Coastal Cowgirl Now Open in Navarre: A Fresh Take on Farm-to-Table Dining
The vibrant community of Navarre has welcomed a new culinary gem: Coastal Cowgirl. This fast-casual, farm-to-table restaurant has transformed the former Copper Bull location into a lively gathering space that promises to elevate the local dining scene. With a focus on fresh ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, Coastal Cowgirl is set to become a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.
A New Beginning in a Familiar Space
Located at 7279 Navarre Parkway, Coastal Cowgirl is the brainchild of part-owners Ashley Moss, Ryan Matthiesen, and Mario Guzman. The trio has taken the reins of the former western-themed restaurant and reimagined it as a multifaceted dining destination. The new establishment features not only a restaurant but also a coffee shop, a pressed juice bar, and a beer and wine bar, all complemented by an outdoor dining area, event space, a children’s play area, and even a dog park.
Moss expressed their desire to maximize the potential of the space, stating, “We wanted to make the most of what we could offer the Navarre community.” This vision is evident in the restaurant’s layout, which encourages socializing and relaxation, whether patrons choose to dine in or grab a quick meal through the drive-thru.
Nourishing Meals with Local Flair
At Coastal Cowgirl, the emphasis is on nourishing meals crafted from clean, wholesome ingredients. The menu is a delightful blend of brunch items, barbecue sandwiches, salads, and Southern snacks, all designed to cater to a variety of tastes. Moss and her team are committed to sourcing ingredients from local farms and bakers, ensuring that every dish is as fresh as possible.
For instance, guests can enjoy hand-pressed nut milk in their lattes, freshly squeezed orange juice in their mimosas, and hand-formed biscuits slathered with local honey butter. Moss noted, “We just had fun with it. We’re doing this at home. We should do this for other people, right?”
A Personal Touch to the Menu
Moss’s passion for Southern flavors shines through in the menu, particularly in the barbecue offerings. Having previously operated a mobile smokehouse, Smokin’ Spencer’s Q, in St. Augustine, she is confident that their mouthwatering brisket and juicy chicken sandwiches will resonate with the Navarre crowd.
The inspiration for the menu also stems from personal experiences. After her family faced health challenges, including cancer diagnoses, Moss became more mindful of their eating habits. The menu reflects this journey, featuring dishes like crockpot oats made with organic ingredients, which were a staple for her mother during recovery. “We like to say you’re eating healthy without even realizing it,” Moss explained, emphasizing the absence of preservatives and artificial ingredients.
A Marketplace for Local Goods
In addition to its restaurant offerings, Coastal Cowgirl serves as a small marketplace for local grocery goods. Patrons can shop for farm-fresh eggs, local honey, and homemade sourdough bread. The owners also plan to grow hydroponic lettuces on-site, further connecting the restaurant to the local agricultural community. Future plans include hosting a farmer’s market in their parking lot, providing even more access to fresh, homegrown produce.
A Community-Centric Vision
Moss’s move to Navarre was motivated by her husband’s job, but it quickly evolved into a passion project aimed at filling gaps in the local dining scene. With years of experience in the restaurant industry, including opening major national chains, Moss is excited to bring her vision to life in a more personal setting. “We’ve had some experience, and now we’re ready to do it in our small community,” she said.
The restaurant is designed to be a gathering place for friends and family, with plans for “backyard barbecue” style events featuring live music, children’s activities, and a dog-friendly environment. Moss is also looking to introduce rotating dinner specials, ensuring that there’s always something new for customers to enjoy.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
The design of Coastal Cowgirl reflects its mission to create a welcoming environment. With pastel pinks, floral accents, and a striking mural that reads “cowgirls are made of dust & diamonds,” the space is both inviting and Instagram-worthy. Moss noted, “We thought there should be a lovely place for the ladies,” while still offering sports, good drinks, and barbecue for everyone to enjoy.
Currently, Coastal Cowgirl operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Monday, with plans to expand hours to cater to early morning military personnel and late-night diners. For real-time updates, patrons can follow Coastal Cowgirl on social media.
Must-Try Menu Items
When visiting Coastal Cowgirl, be sure to sample some of their standout menu items:
- Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit: A house-made biscuit topped with a cracker-crusted chicken cutlet and local honey butter. ($7)
- Brisket Sandwich: Slow-cooked brisket served on a homemade bun, paired with a side of lemon herb potato salad for an extra $3. ($17)
- Chicken Salad: A creamy Southern classic served atop house lettuce or a locally made croissant. ($11)
- BBQ Ranch Salad: A hearty salad with a mix of house greens, tomatoes, onions, and more, served with barbecue sauce and house-made ranch dressing. Add grilled chicken for $5. ($11-$16)
- Beat The Heat Juice: A refreshing cold-pressed juice made with beet, carrot, green apple, parsley, ginger, and lime.
Conclusion
Coastal Cowgirl is more than just a restaurant; it’s a community hub that celebrates local flavors and fosters connections among residents. With its commitment to fresh, healthy food and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s poised to become a beloved destination in Navarre. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to gather with friends and family, Coastal Cowgirl has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this exciting addition to the local dining scene!