Inside The Oyster

Honoring Tradition, Respecting Legacy, and Supporting a Cause

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 14:48:13 GMT

Respect and Tradition

At Shunk Gulley, we are deeply committed to upholding traditions that connect us to our nation's history and our local community. This week, we have lowered our flag to half-mast in honor of President Jimmy Carter, whose lifetime of service and humanitarian work has left an indelible mark on our country. His leadership in promoting peace, human rights, and compassion serves as a guiding light for us all.

Flying our flag at half-mast also symbolizes our respect and remembrance for all individuals who have made sacrifices in service to our nation and community. Whether honoring military heroes or local citizens who have demonstrated selflessness, we take this moment to express our deepest gratitude.

Our respect for the flag extends beyond its display. At Shunk Gulley, we are dedicated to the proper retirement of our nation's symbol. We utilize U.S. flag drop boxes, which are designed to collect worn-out flags for respectful disposal. These drop boxes ensure that flags are retired with the honor they deserve, following the traditions and ceremonies outlined in the United States Flag Code.

We invite you to join us in honoring these values. Whether you visit us for a meal or take a moment to reflect alongside us, let's work together to preserve the traditions that define us and support causes that build a brighter future.

From all of us at Shunk Gulley, thank you for helping us honor the past while building a better tomorrow.

Help Us Help Them

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 13:16:20 GMT

Join Shunk Gulley In Assisting Hurricane Victims

The Team at SHUNK GULLEY OYSTER BAR are collecting items for recent hurricane victims. Please join us today through October 24th as we collect items to fill the truck.

After a hurricane has damaged a community, basic need items are an essential donation to keep people fed, clean, and safe. The following donations may directly help both hurricane survivors and first responders and rebuilding crews:

Bandanas, work gloves, and other protective clothing items
Bottled water and other packaged drinks
Boxes, barrels, and heavy-duty plastic bags (for survivors to collect their possessions)
Cleaning items such as rags, mops, brooms, and scrub brushes
Device chargers First aid kits
Flashlights and batteries
Gently used or new work boots or rain boots
Hygiene items including soap, detergent, disinfectant, garbage bags, and hand sanitizer
Infant care items such as formula, diapers, and rash cream
Linens such as bedding and pillows
New undergarments such as underwear or socks
Nonperishable, packaged food items and snacks
PPE, including dust masks
Protective equipment such as work gloves, boots, helmets, and masks
Rebuilding supplies, including plastic tarps, nails, plywood, and hand tools
Safety equipment, including dust masks and first aid kits
Snacks Supplies for cleaning and rebuilding projects, including helmets, gloves, and tools
Toys and books to entertain children
Utility tools such as plastic buckets, shovels, and rakes

Career In The Hospitality Industry Is A Solid Choice

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 13:00:31 GMT

Shunk Gulley Discusses Future For Younger Students

As young people decide what they "want to be" later in life they may consider working in the hospitality industry. One such person, Macie Porter, is now a teacher in DeFuniak Springs but worked at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar while choosing her path in life.

Macie recently invited George Barnes, Shunk Gulley's Director, to explain why the Food and Beverage industry can be a great place to start any career. In fact; Lin-Manuel Miranda, Pharrell Williams, Nicki Minaj, Barack Obama and Pink are just a few who started in the industry.

The diversity in a restaurant provides a great set of skills for the future. Young people should consider working in the food and beverage service industry because it provides valuable life skills like customer service, teamwork, time management, adaptability, and problem-solving, all while offering flexible schedules, potential for career advancement within the industry, and a practical learning environment that can prepare them for future jobs across various sectors.

Develops essential soft skills:

Constant interaction with customers teaches effective communication, active listening, and the ability to handle diverse personalities, which are crucial in any career path.

Improves multitasking ability:
Juggling multiple orders, managing tables, and attending to customer needs simultaneously enhances multitasking skills.
Builds teamwork and collaboration:
Working in a restaurant requires seamless coordination with colleagues, fostering teamwork and the ability to collaborate effectively.
Time management practice:
Meeting deadlines for food service is critical, which helps young people develop strong time management skills.
Problem-solving experience:
Unexpected situations with customers or orders provide opportunities to practice quick thinking and problem-solving.
Flexible scheduling:
Many food service jobs offer flexible hours, which can accommodate school schedules or other commitments.
Career progression potential:
Starting as a server or busser can lead to management positions within a restaurant, or open doors to related industries like hospitality or catering.
Early exposure to the workforce:
Working in a restaurant can provide valuable early work experience, teaching basic work ethics and professionalism.
Potential for personal growth:
Learning to handle pressure, manage customer expectations, and adapt to changing situations can build confidence and resilience.

