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Shop Miami Swim Week-Approved Summer Swimwear at Destin Commons

The sun is shining, and the water is calling: Swimwear is no doubt the uniform of the season, particularly here in Destin, where pool and beach days are simply a part of our endless-summer lifestyle. 

Coming off the heels of Paraiso and Miami Swim Week’s globally viewed runway shows, we couldn’t be more excited to dive into all the 2023 summer swimwear trends, from the sultry and sporty to the minimally classic and playfully bold. Inspired by a variety of themes, including nature and this year’s nostalgic major motion picture debuts, these emerging trends are making up for the record heat index. Better yet, there’s a look to “suit” every member of the family here at Destin Commons!

Throw on some shades and lather on the SPF – these swimwear styles are bringing the heat all summer long: 

White Hot

Great news for brides: white was the neutral on this year’s swim week fashion runways – and it’s never looked better. Spotted in a variety of styles for men and women, it’s a classic shade that will keep you feeling breezy and looking chic.

Barbie World

TikTok’s “Barbiecore” aesthetic was already trending after the Barbie movie trailer’s release, so we’re guaranteed to see the iconic pink hue everywhere as the film now takes over cinemas across the globe. Unleash your playful inner Barbie and Ken and have fun in this vibrant, summer-friendly shade.

Into the Blue

Pulling inspiration from “Mermaidcore” (shout out to The Little Mermaid) and coastal Mediterranean vacations, oceanic vibes are all the rage right now. Think shades of blue, seashell accents, and shiny textures reminiscent of scales. 

Punchy Palette

From ombre to watercolor-inspired designs, this year’s multicolor trend proves shades look even dreamier when they’re blended. These pieces remind us of cotton candy or rainbow sorbet – the perfect complement to a warm summer day.  

Ombre Swim Trunk
Ombre Swim Trunk, $40, American Eagle
Short Sarong
Short Sarong, $12.99, H&M

Playful Prints

From retro florals to geometric shapes and brush strokes, prints are popping up all over the aisles and runways, adding a light-hearted and free-spirited touch to summer style. 

Pull-On Swim Trunk
Pull-On Swim Trunk, $30, Abercrombie & Fitch
Printed Swimsuit
Printed Swimsuit, $17.99, H&M

Ruched On the Runway

When it comes to the textures and flirty details we saw at this year’s Miami Swim Week, ruched fabrics might just be our favorite. This ultra-flattering scrunching effect can even help cinch in the waist, accentuate your natural curves, and make you feel as confident as ever. 

Surf’s Up

The sporty-cool surf vibes of the 70s are back. These fun, active-friendly pieces may just inspire you to grab a board and hit the waves. 

Ready to shop your favorite swimwear trends? Grab your family and friends and make it a summer shopping day here at Destin Commons. 

For more information and a list of our additional retailers, visit DestinCommons.com.

Celebrate Independence Day at the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival in Destin Commons

Prepare to feast in the name of patriotism: Destin Commons’ inaugural Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival is taking center stage on July 3 – and for the first time ever, we’ve upgraded our Independence Day celebration to a culinary extravaganza featuring 25 of the area’s best food trucks. 

From savory to sweet, fiery-hot to frozen and everything in between, this festival’s food truck lineup offers a variety of cuisines to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Classic American comfort dishes, internationally inspired fusion, decadent treats, and refreshing drinks will serve up a delicious start to summertime as guests peruse Destin Commons’ shops and snap photos in front of the colorful murals. 

And, because no proper summer soiree is complete without live music, we’ve got the Duchess and Tobacco Road Band performing the perfect party playlist as guests create memories and celebrate our great nation alongside their family and friends. 

Of course, it wouldn’t be a 4th of July celebration without fireworks – and you know we’ve got the grandest fireworks display on the coast! Case in point: this will be an evening you don’t want to miss. 

