Dishes of 30a – Shrimp Tacos and Zuppa Inglese

Story by Sarah Murphy Robertson

Chef James Dillon and his wife, Miriam, have been bringing authentically flavorful food to Rosemary Beach since, well, since Rosemary Beach originated! Their current restaurant space, SK Squared Café is on the corner of Main Street and just steps from the Western Green beach access. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a meal enjoyed with them always equals a casual and welcoming vibe.

One of their customers’ most popular orders is the gulf-fresh Shrimp Tacos. I was able to sample them and, wow, they are definitely worthy of all that praise. The Shrimp Tacos at SK Squared Café are available grilled or blackened and are seasoned deliciously. They have been marinated overnight in fresh herbs and garlic oil and are then served on warm tortillas with a cabbage slaw and kicky jalapeño lime crema. The tacos are also offered with grilled fish, smoked chicken, seared Ahi tuna, and tender steak. As with all of their vendors, Chef James tries to support locally whenever possible – especially with seafood purveyors.

Zuppa Inglese is a signature dessert Chef James has perfected with precision. He worked years ago at Borago in Grayton Beach and certainly has brought s0me of those Italian influences to his creations. This dessert is also a family favorite. So much so, that their daughter, Cami, remembers requesting it each year for her birthday “cake!” The Dillons also jokingly refer to it as “Tiramisu on steroids.” It is trifle-like: sponge cake soaked in a melded sweet Marsala wine and simple syrup mixture and layered with airy, whipped Mascarpone cheese and Belgian Chocolate. The creamy custard-like result only improves over time, and the day after this dessert is assembled it is even tastier. It is truly a “must order” and I know you’ll enjoy it.
Head down for a delicious meal at SK Squared Café very soon. Dine al fresco, listen to the sounds of the surf, and don’t forget to order dessert!

SK Squared Café is located at 78 Main St in Rosemary Beach.