Looking for the top must-try restaurants on 30A?
Florida’s 30A is a vacationer’s paradise! Aside from the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, what makes 30A stand out is its local mouth-watering cuisine.
Fast-food and chain restaurants are a rarity here. Well, except for the occasional Starbucks, but we’ll give them a pass. Instead, you can enjoy fresh seafood caught straight from the Gulf of Mexico, farm-to-table cuisine, and desserts made from scratch.
My family and I visit 30A year after year (we can’t get enough) and love trying the local fare while we are here. I have eaten at every restaurant on this list and can confidently say these restaurants are worth a visit. So join me as I highlight the best restaurants and my favorite dishes that make 30A a food lover’s haven.
Planning a trip to 30A? Check out my in-depth vacation guide on where to stay, eat, and play for an unforgettable getaway.
Editor’s Pick: Best Restaurants on 30A
- Best Fine Dining Restaurant: Cafe Tango
- Best Restaurant with an Ocean View: Pescado
- Best Family-Friendly Restaurant: Big Chill
- Best Healthy Restaurant: Raw & Juicy
- Best Restaurant for a Bachelorette Party: Old Florida Fish House
Best Restaurants on 30A for Dinner
1. Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar
74 Town Hall Rd #4b, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
How it took me four times visiting 30A to finally visit Pescado, I will never know! The restaurant includes indoor and outdoor dining for guests 18 and older. Psst: If you want to bring the entire family, all ages are welcome for brunch Wednesday—Sunday until 1:30 pm.
The outdoor terrace offers some of the best views of any restaurant on 30A hands down! You can enjoy a clear view of the ocean and admire the cobblestone streets of Rosemary Beach below. It’s such a special place!
Recommended dishes: We tried the Lobster Pappardelle (my favorite), Fish Feature, Crab Cake, and Red Wine Braised Angus Prime Short Rib and would highly recommend any one of these.
Do you need a reservation? Yes, Pescado opens up reservations 60 days in advance of dining and books up quickly. In peak season, I typically make reservations a few weeks in advance. Even then, I often find limited availability, with early slots (4:30 pm) or later ones at 8:00 pm and beyond.
TIP: All reservations are for the indoor dining space. If you want a table on the outdoor terrace (first come first served), then I would suggest coming early (you should still book an online reservation, and then the host will ask if you want to sit outside — if there are seats available), or you can get added to the waitlist at the Host Stand.
Open Monday — Thursday 4 pm-11 pm and Wednesday — Sunday 9:45 am-11 pm; co*cktails Only – 1:30 pm-4 pm.
2. Restaurant Paradis
82 South Barrett Square Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
Restaurant Paradis continues to be one of my favorite restaurants on 30A! This fine-dining restaurant is a perfect spot to have a memorable date night or celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or bachelorette party.
The food, service, and ambiance are all exceptional. The restaurant is situated on the corner of Rosemary Beach’s downtown area, but still somehow manages to provide you with a quiet and cozy atmosphere (especially on the outdoor patio).
Recommended dishes: Gulf Coast Snapper, Pecan & Lobster Encrusted Grouper, and the fried crab appetizer, nicknamed “funnel cake of the sea” (if available).
Do you need a reservation? YES! Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for holidays and the summer months. They are currently taking reservations only by calling 850-534-0400.
Open Monday — Saturday 5 pm-9:30 pm and Sunday 5 pm-9 pm.
3. Cafe Tango
My family and I have been vacationing on 30A for over 4 years, and we’ve driven past Cafe Tango many times — but had never eaten here until our recent trip, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait!
Located in one of the area’s oldest cottages on 30A in Blue Mountain Beach, Cafe Tango offers an intimate setting with just 9 tables inside, complete with white tablecloths.
The menu features European-inspired dishes with complex Spanish and Mediterranean flavors. For the main course, you essentially have two options — choose between grouper or steak, each prepared in four different ways. The Dancing Fish and The Basque Fish are two popular choices!
Do you need a reservation? Reservations are highly encouraged and with only one chef operating at a time, you’ll need to reserve a specific “seating.” For dinner reservations, please call 850.267.0054. Seatings:6:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm, 8:00 pm, and 8:30 pm.
Open Tuesdays through Sundays during the seating times listed above.
4. Borago Restaurant
80 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Borago is a favorite spot among locals and for good reason. This chef-owned and operated Italian delight is tucked away from the more crowded areas on 30A and provides you with the perfect homey atmosphere.
We like to sit outside on their screened-in patio (my recommendation — as it can be a bit loud in the main dining area) and enjoy the ocean-fresh summer breeze over the delicious complimentary house-made focaccia bread to start.
