A New Era for Pensacola Beach: The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company and Hideaway Beach Bar
As the sun sets on Whiskey Joe’s, which bid farewell to Pensacola Beach last November, the vibrant waterfront is set to welcome two exciting new dining concepts this March: The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company and the Hideaway Beach Bar. These establishments promise to bring a fresh culinary experience to the beloved beach community, aiming to create a space where locals feel a genuine connection.
A Thoughtful Transition
Whiskey Joe’s, a staple in the area, has been a popular destination for both locals and tourists. However, its closure has paved the way for a new vision. Specialty Restaurants, the group behind Whiskey Joe’s, is taking this opportunity to redesign the space at 400 Quietwater Beach Road Suite 13 to better cater to the needs of the Pensacola Beach community. Kelsey Hanson, the marketing manager for Whiskey Joe’s, emphasized the intent behind the new restaurant: to foster a sense of belonging among locals.
Jake Rossman, the Director of Operations for The Wharf, shares this vision. He believes that the new concepts will resonate with the community, offering both an elevated dining experience and a casual beach vibe. The design elements, including foosball and shuffleboard tables, along with surfboard décor, set the stage for a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Culinary Delights with a Local Twist
One of the most exciting aspects of The Wharf is its menu, crafted by Executive Chef Kara Mardell. Unlike the standardized offerings of Whiskey Joe’s across its various locations, The Wharf’s menu is tailored specifically for Pensacola, intertwining Southern and Gulf Coast flavors. Mardell expressed her commitment to sourcing ingredients from local purveyors, ensuring that every dish showcases the freshest fish, beef, and produce.
While the full menu is yet to be unveiled, some anticipated highlights include Gulf Oysters Rockefeller, a Seafood Boil, and the Gulf Grouper BLT. Rossman praised Mardell’s creations, stating that the menu celebrates the best of Gulf Coast flavors, making it a true reflection of the region’s culinary heritage.
A Casual Beach Experience at Hideaway Beach Bar
Complementing The Wharf is the Hideaway Beach Bar, designed for a more laid-back dining experience. Situated near volleyball courts and fire pits, this outdoor venue will feature a menu that emphasizes casual fare. One standout item is the 50/50 Double Smash Burger, a delicious blend of 50% bacon and 50% Angus beef, which Rossman describes as bursting with flavor.
The bar will also serve refreshing cocktails perfect for a sunny day on the beach. Signature drinks like the Beachfront Mojito and the interactive Paid Vacation cocktail, served in a hanging bowl and infused with passion fruit and tarragon, promise to enhance the beachside experience.
A Space for Community and Celebration
The Wharf and Hideaway Beach Bar will boast approximately 290 seats, including outdoor areas, and can accommodate even larger gatherings for private events. With seven different event spaces, the venues can host parties ranging from intimate gatherings to large celebrations of up to 2,500 people, utilizing both indoor and outdoor facilities.
To celebrate their grand opening from March 13-16, guests can enjoy live music and participate in a punch card passport to explore various locations on the property. Additionally, locals can join the 850 Locals Club, which offers a commemorative bottle opener keychain and access to monthly specials throughout the year.
A Commitment to Quality and Community
Rossman and his team are dedicated to creating a dining experience that locals will cherish. He expressed pride in the food they will serve, emphasizing that it is the kind of cuisine he would be proud to share with his family. The focus on community, quality ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for The Wharf and Hideaway Beach Bar to become new favorites for both locals and visitors alike.
For those eager to stay updated on the latest developments, following The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company on social media or visiting their website will provide real-time information. Additionally, food enthusiasts can subscribe to the Pensacola Eats newsletter for weekly updates on the local dining scene.
As Pensacola Beach embarks on this new culinary journey, the arrival of The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company and Hideaway Beach Bar promises to enrich the community’s dining landscape, offering fresh flavors and a vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy.