A gorgeous master-planned community in Walton County, FL, WaterColor is a haven for those who crave the laid-back coastal lifestyle. Known for its striking, Southern-inspired architecture, WaterColor offers access to delicious restaurants and amazing attractions. Those who live in the community can enjoy various upscale amenities, including tennis courts, private parks, a well-appointed pool, and a premium fitness center. WaterColor also offers excellent dining options, including gourmet eateries and casual pizza joints. These restaurants around WaterColor, Fla., are sure to satisfy — no matter what your tastebuds crave.
1. The Wine Bar
1735 E County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Discover sophisticated dining and an extensive wine list at The Wine Bar, located on scenic road 30A. There's plenty of seating at The Wine Bar, including spacious patios and a relaxed dining room. This expansive area makes The Wine Bar a perfect stop for celebrating special events or occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries. The menus are equally impressive, with dining options that include fire-roasted pizzas, gourmet cheese plates, savory flatbreads, and wedge salads. Make sure to select a glass or two from the wine menu, which features dozens of beverages from local wineries for the perfect accompaniment to your meal. Their happy hour is one of the best in the area, running every day from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. During happy hour, you’ll be able to get a carafe for the price of a large glass, a truly unbeatable offering.
2. FOOW — Fish Out of Water
34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
This WaterColor hotspot serves locally sourced cuisine, so you can always feel good about what you're eating. The atmosphere is family-friendly and fun, perfect for bringing a large group, but it's also a popular stop for after-dinner cocktails. From brunch and lunch to dinner, any time is perfect to visit FOOW. If you have a special event and need a large space to celebrate, check out FOOW's private dining beachfront options, which include access to an optional wine cellar full of gourmet wines.
3. Scratch Biscuit Kitchen
1777 East County Highway 30A Suite 120, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Scratch Biscuit Kitchen's motto is "baked with care and served up square." That charm and fun encapsulate the restaurant's essence, which is best known for its handmade, buttery biscuits. Located in Watercolor Town Center, Scratch Biscuit Kitchen serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch. While the biscuits are undoubtedly the star of the show, the fillings are also quite remarkable. There's something to suit every taste at this inviting restaurant, including delectable meat options like bacon and ham and handmade jellies and jams.
4. Pizza by the Sea
88 Watercolor Way, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Sometimes, all you want is a fabulous slice of pizza. You can find that and more at Pizza by the Sea, an Italian-inspired restaurant that has become a local favorite. Pizza by the Sea serves pizza and other hearty favorites, including cheesy bread, pepperoni rolls, fresh salads, pasta, and sandwiches.
If you're on a low-carb journey or want to enjoy all your favorite pizza toppings without the crust, check out the "yum bowls," customizable bowls full of toppings, sauce, and cheese. The "Kickin' Chicken" is a particular favorite, made with grilled chicken, basil pesto, bacon, feta cheese, red onions, and fresh mozzarella. Pizza by the Sea also has plenty to appeal to children, with the restaurant's "Very Happy Meals" that are perfectly sized for smaller appetites.
5. Bud & Alley's
2236 East County Road 30A, Seaside, FL
Enjoy beautiful views and delicious food at Bud & Alley's, conveniently located in Seaside. Family-owned and operated, Bud & Alley's is known locally as South Walton's most established eatery. The restaurant has a low-key vibe, perfect for families with children. You can eat any time of the day at Bud & Alley's.
Discover flavorful favorites like their Smoked Tuna Dip (locals know it’s the best you’ll find on 30A). The Bud & Alley’s Crab Cake comes with mixed greens and lemon butter and will have you delighting in every bite. Don’t miss the sweet potato fries, served with dijon mayo.
6. The Great Southern Cafe
83 Central Square, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Serving what is affectionately known as "new-fashioned Southern cuisine," the Great Southern Cafe is a Seaside staple. Just minutes from WaterColor this hot-spot is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This restaurant is laid-back and inviting, with menus that showcase the best of Florida's fresh catch. The Great Southern Cafe’s happy hour runs every day from 3-5 p.m. and serves half-off cocktails. At a place known for their incredible varieties of Mojitos, that deal is unmissable.
Everything on the menu features a Southern twist, including crab cakes, fried green tomatoes, and delicious "soul rolls," made with chicken, collard greens, crisp wrapper, peach chutney, and Creole mustard-horseradish. Indulge in the rich, delectable sides, including smoked gouda cheese grits, black-eyed peas, fried okra, and sweet potato fries. No matter what you choose to order, the friendly service, great views, and bustling atmosphere will entice you — perfect for visitors and long-term residents alike.
Come home to WaterColor with Tanika O'Brien
WaterColor is an oasis in Florida that offers something for everyone, including peaceful beaches, scenic parks, and a neighborly atmosphere. These restaurants around WaterColor, FL, are perfect for any occasion or event, whether you're looking for a low-key breakfast before starting your day or planning a fun night out with family and friends.
If you want to settle in WaterColor, you need the services of an experienced realtor. Tanika O'Brien is a talented Florida real estate agent with over a decade of experience buying and selling luxury real estate. Finding your dream home on the Emerald Coast can be a breeze when you work with Tanika and her brilliant team. Contact The Tanika O’Brien Group today to learn more about how to start your search for a WaterColor or Seaside home!