Here are a few of the local food truck vendors you can expect to see on Monday, as well as a few of their special, must-try Independence Day dishes:

Rise & Swine 

Rise & Swine will be serving up its iconic breakfast-inspired and hearty comfort food favorites, from the Chicken & Waffles and Pork Belly Tacos to its Piggy Burger and Breakfast Bowl (because eggs are appropriate all day long!)

“We are excited to celebrate our Nation’s Independence by gathering small business owners together – people who embody the American Dream – and display the passion and hard work that each of us put in every single day,” says Rise & Swine owner Chris Falgout.

Doughboy Burgers

Doughboy Burgers is bringing a unique twist on mouthwatering hamburgers that carry a meaningful history in Mississippi. Named after the term affectionately given to infantrymen in World War I, Doughboy Burgers strives to bring a slice of American history back through its food. During this era, Mississippians were struggling to find ways to feed their families. These tough and trying times displayed their creativeness along with resilience – a result of which was the dough burger. 

Come hungry for a Sloppy Joe (AKA the “Sloppy Dough”), Double Dough cheeseburger, loaded fries, and more. Bonus: they’ll be offering a $3 Sloppy Dough slider as a small plate exclusively for this event! 

“We are absolutely excited about celebrating our independence in paradise while bringing a bit of Mississippi fare. Come enjoy a slice of history with us this holiday weekend by trying our Dough Burger,” says owner Steven Rogers.

Cheeseus Food Truck FWB

Cheesus Food Truck FWB will melt your mind with “sinful” twists on grilled cheeses (try the “Envy” and “Pride”) and beef dogs (go for “Lust”) – plus, everything they serve is made to order with fresh and unique toppings. Created in 2020, Cheesus is female-owned, as well as local and family-operated, and consistently gives back to its community of “Cheesy” people. 

Sea and Snow Shave Ice

Cool off with Sea and Snow Shaved Ice’s Star Spangled Special: a festive red, white, and blue treat. “As a veteran-owned and Destin-based business, we’re so excited to be at this event,” says owner Kris Penland. 

Additional attending food truck vendors include: 

  • A Real Taste of Philly
  • Cafe Rico
  • Copper Grille 
  • Cousins Maine Lobster
  • Curry in a Hurry
  • Dadgum Good BBQ
  • Dippin Dots
  • Emerald Coast Kettle Corn
  • Frutas Locas
  • Kansas City Wings
  • Lola’s Garden
  • Maria’s Taco Plus
  • My Ohana
  • Plant Based Wellness con Sabor LLC
  • Pressed
  • Repicci’s 
  • Retro Snow Cones
  • Rolling Embers Pizza Oven
  • Say It Hot Dogs and More
  • Sports to Geaux
  • Sunshine Catering
  • Sweet Libations
  • Thai Taste
  • The Thirsty Ranch
  • Waffle Boutique
  • Who Cut the Cheese

Mmm…tastes like freedom. Join us at Destin Commons for the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival on Monday, July 3 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. 

For more information, visit https://destincommons.com/happenings-events/star-spangled-food-truck-festival/

Meet the Murals: A Glimpse into the Art Scene at Destin Commons

Complementing Destin, Florida’s natural art–sparkling blue waters against sugary sand, post-sunset cotton candy skies, and mesmerizing creatures dancing through lush habitats–there’s an array of vibrant and thought-provoking masterpieces brought to life by talented creatives ranging from celebrated locals to internationally-acclaimed artists. Sprinkled with catching and immersive murals, Destin Commons has gradually transformed into a place where guests of all ages can observe, interact with, and enjoy public art to their heart’s content. Whether you’re an art connoisseur, hoping to instill an appreciation for art in your children, or simply someone who enjoys being surrounded by colorful creations, our Destin Commons art scene is sure to spark joy and inspiration–all while serving as Instagram and TikTok-worthy backdrops for photos and videos of your own. Here’s a closer look at some of the best art in Destin(and an exciting way for guests to become the artists themselves!):

