Emerald Coast Magazine December 2025

EMERALD COAST

CHEERS

PENSACOLA

BOROUGHS

HUM A STEADY

RHYTHM STORY-PAIRING SERIES BECOMES

FOODIE SENSATION

LOCAL FAMILY CELEBRATES WITH STYLE AND TRADITION

RECIPES FOR YOUR HOMEMADE HOLIDAY

→ A Story-Pairing Dinner was hosted at M&P by Farrington Foods in September.

A series from Emerald Coast Storytellers, the event marries fine dining with spoken word.

FEATURES

POCKET NEIGHBORHOODS

Removed from the hustle and bustle of the beach, Pensacola proper offers layers of culture to be discovered throughout the corners of the city. Along 12th Avenue, a series of hip small businesses keep the East Hill neighborhood lively. Where Belmont and Devilliers streets meet, a soulful slice of history hums a steady rhythm. Over in East Pensacola Heights, a walkable community with plenty of parks offers comfort and scenic views. And in the West Garden District, vintage charm and modern grit live in harmony.

by CARRIE HONAKER

STORY-PAIRING DINNER SERIES

Founders of Emerald Coast Storytellers, Kristy Holditch and Ali Diamond have been hosting monthly open mic nights and writing workshops for more than three years. The novel duo has created a community hub for Emerald Coast writers. But Holditch and Diamond hoped to attract a new audience with their Story-Pairing Dinner series. The annual event offers a refreshing and immersive fine dining element to the story-sharing experience and breathes new life into the tradition of wine and course pairings.

by PAIGE AIGRET

THE WAVE

Age-old traditions come alive with custom woodwork and blacksmith restorations at a trade shop in Fort Walton Beach.

20 CHARITY

Celebrate the holiday season by giving back to the community through donations and volunteering.

25 FASHION

Winter balls and Christmas cocktail parties call for elevated looks that dazzle with pizzazz.

28 WHAT’S IN STORE

Don Alans in Pensacola has menswear styles suited for every occasion.

DESTINATIONS

new Gulf Coast cruise takes passengers from historic Pensacola to the lively streets of New Orleans.

New direct flights from the Fort Walton Beach-Destin Airport to Miami are now available via American Airlines.

Sarah White welcomes readers into her home with a detailed look at her Christmas style and traditions.

Celebrate the holidays with impressive yet simple from-scratch recipes that are sure to wow your guests.

Savor and sample authentic French patisserie at Bon Appetit in Fort Walton Beach.

LIVING Kitchen tech rewrites culinary routines with detail, convenience, and design.

Themed sculpture comes to life in colorful designs as part of city- and county-led art in public spaces projects.

90 BOOKS The Book Rack owner Melli Pappas keeps literary interest alive with popular events and regular engagement.

mom and

owner Sarah White welcomed Emerald Coast Magazine into her home to talk all things Christmas—from family and traditions to recipes and decor. White’s Destin home on Choctawhatchee Bayou is the annual host home for her extended family’s celebrations. One of many Christmas Day traditions, White shakes up her signature Winter White Cosmos for sunset cocktails on the

before dinner.

↑ SMALL STAGES INSPIRE BIG DREAMS

Emerald Coast Theatre Company provides a platform for youth and professionals in the theater community, where each show inspires future success on the stage and beyond.

22 GENERATIONAL WEALTH

The expert team at Esteem Wealth Partners helps families implement strategies to secure future financial success and foster responsible stewardship for generations to come.

30 → DAZZLING BEAUTY

McCaskill & Company is the Emerald Coast’s premier fine jeweler offering sophisticated selections of diamond engagement rings, designer fashion jewelry, and luxury watches.

40 UNSPOILED BEAUTY

The Forgotten Coast offers a season to remember as cooler days welcome visitors to the beauty of nature at state parks, a wildlife refuge, hiking trails, and more.

42

↑ SIPS AND SIGHTS

The Tipsy Mule mobile bar and international culinary tours offer libation creations and decadent meals on wheels to the Emerald Coast community and beyond.

43 TASTE OF THE COAST

A new menu at Fish Out of Water Restaurant highlights the region’s best catches and flavors with chef Louis Martorano at the helm of the kitchen.

32 LONG-LASTING RESULTS

Noninvasive CoolSculpting services at Dermatology Specialists of Florida & Aqua Medical Spa offer the finishing touch you’ve been looking for to reach your final goals.

63 TOP DOCTORS A highlight of health care’s best professionals throughout Northwest Florida.

31 → GIFT GUIDE Finish out your holiday shopping list with some unique finds and premier products from local Emerald Coast businesses.

NEXT ISSUE

In our Women’s Profiles, we meet the leading females making waves at the local level and beyond, and our Health & Wellness sections guide us to becoming our best selves.

71 MEDICAL

PROFILES

Take an insider’s look at the wellness facilities and services that keep the Emerald Coast community happy and healthy.

93 A GLAMOROUS DEBUT

A boutique brand with a global reach, The Agency Northwest Florida Beaches becomes Sandestin Investment’s latest venture in real estate.

95

COASTAL HAPPENINGS

Stay merry and bright with a variety of cheerful occasions throughout the Emerald Coast.

EMERALD COAST MAGAZINE

EDITOR

CUSTOM CONTENT EDITOR Zandra Wolfgram

STAFF EDITOR Olivia Sokolowski

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kari Barlow, Rebecca Padgett Frett, Carrie Honaker, Laurie Einstein Koszuta, Liesel Schmidt, Liza Grant Smith

CREATIVE

DESIGN DIRECTOR Jennifer Ekrut

CONTRIBUTING ART DIRECTOR Diana Ramírez

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Catherine Abner, David Bailey, Augusto Cayson Barreto, Boo Media, Dave Barfield, Matt Christopher / MaxImpact Photography, Jenn Deeb, Andrew Eccles, Jack Gardner, James Stefiuk, Eric P. Mull, Sean Murphy, Allie Stephens, Shelly Swanger, Tim Ludvigsen Photography, Collis Thompson / Mellow Media, Stacey Tobik, Emily Veal, Kiara Watson, Max Zech Weaver, Leah White, Nathan Zucker

SALES, MARKETING, AND EVENTS

SALES MANAGER Lori Magee Yeaton

DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, EASTERN DIVISION Daniel Parisi

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Julie Dorr

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Darla Harrison, Erica Wilson, Daniel Walker

ACCOUNT MANAGER Renee Johnson

MARKETING ART DIRECTOR Saige Roberts

PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Selene Ceballo

PRODUCTION MANAGER Chris Edmund

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Tyler Sansone

ADVERTISING DESIGN COORDINATOR Michael Kramer

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Courtney Bryant, Ileana Caban

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALISTS Ana Coronel, Avery Morales

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Judy Heflin

LOGISTICS MANAGER Omar Morales

CIRCULATION MANAGER Marjorie Leiva

CIRCULATION ASSISTANTS Cathy Hart, Britney Stinson

CIRCULATION PROMOTIONS MANAGER David Supple

IT MANAGER Omar Greene

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Brian Rowland

GROUP PUBLISHER Terry Duffy

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Todd Schmidt

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Daphne Nikolopoulos

HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO Stefan Wanczyk

PRESIDENT John Balardo

PUBLISHERS

EMERALDCOASTMAGAZINE.COM

2026 30A Songwriters Festival Giveaway

Don’t miss this chance! Enter to win two general admission weekend passes to the 2026 30A Songwriters Festival. Celebrate 17 years of hooks, lines, and singers at this beloved South Walton event happening January 16-19. This unique event is a four-day music extravaganza featuring 175-plus songwriters and musicians performing original songs in various genres ranging from country to Americana and folk as well as blues and soul in over 30 dedicated listening rooms throughout South Walton.

Enter to win today at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/ 30a-songwriters-festival-giveaway-2.

Ultimate Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort Getaway

Enter to win the perfect staycation for two! Whether you are looking for a weekend at the spa, some time to relax and unwind, the perfect anniversary celebration, or you just want to grab some beach time with your someone special, this Ultimate Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort Getaway is the escape you’ve been longing for.

For more information and to enter to win, go to EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/giveaways.

STAY IN TOUCH

NEW TRENDS IN SKIN

Enter the New Year fresh faced with these trending tips from expert staff and specialists at Dermatology Specialists of Florida & Aqua Medical Spa.

Go to EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/sponsored-content/ beauty-links to learn more.

BRIDGEWAY CENTER BREAKS GROUND ON HOUSING PROJECT

Bridgeway Center Inc. (BCI) announced a new housing project that will support low-income individuals at a groundbreaking ceremony held in September. The new Willow Way Village is underway and will be a transformative permanent supportive housing development, marking a major milestone in the region’s efforts to address homelessness and housing stability for residents with disabling conditions.

Read more at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/ bridgewaycenterbreaksgroundonhousingproject.

BEST OF THE EMERALD COAST 2025 RECAP

On October 9, 2025, Emerald Coast Magazine hosted its annual Best of the Emerald Coast event at Grand Boulevard in Miramar beach. Attendance reached record numbers, headliner band Duchess kept the vibes alive with rock hits, and vendors brought new and inventive tastings and experiences to the event.

Check out highlights, photos, and a list of sponsors from this year’s event at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/bestofec.

Do you love the idea of receiving the Emerald Coast Magazine newsletter in your inbox but not sure how to sign up for it? We’ve got you covered right here: EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/connect-with-us.

from the editor

DEAR READER, THANK YOU

Seasons of change are sure to bring good things

Taking in the fall weather the last few months and celebrating the holidays has got me feeling nostalgic for one of the hardest seasons of my life. It was fall 2021 when I first applied for a job at Emerald Coast Magazine.

I was a recent creative writing graduate with little journalism experience under my belt aside from my university’s magazine and some intermittent freelancing gigs in Columbus, Georgia. I had just moved back to the Emerald Coast area after separating from a decade-long marriage.

I was down. But I was hopeful and determined. Approaching my 30s, I knew exactly what I wanted for my future.

I researched every magazine in the area. I reached out only to one—Emerald Coast Magazine. The stories were meaningful and community driven, the content was well-written, and the style was elevated and professional. That was where I wanted to be.

I submitted an application on the company’s careers page just to be met with an automated response that they were currently under a hiring freeze. That didn’t deter me.

I promptly emailed then publisher Brian Rowland who connected me with then executive editor Steve Bornhoft who was kind enough to throw me a few freelance assignments.

Throughout November and December, I wrote what I consider some of my first real pieces as a journalist. I covered Healing Hoof Steps, a local organization that offers equine therapy to youth, military, and others struggling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I wrote an artist profile of fiber artist Nicole Hemmerly whose passion for dogs is as strong as her passion, and talent, for art.

I wrote stories that meant something. I met people in interviews that impacted me.

All this while living in what I thought would be a very difficult holiday season. But I had my family, I had my hometown, I had my writing, and I had Emerald Coast Magazine.

Bornhoft would prove to be more than an editor; he quickly became a mentor, and later, a friend. He would call me with advice, and we would discuss each piece.

By January, Emerald Coast Magazine’s parent company was hiring a production editor for its custom publications, and Bornhoft recommended me for the role.

My hardest season became my most fruitful. I found myself again, and I found my home again, too. I give great credit to Emerald Coast Magazine for that.

Two years later, big changes approached as Bornhoft planned to take a step back from the executive editor role of the three flagship titles he managed. Suddenly, I became a candidate for one of them, the one I had aimed for from the start—Emerald Coast Magazine.

This role has meant so much more than just a job to me.

It was reassurance that I belong as a writer. It was the entryway to an industry I craved to be a part of. It was a welcoming home.

Today, I am writing this last Editor’s Letter to say thank you.

Thank you to my mentor Bornhoft for guiding me. Thank you to my boss Sara Goldfarb for believing in me. Thank you to my friend Sarah Burger for listening to me. Thank you to my publisher McKenzie Burleigh for encouraging me. And thank you to our readers for giving me a platform to share the many things I love so much about this community.

To do what I love, to write about the community I love, has meant so much to me. And I will be forever grateful.

As I step away from this role I’ve loved so dearly, I don’t wish to say farewell.

I’m not going far—I’m home. And I’m not sure I’ll ever quit writing about my home, the Emerald Coast.

So, I’ll say this instead— I’ll see you on the page.

Be well,

PAIGE AIGRET,

EDITOR paigret@emeraldcoastmagazine.com

PHOTO BY SEAN MURPHY

Thanks to Cathy, your secure connection is guaranteed.

Thanks to Cathy, your secure connection is guaranteed. 03789_12.17.24

We continually monitor our digital channels to safeguard your online and mobile banking experience. But your most secure banking experience is face-to-face, where we can better meet your ever-changing needs and serve you exceptionally well. ccbg.com.

We continually monitor our digital channels to safeguard your online and mobile banking experience. But your most secure banking experience is face-to-face, where we can better meet your ever-changing needs and serve you exceptionally well. ccbg.com.

Restoring TRADITION

Local shop specializes in woodworking and blacksmithing in style with the olden days

by LAURIE EINSTEIN KOSZUTA

wave

At Traditions Workshop in Fort Walton Beach, the past and present coexist. Antique tools and old, weathered machinery, some dating back more than a hundred years, sit comfortably alongside power tools of the twenty-first century. But this isn’t a museum—the tools are meant to be used as

reminders that craftsmanship can connect history with contemporary practices.

“All the tools in the shop have a story,” says David Sandlin, a retired Air Force pilot turned master craftsman.

Among the collection in the shop are family heirloom tools like the Swedish hammer passed down from Sandlin’s

grandfather, proof that the tradition is both inherited and shared. After 22 years in the military and more than a decade in software engineering, Sandlin started Traditions in 2014 as a garage hobby.

“It was supposed to be small, but word of mouth turned it into a business.”

After three years working from his home garage, Sandlin was maxed on equipment and project space. He soon moved Traditions over to its permanent location in Fort Walton Beach.

Traditions operates as both a workshop and a classroom, run by Sandlin and his son, Christopher. The business is built around its principle of The Three Rs: restoration, refinishing, and repair. Customers bring in broken, stained, chipped, and scratched heirlooms, such as tables, chairs, and trunks, hoping the Sandlins can breathe new life into them. One customer even brought in a century-old, broken brass baby crib for repair. Sometimes, the repair might mean French polishing a tabletop or sourcing materials to repair the crib or a cherished chair that needs new legs.

The Sandlins aren’t purists for the sake of nostalgia.

↑ Sandlin says the coal forge, pictured above, is where the business of blacksmithing starts. Here, items are formed to be welded and perfected, sometimes becoming a part of larger projects like the viking sea chest (top right). The coal forge reaches a temperature of about 2,400 degrees Fahrenheit.

↙↓ Master craftsman

David Sandlin (left) owns Traditions Workshop in Fort Walton Beach. His son, journeyman blacksmith Christopher Sandlin (right), helps run the shop and chips in with restoration projects, classes, and workshops.

“We’ll use modern tools,” Sandlin says. “The costs would be prohibitive if you did everything with hand saws and planes. We try to keep costs down, but materials for custom jobs can be expensive before we even add in labor. A plumber is $160 an hour, an auto mechanic $125; we’re offering the same kind of skilled service.”

But Traditions is more than a place to drop off a project. It’s also a classroom where students can learn the fundamental folk skills of blacksmithing, leatherwork, woodworking, and stained glass. Beginners start with simple projects that cater to all skill levels. For blacksmithing, it might be learning how to forge steel to make hooks and nails before moving on to knives, spears, or even what Traditions calls an apocalypse tomahawk.

Classes are kept small, usually four to eight students, and often run in five- to seven-hour Saturday sessions. Students hammer, shape, and forge under watchful eyes and leave with something tangible.

Coppersmithing classes are especially popular, where students hammer out bowls or forge copper roses in shades of black, brown, green, blue, and red.

“Right before Valentine’s Day is a great time to learn that one,” Christopher jokes.

Christopher doesn’t hide his passion.

“There is value in teaching skills that resist a throwaway culture,” he says. “I think it is fascinating to discover why things were made the way they were, whether it was due to available materials, costs, or just survival. We honor that by

restoring, recreating, and teaching. Each project that we take on demands problem-solving and rewards persistence.”

Beyond teaching, the Sandlins build and give away a blacksmith’s tool chest every year at events hosted by the Florida Artist Blacksmith Association, stocked with supplies to help beginners get started, value the heritage, and keep the craft alive.

Alumni of Traditions classes can return for reserved shop time for a minimal fee, providing them with tools, vintage and modern, and space they might not have at home.

Both a workshop and a community, Traditions is a place where the past isn’t just remembered, but practiced, hammered, and forged anew. EC

← Traditions owner Sandlin is pictured setting the weld on a ring handle to be installed on a chest (previous page, top right). He multitasks with a long-handle spoon to add flux, which is used to prevent scale. After this process, he will put the ring back in the fire to finish it before dressing up the joint, smoothing it out and shaping it round.

↓ Each year, the Florida Artist Blacksmith Association (FABA) hosts a gift exchange at its annual October conference in Gainesville. This year, the gift prompt was “something that opens.” Journeyman Christopher rose to the challenge by crafting a Pokémon Poké Ball. It is made of handforged copper and steel and opens with a push of the silver button. Next years prompt will be “something that spins.”

↓ Christopher perfects detail work on his fully functional Poké Ball, which he presented at the annual FABA gift exchange in October.

THE GIFT OF GIVING

Channel holiday cheer into the most rewarding gift of all

by PAIGE AIGRET

Across Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton counties, an average of 12.5 percent of residents are experiencing food insecurity, according to numbers reported by Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap study.

A 2025 annual report from the Florida Council on Homelessness reported an estimated 24,498 people are experiencing homelessness on any given night across the state.

Local organizations across the Emerald Coast are here to help, and you can, too. Read on to learn about local efforts and how you can join in to be the change.

OPPORTUNITY PLACE

305 Lovejoy Road NW, Fort Walton Beach (850) 659-3190 opifwb.org | Info@opifwb.org

OPPORTUNITY PLACE

Originating from efforts of the Okaloosa/ Walton Homeless Continuum of Care organization in 2008, Opportunity Place later branched off to establish itself as a sanctuary for families and single women in need of shelter. The organization has since remained steadfast in its efforts to empower families and single women experiencing homelessness to become self-sufficient.

“At Opportunity Place, every hour of volunteer time is a gift that transforms lives,” the organization says. “By volunteering, you become a crucial part of a community dedicated to offering not just shelter but a renewed sense of hope and a path to a brighter future.”

Since the organization’s founding, more than 4,000 children, parents, and single women have found safety, support, and a pathway to success at Opportunity Place.

VOLUNTEER NEEDS

➸ FACILITY UPKEEP: Lawn care and general maintenance

➸ OFFICE ASSISTANCE: Admin tasks, welcoming visitors, and donor facilitation

➸ COMMUNITY EVENTS: Support Opportunity Place and community partners at fundraising events

Contact volunteer coordinator Jean Day at jday@opifwb.org or (850) 598-5592 for more information on volunteer work.

CHARITY

Manna Food Pantries

A Pensacola-based grassroots organization, Manna Food Pantries’ mission is to offer emergency food assistance, service local food-related needs, and engage the community in the fight against hunger.

“We believe every person has a right to live free of hunger and to be treated with respect and dignity,” Manna’s mantra states.

The organization does not receive government funding and is supported by its volunteers and monetary and pantry donations from individuals, foundations, faith-based organizations, corporations, and businesses.

VOLUNTEER NEEDS

➸ Administrative duties

➸ Warehouse and pantry assistance

➸ Client services

Those interested in volunteering on a regular or intermittent basis should visit mannahelps.org/participate/ volunteer to fill out a volunteer form.

MOST NEEDED DONATABLE GOODS

➸ Canned tomatoes (20 oz. or less)

➸ Canned mixed vegetables (20 oz. or less)

➸ Peanut butter (2-lb jars or less and to-go cups)

➸ Chicken or tuna (cans 12.5 oz. or less, or pouches)

➸ Fruit cups (in 100 percent juice, peel-off tops)

➸ Canned fruit (in 100 percent juice, 20 oz. or less)

➸ Oatmeal (boxes of single serve packets)

➸ 100-percent fruit juice boxes or bottles (8 oz. or less)

➸ Microwaveable meals (e.g. Hormel Compleats)

CARING & SHARING OF SOUTH WALTON

Caring & Sharing of South Walton’s origins stem from local efforts by members of the South Walton Ministerial Association. Caring & Sharing was officially formed in July 1994.

In 2020, Caring & Sharing expanded its service area to reach all of Walton County and also expanded its financial assistance, counseling, and case management services and programs.

Caring & Sharing of South Walton is supported by revenue from its thrift store, area churches, foundations, business, and individual donors.

EXPANSION NEEDS

In July 2023, Caring & Sharing purchased an additional space where an expanded food pantry, case management and counseling offices, and a client intake space will be housed.

To support the renovation of this new building and the organization’s current building, email carly@caringandsharingsowal.org.

Food-based donations are accepted Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 3030 North E Street in Pensacola

MANNA FOOD PANTRIES Main Pantry 3030 North E Street, Pensacola (850) 432-2053 | mannahelps.org fooddrives@mannahelps.org

VOLUNTEER NEEDS

➸ Food pantry, packaging

➸ Food pantry, restocking

➸ Food distribution

➸ Thrift store cashier

➸ Boutique

➸ Furniture warehouse counter

➸ Sorting room

➸ Testing electronics

➸ Translator

Beyond volunteering and donating, the community can support Caring & Sharing of South Walton by shopping at its attached thrift store.

To learn more about volunteering, visit the main location at 112 Lynn Drive in Santa Rosa Beach during open business hours, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. or call (850) 267-2866, ext. 202. EC

A Private Wealth Advisor’s guide

to Multigenerational Wealth

Managing multigenerational wealth is more than just growing assets—it’s about ensuring financial security, protecting legacies, and passing down values along with wealth. At Esteem Wealth Partners, we help families implement strategies that secure their financial future while preparing the next generation for responsible stewardship.

FINANCIAL SECURITY IN RETIREMENT: Planning for Longevity

Thanks to advancements in health care, many of us will live healthier and longer lives, and we are experiencing it

firsthand with our elders. Take my wife’s grandmother for instance: Nan turned 102 years old in January and decided not to renew her driver’s license because she didn’t want to be bothered with retaking the driving test. Ensuring a comfortable retirement that can last into our hundreds while preserving wealth for future generations requires careful planning. A well-structured retirement plan includes diversified income streams, tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, and a long-term investment approach. By integrating insurance, investments, and tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and Roth IRAs, families can maintain financial independence while ensuring that assets remain intact for heirs.