George Barnes has taught these skills to future leaders who may move on to different careers but he is always supportive of their paths. Just as he was at Career day with Macie Porter.

From Seed to Saltine

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 13:23:25 GMT

The Journey of Apalachicola Oysters to Shunk Gulley

At Shunk Gulley, we pride ourselves on offering the freshest, most flavorful oysters the Gulf Coast has to offer. Our journey from seed to saltine is a testament to our commitment to quality and sustainability. Here’s a closer look at how Apalachicola oysters make their way to your plate, along with a variety of specialty oysters from Texas, Louisiana, and other coastal towns.

The Origin: Apalachicola Bay

Apalachicola Bay, located in the Florida Panhandle, is renowned for its oyster farming. The bay’s unique mix of fresh and saltwater creates an ideal environment for oyster growth. Here, the process begins with oyster seeds, tiny larvae that are carefully nurtured in hatcheries. These seeds are then spread onto oyster beds where they will grow and mature over the next 18-24 months.

Sustainable Farming Practices

Sustainability is at the heart of Apalachicola’s oyster farming. Farmers employ methods that not only ensure a steady supply of oysters but also protect the delicate ecosystem of the bay. The use of oyster reefs, for instance, helps in maintaining water quality and provides habitats for other marine life. These sustainable practices ensure that Apalachicola Bay continues to be a rich source of oysters for generations to come.

Harvesting the Best

When the oysters reach maturity, they are carefully harvested by hand. This traditional method preserves the quality of the oysters and ensures that only the best make it to market. The harvested oysters are then immediately transported to Shunk Gulley, guaranteeing they arrive fresh every day.

Freshness Delivered Daily

At Shunk Gulley, we believe that freshness is key to an exceptional dining experience. Our Apalachicola oysters are delivered daily, ensuring that every oyster we serve is as fresh as possible. You can taste the crisp, briny flavor that only the freshest oysters can offer.

A Variety of Coastal Flavors

In addition to our Apalachicola oysters, we also feature a selection of specialty oysters from other coastal regions. Our offerings include oysters from Texas, Louisiana, and various other coastal towns, each bringing their unique flavor profiles to our menu.

Texas Oysters: Known for their meaty texture and sweet, mild flavor.
Louisiana Oysters: These oysters are larger and have a rich, salty taste that’s beloved by many.
Specialty Oysters: From different coastal towns, each with distinct characteristics shaped by their environment.

The Shunk Gulley Experience

At Shunk Gulley, enjoying oysters is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re savoring them raw, grilled, or in one of our signature dishes, you can be sure that you’re getting the highest quality oysters available. Our commitment to freshness, sustainability, and supporting local farmers shines through in every bite.

Conclusion

From the pristine waters of Apalachicola Bay to your table at Shunk Gulley, our oysters embody the best of the Gulf Coast. We invite you to join us and experience the exceptional flavors of our oysters, each telling a story of sustainability, tradition, and care. So come on over, grab a saltine, and enjoy the journey from seed to saltine with us.

Visit Us

Ready to taste the difference? Visit Shunk Gulley today and treat yourself to the finest oysters the Gulf Coast has to offer. Whether you’re a longtime oyster lover or new to the experience, we’re sure you’ll find something to delight your palate. See you soon!

Discover the Magic of Our Award-Winning Smoked Tuna Dip at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar

Fri, 24 May 2024 19:29:19 GMT

The Secret Behind the Flavor

The key to our Smoked Tuna Dip lies in the exceptional ingredients we use, starting with the premium tuna sourced from Waterstreet Seafood in Apalachicola. Known for its pristine waters and rich fishing heritage, Apalachicola is home to some of the best seafood in the world. Water Street Seafood provides us with the freshest tuna, ensuring that every bite of our dip is bursting with authentic coastal flavor.

The Waterstreet Seafood team carefully smokes the tuna to perfection, imparting a rich, smoky flavor that elevates this dish to a whole new level. The smoking process is an art form, balancing the right amount of heat and time to achieve a tender, flavorful result that melts in your mouth. The smoky undertones complement the natural sweetness of the tuna, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that keeps our guests coming back for more.

