Sip Away: South Walton's Top Cocktails

Looking to celebrate a special occasion – or just kick back and relax after an active day at the beach?

In either case, treat yourself to a creative or classic cocktail offered at one of South Walton’s many acclaimed restaurants. Learn more about some top cocktails below, and toast to a perfect Florida beach vacation.

The CITIZEN - Andiamo!!

Delivering inventive cocktails and cuisine within a lively, design-forward atmosphere, The CITIZEN in Alys Beach draws inspiration from around the world while celebrating the sense of community at the heart of South Walton. Embodying that worldly sense of adventure, the Andiamo!! cocktail (Italian for “here we go!!”) – crafted with prosecco, vodka, Aperol, candied orange, citrus and rosé syrup – is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar - Pescado 76

With panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and a list of specialty cocktails to choose from, Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar in Rosemary Beach is the perfect place to take in South Walton’s gorgeous sunsets. A creative twist on a classic, the Pescado 76 pairs citrus vodka with St. Germain, basil, lemon and Cava – and the result is positively refreshing. Settle in for dinner post-sunset and sample delicious seafood dishes like the Chef’s Ceviche, Pepper Crusted Tuna or Pan Seared Diver Scallops.

Great Southern Café - Original Mojito

As a past Grand Champion in the Cocktail category of the Perfect in South Walton Awards, this drink is a must-try. The Original Mojito at Great Southern Café in Seaside is a fresh concoction made with muddled mint leaves and tangy lime juice. However, you could also opt for a flavored mojito like mango or guava-pineapple, both of which are also made with fresh fruit. Check out their daily happy hour from 3-5 p.m. – voted “Best Happy Hour” in the 2021 Perfect in South Walton Awards.

Café Thirty-A - Martini

With 14 different martinis on the menu, Café Thirty-A in Seagrove is a place that takes this classic cocktail seriously. Stick to the Traditional Martini and garnish with your choice of queen olives, bleu cheese-stuffed olives or Holland onions. Or change things up with the French Martini, made with vodka, blueberry, pineapple juice and a lemon twist. Better yet, live dangerously with the James Bond Martini, with gin, vodka, Lillet and a lemon twist. Be sure and stick around for dinner, as this beloved restaurant was voted the Diamond winner in the “Best Fine Dining” category of the 2021 Perfect in South Walton Awards.

Cantina Laredo - Casa Rita Margarita

Choose from a comprehensive menu of margaritas at Cantina Laredo, located at Grand Boulevard in Miramar Beach. Keep it simple with the classic Casa Rita #1, made with blanco tequila and fresh-squeezed lemon and lime juices, or spice it up with the Cucumber Chili Rita featuring silver tequila, Cointreau, cucumber, jalapeño, agave and lime juice. Cool off with a refreshing Mi Casa Ranch Water made with blanco tequila, fresh lime juice and Topo Chico. The opportunities are endless!

Stinky’s Fish Camp - The Ultimate Bloody Mary

The Ultimate Bloody Mary at Stinky’s Fish Camp in Dune Allen is more than just a drink — it’s a work of art. Order one up at brunch and see what special garnishes your bartender includes. You won't have to settle for a single celery stalk, that’s for sure. Specialties like pickled okra, green beans, lemon, Old Bay seasoning and shrimp are known to decorate glasses, too.

Hungry for more? Click here to dive into the South Walton culinary scene, where more than 200 restaurants – from fine dining, waterfront gems to casual, funky finds – are waiting to be discovered.