Pensacola Beach’s Newest Dining Destinations
PENSACOLA, FL — Two new concepts joining Pensacola Beach are unveiled just in time for spring: The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company, a fresh take on coastal southern cuisine that combines elevated dining with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, and Hideaway Beach Bar, that offers a more casual vibe and food truck. Located at the former Whiskey Joe’s Pensacola Beach site, the two new establishments are set to officially open their doors to the public on April 8, 2025.
Focusing on locally sourced ingredients, The Wharf’s menu celebrates the best of Gulf Coast flavors. Guests searching for a ‘seafood restaurant near me‘ can look forward to signature dishes like the Gulf Oysters Rockefeller, Seafood Boil, and the Gulf Grouper BLT. Their commitment to quality extends to every plate, highlighting local fish, beef, and produce from purveyors in Northwest Florida, including 196 Black Garlic Market, Maria’s Seafood, and more. The drink menu will feature cocktails that will wow guests like the Paid Vacation created with vodka, infused with passion fruit and tarragon, and buzz flower, served in a hanging bowl. Gin lovers will enjoy the specialty cocktail, “A Cherry Good Time” made with citrus gin, filthy black cherry syrup, and lemonade.
The culinary vision for both concepts is led by Executive Chef, Kara Mardell, whose culinary journey began on a Kentucky farm, where she mastered the art of sustainable cooking using ingredients from her family’s garden. A Northwest Florida resident since 2019, Mardell brings a fresh perspective to Gulf Coast dining by blending her Kentucky roots with a passion for locally sourced ingredients, rotating flavor profiles, and dishes that connect with guests in a meaningful way.
“Our goal is to intertwine incredible southern and Gulf Coast flavors with every dish,” said Kara Mardell, Executive Chef at The Wharf and Hideaway. “We’re proud to source our ingredients from local purveyors, offering the freshest fish and beef, and produce in ways that are both creative and approachable.”
In addition to its culinary offerings, The Wharf boasts seven versatile event spaces, making it a top destination for private gatherings and special events. From intimate parties of 50 to large celebrations for up to 2,500 guests, the venue’s private white sand beach and outdoor pavilion provide the perfect backdrop for birthdays, weddings, corporate events, and more.
The event menus offer something for every occasion, including lunch, brunch, and even tailored student packages. Best of all, The Wharf embraces an à la carte approach that allows planners to customize their special event experience. The team lives by the motto, “It’s your party, plan it your way.” With menus designed to meet a variety of needs and budgets, there are options for plated or buffet-style packages, stunning displays, passed hors d’oeuvres, and chef-attended action stations.
In addition to The Wharf, the Hideaway Beach Bar will also debut this spring. Located just below The Wharf right on the sand, this waterfront hotspot offers a more laid-back vibe, featuring a food truck, volleyball courts, and fire pits. The menu will house their signature 50/50 Double Smash Burger, made up of 50% Bacon and 50% Angus beef, and a selection of fun frozen and beachy specialty cocktails like the Beachfront Mojito, or the Getting Barrelled, served in the Hideaway souvenir cup.
“Hideaway is all about fun and relaxation,” said Jake Rossman, Director of Operations. “Whether you’re here for the cocktails, live music, or just to hang out with friends, Hideaway is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the beach.”
To prepare for the grand opening, The Wharf will host a Job Fair from February 3 to 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. The restaurant is hiring for all positions and invites interested candidates to stop by and meet the team. During the Job Fair, The Wharf team will conduct interviews and start the initial onboarding process. Those interested can learn more and apply for a position here: https://bit.ly/WharfJobFair.
The Wharf and Hideaway will host an official grand opening celebration March 13-16, inviting locals to enjoy live music, and a punch card passport encouraging guests to explore the various locations on the property, including the Hideaway food truck and event spaces. In a special partnership with Defenders of Freedom, a nonprofit organization supporting post-9/11 veterans through emergency financial assistance, morale-boosting programs, and traumatic brain injury treatment, the event will also give attendees a chance to make a meaningful impact. Locals will have the opportunity to join the 850 Locals Club by showing their Escambia or Santa Rosa County ID. Locals will receive a commemorative bottle opener keychain that will offer them access to monthly specials, rotating throughout the year. More details on the grand opening celebration will be provided soon.
Located on the Pensacola Boardwalk with views of the Intracoastal, The Wharf Fish & Oyster Co., and Hideaway Beach Bar are poised to become must-visit destinations for locals and visitors alike. With exceptional dining, Pensacola Beach private events, and a one-of-a-kind beach bar experience, these new restaurants embody the best of Pensacola’s charm. For more information about menus, events, or hiring opportunities, please visit TheWharfFishCo.com, call (850) 706-5300, and follow The Wharf on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok as well as the Hideaway on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
About The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company:
The Wharf Fish & Oyster Company is Pensacola Beach’s premier dining destination, offering an elevated yet approachable experience that features the flavors of the Gulf Coast. With a menu rooted in locally sourced seafood, beef, and produce, The Wharf redefines coastal dining with standout dishes. Situated on the Pensacola Boardwalk overlooking the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, the seafood restaurant in Pensacola FL also features event spaces accommodating gatherings from intimate parties to large-scale celebrations of up to 2,500 guests. Whether dining with family, hosting a special event, or enjoying a relaxing evening by the water, The Wharf is dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for every guest. For more information and reservations please visit TheWharfFishCo.com, call (850) 706-5300, and follow The Wharf on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
About Hideaway Beach Bar:
Hideaway Beach Bar brings a fun energy to Pensacola Beach, offering a casual beachside escape with a modern twist. Known for its signature 50/50 Double Smash Burger and beachy cocktail menu-including frozen favorites like the Beachfront Mojito-Hideaway blends casual vibes with fun flavors. Guests can relax with their feet in the sand, and gather around fire pits while enjoying waterfront views of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Whether you’re grabbing a bite from the food truck or sipping on the Getting Barrelled cocktail, served in the Hideaway souvenir cup, Hideaway is the go-to spot for fun, sun, and good times. To learn more about Hideaway Beach Bar, please call (239) 294-1768, and follow Hideaway on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
PR Contact:
Whitney Lee
(850) 974-2002