Recommended dishes: Creamy Seafood Fricassee, Three Meat Bolognese, or Chicken Linguine. If you have room for dessert, end your meal with their seasonal crisp dessert with vanilla bean gelato on top (SO GOOD)!
Do you need a reservation? Yes, Borago is primarily reservation-based and by phone only at (850) 213-4156.
Open 6 Days a Week at 5 pm-9 pm (Closed Monday).
5. Café Thirty-A
3899 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Café Thirty-Ais a casual fine-dining restaurantthat features a contemporary, eclectic menu with excellent service. The restaurant has won a variety of awards for “best restaurant in 30A” (30A Hot Spot Award Winner, Best of the Emerald Coast, Perfect in Walton County Award, and others) and you will quickly see why.
As an added bonus, Café Thirty-A offers a “Daily BOHO” from 4:30-5:00 pm: Buy any entrée at the regular price and get a second of equal or lesser value HALF OFF. Orders must be in the kitchen by 5:15 p.m. Dine-in only.
Recommended dishes: The menu changes daily according to the availability of ingredients, but if you happen to be there when they offer the She Crab Soup (so creamy) and Chili Dusted Salmon (just the right amount of spice), you are in for a treat.
Do you need a reservation? Yes, reservations are required and expect to valet park. Reserve a table here or by calling 850.231.2166.
Open daily from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
6. Renaissance French Restaurant
118 Spires Ln unit 2A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Renaissance French Restaurant is an adorable quaint French bistro that opened in April 2024. As soon as you step through the door, French music fills the air, and a waitress (born in France) greets you with “Bonjour!”. There’s nothing quite like it anywhere else on 30A!
The menu is limited to just five entree options, but I always like to say that the chef can concentrate on perfecting their dishes with a smaller menu — and that he does! We tried the Confit de Canard (duck confit), Saumon Façon Triogros, and Filet Steak Frites and each one was absolutely amazing!
The restaurant also offers a great wine selection (with just as many pages dedicated to wine as there are to food), and at an affordable price too! We enjoyed a nice bottle of a 2018 Bordeaux for $48.
Do you need a reservation? Yes, since the restaurant has only 10 tables, it’s best to make a reservation to guarantee seating.
Open Tuesday to Saturday 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.
7. Grayton Seafood Co.
50 Uptown Grayton Circle # 1, Grayton Beach, FL 32459
Grayton Seafood Co. is a neighborhood seafood spot in Uptown Grayton with tons of rustic charm. The restaurant wins the award for “excellent service” on 30A — the staff makes you feel so welcome and is incredibly friendly. I don’t think our waiter stopped smiling the whole time we were there (in a non-creepy way hah!).
Recommended dishes: Blue Crab Claws (you can get them fried or sautéed) for an appetizer, Fish of the Day, and Shrimp & Grits. But you truly can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Do you need a reservation? Reservations are highly recommended during spring break and summer months, but not required. You can make a reservation by texting 850-714-2155 (skip calling; they don’t check voicemails) and include your first name, preferred date & time, and total number of people in your party.
Open Tuesday to Saturday 4:45 pm to 9:00 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.
8. George’s At Alys Beach
30 N Castle Harbour Dr., Alys Beach, FL 32461
Are you looking for a casual, yet upscale restaurant where you can bring the whole family? George’s is the place! The restaurant offers a small airy dining room or a breezy porch for seating options (I’ve tried both and prefer the outdoor space, but each spot is lovely) in the quaint coastal town, of Alys Beach.
George’s is a spot we frequently visit and continues to be one of the best restaurants 30A has to offer.
The menu offers both “behave” and “misbehave” sections to choose from, representing healthier and…less healthy options. I typically choose items from the “misbehave” section because, hey, it’s vacation! My favorites: Jumbo Lump Crab Cake (for dinner) and their Famous Market Fish Sandwich (for lunch).
Do you need a reservation? George’s does not accept reservations except for Valentine’s Day & New Year’s Eve. Tables are seated on a first-come, first-served basis. The restaurant opens for dinner starting at 5:00 p.m. and guests start lining up around 4:30 p.m.
Note: During my recent visit in mid-May, we arrived around 5:30 p.m. on a weeknight and had to wait approximately 45 minutes for a table.
Open daily from 11 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm.
9. La Crema Tapas & Chocolate
38 Main St, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
La Crema is a cozy cafe known for its Spanish tapas and chocolate confections (fondue? Yes, please!) The restaurant is located on scenic Main Street in Rosemary Beach and is the perfect spot to relax and create memories with family and friends.
Recommended dishes: Seafood Paella, Lobster Mac, and Enfuego Chicken; and don’t forget to save room for dessert — the Chocolate Fondue (apples, bananas, strawberries, pound cake & marshmallows dipped in milk or dark chocolate) and/or the gooey chocolate chip Classic Cookies (with a milk shooter) are to die for!
