Category: Dining

Honoring the HWY 331 Person of the Year for Transforming Walton County’s Cultural and Culinary Landscape

Where white sand beaches meet tranquil dune lakes, Chef Jim Richard has become a cornerstone of creativity and community in Walton County, Florida. As the inaugural HWY 331 Person of the Year, Chef Jim has redefined what it means to be a leader by blending culinary artistry with a passion for fostering cultural connections.

The visionary behind Stinky’s Fish Camp, Stinky’s Bait Shack, and Red Fish Taco, Jim Richard has done more than elevate the dining scene. He has built a thriving ecosystem where chefs, fishermen, and musicians converge to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Walton County life.

Fostering Connections Beyond the Kitchen

A Louisiana native with deep roots in soulful cuisine, Jim brought his culinary mastery to Walton County and seamlessly integrated it with the area’s natural beauty and artistic spirit. His leadership extends far beyond his restaurants, as he has spent years cultivating relationships with fishermen, chefs, and musicians—not as collaborators, but as family.

For more than a decade, Stinky’s has hosted its renowned spring and fall fishing tournaments, which draw anglers of all skill levels for camaraderie and connection. These tournaments also serve a higher purpose, raising funds for the South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA), an organization Jim helped found. SWARA’s mission is to build and maintain artificial reefs along Walton County’s coastline, fostering marine habitats and enhancing recreational opportunities.

Celebrating Music and Culture: The SwampWriter Music Festival

Among Jim’s many contributions to the community, the annual SwampWriter Music Festival at Stinky’s Bait Shack stands out as a beacon of cultural celebration. Held every January over Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend, this five-day festival is a free, saltwater-soaked celebration of local and regional musical talent.

Now entering its 15th year, the SwampWriter Music Festival captures the spirit of “Old School 30A,” offering an accessible and authentic experience for music lovers. More than a dozen musicians perform on the iconic stage at Stinky’s Bait Shack, a venue that blends the charm of a dive bar with the soul of a music hall.

A Commitment to the Arts: Red Fish Taco and the 30A Songwriters Festival

In addition to hosting SwampWriters, Jim Richard and his team at Red Fish Taco play an integral role in the prestigious 30A Songwriters Festival. Each year, Red Fish Taco transforms into an intimate listening room where artists and audiences connect through the stories behind the songs. This collaboration underscores Jim’s dedication to supporting the Cultural Arts Alliance’s mission of fostering artistic expression along Florida’s Emerald Coast.

A Legacy of Connection

“Jim Richard’s work exemplifies the spirit of Walton County—creativity, connection, and a deep appreciation for shared experiences,” said Kerri Parker, Founder of HWY331.com. “Through his leadership, he’s not only strengthened our community but also left a lasting impact on its cultural identity.”

As the SwampWriter Music Festival prepares to return January 16–20, 2025, Jim’s legacy continues to grow. With events that celebrate music, fishing, and community, his work reminds us all of the power of connection and creativity.

Connect with Chef Jim Richard on the HWY 331 Podcast

Chef Jim Richard shares more about the SwampWriter Music Festival and his ongoing contributions to Walton County on the next episode of the HWY 331 Podcast. Subscribe on your favorite streaming platform to be notified when the episode drops.

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Jennifer Hall is a single fur baby mom who loves to cook and entertain. She traveled all over the United States before finally deciding Panama City Beach was the place to be, relocating to the area in 2014.

Jennifer has always loved to cook, teaching herself when she was young. Eventually, this love of cooking grew from a passion to a business. When she first moved to Florida, Hall opened up The Shack  Pub and Grub, a food truck concept.  She would go set up at bars that didn’t serve food and host a Steak Night or Whole Hog Roast that eventually evolved into Mystery Murder Dinner Shows. These proved to be a big hit. Jennifer took this concept to breweries, bars, restaurants and other local hot spots like Captain Anderson’s Event Center. Then Hurricane Michael hit and business slowed to a stop. Jennifer thought outside the box and decided to start making dessert bacon, bacon caramelized in brown sugar and spices, and package it in decorative holiday tins which she sold to restaurants and bars for the holidays. This effort expanded into smoked holiday hams, which are smoked over twenty-four hours and topped with a bourbon brown sugar glaze.

Eventually, through word of mouth, Jennifer came to be known as the ham lady or the bacon lady. So in 2019, she did the next logical thing: she founded Gatherings by Jennifer.  “Everyone loved my cooking, and I have hosted big events of 250 people or more, as well as small, romantic home-cooked meals for two,” she says.  “I’ve taught myself to cook pretty much anything, and it has helped me venture out into different venues.”

Though her specialty foods are equally popular at weddings and corporate functions, she also hosts holiday parties that are mystery-themed.  Think Bad Santa or Ugly Sweater Office party with an assortment of great food and a “whodunnit” to solve before evening’s end.

