Top 3 Hamburgers in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

In the panhandle of Florida, one thing you will have no trouble finding is seafood. Lined with the charter boats, the Gulf of Mexico provides one fancy fish and shrimp feast after another. But for most Americans, sometimes we just want a good burger!

When we first moved the Santa Rosa Beach, off HWY 30A, we were amazed how there are very few commercialized restaurants (thankfully, there is a Starbucks) and we loved that about the area, until we went for a burger. With no brand recognition to go by, we began a quest in search of a winning hamburger. After a year of trying every restaurant from Panama City to Sandestin, here are the top 3 best burgers in Santa Rosa Beach from fast and fabulous to fancy and worth every penny!

Gravel Road: Kobe Beef Burger

By far, the best burger on 30A is at an unsuspecting restaurant called The Gravel Road. A bit upscale (though they welcome any attire) The Gravel Road has the best meat, Kobe Beef, prepared with interesting, tasty first-class sides. The burger is thick, juicy and cooked to order. You sink your teeth into the specialty beef and can't believe the flavor burst that flows out of the meat. These cooks are trained by a masterful chef who has had food rated in top magazines in the nation. This is the best burger I have ever had in my life!

The Gravel Road is located on the north side of HWY 30A in between Alys Beach and Seaside, FL. (Please Note: New location as of 2010, a very short drive from the old location in Grayton.) You might wait a while for the burger, but it is worth every bite. The burger doesn't make the night time menu, so be sure to catch it for a great, hearty lunch.

The Red Bar: Grayton Beach

Come barefoot and park your bicycles. The Red Bar is a famous little, hippy beach bar on the Gulf in a tiny town called Grayton Beach. Totally worth the visit, this bar with hardwood plank floors and only red lights, hosts live bands and serves up a great noon time burger that is huge! Moderately priced, the burger is as good at the happy atmosphere that makes coming off a bright beach a retreat (and a step back to the 70's.)

Located on Hotz Ave in Grayton Beach (a 3 block street) the bar is beachside and IS the most happening place in Grayton - a party for the family at all times. Though there is an ATM inside, The Red Bar does not accept credit cards and serves the burger only at lunch. Swimwear is welcome.

Learn more: http://www.theredbar.com/

The Great Southern Cafe: Seaside, Florida

In the upscale, luxury town square of Seaside, Florida - a most awesome family vacation resort situated on the beach - sits a restaurant that delivers a great burger day or night: The Great Southern. Half indoor and half outside, this restaurant/bar does a lot of things right (you have to try their "Grits Ya-Ya," too!)

The atmosphere is easy and calm and large parties are easily accommodated. It is a "come as you are" kind of place with beach music that doesn't drown out a good talking date or family time. The wait is never too long, the service is fast and the food is reasonable - everything from Bar B Q, to Seafood, Salads and more. But if you are looking for a strong staple hamburger, the Great Southern delivers!

Learn more: http://www.thegreatsoutherncafe.com/

Seaside, Florida sits stately in the center of the 30 mile, HWY 30A. You can't miss it, as it is one of the most booming resorts on the stretch...and offers more than just food. The town and food are worth the trip!

The South isn't just about seafood; mouth watering burgers are served at many points on 30A. So, come on down y'all.