SANDESTIN DINING GUIDE

SANDESTIN D I N I N G

G U I D E

Welcome to the Emerald Coast, where the vibrant flavors of coastal cuisine meet the serene shores of Sandestin. As Cajun natives, food isn't just sustenance for us; it’s a cherished part of our heritage and upbringing. While we wouldn't label ourselves as foodies per se, there's no denying our passion for discovering local hidden gems. In this dining guide, we invite you to join us on a delicious journey through our favorite spots in Sandestin, ranging from cozy diners to elegant fine dining establishments. So, grab a seat at the table, and let's indulge in the flavors that make this coastal paradise truly unforgettable.

Candi & Andre

COFFEE & DONUTS BECAUSE ADULTING IS HARD AND DONUTS ARE DELICIOUS

Charlie’s Cafe at Baytowne Wharf: $ https://www.facebook.com/CharliesCafeBay towne/ A convenient alternative to “the big brand” with lots of options.

Starbucks: $ The nearest one is in Grand Parkway. I think you know what to expect.

Parlor Doughnuts $ https://www.parlordoughnuts.com/miramarb each-fl Not your typical “doughnut”! These “layered” doughnuts are heartier than their normal donut counterparts and have more of a pastry texture - and no hole! I was suspicious about a holeless doughnut but was hooked after my first one.

BREAKFAST THE MOST IMPORTANT MEAL OF THE DAY... UNLESS IT'S BRUNCH Sunset Bay Cafe: $$-$$$ https://sunsetbaycafesandestin.com/ Reservations: first come first served.

Ovide: American $$$$ https://www.hoteleffie.com/dining/ovide Reservations: Online Candi says: Best avocado toast alive. Candi hates everything yet loves this toast, which speaks volumes!

Ruby Slipper: $$-$$$ https://www.rubybrunch.com/location/miramar-beach-flbaytowne-opening-2023/ Reservations: None accepted but you can join the waitlist online Dine inside or out! This restaurant, nestled within Baytowne Wharf, is a fabulous choice when you’re in need of a good fried green tomato or an egg “bennie”. Fun fact: they have a menu named “Ruby’s Doggone Good Menu”, so your pets can enjoy a great meal beside you!

FINE DINING BECAUSE SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED A FORK WITH MORE ATTITUDE Seagars: American Steakhouse, Seafood $$$$ https://www.seagars.com/ Reservations: Recommended - Online Between their grandiose seafood tower, tasty creamed corn, and fine cuts of meat, what more could one ask for? We have yet to find a place that rivals Segars, with this fine dining establishment serving as the best steakhouse for any special occasion! Men, be sure to wear your long pants (jeans are OK) and a collared shirt.

Bijoux: American, Seafood $$$$ https://www.bijouxdestin.com/ Reservations: Online Their menu is limited for a reason: they only serve what we consider to be fantastic dishes.

Their highly quality array seafood is what makes them notable, with André’s favorite dish being their shrimp and grits.

Ovide: American $$$$ https://www.hoteleffie.com/dining/ovide Reservations: Online Craving a taste of coastal sophistication without the fuss? Ovide is your spot. Tucked away in the heart of the beach scene, Ovide serves up some seriously tasty French-inspired dishes.

From fresh seafood to mouthwatering desserts, it's one of our favorite places to go.

Tuscany Italian Bistro: Italian $$ https://tuscanybistrodestin.com/ Reservations: Text 850-377-3192 Now this... this is great Italian food. Whether you’re a lover of meat, seafood, or home-grown vegetables, Tuscany brings several options to the table for every tastebud. We are confident that this place can feed even the pickiest of eaters - keep Tuscany on your radar!

CASUAL DINING WHERE FORMAL ATTIRE IS OPTIONAL, BUT FLAVOR IS MANDATORY.

Tommy Bahamas: American, Caribbean $$-$$$ https://www.tommybahama.com/restau rants-and-marlinbars/locations/sandestin Reservations: Online Gotta love the Tommy! Not only can you grab some quality panel backs before your meal, but you can also eat the best coconut shrimp (according to André).

While he scarfs those down, Candi has sworn by their steak salad for over a decade. It’s worth a try.

