Cozy Spots for Food and Drinks in South Walton

Many of our favorite spot in SoWal are big and boisterous, especially during busy season. But we also think it's fun to find local spots with cozy seating areas - places where you can relax in South Walton. Here is our latest SoWal List which has a few of our favorite local spots that will make the transition from gathering on the beach to gathering off the shoreline a little easier and a lot more fun.
 

 Bud & Alley's Pizza Bar in Seaside simply brings people together. It's nestled in the dunes right beside the Gulf at the foot of the Seaside Obelisk. The iconic structure's official name is the Coleman Pavilion but locals call it the Obe. One of our favorite spots is on the Terrace, an open-air dining area right next to the Obe. Gourmet pizzas of Uovo, San Marzano, Felino Salami and other offerings of antipasti, cured meats and cheeses, seafood, insalata, vegetables, pasta and desserts are just some of the items to enjoy at Pizza Bar.
 
"On our outdoor terrace we do a lot of rehearsal dinners and receptions. The tables are coffee table height and seating offers a lot of cushions," says manager Joe Beane.
 
The Gathering Spot & Sushi Bar inside the Inn at WaterColor Inn & Resort has a beach-house feeling that everyone loves, but the dark rich colors invoke the feeling of autumn. Cozy wicker club-style chairs gather closely around small tables for intimate groups. And if intimate isn't what you have in mind, there is a large screen television for games! Live music is featured every Monday night during happy hour, which runs from 5 - 6 p.m. daily and features sushi and drink specials. The Gathering Spot is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and sushi is featured after 5 p.m.
 
"The Gathering Spot features an extensive sushi and small plates menu to enjoy in our lounge atmosphere or outside along one of our fire pits. Cocktails featuring house made spirits and mixes and a high-end wine list complete the experience,” says manager Tony Liartis.
 

 Louis Louis Restaurant and Bar in Santa Rosa is located on Mussett Bayou Road and that's the perfect address for the funky atmosphere. Some call it Red Bar north, with a bit more emphasis on fine food. Strings of cocktail lights and a fabulous accumulation of random art and objects put you quickly in the spirit of fun, while the brick patio is more reminiscent of a hidden courtyard in New Orleans. This place is home to regulars who enjoy discovering the beer of the month. Nightly specials range from Panne Chicken to Shrimp and Crawfish Pasta.
 
"People love gathering around our real wood burning fire pit, especially our friends from up north. Louis Louis is the perfect place to hang out with a toddy," says owner Kyle Petit. 
 
Find more great places, rate, and comment in the SoWal Dining Guide.