Dig into 30A's local favorites, from sizzling seafood to cheesy pizzas and crave‑worthy tacos.
Across every getaway spot, from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to the Outer Banks or Florida's Emerald Coast, local tips are priceless. And when they're about food and restaurants, they're even better.
If you're staying in the 30A area on your next vacation, you might be wondering which restaurants are local favorites, and you'll soon find out.
Here's a little something to spark your curiosity:
- Bud & Alley's Taco Bar: Mexican‑style tacos, burritos, and quesadillas served with breezy ocean views.
- The Shrimp Shack: Freshly steamed shrimp and lobster with outdoor seating and Gulf views.
- The Red Bar: Iconic 30A spot with quirky decor, live music, and fresh seafood classics.
- Farm and Fire Southern Pizzeria: Wood‑fired pizzas, shareable starters, and signature cocktails in a speakeasy vibe.
- Cowgirl Kitchen: Casual local favorite with shareable starters, tacos, sandwiches, and fun pizzas.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I'll share five of the best restaurants on 30A that are also local favorites, so you can enjoy outstanding food, a friendly atmosphere, and great service.
Let's dive in!
1. BUD & ALLEY'S TACO BAR
Mexican flavors with a beachy vibe.
Bud & Alley's Taco Bar is the go‑to spot for Mexican flavors with a beachy vibe. Join the locals and grab a seat on the patio, enjoy the ocean view, and dig into tacos, quesadillas, and burritos packed with flavor.
What Locals Love About It
- Oceanfront patio perfect for breezy, beachside meals.
- Quesadilla of the day with flavors that change daily.
- A wide taco selection: carnitas, chorizo, steak, shrimp, veggie, and chicken.
- Burritos loaded with your choice of protein and toppings.
- Fresh, flavorful food in a fun, casual setting.
2. THE SHRIMP SHACK
Freshly steamed shrimp, lobster, and Gulf views.
Seafood and the beach are the perfect combo, and The Shrimp Shack nails it. This 30A local favorite serves freshly steamed shrimp, lobster, and more, all while you take in gorgeous Gulf views. You can eat on the outdoor deck, relax on the screened porch, or grab a spot in the pavilion for a breezy meal by the water.
What Locals Love About It
- Freshly steamed seafood, from shrimp to lobster.
- Outdoor deck, screened porch, and pavilion with beach views.
- Great selection of wine and beer to pair with your meal.
- Desserts that locals say you shouldn't skip.
3. THE RED BAR
Quirky decor, live music, and a menu full of fresh seafood and hearty classics.
The Red Bar is one of 30A's most iconic spots for a fun night out with friends or family. Its quirky decor, live music, and menu full of fresh seafood and hearty classics set the scene. Even if you're visiting on your own, you can chat with friendly locals, linger a little longer, and enjoy a cold drink.
What Locals Love About It
- Eclectic, colorful decor that makes the vibe unforgettable.
- Live music that keeps the energy fun and lively.
- Fresh seafood favorites like daily fish, grouper, shrimp, and crawfish.
- Comfort dishes like baked eggplant, chicken, and manicotti.
- A full drink menu with beer on tap, wine, and signature cocktails.
4. FARM AND FIRE SOUTHERN PIZZERIA
Signature cocktails meet wood‑fired pizzas.
Bringing a cozy, old‑school speakeasy vibe to the 30A dining scene, Farm and Fire is where signature cocktails meet wood‑fired pizzas. Their shareable starters and hearty entrées are superb, and the pizzas and drinks make the perfect pairing for a fun, relaxed night out with the locals.
What Locals Love About It
- Signature cocktails that set the mood for the night.
- Stellar wood‑fired pizzas.
- Shareable starters like wings, roasted cauliflower, and meatballs.
- Savory entrées including sausage with peppers and onions or fresh fish.
- A unique, speakeasy‑style atmosphere perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.
5. COWGIRL KITCHEN
Tasty bites and a friendly vibe.
Cowgirl Kitchen is where 30A locals head when they're in the mood for tasty bites and a friendly vibe. Kick things off with shareable starters, then dive into hearty sandwiches, tacos, and pizzas packed with personality.
What Locals Love About It
- Queso, nachos, and spinach artichoke dip that are perfect for sharing.
- A mix of sandwiches, tacos, and entree salads for any craving.
- Creative pizzas like the Drunken Cowgirl, No Bull, and Uncorked.
- A friendly, casual vibe that keeps people coming back.
Bonus: How to Enjoy 30A Like a Local
- Start Your Morning with a Bike Ride: Hop on a cruiser or e‑bike and explore the Timpoochee Trail, which runs along 30A. Locals love this scenic ride past beaches, dune lakes, and colorful beach towns.
- Grab Breakfast at a Neighborhood Spot: Skip the big chains and head to cozy cafés or local bakeries. A coffee and fresh pastry by the water sets the tone for a relaxed day.
- Spend Time on the Water: Locals know the best views of 30A are from the water. Try paddleboarding or kayaking on the rare coastal dune lakes, or rent a pontoon boat for a chill day out.
- Explore Each Beach Community: Every town has its own vibe. Stroll through Seaside for its pastel cottages, browse shops in Grayton Beach, and enjoy the European‑style streets of Rosemary Beach.
- Time Your Day for Sunset: Evenings on 30A are all about slowing down. Find a quiet stretch of sand, bring a blanket, or grab a drink at a beachfront bar to watch the sky light up.
- Taste What the Locals Eat: Fresh Gulf seafood is a must. From shrimp tacos to grouper sandwiches, following the local dining trail makes every meal part of the adventure.
- Mix in Some Nature: Take a break from the beach and explore nearby state parks like Grayton Beach or Topsail Hill. Locals love the peaceful trails and wildlife spotting.
Wondering Where to Stay on the Emerald Coast
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!