9 of the Most Amazing Restaurants Near South Walton, FL
Headed to Florida? Chances are good you’re going to need to eat while you’re there … roughly three times a day, according to #science. The good news is, South Walton is a great place for humans to get their grub on … so unless you’re visiting from Mars (welcome!), you’re going to need a long list of restaurants in South Walton from which to choose. Here are 9 of our favorites.
1. The Shack
104 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
As you’d expect from a restaurant called “The Shack,” this is among the coziest and most laid-back South Walton eateries. Enjoy offerings such as fried green tomatoes, smoked wings, drunken mussels, tacos, and pasta, all with a waterfront view and a massive drinks menu.
If there’s one thing they do well, it’s sides. Meals come with an array of sides, from potatoes and corn to coleslaw and veggies. Trust that you will come hungry and leave happy!
2. Farm & Fire
24200 US-331, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
One of the best South Walton eateries around, Farm & Fire is proud to emphasize a specific kind of fellowship. It takes its inspiration from “meeting places” around the world, from pubs and taverns to tapas spots and izakayas, classic Japanese bars that prioritize both food and friendship.
It’s one of the most unique restaurants in South Walton because it aims to rotate the menu seasonally and culturally, so you never know what you’re going to get. Up for a surprise? Head here.
3. North Beach Social
24200 US-331, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Want to hit up some restaurants in South Walton on rotation? Then North Beach Social is a good one, because it’s located right below Farm & Fire. Enjoy multicultural fusion food at the latter, then head to the former for beautiful drinks on a sunny beachfront, while watching the kids or doggos play.
With a classic pub-style menu, though, it’s a perfect experience on its own.
4. Fish Out of Water
34 Goldenrod Cir, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
If there’s one thing Fish Out of Water does best, it’s ambience. Of all the restaurants in South Walton from which to choose, this one is a truly gorgeous spot, sitting right on the tropical Floridian waters, with white sand beaches glowing in the forefront.
Enjoy ocean breezes and rust-chic surrounds while you grub down on classics such as burgers, fish and chips, cioppino, and oysters.
5. Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar
1875 S County Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Love an oyster bar? Then this may be the winner out of all the restaurants in South Walton, because it’s super bivalve-focused. With multiple choices for both grilled and raw oysters, as well as a specialty option, this is one of the classiest South Walton eateries. They pair their raw offerings with fan favorites such as crab bisque, gumbo, Caesar salad, club sandwiches, and shrimp tacos.
For dessert, try their delicious beignet fries: French fried fritters coated in powdered sugar and served with caramel. If you’re a beignet lover (who isn’t?), this is a can’t-miss.
6. Pompano Joe's in Destin
2237 Hwy 2378, Destin, FL 32550
If you’re willing to drive about half an hour, you’ll find one of the best restaurants in South Walton — or rather, near South Walton. One of their biggest selling points is the Happy Hour from 2 to 4 p.m. every day, when you can get $7.50 margaritas and $3.50 draft beers. Pair these with a range of $10 appetizers, including pork nachos, calamari, and cheese sticks. And hey, dinner’s pretty great too! (Note that different locations may have slightly different menus.
This is true for many South Walton eateries, so try to check ahead of time if you’re dedicated to a certain dish.)
7. La Crema Tapas & Chocolate
38 Main St, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
Who doesn’t love tapas? Monsters, that’s who. (And maybe Martians.) If you’re looking for a meet-and-greet with friends, family, or workplace retreat buddies, then a tapas bar is always going to rank among the best restaurants in South Walton.
Try the cheese tasting, crab cakes, or classic Patatas Bravas. Feel like dessert? La Crema offers a huge range of chocolate options as well. Yum.
8. Bud and Alley's
2236 E County Rd 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Like Fish Out of Water, Bud and Alley's offers incredibly beautiful beachfront dining and a lovely menu. Bring the family, meet up with friends, or come for a romantic evening, but either way, bring your appetite.
This award-winning restaurant offers a reserve wine list, a stunning cocktail menu, and bar food for the evening crowd. For those who want to fuel up earlier in the day, you’ll find well-tailored breakfast and lunch menus.
9. George's at Alys Beach
30 N Castle Harbour Dr., Alys Beach, FL 32461
Offering both brunchy and dinner dining, George's at Alys Beach is a beautiful place to go if you want to branch out vis-à-vis restaurants in South Walton. Located about 20 minutes away, it compares favorably with other South Walton eateries, offering an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere and menu.
With an emphasis on local ingredients and the “freshest seafood available,” according to their website, where do you go wrong?
Need More Help? Ask the Experts
Scenic Stays is proud to offer a wide range of beautiful beach rentals to make your South Walton experience the best it can be. Their properties are fully outfitted with all the amenities you’d expect in a vacation home, complete with walkways to the beach, heated private pools, and luxuries such as rain showerheads.
Although you’ll find top-of-the-line appliances in each Scenic Stays space, you’ll doubtless want to eat out as well, and they are happy to lend our expertise in the arena. All you have to do is get in touch today!