Our Smoked Tuna Dip has not only won the hearts of our patrons but also earned accolades and awards in culinary competitions. Its unique flavor profile and high-quality ingredients have made it a standout dish that exemplifies the best of what Shunk Gulley has to offer.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, a trip to Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar wouldn't be complete without trying our famous Smoked Tuna Dip. Served with crispy crackers, it's the perfect starter to share with friends and family as you soak in the laid-back atmosphere and stunning Gulf views.

From Apalachicola Waters to Shunk Gulley's Table: The Journey of Fresh Red Snapper

Thu, 16 May 2024 14:14:26 GMT

The Catch of the Day: Red Snapper

Nestled along the Gulf Coast, Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar prides itself on serving up the freshest seafood delights sourced from trusted suppliers like WaterStreet Seafood. Among their prized catches is the renowned red snapper, sourced directly from the pristine waters of Apalachicola. Join us as we delve into the journey of this delectable fish from the depths of the Gulf to the heart of Shunk Gulley's kitchen.

Apalachicola, renowned for its abundant marine life and fertile fishing grounds, is a haven for seafood enthusiasts. The nutrient-rich waters provide the perfect habitat for red snapper to thrive, ensuring a high-quality catch for local fishermen like those at WaterStreet Seafood. Every morning, skilled fishermen from WaterStreet Seafood set out from Apalachicola in pursuit of the day's catch. Armed with experience and dedication, they navigate the Gulf waters, utilizing sustainable practices to preserve the delicate ecosystem. Upon reeling in their haul, the red snapper is carefully sorted and stored, ensuring its freshness is preserved during transit. From the moment it leaves the hands of the fishermen to its arrival at Shunk Gulley's doorstep, the red snapper remains a testament to the region's rich maritime heritage.

At Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, the journey of the red snapper culminates in a culinary masterpiece. Expert chefs craft each dish with precision and care, showcasing the pristine quality of the fish. Whether grilled to perfection, or blackened with spices, the red snapper delights diners with its tender texture and delicate taste. Paired with locally sourced ingredients and inspired culinary techniques, every bite is a celebration of Gulf Coast cuisine.

From the bountiful waters of Apalachicola to the welcoming ambiance of Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, the journey of fresh red snapper is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Gulf Coast. With each bite, diners are invited to experience the flavors of the sea, savored amidst the stunning backdrop of Florida's coastal beauty.

Exploring the Source: A Visit to Waterstreet Seafood in Apalachicola

Mon, 06 May 2024 14:51:27 GMT

From the waters of Apalachicola Bay to the heart of 30A, come taste the difference at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar

At Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, we pride ourselves on bringing the freshest seafood straight from the Gulf to your plate. Our commitment to quality means we go straight to the source to ensure that every bite you take is an experience worth savoring.

Recently, George had the pleasure of visiting Waterstreet Seafood in Apalachicola, where our prized oysters from Rattlesnake Cove originate. Nestled along the pristine shores of Apalachicola Bay, Waterstreet Seafood is renowned for its dedication to providing the finest seafood to restaurants like ours.

George's visit to Waterstreet Seafood was an eye-opening experience, where he witnessed firsthand the meticulous care and attention that goes into harvesting and cultivating the freshest oysters. From the moment they are plucked from the bay to the careful handling and processing, every step is taken to ensure that the oysters retain their natural flavors and freshness.

At Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, we believe that great seafood starts with great ingredients. That's why we are proud to partner with Waterstreet Seafood to bring you the finest oysters from Rattlesnake Cove. When you dine with us, you can trust that you are enjoying the best that Apalachicola has to offer, from the bay to your plate.

Join us at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar and experience the taste of the Gulf like never before. With our commitment to quality and freshness, every dish we serve is a testament to our dedication to providing you with an exceptional dining experience.

Gulf Breezes and Coastal Comfort Food at Shunk Gulley

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 17:01:06 GMT

Shunk Gulley Scores High With Local Experts

While it may be named for folklore that told of a secretive reef where fishing boats once launched into the Gulf, Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar’s reputation in Santa Rosa Beach is no fisherman’s tale. Centrally located at the intersection of highways 393 and 30A, Shunk Gulley is well-loved by locals and visitors alike for beachfront views matched by an inventive menu of freshest coastal cuisine. Unmistakable Southern hospitality greets each diner; service at Shunk Gulley is consistently attentive and warm.

