. (850) 650-5980, fatclemenzas.com

Pizza by the Sea has two locations and features thin, crispy pizzas baked on hot stone and topped with the highest quality toppings. Tasty gluten-free, dairy-free, and carb-free options are available. Gulf Place: (850) 231-3030 or WaterColor Crossing (next to Publix): (850) 267-2022, pizzabythesea.com

Best Wood-Fired Pizza: The Pizza Bar
The Pizza Bar is located within Seaside and features wood-fired pizza artisan cheese, fresh salads, antipasto dishes, homemade soups, seasonal vegetables, hearty pastas and fabulous. (850) 231-3113, budandalleys.com

For more resturant options, visit our online South Walton Restaurants dining guide, and we'll continue to compile more of our favorites. In the meantime, we encourage you to plan your fall beach getaway and enjoy the beautiful beaches, spectacular sunsets and delectable cuisine. View our list of available South Walton rentals and 30A condos online or call 800-225-7652. You’ll be glad you did!

Bon Appetit!
 
 

Published by Tracy Louthain
Thursday, September 4, 2014