PORTFOLIO DIVERSIFICATION:

Balancing Growth and Stability

A diversified portfolio is essential for protecting wealth from market fluctuations and economic uncertainty. Strategic asset allocation across equities, fixed income, real estate, and alternative investments can provide stability while maximizing returns. Affluent families should also consider private equity, private credit, and hedge funds to create a well-rounded portfolio that aligns with their long-term goals.

ESTATE PLANNING:

Protecting and Passing Down Wealth

Many people think of estate planning as where their assets will go when they die through beneficiary designations, but it also includes strategic ownership titling for assets and insurances.

Households with a net worth above the estate tax lifetime exemption ($13.99 million per individual or $27.98 million for married couples in 2025) should contemplate gifting assets while living to minimize future taxes and optimize legacy to beneficiaries. Without a proper estate plan, wealth can be significantly diminished by taxes, legal battles, and mismanagement. Establishing wills, powers of attorney, and the proper types of trusts for your situation ensures that assets are distributed to the right beneficiaries, at the right time, in the right way, with minimum expense and delay. Additionally, open communication about inheritance plans helps prevent disputes and prepares heirs for financial responsibility.

PHILANTHROPIC ENDEAVORS:

Creating a Meaningful Impact

Many families incorporate philanthropy as part of their legacy, ensuring that their wealth benefits both their descendants and society. Donor-advised funds, charitable trusts, and private family foundations allow for strategic giving while providing tax benefits. Encouraging younger generations to participate in philanthropy helps instill financial discipline and a sense of social responsibility. By integrating financial security, strategic investing, estate planning, and philanthropy, families can build a lasting legacy. Multigenerational wealth management is not just about preserving assets—it’s about fostering financial literacy, responsible stewardship, and a shared vision for the future.

About the Author

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Esteem Wealth Partners, a Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group, expanded to 30A when Brent Shaw opened a new office at Watersound Town Center in January 2024. Shaw and his partners at Esteem are dedicated to delivering comprehensive financial solutions. They serve a diverse clientele, including executives, business owners, physicians, and retirees, tailoring wealth management plans to achieve optimal outcomes and financial security. Shaw holds multiple designations, including Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Wealth Management Certified Professional (WMCP®) and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®). He has been individually recognized by Forbes Best In-State Financial Security Professionals, ranking in the top 10 in the last three consecutive years. Esteem has also been named Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams in 2024 and 2025. At Esteem, their mission is to empower you to make impactful financial decisions while exceeding your expectations. To schedule an initial consultation, feel free to contact Brent Shaw directly at brent.shaw@nm.com or 513-759-8810.

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, many people experience changes in mood, energy, and motivation. At Bridgeway Center, Inc. (BCI), we understand that Seasonal Affective Disorder is more than just the “winter blues.” It’s a real condition that affects thousands every year — but hope and help are available.

You don’t have to face it alone. Our compassionate mental health professionals are here to help you manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and fatigue that often accompany the winter months. Through counseling, therapy, and supportive services, we can help you rediscover balance, joy, and resilience.

Bridgeway Center, Inc.

Bridging the Way to Hope, Healing, Recovery, and Resilience.

BRIDGEWAY CENTER,

REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

panache panache

Sequins and silk. Jewels and glitter. Sweaters and stockings. The holidays are a special time of year when our styles level up in panache and pizzazz.

Holiday gatherings with friends, family, and coworkers keep social calendars booked with dinners, gift exchanges, parties, and more. For many, this means the opportunity to dress a bit bolder and brighter.

“You’re not just getting dressed for another day, you’re stepping into a celebration,” says Marisa Fortenberry, co-owner of Kiki Risa Clothing in Destin.

When considering your look, think festive, fashionable, and fit. What you choose to wear should align with the event, exude your personal style, and make you feel comfortable and confident.

versa-

“We believe in the versatility of an outfit and having pieces that can carry you from a family gathering to a holiday party,” says Carly Collier, digital media manager of Ex Voto Vintage.

Collier, digital media man-

Whether it’s a casual gathering of friends or

Whether it’s a casual gathering of friends or a company party with

colleagues, a holiday party is your time to shine—literally. Take this as your sign to add a glimmer of shimmer to your party looks.

Lily Fortenberry, co-owner of Kiki Risa, says that a dress is a sure bet for holiday wear and suggests a jumpsuit or statement blouse paired with a skirt or trousers and bold accessories.

Collier suggests easy fashion like the Milly Maxi Dress by Ex Voto for a slip-into style that feels instantly polished.

↖ Outfits from Kiki Risa Clothing in Destin clockwise from top left: Shay blouse from Hunter Bell ($398) with Edeness skirt from Love Shack Fancy ($378); Robinne pant from Veronica Beard ($548); and sequin dress ($298)

↖

Not feeling up to dressing for the occasion?

Lily Fortenberry, co-owner of Kiki Risa, says jumpsuits and trouser sets can make a statement, too, when styled with elegance in mind. Opt for upscale looks that move beyond everyday wear.

“With its soft drape and feminine shape, it pairs beautifully with a tall boot or a heel for a look that transitions seamlessly from cocktails to an office party,” Collier says.

Another favorite she recommends is the Ari Midi Dress in sapphire blue.

“The rich jewel tone feels elevated, while the relaxed fit keeps it comfortable,” Collier says. “We especially love it styled with your favorite gold accents for a touch of holiday shimmer.”

For New Year’s Eve, Lily suggests, “A fun sequined dress or an all-black outfit with a great pair of heels and a festive clutch. You can never go wrong with an effortlessly cool jumpsuit either.”

With a chill likely being in the air, Collier advises topping any look off with a statementmaking jacket like the Alice Jacket by Ex Voto.

“It brings a little edge when paired with leather pants,” Collier says.

A little black dress always stuns when well accessorized. Jewelry and hair and clothing accents can bring a look to life and offer an outlet to experiment with trends.

“Accessories are a key component to jazzing up any outfit,” Marisa says. “During the holidays, a fun way to enhance your outfit would be some layered necklaces or stacked rings, scarves, and shawls to keep you cozy but also chic, or add in a bold, fun shoe to tie the look together.”

Where glimmering golds and sleek silvers are always a holiday hit in the hue department, Marisa notes that earthy brown, rust, espresso, and burgundy are popular shades from fall leading into early 2026. Alternatively, try jewel tones such as sapphire, emerald, garnet, or amethyst. The monochromatic look is here to stay, urging you to go all in and all over with your chosen hue.

In the season of more, Collier encourages customers to mix and match fabrics and patterns, adding depth and intrigue.

Whether a family get-together, a company holiday party, or a night out on the town for New Year’s Eve, you can glimmer and gleam just as bright as the holiday decor. EC

← Jewel tones and semiprecious stones make for bold accessories like this 18-inch Carnelian necklace from Ex Voto ($198).

←→ Top left: Ari Midi dress in steel blue tie-dye by Ex Voto ($298) and Willa handbag in tan leather by Ex Voto ($298).

Top right: Alice embroidered jacket in sand dollar by Ex Voto ($249)

Milly Maxi dress in pink and brown tie-dye by Ex Voto ($289)

What’s In Store?

The latest styles in menswear offered by Don

Alans in Pensacola

By PAIGE AIGRET

Since 1954, the family-owned Magnanni luxury brand has remained dedicated to its heritage and shoemaking traditions. Founded in Almansa, Spain, much of the company’s operations still take place in the area with footwear now manufactured in both Spain and Portugal, re ecting a commitment to excellence across borders.

Each pair of Magnanni shoes exempli es the artistry of handmade craftsmanship, distinguished by the use of superior materials and sophisticated, hand-painted patinas. This fusion of classic silhouettes with contemporary updates has established the brand as a leader in premium footwear.

SHOP THESE LOOKS AND MORE AT THE LOCALLY OWNED DON ALANS IN DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA. 401 South Palafox Street, Pensacola (850) 439-1762

➸ The HAANS PLAIN TOE DERBIES are a refined essential for the modern gentleman. Designed with a round almond toe and set on a durable rubber sole, this versatile dress shoe offers both timeless style and everyday comfort. The clean plain toe silhouette makes it ideal for everything from business attire to smart-casual wear. Expertly crafted for allday support, the Haans is your go-to mens’ dress shoe for effortless sophistication and polished appeal.

➸ Classic craftsmanship meets modern elegance with the VIENTO BELT, expertly handcrafted from ultra-supple calfskin leather and finished with a distinctive hand-painted patina for rich depth and character. A sleek, square-shaped brushed nickel buckle adds a timeless touch, making this mens’ leather dress belt a refined choice for both formal and everyday wear. Designed for versatility and durability, it effortlessly complements tailored trousers, suits, and upscale-casual looks. The Viento belt is a wardrobe staple that delivers subtle sophistication for any occasion.

JACK VICTOR

Tom Beckbe

A brand inspired by native roots and the rolling red clay hills and hardwood bottoms of Alabama, TOM BECKBE draws on the legacy of countless generations of sportsmen who have roamed the Tombigbee River as bold and intrepid caretakers of one of North America’s great ecosystems.

➸ Part of Tom Beckbe’s collection of weatherproof, waxed-cotton jackets and vests, THE PIEDMONT JACKET is built with all the proven durability and technical features that the fine sporting apparel brand is known for. The Piedmont has a lightweight, weatherproof 6-ounce waxedcotton shell that is ideal for moderate climates. Available in field tan, tobacco, rye brown, hardwood, and navy.

Curating mens’ wardrobe with timeless, elegant pieces, JACK VICTOR offers thoughtfully designed menswear that adapts to the lifestyle of the modern man. The brand’s designs go beyond seasonal trends and will stand the test of time. Founded in 1913, Jack Victor remains a family-owned brand with a commitment to accessible luxury and brand heritage. Crafted from pure wool, the single-breasted, two-button MIDLAND BLAZER features a refined light taupe and grey plaid with a subtly milled finish for a refined yet casual appeal. Designed for effortless versatility, its unconstructed, half-lined interior ensures lightweight comfort and a relaxed drape, making it perfect for layering across seasons. A classic notch lapel, lower flap pockets, an upper welt breast pocket, and interior pockets add functional elegance, while inserted sleeves with fine pic-stitching showcase expert craftsmanship. Dressed up or worn casually, this blazer is a timeless wardrobe essential.

McCASKILL & COMPANY DAZZLES

1. ERICA COURTNEY PASTEL SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND PENDANT

Taking center stage, a luminous pastel sapphire is encircled by diamonds creating a piece that radiates timeless elegance and sophistication.

2. ERICA COURTNE KUNZITE AND DIAMOND PENDANT

The blush of a dazzling kunzite pendant framed in diamonds creates a breathtaking feminine piece.

3. ERICA COURTNEY RHODOLITE GARNET, YELLOW SAPPHIRE, ORANGE SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND PENDANT

Radiant hues of rhodolite garnet, yellow and orange sapphires, and diamonds create a masterpiece of color and sophistication.

4. KWIAT SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND PENDANT

Classic sophistication meets modern sparkle making this sapphire-and-diamond pendant a timeless treasure.

5. LAUREN K TOURMALINE SLICE BUTTERFLY WITH DIAMONDS AND GEMSTONE SPRINKLES

Whimsical and free-spirited, this colorful butterfly flutters with tourmaline wings accented by gemstones that capture nature’s beauty.

6. KWIAT FABULOUS AMERICAN FLAG PIN WITH DIAMONDS, RUBIES AND SAPPHIRES

A radiant tribute to the Stars and Stripes, this diamond, ruby, and sapphire flag pin highlights patriotic charm.

7. KWIAT BANGLE BRACELETS IN PLATINUM OR 18K WHITE, ROSE OR YELLOW GOLD WITH DIAMONDS

Effortlessly chic, Kwiat’s stackable diamond bangles elevate ensembles with sparkle and understated luxury.

8. MCCASKILL & COMPANY SIGNATURE STUNNING DIAMOND RINGS

These brilliant signature diamond rings from McCaskill & Company embody pure glamour that is perfect for your engagement or celebrating any of life’s special moments.

This holiday season, dazzle and delight with the gift of fine jewelry from McCaskill & Company, featuring the Emerald Coast’s largest and most exclusive selection. Select a luxury Swiss watch, a stunning piece of statement jewelry or give the promise of forever with a hand-selected engagement ring. With a wide variety of your favorite designers and impeccable customer service, McCaskill & Company is the ideal holiday shopping destination.

GIFT GUIDE Holiday

Whether you are looking to put your best face forward at the events of the season or seeking something special for the folks on your nice list, our Holiday Gift Guide has you covered. Sensational shopping is in the bag! Now, that’s the spirit!

OBAGI HYDRATION HEROES GIFT SET

DOZER CUSTOM TRUCKER HATS

The gift everyone actually wants— a custom trucker hat that fits their vibe. Dozer lets you mix and match witty, bold patches for a look that’s as fun as they are. From cowgirls to beach lovers to cool dads, there’s a Dozer for everyone on your list.

DozerCustomTruckerHats.com

SERENITY BY THE SEA

Give the gift of calm with a Serenity by the sea Spa candle, hand-poured with natural and ethical ingredients created to soothe the senses. Pair one with a Serenity gift card for the ultimate gift of relaxation. Available in two signature fragrances exclusively at Serenity by the sea Spa.

Designed to give skin an extra boost of hydration all day and night! Includes a full-size Obagi Hydrate, Obagi Hydro-Drops, and a travel-size foaming cleanser and travel-size Hydro-Drops. $130 (877) 563-3772 | AquaMedicalSpa.com

Panama City | PC Beach

Watersound | Santa Rosa Beach

Fort Walton Beach | Gulf Breeze

4000 Sandestin Boulevard Miramar Beach | (850) 622-2262

SerenityByTheSeaSpa.com

COASTAL SKIN SURGERY & DERMATOLOGY

Give the gift of radiant, healthy skin this season with ZO Skin Health’s anti-aging kit. It’s a moderate skin care program for the reduction of early or significant signs of environmental and chronological aging.

12469 Emerald Coast Parkway Miramar Beach (850) 654-3376

CoastalSkinSurgery.com

Crossing the Finish Line

CoolSculpting ® at Dermatology Specialists of Florida &

Aqua

Medical Spa helps clients reach their body confidence goals

Brittany White, an aesthetician at Aqua Medical Spa in Panama City Beach, meets a lot of people who are very close to loving what they see in the mirror. They’ve done the workouts, watched their diet, and made progress, but a few stubborn areas just won’t budge.

“It can be frustrating,” Brittany admits, “but it’s not unfixable.” That’s where body contouring treatments like CoolSculpting® come in.

CoolSculpting® is a noninvasive, FDA-approved procedure that uses controlled cooling to freeze and permanently eliminate unwanted fat cells. It works through a process called cryolipolysis, which targets specific pockets of fat without harming the surrounding tissue. Over the next few weeks, the treated fat cells are naturally flushed out by the body, revealing a more sculpted look. It’s also a great complement to today’s popular GLP-1 weight loss medications, which often help patients lose pounds overall but don’t always address isolated problem areas.

“This isn’t a weight-loss solution,” Brittany clarifies. “It’s for people who are already living a healthy lifestyle but can’t get rid of those stubborn spots like under the chin, upper arms, abdomen, flanks, or that little bit of bra fat.”

Every patient starts with a complimentary consultation, where a trained aesthetician discusses their goals, treatment areas, and budget. “You’ll come in wearing comfy clothes,” Brittany says. “We’ll mark the areas to be treated and take before photos. Then, once the applicator is placed, it gently pulls in the fat. There’s no pain—just a cool sensation as it starts to do its job.”

Each cycle takes about 35 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. Some patients need multiple applicators or sessions, depending on their goals, but downtime is minimal. Side effects, if any, are mild and temporary. Some clients experience temporary numbness, redness, or swelling.

Results aren’t immediate, but they’re long-lasting. “You’ll start noticing changes around week six, with full results showing up around 12 weeks,” Brittany says. “The treated fat cells are gone for good, but staying active and eating well helps maintain your results.”

For Brittany, the best part is seeing her patients’ reactions at their follow-up appointments. “I love showing the before and after photos,” she says. “You can see the confidence come back that moment when they realize they finally crossed the finish line. It’s so rewarding.”

Brittany White Aesthetician

WELL READ

Palm Beach Media Group delivers the finest reader experience across a family of Lifestyle, Design and Special Interest titles for the Florida market. Find us on your local newsstand or by visiting our website to see how we cover Florida from a reader’s point of view.

↙ Travel the Intracoastal Waterway and the Mississippi River, from Pensacola to New Orleans, over a seven-day riverboat excursion.

CRUISE TO THE BIG EASY

New Gulf Coast cruise route takes passengers on a scenic route from Pensacola to New Orleans

by KARI C. BARLOW

Anew Gulf Coast cruise will take passengers from historic Pensacola to the vibrant streets of New Orleans— and vice versa.

The seven-night, eight-day voyage offered by American Cruise Lines will charter trips in March and December of each year. The new scenic route debuts on March 1, 2026, and several of its first weeks are already sold out.

“We are always looking to add new and interesting cruise itineraries all over

the United States of America and are especially expanding offerings that explore more Southernly coastal states,” says Alexa Paolella, public relations manager with American Cruise Lines.

As the country’s largest domestic river and small-ship cruise line, American Cruise Lines currently has 28 new small ships—all built in the United States—sailing year-round with more than 50 domestic itineraries. The vessels stop only at U.S. ports and always sail within sight of land.

“Our vibe is personalized, relaxed, and comfortable fun!” Paolella says. “We take care of everything for our guests from ship to shore and from booking to boarding. Cruises are all-inclusive of everything on board from cuisine to alcohol to entertainment and Wi-Fi.”

The new Gulf Coast cruise, which is also available in a reverse itinerary, will embark on its journey from Pensacola and coast along the Intracoastal Waterway and the Mississippi River, including ports of call in Mobile, Biloxi, Ocean Springs, Gulf Port, and New Orleans.

“Beyond the scenic views and amenities on board, the shoreside experiences on our cruises are where we shine,” Paolella says. “The new Gulf Coast cruises will offer a host of diverse experiences each day.”

Passengers can book pre-cruise hotel stays in either Pensacola or New Orleans, depending on which direction they are traveling.

↑↗ The American Symphony riverboat travels between Pensacola, Florida and New Orleans, Louisiana with additional port stops in Mobile, Alabama, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and Gulf Port, Mississippi.

In Pensacola, recommended activities include downtown shopping, art galleries, dining on fresh local seafood, and visiting the National Naval Aviation Museum. Mobile offers passengers a visit to the Gulf Coast Gator Ranch, tours of the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, or a historic Mobile trolley adventure. Along the Mississippi coast, passengers can experience an authentic shrimp boat adventure in Biloxi, take an electric bike tour of beachy and artsy Ocean Springs, and explore historic Ship Island—and Fort Massachusetts, which served as a crucial Union base during the Civil War—just off Gulfport. In New Orleans, passengers will find all manner of cultural riches, from local jazz and art to the Cajun and Creole delicacies of the French Quarter. There will be time to tour world-famous attractions such as St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, the French Market, and the National WWII Museum.

Gulf Coast cruise passengers will sail aboard the American Symphony, one of American Cruise Lines’ nine modern riverboats accommodating up to 180 guests.

“Our riverboats are world class but smaller, so they are without some of the excess amenities found on large ships,” Paolella said. “We have no swimming pools or casinos. Instead, we have spacious all-balcony staterooms with king-sized beds, simple recreational spaces like small gyms and walking tracks, and comfortable indoor and outdoor lounges—all practical, well thought out spaces our guests use and appreciate.”

The American Symphony also features a unique bow ramp for easy boarding, elevator access to all passenger decks, dining

rooms with water views from every seat, and a multi-story glass atrium.

Paolella says the cruise line’s mission is to provide intimate journeys that highlight scenic beauty, local history, and onboard enrichment.

“Our cruises are destination focused, and the itineraries are fully curated,” she says. “On board, we have enrichment, lectures, and local entertainment as well as cooking demonstrations, painting classes, and more.”

While river cruising has traditionally attracted a mature and often retired demographic, the new Gulf Coast route is expected to spark interest among new segments of the population.

“All of our U.S. cruises are about accessing and exploring the destinations and smaller ports that large ocean ships don’t go to,” Paolella says. “We see the audience for our offerings broadening each year.” EC

←↑ The American Symphony offers the comforts of home matched with unparalleled views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Mississippi River.

↑→ Built in 2022, the American Symphony riverboat has a 180-passenger capacity and features casual and upscale dining, a sky walk, game room, lounge areas with views, a fitness center, and more.

WELCOME TO MIAMI

American Airlines offers new direct flight from VPS to MIA

While we may be in the sunshine state, Northwest Florida is sure to experience a few chilly days throughout winter. If you’re coming down with a case of the winter blues, you can now easily y south for winter thanks to American Airlines’ new, direct twohour ights from the Emerald Coast to the Magic City.

Beginning December 19, 2025, yers can catch a nonstop daily ight from the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport to the Miami International Airport.

“Florida is a large state, and intrastate air travel has been historically limited outside of big cities,” says Tracy Stage, Okaloosa County airports director. “A direct VPS-MIA route makes it much easier for residents to visit family, attend events, or vacation within Florida, instead of treating in-state travel like an interstate trek.”

Previously, travelers would either have to drive 10-plus hours or catch connecting ights in hubs such as Atlanta, Charlotte, or Dallas. Fares will start around $292 roundtrip, making it a ordable for both leisure and business travelers.

This easy breezy ight is also a delight for those seeking to go international with Miami being a hub for travel to Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe. Now, passengers will no longer have to y north and connect in order to y south to Miami and beyond.

“Miami is the ultimate destination—easy to reach, rich in culture, and lled with world-class venues,” Stage says.

MAPPING OUT MIAMI

TASTES OF CUBA

Little Havana pulses as Miami’s Cuban hub. Wander down Calle Ocho, the dynamic center street, to be immersed in the vibrant and welcoming Latin culture. Stop into a cafe for a strong Cuban coffee and a savory Cuban sandwich piled high with roast pork and ham. Into the evening, take a seat at a rum bar where Latin music and puffs of fine Cuban cigar smoke waft through the air. Head to Maximo Gomez Park, also known as Domino Park, to watch a heated dominos match, a tradition spanning over 50 years. This lively neighborhood features Latin American arts and culture through galleries, studios, theaters, live music venues, and more.

by REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

Art Everywhere

Miami is often synonymous with Wynwood Walls, a globally recognized museum of street art. By foot, you can take an immersive art walk viewing art from over 100 artists from 21 countries. The over 80,000 square feet of muraled walls stand as a beacon representing the beauty, revitalization, and impact of modern art. The colorful, eye-catching art serves as keepsake photo opportunities for travelers.