Originally opened in November 2017, Shunk Gulley quickly rose through the ranks to become a top-rated area restaurant and local landmark. It offers two levels of seating and panoramic, open-air Gulf views in the bar area upstairs, with plenty of indoor and outdoor options for dining.

In addition to their namesake oysters (served up either grilled or “Naked,” raw), Shunk Gulley’s menu includes a range of appetizers, soups, salads, and baskets piled with generous portions of Fried Gulf Shrimp, Gulf Coast fish, or Fried Sweet Tea Chicken Tenders (served with fries or coleslaw). Priding itself on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Shunk Gulley also serves a seasonal featured entree. A kids menu covers basic fare, including corn dogs and chicken tenders for little ones who may not go for seafood, and adults will also find a few “land-lubber” items, including the house Shunk Burger. A thoughtful cocktail list balances candy-colored beach refreshers with elegant classics and is sure to whet a whistle of whatever tune.

While the prices at Shunk Gulley are about what you’d expect for such a prime location, a daily happy hour special offers late afternoon guests great deals on a limited selection of food and drinks. During normal lunch and dinner hours, plan to enjoy a leisurely meal and definitely sit outside to get the most bang for your buck; stunning views of the Gulf Coast elevate any meal at Shunk Gulley to a memorable experience.

For guests planning to dine on rainy days, the inside seating area is quite spacious and good for groups. Tasteful, exposed white brick, picture windows, and rattan bistro chairs provide a nautical vibe while keeping the focus to what you came for: ocean views and delicious seafood.

On a recent visit to Shunk Gulley, we decided to wait a few extra minutes to sit up on the upper level, and enjoyed the following dishes:

Naked Oysters
Does anything say beachfront dining quite like a platter of freshly iced raw oysters? Served up right with fresh lemon and horseradish.

Duck Fat Gulley Fries
A top seller at Shunk Gulley, and at first bite we could see why. Hand cut and tossed in olive and truffle oil, these were perfectly crisp on the outside and tender inside, made even more mouth-watering by a flurry of Parmesan on top.

Yellow Fin Tuna Dip

We were told this is a must-try, and thank goodness we did. Served with flatbread and local hot peppers, it was delicious!

Fried Gulf Shrimp Basket
A hearty portion of expertly battered and fried shrimp, this was the highlight of our meal.

Shunk Gulley serves great seafood but has also taken care that each item on their small menu is made with exceptional flavor and care. There’s no wrong way to eat at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, but here’s what we recommend: order a drink (or two), pull up a chair facing the sunshine, and enjoy some fresh seafood in a fun and friendly beach setting. Cheers!

Insider Tip:
While Shunk Gulley is a first come first serve restaurant and does not accept reservations, if you’re dining at peak hours, plan to whet your appetite at their outdoor bar, where guests are welcome to order drinks while awaiting a table.

See the full article at: Florida Panhandle

Dive into oysters, good time with Shunk Gulley

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 21:37:00 GMT

The Locals Hangout!

A fishermen's landmark, the restaurant has become a destination for locals and visitors to gather since it opened in November 2017.

"The measure of success is not being able to tell the difference between locals acting like they're on vacation or those visiting acting like they live here. We don't want you to be able to tell the difference," said Boyle, who hopes everyone is treated equally well at Shunk Gulley.

In addition to oysters, big sellers include Duck Fat Gulley Fries — hand cut with garlic, olive and truffle oil, parsley, sea salt, and Parmesan with spicy ketchup and garlic aioli, as well as lunch specials from Chef Tyler McMahan and his culinary team.

"Tyler just has a good vision for different tastes but still in the comfort zone," Boyle remarked. "People always ask, 'What's a good place for local seafood? This is what you would want, fresh, responsibly sourced and served on the beach."

My first dining experience at Shunk Gulley included the Grouper Tapenade — Gulf grouper topped with a basil olive pecan tapenade over a bed of asparagus — at night on the patio with a view of the Gulf across 30A and live music in the background. My cousins, visiting from out of state, also shared bites of Key Lime Pie — though my son wasn't sharing one taste of his Creme Brulee.