In addition to Jennifer’s catering business, with the help of some great friends, she also started Emerald Coast Bonfires, and it’s been a huge hit. Emerald Coast Bonfires is equipped to handle all beach bonfire needs whether it’s a fun-filled family outing, a romantic night under the stars or a majestic beach wedding anywhere along the Emerald Coast.

For more information find Jennifer at  Www.emeraldcoastbonfires.com and Www.gatheringbyjennifer.com.

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By Lori Leath Smith

I had dined here before. But, this was different. Fresh. Exhilarating yet peaceful. Familiar yet new at the same time. Already well-known for its upscale ambiance, inventive menu and uninterrupted view of the emerald green waters, Vue on 30A is a favorite for locals and visitors alike seeking a memorable culinary escape surrounded by its magical view.

From the moment we walked through its front door, we were greeted by the vast, sparkling expanse of the Gulf, stretching out just beyond the windows. And while the sight alone is invigorating, the ambiance manages to remain serene, blending excitement with tranquility.

We sat indoors in front of the expansive windows that allowed us the breathtaking backdrop of the waves meeting the shore—it never gets old, and absolutely enhanced our dining experience.

With two new chefs at the helm, Executive Chef Christopher Mayhue and Sous Chef Dalbert Hughes, the Vue’s revised menu embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing ingredients from local providers that highlight our region’s rich, fresh flavors. However, it also includes items and ingredients influenced by the chefs’ own heritages and favorites for a diverse menu that reflects both the region’s southern roots as well as international influences that create a blend of American, French and Italian cuisine.

Throughout our casual lunch, every detail felt thoughtfully curated. I found some tried and true staples combined with unique ingredients you wouldn’t normally think to combine. Throughout our meal, I just kept thinking, somehow, these chefs know how to take American favorites, make them their own and even better.

To get started, we enjoyed signature appetizers and local favorites: House Smoked Tuna Dip (did I say wow?) and Seared Tuna Tabasco. (Seared tuna is something I order a lot and this was beyond amazing.)

For the main course, I had one of Chef Mayhue’s favorites—NOLA Style BBQ Shrimp, his Cajun-inspired dish with a Gulf Coast flare, served with melt-in-your-mouth garlic cheddar biscuits. It did indeed remind me of New Orleans, but with Chef Mayhue’s magical twist!

For those who are more into “southern comfort” foods, we also tried the “Niceville Hot” Chicken Sandwich, a quite tantalizing modern update.

Another must-try starter is the Ahi Tuna Nachos—the crispy wontons provided a unique twist on the classic nacho concept, and were topped with sushi-grade tuna, avocado and a tangy wasabi cream. The Blue Crab Bisque was smooth and flavorful exemplifying the kitchen’s attention to seafood craftsmanship. And the filet mignon was impressive, melting in my mouth it was so tender!

It seems each dish tells a story of the local landscape with drops of the chefs’ personalities enhancing the flavor of every bite, while tailored to complement the natural beauty that surrounds the Vue on 30A.

Even the dessert menu provides memorable options such as one of my favorites, the classic Key Lime Pie, each bite tangy and sweet.

Of course, there is an impressive drink menu, from craft cocktails to a well-curated wine list. Signature cocktails, such as the Sunset Margarita or the Seaside Mule, pair wonderfully with the coastal cuisine. For wine enthusiasts, the wine list spans regions and varieties, featuring everything from crisp whites ideal for seafood pairings to full-bodied reds for heartier fare.

And don’t worry; the waitstaff is well-versed in the menu and wine pairings.

Stepping into Vue on 30a felt like revisiting an old friend who’s picked up just the right touch of intrigue. Familiar and approachable, yet renewed, this tantalizing sensory experience left me enchanted all over again…one that still lingers. Visit vueon30a.net

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November 28, 2024 10:30 a.m.

Link to reserve: https://www.roux30a.com/events

Need to Know

Reservations are fully refundable up to 7 days before the event, but cancellations made after this period are non-refundable. Due to limited seating, kids are priced the same as adults—every chair counts!

About

Roux 30a is thrilled to continue its new Thanksgiving tradition with an in-person, family-style dining experience. We invite you to join our Roux 30a family for a memorable holiday meal. This year, we are offering hourly seatings from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for $100 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Pricing does not include beverages. Guests will enjoy unlimited servings of a house brined slow-roasted all-natural turkey from Joyce Farms, accompanied by a spread of holiday favorites such as homestyle dressing, cornbread dressing, traditional veggies, gravy, cranberry chutney, pies, and much more. Let us take care of everything while you relax and savor a delicious, stress-free Thanksgiving meal with your loved ones. Don’t miss the chance to experience this cherished Roux 30a holiday tradition.