The Art Deco Historic District features over 800 preserved homes and buildings spanning the 1920s through the 1940s that showcase the signature Miami Art Deco design. Pastel hues paired with neon signs and geometric patterns are signatures of the Art Deco architecture movement, becoming trademarks to Miami’s heritage.

← Ocean Drive is home to Art Deco-style hotels and buildings often featured in movies and TV shows including Dexter, Scarface, The Bird Cage, and others.

↑ Calle Ocho, located in the Little Havana neighborhood, is vibrant with Cuban culture.

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

Miami’s infamous Lincoln Road merges shopping, art, and commerce as one of the most unique shopping districts in the world. Lincoln Road is more than one road, it’s an eight-block-long pedestrian mall designed by architect Morris Lapidus. The architecture and street art are worth visiting alone, but paired with over 200 designer stores and delicious restaurants, it’s an all-day destination.

The Miami Design District is a must-go for luxury shoppers. Alongside high-end global designers such as Chanel, Gucci, Maison Margiela, and more, you can shop art galleries to acquire your next conversation piece by an acclaimed artist or emerging talent.

BEACH IT

If you’re seeking the ultimate Miami experience, a stop at South Beach is a requirement. This legendary stretch of beach features Art Deco hotels and vibrantly hued lifeguard stations. Water activities abound by day, and the area’s nightlife thrives. Ocean Drive is the hot spot with the city’s chic cafes, cool clubs, and emphasis on local art. If you’re seeking a more secluded and restorative experience, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park or Historic Virginia Key Beach Park are more your speed. These beaches showcase Florida’s untouched beauty, are family-friendly, and are rich in historic sites. EC

South Beach Nightlife

Inside

Wynwood Walls

Wynwood District

Lincoln Road

Franklin’s Gifts

Teeming with unspoiled nature, seasonal wildlife, and events, Franklin County makes this holiday season one to remember

Boasting hundreds of thousands of acres of pristine, protected wilderness, Franklin County is heaven for hikers. Within Tate’s Hell State Forest, visitors can traipse among ancient, 150-year-old dwarf cypress trees, native pitcher plants, and coastal scrub ecosystems that populate the High Bluff Coastal Hiking Trail along the St. George Sound.

For photographers, shell collectors, and wanderers wishing to get lost in nature, the 12,350-acre barrier island, St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge, is just a 22-mile boat or ferry ride from Apalachicola, offering over 14 miles of shoreline and 80 miles of sand roads. Meanwhile, sites such as the forested salt marshes of Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island and Bald Point State Parks offer opportunities for wildlife encounters, where black bears, ghost crabs, raccoons, and loggerhead turtles share space with migratory birds.

Franklin County is an ideal spot for aviary enthusiasts and lepidopterists. In addition to the common monarch butterflies, you’re likely to find families of swallowtails, gossamer-winged and brushfooted butterflies, metalmarks and skippers.

Birders are encouraged to pack their binoculars and cameras to capture glimpses of around 300 native and itinerant species, including peregrine falcons, hawks, terns, and the endangered snowy plover, which make their homes both within the area’s numerous preserves.

Top birdwatching spots include Old Carrabelle Beach, renowned for its shallow oyster beds populated by shorebirds such as black skimmers, sanderlings, and ruddy turnstones; Wright’s Lake Recreational Area within the Apalachicola National Forest for numerous woodpecker and hawk species; and the picturesque streets of

Apalachicola itself, where old-growth pines shelter bald eagles, hawks, and barred owls, and its waterfront hosts egrets, herons, and other wading birds.

Beyond these outdoor experiences, the cities of Franklin County offer mustattend holiday festivities in December. On Saturday, December 6, the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce presents the Holiday Fresh Market. Come for the day or the weekend and find one-of-akind unusual presents. Shop in a relaxed, hassle-free environment in an outdoor setting. The fun annual event runs from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. and features handcrafted Apalachicola specialties such as baked goods, artwork, wood carving, pottery, and hand-knitted goods. Join Eastpoint for the annual Christmas Celebration on Friday, December 12. Parade line up begins at 4 p.m. behind Seller’s Plaza. The parade begins at South Franklin Street and runs to First Street, then kids go to the Eastpoint Fire Station for their treats and gifts from Santa.

Carrabelle will host its twenty-ninth annual Holiday on the Harbor Festival and Boat Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 13 along Carrabelle’s downtown waterfront beginning at 11

a.m. and lasting until the boat parade at dark thirty. Enjoy an afternoon and evening of food and fun featuring a street festival with children’s activities. Merchants will be open late. In the evening, watch the parade of festive boats decked out in Christmas lights and decor in celebration of the holidays followed by a festive fireworks display.

Florida’s Forgotten Coast

SEEK & SAVOR

A local’s guide to the unforgettable sips, sights and bites of Italy

When Eliana Ciao—known locally for the Tipsy Mule Mobile Bar that she owns and operates out of a vintage horse trailer— began teaching pasta making in private home kitchens and partnered venues, a guest asked her if she’d gone to culinary school.

“I said, ‘No, these are just the recipes I was raised making with my Nonna,” says Ciao, who grew up in a Southern Italian fishing village before moving to the Emerald Coast a decade ago. “I began sharing stories with them, and somebody said that they wished they could see these places they’ve never heard of, that they could go with me.”

The gears began ticking in Ciao’s entrepreneurial mind, and her newest business venture, Seek & Savor was born. A culinary and culture crawl across Italy, Seek & Savor is an immersive, privately guided tour curated through the personal relationships Ciao has spent building over a lifetime.

“In my culture, food, family, and connection are everything,” Ciao says. “When I started taking guests back with me, I didn’t want to just show them popular monuments and landmarks, I wanted them to feel Italy the way I experienced it growing up, through people, flavors, laughter at long tables, and the hidden corners most tourists never see.”

To keep things intimate, Ciao says she prefers taking no more than 14 guests per tour. Her inaugural trip last September hosted 11 travelers who explored the Eternal City of Rome, ancient Paestum and the gems of the Amalfi and Cilento coasts over the span of nine days, with an itinerary packed with must-see attractions and activities, while also leaving plenty of time for personal shopping

excursions, exploration, and relaxation to soak it all in.

“We visited small, family-run farms, met local chefs, winemakers, fishermen, artisans, and friends who welcomed my guests like family,” Ciao says. “It’s like being invited into the soul of a place. We stay in charming boutique hotels, we cook with the locals, dance under the stars, and wander off the beaten path.”

And 2026 is gearing up to be even more special, as Ciao has already planned excursions to some of her favorite destinations, where guests will experience cooking lessons in authentic, Sicilian family kitchens, countryside truffle hunts, olive oil and private vineyard tastings, and walks through time among ancient architecture.

But Ciao says what guests can truly look forward to most is the feeling of belonging, joy and discovering a new place through the eyes of someone who truly loves it.

“I remember on our recent trip when we were in Agropoli, my hometown,” Ciao recalls. “We gathered around a long table at a tiny trattoria overlooking the sea, where the owner, a family friend of mine, made us handmade pasta and opened bottles of his own wine. My travelers danced the tarantella with locals that night. No fancy tourist attraction could ever replace that kind of joy and connection.”

Ciao says it’s her goal to curate trips that feel “personal and flexible,” like traveling with a friend who knows all the secret doors.

“My favorite thing to hear at the end of each trip is, ‘I don’t want to go home,’ or, ‘This changed my life,’” she says. “These are the feelings I want to create.”

Seasonal Sensations

Fish Out of Water’s new all-day menu offers tastes of the coast

After nearly three decades of commanding the kitchens of prestigious properties such as the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, the Boca Raton Resort & Club, and even serving as the executive chef for the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park, Chef Louis Martorano yearned for a return to a refined, community-focused approach to cuisine.

“I found that in WaterColor at Fish Out of Water, a restaurant with a philosophy rooted in freshness, seasonality and storytelling through food,” says Martorano, who became Director of Culinary at WaterColor

Inn & Resort last year. “Each dish aims to showcase the beauty of this region as it changes with the seasons, and we want guests to enjoy our cuisine without it ever feeling repetitive.”

As winter approached the coast, Martorano says he was inspired to create a new menu that evoked the ideas of “warmth, depth, and comfort,” highlighting ingredients available locally that create dishes that encourage cozy camaraderie and repeat visits.

“One standout is our Pecan 205° Smoked Tuna Dip,” Martorano says. “We cure the tuna in-house using our own proprietary recipe, then smoke

it low and slow at 205 degrees for 90 minutes. It gives it a rich, deep flavor and silky texture, which you can scoop up with our Southern spicy crackers.”

With grouper season in its prime, Martorano also aims to showcase it among the new offerings as a handheld, a featured entrée, and in a classic fried basket. He considers the fish a “jewel of the Gulf” that represents the region, and loves it for its quality and versatility, as he can experiment with it by incorporating ingredients such as locally grown tomatoes and other seasonal produce to highlight the area’s natural flavors.

“Our new Peach & Tomato Burrata is especially meaningful to me, both personally and creatively,” he says. “I’ve been a fan of burrata for years, and this dish has followed me to nearly every kitchen I’ve had the privilege of leading. When I discovered these beautiful Alabama peaches, I knew they had to be a part of it as their natural sweetness adds a whole new dimension, and the colors on the plate are so bright and inviting, it almost feels too beautiful to eat.”

But what makes Fish Out of Water a true community staple is its dedication to staying true to its values, honoring guest-favorite dishes, and delivering bold, fresh flavors in a laid-back environment.

“The key is evolution not disruption,” Martorano says. “We want to refresh your experience without losing the soul of what guests love.”

For Martorano, his biggest wish is that guests leave feeling as if they’ve discovered something special from a culinary experience deeply rooted in community and curated with care.

“Whether they’re locals or visiting for the first time, we want them to feel like they’ve had a memorable meal with friends in a space that feels like home,” he says.

Pecan 205° Smoked Tuna Dip

Grouper entrée

Peach & Tomato Burrata

Chef Louis Martorano

gastro

→ SIGNATURES FROM SWIFTLY CATERED

“We serve close to 3,000 pounds of our sliced lemon herb turkey breast each year,” Kyle Swift says. “Some of our other most popular items include Southern corn casserole, sage dressing, and Blue Mountain Bakery cinnamon roll bread pudding.”

DINING IN

HOMEMADE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Impress your guests with a homemade holiday spread by REBECCA PADGETT FRETT

DEC 2025/JAN 2026

DINING, IMBIBING, AND LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST

gastro & gusto

The holidays are so tightly tied to memory—the scent of your grandma’s pumpkin pie baking, the taste of the brined turkey seasoned with dad’s secret recipe, or your aunt’s cornbread stuffing that always sends you back for thirds.

In a world where we typically rely heavily on boxed, prepped, and premade foods, it feels particularly sentimental to respond to guests’ compliments with, “Oh, that? it’s homemade.”

Whether you consider yourself chef status in the kitchen or simply want to dabble in preparing a homemade side dish or two, holiday cooking can be rewarding and, dare we say, fun.

Start by ideating your menu—a main dish or two, side dishes, appetizers, and desserts, for example. Decide what you want to cook yourself, what you may want others to bring, what ingredients you’ll need, and any special orders you’ll want to place with expert local providers.

“Don’t be afraid to delegate,” says Sarah K. Schreifer, owner of Sarah K’s Gourmet in Destin. “It makes the work lighter, more fun, and a whole lot less stressful. Let family or friends bring a side or dessert so you can focus on enjoying the day as well.”

Many recipes can be made or prepped one to two days ahead of your dinner party.

“If you prepare the meal in advance, the house won’t be a mess, and you will look like a pro when you are pulling out casserole dishes and pans from the oven ready to serve,” says Kyle Swift, owner of Swiftly Catered in South Walton.

Swift advises using stainless steel stackable buffet pans, allowing you to remove racks from your oven to stack cooked side dishes to keep warm on low heat, 200 to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Right before you are ready to serve, bump the heat up, then keep those pans stacked on the counter while you heat up the more time-sensitive meats.

Take inspiration from cooking shows, online cooking blogs, Pinterest, magazines, or even your own family members when deciding on the menu items you want to make. Swiftly Catered, Blue Mountain Bakery, and Sarah K’s Gourmet, provided three recipes that are a hit with their company and are sure to be palette pleasers at your table. EC

LEMON HERB ROASTED TURKEY BREAST

INGREDIENTS

➸ 1 boneless turkey breast roast, tender intact, and skin-on

DRY RUB

➸ ¼ cup lemon pepper seasoning (preferred brand Lawry’s)

➸ ½ cup dry Italian seasoning

➸ ¼ lb. unsalted butter

➸ 2 tbsp. olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

Keep the skin and tender fully intact on the large boneless turkey breast. Use a roasting pan or heavy-duty foil pan. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit with the convection fan on. If you don’t have convection, change the temperature to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rub the turkey breast with olive oil. Fully coat the turkey with a thin layer of the dry seasoning, and rub it under the skin. Spread room-temperature butter to fully cover the breast. Lightly sprinkle the bottom of the pan with seasoning and the top of the turkey with additional seasoning. Place the turkey in the oven uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes or until the skin is crispy and brown. Once the skin begins to brown, you can also baste it with the pan juices and butter to help get a more crispy and uniform brown color. Remove the breast from the oven when it is fully browned. Turn the oven temperature down to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and wait until the oven has dropped down. Cover the pan loosely with foil, but don’t fully seal the foil

Recipe courtesy of Swiftly Catered

closed. Bake another 25 to 45 minutes or until the temperature at the thickest part reaches 150 degrees Fahrenheit. It will continue to cook another 10 degrees or more in the pan.

Let the turkey rest, covered in foil and sitting in the pan juices, for 30 minutes, remove the juices from the pan. Place the breast on a cutting board and slice to about ¼- to ½-inch thick or your preferred thickness. Heat up the juices and drizzle back over the sliced turkey before serving.

This process can also be done 1 to 2 days in advance to save time. Slice and store the turkey fully covered in the fridge. Bake fully covered at 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit until warm. Heat up and drizzle over the remaining pan juice just before serving.

If making an entire homemade spread is daunting or you don’t have the time or energy to commit to cooking this year, consider a premade option that tastes just like a family member made it. Sarah K’s Gourmet and Swiftly Catered offer holiday meal packages or al a carte options to complement your own menu.

“Take-and-heat meals give you the best of both worlds,” said Schreifer. “You serve a delicious, homemade quality holiday meal without spending days in the kitchen.”

CLASSIC LAYERED LETTUCE SALAD

Recipe courtesy of Sarah K’s Gourmet

INGREDIENTS

➸ 1 medium head of lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces

➸ 2 stalks of celery, finely sliced

➸ 1 small sweet onion, approximately ¼ cup, finely sliced

➸ ¼ cup sugar

➸ 1 cup sour cream

➸ ½ cup mayonnaise

➸ 2 tbsp. wine vinegar

➸ Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

INSTRUCTIONS

Place the torn lettuce pieces on a shallow plate. Add the finely sliced celery and onion on top of the lettuce, layering the ingredients evenly.

In a bowl, mix the sugar and sour cream until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the salad, making sure to cover the edges. In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and wine vinegar. Pour this mixture over the top of the salad. Sprinkle the entire salad with Parmesan cheese.

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

↑ FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

Recipe courtesy of Blue Mountain Bakery

INGREDIENTS

➸ 1 loaf of brioche bread

➸ 8 large eggs

➸ ½ cup melted butter

➸ 1½ cups whole milk

➸ ½ cup Prosecco

➸ ½ cup orange juice

➸ ½ cup heavy cream

➸ 2 tsp. vanilla extract

➸ ½ cup light brown sugar

➸ 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

➸ ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg

➸ ¼ tsp. all spice

➸ Pinch of salt

➸ ¼ cup maple syrup

INSTRUCTIONS

Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a baking dish in an even layer.

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, Prosecco, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, all spice, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the dish from the fridge and let sit for 15 minutes while the oven heats. Cover the baking dish with foil and set on a center rack. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the French toast has puffed up. Top with maple syrup and melted butter.

TOP TAKEAWAYS FROM SARAH K’S

“We are known for our signature crab cakes,” Schreifer says. “We ship them across the United States for the holidays and often joke to ‘give crab cakes’ instead of fruit cakes. Our holiday sides, like cornbread dressing and sweet potato casserole, have become traditions for many families.”

BAKED GOODS

BON APPETIT

Patience and plenty of butter keep the magic of French patisserie alive at this local bakery

by LIESEL SCHMIDT

There’s something undeniably magical about a good croissant.

Flour, butter, water, milk, yeast, sugar, and salt combine to transform into fluffy, flaky, and impossibly light confections. But croissant production is no simple feat, rather the result of a multistep, labor-intensive process of mixing and kneading followed by at least three repetitions of rolling and laminating. When done well, the end result creates that well-loved signature texture of airy flakiness.

It’s a process that Bon Appetit Bakery and Cafe owners Vasken and Janice Palanjian are all too familiar with—one that the Palanjian family has been practicing daily since Vasken’s late father Souren first opened the French patisserie-style cafe in 1983.

A third-generation baker, Vasken grew up running around his grandfather’s bakery in Lebanon where the Palanjian family later emigrated from. The quaint bakery in Fort Walton Beach, Florida was a distant dream until 1976 when Vasken’s father Souren moved the family of bakers to the United States to build a new life.

Bon Appetit found an unlikely home in small-town Fort Walton Beach. And there it has stayed for more than four decades as Fort Walton Beach’s first and only French bakery. It’s a singular distinction in a town that has changed immensely in those 40-plus years,

Before emigrating to the

←↑ Bread requires an early bird routine and an adherence to schedule. Bon Appetit Bakery and Cafe bakers start at 3 a.m. each morning in order to supply enough croissants and baked goods to meet the daily demands of the community. Still, they sometimes run out of favorites like the Nutella croissant and the everythingseasoned, cream cheese croissant.

United States, Vasken Palanjian was passed on traditional pastry techniques from his grandfather who learned from bakers in a nearby French colony.

experiencing with it all the events that shaped the landscape, from building booms and recessions to hurricanes and a global pandemic.

While pretty much everything about running a business has changed since 1983, the process of making the perfect croissant still requires time, patience, and plenty of butter.

In an era when convenience often eclipses craft, Bon Appetit Bakery and Cafe remains a delicious reminder that some things are worth the work and the wait.

While most of us are still hours away from hitting the snooze button on our alarms, the lights are already coming on at Bon Appetit, where the bakers arrive as early as 3 a.m. A 6 a.m. crew arrives to load the display cases and pack up wholesale deliveries for local restaurants in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Rosemary Beach, and Bluewater Bay. By 7 a.m., kitchen and front-of-house staff begin arriving to prepare for opening. While the cafe begins its daily hustle and bustle, the bakers prep dough for the next day’s batches.

The quality of their product is proven with every batch, from pastries and boules baked fresh each day to the myriad confections that grace the display case daily. Consistency and quality keep guests returning.

“We have a multitude of regulars,” Vasken notes. “We have a group of men that come in almost daily. They don’t

even have to order—we just put their food on their table.”

Limited though their hours may be— Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays until noon—Bon Appetit maintains a near-cult following. And the regulars know to arrive early before favorites sell out and the cozy dining room fills up. After more than 40 years, that kind of popularity speaks to everything they’re doing right.

Though not natives, the Palanjians have spent a lifetime in Fort Walton Beach, serving generation after generation of locals and visitors, too.

“It’s amazing to see the generations of customers who visit the bakery,” Vasken says. “I remember a woman who used to come in regularly, pushing her son in a stroller. My dad would always spoil him with little treats. That little boy has since grown into a successful businessman right here in town—and now, we’re proud to be doing business with him.”

Beyond baked goods, Bon Appetit has a full menu of lunch offerings including a rotating soup selection and sandwiches built around the shop’s freshly baked bread and croissants. Fresh-made goodies range from signature croissants with both sweet and savory filling options to Danishes, cookies, tarts, and cakes.

One of Vasken’s personal favorite treats is the Chocolate Success, made with almond meringue and crushed almonds, iced with chocolate buttercream and topped with Swiss chocolate.

For locals and travelers alike, a visit isn’t merely about breakfast or a midday treat—it’s a small ritual of connection to both people and place. EC

← After moving his family to the United States in 1976, the late Souren Palanjian opened Bon Appetit Bakery and Cafe in Fort Walton Beach in 1983. The patisserie-style cafe would be Souren’s legacy, carried on by his son Vasken and the Palanjian family following Souren’s passing in 2023. Located at 420 Mary Esther Cut Off NW, Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548. For more information, call (850) 244-2848 or visit bonappetitfrenchbakery.com

West Garden District

East Hill

RHYTHM OF THE BOROUGHS

East Pensacola Heights

Character and charm illuminate pocket neighborhoods in metropolitan Pensacola

story by CARRIE HONAKER

BPENSACOLA BAY

etween Pensacola’s iconic beaches and historic facades lies a city in motion, where every block offers a new layer of discovery. Wander down 12th Avenue and hear the hum of vinyl spinning in a local record shop. Step into a seltzer-based cocktail lounge tucked behind a brewery, where neon shines and Miami Vicethemed cocktails rule. Savor the smell of freshly brewed coffee drifting from a sidewalk cafe, or run your fingers over the vintage finds in an indie boutique. Each neighborhood—the East Hill Corridor, West Garden District, East Pensacola Heights, and BelmontDevilliers—has its own rhythm.

EAST HILL’S 12TH AVENUE CORRIDOR: Where History Meets Hip

In this historic, one-mile corridor, you’ll find generations-old bakeries and dive bars with stories to tell— and yes, people still wave from their porches.

Ashley and Alex Lamonte, owners of Lamonte Gelato and A Mano Panino, chose this area because it felt familiar—Ashley grew up in Pensacola, and Alex lived in Italy, where neighborhoods are tight-knit and deeply connected to food culture.

“We wanted it to be community driven,” Ashley says. “East Hill has a ton of small families, and it’s very small-business-centered, which is part of why we love it.”

The old and spooky Sacred Heart Hospital building now houses not only the Lamontes’ gelato and sandwich shops but also The Burrow beer garden, A Curious Wine Shop, and O’Zone Pizza Pub—a possibly haunted favorite that’s been slinging pies for nearly three decades. Wander a little farther and you’ll find J’s Bakery & Cafe, open since 1946, still drawing crowds for its signature smiley face cookies. Right next door, newcomers like Jitterbug Beverage Co. bring modern energy with vegan options, LGBTQ+ pride, and a side of vinyl at its in-house record shop.

