Funky Fresh AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar in Grayton Beach

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar is a one-of-a-kind destination that draws in both locals and visitors. Spend a little time there and taste a little food and it’s easy to see why.

Located in the funky fresh, laid-back town of Grayton Beach, AJ’s is a hotspot for food and entertainment in South Walton. The diverse menu and upbeat environment featuring live music and exciting events throughout the year combine to make AJ’s Grayton a one-stop shop for families and fun seekers.

Whatever your taste buds are craving, AJ’s has you covered. The menu is family friendly and includes but is not limited to seafood baskets, fantastic burgers, salads, fish sandwiches, raw and cooked oysters, sushi, southern favorites such as shrimp and grits, and choice cut steaks cooked on the pride and joy of the restaurant - their oak-fired grill.

Head Chef Scott Faulkner and his team just rolled out some new menu items for spring and summer. You’ll now find flatbreads, a decadent and filling lobster ravioli, some exciting new oyster options and more. We were lucky enough to try the Oyster Casino, your favorite bivalve baked with shallots, red pepper, mozzarella cheese and Worcestershire sauce. YUM!

Faulkner accepted the role of kitchen manager two years ago when AJ’s took over the building that housed Pandoras. As it turns out he was the perfect man to take on the challenge.

“Being able to create food and share it with others is an exhilarating feeling,” says Scott.

He encourages his team to channel their creativity and together have come up with a daily “Chef’s Specials” menu: appetizers, lunch, dinner, deserts and the always popular drink specials. You’ll have no problem finding something to quench your thirst and fill you up.

Happy hour... is there a more joyful phrase in all the world? It's possible, but none come to mind. Happy hour begins at 11am and runs through 4pm. Take advantage of $1 off drinks, whether it’s beer, wine or cocktails. Step up your libation game with Power Hour, 4 pm - 6 pm, a 16 oz beer becomes a 24 oz beer, a 6 oz glass of wine becomes a 10 oz glass of wine, and cocktails are served as a double. Sushi happy hour begins at 4pm featuring half price sushi on select rolls until 6pm. AJ’s has this whole happy hour thing down.

You cannot talk about AJ’s without mentioning the entertainment, it’s what they’re all about! Live music and nightlife define this popular watering hole. From karaoke to big bands and acoustic acts, you have the opportunity to experience all kinds of talent within their rustic wood walls. On weekends they double down with live music in the round room from 5-8pm throughout dinner before ramping things up with a full band taking over the main stage around 9pm. Tables are moved to create space for a dance floor that always fills up. Be ready to boogie!

SoWal knows how to Sunday Funday! AJ’s Grayton and Chef Scott invite you to join them for their famous Crawfish Boil every Sunday through mid-June.

“I’m from the Midwest,” says Scott. “ This is a southern tradition I’ve gotten used to pretty quick! I don’t suck the heads but I do eat the tails.”

Boil festivities include live music from noon ‘til close with crawfish being served at 2pm. Be sure to come early because the 5-6 bags they boil always go fast. South Walton favorites, The Picked Pickers take the stage at 4pm. They keep the energy high with a mix of southern rock, blues, R&B, country, bluegrass, and “feel good to the soul” kind of tunes.

AJ's Grayton Beach is located on DeFuniak Street as you enter Grayton Beach from Scenic 30A. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily. You can check out AJ’s website or Facebook Page for upcoming events, like holiday parties, March Madness, and football get togethers. Bring your family and friends to share in the fun.