Sittin' on the Dock of The Bay - Good Eats & Good Fun

When South Walton’s newest establishment, The Bay, opened in April of this year, everyone in town was buzzing about it. This beloved location at the foot of the 331 bridge has been home to a few establishments, but found its forever tenant when Chef Jim Shirley renovated the space to open The Bay.

Once settled, they knocked a lotta socks off with great food, friendly service and a killer view. Chef Jim, who also owns Great Southern Café and The Melt Down 30A, among others, is known for putting a twist on classic southern dishes. This time he took the menu to another level when he fused Asian and Southern cuisine and boy did he get it right!
 

 
Get Your Grub On: Good grits! There are so many choices! From classics like Crab Cakes and Fried Oysters to specialty dishes such as Thai-Mollys – a Thai spin on the classic Mexican tamale, Point Washington Rolls – spring rolls with alligator, Faux Ya Ya – a take on shrimp and grits, and The Bomber Burger with salty street sauces, caramelized onions, an Asiago cheese crisp and roasted tomato – this menu is the very definition of yummy. There are always daily specials too, so you will just have to come again and again to try all of Chef Jim’s creations.
 

 
Roll Out… To the Sushi Bar: During dinner hours, take a seat at the sushi bar and watch sushi chefs Jameson and Jon as they roll you what many have called “the best sushi in town”. For the adventurous, try one of the special creations that are must-eats, or stick to the classics like the Spicy Tuna Roll or California Roll.
 

 
Let’s Grab a Drink: The Bay quickly became a favorite local spot to meet up for cocktails. Take clients out, meet a friend, or bring a date for happy hour Monday – Friday from 11-6 and Saturday and Sunday from 4-6. Enjoy half priced wine by the glass and cocktails as well as $1 off draft beer. No we’re not kidding. Speaking of draft beer, The Bay uses the Chill Rite system that dispenses beer at 29 degrees, making the beer at The Bay the coldest in town.
 

 
Sunday Funday at The Bay: Going to Sunday Brunch at The Bay is a no-brainer. From 11-2 you have the choice to order off of the regular lunch menu or the brunch menu, so everyone in your party will find something they love. The $4 mimosas will help you get your Sunday Funday moving in the right direction.
 

Time to Play at The Bay: Go ahead and mark your calendars now, because every Wednesday at The Bay is the Sunset Bonfire Jam with Forrest Williams and friends. The musicians who join Forrest each week are always a delightful surprise! Circle around to listen to the music as you sip a cocktail and hang with friends around the fire.
 

By Land or By Sea, The Bay is Where I Want to Be: You don’t have to drive to The Bay! You can boat, paddleboard or kayak right to the dock or the beach. Instead of driving every time, make an adventure out of it. This is especially convenient for people living north of the bay, because they can skip all of the bridge construction and traffic.

The great news is that The Bay will be around for many, many years to come. You will have a chance to try everything they have to offer. So, grab a seat at the bar, a cozy table on the porch or take a stroll to sit on the dock of The Bay.

Read more and see photos and reviews at SoWal Dining Guide | The Bay.