Walton County Recognizes Three New MICHELIN Recommended Restaurants

[Jen]

Members of the Board of County Commissioners and Walton County Tourism recognized three local restaurants recently named MICHELIN Recommended restaurants in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Florida, presenting each with a commemorative plaque at today’s BCC meeting. The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant in Seaside, Roux 30A in Grayton Beach and Evie Mae’s BBQ in Miramar Beach were each included in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Florida, which was released in May. For the first time, the selections covered the entire state of Florida. The recognition highlights the strength, creativity and variety of Walton County’s culinary scene, from coastal flavors and thoughtful tasting menus to slow-smoked barbecue. "Each [restaurant] has created a dynamic experience that attracts visitors and delights locals alike," said Matt Algarin, Walton County tourism director. "Their recognition by the MICHELIN Guide is a testament not only to their individual achievements, but also to the growing reputation of our destination as one of Florida's premier culinary communities." The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant Located in Seaside, The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant brings bold flavors, coastal inspiration and a festive island atmosphere to South Walton’s dining scene. Created by Chef Nikhil Abuvala, the restaurant blends flavors inspired by the Polynesian islands with the relaxed spirit of a beach-town gathering place. "The MICHELIN Guide is one of the most well-respected guides in the entire world," said Chef Abuvala. "For them to finally get their way over to Florida and to recognize us is probably one of the most amazing things in the entire world for me." In addition to being named MICHELIN Recommended, Daytrader also received the MICHELIN Exceptional Cocktails Award, further recognizing the restaurant’s cocktail program as a key part of the guest experience. Roux 30A Roux 30A in Grayton Beach offers an intimate and thoughtful dining experience in the heart of the community’s Art District. Also led by Chef Abuvala, Roux 30A is built around the idea of “breaking bread,” with shared experiences, multi-course tasting menus and meals designed to bring people together. Chef Abuvala, a longtime contributor to the Gulf Coast culinary scene, was named a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: South. Roux 30A reflects his signature approach to hospitality through seasonal, creative and communal dining. Evie Mae’s BBQ In Miramar Beach, Evie Mae’s BBQ brings Texas-style barbecue to the South Walton dining landscape. Known for cut-to-order meats, satisfying sides and the unmistakable aroma of slow-smoked barbecue, Evie Mae’s offers a casual yet memorable dining experience rooted in craftsmanship and flavor. "Being recognized by the MICHELIN Guide, especially in the first year that the panhandle and the entire state is included, is a huge accomplishment for us that we're proud of," said Arnis Robbins, owner of Evie Mae's. "Opening here has been difficult, and this is just one thing that makes it feel like it's all been worth staying the course." Its MICHELIN Recommended recognition highlights the variety of dining excellence found in South Walton, where standout meals can range from fine dining and inventive cocktails to a perfectly smoked plate of barbecue.

The Walton County Board of County Commissioners recognized Arnis and Mallory Robbins of Evie Mae's, center left, and Chef Nikhil Abuvala of The Daytrader and Roux 30A, center right, for their MICHELIN Recommended restaurants. Walton County is home to 200-plus restaurants, featuring word-class cuisine, award-winning chefs and fresh coastal fare. With these three debuts in the MICHELIN Guide, South Walton continues to strengthen its reputation as a destination where dining is more than a meal, it's an experience. More information about South Walton's culinary experiences is available at visitsouthwalton.com/culinary-experiences. View the full list of Florida's MICHELIN recommended restaurants here.

 

[zom51]

It’s important to understand that the recommended restaurants in this Walton county TDC produced propaganda are not by any stretch Michelin stared restaurants in fact I believe they do not even fit in the actual lower Michelin available ratings of Bib gourmand or even the least prestigious award of Michelin selected restaurants. As an actual local of the area for nearly 35 years I find the area as a whole to be a high quality dining desert.
Of coarse if your a fan of fried or better yet deep fried foods Destin and the surrounding areas will be able to satiate all your desires!

 

[bob bob]

It’s important to understand that the recommended restaurants in this Walton county TDC produced propaganda are not by any stretch Michelin stared restaurants in fact I believe they do not even fit in the actual lower Michelin available ratings of Bib gourmand or even the least prestigious award of Michelin selected restaurants. As an actual local of the area for nearly 35 years I find the area as a whole to be a high quality dining desert.
Of coarse if your a fan of fried or better yet deep fried foods Destin and the surrounding areas will be able to satiate all your desires!

Some of our best dining spots are never going to be in a magazine.

 

[30A Skunkape]

Some of our best dining spots are never going to be in a magazine.

GOOD! They can have the Daytrader, LOL.