3 for 30a- Around the world on 30A

By Natalie Haddock

After spending last weekend celebrating the red white and blue of America, this week’s 3 for 30A is about exploring the rest of the color palate, well really the flavor palate, that makes this country so beautiful…and tasty. We are sharing some of the best in exotic cuisine and flavors from around the world that can be found right here on the good ‘ole U.S. 30A.

Friday, July 10 – In Blue Mountain beach there is a little tucked away restaurant called Basmati’s with traditional Asian cuisine in an a southern-like atmosphere. Their cozy candlelit screened porch is a great place to relax and listen to the summer crickets while sipping a spicy ginger martini. On a warm afternoon try one of their fresh salads, made with locally grown and organic vegetables or the delicious crab and asparagus egg drop soup. Sushi options are available starting at 5 pm and Happy Hour is offered 5-6pm with half priced appetizers, wine beer, and well drinks. Dinner options include such enticing dishes as the tempura fried Firecracker Grouper, Teriyaki Beef Tenderloin with mushrooms and onions, and of course wok Fried Rice. Basmati’s is open for dinner 7 days a week 5-10 and for lunch Monday through Friday 11-2:30.

Saturday, July 11 – Saturday night is date night so grab your amore for a beautiful evening at Borago’s Italian Restaurant in Grayton Beach. This classic Trattoria serves robust, homemade pasta and primi dishes in a homey yet contemporary setting. Start with an antipasti dish of seared scallops with soft cheese polenta and a roasted tomato butter sauce or the wild mushroom ravioli. Entrees include Chicken or Veal Piccata, Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin, and the Grilled Salmon with white cheddar grit cakes. Of course angel hair pasta, linguine, and penne pasta are all available and can be described as simply delizioso. After dinner take a moment to admire the soft lighting in the courtyard as you sip on the house bellini or a glass of wine.

Sunday, July 12 – For a little bit of Mexico in South Walton, look no further than La Chaulpita Mexican Market and Restaurant. The market offers some imported specialty items while the family restaurant serves up authentic favorites hot and full of flavor. The restaurant isn’t pouring a million margaritas so feel free to purchase a cerveza or cane sugar soda through the market side and then step over to the counter for food ordering. The sweet and savory Tacos Pastor (tacos with pork and pineapple) is made more craveable only by the homemade tortillas. You won’t find any chips and salsa or cheese for these bad boys but make each dish your own from the available toppings such as onions, tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, pico de gallo, and various sauces. Stop in this Sunday for lunch or an early dinner!