Nestled along Florida’s Emerald Coast, 30A is a perfect vacation destination with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and delicious food! This is your guide to the 30A best restaurants you won’t want to miss!
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30A Florida is gorgeous and at times, seems right out of a storybook. This scenic stretch is famous for its natural beauty, including stunning white beaches, coastal dune lakes, state parks and miles of bike trails that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
But the food here? Amazing! This list includes locals’ favorites, underrated spots and must-visit restaurants while you’re vacationing here.
As a first time visitor to 30A, it can be a bit confusing to understand the area. This string of quaint, vibrant communities, each with its own unique charm and character aren’t necessarily towns, but small gatherings of buildings, homes and restaurants. Each community has a different vibe, and basically run into each other.
Throughout this guide, I’ll cover which community each of these best 30A restaurants are.
Best restaurants 30A map
Here’s a handy map to show you where each restaurant is – super handy if your accommodations are on 30A.
Note that most locations on this list actually have “Santa Rosa” as the official address!
30A Best Restaurants
As someone who’s vacationed in this area many times over the years, my favorite restaurants are in this guide. I hope you enjoy!
1. Chanticleer Eatery (a favorite on this list of best restaurants in 30A)
Come for: lunch or dinner
You should try: literally everything on the menu is phenomenal
Location: Grayton Beach! Official address: 55 Clayton Ln, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
This is one of the most underrated spots to eat along 30A, Florida! With the highest ratings and reviews of any restaurants on this list, it’s deserving of a spot on the best restaurants 30A!
Chanticleer Eatery is a true gem in the heart of 30A. It gives off a casual, local southern food vibe. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal with family and friends when visiting the area. The outdoor dining is the way to comfortably relax at the end of a long beach day.
Chanticleer Eatery’s menu is packed with hearty, homemade dishes that feel like a hug on a plate. The portions are large and you really won’t leave hungry!
Shrimp and grits, pulled pork, grilled Mahi Mahi… there’s something here for everyone to love. Don’t forget to try their sweet treats too – the desserts here are not to be missed!
2. Crackings
Come for: breakfast or brunch
You should try: Croisseignets, lobster and grits
Location: Grayton Beach! Official address: 51 Uptown Grayton Cir, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Start your day right at Crackings, a breakfast spot known for its delicious breakfasts and brunches. My kids and I enjoyed the Croisseignets, which are a cross between croissant and beignet. Ours were powdered sugar and melt-in-your-mount good.
Crackings also has a huge variety of omelets, pancakes and French toast too. While I personally didn’t go for the lobster and grits, apparently it’s super popular and delicious!
Pro tip: parking can be a challenge in this area. There’s off-street parking right across the road from the shopping center.
3. Pickle’s Burger & Shake
Come for: breakfast, lunch, dinner or happy hour
You should try: truffle fries, margaritas and classic cheeseburger
Location: Seaside! Official address: 2236 E County Hwy 30A #34, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
If you’re craving a good old-fashioned burger, Pickle’s Burger & Shake is your go-to along 30A.This casual eatery serves up some of the juiciest burgers in Florida, along with massive onion rings and creamy milkshakes.
But more than that, the large menu expands over breakfast with omelettes, pancakes, bacon and the like. At lunch and dinner, grab a legendary burger and shake to go alongside with it. Or, save a bit and grab happy hour prices!
It’s a great place for a relaxed meal while vacationing in 30A, where you can enjoy good food in a fun, laid-back setting in vibrant Seaside.
4. Mr. Gyro Hero
Come for: lunch or dinner
You should try: gyros or kebabs – vegetarian friendly!
Location: Seaside! Official address: 2215 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Ever since spending two weeks in Greece, island-hopping through the islands of Mykonos and Santorini, I’ve been craving Greek food.
Well, Mr. Gyro Hero stands out on 30A for bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to Florida’s Emerald Coast. Here, you can enjoy authentic Greek gyros, crafted with perfectly seasoned meats, fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce.
I loved there were so many vegeterian options, too, which seems rare in this part of Florida. From tabbouleh to baba ghanoush and falafel wraps, so much here is sure to satisfy any craving for Greek flavors.
Mr. Gyro Hero is an underrated spot on this list of the best 30a restaurants, for sure!
Note: this is located in one of the Seaside airstream food trucks. Parking can be a challenge so grab a free spot behind the shopping center.
5. Blue Mountain Beach Creamery
Come for: after-lunch or after-dinner treat, or anytime you need a refreshing sweet treat
You should try: Strawberry Fields or Oatmeal Cookie
Location: Grayton Beach! Official address: 2129 S Co Hwy 83 B, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Located just minutes away from the beach is Blue Mountain Beach Creamery. Cool off with a visit after lounging on the best 30A beaches, where you can enjoy homemade ice cream or classic root beer floats.
