South Walton Beach Dining

With “fresh from the Gulf” seafood and Southern-inspired flavors, dining along the beach is simply delectable. Beaches of South Walton restaurants are among the best in the state and sampling the local fare is as much a draw as the beautiful white-sand beaches.

Whether it’s feasting on lobster tail at Criolla’s in Santa Rosa Beach or enjoying family-style barbeque at Jim N’ Nick’s at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, dining at the beach is as varied and delicious as offerings from any big city. Not to worry, peel and eat shrimp and crab claws are always on the menu at local favorites like Bud & Alley’s in Seaside. But now many eateries challenge the stereotypical beach nosh such as Café Provence with its gourmet French cuisine, the creative Italian dishes at Onano Neighorhood Café in Rosemary Beach or Basmati’s Asian Cuisine & Sushi with its Japanese-influenced entrees.

While patronizing homegrown restaurants is preferred, South Walton is also home to several upscale chains including Fleming’s Steakhouse and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro at Sandestin’s Grand Boulevard.