Business Details
Award-Winning Gulf Coast Cuisine & Live Music Venue
Established as a premier waterfront dining destination, The Bay has become synonymous with exceptional Gulf Coast cuisine and vibrant coastal culture. Our menu showcases the freshest local seafood, handcrafted sushi, and innovative Southern flavors, complemented by an extensive selection of wines and artisanal cocktails. With a state-of-the-art 12-draft beer system and daily happy hour specials, we provide an unparalleled beverage experience. The restaurant's prime location overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay offers breathtaking sunset views from both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Recognized for excellence in dining, music programming, and wine curation, we maintain rigorous quality standards across all operations.Our dedicated team ensures every guest receives attentive service in a welcoming atmosphere that combines casual comfort with refined elegance. Live entertainment featuring local musicians enhances the dining experience nightly, particularly during our popular Wednesday beach bonfire events. As part of Chef Jim Shirley's acclaimed restaurant group, we benefit from decades of culinary expertise and industry leadership. Our commitment to excellence extends to private event hosting, with customizable menus and waterfront venues for special occasions. Transparency in sourcing, preparation, and service remains fundamental to our approach, ensuring guests enjoy both exceptional meals and memorable experiences.
Services
Gulf Coast Cuisine
Live Music Events
Private Dining
Sushi Selections
Wine & Cocktail Bar
Waterfront Dining
Happy Hour Specials
Beach Bonfire Nights
Highlights and features
- Award-winning Gulf Coast cuisine with fresh local seafood selections
- Daily happy hour featuring half-priced cocktails and $4 draft beers
- Live music nightly with Wednesday beach bonfire traditions
- Panoramic bay views from indoor and outdoor dining areas
- Award-winning wine list with extensive varietal selections
What people say
Food is amazing
View is awesome
Live music
Wonderful sushi
Outdoor dining is a must
Services
Gulf Coast Cuisine
Our kitchen crafts authentic Southern Gulf Coast cuisine using the freshest local seafood and seasonal ingredients. Each dish showcases regional flavors through modern culinary techniques while maintaining traditional authenticity. Guests enjoy expertly prepared entrees ranging from classic seafood platters to innovative fusion creations.
Live Music Events
Nightly live entertainment features top local musicians across multiple genres, with special Wednesday beach bonfire performances. The venue combines professional sound systems with intimate settings for optimal listening experiences. All events maintain a family-friendly atmosphere consistent with our restaurant environment.
Sushi Selections
Our sushi program offers both traditional favorites and creative specialty rolls made with premium fish cuts. The menu includes classic nigiri, sashimi, and maki options alongside chef-designed combinations. Sushi is prepared to order using authentic techniques by experienced sushi artisans in a dedicated preparation area.
Private Dining
Customizable private event packages accommodate special occasions from intimate dinners to large celebrations. The venue offers multiple waterfront spaces with flexible seating arrangements and dedicated service staff. Menus can be tailored to specific dietary needs and event themes while maintaining our signature culinary standards.
Wine & Cocktail Bar
The beverage program features an award-winning wine list with global varietals and a curated selection of craft cocktails. Our 12-draft beer system serves regional microbrews alongside national favorites. Signature cocktails incorporate house-made ingredients and seasonal elements while maintaining classic cocktail fundamentals.
People
Jim Shirley
Chef/Owner
Renowned culinary expert with decades of experience creating award-winning coastal restaurants. Chef Shirley's innovative approach combines traditional Southern techniques with modern presentation. His establishments consistently receive top industry accolades for food quality and service excellence.
Questions
What makes The Sand Ole Opry unique?
We combine award-winning Gulf Coast cuisine with live music nightly in a waterfront setting overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay, featuring a 12-draft beer system and award-winning wine list.
When are happy hour specials available?
Daily happy hour runs 3-5 PM with half-priced cocktails, select wines, and $4 Shock Top draft beer available in our bar and dining areas.
Can I order food online?
Yes, our menu favorites are available for online ordering with pickup or delivery through 30A Grub 2 Go during dinner service hours.
What live music events do you host?
We feature nightly live performances with local musicians, including our popular Wednesday beach bonfire series and Sunday afternoon acoustic sets.
Are gift cards available?
Yes, tasteful gift cards can be purchased online for any amount and used toward dining, private events, or merchandise purchases.
Do you accommodate special events?
Our waterfront venue hosts private events with customizable menus, dedicated service staff, and multiple seating options for weddings, corporate events, and celebrations.
