New food rec's

[DuneLaker]

But, just so you know. Seagars at Sandestin Hilton is in Miramar Beach, not Destin. Even though they are some of the last hold outs to use a "Destin" address, they are not in Destin, and have NEVER been in Destin. They are in South Walton, call it Miramar Beach or Sandestin. It was a strange address quirk that happened for a few years. Maybe because of a few top owners that lived in Destin. But, Seagars, a great steak restaurant, is NOT IN DESTIN, no matter what you might see in any advertising. Seagars is in SoWal. You'll find some of the best dining in Florida and the world in South Walton; Criollas, Cafe 30A, Fish Out of Water, Bud & Alleys, Boragos, etc. etc. etc. Then, even our casual dining is exceptional. You can't go wrong on 30A and South Walton. (fyi BeachBumAggie, Howdy. I'm class of 77)

 

[Allifunn]

Where is Chops 30 A ?? I know about the great steakhouse at SanDestin but do they also have a place on 30 A? Is it new? Just curious, we usually go to Cafe Thirty-A on our nice dinner out during our stay, but now I may change my mind, better yet, go to both!! Also Borago and Criolla's and Fish out of water!! What is a girl to do????? Any further recommendations? I am really curious about the Chops 30A too. Its one week and counting!!!

Chops 30-A is in Seacrest Beach.
All of the mentioned restaurants are wonderful. If you do go to Criolla's I recommend the West Indies Snapper dinner or the New Scallop dinner! The chefs have created some wonderful new tapas and appetizers as well.

 

[Paige]

I'm sorry. I've given Fish Out of Water 4 chances and have yet to be impressed, esp. for the price. Will not go there again. Borago, on the other hand, I love.

 

[rapunzel]

Cafe Tango, Cafe Tango, Cafe Tango. Great food, best atmosphere and service on 30A.

Also, although I have to admit I wasn't expecting it to be in the splurge category, George's was exceptionally good. The watermelon salad with goat cheese and herbs -- to die for. The scallops were fabulous. Others at the table had the lamb and the clay pot chicken. Everyone raved. Worm pasta, a last minute substitute for the frog pasta, was also a hit. The service was amazingly attentive for day 2, as well.

 

[Teresa]

my favorite is and always will be Borago in Grayton Beach. but, another long time fave is Basmati's in Blue Mt Bch. Onano in Rosemary Beach is wonderful as well. Fat Clemenza's is the newest addition to my top 10 list - and it is number one. these are all fine dining, but with casual and funn atmosphere and not at all the fancy artistic tiny dollops of morsels on a plate. just extraordinary food, service and vibe.

 

[tolynne]

Thank you for all of the information..now i am not sure where to go because the list gets longer and longer! My favorite is Borago. I like to go to new places too, so the recommendations I have read will help. We are leaving on the 30th and staying in Blue Mtn. My husband and I will eat out every night while we are there. This is a short mini escape for us--(gotta escape from the medical industry, stress!!) I am looking forward to seeing the beach and eating at the best resturants in the country! I love the beaches of south walton, visit at least 2 times a year, and hope to live there one day!

 

[La Botana]

BR - Good list. My picks differ a little, but yours are all good.

La Botana is fine, but with their prices, I'd include them in the "Splurge" list. Dinner for 2 there Thursday with 3 small plates, 1 side each of beans and rice, 2 Pacificos, 1 glass of wine was $77 after a 20% tip.

Hey Tree Frog, thanks for dining with us, especially if you felt like it was a splurge. We would love for people to feel like it is a fine establishment and each visit an indulgence! When is your birthday? Come in that week and we will give you a free bottle of champagne to add value to your meal and help you celebrate life!

The concept we are striving for is to be a wine bar with small plates to compliment the social experience of enjoying a fine glass over a casual conversation. The menu is priced and portioned to be delightful and affordable without being overwhelming. We have 13 items on the menu and it would cost a whopping $128.50 to order one of each, averaging less than $10 per plate. In a standard dining experience, that would be enough food to serve 6 people appetizers, entrees, and desserts all while allowing them to enjoy a large variety of authentic recipes. At less than $22 per person for a genuine 3 course meal, we hope all of you will come and "splurge!"