The Collection

In true Destin spirit, the sky is the limit…especially when it comes to using your imagination! There are numerous ways in which guests can engage with our interactive murals. Snap an Instagram-worthy selfie to send a virtual version of Taylor Shaw’s “Destin Postcard,” flock like a flamingo in front of Andrew Wargo and Keith Jette’s “Tropical Vibes” mural, play with the optical illusion in Daniel Fila’s “Gone Fishing,” or come up with a punny social media caption for Dabsmyla’s “The Friend Ship.” These pieces–and their artists–offer endless inspiration:

Destin Postcard by Taylor Shaw

The Collection at Destin Commons

Among the most iconic and photographed murals at Destin Commons is, fittingly, Destin Postcard. This piece was created by Destin native, Taylor Shaw, who began his journey at the age of 14, working as a dishwasher at the Indian Bayou Country Club in Destin. Now 32, Shaw has since evolved his career. He first moved to Austin, Texas, to establish his own restaurant business. However, he sold this venture three years ago, choosing to move to Athens, Georgia, where he could further his education at the University of Georgia (UGA). Before relocating, Shaw earned an undergraduate degree in painting from Mississippi State. Currently, he’s working towards his Masters of Fine Arts in Sculpture at UGA, diligently immersing himself in his studies. In addition to his academic commitments, Shaw continues to create commissioned artwork, specializing in woodworking, metal fabrication, and wood sculptures. You can stay up to date on his work by following him on Instagram, @lazerchef. When signing his official artwork, Shaw uses the pseudonym “Tay-Tay”.

Blue Crab and Gone Fishing, both by Daniel Fila (“Krave”)

The Collection at Destin Commons
The Collection at Destin Commons

When it comes to Daniel Fila’s pieces, you’ll want to take a closer look–there’s much more to Blue Crab than initially meets the eye, and Gone Fishing might have you feeling as though you’re in a splash zone. Also known as Krave, Filais a multi-faceted artist whose work ranges from mural installations and figurative and abstract painting to animations and urban sculpture using a range of mediums, techniques, and aesthetics. Born in Miami, Fila was influenced by his father, a commercial artist, and began sketching as a young boy to express himself and distinguish his unique identity. Ultimately, art led Fila to obtain an extensive art education in some of the country’s most respected schools and to his path to urban culture and street visual art in public spaces. An early pioneer in Miami’s urban art scene, Fila still lives in Miami, where his most famous work is “The Sunbather”, a mural located on Biscayne Boulevard that achieved international exposure when featured in Michael Bay’s movie, “Pain and Gain”, starring Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne Johnson in 2003.

Tropical Vibes by Andrew Wargo and Keith Jette

The Collection at Destin Commons

This is one colorful mural you’ll want to “flock” over to immediately! Tropical Vibes, by A.Wargo and K. Jette, evokes the joyful beauty of Florida’s vibrant colors and wildlife. Andrew Wargo is a primarily self-taught artist, originally from Orlando, but now based in Ft. Walton Beach. Wargo began his artistic endeavors at a young age and later supplemented his journey with formal art classes. Drawing upon inspiration from his surroundings, Wargo seeks to immerse himself in the local art community. He has been a juried artist showing in the MattieKelly Art Foundation’s Destin Festival of the Arts over the years. Keith Jette is the owner of Wicked Paint in Ft. Walton Beach, a paint shop for motorcycles and hot rods. His unique custom artwork ranges from automotive to canvas and tattoo work. Last year, based on his artistic talents, Jette was featured on the national TV show Skin Wars. The show reached out to Jette after being impressed with his artwork on Instagram. You can view Andrew and Keith’s works at www.andrewwargoart.com and www.facebook.com/Wickedpaintfwb/.