You’ll find that same mix of personality and purpose at spots like Alga Beer Co., known for funky brews and community events, plus Jell-O shots and seltzers at its Miami Vice-themed Florida Room and smash burgers from the on-site food truck, Brown Bagger. Just down the street, East Hill Wine Bar offers upscale sips in a laid-back setting. And a few blocks away, Wisteria Tavern—which started as a grocery store in the 1920s—serves up cold beer with arcade games and a backyard-style courtyard that hosts food trucks and weekend markets.

The best part? You can walk—or golf cart—from one place to the next.

“There’s a park every few blocks. It’s so easy to walk around, and there’s always something to do,” Ashley says.

You can start your day with a juice run to Good Day, Darling or wind down with a Crop Top trendy gin cocktail and smoked chicken wings at The Burrow

“It doesn’t feel like a copy-and-paste neighborhood—it feels like a person,” Ashley says. “It’s genuine. It’s fun. And it’s only getting better.”

Top: Signature smiley cookies at J’s bakery keep customers happy. Bottom: Get your daily dose of fruit— aged varietal or freshly juiced—at Curious Wine or Good Day, Darling.

BELMONT-DEVILLIERS: A Soulful Slice of Pensacola’s Blues Legacy

The intersection of Belmont and Devilliers streets once fueled the city’s blues scene.

Opened in 2010, Five Sisters Blues Cafe occupies the former site of Gussie’s Record Shop and WBOP Radio Station. Every dish on the menu pays homage to the recipes passed down by chef Cecil Johnson’s mother, Jeanette, and her four sisters— Cora, Sara, Dorothy, and Margaret. Right outside its door, visitors can find the Mississippi Blues Trail marker, installed in January 2018. The plaque underscores the significance of this corner in the wider context of American musical history.

Further in, you’ll discover thriving local businesses, including Pacific Kava Bar and Blue Dot Bar-B-Q The Gordon Community Art Center and Kukua Institute bring a fresh artistic energy to the area while honoring stories of the past. Upcoming spots like the Great Harvest Bread Company bake community into each loaf and pastry, while Devilliers Square and the Black Cafe & Bookstore offer a blend of belonging and creativity.

Top: Five Sisters Blues Cafe is housed in the building where the historic Gussie’s Record Shop and WBOP Radio Station once reigned. Bottom: The Gordon Community Art Center hosts an annual youth talent show.

EAST PENSACOLA HEIGHTS: A Neighborhood Steeped in Generational Connection

East Pensacola Heights’ tree-lined streets, scenic views, and tightly knit neighborhoods tell the story of families that span multiple generations.

Bianca and Gus Silivos moved their beloved Mediterranean bistro to the neighborhood in 1987.

“It’s really about community and connection, that’s why we named the restaurant Agapi, which means ‘ultimate love’ in Greek,” Bianca says. “When people come in, you know it’s them and they know it’s you. Over the years,

we’ve seen families grow. It’s not a place for one-time tourists; we are a part of people’s everyday lives.”

Local parks, right-of-way easements between homes, and a family-friendly atmosphere create an idyllic canvas for biking, walking, and spontaneous gettogethers. The neighborhood school, a staple since the 1930s, continues to shape young minds.

“We’ve got upscale restaurants that still feel warm and welcoming, Fannie Lou’s makes their own ice cream, and

we have a grocery store that’s been here since the 1940s,” Bianca says.

Longtime favorites like Jerry’s Drive In and Scenic 90 Café provide down-home comfort, while newcomer Craft Gourmet Bakery already has a loyal following.

“We’re right on the scenic highway, and it’s always such a peaceful drive,” Gus adds. “You get a beautiful water view across the street, and you’ll often see people just pulled over, enjoying nature. It’s those little moments that make this place so special.”

Top left: Agapi has been an East Pensacola Heights staple since opening in 1987. Bottom right: Craft Gourmet Bakery is new to the area with its recent second location. Top right: Bayview Park links Pensacola’s east side communities.

WEST GARDEN DISTRICT: Where Grit Meets Growth

Anchored by community staples like Joe Patti’s Seafood and the emerging urban waterfront greenspace of Bruce Beach Park, this area is defined less by formal boundaries and more by personality.

Located in a repurposed car wash just off Garden Street, Alla Prima is more than a cafe—it’s part roastery, part gallery, and part neighborhood hub. From Pearl & Horn’s tipsy oysters and caviar service to the playful charm of the Coastal Cat Cafe to the hyper-local tap list at Emerald Coast Brewery, the scene here exudes character.

Vintage charm and modern grit live side by side—on one block, you’ll find Unique Boutique, a treasure trove of quirky finds; on another, the minimalist calm of Fiore, an upscale floral and design studio. Just a few blocks away, the ever-evolving Ever’man Cooperative holds down the corner with organic groceries, juices, and a constant hum of foot traffic.

“You can walk it if you’re prepared to do a few blocks,” says Alla Prima owner Summer Sevi, who grew up around the corner. “Some places are spread out a bit, but you’ve got sidewalks the whole way, and enough cool stops to make it worth the stroll.”

Summer’s journey—from art teacher, painter, and a person who roasted coffee on a popcorn maker to a coffee entrepreneur set to open a new location—mirrors the district’s story: Grounded in the past but driven by vision. EC

Top: Pearl & Horn offers upscale coastal takes. Bottom: Fiore features a range of florals alongside an artsy boutique.

ofthe

NARRATIVE FIVE COURSE MEAL

DINNER, DISCOURSE, AND SPOKEN WORD BECOME CAUSE FOR CONNECTION AT EMERALD COAST

STORYTELLERS

DINING SERIES

STORY BY PAIGE AIGRET PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENN DEEB

There’s nothing like a good prompt or theme to get a writer in the spirit of storytelling.

It’s no wonder I was immediately drawn to the idea of dinner and a story.

Founders of Emerald Coast Storytellers, Kristy Holditch and Ali Diamond host monthly open mic nights that are enough to pull any lover of literature in. But their StoryPairing Dinner series offers a refreshing and immersive fine dining element.

“It’s a truly intimate and one-of-a-kind experience. In fact, it’s the first of its kind,” Diamond says. “Guests don’t just hear the story; they savor it. Each moment, flavor, and emotion intertwines in real time, allowing the audience’s personal experience to shape how they connect with the narrative.”

Holditch and Diamond breathe new life into the tradition of wine and course pairings. And locals and visitors otherwise unplugged from the Emerald Coast writing community find an approachable entry into an expressive outlet.

“I sometimes imagine standing on stage with a young Steven Tyler signing ‘Come Together,’ close and salty with his big fat lips in my face and on my neck.”

—Rae Cline reading from A Love Letter to Steven Tyler’s Lips

FIVE COURSES OF PAIRINGS

Thoughtfully prepared dishes complement curated varietal selections paired with creative works from community writers

“For me, some of the best storytelling has always happened around the dinner table—in the middle of the meal when everyone’s laughing and swapping stories, and later, when the plates are empty, but no one wants to get up because there’s this easy afterglow in the air. That’s the feeling we wanted to capture and elevate through these dinners.”

—Kristy Holditch, cofounder, Emerald Coast Storytellers

COURSE 1

Dish: Tater Tot

With M&P standing for “meat and potatoes,” Farrington makes a tribute to half of his namesake with his signature take on the classic tater tot. Made from Kennebec potatoes, which have an optimal starch and moisture content for frying, the tater tot provides a perfectly golden-crisp crunch on the outside with a smooth and soft inside. Topped with sous vide egg yolk and served with a shot glass of vichyssoise soup, which is a leek, potato, and onion soup served chilled.

Wine: Chenin Blanc, 2022

Lang & Reed Wine Company, Mendocino, California Medium- to full-bodied. Slightly honeyed with a varietal character of pear, peach, and bergamot notes.

Story: A Love Letter to Steven Tyler’s Lips by Rae

Cline

Rae Cline is the author of the short story collection, The Indefinite State of Imaginary Morals. Her debut novel is forthcoming in spring 2026. Cline shares a sultry, somewhat silly, and overall heartwarming glimpse at the reality of compromise in relationships.

“All of your senses are getting worked simultaneously to make this a memorable event,” says Solange Jazayeri, a local writer who attended the event and participated in Dave King’s pilot reading.

Suddenly, stories move beyond the audience of fellow writers and adjacent friends.

“Breaking bread has always been one of the simplest, most powerful ways to connect,” Holditch says. “Our dinners are often set around community tables or in intimate spaces where everyone naturally comes together—storytellers, chefs, and guests alike. There’s something about sharing a meal that softens people and opens the door for conversation and connection.”

The structure of story-pairing is simple: For every course, you get two stories—the story of the dish as told by the chef of the night and a reading of an original work by guest authors.

“The food becomes part of the rhythm of the evening,” Holditch says. “It’s the pause between stories that makes the stories themselves feel even richer.”

I was lucky enough to attend the most recent Story-Pairing Dinner in September. Holditch and Diamond, recently celebrating three years of Emerald Coast Storytellers, landed on the theme “Delusions of Grandeur.”

The September event was hosted at M&P by Farrington Foods in partnership with

“After 15 years as a product manager, Sarah decided to pivot into marketing. She approached this career change the way she approached every product launch, with an unshakable belief that human behavior was just another system to optimize.”

—Chris Gillan reading from Sarah’s Story

chef William Farrington. With each dish presentation, Farrington shared anecdotes and inspiration behind the flavors. Guests then got a chance to savor each course before being swept off into an original and immersive experience as authors approached the mic.

“I love the collaboration of really creative cuisine,” Jazayeri says. “The chef has done such a phenomenal job of bringing his own storytelling and his own creativity into the dishes that he’s pouring out. While you’re being feasted, your ears are also being feasted.”

There were five courses and five readings. I somehow landed amongst the story pairings and was matched with the third course—a fine dining take on classic country-fried chicken.

In contemplating the theme ahead of the event, I felt a moment of clarity as words began to swirl in my mind prompted by the “Delusions of Grandeur” theme. Feeling inspired, my words were driven to the page,

and I created an original poem for the event, titled Pipe Dreams.

That sense of surety in expression is so important. It is what Holditch and Diamond bring to the local writing community with Emerald Coast Storytellers. The StoryPairing Dinners are what give a platform to share that sense with others.

“I’ve always said that sharing your work as a writer can feel like pulling your own heart out of your chest and saying to the world, ‘Hope you like it!’ It’s raw, vulnerable, and yes, scary, especially in front of a room full of strangers. But when you do, something magical happens. It brings people together, sparks inspiration, and reminds everyone that they’re not alone.”

The series has given rise to a new audience and experience.

“The Story-Pairing Dinners have helped expand our community by attracting a new audience, one that appreciates fine dining

COURSE 2

Dish: Ricotta Gnudi

A larger, lighter, and fluffier cousin of gnocchi, gnudi are pillowy Italian dumplings made from ricotta cheese, eggs, and flour. Farrington served his gnudi, which he describes as “the filling of the pasta without the pasta dressing the filling,” in a parmesan and pancetta broth of housemade chicken stock, alongside a slice of focaccia sourdough made fresh for dinner service from Farrington’s in-house starter.

Wine: Sancerre, 2023

Vincent Grall, Silex, Loire Valley, France

Medium-bodied with a refined texture. Crisp and fresh on the palate. Bouquet of citrus fruit flavors like lime, grapefruit, and lemon. The flinty minerality adds a smokey stone character.

Story: Sarah’s Story by Chris Gillan

Entrepreneur and author of The Preppy Hippie’s Guide to Affirmations and the newly published book, Hacking the Job Search, Gillan shares a quirky and relatable take on a classic corporate example.

COURSE 3

Dish: Sous Vide and Seared Chicken Thigh

A tribute to his mother who “wasn’t the best cook but she could cook a couple things really well,” Farrington shared a classy take on the classic Southern-style country-fried chicken. After two hours of sous vide time, the Joyce Farms chicken thighs are skin-seared in a cast iron pan with wagyu beef fat. This Southern comfort dish is served on top of whipped potatoes and a tarragon chicken velouté, Farrington’s favorite French mother sauce, a sauce which he says may be the reason his wife married him.

Wine: Chardonnay, 2020

Peake Ranch, Santa Barbara County, California

Fresh notes of citrus blossom, white pineapple, crème brûlée, with delicate expressions of stone fruits and dried flowers.

Story: Pipe Dreams by Paige Aigret

I come from a background in creative writing. My education regularly placed me in literary salon settings, writing workshops, and poetry discussions. Stepping away from journalism from time to time, I still enjoy writing creatively. I wrote Pipe Dreams after being inspired by the September Story-Pairing Dinner’s theme, “Delusions of Grandeur.” The poem discusses the struggle to find financial freedom and rejecting class and wealth in an age of consumerism.

but also values creativity and culture,” Diamond says. “It’s a more intimate, elevated experience that blends culinary excellence with the arts, drawing in people who might not normally attend one of our regular storytelling events.”

The next Story-Pairing Dinner is planned following the 2026 new year and will be held at Raw & Juicy in Alys Beach, a local farmto-table, organic-focused restaurant. EC

PIPE DREAMS

by Paige Aigret

ME AND MY LOVE HAVE A PIPE DREAM. Sure, sometimes he wishes we’d win the lottery. But our lofty goals are far more mundane. What we truly want is financial stability. I know, it sounds insane. Who could possibly afford such a thing?

We want our mortgage paid off. We want irrigation in the yard. We want cars that run and fit more than just groceries in the trunk. Only then could we consider anything in the pipeline to be attainable in our lifetime.

But when we occasionally drift from reality to reverie, we start to dream of just a little bit more. The plot of land next door; a place to plant and sow, expand our garden and watch it grow. A second home; a cabin in the mountains where it snows. A van for camping by creeks and driving slowly from east to west, one corner of countryside to the next.

We want strong, healthy roots that support the weight of our day-today, that stretch beyond the reach of living payday to payday. That afford something more than the washed-up version of the American dream that’s become the norm.

But there’s cabinets that need replaced and an AC unit that desperately needs an upgrade. There’s stacks of bills and empty 401Ks. And all I can sit here and think is, “The first person to say ‘money can’t buy happiness’ must have been blessed with a level of privilege I’ve never lived in.”

Too often pipe dreams run down the drain, washed away with financial strain. But this life is not a means to an end. It’s what we make it, that we understand. So we laugh and hold hands, kiss our dog and spend time with friends.

“It’d be real nice to come into some money,” we jokingly say as we sway on porch swings at the end of the day.

For now, it’s the pipe dream, and that’s okay.

WHAT WILL YOU WRITE NEXT?

To stay up to date on upcoming open mic nights, Story-Pairing Dinners, and other events, follow Emerald Coast Storytellers on Instagram, @emeraldcoaststorytellers, and visit the website, emeraldcoaststorytellers.com.

Emerald Coast Storytellers

Founders Kristy Holditch and Ali Diamond

COURSE 4

Dish: Steak Mole

USDA prime filet imported from Iowa. Grass-fed, but more importantly, grass finished filet, a process that takes more time on the farm but creates a better product, according to Farrington. The steak was seared in beef fat. The mole sauce was a tribute to Farrington’s first-ever chef role, which he humbly claims to have been too green to get, at a Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles. The mole was made of dried chilis, coffee, and other ingredients. Topped with a lime crema, cotija cheese, and an apple and cabbage slaw.

Wine: Cabernet

Sauvignon, 2022

Eric Kent Wines, Sonoma County, California

Complex and smooth. Aromas and flavors of dark fruits like blackberry and black plum coupled with notes of blueberry, fig, and a hint of dark chocolate.

Story: The Pheonix and the Seamstress by Ali Diamond

Emerald Coast Storytellers co-founder

Ali Diamond is a writer, entrepreneur, journalist, and aspiring author working on publishing her debut novel in the horror genre. In The Phoenix and the Seamstress, Diamond discusses themes of triumph in the face of trauma and ways we can wield hope and confidence as a tool for healing.

“She was not made of feathers but of thread. Each stitch a small defiance, each seam a promise: ‘I will not unravel.’ ” —Ali Diamond reading from The Pheonix and the Seamstress

“Up in Harlem, you had Minton’s and Monroe’s—temples of sound and sweat. That’s where the gods rehearsed in public. But 52nd Street? That was the crucible. No rehearsal. No forgiveness. Just lights, liquor, and the mother------- who could cut through both.”—Voiceover from Lorraine, the lead character in Dave King’s Jazzmen pilot, as read by Solange Jazayeri at the Story-Pairing Dinner

COURSE 5

Butter Pecan & Praline Crisp

Farrington says his dad is “the person who taught me to eat, and eat well, and probably one of the main reasons I started cooking.”

Which is why Farrington shared his take on one of his dad’s favorite desserts, butter pecan pie, which included a butter pecan and praline crisp on a white velvet sponge cake with brown butter mousseline, candied pecans, pecan liqueur toffee sauce, and a classic butter pecan ice cream on the side.

Wine: Riesling,

2018

Dundee Hills, Mad Violets, Oregon

Harvested in October and crafted in the off-dry German Kabinett style. Fresh minerality paired with vibrant citrus, honey, and stone fruits, finished with sweet stone and floral notes.

Story: Jazzmen by Dave King

Local entrepreneur and creative Dave King of Sowal House has expanded his talents to writing with his original series screenplay work titled Jazzmen, which tells the story of a fearless jazz columnist and a rising trumpeter navigating the dark heart of 52nd Street in 1940s New York City. King shared a pilot episode reading at the September Story-Pairing Dinner with a little help from a cast of friends who tagged in to read parts as King narrated direction, scene, and setting.

ADDICTION MEDICINE

Deborah R. Simkin

Deborah R. Simkin, M.D., DFAACAP Miramar Beach 850-243-9788 functionalmedicinemdflorida.com

Mark G. Stavros Gulf Coast Addiction Medicine Panama City 850-522-1516 gcamed.com

T.R. Reeves

T.R. Reeves, MD, FACS, DFASAM Navarre 850-837-8005 trreevesmd.com

ADOLESCENT MEDICINE

Mohammed Abdul-Rahim Mohammed Abdul-Rahim, MD Panama City 850-872-0021 phppd.providence.org

Luis Gomez ABC Pediatrics Crestview 850-398-4024 abcpediatrics-crestview.com

Susanna Buchholz Coastal Pediatric Group Santa Rosa Beach 850-659-6556 coastalpediatricgroup.com

Quetheline Lanza Community Health Northwest Florida - 12th Avenue Pediatrics Pensacola 850-471-0508 healthcarewithinreach.org

John G. Chiles White-Wilson Medical Center, P.A. - Pediatrics Fort Walton Beach 850-863-8203 white-wilson.com

ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY

Randall F. Humphreys

Allergy Asthma SinusDr. Randall Humphreys, MD Panama City 850-785-2717 allervie.com

Justin Clark

All Seasons Allergy & Asthma Center - Justin Clark, D.O. Fort Walton Beach 850-862-3020 allseasonallergy.com

Michael E Neuland Allergy Partners of Emerald Coast Fort Walton Beach 850-863-1189 allergypartners.com

Geeta Khare Allergy Partners of Pensacola Pensacola 850-204-3212 allergypartners.com

ANESTHESIOLOGY

Robert Hannahan Hannahan Comprehensive Pain Care Panama City 334-417-0450 comprehensivepain.org

BREAST SURGERY

Tara R. Ennis North Florida Surgeons Fort Walton Beach 850-863-0400 nflsurgeons.com

Allison Marie Moody Ascension Sacred Heart Surgical Breast Oncology Bay Panama City 850-804-3100 healthcare.ascension.org

Jada Leahy

The Surgery Group, P.A. Pensacola 850-444-4777 thesurgerygroup.com

CARDIAC SURGERY

Eric L. Sandwith HCA Florida Heart and LungFort Walton Beach Fort Walton Beach 850-820-1012 hcafloridahealthcare.com

CARDIOLOGY

Thabet AlSheikh

Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute - AFIB Center at the Bear Health Center Pensacola 448-227-6500 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Brent Videau

Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute - Cardiology at the Bear Health Center Pensacola 448-227-6500 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Micheleanne “Annie” Celigoj

Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute - Interventional at the Bear Health Center Pensacola 448-227-6500 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Benjamin F. Lloyd

Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute at Gulf Breeze Gulf Breeze 448-227-6500 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Hani Razek

Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute at Gulf Breeze Gulf Breeze 448-227-6500 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Angel Morrobel Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center Fort Walton Beach 850-682-7212 okaloosaheart.com

Ajay Labroo

Gulf Coast Heart and Vascular LLC Panama City 850-215-6008 gchvfl.com

Martha J. Stewart

Martha J Stewart, MD Pensacola 850 -549-5491

Rodney Powell White-Wilson Medical Center, P.A. - Cardiology Fort Walton Beach 850-862-6934 white-wilson.com

COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY

F. Brooks Hodnette Jr. The Surgery Group, P.A. Pensacola 850-444-4777 thesurgerygroup.com

CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE AND PULMONARY DISEASE

Michael C. Ott

96th Medical GroupEglin Air Force Base Eglin Air Force Base 850-883-8333 eglin.tricare.mil

DERMATOLOGY

David C Adams

Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology Miramar Beach 850-654-3376 coastalskinsurgery.com

Layne M. Fielder

Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology Niceville 850-897-4900 coastalskinsurgery.com

Jessica Clark Beach Dermatology Skin Wellness Clinic Panama City Beach 850-238-8511 beachskinclinic.com

Holly Ward Holly Ward, MD Shalimar 850-651-3376

John H. Phillips III

Aqua Medical Spa Gulf Breeze 850-733-5180 aquamedicalspa.com

Charles Kovaleski Dermatology Associates Skin & Cancer Center Panama City 850-769-7546 769skin.com

Robert Siragusa Dermatology Associates Skin & Cancer Center Panama City 850-769-7546 769skin.com

EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT

Richard J. Barnett

Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, P.A. Destin 850-598-0099 bar nettfacialplastics.com

Quang Tran North Florida SurgeonsHead and Neck Associates of Bay County Panama City 850-769-0278 nflsurgeons.com

Mark Criswell 96th Medical GroupEglin Air Force Base Eglin Air Force Base 850-883-8333 eglin.tricare.mil

William Elsworth Gross Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart Pensacola 850-475-9025 healthcare.ascension.org

Ryan Gegg Emerald ENT Santa Rosa Beach 850-812-4174 emerald-ent.com

Jason Boole Northwest Florida Ear, Nose & Throat Fort Walton Beach 850-889-4550 nwfent.com

ENDOCRINOLOGY,

DIABETES, AND METABOLISM

Tareq Khairalla Baptist Medical GroupEndocrinology Pensacola 448-227-6850 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Eshraq N. Aljaghbeer Institute of Endocrinology Diabetes, Health & Hormones Destin 850-460-7090 iedhh.com

Youssef Hassan Institute of Endocrinology Diabetes, Health & Hormones Panama City 850-522-5490 iedhh.com

FAMILY MEDICINE

Richard Russo Baptist Urgent Care - Airport Pensacola 850-208-6130 ebaptisthealthcare.org

FOOT AND ANKLE SURGERY

Erik Nilssen North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists Pensacola 850-435-4800 northflboneandjoint.com

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Rafael A. Ching Companioni Digestive Diseases CenterMain Campus Panama City 850-763-5409 digestivediseasescenter.com

DR. YOUSSEF HASSAN md

Consultant Endocrinologist at the Institute of Endocrinology Panama City, Florida - 850 522 5490 • IEDHH.com

Dr. Youssef Hassan completed his specialization in Internal Medicine at Interfaith Medical Center in 2001, followed by a fellowship in endocrinology and metabolism at The University of Minnesota in 2004. He is American board certified in both internal medicine and endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism.

With nearly 25 years of experience in the field, Dr. Hassan has served as a consultant endocrinologist in the United States and the Gulf region, providing specialized care in diverse clinical settings and developing extensive expertise in managing complex endocrine and metabolic disorders.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Hassan has contributed to the medical community through multiple publications in peerreviewed journals.

Dr. Hassan is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidencebased care and is committed to helping patients achieve optimal health and well-being. He looks forward to meeting new patients and supporting them in managing both new and ongoing endocrine, diabetes, and metabolic concerns.

ESHRAQ AL-JAGHBEER md

Institute of Endocrinology Destin, Florida - 850 522 5490 • IEDHH.com

Dr. Eshraq Al-Jaghbeer is board certified in internal medicine and endocrinology, having finished training from Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago, Illinois in 2008. She earned her medical degree from the School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan in 2001.

Dr. Al-Jaghbeer joined the Institute in 2024, bringing 15 years of experience in managing a wide variety of complex diabetes and endocrine conditions in a high-volume, tertiary system in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She enjoys working with individuals and families who are either seeking better control of their long-term medical conditions or trying to find answers for their new symptoms. His approach relies on listening carefully to your concerns, assisting you in reaching a correct diagnosis and guiding you through the therapy plan.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution in health care, so Dr. Al-Jaghbeer strives to individualize care according to a patient’s needs and satisfaction. She has special interest in managing thyroid cancer, thyroid disorders, diabetes, insulin pump and sensor management, osteoporosis and parathyroid disorders, metabolic disorders, and weight management in addition to the wide variety of endocrine disorders in the adrenal and pituitary glands.

Maciej Tumiel

Panama City Gastroenterology Panama City 850-784-8007 maciejtumielmd.com

Carl G. Speer GastroHealth Gulf Breeze 850-477-2597 gastrohealth.com

Mark Riggenbach White-Wilson Medical Center, P.A. - Gastroenterology Fort Walton Beach 850-863-8260 white-wilson.com

GENERAL SURGERY

Richard O. Follwell

HCA Florida Gulf Coast Surgical Specialists Panama City 850-780-2987 hcafloridaphysicians.com

James Arthur Moody Dr. James A. Moody Destin 850-837-8831 healthcare.ascension.org

Norman A. Jones North Florida Surgeons Panama City 850-522-5022 nflsurgeons.com

Mauri Lunderman North Florida Surgeons Fort Walton Beach 850-863-0400 nflsurgeons.com

Larry T. Wong

Larry T. Wong, D.O., P.A. Panama City 850-215-1080 drlarrytwong.com

Eliyahu Hemo North Okaloosa Physician GroupGeneral and Bariatric Surgery Crestview 850-306-2188 northokaloosa physiciangroup.com

HAND SURGERY

Alexander Coleman

North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists Gulf Breeze 850-807-4200 northflboneandjoint.com

Steven Kronlage North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists Gulf Breeze 850-807-4200 northflboneandjoint.com

HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY

Christopher Haberman Florida Cancer Affiliates Panama City 850-763-0036 floridacancerpc.com

Mose Sim Hayes III

Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Care - Santa Rosa Beach Santa Rosa Beach 850-622-0873 healthcare.ascension.org

Thomas R. Johnson

Ascension Sacred Heart Medical Oncology Group Bay Panama City 850-804-7500 healthcare.ascension.org

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Benjamin Stermole 96th Medical GroupEglin Air Force Base Eglin Air Force Base 850-883-8333 eglin.tricare.mil

Jeffrey Lin Emerald Coast Infectious Diseases Fort Walton Beach 850-862-3979 nfectionclinic.com

Pardeep Kumari Gulf Coast Infectious Diseases Pensacola 850-549-4755 healthcare.ascension.org

INTERNAL MEDICINE

William Grant III Dr. William N. Grant Destin 850-533-0166

Stephen J. Zimmermann

Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart Primary CareBlue Water Niceville 850-897-3200 healthcare.ascension.org

Kenneth Blaine Tucker

Ascension Sacred Heart

Pensacola Primary Care

Watersound Origins Inlet Beach 850-278-3551 healthcare.ascension.org

MATERNAL AND FETAL MEDICINE

Jonathan Scott Stralka Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola - UF Health Women’s Care Center Pensacola 850-416-2400 healthcare.ascension.org

Henry Roque

Ascension Sacred Heart Regional Perinatal Center - Destin Miramar Beach 850-416-2477 healthcare.ascension.org

NEPHROLOGY

Humam Humeda Renalus Center for Kidney Care Pensacola 850-444-4700 ext. 1779 renalus.com

NEUROLOGY

Kamel Elzawahry

Brain & Spine Specialists Panama City 850-785-0029 brainandspinecenterllc.com

Fred E. Aubert Jr. White-Wilson Medical Center, P.A. - Neurology Clinic Fort Walton Beach 850-863-8169 white-wilson.com

NEUROSURGERY

William Dillen Baptist Health GroupNeurosurgery Pensacola 448-227-6320 ebaptisthealthcare.org

Carl Youssef Southern Orthopedic Spine Surgery Panama City 850-771-2001 carlyoussefmd.net

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY

Toni Pennington

Emerald Coast Obstetrics and Gynecology Panama City 850-769-0338 emeraldcoastobgyn.com

Gregory Morrow Panama City Surgery Center Panama City 850-785-0515 pcsurgery.org

Michael Barber Ageless Solutions Navarre 850-771-3544 agelessnavarre.com

Michael Hennessey

Diana Health - F ort Walton Beach Fort Walton Beach 850-243-2229 heydianahealth.com

Gregory Coates North Okaloosa Physician Group - Women’s Health Crestview 850-689-2229 northokaloosa physiciangroup.com

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Todd Robinson

Emerald Coast Eye Institute Fort Walton Beach 850-862-4001 emeraldeye.com

Anthony J. Leoncavallo Eye Center South Panama City 850-747-1818 eyecentersouth.net

Nathaniel Ruttig Eye MD of Niceville Niceville 850-608-0700 eyemdofniceville.com

Andrew E. Kortz

Andrew Kortz, M.D. Pensacola 850-438-6555 healthcare.ascension.org

David Mills

Ascend Vision PartnersMills Eye + Facial Surgery Pensacola 850-446-8402 ascendvision.com

Robert Harbour Center for Sight - Pace Pace 850-994-8400 centerforsight.org

G. Tipton McKnight Center for Sight - Pensacola Pensacola 850-476-9236 centerforsight.org

James R. Patrinely Plastic Eye Surgery Associates, PLLC Pensacola 850-473-0990 plasticeyesurgery.com

Sunil Gupta

Retina Specialty Institute Fort Walton Beach 850-476-6759 retinaspecialty.com

Kristine K. Pierce Retina Specialty Institute Pensacola 850-476-6759 retinaspecialty.com

Ryan Tarantola Retina Specialty Institute Pensacola 850-476-6759 retinaspecialty.com

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

Mark N. Awantang Orthopaedic AssociatesPanama City Panama City 850-785-4344 orthoassociates.net

Cory Gaiser Southern Orthopedic Spine Surgery Panama City 850-771-2001 southernorthopedic spinesurgery.com

Aaron Creek The Neck and Back Institute of Florida Miramar Beach 850-353-2719 neckandbackfl.com

Leo C. Chen

Emerald Coast Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics, PA Fort Walton Beach 850-864-3339 healthcare.ascension.org

ORTHOPAEDICS & SPORTS MEDICINE

Twelve Expert Subspecialty Providers

Ten highly-trained orthopaedic surgeons with subspecialties covering the upper extremities, shoulder, knee, hip, foot, ankle, and adult reconstruction, as well as two general sports medicine physicians.

Clinic O ces Across Northwest Florida

ree o ces at the Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in Gulf Breeze, three in Pensacola, and one in Fort Walton Beach, Milton and Navarre.

Convenient On-Site Services

On-site services cover a wide array of needs, from state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostics to occupational and physical therapy.

Accessible Appointment Options

Same-day, in-o ce visits for the continuum of orthopaedic and musculoskeletal care with telehealth options available for certain appointment types.

24/7 Urgent Care Hurt! Smartphone App

e Hurt! smartphone app connects patients with an expert care navigator in real time, 24/7, 365 days a year and is free of charge.

Dr. Alex Coleman Dr. Steven Kronlage Dr. Erik Nilssen

Dr. Roger Ostrander

Dr. Chris O’Grady

Dr. Josh Hackel

Dr. Ryan Riggs

DR. ELIZABETH SAGER md

Felicity Plastic Surgery

Destin, Florida - 850.865.2294 • felicityplasticsurgery.com

Upon retiring from her roles as Chief of Surgery and Surgical Quality Officer at Eglin Air Force Base, Dr. Elizabeth Sager knew she wanted to continue impacting lives the way she did for her past 30 years of service in the Air Force.

She immediately founded her private practice, Felicity Plastic Surgery, in Destin, an area Dr. Sager says is surprisingly underserved medically in terms of her specialty in the full spectrum of breast-focused plastic and reconstructive procedures.

Felicity Plastic Surgery’s personalized breast services include those from breast augmentations and breast lifts to breast reduction and implant removals. Popular now, Dr. Sager says, is a natural alternative to breast enhancement by way of fat transfer.

“In the military, I did a lot of complicated revision work,” Dr. Sager says. “People come in who have maybe had a bad outcome elsewhere or have had multiple procedures over the course of decades, so they find themselves in a more complicated situation.”

Thanks to the GLP-1 trend, Dr. Sager is also seeing many patients who have experienced massive weight loss and are seeking the removal of excess skin. She is well-versed in body contouring, offering liposuction and tummy tucks as well as more advanced multistage surgical procedures and fat-grafting solutions.

Dr. Sager is also equipped to serve male patients with gynecomastia (enlarged breasts), as she frequently treated airmen whose condition interfered with their ability to wear Kevlar and other demanding, life-saving gear in a battlefield environment.

“I think a lot of women—and even men—appreciate a female touch,” Dr. Sager says of the perks of having a female plastic surgeon. “Our relationship with our breasts is something that can be so personal and complicated. What I do is more than the technical skill of being a good surgeon, it’s also about understanding how these issues can affect your confidence, your relationships or how you see yourself in the mirror.”

Having been on the other side of the operating table herself after undergoing a breast reduction, Dr. Sager said she understands what her patients are going through, and she’s a better doctor for it.

“Felicity means ‘to bring great comfort or joy,’” she says. “Almost every patient who walks through our door just wants to feel like themselves again, and that’s all we’re trying to do.

Stephen T. Enguidanos

Twin Cities Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center Niceville 850-729-1444 hcafloridahealthcare.com

Chris O’Grady North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists Gulf Breeze 850-916-8787 northflboneandjoint.com

Roger Ostrander North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists Gulf Breeze 850-807-4200 northflboneandjoint.com

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY

Hasan Ebeid Hasan Ebeid, MD Panama City 850-785-0321 panamacitypediatrics.com

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Kelly Jean Seiler Nemours Children’s Health Pensacola 850-505-4700 nemours.org

PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY

Mohammed M. Zeinomar Clinic of Pediatrics & GI Medicine Panama City 850-913-1666 zeinomar.com

PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY

Mohammed Abdul-Rahim Mohammed Abdul-Rahim, MD Panama City 850-872-0021

Jeffrey Howard Schwartz Ascension Studer Family Children’s Hospital Pediatric Blood and Cancer Pensacola 850-416-1890 healthcare.ascension.org

PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY

Weldon Mauney

Child Neurology Center of NWF Gulf Breeze 850-932-5055 childneurologycenter.com

Ben Renfroe

Child Neurology Center of NWF Gulf Breeze 850-932-5055 childneurologycenter.com

PEDIATRIC PSYCHIATRY

Nelson Handal Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic Santa Rosa Beach 334-702-7222 dbmclinic.com

Nadra Chaudhary

Emerald Coast Behavioral Panama City 850-763-0017

PEDIATRIC UROLOGY

Mark A. Wehry

Ascension Studer Family Children’s Hospital Pediatric Surgery Pensacola 850-416-1525 healthcare.ascension.org

Jyoti J. Upadhyay

Studer Family Children’s Hospital Pediatric Surgery Pensacola 850-416-1525 healthcare.ascension.org

PEDIATRICS (GENERAL)

Kevin P Bryan HCA Fort WaltonDestin HospitalEmergency Department Fort Walton Beach 850-862-1111

Aimee P. Vafaie HCA Fort WaltonDestin HospitalEmergency Department Fort Walton Beach 850-862-1111

Lynn Keefe Lynn Keefe, MD Pediatrics Niceville 850-279-6260 lynnkeefemdpediatrics.com

PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION

James C. Presley Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports MedicineBaptist Medical Group Gulf Breeze 448-227-7200 andrewsinstitute.com

Huaiyu Tan Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports MedicineBaptist Medical Group Gulf Breeze 448-227-7200 andrewsinstitute.com

William Gray Neuro MicroSpineMark Giovanini, MD Pensacola 850-934-7545 neuromicrospine.com

Amira Noles Beachside Neurology Fort Walton Beach 313-600-5589

Michael McFadden Clearway Pain Solutions Pensacola 855-527-7246 clearwaypain.com

David LeMay Regenesis Performance Pensacola 850-471-8399 regenesisperformance.com

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Richard J. Barnett Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, P.A. Destin 850-598-0099 barnettfacialplastics.com

William C. Rigano Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology Miramar Beach 850-654-3376 coastalskinsurgery.com

Andrew McAllister

Coastal Plastic Surgery Institute Panama City Beach 850-233-7674 coastalskinsurgery.com

Steven J. Clark

Bluewater Plastic SurgerySteven J. Clark, MD, DMD, FACS Niceville 850-530-6064 bluewaterplasticsurgery.com

Elizabeth Peebles Sager Felicity Plastic Surgery Destin 850-865-2294 felicityplasticsurgery.com

William Scroggs Mid Florida Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Niceville 850-842-4563 healthcare.ascension.org

David Chandler

South Walton Plastic Surgery Santa Rosa Beach 850-387-2398 southwaltonplasticsurgery.com

William Burden

Destin Plastic Surgery Destin 850-820-6332 theplasticdoc.com

PODIATRY

T. Whitfield Roberts

Destin PodiatryCoastal Foot & Ankle Santa Rosa Beach 850-650-6492 coastalfootankle.com

Thomas Fusco Bay Foot & Ankle Center Crestview 850-855-4048 bayfootandankle.com

Paul Kalin

Dr. Paul Kalin Fort Walton Beach 850-863-1238 salonbuilder.com

PSYCHIATRY

Rajnikant B. Patel Rajnikant B. Patel M.D. Lynn Haven 850-747-0168

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

Hasan Murshed

Hope Regional Cancer Center Lynn Haven 850-481-1687 hoperegionalcancercenter.com

Warren R. Amos 21st Century Oncology Fort Walton Beach 850-863-5294 genesiscareus.com

James H. Stevens GenesisCareFort Walton Beach Fort Walton Beach 850-812-3797 genesiscareus.com

RHEUMATOLOGY

Anthony DeCotis Osteoporosis Center of the Gulf CoastAnthony DeCotis, MD Fort Walton Beach 850-243-8558 hcafloridahealthcare.com

Hal F. Martens Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart The Market Shops Rheumatology Miramar Beach 850-278-3460 healthcare.ascension.org

SPORTS MEDICINE

Joshua Hackel North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists Gulf Breeze 850-807-4200 northflboneandjoint.com

Ryan Riggs North Florida Bone and Joint Specialists Gulf Breeze 850-807-4200 northflboneandjoint.com

UROLOGY

David Aronoff HCA Florida Fort Walton Beach Urology Fort Walton Beach 850-820-1667 hcafloridaphysicians.com

Denis E. Healey

Advanced Urology InstitutePanama City Panama City 850-785-8557 advancedurologyinstitute.com

Brett L. Parra Woodlands Medical Specialists Pensacola 850-696-4000 woodlandsmed.com

VASCULAR SURGERY

Patrick M. Tamim

Patrick M. Tamim, M.D. Panama City 850-215-9654 pcvascular.com

WOUND CARE

Leonard Fichter US Wound Care & Hyperbaric Centers - NW Florida Panama City Beach 850-250-0112 us-woundcare.com

TOP DOCTORS. TOP TECHNOLOGY. TOP RESULTS.

Dermatology Specialists of Florida & Aqua Medical Spa

Healthy, confident skin starts with expert care, and that is exactly what patients find at Dermatology Specialists of Florida & Aqua Medical Spa. With 14 locations throughout the Florida Panhandle, the practice offers a full spectrum of dermatologic services, including medical and surgical care as well as non-surgical cosmetic treatments, all under one trusted name.

Each office is led by board-certified dermatologists and highly trained advanced practitioners who share a commitment to personalized comprehensive care. From diagnosing a complex rash to treating acne, eczema, and hair loss, to detecting and treating skin cancer with Mohs micrographic surgery or image-guided superficial radiation therapy (SRT), every service is delivered with compassion, precision, and expertise.

The practice’s Hair Transplant and Restoration Center offers state-of-the-art techniques for men and women, restoring both hair and confidence with natural-looking results. Patients seeking cosmetic enhancement or hair restoration benefit from individualized treatment plans tailored to their goals, combining experience, artistry, and advanced technology.

“Our goal has always been to make worldclass dermatologic care available close to home,” says Dr. Jon Ward, double boardcertified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. “Patients can receive advanced skin cancer treatment, hair restoration, and cosmetic services without ever leaving their community.”

This year, Dr. John H. Phillips III, who sees patients in the Gulf Breeze and Navarre offices, was voted Best Dermatologist by Emerald Coast Magazine readers. The recognition reflects his

clinical excellence and the practice’s ongoing commitment to patient-centered care.

In addition to medical dermatology, the practice’s Aqua Medical Spa locations offer customized aesthetic treatments such as injectables, laser services, and rejuvenating facials, all designed to help patients look and feel their best in a welcoming and comfortable setting.

From Gulf Breeze to Panama City and beyond, Dermatology Specialists of Florida & Aqua Medical Spa is proud to be the region’s trusted leader in skin health. The team helps patients of all ages protect, restore, and love the skin they are in. The practice continues to grow, with a new office opening in 2026 within the TMH/FSU Medical Complex near Margaritaville Watersound, expanding access to exceptional dermatologic care throughout the Panhandle.

From left to right: Kaisa van der Kooi, MD; Jon R. Ward, MD; Michael A. Stickler, MD; Haley Lewis, DO and John H. Phillips III, MD

Stubbs Orthodontics

To Dr. Casi Stubbs, being a mom is a top priority, so much so that motherhood influences how she manages her business and cares for her patients.

“I treat every patient how I would want my own children to be treated,” said Stubbs. “For those who are not children, I think about how I would want my mother, aunt or uncle to be treated, and I give them that same compassion, care and trust that is needed when visiting an orthodontist.”

Stubbs contributes her successful practice of 16 years to this. Knowing they will be listened to, treated with the utmost care and seen on time are all factors that lead patients into her office in the pursuit of improved smiles.

Since she was a child, Stubbs has long known the power of a smile and the positive impact one can have on others. As she continued through school and realized she had an inclination toward the sciences, orthodontics became a clear path.

Her schooling took her throughout the state — beginning at Florida State University for a degree in chemistry, continuing at the University of Florida for dentistry and finishing her residency in orthodontics at Nova Southeastern University. Yet, she always knew she wanted to open her own practice back home on the Emerald Coast.

“I grew up here and now treat kids and grandkids of people I’ve known my whole life, which is really special to be able to do,” said Stubbs. “With so many corporate practices in the area, I want to be able to provide friendly, familiar faces.”

She further cares for her community through monthly fundraisers that support local charities. Patients can purchase raffle tickets for prizes such as Playstations or paddleboards, and Stubbs matches those donations. Over $250,000 has been donated in the past 14 years.

This year, Stubb’s oldest daughter will graduate from high school while the other is entering it. Meanwhile, many of her patients are experiencing similar transformative life moments.

“On average, orthodontic treatments span two years, and during this time, I get to not only know my patients but witness them evolve and change,” said Stubbs. “It’s even more fulfilling to watch them notice the changes in their smiles and confidence.”

Dr. Casi Stubbs

Diana Health

oversees a compassionate crew dedicated to putting women at the helm of their healthcare experiences.

“I lost my dad when I was just 2 years old, so I grew up surrounded by my mother and four sisters,” Dr. Michael Hennessey shares. “From an early age, I was always helping and supporting them, which inspired my lifelong passion for helping women.”

Boasting over two decades of experience within his own private practice in the Fort Walton area, Hennessey, a board-certified OB/GYN, joined Diana Health in 2023, where he has continued to devote himself to delivering the highest standard of care to the women of his community.

At Diana Health, patients aren’t just seen, they’re heard.

Offering a full spectrum of female health services, Diana Health’s passionate team is comprised of experienced OB/GYNs, certified midwives and nurse practitioners, mental health therapists, dieticians, and wellness coaches who collaborate to treat the whole woman.

With multiple locations throughout Florida, Tennessee, and Texas, the staff at Diana Health Fort Walton Beach enforces the philosophy of the practice’s individualized approach to health care, going beyond physical treatment and understanding that women are constantly becoming and evolving, and that doesn’t come without its own vulnerabilities and challenges.

