87 Central Square Grand Opening In Seaside

 Northwest Florida chef and restaurateur Jim Shirleyhas announced the opening of 87 Central Square on November 9, 2023, bringing an exciting addition to the vibrant culinary scene in Seaside.

This new wine bar, dining, and entertainment destination takes inspiration from the world’s most charming outdoor gathering spots, offering guests a unique blend of Southern hospitality and global allure.

“This venture is truly a labor of love, and I couldn’t be more excited that 87 Central Square will make its debut coinciding with the 31st Annual Seeing Red Wine Festival, an event that holds a special place in our history,” Chef Jim expressed. “Beyond this opening, we have some intriguing plans to further explore new possibilities for the restaurant.”

The grand opening of 87 Central Square will kick off the highly anticipated Seeing Red Wine Festival weekend, where Chef Jim Shirley’s team is the sole culinary presence at the Al Fresco Reserve Tasting on November 10. The new 87 Central Square will also host this year’s Celebration of Bubbles on November 12—a fitting event for a restaurant with the tagline, “In vino veritas. In Campanie felicitas,” or “In wine, there is truth. In champagne, happiness.”

Sparkling wine enthusiasts will join Chef and his team for champagne, cava, prosecco, and a selection of delectable brunch offerings. This marks the 18th Annual Celebration of Bubbles hosted by Chef Jim Shirley, and tickets can be purchased here.

87 Central Square is a new destination under the umbrella of Shirley’s landmark restaurant, The Great Southern Café, and an homage to the beloved former 45 Central Wine Bar in Seaside. Nestled between The Great Southern Café and Sundog Books, 87 Central is situated in the space previously occupied by The Chicken Shack and will soon include a covered dining space, a circular bar, and many other exciting features. Inspired by the terraced bars of Amsterdam, Italian piazze, courtyards of New Orleans, and other global outdoor cafes, 87 Central Square promises to be a hub for unforgettable outdoor experiences and community events.

In creating a new gathering spot perfect for special events, everyday dining, and indulging in fine wine, beer, and craft cocktails, this destination fills a niche for an outdoor casual venue with award-winning food and one of the most robust wine lists on 30A. Guests will delight in an exceptional, thoughtfully curated drink selection while enjoying a menu that pays homage to Chef Jim Shirley’s classics and embraces beloved “happy hour” dishes from across the USA and Europe.

“With 87 Central Square, we aim to provide a much-needed escape for adults visiting Seaside and offer the local community a welcoming retreat,” says Madison Shirley, Vice President of Jim Shirley Enterprises. “We’re eager to bring people together in celebration of food and drink, including our famous paella on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

Chef Jim Shirley invites all to come and share in the experience of 87 Central Square, an extraordinary blend of culinary excellence, top-tier wines, and a vibrant, communal atmosphere.