Nearly five months after a million dollar auction, the beloved St. George Island hangout spot once prized for its seafood, steaks and cocktails has made a comeback with a new name and refreshed vibe they say will have you “ready to relive the good ole days one cold drink at a time.”
Say goodbye to Harry A’s Bar & Grill and hello to Sand Bar Kitchen + Tavern.
“We’re proud of what this place was. Even more excited for what it’s becoming,” the company wrote in a Facebook post May 28.
The new concept on 28 West Bay Shore Drive introduced itself in a post on Facebook, letting longtime patrons know that their doors are back open for operation.
“What was once a local landmark has been completely rebuilt into something fresh for the Forgotten Coast — without losing the laid-back spirit that made this spot special to begin with,” it said. “Cold drinks, fresh seafood, open-air vibes, and a place built for long afternoons, sunset cocktails, and good company.”
Alongside seafood favorites, the menu also includes craft beer, smoked wings, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Eastpoint residents and longtime fans — many of whom once recognized the space as the perfect, casual getaway destination — reacted with excitement in the comments of the introductory post.
One user said, “Thank you for all your effort & energy to re invent this SGI landmark – we are excited to visit later today.”
Another user said, “Just finished a meal here. Good food, great atmosphere! Hoping this is a long lasting success.”
The road to reopening
For decades, the hangout spot was a home to many locals whether they stopped in for breakfast or a late night dinner. Category 5 Hurricane Michael of 2018 may have taken a jab at the restaurant, but it couldn’t take its spirit.
The new renovations only added a fresh feel to the 6,875-square-foot space which features indoor and outdoor seating, an outdoor courtyard with two stages and enough room for about 250 guests.
On Jan. 21 the restaurant Harry A’s Bar & Grill had a foreclosure sale at the Franklin County Courthouse. Bidding started at $500,000 and came to a close when new owner Cody McCray, by way of Tennessee, placed a bid for $1.475 million against the bank’s $1.426 million.
Sold!
Owner McCray has had his hand in the hospitality sector for years. He is owner of Cedar City Brewing Co. and popular restaurant Town Square Social both located in Tennessee.
McCray has been known to revitalize spaces, according to an article from the Tennessean his restaurant, “known for its smoked offerings like chicken and wings and live music on Friday nights… has been central to the square’s revitalization,” a downtown area in the city.
Kyla A Sanford covers dining and entertainment for the Tallahassee Democrat. New restaurant opening up, special deals, or events coming up? Let me know at ksanford@tallahassee.com. You can also email your suggestions for a future TLH Eats restaurant profile.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: St. George Island landmark Harry A’s Bar & Grill reopens with new name
Reporting by Kyla A Sanford, Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
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