Shunk Gulley

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 21:26:49 GMT

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar hip hang-out for locals, tourists

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar is a cool new spot on the corner of West Scenic Highway 30A and South County Highway 393. It has delicious food — even for those who don’t like seafood — a waterfront view and frequently hosts live music.

THE FOOD

My guest and I were a little anxious about dining somewhere with “oyster” in the name. Neither of us had tried oysters but, for the sake of writing this feature, we figured one of us should give them a taste.

For starters, though, we ordered the Duck Fat Gulley Fries. It was a tough decision because the appetizer menu included tuna poke, yellow fin tuna dip, fried crab claws, Key lime rum shrimp and a variety of oysters.

While we waited for our appetizer, a staff member shucking oysters kindly offered to let us try one. My guest agreed and tried an oyster with a saltine cracker and the restaurant’s sauce.

We devoured the flavorful fries quickly. They were topped with garlic, olive and truffle oil, sea salt and garlic aioli.

Another way to start your meal is with one of the restaurant’s soups or salads. The menu features a shrimp and crab bisque, Shunk house salad, wedge salad and grilled Caesar salad.

Choosing the entrée was even tougher than the appetizer because there are many seafood and non-seafood options. The menu has sandwiches, such as the shrimp po boy, oyster po boy and Gulf sandwich, which features fish from the Gulf of Mexico. It also offers entrees such as the Catch of the Day basket, Gulf shrimp basket, fried oyster basket, filet mignon and crab cakes.

The side choices are a side salad, french fries, asparagus or coastal slaw.

After earlier taste-testing an oyster, my guest ordered a half-dozen of the bacon cheddar jalapeño oysters for his entree.h

The oysters came with bread slices. He enjoyed the oysters' flavor with the toppings, and how filling they were surprised him.

I couldn’t decide if I wanted a burger or the Sweet Tea Chicken Basket. The basket comes with fried sweet tea-brined chicken.

I went the more traditional route and ordered the Shunk Burger. The wait staff had walked past me with several burgers that made my mouth water.

The half-pound cheeseburger came with Vermont sharp cheddar cheese, applewood bacon, romaine lettuce, tomato jam, caramelized honey onions and pickles. The burger comes inside a challah bun.

The juicy burger was tasty and hearty, and the fries were crispy. The best part of the burger was its deliciously sweet onions.

For beverages, the restaurant offers an extensive wine, cocktail and beer menu. It has about 15 red wine and white wine choices each, more than 10 ocean-themed specialty cocktails and a selection of canned beer and some locally-brewed draft beer. The cocktail names are creative, such as the Sea Queen Mojito, Mermaid Martini and the Sand Dollar.

Choosing the dessert was the easiest decision because my guest and I love Key lime pie. We were so full from our meals, it made sense to split a light dessert. Next time, we might try the Beignet Fries or Mac’s Pie, which also sound yummy.

The Key lime pie was a classic style topped with white chocolate mousse and a slice of lime.

THE ATMOSPHERE

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar is hip.

The wall on the side facing the Gulf has two garage doors. It’s too cold to raise them now, but it will be awesome when warmer weather arrives.

It offers table and bar seating, mounted TVs and a view of the cooks preparing food. I always think it’s nice to see what is going into the meal.

This restaurant transitions seamlessly from day to night. It’s ideal for families or tourists with its convenient location near the beach and menu featuring light and heavy dishes. It’s also ideal for evenings of entertainment, as one part of the restaurant frequently features live music. You can tell just from the extensive drink menu, live music schedule and vibe, this is a fun place for a night out.

The best part is the restaurant’s location, which is directly across from a public beach access. You can either admire the water from the eatery or hit the beach before or after you eat.

THE SERVICE

Because we ate at the restaurant on New Year’s Eve, it was packed. While the servers were extremely busy, we received extra attention from the staff member shucking oysters next to us at the bar.

He made sure our server took our order and he chatted with us while we waited. Keep in mind, he never once stopped shucking oysters.

We asked how many oysters were typically shucked in one day, and the numbers started at 60 dozen and went past 100 dozen. Wow. He admitted his hands were sore the day after shucking.

He also showed us the restaurant’s collection of mini-pearls the staff members have found inside the oysters. There were about 100 small pearls of different colors.

Although we didn’t catch his name, we appreciated how he ensured our visit was pleasant, even knowing the server would receive the tip.

Our server was friendly and never rushed us, despite how busy she was.

Overall, we were pleased with the quality of service and genuine sentiment of the staff.

