The Happiest of Hours

In traveling to other states I found it appalling that some states have made happy hour illegal. Which is why Florida is such a great place to visit and Destin is one of the gems in its crown. Not only does the Destin area have some fantastic happy hours but they come with some super perks like beach views, locally sourced food and live music. There are too many too mention- which is exactly what you would expect of a town full of beach goers who have made relaxation an art- but here are a few of the local favorites.

First is the gastropub with three locations in the greater Destin locale- The Craft Bar. From 5-7 Monday thru Friday they feature $5 specialty cocktails and appetizers with unique ingredients and pretty original preparations- try the scorched earth which comes in a rosemary smoked glass which pairs well with the Gouda ham fritters. Plus, most of Craft Bar’s meat and veggies are locally sourced from organic farms which is kind on the conscience. Atmosphere wise, you’ll feel like you discovered an old brewery turned restaurant in a trendy Brooklyn borough.

Next is Pompano Joe’s which is a Caribbean inspired beach bar and grill in Miramar Beach.  Live music- sometimes a guitarist or two playing summertime hits or a fiddler and banjo duo set up next to the downstairs beach bar. Happy hour here at the beach includes $1.75 draft beers, $4 margaritas and 8$ for a ½ lb. of peel-and-eat shrimp among other tantalizing options. Finally, one of the Gulf Coast’s favorite bands entertains at a first-class happy hour event- Ruth Chris’ Courtyard on Wednesdays from 6-9 pm where $3 beer and $5.25 premium well drinks pair nicely with the musical stylings of Jones and Company.

Published on Monday, August 15, 2016