RESTAURANTS TO TRY:

The Pearl Restaurant

Description: Located inside The Pearl Hotel, this upscale restaurant offers elegant coastal cuisine with a refined atmosphere. They serve fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and seasonal dishes, making it an ideal spot for a holiday dinner or brunch.

Specialty: Try their fresh seafood dishes or enjoy their signature cocktails and seasonal menu options. The Pearl also features a cozy ambiance with a fireplace, perfect for the winter season.

Hours: Open daily, with special holiday events and themed menus often offered in December.

Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar

Description: Pescado offers stunning views of the Gulf and a chic, modern setting. Known for its fresh seafood and excellent cocktails, this rooftop bar and restaurant is a great spot for a sunset dinner. In December, the warm, indoor dining area provides a cozy retreat from the cooler temperatures.

Specialty: Fresh oysters, seafood pasta, and the signature Pescado cocktail.

Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner, with brunch offerings on weekends.

Café 30-A

Description: A Rosemary Beach favorite, Café 30-A offers a cozy, upscale dining experience with a menu full of Southern-inspired dishes. It's known for both its relaxed atmosphere and exceptional service. Perfect for a more casual but delicious meal.

Specialty: Southern seafood dishes, as well as classic steak options. Their crab cakes and shrimp and grits are crowd favorites.

Hours: Open daily for dinner. They may offer special holiday hours or events in December.

La Crema Tapas & Chocolate

Description: If you're in the mood for something a little different, La Crema offers Spanish-style tapas and a variety of chocolate-inspired desserts. The intimate, warm setting is perfect for a cozy, romantic meal, especially during the cooler December evenings.

Specialty: Tapas like chorizo, seafood paella, and chocolate fondue. Their chocolate-based desserts are a must-try.

Hours: Open daily, including dinner and dessert.

Wild Olives Wine Bar & Bistro

Description: Wild Olives is a wonderful spot for wine lovers, offering a selection of wines from around the world along with a menu full of Mediterranean-inspired small plates and entrees. The warm, rustic ambiance makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day or to enjoy a more intimate dinner during the holiday season.

Specialty: Wine pairings with tapas-style dishes such as bruschetta, flatbreads, and a variety of cheeses.

Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner, offering wine tastings and pairing options.

Amavida Coffee & Tea *Haley's favorite coffee spot*

Description: This local coffee shop is ideal for grabbing a warm drink on a chilly day. Offering organic coffee, artisanal teas, and light bites, Amavida is a cozy spot to relax before or after wedding festivities.

Specialty: Organic coffee blends, teas, and light breakfast options like pastries and quiche.

Hours: Open daily, serving coffee and light breakfast items.

Cowgirl Kitchen *one of our favs*

Description: Cowgirl Kitchen offers a fun, casual atmosphere with a Southwestern-inspired menu featuring fresh and flavorful dishes. Whether you're grabbing breakfast or dinner, this spot has a great variety of options to choose from.

Specialty: Breakfast burritos, tacos, and Southwest-inspired comfort food.

Hours: Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Sugar Shak

Description: A local favorite for sweet treats, The Sugar Shak is a charming spot where you can indulge in candy, ice cream, and baked goods. Perfect for grabbing a post-meal dessert or stocking up on holiday treats.

Specialty: Ice cream, milkshakes, and a variety of fun candy and desserts.

Hours: Open daily, with extended hours in the evening for dessert.

Shades Bar & Grill

Description: A laid-back, sports bar-style restaurant offering a relaxed setting for drinks and casual eats. With a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot for grabbing a drink with friends or family after a wedding event.

Specialty: Burgers, seafood baskets, and drinks with a view.

Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner.