Loving Lunch at La Cocina in Seacrest

Last week, I joined the SoWal team for lunch at La Cocina. The restaurant has been open in its Seacrest Beach spot for over ten years and is well known for its Latin-inspired cuisine and great margaritas in a festive atmosphere. It's been high on my list of SoWal restaurants to experience, all of my expectations were fulfilled and more.

We started with a few appetizers. Chips, salsa, and queso hold a very special place in my heart and I could not get enough of La Cocina’s authentic flavors. We also odered guacamole and shrimp ceviche. These dishes were so fresh thanks to locally sourced produce, seafood and ingredients used by Chef Eric and team.

Our main courses were just as satisfying as the appetizers. With ten different varieties of tacos, an extensive appetizer menu, and classic entrees like fajitas and enchiladas, I had trouble deciding what to order! I love a good burrito bowl and the chicken burrito bowl at La Cocina was delicious. I was also eyeing the brisket enchiladas on Teresa’s plate. There were so many options to choose from that I can’t wait to go back and try the rest.

The menu offers plenty of gluten free and vegetarian options if that’s more to your tastes. Chef Eric Bartholomew is currently working on creating more entrees and seasonal cocktails for the season, so ask about new items when you visit!

La Cocina offers a Happy Hour menu seven days a week! Specials include $5 margaritas & select wines, $2 off select beers, and half off select appetizers. Monday through Friday, the lunch menu is available from 11:30 am- 3:00 pm, and the dinner menu is offered from 5-9pm. Even though the restaurant is closed from 3-5, the bar is open for happy hour. On Saturdays and Sundays, the restaurant stays open all day from 11:30am-9pm. They do not accept reservations, so plan to come early! Tables are first come, first serve.

La Cocina is located in Seacrest Beach between Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach on Scenic Highway 30A. Follow La Cocina on their Facebook page for news and updates. Check out the menus on their website and don’t forget to ask about upcoming events. Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner! Be sure to check out the SoWal Events Calendar for updates.

La Cocina is part of the Spell Restaurant Group family of several outstanding local places: Edwards, La Crema, Grits & Grind, George’s (South Walton), and SaltwaterGrill (Panama City Beach).