With fun flavors like Monkey Moose Tracks, Banana Pudding, Superman and Black Cherry, there’s so many options to choose from. It certainly deserves a spot on this list of best 30A restaurants, as my family actually visited twice during our last trip to the FL panhandle.
It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy a cool treat under the Florida sun.
6. Pazzo Italiano
Come for: lunch or dinner on weekdays / dinner on Saturday
You should try: Cesar salad, wood fired pizzas
Location: North of Dune Allen. Official Address: 111 N County Hwy 393 suite 301, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Perhaps the most authentic Italian food in this part of Florida, visiting Pazzo Italiano is a must if you’re craving good pizza, pasta or salads.
From wood-fired pizzas to creamy pastas and everything in between, the flavors here will transport you straight to Italy. The Cesar Salad was to die for, and perhaps one of the best I’ve ever had!
7. Black Bear Bread Company
Come for: breakfast or brunch
You should try: Pastries, coffee or French Toast
Location: multiple in Grayton Beach and Seaside
This artisan bakery specializes in handcrafted breads and pastries, and they’re oh-so delicious. You know it’s good; there are several Black Bear Bread Company locations along 30A, and there’s often a line out the door, too.
Key lime croissants, lemon blueberry scones, handmade PopTarts, fruit danish, morning buns and more – there’s so many delightful breakfast pastries that are a fun way to start the beach day. If you need a bit more, try the breakfast sandwiches like the bacon, egg and cheese biscuit or the bagel & lox board, featuring smoked salmon.
8. Playa Bowls (another favorite on this list of best restaurants in 30A)
Come for: breakfast or a light meal
You should try: Tropical acai, pink flamingo pitaya or aloha smoothie
Location: Rosemary Beach! Official address: 58 Main St, Rosemary Beach, FL 32413
If you’re looking for a lighter meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Playa Bowls is your spot. Specializing in acai bowls, smoothies, and other healthy treats, Playa Bowls offers a refreshing break from some of the heavier meals on this list.
Each bowl is a blend of fresh fruits, nuts, and seeds, topped with delicious drizzles like honey or peanut butter. It’s the perfect place to fuel up with something sweet and nutritious after a day of exploring or relaxing on the beach.
Oh, and this picturesque restaurant is located on one of the most charming streets in all of 30A, so grab your camera for some fun shots!
Best restaurants on 30A, continued
Can you believe this list?! Just half way done, and one of my favorites for outdoor dining is up next!
9. North Beach Social
Come for: lunch or dinner / breakfast on the weekends
You should try: Fried jalapeños, Tuna Poke Bowl, Fish Tacos
Location: North of Blue Mountain Beach. Official address: 24200 US-331, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
North Beach Social offers a unique dining experience right on the water – talk about coastal charm! It’s a fantastic place to enjoy a meal with your toes in the sand. Or, go inside to dine and enjoy live music.
Perfect for families, North Beach Social has a large outdoor activity area for kids to enjoy. The menu features a variety of dishes, from light snacks to hearty meals, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The outdoor seating and live music create a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.
If you love seafood, this is a great spot to be. And unlike many other local restaurants we’ve visited over the years, not all the seafood here is fried! Win!
The Tuna Poke Bowl is delicious, and reminds me of the best places to eat in Kauai for the awesome flavors. North Beach Social is a bit north of 30A, but worth the extra few minutes to dine here.
10. The Perfect Pig
Come for: breakfast, lunch or dinner
You should try: Fried green tomatoes, brisket nachos, French toast
Location: multiple in Watercolor and Seagrove Beach
If you’re in the mood for some delicious southern cuisine, The Perfect Pig is the place to go. This delightful spot offers a mix of comfort food with a gourmet twist.
With a hearty breakfast offering and lunch on the lighter side, the menu really picks up for dinnertime! Savory pulled pork, brisket, or ribs cooked to perfection, paired with sides like mac ‘n’ cheese or collard greens.
With multiple locations, you know it’s good! The Perfect Pig is cozy, tasty and captures the essence of southern charm.
Bonus! I found the prices to be decent for the area.
11. Amigos 30A Mexican Kitchen (one of the very best restaurants 30A FL, for sure)
Come for: lunch or dinner
You should try: Margaritas, tacos, rice bowls – it’s all good!
Location: Inlet Beach! Official address: 12805 US-98 Suite R 101, Inlet Beach, FL 32461
For a taste of Mexico, head over to Amigos 30A Mexican Kitchen on the far east end of 30A. Here, you can enjoy traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and quesadillas.