A FINAL TASTE

With its modern design and prime location, we knew we would like Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar as soon as we walked in. This joint will make a popular choice for tourists and locals in the 30A community.

QUICKBITES

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar

Location: 1875 County Highway 393, Santa Rosa Beach

Telephone: 850-622-2733

Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. lunch; 4-9:30 p.m. dinner daily

Reservations: No

Kids menu: Yes, $8

Price Range: Appetizers, $8-$25; soups and salads, $8-$13; sandwiches, $16-$20; entrees, $14-$34; desserts, $8-$9

Stop By Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 21:22:22 GMT

Shunk Gulley is MUCH more than a oyster bar

When you’re out enjoying all the fun, exciting, beach and other activities the Emerald Coast has to offer, you’re bound to hear your stomach rumble. All the fun in the sand, sun, and water takes a toll and you’ll work up an appetite. If you’re looking for fresh, local seafood, satisfy your craving at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar at 1875 S. Hwy. 393 in Santa Rosa Beach. They’re open 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. Call 850-622-2733 for takeout orders.

OYSTERS

Sold by the half dozen or dozen, you’ll enjoy Meyer Lemon Garlic oysters with butter, Meyer lemon, garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. Spice things up with a half dozen or dozen cheddar jalapeno oysters served with sharp cheddar, jalapeno, and bacon. If you prefer your oysters raw, you can order by the half dozen or dozen and enjoy them with cocktail, horseradish, and lemon.

SOUP & SALAD

Warm up with crab bisque, a lump blue crab with roasted corn, sherry, cream, butter, and seafood stock, or take your pick of salads. The house salad features Arcadian mixed greens with heirloom tomatoes, red onions, Vermont sharp cheddar, cucumber, carrots, sage, croutons, and a red wine vinaigrette. Quinoa salad is filled with quinoa, baby kale, sunflower seeds, goat cheese, artichoke hearts, carrots, cucumbers, heirloom tomatoes, sweet drop peppers and an avocado lime vinaigrette. Panzanella salad is a mix of heirloom tomatoes, burrata, ciabatta bread, cucumbers, shallots, basil, and creamy balsamic vinaigrette. Add on toppings like chicken, shrimp, oysters, fish, and tuna dip.

APPETIZERS

There are a myriad of appetizers including crab claws prepared fried with remoulade, blackened with pepper butter, or sauteed with garlic butter. Share some “Duck Fat Gulley Fries” – hand cut fries with garlic, olive and truffle oil, parsley, sea salt, Parmesan, spicy ketchup, and garlic aioli.

SANDWICHES & BURGERS

The Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar Burger is a house blend burger patty topped with Vermont sharp cheddar, applewood bacon, caramelized honey onions, tomato jam, house pickles, garlic aioli, and lettuce on a toasted Challah bun. Go for something a little lighter with the Gulf Sandwich – Gulf fish with tartar sauce, heirloom tomato, and coastal slaw on a toasted Challah bun, or the avocado chicken club.

ENTREE

Fill up with fried Gulf shrimp, Gulf Coast fish, or fried sweet tea chicken fingers, all served with your choice of fries or coastal slaw. For a taste of the south, the summer grouper features Southern-style succotash with field peas, squash, zucchini, onions, shishito peppers, bacon, and Meyer lemon butter sauce.

KIDS

The kiddos may not always want what grown-ups do. For them there’s popcorn shrimp, fried fish, chicken fingers, or a corn dog, all served with fries, mac & cheese, or a fruit cup.

HEADING

Everyone can finish off the meal by satisfying their sweet tooth. Choose traditional key lime pie or go for something different like beignet fries – French fried fritters with powdered sugar and caramel. If you’re still in the mood for pie, Mac’s Pie features cream cheese & mousse filling, whipped cream, and seasonal fruit on a graham cracker crust.

FRESH SEAFOOD ON THE EMERALD COAST

You came to Historic 30A along Florida’s Emerald Coast to experience a new place on a fun, relaxing getaway with loved ones. While you’re planning everything make sure you book a stay in a vacation rental provided by 30A Beach Girls. We have units as small as one bedroom all the way up to eight bedrooms for a large group reunion at the beach!

How Healthy Are Oysters?

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 16:52:18 GMT

Beneficial to ecosystems and humans, oysters also provide an array of health benefits.