Vin’tij: American, Wine Bar $$-$$$ https://vintij.com/ Reservations: Online Talk about the best place to grab a snack and a glass of wine! Their “Wine Down” menu is an extensive list of all your favorites, with their dinner menu offering various styles of cheese and bread to pair nicely with your beverage.

Cantina Loredo: Mexican $$-$$$ https://www.cantinalaredo.com/location/sand estin-florida/ Reservations: Limited After spending 20 years in Houston, we learned a thing or two about good Mexican. Enjoy sizzling fajitas and their signature Top Shelf Guacamole, which is sure to satisfy. For the Tequila lover, Cantina Loredo offers over 30 different flavors.

Emeril’s Coastal: Seafood $$$ https://emerilsrestaurants.com/emerilscoastal/ Reservations: Online Pssst. Don’t tell anyone, but Emeril himself is our local celebrity. As Louisiana natives, we get to enjoy a little touch of home every time we dine here. The New Orleans BBQ shrimp is a musthave for every meal!

BURGERS & PIZZA THE ONLY ACCEPTABLE REASON TO EAT THINGS BIGGER THAN YOUR FACE Hunter’s Chicken and Burgers: $ https://www.facebook.com/HuntersDiner/ Reservations: first come first served Name says it all. I say with confidence that the burgers here beat Whataburger. Our family has been making trips to this restaurant for years now, with the Big Juanita being Candi’s favorite guilty pleasure. Make sure you get the fries as well; nothing beats a thin, crispy fry!

Lost Pizza Co.: $$ (delivery) https://lostpizza.com/locations/miramar-beach-fl/ Reservations: first come first served Located right down the road, Lost Pizza offers every dreamy combination one could want pizza-wise. Not only does this place make your mouth water, but they deliver too!

Grimaldis: $$$ https://www.grimaldispizzeria.com/location/grandboulevard/ Reservations: first come first served This pizza joint never fails, but wow are they busy! Their coal-fired brick ovens give customers a unique and authentic taste, making this place truly special. Beware though, this place fills up fast during the summer time so place orders early and arrive ahead of time if you’re trying to score a table.

DESSERT WHERE EVERY SPOONFUL IS A STEP CLOSER TO ENLIGHTENMENT Killwins: Ice cream and chocolate shop $ kilwins.com

Moo La La: $ https://www.moolalaicecream.com/

Our favorite ice cream and we mean it! There is a reason there is a line wrapping the store, but it moves pretty fast and once that ice cream hits your tastebuds, you won’t even remember the wait. They serve a variety of ice cream, all the while carrying fudge, chocolates, and treats made in-house.

If you have a family, especially little ones, this is a great spot to grab ice cream while visiting Baytowne Wharf! It is nestled between the arcade and the playground, near the ropes course and outdoor carnival games, making it the perfect stop if you have your “littles” with you.

COCKTAILS BECAUSE “MIXOLOGIST” SOUNDS WAY COOLER THAN BARTENDER Ara Rooftop Lounge $$ https://hoteleffie.com/dining/ara Drinks with the best views of Sandestin.

Located on the rooftop of the Hotel Effie, there isn’t a better spot to sit back and relax. If you are lucky, you might even catch one of Sandesdin’s fireworks nights.

The Craft Bar: American $$ https://www.thecraftbarfl.com/ With an extensive tap list and amazing happy hour specials, The Craft Bar is a great choice when you want to grab a drink and feel at home.

EATS WITH A VIEW SOMETIMES THE BEST SIDE DISH IS THE SUNSET The Beach House: American, Seafood $$-$$$ https://thebeachhousesd.com/ Reservations: first come first served With live music frequenting the deck, this pet friendly venue is THE top spot for enjoying the sunset.

Marina Bar & Grill: American $$-$$$ https://www.sandestin.com/dine/marina -bar-grill Enjoy the marina with outdoor seating while you sit back and watch marina life go by. Don’t forget to tell Maryanne the macaw hello before you leave!

CANDACE “CANDI” GUILBEAU

ERIC “ANDRE” GUILBEAU

REALTOR | SANDESTIN RESIDENT & CLUB MEMBER

REALTOR | SANDESTIN RESIDENT & CLUB MEMBER

281.731.1294 Candi@AbodeFL.com

713.203.1378 Andre@AbodeFL.com

abodeFL.com

@theguilbeaugroup