Food

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort recently appointed Eric Chopin to the position of Executive Chef. Chopin is a professional chef with more than 30 years of experience. Born in Guerande, Brittany, France, Chopin has been seasoning his way through the cooking world in Europe and America since the early age of 14. He began cooking in Paris as a charcutier and is classically trained in the art of making delicious, unique pastries and savory masterpieces, while always respecting their natural flavors and textures.

Sunday Brunch in SoWal is an ode to our Southern roots. We love to enjoy a laid back, lazy day while spending quality time with those we love. There’s nothing better sharing a great meal with family and friends, sipping on cool drinks, and dancing your way into a new week. That’s why we’re bringing you this SoWal List full of insider tips on where to enjoy Sunday Brunch.

The bell rang loud and clear yesterday as a 30-year Seaside tradition made the short hop over to the waterfront in Panama City Beach. A convoy headed out from SoWal to take a 200-pound vintage bell from an old steam train and hoist it into place at the new Bud & Alley's Waterfront Restaurant overlooking Grand Lagoon.

Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant staff, loyal local patrons and foodie fans from far and wide are invited to parade in a motorcade processional from Bud & Alley’s in Seaside to deliver the “ceremonial sunset bell” to the new sister location on Grand Lagoon in Panama City Beach. Owner Dave Rauschkolb will lead the way.

Grayt Coffee Hour is a good time filled with live music right on Scenic 30A in the heart of Grayton Beach! It happens on Tuesday and Thursday evenings every week at Grayt Coffee House in Grayton Beach. Local and regional singer/songwriters perform in the listening room at Grayt Coffee from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Local Catch Bar and Grill is kicking off summer in SoWal with new menu items, drink specials, and a lively music schedule. Existing beloved fare will stay true to its delicious form - like the SoWal Staff favorite fried chicken sandwich dripping with mouthwatering buffalo sauce. Here’s the insider’s guide to what’s happening now at Local Catch.
 

Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse has been a local and tourist favorite for a long time now….on May 13, 2014, they will celebrate their 20th year with free food, music by Bryan Kennedy, and plenty of “back yard love” for all to enjoy.
 

La Cocina Mexican Grill and Bar will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a block party on Sunday May 4 from 2-7pm. The restaurant’s courtyard will come alive with music, face painting, family friendly games, drink specials, and chef inspired dishes.

Drink specials include $5 house margaritas, $7 Cazadores Blanco margaritas, and $3 Mexican-imported beers. Chef Ben Lillard has crafted specialty dishes for the occasion, such as:        

Sandestin Wine Festival takes place every April throughout The Village of Baytowne Wharf. The event is the most established and continuously running wine festival on the Gulf coast and known as the “Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals.” Always a picture perfect event complete with white tents, grand wine tastings, culinary experiences and live music.

Guests are invited to uncork some fun in the sun and see why the Sandestin Wine Festival is one of the most beloved wine festivals on the coast. Four days of unique events will include the following: 

One of our favorite South Walton restaurants is generously hosting another great event to benefit one of our beloved local charities. Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant on Scenic 30A in Seaside will host a special wine dinner on Thursday, May 8, 2014 at 7 p.m. featuring a menu especially prepared by celebrity chef and author Donald Link of New Orleans.