Sandestin announced that The Elephant Walk restaurant will soon return to the shores of South Walton.

From 1985-2003, The Elephant Walk was a very popular and respected fine-dining restaurant that operated where Finz is now located. The Elephant Walk had a very loyal following.

Owners Tom Rice and Wayne Lewis are prominent restaurateurs, owning several well-known restaurants including The Marlin Grill in the Village of Baytowne Wharf.

“Our goal is to bring back this great restaurant tradition with extraordinary cuisine, fine service and beautiful views it was once known for,” said Rice. “This beautiful location, combined with our culinary and restaurant management experience will result in an outstanding restaurant experience.”

Under the new ownership team, the restaurant will revive some of its treasured traditions, including popular menu items like Grouper Elizabeth.

Plans include a soft opening period for dinner beginning late March, in time for the busy spring break season. The official opening and the beginning of lunch service will be this May.

“We are pleased to work with Tom and Wayne because they are trusted business leaders in the community, and we’re delighted that The Elephant Walk will once again be part of our Gulf-front experience,” said Mark Hodgdon, general manager of the resort.