The South Walton culinary scene has certainly grown in the last several years with a variety of places to dine. A favorite of mine among the top tier restaurants has been George’s at Alys Beach since opening day. The Hartley’s are long-time good friends, but also have a work ethic that I admire, and are constantly looking at new ways to evolve and reinvent their restaurant and cuisine to a higher level, giving patrons the best dining experience possible.
The frog- themed signature logo at George’s is printed on hats, t-shirts and other paraphernalia for purchase as seen when entering the restaurant, and on George’s “Misbehave/Behave” menu that offers spa inspired food for the health conscious, as well as delectable menu items to indulge in, along with gluten free, vegetarian and vegan selections.
George & Ann Hartley
In addition to interior renovations and a dining porch added to the exterior of the restaurant last winter marking George’s 5-year anniversary, a new Executive Chef, Darek Tidwell, has joined the team, bringing extraordinary flair to food preparations created.
Darek Tidwell is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), oversees all kitchen operations and has recently introduced a new menu that elevates George’s regional coastal fare while preserving the staples loyal guests have come to know and love. Some of those to mention are the popular Alys Burger with collard green and blue pimento cheese, fried pickled okra, and bacon served with farm fries, and the Fried Oyster BLT Salad with local romaine, bacon confit and tangy tomato vinaigrette, both served at lunch. Start dinner off by ordering appetizers like the Crawdad Cronuts with white truffle honey and topped with salmon roe, inspired by a trip Chef Darek made to Café Du Monde in New Orleans, or enjoy the succulent Pork Belly Lollipops before diving into an entrée of Jerk Crusted Gulf Snapper served with forbidden black rice, roasted plantain, pineapple salsa and coconut rum molasses. Chef Tidwell also urges customers to try the “life changing” Beef Short Rib Wellington.
Tidwell moved to Florida from South Carolina back in June 2014 in order to familiarize himself with the region’s local bounty. He visited local farms and ranches to develop relationships and strengthen the restaurant’s existing partnerships. His menu showcases these local ingredients front and center while incorporating flavors from around the globe while employing modern cooking techniques.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Darek to the George’s family,” says Ann Hartley. “I’m thoroughly impressed with the knowledge and experience he brings to the table. George and I can’t wait for our guests to taste his dishes!”
Sommelier and General Manager, Jake Purvis, is also working with Tidwell to expand the beverage program to include a wider selection of boutique wines and beers that pair perfectly with Tidwell’s cuisine. “George’s already has a stellar reputation for serving some of the best dishes along 30A,” says Tidwell. “We want to preserve what’s great while pushing the envelope to take the food to the next level. Sourcing quality, exciting ingredients from our trusted partners, while also tapping into the talents, interests, and heritages of my kitchen staff are critical elements to making that a reality!”
Behold: the four-course menu Darek has prepared for our New Year’s Eve dinner! George’s at Alys Beach is taking reservations for two seatings at 6pm and 8pm. Call 850.231.3797 or email [email protected] to reserve your spot as very few are left!
George and Ann Hartley also own LaCocina Mexican Grill and Bar, and the Seagrove Village MarketCafe. George’s at Alys Beach is located just off Scenic Highway 30A at 30 Castle Harbour Drive, Alys Beach. Lunch is served at 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner 5 to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday). To-go orders are available. For more information, call (850) 641-0017, or surf to www.georgesatalysbeach.com.
Susan Benton is the go to resource for foodies visiting Pensacola to Panama City Beach. She is a freelance food and travel journalist with published articles and photography in many local, regional and national publications. Her website is 30AEATS.com where she writes about local chefs, restaurants, fishermen, producers and the secrets of Gulf Coast food.