Wish You Were Here, Greetings From…, Good Vibes, and The Friend Ship, all by DABSMYLA

The Collection at Destin Commons
The Collection at Destin Commons
Good Vibes at Destin Commons
The Collection at Destin Commons

Gifting Destin Commons, not one, but four Instagram-worthy murals filled with feel-good vacation vibes and inviting Florida details, Australian husband-and-wife visual artist duo DABSMYLA bring their Down Under talents all the way to the Sunshine State. DABSMYLA employs a shared design language that dictates subject matter, positioning, color theory, and perspective. With this established framework and unspoken set of rules–strengthened by over a decade of working together simultaneously–their singular goal is to tell an expansive story that is wholly unique to their own experiences. There is nothing random or erroneous in DABSMYLA’s work; it’s planned and executed with the precision of a diamond heist and with the charm of a Technicolor world. DABSMYLA enhances each work with immersive environments that underscore the sense of whimsy and grandeur contained inside paintings, mixed media, and sculpture. This milieu isn’t simply adornment, but rather the tangible foundation upon which everything else stands. It’s this warmth and willingness to share which makes DABSMYLA’s art completely unique. Exploring tactile themes through sight, touch, and sound, there are no boundaries so the lines between real life and dreamscape are non-existent.

Mattie the Giraffe Sky by Andee

The Collection at Destin Commons

Mattie the Giraffe, made popular by local artist Andi Scurto, now graces the wall adjacent to the playground and splash pad at the Destin Commons. Scurto is known in Destin for her mural at the Destin Elementary School, as well as her award-winning poster design for the Mattie Kelly Arts Festival (both completed in 2015). For the Destin Commons mural, Scurto used a similar background to her school painting, but this time, her beloved character rides an old-fashioned bicycle in the sky surrounded by colorful birds. Withthismural, Scurto said she hopes to convey creativity and inspiration to everyone who sees it. She also has a Mattie book in the works and wants to remind viewers that it doesn’t matter who you are–you can always enjoy adventures.

Coloring the Commons

Destin Commons murals

Feeling inspired to create something beautiful of your own? Born from a desire to connect with our visitors and foster creativity, our Coloring the Commons program welcomes guests to tap into their inner artists and re-imagine the colorful murals at Destin Commons through their own lens. Simply download and print the coloring pages at DestinCommons.com/Coloring-The-Commons/ to bring a little piece of our center home with you (pro tip: this makes for a fun and engaging family-friendly summer activity!). And, of course, don’t forget to share your masterpieces with us by tagging #thedestincommons in your social media photos. Who knows … you may just be the new artist featured onsite! For more information on Destin Commons and our art murals, visit DestinCommons.com/The-Collection/.

Destin Dining Guide

Is it just us, or does everyone else constantly look forward to their next meal? Let’s face it: food is more than something we simply consume for survival. It’s a form of art and affection – a gift that’s meant to be savored and is often the centerpiece of celebratory gatherings, date nights, and memories made with family and friends. Since the beginning of time, food has brought people together, and that’s exactly why dining is at the heart of Destin Commons.   

Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, unique brunch experience, internationally inspired menu, decadent desserts, or mouthwatering small plates, you need not search further than Destin Commons and its City Food Hall (the first food hall in the area!)  

With a diverse array of 16+ restaurants, quick-service eateries, confectionary shops, and specialty stores from which to dine, Destin Commons is truly the perfect locale to come hungry and ready to indulge. Who knows…you may just find your new favorite spot or dish in the city. 

Feast your eyes on some of our top dining destinations in Destin– then come and get a taste for yourself.  

Bon Appetit! 

RESTAURANTS

Ideal for celebratory moments both big and small, these restaurants (some of which double as entertainment destinations) are serving up some major flavor. Satisfy your cravings at one (or all – we don’t judge) of these establishments.   

Another Broken Egg Café ® 

A cozy favorite, Another Broken Egg Café creates exceptional and craveable food with the care of a true artisan. There’s a reason why it remains a leading location for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Towering pancakes, sizzling skillets, and indulgent omelets? Sign us up! 

Gulf Coast Burgers Co. 