Do you need a reservation? La Crema does not accept reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. During the dinner rush, you will likely have to wait a bit to be seated (we waited about 30 minutes during a weeknight), but you can always come for lunch if you want to avoid the crowds and still get to order off the same menu.
Open daily from 11 am to 9 pm.
10. Surfing Deer
2743 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Surfing Deer is a beachside restaurant that offers a sophisticated and modern dining experience. The restaurant’s menu features innovative dishes that blend Southern and Mediterranean cuisine, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
There’s also a cute story about where its name, “Surfing Deer” originated – ask your waiter/waitress about the pet deer named Bambi.
Recommended dishes: Seared Sea Scallops, Thai Skillet Salmon, Pimento Cheese Hush Puppies (spicy), and Iron Skillet Jalapeño Cornbread.
Do you need a reservation? Yes! Surfing Deer is another hotspot in 30A that books up quickly. Reserve a table here.
Open Monday — Saturday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm; Closed Sundays.
11. The Citizen
20 Mark Twain Lane, Alys Beach, FL 32461
One of the newer spots in 30A, The Citizen is a seaside tavern inspired by coastal cuisine around the world. The restaurant gets a 10 out of 10 for ambiance which makes up for the food that slightly misses the mark (in my opinion). Drinks are fabulous though (order the “Smoked Cabernet” — it’s a 30A favorite)!
Recommended dishes: their menu is seasonal, but be on the lookout for the Charred Avocado Salad, Whipped Feta appetizer, as well as the Charred Grilled Oysters.
Do you need a reservation? The Citizen accepts a limited number of reservations for lunch and brunch viaResy and parties of 8 or larger for dinner. If you would like to make a dinner reservation, please call the restaurant at850-909-0702. Otherwise, I would suggest getting there early around 5:00 p.m. to snag a table.
Open for LUNCH Wed-Fri 11 am-2:00 pm; BRUNCH Sat-Sun 10:30 am-2 pm; OYSTER HAPPY HOUR Tues-Sun 2 pm-5 pm; DINNER Mon-Sun 5 pm-10 pm.
12. Old Florida Fish House
33 Heron’s Watch Way, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Old Florida Fish House is all about the atmosphere. The restaurant is nestled on Eastern Lake so you get a dinner with a view surrounded by twinkle lights, live music and entertainment, an ice-cream stand, and an outdoor lawn area inclusive of cornhole, ping pong, and a dedicated play area for kids.
The only downfall is the service — the restaurant is always busy and you can feel a bit rushed to finish your meal.
My advice: order your appetizers first, otherwise they will arrive at the same time as your entrees. All in all, you are paying for the location and sunset views — though Old Florida Fish House still provides one of the most beautiful settings in 30A.
Do you need a reservation? Yes, I would highly recommend making reservations. The best way to make reservations isonline. Note: Self-parking is available first come-first served on the lot or next door at their sister company, Coastside, (if spaces are available). Expect to use the [complementary] valet parking.
Open daily for Lunch 11:00 am – 3:30 pm and Dinner 4:30 pm – 10:00 pm.
13. The Great Southern Cafe
83 Central Square, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
The Great Southern Cafe, located in the heart of Seaside, is a mix of southern cooking and international cuisines all while using local produce and fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a casual establishment and a great place to bring your family.
All seating is located on their outdoor patio and, from personal experience, is a great people-watching spot.
The must-try menu item here is the Grits À Ya Ya – blackened shrimp with gouda cheese grits — it’s a winner!
Do you need a reservation? The Great Southern Cafe does not take reservations. I would recommend getting there early to reduce your wait time. Otherwise, you are looking at a 30-minute to an hour wait during prime dinner time.
Open daily for Breakfast from 8 am-10 am and Lunch & Dinner from 11 am-9:30 pm.
Best Restaurants on 30A for Lunch
14. Chanticleer Eatery
55 Clayton Ln, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Want something off the “beaten path”? Chanticleer Eatery is a hidden gem and local’s secret located in Grayton Beach that serves made-from-scratch sandwiches at lunchtime (try the Reuben!), juicy burgers, the best prime-grade steaks, and of course fresh cookies (which, you guessed it, are made from scratch). You can really taste the love and thought that goes into preparing/making the food here.
I highly recommend you grab a seat on the patio and add this to your list of “best restaurants on 30A” to try. Flip-flops and beach attire are completely acceptable.
Do you need a reservation? Chanticleer does not accept reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Note: I have eaten here several times for both lunch and dinner and never had to wait for a table.
Open daily for Lunch 11 am-3 pm; Happy Hour3 pm-6 pm; Dinner 3:30 pm-9 pm.
