30A boasts a wide range of dining options that cater to every taste and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual, laid-back meal with a touch of local charm or you’re seeking an upscale dining experience, 30A restaurants definitely have you covered. From cozy bistros to fine dining establishments, we’ve enjoyed tons of different culinary experiences and are excited to share a roundup of a few of our recent favorites (and favorites of our local friends and family too!). Let us know in the comments if you have another great option for us to add! Below our list, check out a few of our favorite recent family portraits – both posed and candid portraits from sunset sessions (a great pre-dinner option to capture your family memories!).
Breakfast:
Canopy Road Cafe – Founded in Tallahassee, this small chain recently expanded to it’s newest location in 30A. New to Rosemary Beach, Canopy Road Cafe offers both savory and sweet breakfast options, as well as a great lunch selection. Open 7 days a week, they are a great option for groups of all sizes. And they love our furry friends too, with pet-friendly seating available on their outdoor patio.
Blue Mountain Bakery – Situated in the heart of 30A, Blue Mountain Bakery is a go-to spot for those who appreciate the craft of baking. Offering freshly baked bread and pastries, this cozy bakery warmly invites visitors to savor the homemade goodness in every bite. Be sure to visit early in the day – they close by 2pm (and are closed all day on Sundays)!
Crackings – Crackings, a charming family-owned eatery, is your go-to destination for benedicts, omelets, pastries, sandwiches, and more. Nestled in the heart of the bustling Uptown Grayton, this cozy corner restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its delectable menu. They are open for breakfast, brunch, and lunch Tuesday through Sunday from 8am-1pm.
Perfect Pig –Whether you’re a fan of perfectly crispy bacon or mouthwatering quiche, the Perfect Pig has it all. With its warm ambiance and tasty breakfast offerings, it’s the ideal place to start your day in Seagrove. Don’t miss out on this local gem when hunting for a great breakfast!
Donut Hole – Combining the charm of a bakery and the comfort of a diner, The Donut Hole offers a diverse menu that spans from hearty breakfast options to satisfying lunch and dinner choices. If you plan to visit on a Sunday or during the peak season, be prepared for a bit of a wait, as it’s a popular spot. There are a few locations in the area, and along 30A their newest spot is in Inlet Beach.
Fish Out Of Water – Whether you’re starting your day with a sunrise over the Gulf or simply looking for a relaxing morning meal, Fish Out of Water offers a unique and inspired setting that ensures a memorable breakfast. Located at the WaterColor Inn, the views and vibe are a great way to start your day.
Lunch:
Amici – Amici in 30A is where the joy of dining meets a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a diverse menu featuring Italian and American cuisine, this restaurant is a haven for food lovers.
Gallions – For a memorable dining experience in 30A, make sure to check out Gallions, known for its fantastic long lunches. With a menu that offers both local and international flavors, this restaurant invites guests to unwind and savor every moment. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Gallions promises a leisurely lunch that you won’t forget.
Chanticleer Eatery – Nestled in Santa Rosa Beach, Chanticleer is a fantastic dining option that caters to both lunch and dinner. The lunch menu features awesome salads and sandwiches, while dinner gets even more exciting with steak, pasta, burgers, and more. You can kick back inside or enjoy the outdoor vibes, plus, they’re totally cool with your furry friends on the patio!
Edwards Fine Food & Wine – Edwards Fine Food & Wine is a hidden gem in 30A, known for its exceptional culinary creations and a remarkable wine selection. Be sure to try their signature dish, the perfectly seared scallops! They are open for lunch Wednesday through Sunday, but dinner only on Monday and Tuesdays so be sure to check the hours on the day you choose to visit.
Idyll Hound Proper – For a casual yet exceptional dining experience in 30A, Idyll Hound Proper is a must-visit gastropub. In addition to a full bar with craft beer & cocktail options, they’re known for serving up some of the juiciest, mouthwatering burgers around!
Fonville Press – Open daily from 7 am to 8 pm, Fonville Press welcomes you for a charming day that spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A reliable lunchtime go-to for us, Fonville Press offers a diverse menu featuring oven-fired specialty flatbreads, fresh seafood, deli sandwiches, and an enticing selection of wine and beer.
Papa Surf Burger Bar – Another great burger option that feels both lively and laid-back, Papa Surf Burger Bar’s signature surf-inspired burgers burst with flavor. With a beachy vibe, it’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate great food and good times.
Dinner:
Ambrosia – Ambrosia is a long-standing establishment in 30A, celebrated for its diverse menu, which includes a fusion of Mediterranean and American cuisine. Known for prime seafood and steaks, they also offer decadent desserts and exquisite wine selections. Their Caymus Happy Hour menu is available Monday through Thursday from 4pm-6pm and is a great way to sample what they have to offer!
Blue Mabel – Blue Mabel, a standout dining establishment in 30A, is unique for its dedication to creating a farm-to-table experience. They take pride in sourcing high-quality, locally grown ingredients to craft dishes that celebrate the flavors of the region. This commitment to freshness and sustainability sets Blue Mabel apart as a dining destination that truly embraces the essence of 30A’s local food culture.
