Looking for a Great Bite?
Dining Throughout Walton County
Address
400 East Nelson Avenue; DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433
Phone
(850) 610-8849
Hours
Mon-Sat 9am-10pm; Sun 9am-4pm
Website
June’s Featured Restaurant
Cafe’ Nola
The new Cafe’ Nola invokes excitement and incredible nightlife while presenting the flavors, sights, and smells of the Caribbean and New Orleans. Reminiscent of Rick’s Cafe in Casablanca, the restaurant delight patrons for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a robust selection of custom drinks and an adjacent Bourbon Street Lounge.
This delightful experience is under the leadership of Chef Ernie. He has been cooking his entire life with his mother and grandmother teaching him all of the family Cajun Recipes – Gumbo, Etouffee, Bienville, and their family Famous Chicken and Andouille Sausage Jambalaya! Chef Ernie has also worked with some of the best names in the area – including Chan Cox, Jim Altramura, AJ Tusa, and Mike Abadie to name a few.
Cafe’ Nola adjoins the historic Hotel DeFuniak. Built in the 1920s as a Masonic lodge, this charming and stately structure has been transformed into the romantic jewel of the Winter Chautauqua. Recently rated at “One of Florida’s Top Ten Bed & Breakfast Inns,” the rooms are recently remodeled and ready to help you relax!
Located in the heart of DeFuniak Springs’ Historic District, Chef Ernie invites you to dine and lodge with Cafe’ Nola and Hotel DeFuniak!
Visit Our Local Restaurants!
From Gulf-front bistros to mom-and-pop diners nestled in pine woods, Walton County serves up rich flavors from beach to backroad. Whether you’re visiting the famed 30A corridor or exploring lesser-known northern communities, this guide highlights 30 must-try restaurants across all corners of Walton County.
Scenic 30A & South Walton (Beachside Favorites)
- Basmati’s Asian Cuisine (Blue Mountain Beach)
Asian-fusion in a coastal cottage—popular for sushi and stir-fries. - Borago (Grayton Beach)
Rustic Italian cuisine and craft cocktails in a chic, tucked-away spot. - Cafe Thirty-A (Seagrove Beach)
A polished spot for fine dining with signature seafood dishes and award-winning wine. - Chanticleer Eatery (Grayton Beach)
Southern comfort meets modern flair. Known for shrimp & grits and house-smoked meats. - Great Southern Cafe (Seaside)
A Southern fusion favorite. Their Grits à Ya Ya is legendary. - The Perfect Pig (Seagrove & Gulf Place)
Casual yet upscale, offering pork medallions, gourmet breakfast, and baked goods. - Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar (Rosemary Beach)
Upscale rooftop views with craft cocktails, tapas-style seafood, and a stunning ambiance. - The Red Bar (Grayton Beach)
Iconic for its quirky décor, live music, and crab cakes. Expect a wait—and a memorable experience. - Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar (Gulf Place/Santa Rosa Beach)
Fresh oysters and sunset views—don’t miss the crab and corn chowder. - Stinky’s Fish Camp (Dune Allen Beach)
Beloved for its quirky vibe and Cajun-style seafood platters.
Freeport & North Walton (Local Gems & Country Favorites)
- Abide Coffee Company (Freeport)
A favorite for sandwiches, lattes, and brunch with fresh, local ingredients. - The Bay (South of Freeport, off Hwy 331)
A coastal-casual restaurant with sushi, seafood, and live music right on the Choctawhatchee Bay. - Bayou Bill’s Crab House (Freeport, near 331 Bridge)
Rustic seafood joint with alligator tail, king crab, and hearty portions. - 4C BBQ (Defuniak Springs, Hwy. 331)
BBQ plates, margaritas & beer served in easygoing, country-style digs with a patio & weekly karaoke.
- Cafe Nola (Freeport)
Real-deal Louisiana cooking—crawfish etouffee, po’boys, and homemade bread pudding. - Ed’s Restaurant (DeFuniak Springs / Hwy 90)
Old-school, no-frills spot with hefty burgers, fried chicken & milkshakes, plus takeout. - El Jacalito Mexican Restaurant (Freeport)
A casual favorite for sizzling fajitas, street tacos, and strong margaritas. - The Oar House and Oyster Bar (Freeport)
Waterfront dining with fresh-caught specials and Southern seafood classics. - Royal Palm Grille (Miramar Beach / just east of county line)
Though just across the border, it’s worth a visit for sushi and seafood with a panoramic view.
DeFuniak Springs (Historic North Walton Dining)
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Ed’s Restaurant
A no-frills classic serving breakfast, burgers, and fried chicken since the ‘50s. -
Holi Indian Cuisine
A standout for authentic Indian fare including chicken tikka, biryani, and vegan options. - Iron and Grape Italian Kitchen
Has outdoor seating and a private dining room · Serves great cocktails -
Perla Baking Co.
A cozy café and bakery offering croissants, quiche, espresso drinks, and gourmet pastries. -
Rad Dad’s – It’s Not Just Pizza
Locally loved for its giant New York-style slices, subs, and garlic knots. -
La Rumba Mexican Restaurant
A local staple for family-style Mexican cuisine and generous margaritas. - Sweet Southern Comfort
American offerings such as fried green tomatoes and shrimp scampi star at this casual restaurant with a kids’ menu.
Off the Beaten Path (Hidden Culinary Treasures)
- Black Bear Bread Co. – Grayton Beach (Flagship)
A bakery-café and coffee house with artisan breads, tartines, and house-roasted coffee—worth the detour. - Fannin’s (Highway 83 North)
Family-friendly spot with a relaxed atmosphere offering an all-you-can-eat buffet of comfort foods. - Morrison Springs Country Store & Deli (Ponce de Leon area)
Stop here after a spring dive for classic deli sandwiches and hand-scooped ice cream. -
Nick’s Seafood Restaurant (Basin Bayou)
Old Florida fish camp offering fresh mullet, crab claws, and rustic charm. - Red Bay Grocery (Red Bay)
Part general store, part café. Come for the fried chicken, Southern veggies, and small-town hospitality. - Simply Good BBQ (West of Defuniak Springs)
Wood-smoked barbecue in a roadside joint beloved by locals. Brisket and ribs are a must. -
3Sons Bar-B-Q (Dune Allen, tucked away from 30A)
Pulling elements from Georgia, the Carolinas, Memphis, & Texas they smoke all their meats on off-set smokers from primitive pits.
Final Thoughts
From elegant waterfront dinners to charming rural diners, Walton County’s food scene offers way more than just scenic views. It’s a deliciously diverse experience reflecting Florida’s Southern roots, Gulf Coast bounty, and small-town charm.
Whether you’re road-tripping through the pines of North Walton or beach-hopping along 30A, be sure to arrive hungry.
FAQ
How Could I submit a Restaurant?
Visit our Contact page if you’re interested in submitting a restaurant! Be sure to include the name, address, and a brief summary of the restaurant’s offerings!
Could I request a featured restaurant?
Absolutely! If you think a restaurant has gone above and beyond feel free to contact us with the reason why! We would love to review the restaurant. If you’re a business owner and want to invite us to visit your restaurant let us know too!