A local and family-owned restaurant, Gulf Coast Burgers features a gourmet chef-inspired menu filled with mouthwatering burgers and decadent shakes made with only the freshest ingredients. Want to skip the burger? Enjoy fresh seafood or wings, as well as gluten-free and even vegetarian options.  

Redbrick Pizza 

 This fast-casual restaurant specializes in traditional hand-crafted pizza, complete with a dreamy crispy crust that’s cooked to order in a high-temperature stone oven. The menu also features a selection of hand-crafted calzones, sandwiches, freshly tossed salads, locally made gelato, gluten-free pizza, desserts, and more.  

Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill 

With a unique aquatic underwater theme, Bass Pro Shops’ family restaurant is not to be missed! Enjoy seafood and all-American classics, as well as bowling lanes featuring shark and alligator-themed bowling balls. 

El Jalisco 

Authentic Mexican food – yes, please! El Jalisco features all your flavorful and fresh favorites.  Give us all the tacos, especially on Tuesdays! 

QUICK BITES

Enjoy great eats on the fly! We’re talking fresh and good-for-you smoothie bowls, juicy cheeseburgers, flaky pastries, and other irresistible bites to fuel your day at Destin Commons! 

Formula Fresh 

From signature cold-pressed juices to superfood smoothies and primal snacks, Formula Fresh makes 100 percent of all menu offerings in-house daily using whole ingredients. The concept uniquely formulates its recipes to give palates (and bodies) a daily dose of healthy bliss. There’s also an extensive list of healthy options for vegans, rawtarians, gluten-free followers, and Paleos alike, without limiting offerings to 100 percent of any traditional dietary labeling. 

Smashburger

It’s in the name: these smashed burgers are always made-to-order, never frozen, and smashed and seared to perfection on the grill. The menu is also kid-friendly and vegetarian-approved, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Starbucks Coffee 

No intro needed, this international coffee and coffeehouse chain features some of your favorite caffeinated drinks, as well as on-the-go friendly salads, sandwiches, pastries, and snacks.  

Pro Tip: City Food Hall offers several other quick-service eateries too! 

SWEET TREATS

Ice cream, donuts, shaved ice, nostalgic candies and much more – your day can only get sweeter from here! 

Kilwins 

Known for its gourmet sweets, the famous Kilwins confectionary is known for its wide array of kitchen-fresh fudge, 24 flavors of scrumptious original recipe ice cream, and a tempting selection of hand-dipped chocolates that will satisfy the neediest sweet tooth. 

Destination Little Donuts 

This local designer donut shop offers fresh, topped-to-order donuts, which are made throughout the day to ensure peak freshness. Better yet, they offer gluten-free donuts (with advanced reservation), as well as other treats and local coffee – because you just can’t have donuts without a good cup of joe. 

SnowBiz by Ray 

Florida days just call for Shaved Ice – a refreshing must-have in the Florida sunshine. Located in Center Plaza, SnowBiz offers 16 flavors of shaved ice ranging from Cherry to Pina Colada, as well as soft drinks, popcorn, and pretzels.  

IT’SUGAR 

This trendy sweets shop doubles as an exciting experience comprised of wonder-inducing sights, smells, and the tastes of all your favorite treats. Consider it a real-life Candyland. 

Pro Tip: Order a decadent shake at Gulf Coast Burgers! 

SPECIALTY

Fresh foods, unique bites, and gifts for the foodie in your life. 

Whole Foods Market  

We could happily get lost at Whole Foods – and trust us when we say this: the hot/cold food bar is not to be missed. Stop in for lunch or box up a helping of fresh food for a nutritious and delicious take-out meal your at-home crew will devour. Pro Tip: Grab some pastries from the bakery to pop in the oven for a sweet post-meal treat. 

The Beef Jerky Outlet 

Destin’s Beef Jerky Outlet offers over 200 varieties of jerky, as well as sausages, seasonings, hot sauces, flavored popcorn, cordials, chocolate-covered espresso beans, and even t-shirts. Don’t miss out on jerky flavors such as crawfish, garlic, Jamaican rum, honey BBQ, cherry maple, or the reaper. Bonus: these make great gifts! 

