Emerald Waterfront Bar and Grill: A New Culinary Gem in Navarre
On a sun-kissed Sunday, the Emerald Waterfront Bar and Grill opened its doors to the public, welcoming over 500 eager attendees to its grand opening celebration. Located at 8491 Navarre Parkway, this new dining destination promises to be a vibrant addition to the Navarre Sound waterfront, offering a unique blend of culinary delights and community engagement.
A Taste of What’s to Come
Visitors to the grand opening were treated to a delightful experience that included oyster samples and craft beer tastings, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and local flavors. As renovations continue, attendees were given a sneak peek of the restaurant’s innovative menu, which aims to reflect the rich culinary heritage of the Gulf Coast. The event fostered a sense of community, allowing locals to mingle with the dedicated staff of Emerald, reinforcing the restaurant’s mission to be a welcoming space for all.
A New Chapter for Emerald Republic Brewery
Emerald Waterfront Bar and Grill is the latest venture from Tommy Gialamas, who recently acquired the former Grillehouse. Under his ownership, the restaurant is being transformed into a lively venue that will feature live music, delicious food, and stunning waterfront views. Gialamas’s vision is clear: to create a space that not only serves exceptional meals but also becomes a beloved gathering spot for the Navarre community.
Assistant Manager Madi Arnold emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “We try to get as personal and as involved with locals as we can. Without the locals, we wouldn’t be anywhere.” This sentiment resonates throughout the restaurant’s ethos, as it aims to build strong connections with its patrons.
A Unique Dining Experience
Emerald Waterfront offers two distinct dining areas, catering to a variety of tastes and occasions. The first area features an elevated dining experience with tablecloths and a menu that highlights upscale entrees, including hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood. The second area embraces a more casual beach atmosphere, perfect for enjoying handheld sandwiches and fresh oysters.
Arnold noted that the restaurant has made strides to be more family-friendly, particularly with its outdoor menu, which is set to undergo significant enhancements. Future renovations will also include the addition of a new marina, allowing boaters to dock and dine, further enriching the dining experience.
Craft Beer and Fresh Ingredients
One of the standout features of Emerald Waterfront is its partnership with Emerald Republic Brewery, ensuring that patrons have access to a selection of Pensacola-made craft beers on tap. This collaboration not only supports local brewing but also enhances the overall dining experience.
Emerald Waterfront is dedicated to using fresh, quality ingredients, particularly when it comes to its steaks. The restaurant proudly serves Braveheart Black Angus Beef, aged six to eight weeks and hand-cut daily, ensuring that every bite is tender and flavorful. The seafood menu is equally impressive, featuring Gulf grouper, Gulf shrimp, and a fresh catch that can be prepared grilled, blackened, or fried.
Must-Try Menu Highlights
For those eager to explore the new menu, here are five must-try items that showcase the culinary creativity at Emerald Waterfront:
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The Navarre Oscar: A nine-ounce filet served on a parmesan risotto cake, topped with royal red shrimp, lump blue crab, asparagus, and béarnaise sauce. Served with a house or Caesar salad and a choice of signature side. ($68)
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Jalapeno Crusted Snapper: Locally caught red snapper oven-roasted and topped with jalapeno crust remoulade and Pico de Gallo. ($38)
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Signature Ribeye: Known for its incredible marbling, this steak is available in 12-ounce or 16-ounce sizes, served with a house or Caesar salad and a signature side dish. ($38 or $50)
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Seared Scallops: Large sea scallops seasoned with Creole spice, served on parmesan risotto cakes with Béarnaise. ($18.50)
- Raw Oysters: Fresh local oysters shucked to order at the outdoor oyster bar, served with cocktail sauce, horseradish, lemons, and crackers. Available by the half or whole dozen. ($12 or $21)
Hours and Community Engagement
Emerald Waterfront Bar and Grill is now open, with the inside dining area operating from 3:30 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, and extending hours to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The outdoor bar area offers longer hours, from 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on weekends.
For those interested in staying updated on the latest happenings, including weekly specials and entertainment schedules, Emerald Waterfront encourages patrons to follow them on social media.
Conclusion
Emerald Waterfront Bar and Grill is poised to become a culinary cornerstone in Navarre, blending exceptional food, community spirit, and breathtaking views. With its commitment to quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, it invites locals and visitors alike to come and experience the flavors of the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale dining experience or a casual meal by the water, Emerald Waterfront promises to deliver an unforgettable dining adventure.