New Years at Roux 30A

December 31, 2024 6 p.m.

Link to reserve: https://www.roux30a.com/events

Need to Know: This ticket is fully refundable until 7 days before the event. After that, all sales are final, and the ticket becomes non-refundable.

About

Join us as we close out the year with a specially curated 5-course dinner featuring all of our favorite ingredients and dishes. Each course is crafted to reflect the flavors and creativity we love most, creating an unforgettable evening of indulgence. To cap off the night in true celebratory fashion, we’ll raise a glass together with a champagne toast at the end of the meal, welcoming the new year with style and gratitude.

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‘Tis the season! Famed holiday pop-up bars Miracle and Sippin’ Santa return to Northwest Florida’s only location at the DayTrader in Seaside, Florida for its second season in 2024!

Twinkling Lights, Tropical Delights, and Holiday Cheer in Sight—Savor Festive Cocktails One Sip at a Time at Seaside’s Tiki-Style Restaurant this Holiday Season to Create the Ultimate Christmas Party Along Iconic Highway 30-A. 

The magic of the holiday season is just around the corner, and with it, The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant is thrilled to bring the Miracle Pop-up Bar experience back to South Walton County’s beloved Hwy 30-A in Northwest Florida this holiday season.

Opening on Wednesday, November 20,  Miracle at The Daytrader Tiki Bar &  Restaurant guests can anticipate  over-the-top festive decor and delicious,  inventive Christmas-themed cocktails.  Miracle and Sippin’ Santa holiday pop-up  bars excitedly announce their return with  festive cocktails in signature holiday  glassware, over-the-top decor, and enough  holiday spirits to melt the heart of even the  frostiest grinch.

The concept for Miracle was born in 2014 at its flagship location in New York City, and since then, the pop-up bar has expanded to every corner of the United States with locations worldwide in Canada, Europe, Asia and Central America. The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant is delighted to partner with Miracle and feature fan favorites such as the Christmapolitan, Christmas Carol Barrel, Snowball Old-Fashioned, Yippie Ki Yay Mother F****r!, Jingle Balls Nog, Nice Shot and Naughty Shot on a themed menu in addition to its ever-popular cocktail offerings. New this year is the Stocking Stuffer, Christmasaurus, Christmas Antler, Santa Slide, and Run Run Reindeer cocktails.

From November 20 to December 30, make plans to swing by Miracle at The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant for an extraordinary themed experience featuring a decked-out atmosphere and Christmas cocktails that are sure to get even the grouchiest Grinch into the holiday spirit. Further, on Friday,

December 6 from 5-10 p.m., stop in as the restaurant hosts its second annual Ugly Sweater Party complete with prizes for the best-dressed guests and Miracle Bar fun for all. The restaurant is open daily this season from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.

At the end of this year’s holiday season, Miracle will donate 10% of all proceeds from the sale of SantaPants, Christmas Carol Barrel and Santa Heads signature glassware to the Seva Foundation, a global nonprofit eye care organization that works with local communities around the world.

ABOUT THE DAYTRADER TIKI BAR & RESTAURANT | SEASIDE, FLORIDA 

Escape the fever-pitch of phone calls for the fever dream of island fantasia and otherworldliness at The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant in sunny Seaside, Florida, one of 16 acclaimed beach neighborhoods in iconic South Walton. Chef-owner Nikhil Abuvala’s fourth concept in Northwest Florida allows guests to clock out of reality and clock into a dining experience characterized by locally sourced seafood, ingredient-driven fare and an uncompromising ‘out of office’ attitude. Trade your place at the desk for a place at The Daytrader Tiki bar to sip on eclectic cocktails made with fresh-pressed juice and sugarcane that’s macerated in-house, all while surrounded by eccentric hand-picked vintage decor and authentic tiki vibes. The coast of Asia meets the Gulf of Mexico on this Polynesian-inspired menu with small plates like Ahi Crispy Rice and Maui Fries, a Hawaiian-style twist on the Sloppy Joe sandwich, and dishes like Kalbi Short Ribs and Macadamia Nut Crusted Cobia for mains. The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant is located at 2236 E. County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 and is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more information, please visit www.daytradertiki.com and follow along on Instagram.

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The parishioners of Saints Markella and Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church are preparing to welcome visitors from far and wide to the annual Greek Festival, from October 18 -20. Once again, the event will be held on the beautiful grounds of the Church at 104 Bryn Mawr Boulevard, from 4 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 18, and from 11a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, and 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 20.

Though the Church is the home to parishioners of many different ethnic backgrounds,  this remains a marvelous opportunity for the community of the Panhandle to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of Greece. There will be music, Greek dancing, vendors’ booths, and – of course – some of the most delicious Greek food (prepared by loving hands) for your enjoyment. Not to be missed are the scrumptious desserts, best enjoyed with a Greek coffee. There will also be activities for children. All are welcome to attend. The Church tours this year will also give you an opportunity to view the newly completed interior dome icons.