15. Airstream Row
2235 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Eating on Airstream Row in Seaside is a must during your visit! Airstream Rowis a line of food trucks operating out of vintage airstreams. You can choose between trailers that offer grass-fed beef hot dogs, grilled cheese, BBQ, gyros, crêpes, shaved ice, and more.
It offers a fun atmosphere that’s perfect for both kids and adults! While I consider Seaside the “touristy area” on 30A, this place is an exception. It has “good vibes,” as they say.
Do you need a reservation? No, feel free to drop by anytime. There might be a short wait depending on the time of your visit, but nothing too crazy.
Open daily from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
16. Shunk Gulley
1875 S County Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Shunk Gulley is located on the far west side of 30A and offers panoramic views of the Gulf with a laid-back ambiance. You have the option to dine on the open-air rooftop (my personal favorite), downstairs on the outdoor patio, or indoors too.
The menu items are directly sourced from local fisheries and farms. If you’re like me and want to try “something local” while visiting 30A, then this is the perfect spot for you!
Shunk Gulley is known for having some of the best oysters on 30A! You can choose between “naked” (raw) and grilled oysters like cheddar jalapeño. Even my husband approved and he’s a bit of an oyster snob.
We also tried the fish tacos (available on Taco Tuesday), gulf shrimp, and tuna poke, and enjoyed them all. Oh, and I also recommend upgrading your side item to the duck-fat gulley fries (SO DELICIOUS!).
Do you need a reservation? Shuck Gulley does not take reservations or call ahead for seating. For lunch, you should have no issues finding a table. If you come for dinner, I recommend arriving early and enjoying the outdoor lounge if there’s a wait.
Open daily from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
17. Raw & Juicy
147 West La Garza Lane, Alys Beach, FL 32461
Raw & Juicy is my go-to place when I want something a little healthier to eat. The menu includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options such as soups, salads, sandwiches like a walnut lentil beet burger, and savory bowls (i.e., buddha bowls, etc.). They also have delicious smoothies – try the Green King!
The outdoor courtyard offers a serene outdoor oasis that makes me feel like I’m in a different country. Psst: there’s also a small slide in the back that children can enjoy.
Do you need a reservation? No, Raw & Juicy does not take reservations. You may have to wait in line, but it usually moves pretty quickly.
Open daily from 8 am-5 pm and 5:30 pm-9 pm Wednesday to Saturday.
18. The Big Chill
The Big Chill is a great place to “chill” for lack of a better word. The space includes several food stands offering tacos, burgers, seafood & BBQ so it’s a great option to satisfy everyone in your group.
The venue features an open-air lawn and patio area, a fireplace, an event stage, and a 25-foot Jumbotron for movies and sports. You’ll also find local shops where you can pick up a souvenir, shop for the perfect vacation outfit, and even visit the Build-A-Bear Workshop for the kids. With so much to do, you could easily spend the entire afternoon here!
Do you need a reservation? No, reservations are not necessary or even offered for that matter. Come whenever. It’s super casual.
Nectar Coffee & Mr. Freeze Ice Cream is open 7 am-10 pm. Duos, Local Smoke, Mile Marker 15 & Tackle Box are open 11 am-10 pm.
19. The Perfect Pig
4281 E County Hwy 30-A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
The Perfect Pig is popular with both locals and visitors. This quaint neighborhood spot offers delicious comfort food with a twist and is another great place to bring the entire family. The Perfect Pig has three different locations along 30A including one in Gulf Place, Seagrove Beach, and Watercolor.
I would recommend coming here for breakfast or lunch rather than dinner, as I think you will be more pleased with some of the other options listed above. Nevertheless, The Perfect Pig will satisfy the meat lovers in your group — try their award-winning pulled pork sandwich.
Do you need a reservation? It’s not necessary to make a reservation (wait times are typically low), but if you would like to, reservations are made by phone only: Gulf Place – (850) 660-1591 // Seagrove – (850) 213-0701 // Watercolor – (850) 533-1522.
Open daily from 8:00 am-9:00 pm.
Map of the Best Restaurants on 30A
A map pinpointing the locations of the top restaurants in the area is provided below.
Final thoughts on dining on 30A
30A is a foodie paradise, with a wide range of restaurants that offer delicious and innovative dishes. Whether you’re craving seafood, Italian cuisine, or Southern comfort food, 30A has you covered.
From casual beachside eateries to fine dining restaurants, the area offers a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to all budgets and tastes. So, the next time you’re in 30A, be sure to check out these must-try restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience.
Related:
30A Florida Vacation Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Play for an Unforgettable Getaway
Best Pickleball Courts Near 30A: Which Spots Are Free vs. Charge a Fee
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