There’s just something special about dining outdoors, especially on the coast. Salt air, shade, and sunshine can elevate a great meal to include great memories as well. We recently asked for your votes to help recognize your favorite places for outdoor dining along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A. Here are the winners and a list of excellent outdoor dining options:
This year, Old Florida Fish House was crowned the champion as Scenic 30A’s hottest spot for outdoor dining. Here you can indulge in excellent seafood and sushi (as well as non-seafood dishes) while basking on the scenic banks of Eastern Lake. Located in Seagrove, this waterside restaurant offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner, a family feast, or a night out on the beach town with friends, Old Florida Fish House sets the stage for a memorable dining experience under the open sky.
Coming in a close second, Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar offers a vibrant and lively indoor-outdoor dining experience.
Situated across Scenic 30A from a public beach access, this very popular eatery boasts spacious decks with views of the sea and of 30A’s pedestrian traffic.
Feast on a variety of seafood dishes, including raw oysters and their signature grouper sandwich, all while enjoying the refreshing coastal breeze. With live music and a relaxed open-air beach atmosphere, Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar is the perfect spot to unwind and indulge.
Bud & Alley’s, Seaside’s iconic sunset hangout, secures the well-deserved third slot on our list of the hottest spots for outdoor dining on 30A. Perched right on the sand, this long-running and quite famous destination restaurant offers a newly remodeled rooftop deck with stunning Gulf (and sunset) views. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch, a romantic dinner, or you’re just sipping cocktails as the sun says adios for another day, Bud & Alley’s always provides Instagram-perfect ambiance.
While the following establishments may not have claimed the most votes this year, they no doubt deserve recognition for their exceptional outdoor dining experiences. Each of these runners-up provides a unique outdoor atmosphere and culinary offerings that make them a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
At the southern foot of the 331 bridge, North Beach Social offers a laid-back waterfront dining experience with a spacious wood-plank patio and stunning bay views. Sit on the shaded porch, bask in some sandy sun, or do a little bit of both. If you love a great beach bar, North Beach is the perfect pick.
Just across the (busy) road from North Beach Social, The Bay also features a picturesque waterfront setting and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Enjoy their innovative coastal cuisine (including sushi), as you dine on their outdoor deck overlooking the ever-gorgeous Choctawhatchee Bay.
Live music backed up by bonfires on the beach provides a magical experience at night.
George’s At Alys Beach is located in a charming wooden home that was transplanted from old Seagrove to the heart of this growing New Urbanist beach community. With screened porches, a charming courtyard and a menu showcasing both naughty and nice dietary options, George’s is the perfect destination for a refined al fresco dining experience.
Great Southern Café is another Jim Shirley signature classic (Shirley is also the culinary genius behind The Bay, North Beach Social, Farm and Fire, the Meltdown on 30A, and more local restaurants). Located in the heart of Seaside, Great Southern Café invites you to enjoy Southern comfort food and Gulf-fresh seafood in a bustling and rustic outdoor patio setting. From their famous shrimp and grits to mouthwatering po’boys to fresh veggie plates, Great Southern Café offers a true taste of Southern hospitality, against the backdrop of 30A’s most bustling beach town.
A long-time WaterColor happy hour favorite, The Wine Bar combines casual outdoor dining with a sophisticated wine bar experience. Sip on fine wines and savor small plates while watching beach life slowly roll, stroll, and peddle right on by.
Originally known as The Hub, the rebranded “Big Chill” offers a laid-back lawn and food truck experience, complete with a jumbotron-style screen and stage (as well as boutique shops). Pick your food, then pick a spot to plunk down for a long evening of family-friendly fun.
In Grayton Beach, Chiringo lures repeat diners (and drinkers) with its vibrant and colorful bar and outdoor patio.
Their menu features coastal-inspired cuisine, cold brews, and refreshing cocktails, perfectly complementing Chiringo’s relaxed beach vibe. Chiringo is a popular spot to see and be seen. Cornhole boards and other outdoor activities add to the fun.