Oysters are saltwater bivalve mollusks that live in marine habitats such as bays and oceans.

They’re a vital part of the ecosystem, filtering pollutants out of the water and providing habitats for other species, such as barnacles and mussels.

There are many different types of oysters — and their briny, flavorful meat is considered a delicacy around the world.

Though well known for their supposed aphrodisiac qualities, these mollusks have a lot to offer in terms of health benefits.

This article reviews the impressive health benefits — but also risks — of eating oysters and explains the best ways to prepare them.

Oyster nutrition facts

Oysters have a hard, irregularly shaped shell that protects a gray, plump inner body.

This inner body — known as the meat — is highly nutritious.

In fact, a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of cooked wild eastern oysters provides the following nutrients

Calories: 79
Protein: 9 grams
Carbs: 4 grams
Fat: 3 grams
Zinc: 555% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin B12: 538% of the DV
Copper: 493% of the DV
Selenium: 56% of the DV
Iron: 40% of the DV
Manganese: 20% of the DV
Phosphorus: 12% of the DV
Vitamin E: 9% of the DV
Riboflavin: 9% of the DV
Calcium: 7% of the DV

Oysters are low in calories yet loaded with nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

For example, a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving provides more than 100% of the DV for vitamin B12, zinc, and copper, plus a good amount of selenium, iron, and manganese.

These tasty mollusks are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, a family of polyunsaturated fats that play important roles in your body, including regulating inflammation, supporting heart and brain health, and protecting against type 2 diabetes

For more information you can read the full article on: Healthline

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar: So close you can taste it

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 17:09:28 GMT

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar has become a popular spot since opening

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar has become a popular spot since opening at the corner of Highway 30A and 393 in Santa Rosa Beach just a little more than two years ago. The restaurant, which got its name from the fishing reef off the coast, offers fresh, locally sourced seafood. It’s a kitchen where just about everything is made from scratch, with a spectacular view of the Gulf of Mexico.

“We’ve got probably one of the best views you can have here on 30A so it’s nice to enjoy your grouper sandwich knowing it came from right here in the Gulf.” – Tyler McMahan, executive chef

“We’ve got probably one of the best views you can have here on 30A,” said Executive Chef Tyler McMahan, “so it’s nice to enjoy your grouper sandwich knowing it came from right here in the Gulf. We’re 100 percent true about ordering seafood as close to home as possible.”

That grouper sandwich he mentioned – topped with coastal slaw and homemade tartar sauce – has become a guest favorite. It goes well with their famous Duck Fat Gulley Fries which are hand-cut potatoes fried in duck fat, then tossed in truffle oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese.

The menu features oysters and other seafood served in a variety of ways, but offers plenty of non-seafood items, as well. McMahan says while they keep some of their much-loved entrees year round, he likes to add new dishes that showcase the fruits and vegetables in season. He also has a lot of fun creating the “specials” they offer.

“I look forward to walking in every day and seeing what we can do to spice things up a bit,” he said. “People love to walk in and ask about the specials and I like to do something new and exciting and see how it goes.”

And just as the seafood is locally-sourced, many of the items on the beverage menu also have a community connection.

“Our cocktail menu, beer menu, and wine list are locally driven,” said restaurant co-owner George Barnes. “We’re all supporting each other to make a better community.”

The Shunk Gulley team supports a number of local charities and last year kicked off the inaugural Shunk Gulley Oyster Festival to raise money for the South Walton Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department. It’s now an annual event.

The watermelon shrimp salad at Shunk Gulley offers a refreshing twist on greens.

Room to groove

The restaurant is set up to take advantage of its close-to-the ocean view. Since it focuses on casual dining, it doesn’t take reservations, but if there’s any wait at all, it’s designed so guests won’t even mind.

“Once you get here, there are very comfortable outside areas and spaces at the bar if there is a wait for a table,” Barnes said. “Guests may find themselves having such a good time, they’ll wind up eating right where they are.”

From the day it opened, Shunk Gulley has been dedicated to providing a neighborhood go-to restaurant where locals and visitors alike can enjoy an open, casual dining experience with excellent food, live music seven days a week, and a warm and welcoming staff.

“Our team is driven by hospitality,” noted Barnes, “so when somebody comes in they’re greeted with a smile and we’re ready to do whatever we can to make their experience better and exceed expectations.”

Read the full article at 30A Food & Wine