The Spice & Tea Exchange 

Aromatic from the moment you walk in, The Spice & Tea Exchange® invites foodies, chefs, and tea enthusiasts to shop over 140 fine spices, 75+ hand-mixed seasoning blends, sugars, salts, loose-leaf teas, and accessories. Create your own gourmet gift or choose from a variety of gift boxes and recipe samplers. 

CITY FOOD HALL

Featuring specialty restaurants centered around various international cuisines, City Food Hall is Destin Commons’ premier dining and entertainment destination. Taste your way around the world with health-conscious meals, Japanese-Southern cuisine, Thai street food, Mexican-soul food, poke bowls, fried chicken, island comfort food, and more.  

PB& J Bakery 

Created by husband-and-wife chef duo Phillip and Jess Bauer, PB&J is a health-forward cafe with bold, unique dishes and nostalgic classics. Yes, that includes comforting and gourmet PB&Js, as well as “Fat and Weird Stuffed Cookies,” sandwiches, soups, salads, coffee, and more. 

Nanbu Too 

Owned and operated by locally acclaimed Executive Chef Nikhil Abuvala, Nanbu Too is a satellite location of one of Grayton’s Beach’s top restaurants. Born from Abuvala’s early love of Asian fare, Nanbu (translated to “Southern” in Japanese) offers Japanese cuisine with a southern flair. 

Tuk Tuk Thai 

A concept by Chef Sonya Thaijaroen, Tuk Tuk Thai brings authentic Thai street food to the shores of Destin with ambitious dishes, bold flavors, and hand-mixed seasoning blends – all showcased by a military veteran-owned team. 

Birdie’s Nourishing Kitchen 

A finalist on Master Chef and former Food Network Star, Chef Katie Dixon’s dining concept offers a range of power foods, from acai bowls and salads to healthy takes on traditional, southern fare. 

Macho Taco 

Known for bringing Mexican-inspired soul food to 30A, Chef Stephen combined his southern roots, California farm-to-table experience, and passion for food to develop the unique, balanced, and delicious Mexican-inspired “soul food” menu at Macho Taco. He describes the dishes as simple yet elegant, rustic yet refined, and creative yet controlled. 

Poke Loa 

This New Orleans-based establishment was the first poke restaurant in Louisiana. The locally owned family business serves up the freshest cuts of fish around – all of which are sourced daily. All fish, toppings, and vegetables are chopped and prepared in-house. 

Crispy Chick.  

Destin Chicken Co. is serving up the best chicken on the Emerald Coast. From chicken nuggets tossed in a variety of delectable sauces and a range of flavor-packed chicken sandwiches to ranch slaw and house waffles with maple butter, there is a menu item to satisfy all cravings and taste buds. Don’t forget to include a side of truffle parmesan onion rings and a refreshing house lemonade! 

Likkle Jamdung 

Jamaican lingo for ‘Little Jamaica’, Chef Shaun Watson crafts island cuisine with a “down-home” feel. Think traditional Jamaican Beef Patties and unique takes on Caribbean favorites, such as Jerk Chicken and Braised Oxtail. 

Pro Tip: Stop at City Food Hall Bar for craft cocktails, local beer, and an expansive wine list! 

Hungry for more? We bet! Come taste your way around Destin at Destin Commons and City Food Hall. While hours vary for restaurants, City Food Hall is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.  

For more information, visit DestinCommons.com.  

City Food Hall Is Officially Open at Destin Commons–Here’s A “Taste”

Source: Tuk Tuk Thai via Instagram 

Destin foodies, rejoice! There’s a new food hall in town that’s sure to become the go-to dining destination and entertainment gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Enter: City Food Hall at Destin Commons. 

Source: getthecoast.com 

Featuring nine specialty restaurants centered around various international cuisines – a testament to Destin’s expanding food culture scene – and state-of-the-art entertainment, City Food Hall is the ideal place for an exciting date, family outing, ladies’ night, or game day in Destin. 

