Top Restaurants in Each Community Along 30A: A Culinary Journey
The scenic stretch of Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A isn’t just known for its pristine beaches and luxurious vacation rentals—it’s also a food lover’s paradise. Each of the charming coastal communities along 30A boasts unique dining spots that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh Gulf seafood, Southern comfort food, or farm-to-table dishes, 30A has it all. Here’s your guide to the top restaurants in each 30A community, highlighting their menus and culinary styles.
Dune Allen Beach
Stinky’s Fish Camp
Cuisine: Southern Seafood
Stinky’s Fish Camp is a beloved local spot known for its fresh seafood with a Southern twist. Their menu includes dishes like Crawfish Pie, Fried Shrimp, and Shrimp & Grits. For those who love oysters, Stinky’s offers them raw, baked, or chargrilled. The laid-back, rustic setting provides a true Gulf Coast experience.
Specialty Dishes: Crawfish Pie, Oyster Stew, Daily Catch
Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly, with a focus on local seafood.
3 Sons Barbecue
Cuisine: Southern BBQ
3 Sons Barbecue is a newer addition to the 30A dining scene, specializing in slow-smoked meats with Southern flair. Their menu includes mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and spare ribs. Pair your meal with classic BBQ sides like macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread.
Specialty Dishes: Smoked Brisket, Pulled Pork, Spare Ribs
Atmosphere: Laid-back and rustic, perfect for families and barbecue lovers.
Gulf Place
Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar
Cuisine: Gulf Seafood
Shunk Gulley offers fresh Gulf seafood with a focus on sustainability and local sourcing. Their menu includes dishes like Gulf shrimp, lobster rolls, and oysters on the half shell. They also have a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and salads. The restaurant is situated near the beach, giving diners beautiful Gulf views while they enjoy their meals.
Specialty Dishes: Oyster Po' Boys, Lobster Rolls, Crab Claws
Atmosphere: Casual dining with Gulf views and live music.
The Perfect Pig
Cuisine: Southern-Inspired American
The Perfect Pig blends Southern comfort food with gourmet American cuisine. Their menu offers items like pulled pork, Gulf shrimp and grits, and bacon-wrapped scallops. Brunch is a must here, with options like quiche, breakfast sandwiches, and blueberry pancakes.
Specialty Dishes: Shrimp and Grits, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Scallops
Atmosphere: Cozy and casual with a Southern charm.
Santa Rosa Beach
Vue on 30A
Cuisine: Upscale Seafood and Steakhouse
Known for its stunning oceanfront views, Vue on 30A serves upscale coastal cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and high-quality steaks. Their dinner menu features dishes like Gulf Grouper, Filet Mignon, and Lobster Mac & Cheese. Their seasonal cocktails and wine list complement the refined menu.
Specialty Dishes: Gulf Grouper, Filet Mignon, Lobster Mac & Cheese
Atmosphere: Elegant, upscale dining with ocean views.
The Bay
Cuisine: Southern Coastal Fusion
The Bay offers a relaxed waterfront dining experience on Choctawhatchee Bay. The menu is an eclectic mix of Southern-inspired dishes, sushi, and wood-fired pizzas. Highlights include Crispy Brussels with Thai sauce, Gulf Coast Pizza, and Grilled Grouper.
Specialty Dishes: Grilled Grouper, Wood-fired Pizza, Sushi Rolls
Atmosphere: Casual and scenic waterfront dining.
Grayton Beach
The Red Bar
Cuisine: Eclectic American with Southern Influence
An iconic staple in Grayton Beach, The Red Bar is known for its funky atmosphere and limited but delicious menu. The daily specials typically include crab cakes, blackened grouper, and shrimp pasta. Each dish is served with house-made mashed potatoes and a fresh salad. Their Sunday brunch is also popular, featuring eggs benedict, mimosas, and Bloody Marys.
Specialty Dishes: Crab Cakes, Shrimp Pasta, Blackened Grouper
Atmosphere: Eclectic, lively atmosphere with live music most nights.
Chiringo
Cuisine: Spanish-Inspired Coastal Cuisine
Chiringo offers a taste of Spain right in the heart of Grayton Beach, with a focus on coastal-inspired dishes. Menu highlights include Cuban sandwiches, tacos, and patatas bravas. The laid-back, beachside setting makes it a perfect spot to relax after a day in the sun.
