May 30, 2006
Apalachicola: Historic Waterfront Seafood Community
Where the Apalachicola River meets the bay and the quiet beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, sits the tiny town of Apalachicola, on what is known as Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Visitors can stroll along the wide tree-lined streets with historic Victorian homes shaded by live oaks and Spanish moss and appreciate the “old Florida” history that Apalachicola has to offer. If you are looking for a place with a taste of Florida's Gulf Coast and plenty of charm, Apalachicola may be just what you’ve been searching for.
Apalachicola was laid out with streets and parks after Philadelphia, the model city of its time, in 1835. As in Philadelphia, Apalachicola's plan fashioned the town in a rectangular manner with an open square located near each of its four corners and a larger square at the town's center. Wharf lots were laid out along the Apalachicola River, with warehouse, commercial, and residential blocks beyond.
In the 1830s Apalachicola became the third largest port because of the cotton trade before the War Between the States, and after the cotton bust, turned to sponges, timber, and shrimping. It now harvests 90 percent of the oysters consumed in Florida and 10 percent of the nation’s oyster supply. The harvesting of shrimp, blue crab and finfish also plays a major role in Apalachicola's economy. The waters surrounding Apalachicola are among the cleanest and purist in the world. From these pristine waters comes delicious prized seafood, some of the best in the state.
Apalachicola is oyster, shrimp and seafood heaven. Whether you are looking for delicious gourmet cuisine or casual fare like oysters, Apalachicola has an array of excellent restaurants in breathtaking locations. Many local restaurants overlook the beautiful Apalachicola River and Bay, while others are tucked away in Apalachicola's historic downtown. Try one of the favorites listed below.
Apalachicola Seafood Grill and Steakhouse
100 Market Street
Apalachicola
Since 1903, the Apalachicola Seafood Grill has been a “must stop” for generations of visitors to the Forgotten Coast. Located under the only traffic signal in Historic Downtown, their specialty is the world’s largest fried fish sandwich. The Grill prides itself on serving only local seafood and they feature wonderful fried shrimp and oyster po’boys. The Grill is home to the famous "Ulee's Gold" margarita, so named for the 1997 film starring Peter Fonda. A scene from the movie was filmed in one corner of the restaurant. The key ingredient in Ulee's Gold margarita is the tasty Tupelo honey found only in Northwest Florida. The Grill is a recipient of the prestigious Florida Living Magazine’s “Fine Dining Award.” The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and is closed on Sundays.
Papa Joe’s Oyster Bar and Grill
301 B Market Street
Apalachicola
The local saying here is that “If you ain’t been to Papa Joe’s Oyster Bar and Grill, you ain’t been to Apalachicola.” This waterfront dining restaurant is just slightly off the beaten path, situated on the Apalachicola River with a relaxing waterfront view. Papa Joe’s offers an array of fresh local seafood and steaks on their menu, as well as a full oyster bar. Overall there are around 80 different appetizers, salads, sandwiches, sides, oysters, baskets and entrees to choose from! Papa Joe's Oyster Bar and Grill located on the banks of Scipio Creek at Scipio Creek Marina three blocks west of the blinking light in Apalachicola. Open 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Boss Oyster
123 Water Street
Apalachicola
The motto of this landmark dockside eatery is "Shut Up and Shuck." This is a great place in Florida to try the delicious Florida oysters under a dozen toppings ranging from capers to crabmeat. Boss Oyster also features steamed shrimp and delicious po'boy sandwiches. Try sitting on the porch along the docks on a beautiful summer day enjoying the blue sky, gently flowing river and nature at your feet. Boss Oyster is located right on the water, with unbeatable atmosphere and food. Boss Oyster was recognized as one of Coastal Living Magazine’s Top 10 Oyster Bars in 2004. Boss Oyster is open for lunch and dinner.
Avenue Sea at the Gibson Inn
51 Avenue C
Apalachicola
The Historic Gibson Inn’s Restaurant has a new face and a new name. Owners David and Ryanne Carrier have created a dining experience that is unique to the Panhandle. The distinctive style and menu format are what sets Avenue Sea apart from your average seafood restaurant. The menu is constantly evolving and it features dishes in small portions so guests are able to sample the many tastes of the sea. Their motto is to serve only fresh local seafood from nearby waters taking advantage of the bountiful treasures of the Apalachicola River and Gulf of Mexico. A few favorite ingredients include fresh crabs, bay flounder, scallops, oysters, shrimp and pompano. Avenue Sea is open for breakfast daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., for lunch Friday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and dinner seven days a week from 5:30 to10 p.m..
For more information on Florida seafood and restaurants in Apalachicola,
visit www.FL-Seafood.com.
For information on visiting the “Forgotten Coast” visit Apalachicola Chamber of Commerce’s web site at www.apalachicolabay.org.
For more information about the history of Apalachicola visit
www.fl-seafood.com/apalachicola.htm.
For more information:
Nicole Haugdahl
(850) 488-0163
haugdan@doacs.state.fl.us