Diana Health believes that women’s health care has a long history of just addressing individual symptoms, and not the full spectrum of health, resulting in far too many patients feeling undervalued and overlooked.

It was founded with the mission of leaving that practice in the past by charging ahead with a collaborative approach that can treat everything from high-risk pregnancies requiring professional physician support to the woman looking for holistic support and life advice as she enters a new stage of being.

By working hand-in-hand with patients to establish a warm, welcoming environment where their deepest needs and concerns can be comfortably vocalized and received, it is their mission to empower patients to become the best version of themselves through a wellsupported, tailored wellness journey to meet their individual goals.

Diana Health Fort Walton Beach is proud to supply gynecology, menopause, maternity, mental health, and wellness services to women of all ages in collaboration with HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, where physician and medical director Dr. Michael Hennessey

He recalls a specific moment of his OB/GYN residency at the University of Florida College of Medicine that cemented this was what he was meant to do.

“In medical school, I delivered a baby at 2 a.m.,” he says. “My resident and attending weren’t there, so it was just me and this wonderful couple. Being with them at that moment, helping bring their baby into the world, was one of the most unique and profound experiences I have ever had in my life. I had never felt anything like it before, and from that night on, I was addicted.”

He is proud to work for a practice that goes beyond the patient and helps strengthen community ties. By providing educational resources and frequently hosting classes and events, they connect with local leaders, small businesses and citizens to support the health and quality of life within the region.

“I’m honored to be working with Diana Health, a fully integrated group of health-care providers offering complete approaches to the needs of women,” he says.

From left to right, Dr. Hunter Graham-Bieber, Dr. Michael Hennessey, & Julia Del Valle, CNM

Hands of Hope Medical Mission

For Dr. Steven Kronlage and Dr. Chris O’Grady, both orthopedic surgeons at North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, medicine has always meant more than time spent in the operating room. Over the years, their work has taken them far beyond clinic walls, where they’ve witnessed the lifechanging impact that specialized orthopedic surgical care can have in communities with limited access to medical resources.

Moved by these experiences, they answered the call in July 2022 by founding Hands of Hope Medical Mission, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing orthopedic surgical care to underserved populations both abroad and in the United States.

“Mission work is extremely fulfilling because we get to practice medicine in its purest form,

helping those who lack resources and access to the best of our abilities,” O’Grady says. “The generosity of others’ time and financial support helps us achieve great things.”

Through volunteer mission trips, Drs. Kronlage and O’Grady regularly travel to Ecuador with Bayside Medical Missions, performing life-changing surgeries for patients who would otherwise have little to no access to specialized care. They’re joined by teams of nurses and surgical technicians who also volunteer their time and expertise. Dr. Kronlage has also served with the Love for Peru Foundation in the Peruvian Highlands’ Sacred Valley and in the Sierra Madre Mountains of Mexico, providing care to the Tarahumara, one of North America’s largest Indigenous tribes.

The foundation’s impact is also evident here at home. In February 2023, Hands of Hope sponsored its first U.S.-based operation at the Andrews Institute Ambulatory Surgery Center for 2.5-year-old Nassir Andrew from Grenada. Born with brachial plexus palsy, Drs. Kronlage and O’Grady successfully performed Nassir’s surgery, restoring crucial nerve function that allowed him to raise his arm for the first time.

For Drs. Kronlage and O’Grady, the rewards go far beyond surgical outcomes. “There is no better purpose than to be of service to those in need,” Kronlage says.

Their commitment is simple yet profound. To use their skills to restore hope and mobility, one patient, one community, one mission trip at a time.

To learn more about the organization, visit handsofhopemedicalmission.org

From left to right, Dr. Chris O’Grady and Dr. Steven Kronlage

Freedom Dental

medical field. Dentistry harmoniously blended his interests in physics and artistry, working with his hands and interacting with people.

At Freedom Dental, the goal is to give each patient a reason to smile. From the first contact with the front desk staff, to the clinical care and consultations with the hygienists and Dr. Trae Pappas, the experience should be one of comfort, compassion and quality.

Early on, Dr. Pappas was fascinated by science and knew he wanted to enter the

He attended the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans, where he earned his doctorate in dental surgery. Upon graduating at the top of his class, he made his way back to the Emerald Coast, excited to provide care to the community that he considered home.

Freedom Dental excels in cosmetic dentistry, veneers, Invisalign, implant placement and restoration, sedation as well being able to fulfill all your general dentistry needs.

He and his staff, who have gone without a turnover for over five years, stay informed of the latest in treatment offerings while ensuring each

patient is fully comfortable with the mental, physical and financial impacts of treatment.

“I strive for supremely happy patients and a happy staff by treating each person with respect and integrity and making them comfortable,” said Dr. Pappas.

Dr. Pappas is passionate about helping his community through mentorship programs for aspiring dentists and providing free care days to patients in need. As the medical industry continues to become more corporate, he strives to never lose the connection he maintains with patients as a small practice.

“As the sole dentist, I get to know every patient and their dental needs,” said Dr. Pappas. “I enjoy talking to people and learning their stories, and it’s rewarding when I often get to impact their lives through my work.”

DR. TRAE PAPPAS

DECK HALLS

by PAIGE AIGRET

DEC 2025/JAN 2026

Sarah White is an ardent curator of holiday aesthetics. She is known to have a minimum of five Christmas trees throughout her home during the winter holiday season and has an ever-growing collection of ornaments and nutcrackers. Much of her holiday decor is traditional red and green with accents of holiday plaid. But there are a number of items that don’t match her theme exactly, as she loves to decorate in sentimental style.

“I always get a new ornament whenever we travel somewhere,” White says. “It is eclectic because I get them from all over the place.”

The White family—Sarah, husband Dan, and kids Hadley, age 9, and Harrison, age 11—took a trip to Washington, D.C. for spring break this year and then a family vacation in Costa Rica in the summer. She was sure to snag unique ornaments on each visit and added those to the main living room tree this year.

“And then I’ve also started doing needlepoint, so I’ve been needle pointing ornaments,” White says. “I’m excited to be able to add those to the tree this year.”

As the annual host home for her extended family’s celebrations, White is sure to deck the halls of her bayside Destin abode from floor to ceiling. But she’s careful to shop and decorate with intention and is fond of repurposing her capsule Christmas collection each year.

←↓ Sunsets with the family on the dock are a regular occasion at White’s home located on Choctawhatchee Bay in Destin. But a Christmas day sunset feels all the more special. White says she likes to take a beat between preparing dinner and sitting down at the table to enjoy drinks on the dock as the sun shines its final rays for the day. Per tradition, White prepares her Winter White Cosmos for the adults while the kids enjoy hot chocolate or mocktails. Other White family traditions include the hanging of sentimental souvenir ornaments sourced on trips throughout the year.

Family vacations to Washington, D.C. and Costa Rica produced some unique 2025 Christmas ornament finds.

“I just love having all my family together. I love hosting and having everyone over. You know, the food is great, but more so to me, it’s about the company and the tradition and being with the ones that you love .” —Sarah White, Destin local business owner, wife, and mother of two

“I don’t think you need to start over every year; I think there’s something really nice about having ornaments and decorations that you’ve had forever,” White says. “Of course, I like shopping and I like to get new things, but I still think it’s nice to have some nostalgic things that mean something and that you’re not starting over every year.”

When she does hit shops for holiday finds, she admits that HomeGoods is

her go-to stop; however, most of her new purchases come from small businesses, Christmas-themed markets and displays, and travels throughout the year.

“I love, in Pensacola, Celebrations florist and gift shop. They have amazing decorations,” White says. “It’s just so inspirational and amazing. I always find great things there.”

She also enjoys stopping in at Cottonwood Company home and gift shop in Niceville.

ON THE MENU AT THE WHITE HOUSE

Christmas Breakfast

Sarah White likes to keep breakfast casual on Christmas morning, leaving the focus on family gathering around the excitement of Santa’s visit.

“I usually make sausage balls, hashbrown casserole, and then sometimes I’ll make an egg casserole or sometimes my husband will do scrambled eggs on the grill,” she says. “And then, we eat breakfast while we’re opening presents.”

Christmas Dinner

Christmas dinner for the Whites can be any number of dishes from year to year. They’ve done beef tenderloin, prime rib, and steaks. Sides always include mac and cheese (the kids’ favorite) some form of potatoes (twice baked, roasted, or mashed) and another vegetable like Brussels sprouts.

“For Christmas dinner, it’s something special that you don’t have on a regular basis,” White says. Christmas dinner offers a little more creative freedom in menu planning. “That menu doesn’t always stay the same,” White says.

“But one thing that does stay the same is that my mom always helps me cook. And my mom’s a great cook, and her mother was a great cook. And so my mom always spends a lot of time in the kitchen with me.”

And on her annual fall girls’ trip to Blue Ridge, Georgia, she often stumbles upon unique holiday-themed finds.

Beyond the tree, White says it’s important to complement the decor scheme of your home as it exists year-round.

“Just don’t stray too far from what is already around your house, so you’re not fighting against that,” White says.

Complementing decor is what inspired this year’s dining room table theme—

↖ White has a clear vision for decorating. But she always lets husband Dan and kids Harrison and Hadley lend a helping hand.

→ Tasking yourself with an elaborate meal plan requires a lot of prep work and day-of efforts. Often, we can get lost in the desire to please and impress our guests. Sarah White suggests that simplifying your holiday meal to something elevated but not demanding can help bring the day down to earth and remind us that Christmas should be about connection. ↓ “The dining room table, that is something that I change up every year,” she says. “And, it’s just something fun that I get to work on every year.”

chinoiserie—a style White has been leaning into recently with a collection of the white ceramics with blue design details accenting spaces in the kitchen, dining, and living areas.

The chinoiserie display will repurpose some of those blue and white elements she used for a “something blue” themed bridal shower she hosted for her sister-in-law earlier this year.

Her nutcracker collection will make a dinner appearance as well, standing tall alongside taper candlesticks. And as she does for any occasion, she’ll fill remaining open tablespace with magnolia leaves and

florals in matching chinoiserie vases and ginger jars.

Beyond her tablescape, White will prep her dinner setup ahead of time with everything laid out and ready, from her white Wedgwood fine china set and Spode Christmas tree salad plates down to serving spoons and dishes.

“I will always set the table ahead of time; I’m never going to set the table the day of the event,” White says. “I will even get out my serving pieces, and actually, this is something my grandmother used to do, put sticky notes on them, like ‘this is for the potatoes, this is for the peas.’”

Sarah White’s copycat of the Bonefish Grill Winter White Cosmo is the ideal mix for a Christmas cocktail hour. Per the White family tradition, drinks are shaken and garnished just before sunset and enjoyed on the family’s dock overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay.

➸ 2 oz. white cranberry juice

➸ 1½ oz. vodka

➸ 1 oz. orange liqueur (Grand Marnier)

➸ ½ oz. Elderflower Liqueur (Saint Germain)

➸ Splash of lime juice

➸ Frozen cranberries for garnish

TRADITIONS

➸ Matching PJs for Christmas Eve

➸ Watching Christmas Vacation with hot cocoa in hand

➸ One early present per kid on Christmas Eve

➸ Stockings from Santa at the kids’ bedroom doors

➸ Sausage balls for Christmas morning breakfast

➸ Present opening in PJs with the whole family

➸ Gingerbread house making on Christmas day

➸ Pre-dinner cocktails on the dock

WINTER WHITE COSMO

WHITE CHRISTMAS

White, local business owner of Beespoke Consulting, has her hands full around the holidays. She enjoys taking time for small details that make Christmas Day special but says what’s more important is to prioritize family.

This trick helps alleviate day-of pressures and allows for family and friends to chip in without direction from the host needed.

Once guests arrive, White advises, be flexible, and deal with the messes later.

“I really try hard to be present with my guests,” she says. “Maybe everything didn’t come off as perfectly as I had envisioned it, or maybe somebody spilled something, or whatever. I just roll with it because you’re supposed to be enjoying this party, too. And if you’re just running around trying to clean up and help everyone and please everyone, then your guests aren’t enjoying you, and they’re there to enjoy you just as much as they are the decorations and food and all of that.”

As a busy working mother, White, who co-owns local marketing agency Beespoke Consulting, has learned to grant herself and others grace during the holiday season.

“I think, as women especially, we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to do all these things and be so perfect,” she says. “But, really, if you’re present with your family and making the most of the memories and the times that you do have, that’s what’s most important.”

Be present and be merry. EC

↑ Kids Harrison and Hadley appreciate traditions like getting to open one present early on Christmas Eve and the magical arrival of stockings from Santa at their bedroom doors on Christmas morning.

↑

KITCHEN SMARTS

Rethink your culinary routines with these five innovative appliances

by LIZA GRANT SMITH

IN THE MIX

There’s no need to hire a sous chef for your cooking endeavors thanks to the Thermomix TM6 ($1,649). This all-in-one multicooker offers 28 functions (including chop, blend, steam, knead, sauté, grind, whisk, sous vide, and slow cook) as well as access to more than 80,000 guided recipes on the integrated Cookidoo app. The revolutionary product is for everyone from professional chefs to home cooks looking to up their game. (thermomix.com)

WASTE AWAY

A new take on kitchen cleanup and a much less odorous alternative to traditional composting methods, the Mill Food Recycler ($999) converts food scraps (everything from turkey bones to avocado pits) to nutrient-rich grounds. Use the grounds in your garden, or send them back to the company to be turned into chicken food and distributed to farms. The Mill runs automatically with intelligent cycles based on what you put in it. Instead of needing to be emptied daily, it can run for around a month thanks to its large capacity. This powerhouse can transform 1.4 pounds of food scraps into dry, shelf-stable grounds in just 2.5 hours with an operating sound similar to the quietest air filter. The hands-free design allows you to easily open it by pushing a pedal, while the activated charcoal filters effectively eliminate odors. Sit back and let the Mill do its thing, or get on the app to see what’s happening inside your bin and create a custom schedule. (mill.com)

TOAST OF THE TOWN

The genius of toasters, Revolution Cooking’s R180 Connect Plus Smart ($400) boasts a 7-inch full-color LCD touchscreen, enabling users to select from 40 toasting options and seven brownness levels. A patented heating system sears the bread without drying it, so it becomes crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside. And lest you think this device only toasts, it also connects to Wi-Fi to auto-detect time and date and display it along with the daily local weather forecast. You can even upload 24 photos that the toaster will cycle through on its screen when not in use. (revcook.com)

The team at Spinn Coffee set out to “reimagine coffee for the connected age and the discerning coffee lover.” The result is a coffee maker that features a multi-patented centrifugal brewing technology that can brew whole beans to precisely how the growers and roasters envisioned. Now in its second generation, the Spinn2 ($999) is Wi-Fi connected, so it can learn, track, and communicate with users. You can also save your customized preferences to make your perfect cup of coffee, espresso, or cold brew whenever you are craving it. (spinn.com)

No more guessing when meat is done. Simply insert the Meater Pro smart thermometer ($130) in any meat, then set up to cook, and the app will display the progress with colorful clarity on your phone or other device. Feel free to chat up your dinner guests or catch up on your favorite podcast while you wait. The app will alert you when your food is ready. (meater.com)

SATURDAY, DEC. 13 | 7:30 PM

DESTIN-FWB CONVENTION CENTER

THURSDAY, JAN. 8 | 7:30 PM

DESTIN-FWB CONVENTION CENTER

SUNDAY, DEC. 7 | 10:30 AM HOTEL EFFIE SANDESTIN BROADWAY HOLIDAY THE “CALLA-WAY”

This festive concert features full orchestra, vocalists and everything from timeless favorites like Winter Wonderland to chart-topping hits such as Mariah Carey's All I Want for Christmas is You, along with beloved holiday songs from Broadway and film like It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

Get ready to celebrate the unstoppable Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll in Simply the Best: The Music of Tina Turner. Sinfonia Gulf Coast pays tribute to Tina’s electrifying career with powerhouse vocalists delivering her greatest hits live.

Enjoy a sparkling Sunday brunch concert with Broadway sisters Ann Hampton Callaway and Liz Callaway as they bring their acclaimed show to Destin. This celebrated cabaret performance blends their extraordinary voices. From Broadway classics to pop standards.

ANCHORED IN ART

Placemaking projects with local artists breathe life into public spaces by

CARRIE HONAKER → ART

↖ Artist Wes Hinds brings his signature pop-art style to a Freeport public art Anchor, sponsored by Nelkin Real Estate.

Freeport’s streets burst with color and history in the form of massive painted concrete anchors— each landmark telling a story. The Anchored in Freeport project transforms the city’s maritime symbol into a permanent public art installation. For a town shaped by timber shipping and quiet bay waters, the anchor feels like both memory and metaphor.

“The anchor is the symbol of our town,” says Tracy Louthain, chair of the Anchored in Freeport Committee. “It’s on our city logo. The early settlers built their lives around this port. The anchor connects our community through art, culture, and beauty.”

Each 4½-foot sculpture was handed to a local artist. Juan Francisco Adaro, known for his whimsical work depicting life on the coast, painted his anchor with scenes from his backyard—an alligator slicing through the bayou, pelicans in mid-flight across the bay.

“I love living here where it’s small, easy to move around, and the people are friendly,” Adaro says. “This piece is for Freeport. It’s my home.”

Other anchors tie up in parks, along walking paths, and near community hubs. A QR code on each links to stories, bios, and an audio tour narrated by the artists themselves and curated by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.

“I moved to Freeport in 2008 and always thought the city had so much potential,” Louthain says. “This creative placemaking project not only brings pride to our fast-growing town. It unites us as a community through art produced here locally by people who live here.”

In Okaloosa County, a flock of 5-foot painted herons transforms sidewalks and public spaces. Known as The Heron Project, this initiative places towering birds in front of libraries, municipal buildings, and downtown squares. The

herons, each uniquely styled by a local artist, honor the region’s wetlands. Some shimmer in metallic blues; others wear coats of vibrant flowers or abstract patterns. And each has a plaque with a QR code linking to the Okaloosa Public Arts web page where viewers can learn about the artists and get a map to all the herons.

Even practical tools are art in Okaloosa and Walton counties, thanks to a fishing line recycling program launched by the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance. Along the waterfront, bins designed to collect discarded fishing line now double as

↗↘

Top: Artist Katherine Boggs, sponsored by DR Horton. Bottom: Artist Juan Francisco Adaro, Sponsored by Walton County Tourism.

Located at the Pensacola Museum of History, Artist Dave Kessler’s public art pelican, “In tribute to our First Nations,” honors the area’s native peoples.

canvases. Cormorants, mermaids, and sea turtles twist across their surfaces, hand-painted by local artists like Joan Vienot. What could have blended into the background now catches attention while quietly serving the bay.

In Panama City Beach, the SeeLife sculpture series introduces turtles, dolphins, and seahorses to sidewalks, boardwalks, parks, and storefronts. Brought to life by local artists, each fiberglass creature celebrates marine life and local identity. Some are wrapped in colorful mosaics; others burst with underwater scenes or pop-art flair.

Even utility boxes have become part of the artistic landscape in downtown Panama City. Wrapped in vinyl prints of local paintings, these everyday objects now feature ospreys in flight, blue herons wading through marsh grass, and coastal sunrises in hues of coral and gold.

Finally, in Pensacola, a parade of pelicans claims the streets. The Pelicans in Paradise path includes dozens of statues—some adorned with historical flags

In Pensacola, a series of pelicans create a path for exploration. Follow and find all of the Pelicans in Paradise with the interactive online passport at VisitPensacola.com/passports/pelican-passport.

or Navy garb, others as a tribute to indigenous peoples, mermaids, and even a Dolly Parton-inspired Dolly Pelican. Locals and tourists follow the trail using an interactive online Pelican Passport, snapping photos along the way.

Across the Emerald Coast, public art is more than ornament. It’s a way to connect place, people, and purpose. From the bright anchors of Freeport to the seaside creatures of Panama City Beach, these installations turn the everyday into the extraordinary and honor the rich history of our small towns along the Emerald Coast. EC

← Left: Fishing line bin painted by Maxine Orange, located at a Walton County Beach Access. Right: Project coordinator Alison McDowell holds bins painted by Sammie Eunice, Skye Bailey, and Maxine Orange.

The

that community engagement is instrumental to staying in business. “It is the reality that just buying books is not enough,” she says. “But if people come to do something else, then maybe they’ll buy some books or buy other things.”

It kind of all happened at the same time.”

Mickey Harbeson, Pappas’ mother, first opened The Book Rack in Destin in 1981, moving locations to Fort Walton Beach in 1985, with business partner Helen Wise, a schoolteacher at the time with limited hours to commit to the shop. The Book Rack became a passion and focus for Harbeson.

When she passed in 2008 and Wise approached retirement, Pappas was faced with whether to return to her own industry or carry the torch for her mother. Pappas chose the latter.

“Before I knew it, it’s like 20 years later,” she says.

Amidst growing economic challenges and threats of recession, keeping business bumping has been tough, Pappas admits.

“I mean, it’s tough for any small business, you know, for bookstores as well.”

Pappas recalls bustling winter seasons when the snowbirds would descend upon their winter condos and file into The Book Rack for their off-season vacation reads. But she says that since the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill of 2010, things have changed.

FOR THE LOVE OF LITERATURE

With a passion for people and an advocate’s spirit, Melli Pappas keeps The Book Rack alive

by PAIGE AIGRET

Melli Pappas is a passionate advocate for literary accessibility.

A proud mother, grandmother, and owner of The Book Rack in Fort Walton Beach, she’s always loved to read for herself and with her kids.

“Both my parents were huge readers,” Pappas says. “I mean, we just had walls of bookshelves.”

But she wasn’t always on the path to becoming the bookish matriarch that friends, family, and patrons know her to be today. Pappas worked for 20 years as a public health nurse.

“And then both my parents got sick at the same time,” she says. “My mom had Alzheimer’s. So, when my dad died in 2006, I started coming to work with her.

“When that oil spill happened, people were afraid to come back,” she says. “So, they went somewhere else that next year, and then they never came back. That was really the start of a turning point. Then Kindles came along, and eBooks came along.”

And the 2020 pandemic didn’t help matters either. But Pappas and her small team have become resourceful, hosting events and becoming active on social media. Pappas doesn’t identify as tech or internet savvy, but it was a move she knew she had to make to keep business up.

But it all comes back to her love for books and people—a trait most certainly inherited from her mother Harbeson, who they used to jokingly refer to as Dear Abby. Pappas is known to share life advice and chit chat, too, with regulars that date back farther than her tenure.