Founded by Peter Rounce and Kenzie Motai, whose impressive portfolio includes the now MIA Market in Miami Design District, the 14,000 square-foot space is the city of Destin’s first-ever food hall, serving as both a premier culinary and nightlife destination, as well as a unique opportunity to showcase the city’s veteran and up-and-coming chefs. Each of the featured local entrepreneurs were thoughtfully selected for their passion, talent, and contributions to the community. Together, they make City Food Hall one of the best places to eat and drink in Destin, Florida. 

Source: getthecoast.com 

A diverse array of globally inspired foods, craft beers, and cocktails are available, making City Food Hall the ideal place for an enriching and mouthwatering progressive dining experience. Grab a seat at the expansive indoor/outdoor bar to mingle as you sip and savor. Afterward, elevate your outing by heading over to the two, reservable Topgolf Swing Suites for an immersive social experience where you can engage in multi-sport games and Full Swing golf simulator technology – all as you catch the major games on multiple high-definition screens. 

Want to get a “taste” of City Food Hall before your visit? Here are some of the eateries we can’t get enough of: 

Source: PB&J Bakery and Café via Instagram 

PB&J Bakery and Café – Created by husband-and-wife chef duo Phillip and Jess Bauer, PB&J is a health-forward cafe with bold, unique dishes and nostalgic classics. Yes, that includes comforting and gourmet PB&Js, as well as “Fat and Weird Stuffed Cookies,” sandwiches, soups, salads, coffee and more. 

Nanbu Too – Owned and operated by locally acclaimed Executive Chef Nikhil Abuvala, Nanbu Too is a satellite location of one of Grayton’s Beach’s top restaurants. Born from Abuvala’s early love of Asian fare, Nanbu (translated to “Southern” in Japanese) offers Japanese cuisine with southern flair. 

Tuk Tuk Thai – A concept by Chef Sonya Thaijaroen, Tuk Tuk Thai brings authentic Thai street food to the shores of Destin with ambitious dishes, bold flavors, and hand-mixed seasoning blends – all showcased by a military veteran-owned team. 

Source: Birdie’s Nourished Kitchen via Instagram 

Birdie’s Nourished Kitchen by Chef Katie Dixon – A finalist on Master Chef and former Food Network Star, Chef Katie Dixon’s concept offers a range of power foods, from acai bowls and salads to healthy takes on traditional, southern fare.  

Source: Macho Taco via Facebook 

Macho Taco – Known for bringing Mexican-inspired soul food to 30A, Chef Stephen combined his southern roots, California farm-to-table experience, and passion for food to develop the unique, balanced, and delicious Mexican-inspired “soul food” menu at Macho Taco. He describes the dishes as simple yet elegant, rustic yet refined, and creative yet controlled.  

Source: Poke Loa via Instagram 

Poke Loa – This New Orleans-based establishment was the first poke restaurant in Louisiana. The locally owned family business serves up the freshest cuts of fish around – all of which are sourced daily. All fish, toppings, and vegetables are chopped and prepared in-house.  

Destin Chicken Co. – Debuting under a new name and with new owners, Destin Chicken Co. is serving up the best chicken on the Emerald Coast. From chicken nuggets tossed in a variety of delectable sauces and a range of flavor-packed chicken sandwiches to ranch slaw and house waffles with maple butter, there is a menu item to satisfy all cravings and taste buds. Don’t forget to include a side of truffle parmesan onion rings and a refreshing house lemonade! 

Likkle Jamdung – Jamaican lingo for ‘Little Jamaica’, Chef Shaun Watson crafts island cuisine with a “down-home” feel. Think traditional Jamaican Beef Patties to unique takes on Caribbean favorites, such as Jerk Chicken and Braised Oxtail. 