The Citizen – Discover the coastal-inspired delights of The Citizen in Alys Beach—our newest dinner favorite! This seaside tavern, nestled along scenic Highway 30A, offers a menu driven by local and seasonal ingredients. Whether you prefer the vibrant bar, the intimate raw bar, or the spacious dining room, The Citizen promises fresh and wood-fired flavors that capture the essence of coastal cuisine. It’s a must-try for a delightful dinner experience in Alys Beach.
Pescado – Nestled in the heart of Rosemary Beach, Pescado offers a dining experience that’s truly extraordinary. This upscale restaurant is known for its exquisite seafood dishes and an ambiance that’s equally as impressive. What sets Pescado apart is its stunning rooftop bar, where you can savor your favorite drinks with a view that’s nothing short of fabulous. Reservations at Pescado include dining-room seating only, but for those eager to enjoy the magic of the rooftop bar, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Whether you’re seeking a memorable dining experience or simply want to soak in the breathtaking Rosemary Beach views, Pescado has you covered.
The Red Bar – The Red Bar in Grayton Beach made a triumphant return in July 2020 after a fire sadly took their original building. When you visit, parking is a breeze – just head to the county lot about 100 yards north of 30A on Hwy 283 and hop on the shuttle. This iconic spot is celebrated for its live music, delectable cuisine, and a stellar lineup of cocktails that keep the good times rolling. They are a great option for either lunch or dinner!
Nanbu Noodle Bar – Nanbu is Japanese for “southerner” and this recent new restaurant to Grayton Beach is a welcome addition! From poke bowls to ramen and more, Nanbu offers a great selection of Japanese favorites in a welcoming atmosphere. You can even order online for pickup (or delivery if you’re close!).
Old Florida Fish House – This seafood restaurant not only offers delectable dishes but also provides a unique setting for guests to dine while enjoying breathtaking sunset views. It’s a place where you can savor fresh seafood with a side of nature’s beauty, making it a memorable experience for those seeking a blend of great food & great views!
Great Southern Cafe – Great Southern Cafe in 30A is renowned for its signature dish, the Grits à Ya Ya. This tasty creation features a creamy blend of Gulf shrimp, sautéed spinach, Portobello mushrooms, and applewood-smoked bacon, all served over a bed of smoked Gouda cheese grits. It’s a must-try for those looking to experience the unique and unforgettable flavors of Southern cuisine with a Gulf Coast twist!
George’s at Alys Beach– George’s is an upscale, casual restaurant located in the architectural wonderland of 30A – Alys Beach. It has a striking white interior and fits right in with the upscale vibe of Alys Beach. Their menu features dishes made with local, organic produce and fresh, gulf seafood.
Roux 30A – Tucked away in the art district of Grayton Beach, this restaurant offers an upscale atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Although it’s not right on the beach, it’s well worth the visit for those who appreciate beautiful scenery and exceptional food.
Surfing Deer – Legend has it sometime in the 1940s, a man named Cube McGee developed Seagrove Beach into a vibrant community. He was a local celebrity of sorts, known for his pet deer, Bambi. To honor his spirit, the Hartley Restaurant Group owners named their Seagrove Beach restaurant Surfing Deer. With a menu that captures the essence of the beach, visitors can dine, make memories, and enjoy the beauty of the area. Their pan-seared grouper is a great option!
The Vue –The Vue 30A is where it’s at if you’re looking for awesome views and great eats in 30A. This place sits right at the top, giving you breathtaking panoramic sights of the Gulf. And the food? Well, it’s just as amazing as the scenery. From fresh seafood to juicy steaks, they’ve got it all covered. Plus, the vibe is super relaxed, making it a perfect spot to chill with friends and family while soaking in those incredible Gulf views.
The Daytrader Tiki Bar and Restaurant – The Daytrader Tiki Bar and Restaurant is your 30A spot for tropical vibes and mouthwatering drinks. Right by the beach, it’s the perfect place to unwind and sip on your favorite cocktails. They’ve got a menu loaded with all kinds of tasty drinks, and you can chill on the deck with the sea breeze in your hair. So if you’re into laid-back beachfront hangs with a side of delicious sips, this place is a must-visit!
Roux 30A– Roux 30A has been a longtime favorite of ours and their atmosphere is hard to beat! A more upscale dining experience, Roux 30A is tucked away in the art district of Grayton Beach – not right on the beach, but well worth it and close enough to get your fill of beautiful scenery and great food.
Bud and Alley’s – Bud and Alley’s is a super cool spot right by the water in Seaside, along 30A. They have a more casual atmosphere, a rooftop bar, and plenty of great menu choices. We’ve even experienced a few weddings and great events hosted there!
Cafe 30A – Located in Seagrove Beach, Cafe 30A is open for dinner daily at 5 pm. Reservations are highly recommended for this fine dining cafe, and they have a beautiful enclosed side porch that is perfect if you have a larger group! Cafe 30A also has a reputation for its exquisite wine selection, making it an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts seeking the perfect pairing for their upscale meal.
As you explore 30A, you’re sure to find some other great dining options with views of the beautiful Emerald Coast and/or an unbeatable atmosphere. When you find some that we haven’t shared, let us know! Leave a comment – we’d love to add it to the list!
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