Specialty Dishes: Cuban Sandwich, Patatas Bravas, Fish Tacos
Atmosphere: Casual, beachside dining with a Spanish flair.
Blue Mountain Beach
Cowgirl Kitchen
Cuisine: Southwestern-Inspired Comfort Food
Cowgirl Kitchen offers hearty comfort food with a Southwestern twist. Their menu features items like tacos, burritos, pizza, and brisket nachos. Breakfast is also a
highlight, with options like breakfast burritos, biscuits and gravy, and avocado toast. Cowgirl Kitchen is perfect for a casual meal any time of the day.
Specialty Dishes: Brisket Nachos, Breakfast Burrito, Tacos
Atmosphere: Laid-back and family-friendly, with indoor and outdoor seating.
Blue Mountain Beach Creamery
Cuisine: Ice Cream & Sweet Treats
While not a full restaurant, Blue Mountain Beach Creamery deserves a mention for its delicious homemade ice cream and sorbet. It’s a must-stop for a refreshing treat after a day at the beach. They also offer popsicles, smoothies, and other frozen delights.
Specialty Dishes: Homemade Ice Cream, Sorbet, Popsicles
Atmosphere: Casual and perfect for families.
Seaside
Bud & Alley’s
Cuisine: Farm-to-Table Coastal Cuisine
Bud & Alley’s is one of Seaside’s most iconic dining spots, serving fresh, locally sourced food. Their menu includes a mix of seafood and Southern-inspired dishes like Gulf shrimp, pan-seared grouper, and grilled steaks. The rooftop bar is a favorite spot for sunset views while enjoying a cocktail.
Specialty Dishes: Grouper, Gulf Shrimp, Crab Cakes
Atmosphere: Casual yet refined, with one of the best sunset views along 30A.
Great Southern Café
Cuisine: Southern Fusion
Great Southern Café offers a fusion of Southern flavors with global influences. Popular dishes include Grits à Ya Ya (sautéed shrimp, spinach, and portobello mushrooms served over cheese grits) and Crab Cakes Benedict. Their weekend brunch is a local favorite, offering a wide range of options from omelets to waffles.
Specialty Dishes: Grits à Ya Ya, Crab Cakes, Shrimp & Grits
Atmosphere: Warm and welcoming with a lively atmosphere.
WaterColor
The Wine Bar
Cuisine: American Bistro with European Influence
The Wine Bar in WaterColor offers a refined yet cozy dining experience with an extensive wine list and seasonal menu. Popular dishes include flatbreads, cheese plates, and steak frites. The open-air seating makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a glass of wine.
Specialty Dishes: Steak Frites, Flatbreads, Charcuterie Boards
Atmosphere: Elegant and casual with an emphasis on wine pairing.
FOOW (Fish Out of Water)
Cuisine: Coastal Cuisine with Southern Influence
Located in the WaterColor Inn, FOOW is an upscale, family-friendly restaurant offering locally sourced seafood and Southern comfort food. Signature dishes include Gulf Fish of the Day, shrimp & grits, and slow-cooked pork. The view of the Gulf makes it a special dining experience.
Specialty Dishes: Gulf Fish, Shrimp & Grits, Slow-Cooked Pork
Atmosphere: Upscale yet relaxed with beautiful outdoor seating.
Alys Beach
George’s at Alys Beach
Cuisine: Upscale American with a Global Twist
Nestled in the heart of Alys Beach, George’s offers a sophisticated dining experience with a unique blend of American favorites infused with global flavors. The menu is divided into two sections: "Behave" and "Misbehave," catering to both lighter, healthier options and indulgent, rich dishes. Highlights from the "Behave" side include Grilled Snapper and Kale Caesar Salad, while the "Misbehave" options feature items like Fried Grouper Sandwich and Pimento Cheese Bacon Burger. Their outdoor seating area adds to the upscale beachside vibe.
Specialty Dishes: Grilled Snapper, Pimento Cheese Bacon Burger, Lobster Quesadilla
Atmosphere: Upscale, relaxed beach vibe with a charming outdoor patio perfect for a laid-back yet refined dining experience.
Conclusion
From fresh seafood to Southern comfort food and upscale dining experiences, the top restaurants along 30A showcase the area’s rich culinary diversity. Each community has its own culinary gems that make it a foodie’s dream destination. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal by the beach or an elegant dinner with Gulf views, 30A has something to satisfy every palate.