The ingredients are always fresh, and the spices are perfectly balanced to offer a delicious bite every time. I especially found the rice and beans to be flavorful, which is hard to accomplish for most Mexican restaurants it seems!
The vibrant atmosphere and colorful decorations add to the festive feel of this lively spot. Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy a margarita or two – they’re delicious!
12. Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs
Come for: lunch or dinner
You should try: any one of the hot dog creations
Location: Seaside! Official address: 2235 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
If you love a classic hot dog, Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs is the place for you! Rated by my kids as one of the best places to eat in 30A, they loved the hot dogs here.
You could go for a classic, with toppings like onions, sauerkraut, chili, etc. Or, make it a specialty beach dog like The Chi Town, The Philly Dog or The Carolina.
This laid-back eatery specializes in classic American beach fare, and is located at the Seaside airstream food truck park.
Make sure to account for parking and shopping during your time in Seaside!
13. Blue Mountain Bakery
Come for: breakfast or lunch
You should try: cinnamon roll, breakfast sandwich, classic burrito
Location: Blue Mountain Beach! Official address: 2217 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Have there not been enough desserts and bakeries on this list?! Blue Mountain Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
This quaint bakery is known for its world-famous cinnamon rolls. My family tried them, and we can confirm they’re good! The secret might just be in the frosting!!
Anyway, whether you’re craving avocado toast, spinach frittata or even a berry salad for lunch, this is a fantastic place to grab breakfast or lunch as you enjoy the beautiful surroundings of 30A.
14. LaCo
Come for: brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour
You should try: breakfast burrito, shrimp and grits, lobster quesadilla
Location: Seacrest! Official address: 10343 E County Hwy 30A, Seacrest, FL 32461
When you’re in the mood for something a little different, LaCo offers a taste of Latin American cuisine right in this beautiful stretch of Florida. This flavor shines in dishes like the Ribeye Asado, Coconut Snapper and Pork Belly Tacos.
I found LaCo to be very kid-friendly, with indoor and outdoor seating as well. Situated in the heart of Seacrest, this cute area is charming like many other 30A locations!
15. Local Catch
Come for: lunch and dinner
You should try: Grouper, Po Boys, tacos
Location: North of Blue Mountain Beach. Official address: 3711 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
After hearing that Local Catch is a sister company to Chanticleer Eatery, I knew we had to check this place out. And boy did it deliver!
Seafood lovers, rejoice! Local Catch is renowned for its fresh, local seafood dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for grilled fish, seafood tacos, or oysters, everything is sourced locally and prepared with care.
The relaxed vibe, live music and friendly service make it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a meal after a day at the beach.
16. Donut Hole
Come for: breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner
You should try: Belgian Waffle, Fried Chicken Sandwich
Location: multiple in Destin, Inlet Beach and Santa Rosa Beach
For those with a sweet tooth, the Donut Hole is a must-visit. This beloved bakery serves a wide array of donuts, pastries, and breakfast dishes, all before noon. But no worries, with all-day breakfast items plus lunch and dinner too, you can dine here most of the day!
If you want their famous bakery selection, come early because they do run out! From classic glazed donuts to inventive flavors like Key Lime filled donuts, apple spice crumb filled donuts, each treat is a delight. It’s the perfect spot to satisfy your dessert cravings or grab a hearty breakfast.
17. Nigel’s Bananas
Come for: dessert
You should try: Bonfire banana, Galaxy crunch ice cream – vegan-friendly, too
Location: Seaside! Official address: 124 Quincy Cir, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Last but certainly not least, Nigel’s Bananas offers a unique twist on dessert with their banana-based treats. You have your choice of frozen banana or ice cream, then add your topping. The possibilities are endless!
Although I’m not vegan, I appreciated the fact that the vegan dark chocolate plus nuts on a frozen banana is a great dessert along 30A for vegans!
Anyway, from dipped bananas to dipped ice cream, this spot is fun and quirky place and perfect for a light snack or a sweet treat on a hot day. It’s located in the quieter area of Seaside, which is nice to get away from all the foot traffic, too.
Best 30a restaurants
Whether you’re craving artisan bread or fresh acai bowls, this guide has something for every palate. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between, I hope you’ve enjoyed these top picks for restaurants in 30A Florida!
Let’s recap that list one more time, in a much more succinct fashion…
Best restaurants in 30A (a recap)
- Chanticleer Eatery
- Crackings
- Pickle’s Burger & Shake
- Mr. Gyro Hero
- Blue Mountain Beach Creamery
- Pazzo Italiano
- Black Bear Bread Company
- Playa Bowls
- North Beach Social
- The Perfect Pig
- Amigos 30A Mexican Kitchen
- Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs
- Blue Mountain Bakery
- LaCo
- Local Catch
- Donut Hole
- Nigel’s Bananas
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