Food

Gulf Place is a happening place! What with all the cool restaurants, artists, shops and events, but perhaps the coolest of all is the Third Thursday Wine Walkabout from 5-7 p.m.

The SoWal crew went to lunch at Basmati's Asian Cuisine Tuesday and it was as good as ever.

We're there so often we can all order for each other.  Lisa usually orders the Thai Chicken Salad wrap which is filled with fresh chicken salad, Thai dressing and avacado flanked by fresh watermelon and a side of Asian slaw. They seem to have the inside hook up on fresh watermelon year round.

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.

One constant in SoWal is that things are always changing in Seaside.

The constant evolution of the town keeps things interesting and vibrant. Loyal visitors who come back year after year appreciate that some things never change - the generous and friendly beach attitude, great shopping and dining - and the BEACH!

Driving through Seaside on Scenic 30A, SoWal newbies are often surprised and delighted when they first spot Seaside’s gleaming Airstream Row.

The newest sleek silver kitchen is on the east end of the row - Crêpes du Soleil. It's owned and operated by wife and husband Liz & Jay Eichelberger, and “Chef Rob” Masone, formerly a caterer in Charlotte, NC.

One of the biggest specialty retailers in the world, Williams Sonoma, is set to open in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin this spring. The company is known for their kitchenware including professional quality cookware, small kitchen appliances, cooking utensils, decor and gourmet foods. The announcement comes on the heels of a banner year for the town center, which opened seven new retail stores and restaurants in 2018.

Mardi Gras festivities kick off this weekend in South Walton and along the Emerald Coast of Florida with parades, live music and parties in some of our beach towns, restaurants and bars. From Stinky's Fish Camp's Mardi Gras Headquarters, Baytowne's Mardi Gras Dog Parade and Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash, to Mardi Gras Masquerade & Fireworks Festival at Destin Commons and outdoor concerts and rooftop parties. Grab your beads and head out to celebrate Mardi Gras at the beach from now til Fat Tuesday. Laissez bon temps rouler!

We adore our delicious lunchtime breaks at our local SoWal eateries.

When the staff lunches, it's time for us to check in with our partners, talk about upcoming plans, and just catch up. Last Friday Lisa and I decided to pop into Local Catch to see what’s new.

Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar is excited to announce two fantastic new events coming to the Rosemary Beach restaurant. First, is the launch of Sunset Social, a fresh take on happy hour. Every Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. guests can enjoy items from the "Small Bites" and "Raw Bar" menu for $10 as well as select cocktails and wine by the glass for $8.

The eighth annual 30A Wine Festival returns to the beautiful community of Alys Beach Wednesday, February 20 through Sunday, February 24, 2019.