“Those are the people that you just love,” she says. “I have this couple from

↙

Book Rack owner Melli Pappas says

Niceville, and she bakes cookies and brings me cookies every time she comes in.”

Pappas personality and The Book Rack’s familiarity keep friendly faces returning.

“I want people to read more,” Pappas says. “And I would like for people to read more physical books. I personally, and not just because I have a bookstore, I just think having the written word on paper is important.”

But Pappas recognizes that book prices are ever increasing. She hopes to make

← The original franchise of The Book Rack brand was built on a few staple ingredients: halfpriced used books, store credit for trade-ins, and orange shelves. The franchise has since dissolved, but Pappas has kept the structure— orange shelves included.

“I do fully support parents deciding what their kids read, just like I support my right as an individual to read what I want to read and not read what I don’t want to read. But that’s every parent’s choice.” —Melli Pappas, The Book Rack Owner

physical books more accessible in terms of cost and other barriers like book bans in public school systems.

“Books are for everybody,” Pappas says. “There are books in here that I would never want to read. Maybe I don’t like the content or it’s not my genre or if I had a young child, I would be like, ‘You’re too young to read that’—but it should be available. I just feel like booksellers and libraries should be the leaders of the voice.”

Pappas says kids are a captive audience when given the opportunity.

“Some kids might not ever be able to go to the library because they don’t live near the library or their parents work on the weekends or for any number of reasons,” she says. “So, the school library is their only resource.”

For Banned Books Week in October, The Book Rack signed up for a program through Libro that encouraged stores to host readins and offered a free audiobook copy of the 2024 novel, Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by banned books advocate and author Kristen Miller. The Book Rack hosted its read-in event on Sunday, October 5 and offered special deals on banned book titles and merchandise throughout the week.

Outside of special occasions, the shop hosts regular events both during and after

hours like book signings and the ever-popular Books, Boards & Bubbles nights.

“People want some way to socialize that you don’t have to drive to Destin to do, that you can do in Fort Walton, and that you can relax and not have to go sit at a crowded bar or a noisy bar or in a restaurant where you feel like you only have so much time,” she says.

The Book Rack has also hosted a silent book club, a poetry open mic night, and a scavenger hunt fundraiser for the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) on Independent Bookstore Day, among other events. Pappas wants to try out some bookish craft nights and partner with more charitable organizations for fundraiser events. And her daughter-in-law, Erica Wilson Pappas, plans to host and instruct an in-shop yoga night.

To the community, Pappas says, “Come on in.” EC

BOOKED & BUSY

After a busy October and November full of book signings, Books, Boards & Bubbles, Banned Books Week events, and a Boozy Book Fair with United Way, Pappas says they’re working on creating a calendar for future busy seasons.

Big Dreams, Bright Lights

Celebrating creativity, community, and the power of live theater

Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) was founded on the recognition and a dream of serving our community through educational theater. From there, professional theater programming launched, and now ECTC is celebrating its thirteenth season!

Every show this season is full of dreams and dreamers. In December, the musical Annie hits the stage. Annie is an orphan who dreams of finding her family and finds something precious along the way. In Murder on the Orient Express, the play unfolds like a dream, with Poirot making sense of the chaos. Forever Plaid takes place in a dream state, with imaginings of what could be. And in Mystic Pizza, three young ladies who have just begun their lives dream of what the future could hold.

From onstage to offstage, there are a million dreams around here—and not just those that Nathanael and Anna have as co-founders for the organization, but also Trenton’s dream to provide for his family while producing theater, Emily’s dream to choreograph shows, and Beca’s dream to create sets that take audiences to other worlds from the stage.

Even more dreams exist at ECTC— dreams that are cultivated through education classes and then bloom in the

futures of students. Marci and Gary share with pride that their daughter, Alison who was an ECTC student for many years, is experiencing success with law school at Florida State University, thanks to her involvement at ECTC. Her professors and classmates are impressed with her ability to think quickly, improvise dialogue, and play various characters for mock trials. As a sophomore, she has been nominated to serve on the steering committee of the Trial Law Club, an honor usually reserved for upperclassmen. Richard Olivarez, chief marketing officer of Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals, raves about working with ECTC alum Clara. He highlighted her poise, professionalism, and ability to improvise quickly as a spokesmodel for their video

marketing project. Tate, another ECTC alum is headed to college to study sports broadcasting and credits his time at ECTC with helping him prepare for his chosen career path.

Dreams are coming true every day at ECTC. It can be seen when the theater’s 5-year-olds sing in full voice, “It’s possible, anything’s possible,” from Seussical the Musical or when second through fifth graders use full-bodied physical storytelling to the amazement of their friends and families. Dreams come true every Saturday as 80 middle and high schoolers descend on the ECTC building to find a unique community where they always belong.

All of these dreams are coming true every day at ECTC—from kids to the whole expanse of our community—and you are a part of that. Thank you for joining us for season thirteen! Here’s to your dreams coming true too—because the heart of ECTC is you.

Painting The Town Red

The Agency Northwest Florida Beaches, a boutique luxury real estate brokerage, officially stepped into a glamorous new era September 25 with an exclusive launch party at Hotel Effie, where guests celebrated its debut with a night of collaboration and culture.

Founded in Beverly Hills, California by entrepreneur Mauricio Umansky in 2011, The Agency is an international real estate brokerage with over 145 offices across 14 countries. Spearheaded by Managing Partner Sara Becnel and Managing Director Glenn Stegemann, The Agency Northwest Florida Beaches rebranded Sandestin Real Estate in January. Then, in June, the brokerage secured a territory expansion across Northwest Florida, extending from Perdido Key to Inlet Beach.

“This is a boutique brand with a global reach,” Melissa Watson, executive director of marketing for Sandestin Investment, says. “That may sound like a contradiction,

but The Agency has redefined what luxury service means in real estate through its collaborative philosophy, and that culture is something we want to grow as we expand our offices, and something we wanted to really showcase at the launch party.”

For that reason, Watson was inspired to incorporate the mission of The Agency Art House, an initiative within the company that aspires to foster relationships with local artists and creative advisors to further elevate listings.

Invite-only guests, who were encouraged to arrive dressed to the nines in the signature shades of the organization’s bold red, black, and white brand, were treated to the unveiling of Miramar Beach-based resin artist Brendan Parker’s latest creation. Using a donated BOTE paddleboard as a base, Parker utilized The Agency’s color scheme to customize it into a stunning symbol of their devotion to marrying luxury services with community talent.

The soiree also collaborated with the Bal Harbour Shops, where pop-up racks of high-end, designer pieces revealed the premium Miami shopping mall’s fall fashion collection.

Watson says they succeeded in creating an elegant arrival experience that was on-brand with beautiful red florals and artsy aesthetics, while guests sipped cocktails and noshed on offerings by the Sandestin Catering and Events team.

“Then, the party kicked into a higher gear when Shoebox Moses, a talented DJ flown in from Los Angeles, began playing, and it became a total vibe,” Watson says. The lights dimmed and bathed the dance floor in neon ambience as special performances by sensual shadowbox dancers, human disco balls, and artists on stilts wove their way through the crowd.

“I don’t think people were expecting it, but that’s The Agency: a little sexy, a little edgy, but a suitable new model for Northwest Florida,” Watson says.

In attendance was founder and CEO Mauricio Umansky, whom people may also know as a TV personality from his Netflix series Buying Beverly Hills. “Mauricio has always said he doesn’t choose locations; he chooses people,” Watson says. “He’s incredibly tuned-in, and when something important is happening at one of his brokerages, he shows up. He made it a top priority to be here.”

The prestigious evening was made possible by presenting sponsor SouthState Bank, along with the generous support of Dixielectricar, Russell Landscape, and The Henry Haus, who Watson said helped achieve their goal of making a bold introduction and spreading awareness of The Agency’s ethos.

A major part of that, Watson says, is The Agency’s 10-rule philosophy.

“The first rule, pardon my French, is no A-holes,” she laughs. “The second is to have fun. As we grow into new markets, we’re looking for like-minded people who want to be a part of something different, have fun with us, and know it’s all about building lasting community relationships.”

calendar

Holiday Concert & Visits with Santa

On Wednesdays throughout December, enjoy a holiday edition of Baytowne Wharf’s Wednesday Night Concert Series. Come find the holiday spirit as you visit with Santa, and tap your feet to winter sing-along classics. For more information, visit baytownewharf.com.

MERRY MAIN STREET & MISTLETOE MARKET

DEC. 1-20

DeFuniak Springs will host its annual Merry Main Street celebration, including live music and performances, Festive Food Truck Fridays, a parade, visits with Santa, and a weekly Mistletoe Market on Saturdays featuring gifts, treats, and holiday finds. mainstreetdfs.org

A CHOCOLATE COVERED CHRISTMAS CAROL

DEC. 6

Enjoy this heartwarming, hilarious, and soulful twist on the beloved classic, A Christmas Carol. Set to the rhythm of gospel, R&B, and holiday joy, this spectacular show will have you laughing, singing, and rediscovering the true magic of Christmas. pensacolasaenger.com

LANTERN PARADE

DEC. 6

A creative vision from the parade arts group Chantelle Rytter & Krewe of the Grateful Gluttons, The Village of Baytowne Wharf will transform into a sea of lanterns. Enjoy daytime festivities with a lantern workshop, then

join in the lantern parade in the evening. baytownewharf.com

EDEN GARDENS CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT OPEN HOUSE & LUMINARIES

DEC. 6

Over 2,000 luminaries will be lit and placed along the paths of the Eden Gardens State Park. The historic Wesley House will be open to the public to experience the decked halls and lit trees throughout. The Friends of Eden will provide live music, cookies, and hot beverages. friendsofedengardens.com

PANAMA CITY BEACH MARATHON

DEC. 6

Run along award-winning beaches in the marathon, half-marathon, 5K, or kids fun run. This Panama City Beach event attracts thousands of residents and visitors each year. pcbmarathon.com

GRINCHMAS

DEC. 12 & 19

During this holiday season, put a little snark in your holiday spirit and have some fun with The Mean One. At Baytowne Wharf

For more events in the EC, visit EmeraldCoastMagazine.com and 850tix.com. compiled by PAIGE AIGRET and COURTNEY BRYANT DEC 2025/JAN 2026

at Sandestin, meet the maven of mischief himself for a photo opportunity, then enjoy a movie showing of The Grinch baytownewharf.com

TOYS FOR KIDS FOUNDATION

CHRISTMAS BALL

DEC. 13

The annual Toys for Kids Foundation Charity Christmas Ball, presented by Ramey Law Offices, is the black-tie event of the holiday season in Bay County. The foundation provides toys to deserving children during the holiday season. toysforkidsbay.org

A DRAG QUEEN CHRISTMAS

DEC. 23

Get ready for your favorite queens to perform live on stage, including Lexi, Bosco, Shea Coulee, Jewels Sparkles, Crystal Methyd, Suzie Toot, Brooke Lynn Hytes, and Lydia B. Kollins. Fans can expect a fabulous remix of classic Christmas hits, dazzling themed variety performances, and interactive moments to share your Christmas cheer for the most magical time of the year. pensacolasaenger.com

DEC. 13

HOLIDAY POPS SPECTACULAR

→ Celebrate the season with Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s Holiday Pops Spectacular. This festive concert features the full orchestra, vocalists, and everything from timeless favorites like “Winter Wonderland” to chart-topping hits such as “Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home),” radio hits like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You,” along with beloved holiday songs from Broadway and films like “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” Whether you love show tunes, rock classics, or traditional holiday cheer, this magical musical experience has something for everyone—and promises to leave a holiday melody in your heart.

7:30 p.m | Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center | Tickets $40-$75 sinfoniagulfcoast.org

NOV. 28-DEC. 21

ANNIE

PRESENTED BY EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY

→ Join your favorite red-headed orphan Annie, Daddy Warbucks, and the eternally grumpy Miss Hannigan for this feelgood story of finding your forever home. With hits like “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile,” “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” and “Tomorrow,” you will experience the magic of the holidays and the spirit of generosity that always comes this time of year.

Showtimes include: Saturday, 7 p.m.; Sundays and Wednesdays, 2 p.m. No performance on Wednesday, Dec. 3. For more information, call (850) 684-0323 or to purchase tickets, email boxoffice@emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

DEC. 2-23

HOLIDAYS AT GRAND BOULEVARD

→ Come have a Grand Experience on the Boulevard, the Holiday season kicks off with our memorable Hometown Holiday Parade, Nov. 21, with a celebration of local groups, charities, and businesses. Grand Boulevard celebrates the season all month, with special visits from Santa and classic horse-drawn carriage rides. Come be a part of the magic!

December 2-23: Festival of Trees | December 2: Coastal Christmas with Santa | December 18-23, 4-6 p.m. | Hours vary for events. Visit grandboulevard.com or contact morag@grandboulevard.com for more information.

BAYTOWNE COUNTDOWN

DEC. 31

Ring in the New Year with a night to remember, featuring live music and two breathtaking fireworks displays at 8 p.m. and midnight. Enjoy a family friendly evening from 6-8 p.m. with face painting, kids activities, and live music. Dance the night away at the 21-plus event after 10 p.m. baytownewharf.com

PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR !

DEC. 31

Vocalist Michael Andrew returns to ring in the New Year with a tribute to

the Rat Pack, featuring favorites such as “Come Fly with Me,” “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” and more. pensacolasaenger.com

PCB ANNUAL BEACH BALL DROP

DEC. 31

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with this familyfriendly countdown that culminates in the gigantic, glowing beach-ball drop and a 10,000-beach-ball release over the crowd. The event at Pier Park in Panama City Beach also includes fireworks and live music. visitpanamacitybeach.com/ events/holiday-events/new-yearseve-beach-ball-drop

PROHIBITION REPEAL DINNER

JAN. 10

Restaurant Paradis is proud to present its tenth annual Prohibition Repeal Wine Dinner—a Gatsbythemed, Prohibition Era-inspired evening to benefit South Walton Academy. Enjoy a cocktail hour, four-course meal, and wine pairings curated by award-winning chef Mark Eichin and his culinary team. restaurantparadis.com

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

JAN. 15-FEB. 1

It’s winter 1934, and an avalanche has stopped the Orient Express dead in

its tracks. One murder and one train full of suspects equals one impossible case. Trapped in the snow with a killer still onboard, can the world’s most famous detective, Hercule Poirot, crack the case before the train reaches its final destination? emeraldcoasttheatre.org

MANIA: THE ABBA TRIBUTE

JAN. 17

“Mania: The ABBA Tribute” has successfully toured every continent in the world and has played over 3,000 live concerts in over 35 countries. Featuring an extraordinary cast of talented musicians and performers, this show delivers an authentic and unforgettable tribute

to the legendary Swedish band that has captured the hearts of fans for generations. pensacolasaenger.com

PINK RUN 5K & WALK FORE HER

JAN. 31

The annual Pink Run 5K and Walk benefiting Fore Her returns to The Village of Baytowne Wharf. This lively and memorable event includes a timed 5k race and walk followed by an after party, complete with a DJ, photo booth, light bites, prizes, and more! Proceeds from this event will benefit Fore Her, which provides financial assistance to local breast cancer patients. foreher.org/pinkrun

DEC. 7

POLAR EXPRESS HOLIDAY TEA AT OVIDE

→ All aboard for holiday magic! Enjoy a live “Hot Chocolate” performance— that heart-warming train-car moment brought to life courtesy of Emerald Coast Theatre Company. Sip tea, stack your cocoa just the way you like it, and share a cozy storybook afternoon together. Includes tea sandwiches, snacks, desserts, and a hot chocolate bar.

30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL

Sunday, December 7, 1 p.m., 3 p.m. | Price: $49/adult, $29/child (10 and under) | Required reservations may be secured via email to Marcos Chavez, mchavez@hoteleffie.com | hoteleffie.com/events/ polar-express-tea | See more holiday events at hoteleffie.com/ celebrate-holidays-style-hotel-effie-sandestin.

→ More than 5,000 music lovers come together over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend in January to attend the 30A Songwriters Festival. This unique event, co-produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and Russell Carter Artist Management, is a four-day music extravaganza featuring over 125 artists performing original songs in various genres ranging from country to Americana and folk as well as blues and soul in more than 30 dedicated listening rooms along South Walton’s scenic Highway 30A and beyond. JAN. 16-19, 2026

SAVE THE DATES

APRIL 9-JUNE 11, 2026

MATTIE KELLY ARTS FOUNDATION CONCERTS IN THE VILLAGE

→ Thursday evenings in the spring, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents the thirtieth annual 10-concert live music series. Opening night on April 9 features Smash Mouth, kicking off this milestone season in celebratory style. The exciting lineup includes Black Jacket Symphony: The Music of Van Halen, Yacht Rock Revue, Rumours ATL, Brass Transit: The Music of Chicago, Boogie Wonder Band, The Molly Ringwalds, The Turnstiles: The Ultimate Tribute to the Music of Billy Joel, The Return: A Beatles Tribute, and A1A: The Official Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band. Bring a blanket or chair, and enjoy dinner al fresco from local restaurants and food trucks.

Tickets are $40 (including ticketing fee). Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. MKAF members enjoy early admission and attend for free. Proceeds benefit Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and its ArtsReach initiatives serving local K-12 students, individuals with disabilities, and military service members and veterans throughout Northwest Florida and the Southeast. Purchase at mkaf.org.

REGIONAL

JAN. 17

TALLAHASSEE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

RENÉE FLEMING: VOICE OF NATURE

→ One of the most beloved and celebrated singers of our time returns to perform with the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra to celebrate its forty-fifth anniversary. This recital blends music and film, spanning centuries of song, from Handel to Hammerstein.

Showtime: 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at tallahasseesymphony.org or by calling (850) 224-0461.

REGIONAL JAN. 25

THE ARTIST SERIES OF TALLAHASSEE

→ The Artist Series of Tallahassee presents the Tekalli Duo featuring Suliman Tekalli on violin and Jamila Tekalli Hanner on piano. This brother-sister duo has entranced audiences with its virtuosity and musical nuances. The concert is Jan. 25, 2:30 p.m., at St. Peter’s Anglican Cathedral, 4784 Thomasville Road, Tallahassee, Florida.

For tickets and season passports, go to theartistseries.org or call (850) 445-1616. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the concert.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Christie’s International Real Estate Emerald Coast

The Live to Give Charity Golf Tournament

SEPT. 8 The 2025 Christie’s International Real Estate Emerald Coast Live to Give Charity Golf Tournament raised over $55,000 for the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation. This inspiring event united the community for a day of golf, generosity, and impact, supporting vital research and resources for children and families affected by brain tumors.

PHOTOS BY MAX ZECH WEAVER

1 Jim Ryan

2 Josh Staggs, Brock Meyer, Charlie Meyer, and Jonathan Cottrell

3 Chris Gifford, Jacob Watkins, and Jes Simpson

4 Julie Smith, Kersten Bowman, and Lisa Moyer

5 Beau Blankenship, Ryan Lillie, Phillip Poundstone, and Jacob Watkins

6 Jes Simpson and Joe Simpson

7 Olivia Prewitt and Audrey O’Brien

SOCIAL STUDIES

Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation Check Presentation

SEPT. 18 Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) donated $3 million to 16 children’s charities in Northwest Florida in a private check presentation ceremony at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa on September 18 following another successful year of fundraising. To date, DCWAF has donated more than $38 million to help children in need in Northwest Florida since its inception in 2005.

