Must-Stop Shops and Local Favorites in Apalachicola
Waterfront eateries, historic hotels, chic shops and more in this revitalized oyster town.
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From left: Cape St. George Lighthouse, Gibson Inn, Owl Cafe, Grady Market and Half Shell Dockside. Illustration by Leslie Chalfont.
The Gibson Inn A 19th-century lumber center turned charming inn, the crown jewel of Apalachicola is steeped in Old Florida history. Stay in one of their 45 guestrooms and sip an evening cocktail on the wrap-around porch. 51 Ave. C
The Franklin Café Tucked away inside The Gibson Inn, this eatery serves scratch-made biscuits, crab cakes and pasta with bay scallops. Grab one of their signature drinks, like the Captain’s Ghost, and stop by on the weekends for the best brunch in town. 51 Ave. C
Downtown Books & Purl This two-in-one store is all things cozy, filled to the brim with yarn and new books. Find a new beach read from a myriad of shelves, ranging from classics and mysteries to romance and fantasy. Then, check off any knitting needs by shopping for new needles or hanks in all colors. 67 Commerce St.
Marilyn Brogan Jewelry Sustainability has always been at the forefront of Marilyn Brogan’s boutique jewelry store. Find pearl earrings, diamond engagement rings and custom necklaces, made with repurposed metals and ethically sourced gemstones. 236 Water St.
Owl Café A downtown staple for over a century, this neighborhood restaurant prides itself on serving up the best dishes on the Forgotten Coast, like local BBQ shrimp, duck confit fries, crab dip and Southern fried oysters. 15 Ave. D
Oyster City Brewing Co. Whether it’s on a T-shirt, a bumper sticker or an aluminum can, this brewing company’s brand is all over the Sunshine State. Crack open a Hooter Brown, a dark ale made with local Tupelo honey, or the Apalach IPA in the town where it all started. 25 Ave. D
Cape St. George LighthouseEight miles offshore stands a 77-foot-tall beacon that has called oystermen home for over 175 years. Built in 1848 and reconstructed in 2008, this landmark offers unparalleled views of sunsets and full-moon climbs. 2B E. Gulf Beach Drive
Grady Market Located in the former French consulate, this apparel and home goods store has everything from clothes to kitchen staples. Shop for an embroidered oyster ball cap, cologne, candles, drinkware and more. 76 Water St.
Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company After a culinary career spanning the United States and the Virgin Islands, chocolatier Kirk Lynch settled down in Apalach to raise his son and foster his second baby: a chocolate and coffee store boasting sweets from around the world. 75 Market St.
The Tin Shed Nautical & Antiques Sift through vintage portholes, wooden wheels and maritime maps at this seafaring thrift store. Don’t worry, there’s always a place in your home to display a 15-pound brass scuba diving helmet. 41 Market St.
Lafayette Park Soak in the views of Apalachicola Bay from under the cover of the gazebo or out on the pier of this neighborhood anchor. Located in the center of the historic home district, this park hosts parades, concerts and events like Porch Fest Apalach. 169 Ave. B
13 Mile Seafood Market Catch the freshest fish in the Panhandle without leaving the shore at this local seafood market. Dine on scallops, shrimp, triple tail, smoked mullet and more. Looking to take it home? 13 Mile will box up your purchase and put it on ice to keep it cool for the ride home. 227 Water St.
Live Oak Gallery When owners Andrea Comstock and Brian O’Meara restored a 1930s-era house under a massive live oak tree, they knew it was meant to be an art gallery. Stop by for a local artist’s show or take part in a watercolor demonstration. 156 Market St.
Half Shell Dockside Watch the boats go by while eating a grouper Reuben sandwich at this happening haunt. Take a photo in front of the iconic buoy wall covered in yellow, green, blue and pink buoys from top to bottom. 301 Market St.
Old Time Soda Fountain Take a trip to the 1950s for a root beer float at this old-fashioned pop bar. Sit down on a revolving bar stool and order a banana split, a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or a classic phosphate soda, then shop around for quirky souvenirs and witty stickers. 93 Ave. B
Bee Inspired Too It’s not a complete downtown shopping spree without stopping by this sunny, bespoke boutique. Choose from custom stationery and sea glass necklaces to painted wine glasses and hand-dyed silk scarfs. 56 Commerce St.
Battery Park Tucked under the John Gorrie Memorial Bridge, this bayside park is a hub for fishermen throwing lines off the pier or launching boats in the water during the early morning hours. Plus, it’s home to the annual Florida Seafood Festival. 1 Bay Ave.
Becasa This chic shop has its own eponymous line of modern beach apparel designed by store owner Emily Raffield. Find unique gifts made by local artisans alongside other high-style clothing brands, accessories and home decor sure to elevate any wardrobe or abode. 115 Commerce St.