Source: Zitoun via Instagram 

Zaitoun – A concept by mother and daughter duo Lina and Haya, Zaitoun brings traditional Middle Eastern dishes to the Destin community. The team behind this eatery prides itself on using signature recipes, spice blends, herbs, and homemade sauces to enhance only the freshest ingredients. 

City Food Hall also plans to feature live music on a regular basis, and the venue and Swing Suites are now available to rent for special events, including birthdays, happy hours, holiday parties, bachelor/bachelorette events, corporate retreats, and more. Event hosts can incorporate an extra creative twist by adding a food passport to the experience.  

We know, we know … your mouth is watering. Luckily, your solution is nearby and now open! Head on over to City Food Hall and join us as we satisfy our cravings. After all, it’s one the best things to do in Destin, Florida. 

Located next to Foot Locker near Uncle Buck’s, City Food Hall is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.  

For more information, visit www.cityfoodhall.com and follow City Food Hall on Instagram

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Image source: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqis2gdrzAO/?hl=en

She’s your first best friend, role model, caretaker, and cheerleader – a real-life ‘wonder woman’ who radiates unconditional love. Others call her by her name, but to you, she’s a mom; a precious title designated for a queen whose incomparable purpose simply can’t be described.  

Mothers deserve the world, so sprinkle theirs with special gifts that make them feel extra appreciated and adored. Whether your mom is a trendsetter, homemaker, jewelry aficionado, bookworm, or beauty and self-care queen, Destin Commons has a variety of retailers with gift ideas that might just make you the favorite child (kidding!) 

And, if you’re a cherished mama yourself, Happy Mother’s Day to you! Feel free to send this over to your family for a not-so-subtle hint. After all, you deserve to be celebrated! 

SPOILED IN STYLE

There’s no better time than spring to spoil mom with chic new clothes that will make her look – and more importantly, feel – her best. After all, this season is symbolic of beauty, renewal, and more sunshine to come. Dreamy dresses, trendy tops and tunics, fashion-forward footwear, and chic accessories! Here are a few of our favorite picks (note: you may want to steal these from mom’s closet…)  

Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Ikat Tiered Maxi Dress , Chico’s, $189
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Linen Blazer in Sunshine, ,$179, Talbots
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Floral Espadrille Wedges , LOFT, $95 
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
The Spencer Hat by Lack of Color , $79, Lolaandrosa Boutique
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Lido Tote in Multi , Southern Living Store, $38 
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Made To Be Adored Linen Tunic , Dress Up, $34 

THERE SHE GLOWS 

She’s a natural beauty who recognizes the importance of great skincare, the impact of a great fragrance, and the thrill of enhancing features with makeup. Upgrade mom’s beauty arsenal with cult-favorite and award-winning products, pigments, and perfumes – or surprise her with an indulgent salon and spa day. 

WATCH HER SHINE

She adds a little sparkle everywhere she goes, so it’s only fitting she’s gifted something that sparkles right back. Allow mom to shine bright in jewelry, timepieces, and accessories that will become some of her most prized possessions.

THE HEART & THE HOME

Whether she’s a cozy homebody, enthusiastic hostess, culture connoisseur, or simply a fan of sentimental cards, these unique finds and reads and sure to put a smile on mom’s face, engage her creativity, and help her unwind. 

Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Cutting Board, Southern Living Store, $49
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
The Southern Living Party Cookbook, Southern Living Store, $35
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed, BAM! (Books-a-Million), $17

MADE FOR THE MARKET

From international delicacies, fresh produce, and baked goods to art, flowers, clothes, and accessories, the Destin Commons Market is filled with unique gems and talented locals. It’s a great place to discover special gifts and a wonderful place to visit during Mother’s Day weekend. 

Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Beach Paintings, Just Dahl, prices vary
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Khaki Pearl Hat, Morning Essence Boutique, $45
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Handmade Daisy Earrings, Clay Wear By Jess, $26

The countdown to Mother’s Day is officially here, so join us at Destin Commons and find the perfect gift for your one-of-a-kind mom.  

For more information, visit DestinCommons.com.