Growler Garage Revs Up Craft Beer Scene

Interested in hanging out at a cool spot at the beach with 40 craft beers on tap? Head to the west end of Scenic 30A near Gulf Place to Growler Garage and hang with Mitch and Denise Omar.

The fun couple from Memphis opened their unique beer garden just over a year ago to share their love of beer and bikes. There is nothing subdued about the operation. Mitch's custom-painted motorcycles, guitars, and surfboards jazz the space. Like the creative microbreweries and artists they promote, uniqueness is the name of the game.

New beers are constantly appearing at Growler Garage, many can't be found anywhere else in South Walton.

“This time of year we'll have some heavier, seasonal styles,"  Mitch says. "But we'll always offer beach beer – that body of water across the street isn't going anywhere!”

Located on Scenic 30A adjacent to Ed Walline Beach Access, Growler Garage is in the perfect spot for a “grab and go” operation.

So what exactly is a growler? Growlers are refillable containers for draft beer. At Growler Garage these come in several sizes in a variety of materials. The ceramic and stainless steel varieties will keep beer cold for between 12 and 24 hours. The lesser expensive option of plastic growlers are popular for picking up and hitting the beach to enjoy the sunset.

Growlers of beer are also great for mealtime. Denise frequently uses beer in her chili or to lighten and flavor the batter for fried shrimp or fish. So think “outside the growler” and grab a little extra for use in your favorite recipe! Beer also pairs well with so many dishes. The Omars can suggest that perfect complementary brew – whether a grapefruit IPA with freshly grilled salmon or a Kentucky bourbon barrel ale with your steak dinner.

The Omars like to promote our SoWal area and specialize in local micro breweries. They always carry Idyll Hounds and Grayton Beer labels, as well as Oyster City out of Apalachicola. Indeed, most of their 40 taps feature Florida breweries include Florida companies in Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota.

With covered seating out front for 40, to-go growlers aren't the only way to enjoy beer here. They encourage hanging out too. The vibe is friendly and fun and Mitch and Denise are especially proud of their live music lineup on Thursday and Friday evenings. They feature local artists and encourage them to play original music.  Mitch himself being an artist – each bike and board are one of a kind – he values that perspective with our SoWal musicians.

Here's an idea: consider these guys for your next private event. They've hosted bridal parties for the “pre-game” gathering before rehearsal dinners, milestone birthday celebrations, you name it. While the Growler Garage doesn't serve food they are happy to help your vision come alive and coordinate catering options. Does your group include non-beer drinkers? No worries! The Growler Garage serves wine as well, with three styles of white and one red offered. Not to mention non-alcoholic beverages like root beer, juice and sparkling water.

Get yourself on down to the Growler Garage 30A and experience what all the buzz is about. They are located at 4368 West County Hwy 30A Suite 101 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. Follow them on Facebook to see what's new on tap.