PHOTOS BY KIARA

WATSON

1 Back row: Kevin Maloney, Lisa Wainright, Leah Harrison, Balon Loften, Julie Porterfield, Ginny Barr, Staci Berryman, Nikki Owen; front row: Hillary Glenn, Valerie Bogar, Lindy Wood, Shervin Rassa, Teresa Jones, Carly Barnes, and Paul Barcus

2 Mattie Simpson, Kate MacMillan, Karah FridleyYoung, Melissa Eager, and Jessica Roberts

3 Julie Porterfield and Shelly Hinojosa

4 Jane and Greg Baer

5 Lane Redding, Lindy Wood, Mazie Armantrout, and Abbie Walsh

6 Teresa Jones, Ginny Richardson, Carly Barnes, and Emily Proctor

7 Annalise Dedicke and Jessica Roberts

SOCIAL STUDIES

Tom Glavine’s Field of Dreams Golf Outing

OCT. 13

The Tom Glavine’s Field of Dreams Golf Outing brought golfers, community leaders, and supporters together at Camp Creek Golf Course on Monday, October 13, raising an incredible $200,000 to benefit the Seaside School Foundation and the Seacoast Collegiate High School Expansion Project in partnership with Northwest Florida State College, advancing education in Walton County.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOM GLAVINE’S FIELD OF DREAMS GOLF TOURNAMENT

1 Tom and Chris Glavine, Governor Ron DeSantis, along with staff member Annie Sheets and Seaside School students

2 First Place Net Winner: Arlease Ciatto, McKenzie Burleigh, Kristy Holditch, and Kevin Rosa

3 First Place Gross Winner: Jeff Roland, Jim Holden, Jamey Price, and John Davenport

4 Seaside School students

5 Title Sponsor, Wharton Smith Group: Darin Uptigrove, Jake Reighard, Jason Albano, and AJ Brown

6 Annie Sheets, Drew Ward, and Daniel Bump with Seaside School™ students

7 Governor Ron DeSantis with Seaside School students

dining guide

AMERICAN

BAYSIDE CAFE

Enjoy a breakfast buffet, lunch garden, and themed dinners overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay. Miramar Beach, (850) 267-8700, sandestin.com/ bayside-cafe $$ B L D

BEACHSIDE BURGER COMPANY ★

Casual food shack serving smash burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and chicken tenders. Inlet Beach, (850) 974-1572 $ L D

BUFFALO JACK’S

LEGENDARY WINGS & PIZZA

Catch the game and enjoy legendary wings, pizza, burgers, and Italian dishes with a New Orleans flair. Miramar Beach, (850) 424-6288, buffalojackslegendarywings.com $$ L D

BUFFALO’S REEF ★

Beer and wings from mild to super-hot in an unfussy setting. Fort Walton Beach, (850) 243-9464, buffalosreef.com $$ L D

THE BODACIOUS BREW

This coffee house and eatery specializes in handcrafted espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos. For breakfast, try their omelets and acai bowls; for lunch, salads, wraps, and flatbread pizzas are on the menu. Pensacola, (850) 434-6300, bodaciousshops.com/cafe $ B L

CAFE 30A ★

Innovative American menu in a coastal-classy environment. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 231-2166, cafethirtya.com $$$ L D

CHIRINGO ★

Tacos, sandwiches, and sharables served in a colorful, laid-back setting with signature cocktails and water views. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 399-1604, chiringograyton.com $$ L D

THE CRAFT BAR ★

Craft brews on tap along with artisan cocktails and elevated bar fare. Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Destin*, Miramar Beach, Grayton Beach, (850) 460-7907*, thecraftbarfl.com $$ L D

EAGLE’S NEST AT BLACKWATER

Casual dining featuring American fare, live music, game-day showings, and themed events. Crestview, (850) 331-3594, eaglesnestatblackwater.com $$ L D

FIREFLY

Fresh Gulf seafood, steak, sushi, and signature cocktails. Panama City Beach, (850) 249-3359, fireflypcb.com $$$ D

FUDPUCKER’S BEACHSIDE BAR & GRILL ★

Seafood dishes and American fare in a fun, casual atmosphere with entertainment including a live gator attraction and deck games. Destin, (850) 654-4200, fudpucker.com $$ L D

GALLION’S

Elevated small plates, chef-inspired dishes, and specialty craft cocktails in a sophisticated, relaxed setting. Rosemary Beach, (850) 399-4909, gallions30a.com $$$ L D

GEORGE BISTRO + BAR

Husband and wife owners are driven by a passion to create exceptionally humble, ingredient-driven food, coffees, and cocktails while treating guests like family. Pensacola, (850) 912-4655, georgebistroandbar.com $$$ L D

LOUISIANA LAGNIAPPE ★

A taste of New Orleans hits the coast through Louisiana-style favorites like shrimp and grits and Cajun seafood gumbo. Destin, (850) 837-0881, thelouisianalagniappe.com $$ D

LULU’S

Lucy Buffett’s funky hangout features cocktails, burgers, and seafood, plus allergyfriendly menus. Destin, (850) 710-5858, lulusfunfoodmusic.com $$ L D

MAGNOLIA GRILL

Steak, seafood, pasta, soups, salads, and desserts. Fort Walton Beach, (850) 302-0266, themagnoliagrillfwb.com $$ L D

MARINA BAR & GRILL

Seafood, po’ boys, burgers, and salads. Miramar Beach, (850) 267-7778, sandestin.com/ dine/marina-bar-grill $ B L D

MARINA CAFE ★

Gourmet pizzas, Creole, and American cuisine. Destin, (850) 837-7960, marinacafe.com $$$ D

NICK’S BOATHOUSE

Serving a wide variety of seafood, steaks, and flatbreads by the waterfront. Pensacola, (850) 912-8775, nicksboathouse.com $$ L D

NORTH BEACH SOCIAL

Favorites include chef Jim Shirley’s famous Grits a Ya Ya, the NB Social Burger, fresh raw oysters, and tuna poke bowls. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 622-8110, northbeach.social $$ L D

OVIDE

Located inside the new Hotel Effie, acclaimed chef Hugh Acheson brings together classic Gulf Coast flavors and impeccable classic French technique. Miramar Beach, (850) 351-3030, hoteleffie.com/dining/ovide $$$ D

THE RED BAR ★

Locally renowned landmark location serving classic meals in a casual, eclectic environment. Grayton Beach, (850) 231-1008, theredbar.com $$ L D

RESTAURANT IRON

Buzzy, stylish locale serving gourmet, reimagined takes on Southern cuisine, plus clever cocktails. Pensacola, (850) 912-4655, restaurantiron.com $$ D

RESTAURANT PARADIS

Restaurant and lounge offers rich coastal flavors in its innovative dishes. Rosemary Beach, (850) 534-0400, restaurantparadis.com $$$ D

SHADES BAR & GRILL ★

A 30A mainstay for over 20 years, Shades features 17 high-def TVs plus a menu of salsas, steaks, sandwiches, and fish tacos. Inlet Beach, (850) 231-9410, shades30a.com $$ L D

SUNQUEST CRUISES

SOLARIS YACHT ★

Enjoy a fusion of ambiance, food, and live music aboard the SOLARIS yacht offering three decks of indoor and outdoor spaces. Miramar Beach, (850) 650-2519, sunquestcruises.com $$$ D

VUE ON 30A ★

Fine New American dining in a modern, cream and beige waterfront spot with bar, lounge, and views. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-2305, vueon30a.net $$ L D

THE WINE BAR ★

A gathering spot for lunch or dinner, plus daily happy hour specials. Destin* and Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 269-2902*, thewinebarfl.com

$$ L D

ASIAN

BASMATI’S ASIAN CUISINE ★

Sushi and Pan-Asian eats in a mellow atmosphere. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-3028, basmatisthirtya.com $$ L D

DOMO CAFÉ

This Asian kitchen offers dozens of sushi options, including vegetarian, signature, fried, and baked rolls. Fort Walton Beach, (850) 226-6412, Facebook: Domo Cafe

$$ L D

LIN’S ASIAN CUISINE

Authentic Asian cuisine at a convenient and casual location offering dine-in or takeout. Miramar Beach, (850) 424-5888, linsasianfl.com

$ L D

OSAKA JAPANESE HIBACHI

STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR ★

Known for its sushi, Osaka also serves a variety of veggie, chicken, steak, and seafood dishes. Destin, (850) 650-4688, theosakasteakhouse.com

$$ L D

P.F. CHANG’S

A Chinese restaurant serving Mongolian, Thai, Korean, and other Pan-Asian dishes. Miramar Beach, (850) 269-1806, pfchangs.com

$$ L D

THAI CHIANG RAI RESTAURANT ★

Classic Thai cuisine featuring curries, fried rice, and noodles. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 213-3972, Facebook: Thai Chiang Rai Restaurant $$ L D

THAI DELIGHTS RESTAURANT

Thai soups, curries, and rice and noodle dishes in a variety of meat, seafood, and veggie options for dine in or takeout. Destin, (850) 650-3945, Facebook: Thai Delights Restaurant $ L D

BARBECUE

3 SONS BAR-B-Q

Barbecue classics smoked on-site daily alongside Southern sides and desserts. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 278-6082, 3sonsbarbq.com $ L D

98 BAR-B-QUE ★

Award-winning barbecue, gumbo, sandwiches, and salads in a casual atmosphere. Dine in, take-out, and catering. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 622-0679, 98bbq.com $ L D

BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH/BAKERY

BISTROLOGY

Fully loaded brunch spot featuring oversized omelets, French toast with sweet toppings, stuffed croissants, specialty coffee and beverages, and more. Miramar Beach, (850) 757-7374, bistrology.restaurant $$ B L D

BLACK BEAR BREAD CO. ★

Contemporary cafe for craft coffee, house-baked breads, pastries, sandwiches and all-day breakfast. Miramar Beach, Grayton Beach*, Seaside, (850) 213-4528*, blackbearbreadco.com $ B L

BLUE MOUNTAIN BAKERY ★

Organic baked goods, wraps, sandwiches, and bowls. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-0400, bluemountainbakery.com $$ B L

CRACKINGS. ★

Omelets, scramblers, pancakes, French toast, waffles, mimosas, bloody marys, sandwiches, and more. Destin, (850) 650-0499, crackingsfl.com $$ B L

MAMA CLEMENZA’S EUROPEAN BREAKFAST

A range of European-inspired breakfast dishes, cappuccinos, and pastries. Miramar Beach, (850) 424-3157, Facebook: Mama Clemenzas $$ B

RUBY SLIPPER CAFE

A New Orleans-inspired brunch spot offering classic takes, signature Southern specialties, and eye-opening cocktails. Pensacola, Destin*, Miramar Beach, (850) 660-7100*, rubybrunch.com $$ B L

DESSERT

30A COOKIES & CREAM

Treats from Great American Cookies and Marble Slab Creamery make for an irresistible combination. Seagrove*, Inlet Beach, (850) 231-2552*, 30acookiesandicecream.com $

BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH CREAMERY

Homemade ice cream, yogurt, and sorbet at The Creamery and milkshakes, coffee, and donuts at the Shake Shop. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 278-6849, bluemountainbeachcreamery.com $

BEACHSIDE BUBBLE WAFFLE ★

Serving bubble waffles filled with ice cream, tasty toppings, and sauces. Navarre, Instagram: Beachside Bubble Waffle $

FRENCH

BAY CAFE FRENCH RESTAURANT

Step out on the bay for authentic European cuisine, featuring fresh local seafood, and decadent cream sauces. Fort Walton Beach, (850) 244-3550, Instagram: Bay Cafe French Restaurant $$ L D

DAT CAJUN PLACE ★

Easygoing hangout featuring Cajun eats and regular live music. Panama City, (850) 5885314, datcajunplace.com $$ L D

KENNY D’S ★

Cajun beach bar and eatery in a casual, comfortable atmosphere with a New Orleans vibe. Miramar Beach, (850) 650-0755, kennyds. net $$ L D

RENAISSANCE FRENCH RESTAURANT ★

Elevated French fare in a cozy bistro setting. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 830-7754, renaissancefrench.com $$ D

GREEK

AEGEAN RESTAURANT ★

Authentic Greek restaurant serving salads, wraps, pastas, and more. Mary Esther, Shalimar, Miramar Beach*, (850) 460-2728*, aegeanfl.com $$ B L D

IRISH

JOHNNY MCTIGHE’S IRISH PUB

Easygoing pub providing Irish and American eats, a game room for kids, and deck seating. Blue Mountain Beach, (850) 267-0101, johnnymctighes.com $$ L D

MCGUIRE’S IRISH PUB

Burgers, pub grub, and the famous 18-cent Senate Bean Soup. Pensacola, Destin*, (850) 650-0000*, mcguiresirishpub.com $$ L D

ITALIAN/PIZZA

AMICI 30A ITALIAN KITCHEN

Offering authentic Italian cuisine with a flair for celebration. Inlet Beach, (850) 909-0555, amici30a.com $$$ L D

ANGELENA’S ITALIANO

In the heart of downtown, nationally renowned Chef James Briscione’s menu serves up rustic yet elegant plates with an Italian, coastal vibe. Pensacola, (850) 542-8398, angelenaspensacola.com $$ D

CLEMENZA’S UPTOWN

Classic Italian dishes including pastas, wood-fired pizza, salads, and desserts. Fort Walton Beach, (850) 243-0707, clemenzasatuptownstation.com $$ L D

FARM & FIRE SOUTHERN PIZZERIA

Featuring a clean-burning coal oven to impart a unique, full flavor to their pizzas, whole fish, steaks, and roasted chicken. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 622-3871, farmandfiresouthwalton.com $$ D

FAT CLEMENZA’S

Brick oven pizzeria serving wood-fired pies, specialty desserts, and more. Miramar Beach, (850) 650-5980, fatclemenzas.com $$ L D

GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA

Pizzas and calzones baked to perfection in their signature coal-burning oven, delivering an experience not possible from conventional ovens. Miramar Beach, (850) 837-3095, grimaldispizzeria. com/location/grand-boulevard $$ L D

MERLINS PIZZA ★

Locally owned pizzeria serving specialty and customized pies made with fresh ingredients. Destin, (850) 650-3000, merlinspizza.com $ L D

MIMMO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO ★

Authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color. Destin*, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 460-7353*, mimmos.com $$ L D

PAZZO ITALIANO

Destin’s newest Italian restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine such as wood-fired pizzas, pasta, calzones, salads, chef specialties, and nightly specials. Destin, (850) 974-5484, pazzodestin.com $$ L D

THE PIZZA BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S

Artisan cheese, fresh salads, antipasto dishes, homemade soups, seasonal vegetables, hearty pastas, and homemade wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Seaside, (850) 231-3113, budandalleys.com/ pizza-bar $$ L D

TRATTORIA BORAGO

Enjoy classic Italian cuisine and favorites like pork tenderloin or pan-seared grouper from the open kitchen. Grayton Beach, (850) 231-9167, Facebook: Borago Restaurant $$ D

MEXICAN

BURRITO DEL SOL

This Mexican restaurant serves fresh Bajastyle Mexican food, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. Fort Walton Beach*, Destin, (850) 226-8016*, burritodelsol.com $ L D

CANTINA LAREDO ★

A gourmet twist on Mexican favorites. Miramar Beach, (850) 654-5649, cantinalaredo.com/ location/sandestin-florida $$ L D

MACHO TACO ★

Smoked meats and traditional Mexican dishes with a twist. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 660-2172, eatmachotaco.com $ L D

PEPITO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT ★

Serving award-winning authentic Mexican food with the finest ingredients available since 2000. Niceville, Fort Walton Beach, Destin*, Miramar Beach, (850) 650-7734*, mypepitos.com $$ L D

PEPPER’S MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA

Casual eatery with familiar Mexican dishes, including seafood and vegetarian options, plus a full bar. Crestview, Niceville, Shalimar*, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City, (850) 613-6970*, peppersmexicancantina.com $ L D

RED FISH TACO

Featuring fresh takes on classic fare, such as street tacos, burritos, taco salads, and quesadillas. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 994-7443, redfishtaco.com $$ L D

TACO 30A

Food truck and catering service dishing up authentic street tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. Weekly rotating location schedule, eattaco30a.com $ L D

THE TACO BAR AT BUD & ALLEY’S

Baja fish tacos, homemade guacamole, burritos, and top-shelf margaritas. Seaside, (850) 231-4781, budandalleys.com/taco-bar $$ L D

SEAFOOD

AJ’S SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR ★

Known for waterfront views, raw oysters, and live music, AJ’s serves up fresh local seafood, cold beverages, and good times. Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa Island, Destin*, Grayton Beach, (850) 837-1913*, ajsdestin.com $$ L D

THE BAY SOUTH WALTON

Waterfront restaurant overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay, offering Gulf Coast cuisine, sushi, a 12-draft beer system, plus wine and crafted cocktails. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 622-2291, baysouthwalton.com $$ L D

BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE ★

Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine with harbor views. Destin, (850) 424-7406, boshamps.com

$$$ L D

BROTULA’S SEAFOOD HOUSE & STEAMER

Fresh steamed and boiled seafood dishes. Destin, brotulas.com (850) 460-8900. $$ L D

BUD & ALLEY’S WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

Sea-to-table dining, serving fresh seafood, steak, and vegetarian dishes. Seaside, (850) 231-5900, budandalleys.com $$$

CAPT. ANDERSON’S RESTAURANT ★

Since 1967, offering traditional seafood items, flavorful salads, and soups with a view of the marina. Panama City Beach, (850) 234-2225, captandersons.com $$$ D

THE CRAB TRAP

Beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico and fresh local seafood processed in the restaurant’s own facility. Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Destin*, (850) 654-2722*, crabtrapflorida.com $$

DEWEY DESTIN’S

Award-winning seafood in a quaint house. Destin at Crab Island, Destin Harbor*, Navarre, (850) 837-7525*, destinseafood.com $$ L D

DOWN ISLAND GULF

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT ★

Modern eatery serving elevated Southern and Gulf favorites in a casual setting. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 777-3385, downislandsrb.com $$ L D

FOOW RESTAURANT

Southern coastal cuisine with an Asian flair at the picturesque WaterColor Inn. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 534-5050, dinefish30a.com/food $$ L D

THE GRAND MARLIN ★

Elegant waterfront dining featuring fresh seafood and made-from-scratch dishes. Pensacola*, Panama City, (850) 677-9153* thegrandmarlin.com $$$ L D

GRAYTON SEAFOOD COMPANY

A casual beach-neighborhood gathering spot and seafood restaurant on Scenic 30A. Grayton Beach, (850) 714-2155, graytonseafood.com $$ D

HARBOR DOCKS ★

A surf-and-turf restaurant also offering highquality great sushi. Destin, (850) 837-2506, harbordocks.com $$ L D

JACKACUDA’S SEAFOOD & SUSHI

Asian and Southern-inspired dishes including seafood, sushi, salad, and sandwiches. Destin, (850) 460-2909, jackacudas.com $$ L D

OLD BAY STEAMER

Fresh-caught seafood and steamers served in a casual and eclectic atmosphere. Fort Walton Beach, (850) 664-2795, oldbaysteamerfwb.com $$$ D

O’QUIGLEY’S SEAFOOD STEAMER AND OYSTER SPORTS BAR ★

Seafood steamer and sports bar serving local oysters, shrimp, fish, and signature gumbo. Destin, (850) 837-1015, oquigleysseafoodsteamer.com $$ L D

PESCADO SEAFOOD GRILL & ROOFTOP BAR

Dining room, inside bar, and outside rooftop bar overlooking the Gulf of Mexico; extraordinary service and cuisine by Chef Brendan Wakeham. Rosemary Beach, (850) 213-4600, rooftop30a.com $$$ L D

RUNAWAY ISLAND

Crab, oysters, and grouper sandwiches in a casual, beach-bar setting, just steps away from the sand. Panama City Beach, (850) 634-4884, runawayislandpcb.com $$ L D

SHUNK GULLEY OYSTER BAR ★

This seafood and casual fare restaurant features classic coastal cuisine and genuine Southern hospitality plus live music daily inside the panoramic bar. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 622-2733, shunkgulley.com $$ L D

STINKY’S FISH CAMP

This seafood and wine mainstay promises Gulf-fresh fare. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-3053, stinkysfishcamp.com $$ L D

STEAK & SEAFOOD

AMBROSIA 30A PRIME

SEAFOOD & STEAKS ★

Offering an upscale dining experience and a romantic setting, Ambrosia 30A features seafood specialties, steaks, desserts, and more. 75 Origins Main St., Watersound. (850) 909-0100, ambrosia30a.com $$$ D

AUSTONS ON 98 OYSTER BAR AND GRILL

Home of the 102-foot bar, specialties include littleneck clams, raw oysters, clam chowder, and jumbo shrimp cocktail. Miramar Beach, (850) 842-3200, austonson98.com $$ L D

BEACH WALK CAFE

Located at the Henderson Park Inn, this award-winning establishment features grouper Vince, pepper-crusted yellowfin tuna, and seafood pasta Rockefeller. Destin, (850) 650-7100, hendersonparkinn.com/dine/beachwalk-cafe $$$ D

BIJOUX

Fine dining coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair, Gulf seafood, prime steaks. Miramar Beach, (850) 622-0760, bijouxdestin.com $$$ D

CAPTAIN DAVE’S ON THE GULF

Inspired by traditional waterfront dining, Captain Dave’s features American seafood cuisine infused with a contemporary Gulf Coast twist. Destin, (850) 837-2627, captdavesonthegulf.com $$$ D

THE EDGE SEAFOOD & SKYBAR ★

Located at the Destin Harbor, fresh catches soon land on plates at The Edge. Head up to the adults-only Skybar for great views and live music. Destin, (850) 659-3549, edgeseafood.com $$ L D

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

Enjoy fine dining with family and friends, offering prime steak, lobster, wine, and more. Miramar Beach, (850) 269-0830, flemingssteakhouse.com/Locations/FL/Sandestin $$$ D

THE GULF ON OKALOOSA ISLAND

Locally inspired food and beverages in a beautiful waterfront setting, alongside a curated vinyl record collection. Fort Walton Beach, (850) 387-1300, thegulf.com/locations/fortwalton-beach $ L D

M&P BY FARRINGTON FOODS

An immersive luxury dining experience hosted by chef William Farrington. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 739-2950, farringtonfoods.com/m&p30a $$$ D

THE OCEAN CLUB

Storied restaurant serves fresh Gulf seafood and the finest steaks. Enjoy live music, great service, and a full bar. Miramar Beach, (850) 267-3666, theoceanclubdestin.com $$$ D

OLD FLORIDA FISH HOUSE

Nestled beside Eastern Lake, find your retreat for oysters, fresh seafood fare, sushi, and other classics. Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 534-3045, oldfloridafishhouse.com $$$ L D

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Steak and seafood. New Orleans-inspired. Destin, (850) 337-5108, ruthschris.com/locations/fl/ destin/destin/7396 $$$ D

SALTWATER GRILL

Fresh Gulf seafood, choice steaks, and craft martinis are anchored by this dining room’s 25,000-gallon saltwater aquarium centerpiece. Panama City Beach, (850) 230-2739, saltwatergrillpcb.com $$$ D

SEAGAR’S PRIME STEAKS & SEAFOOD ★

Premium steak, fresh seafood, and caviar. Miramar Beach, (850) 622-1500, seagars.com $$$ D

SLICK LIPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE

Family-friendly seafood and oyster bar featuring locally caught fare and nestled in picturesque Baytowne Wharf. Miramar Beach, (850) 347-5060, slicklipsseafood.com $$ L D

Visit our comprehensive, searchable dining guide online at EmeraldCoastMagazine.com/Restaurants.

A YEAR IN NATURE

Photo contest culminates in winning calendar

→The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA) launched a calendar photo contest at the beginning of 2025 as part of the Mattie Kelly Environmental Initiative. The contest invites amateur photographers of all skill levels to capture the natural beauty and ecological heritage of the Choctawhatchee Bay and surrounding areas. Twelve winners were selected to be included in a 2026 CBA calendar. Here are a few winning contestant highlights.

JANUARY: SQUIRREL IN THE SNOW, BY AUGUSTO CAYSON BARRETO

➺ “I was 15, almost 16, when this photo was taken. I was a full-time college student at Northwest Florida State College, and I just happened to be taking a photography course that semester. The snow gave me a perfect opportunity to use my camera and experiment. There are a lot of squirrels in my area. I was surprised to still see them out in the snow. This one was bracing against the snow just to get some birdseed we left on our porch.”—Augusto Cayson Barreto

APRIL: NORTH AMERICAN LEAST TERN MOTHER AND BABY, BY STACEY TOBIK

➺ Magical photos happen when you least expect them, but you know the moment it happens. This photo was one of those moments. My husband obliged me when I told him I wanted to take photos of the North American least terns and skimmers who nest along the Okaloosa Island seawall each spring. I was leaning against our truck, taking random photos, when I noticed the sweet face of the baby tern in its nest. Within seconds, the mama tern returned with lunch. Just as she was settling into the nest, the baby turned and looked directly at me. Pure magic!”

—Stacey Tobik

OCTOBER: BLUE HERON SIDE PROFILE, BY DAVID BAILEY

➺ “There are so many amazing species of shore birds, raptors, and other birds that make their homes around Choctawhatchee Bay. One of the most common year-round residents is the great blue heron. This photo was taken at Veterans Park on Okaloosa Island where the herons have a colony because of its easy access to the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. This shot was taken with a telephoto lens, a must-have for wildlife photography to keep a respectable and safe distance from the critters. ‘Do not disturb’ is a great motto for wildlife photographers.”

—David Bailey