Culinary Pioneer and Community Cornerstone: Chef Jim Shirley's Mission of Generosity

While many know Chef Jim Shirley as one of the most successful business owners in South Walton, few truly know the quiet, humble heart behind the apron. He doesn’t seek the spotlight for his generosity, but Jim is a cornerstone of our SoWal community, working tirelessly behind the scenes to lift up those around him.

Whether he is hosting events, making special appearances, or donating his time and resources to local nonprofits, Jim’s presence is woven into the very fabric of South Walton’s charitable spirit. He is the kind of leader who leads by example, offering help without fanfare. We are lucky to have his talent in the kitchen, but we are even more fortunate to have his character in our community.

Known throughout Walton County, Florida, as the owner of Great Southern Café, The C-Bar, 87 Plaza, and b.f.f. in Seaside’s Central Square, The Bay, Farm & Fire, and North Beach Social on Highway 331 South, co-owner of The Meltdown on 30A in Seaside’s Airstream Row, and co-founder of The Fish House in Pensacola, Chef Jim Shirley has been a pioneer and a celebrated figure of the Northwest Florida culinary scene for decades.

His love of great Southern-inspired food and basing menus around locally sourced ingredients has also led him to seats on the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s (FRLA) board, including the position of president, and he has shared Gulf Coast cuisine around the country through the James Beard Association, events with Florida’s governors, and promotional events in New York, Chicago, and more with Walton County Tourism. Through it all, Chef Jim and his team understand the importance of giving back to the community that supports their restaurants year after year.

“When you are just starting out, especially in a career as challenging as the food industry and opening brand-new restaurant concepts, engaging with the community is everything,” Chef Shirley says. “Your friends, family, neighbors, and those who become fans of your restaurants are the people who keep you going. So, once we reached the point we were able to really give back to our community through some of the fantastic nonprofits we have here in Walton County, Okaloosa County, Escambia County, and beyond, we started donating, setting up booths at their fundraisers, catering, and hosting them whenever we could.”

Today, with seven thriving locations in Walton County, the Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises team often takes time away from their regular services and schedules to support events with many area nonprofits. Among them are the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, the Underwater Museum of Art, Seaside School Foundation, FRLA, SAFE in the Panhandle, Embrace Florida Kids, Emeril Lagasse Foundation, The Alys Foundation, Seaside Institute, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, and many more.

One of the most recent events Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises supported, and a new one for the company, was Clays for a Cause, a skeet shooting event benefiting SAFE in the Panhandle. SAFE (Strategic Alliance to Fight Exploitation) is a nonprofit formed to fight and eradicate the exploitation and trafficking of children and other victims.

Chef Jim Shirley, Brother Jon Shirley and Brianna Anderson

“SAFE in the Panhandle is doing great work, and it was important for us to support their mission at their Clays for a Cause event in April,” says Jon Shirley, chief operating officer of Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises and brother of Chef Jim. “We’re always seeking new opportunities to support people who are helping our community’s children, whether it’s a new nonprofit or ones we’ve worked with for years.”

With five concepts based in the community of Seaside, Florida, of course, the Seaside Neighborhood School and Seaside School Foundation are an obvious fit for Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises to support each year. The team’s commitment to Seaside’s students includes supporting the annual Seaside School Half Marathon & 5K and Taste of the Race.

Embrace Florida Kids is another nonprofit near and dear to the Shirley family, as Jim and Jon’s sister, Kim Stagner, has served on its board for several years. Embrace Florida Kids works to provide “homes, healing, and hope to vulnerable children and struggling families on both ends of the neglect, abuse, and abandonment spectrum.” In addition to donating to its events, Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises has hosted Embrace Florida Kids gatherings at Farm & Fire in South Walton.

“Our area is blessed to have so many incredible nonprofits doing great work,” says Chef Jim. “We want to continue giving back to them, especially the ones that support area children and the arts, and are grateful to be able to do that thanks to all the people, locals and visitors alike, who dine in our restaurants and make our area such a great place to live and work.”

Visit ChefJimShirley.com to learn more about all restaurant locations and upcoming events.

Located in Seaside, Florida, The Great Southern Café offers a unique twist on traditional Southern cuisine. Helmed by Chef Jim Shirley, this popular eatery boasts a varied menu featuring dishes inspired by the flavors of the Gulf Coast. Diners can expect an inviting atmosphere complemented by a selection of scrumptious options, including renowned Southern classics and contemporary culinary creations. It's a perfect spot for both locals and visitors seeking a satisfying meal in a charming seaside setting.

The Bay, in Santa Rosa Beach at the doorstep of South Walton, combines stunning waterfront views with a menu that celebrates Southern Gulf Coast cuisine and fresh local seafood. This vibrant restaurant offers a casual family-friendly dining experience, featuring outdoor seating on a deck that overlooks Choctawhatchee Bay. Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes, from grilled shrimp with creamy grits to inventive sushi rolls, while enjoying live local music and a robust selection of drinks, including craft cocktails and a rotating 12-draft beer system.

Farm & Fire, next door to The Bay on the water, is a gathering place where the community comes together to enjoy flavorful seasonal dishes inspired by the local fare. Located in Santa Rosa Beach, this restaurant prioritizes a convivial dining experience, encouraging patrons to share food and ideas. The menu showcases a variety of shareable plates and includes an extensive drinks selection featuring craft cocktails and local beers. With a warm, inviting ambiance and an emphasis on fresh ingredients, it's a fantastic spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Nestled under Farm & Fire, North Beach Social is a laid-back spot with inside seating with incredible views (don't miss the sunset!), and outdoor tables right on its own white-sand beach, that captures the essence of beachside living in Santa Rosa Beach. With a focus on relaxed dining, the menu features favorites from other Jim Shirley restaurants, such as the famous Grits a Ya Ya and delicious poke bowls. Ideal for families, patrons can enjoy the beach area while savoring refreshing drinks during happy hour or delicious dishes throughout the day.

Set in a vintage Airstream trailer on 30A in Seaside, The Meltdown On 30A specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. This casual eatery focuses on fun, flavorful “flip-flop cuisine” perfect for families and beachgoers. From traditional to inventive grilled cheese options, supported by homemade ingredients, it’s a must-visit for those looking to enjoy comfort food with a twist. The outdoor café seating provides a welcoming environment, making it an ideal stop for a quick bite after a day at the beach.

87 Plaza offers an elegant dining experience in Seaside, with a beautiful outdoor patio and a sophisticated menu. Known for its pairing of fine wines and culinary art, the restaurant showcases a variety of dishes including sushi and other upscale seafood options. This destination is perfect for those seeking a stylish atmosphere and high-quality dining, with each meal designed to celebrate the freshness and richness of local ingredients. The chic setting, with white tables adorned in sophisticated décor, makes it a prime choice for a romantic dinner or special celebration.