Please come and bring your friends to the Church grounds. The setting will allow you to think for a while that you have been transported to Greece, sitting under a canopy,  enjoying delicious food with family and friends, while music and dancers provide you with enchanting entertainment. It is an event not to be missed.

For more information, please contact, please check our website: website – https://www.greekfestfwb.com/ or contact the Church Office at (850) 244-0822.

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By Will Estell

From humble beginnings dating back to 1984, AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar in Destin continues to operate with the philosophy that great seafood, raw oysters, coastal libations and live music are the keys to creating happy patrons who keep coming back year-after-year.

Now celebrating its 40th year in business, AJ’s serves Northwest Florida’s locals, and millions of annual tourists alike, from four locations along the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast: AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar on Destin Harbor (original location), AJ’s Oyster Shanty on Okaloosa Island, AJ’s On the Bayou at the foot of the Cinco Bayou Bridge in Fort Walton Beach and AJ’s Grayton Beach, smack dab in the middle of 30A.

Some locals might remember the now World-Famous AJ’s Destin from way back in the day when they shucked oysters off the deck behind a small trailer right on Destin Harbor. That’s where the magic all began and has continued to flourish over the years. AJ’s commitment to consistently good food, attentive and friendly service, the best in live entertainment daily, and that unique atmosphere and vibe that is synonymous with the AJ’s brand, have brought a longevity that few restaurants have experienced across our coastal paradise—and a popularity that shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.

During a recent conversation, I asked AJ’s founder, Alan Laird, how he and his team have managed to maintain the modern coastal vibe, attention to great live music and consistency to great food over all these years. Laird simply answered, “My philosophy has always been, you’ve got to have enough to make people want to go there, to eat there, to stay there, to come back there and to tell their friends to go there.” I, for one, think he’s certainly figured out that magical formula, and it shows with each visit to any of his four AJ’s locations.

AJ’S Supports Destin’s Unique History

No matter how much our area changes, the true culture of Destin can still be found in its fishing community and the businesses that support that history. A longstanding staple of “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” AJ’s has gone to painstaking efforts to preserve Destin’s culture and what it stands for. AJ’s Destin is covered with buoys, antique outboards, nets, floats, paddles and hundreds of other pieces of local fishing memorabilia. AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar is also the headquarters, and forever home, of the famous weigh-ins for The Destin Fishing Rodeo each October. For an entire month, seven days a week, boats full of anglers from around the world pull up behind AJ’s, for a chance to have their catch make it onto the leaderboard, grab a photo with Miss Destin, and relish in the culture that make AJ’s and Destin icons of sportfishing. You can’t love fishing in Destin and not love AJ’s!

AJ’s Brings Live Music All Year ‘Round

I’ve been to my fair share of great restaurants and beach bars over my two plus decades writing about coastal tourism. I’ve seen everything from one-man acoustic shows to duos to full out touring bands and national cover acts taking local stages in the Destin, Fort Walton Beach, PCB and 30A area, but I can’t think of another place, anywhere in any state, where I’ve watched live entertainment of such unique variety and talent that it’s kept me going back for 25 years. Somehow AJ’s has managed to keep its finger on that often hard-to-define pulse of knowing what people want to see, hear and feel for longer than any single establishment I’ve personally visited.

National AJ’s Day- September 27th

Friday, September 27, is “National AJ’s Day” as part of AJ’s BIG 40th anniversary month! Festivities include live music throughout the day, featuring a fantastic lineup of artists and bands, both upstairs and downstairs of AJ’s Destin location, including live acts on the outdoor Tiki Village, as well as AJ’s large outdoor Jumbotron Stage.

Headlining the party will be multi-Grammy nominee, Fastball, who captured the spotlight with their platinum album, All the Pain Money Can Buy, dominating Billboard’s charts for an entire year back in the nostalgic 90’s. You likely remember their well-known hits “The Way” and “Out of My Head” and now you can party with them firsthand this September.

AJ’s will also be offering hourly, 40-cent specials, enabling you to indulge in delectable offerings showcasing AJ’s menu, while allowing you to savor the flavors that keep locals and vacationers alike coming back for decades. This is the perfect opportunity to party where the locals know and go, and celebrate four decades of music, fun, community and incredible coastal cuisine.

Do yourself a favor and get by AJ’s Seafood & Oyster House in Destin, or any of the other three locations. You’ll quickly understand why AJ’s continues to be the place to be on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast.

Check out AJ’s online calendar of events at ajsdestin.com. Follow on Facebook to keep up with the live music and fun at all four locations.

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