Our Legacy and Mission
About Stewby’s
Welcome to Our Table:
The STEWBY’S Story
POPULAR QUESTIONS
So here’s The Lowdown, on our most asked questions. If these FAQ’s don’t satisfy your curiosity, use our nifty form to send us a message!
From Humble Beginnings …
Oh boy, let me tell you about those early days on Racetrack Road! When I first started Stewby’s, I had a vision for serving up the freshest, most delicious seafood around, but I didn’t have much in the way of funds or resources. So, I got creative.
I found this old portable classroom building that nobody was using anymore and thought, “Hey, with a little elbow grease and a whole lot of love, I could turn this into something special.” So, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work, transforming that humble little building into the first Stewby’s Seafood Shanty.
Now, I’ll admit, it was a bit of a gamble setting up shop so far from the beach and the tourist hotspots. Folks around town thought I was crazy, telling me, “Stewby, nobody’s gonna drive all the way out to Racetrack Road for seafood!” But I just smiled and kept on cooking, because I knew that once people got a taste of our fresh, perfectly fried seafood and felt the warmth of our hospitality, they’d be hooked.
And you know what? Those naysayers couldn’t have been more wrong! Before long, word started spreading about the little seafood shack on Racetrack Road that was serving up the best darn plates of fried shrimp, oysters, and fish around. Locals started pouring in, and then something incredible happened – tourists started seeking us out, too!
I remember stepping outside one day and being blown away by the sight of our parking lot. It was full to the brim with cars from all over the country – license plates from Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, you name it! Folks were driving miles out of their way, bypassing all the beachside restaurants, just to get a taste of Stewby’s.
It warmed my heart to know that people appreciated the love and care we put into every plate, and that they were willing to go the extra mile (quite literally!) to support our little dream. That’s when I knew we had something truly special going on at Stewby’s.
From those humble beginnings in that old portable classroom building, Stewby’s has grown into a local institution, with multiple locations across the Emerald Coast. But no matter how much we grow, we never forget our roots or the values that got us started – serving up the freshest seafood with a heaping side of Southern hospitality, and always treating our customers like family.
So, if you ever find yourself on Racetrack Road, be sure to swing by the original Stewby’s Seafood Shanty and soak up a little piece of our history. And while you’re there, grab yourself a plate of our famous fried shrimp – trust me, it’s worth the drive!
Contact Stewby
From Sam’s Heart to Your Plate
Hey there! Stewart Taylor here, inviting you into the world of STEWBY’S Seafood Shanty. Our story isn’t just about seafood; it’s about family, legacy, and a love for the local catch that runs deep in our bones. It all started with my dad, Sam Taylor, a visionary who saw the beauty in what others overlooked. Sam’s Oyster House wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a beacon of innovation in the late ’60s, bringing the once-dismissed amberjack into the limelight and into the hearts of our community.
When Sam’s Oyster House transitioned into new hands, it wasn’t the end but a pivotal moment for us to dream bigger. STEWBY’S was born from a deep-rooted desire to carry forward my father’s pioneering spirit and his delicious recipes. Our essence is stitched together with the threads of Sam’s legacy, wrapped in the warmth of our family’s dedication to serving you the freshest, most delectable seafood around.
Our Family’s Promise to Yours
Pull up a chair and let me share with you what makes STEWBY’S special. It’s like gathering at a family table where the food is hearty, the laughter is loud, and the stories flow as freely as the sweet tea. We’ve kept the heart of Sam’s alive, blending beloved family recipes with fresh takes that keep our menu as lively as our diners.
Every fish, shrimp, and scallop we serve is more than a meal; it’s a piece of our history, straight from the Destin docks to your dish. Our sides, sauces, and seasoning? All homemade, with no shortcuts, because that’s how we believe good food should be made. And our world-famous seafood gumbo? It’s a hug in a bowl, full of the rich flavors of the Gulf.
A Seat at Our Table
Our doors are open wide, not just to serve food, but to welcome friends old and new into our family. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, we promise the best quality seafood at prices that keep you coming back for more. With a casual vibe and a menu that speaks of our heritage, STEWBY’S is a place where every visit feels like coming home.
Our journey from a single location to four lovingly run restaurants across Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Okaloosa Island is a testament to the love we pour into every plate. And at STEWBY’S Steamer and Market, you can even take a piece of our heart home with you, from our steamed delicacies to our secret spices and ingredients.
Join Our Story
So, here we are, a family-owned spot where the welcome mat is always out, and the seafood is always fresh. As we look to the future, we’re excited not just to grow, but to continue sharing our story with you—one plate at a time. At STEWBY’S, you’re more than guests; you’re part of our ongoing saga, filled with flavor, family, and the freshest catch. Welcome to STEWBY’S, where every meal is a celebration of where we’ve come from and where we’re going, together.
Introducing Stewby’s Steamer & Market: Your One-Stop Shop for the Freshest Seafood on the Emerald Coast
We were looking for authentic steamed seafood. Stewby’s Market was off the chain awesome. It was steamed to perfection. crab legs, crawfish and gulf shrimp. Forget eating out. Went to market, they steamed, took back to beachfront condo and enjoyed the flavorful goodness on our balcony overlooking the gulf. Doesn’t get better than this. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
Hey there, seafood lovers! Stewby here, inviting y’all to come on down to Stewby’s Steamer & Market, right next door to our second Stewby’s Seafood Shanty location on beautiful Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Now, I know you’re already well acquainted with the fresh, delicious seafood and warm hospitality we serve up at our restaurants, but let me tell you, our Steamer & Market is truly something special.
First off, if you’re in the mood for a steamed seafood extravaganza, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got a steamed dinner menu that’ll make your taste buds sing, featuring our famous steamed crawfish, succulent shrimp, flaky grouper, and more. All of it’s caught fresh from the Gulf and prepared with the same love and care we put into everything we do at Stewby’s.
But that’s not all – our Steamer & Market is also your go-to spot for bringing home the freshest seafood on the Emerald Coast. We work hand-in-hand with our local fishermen to bring you the very best shrimp, grouper, and other Gulf delicacies, so you can whip up your own seafood masterpieces at home. Trust me, once you’ve tasted the difference of truly fresh, locally caught seafood, you’ll never go back.
Now, I know y’all love showing off your Stewby’s pride, and that’s why we’ve got a fantastic selection of Stewby’s swag at our Steamer & Market. From our stylish men’s and women’s t-shirts to our top-notch hats, coolers, and koozies, we’ve got everything you need to let the world know that you’re part of the Stewby’s family. And trust me, once you’re part of the family, there’s no going back!
But you know what really warms my heart? Seeing our customers support local businesses and our hardworking fishermen. Every time you dine with us, shop at our market, or rock our gear, you’re not just getting the best of the Gulf – you’re also helping to keep our community thriving. And that, my friends, is what Stewby’s is all about.
So come on over to Stewby’s Steamer & Market and experience the fresh flavors, warm hospitality, and coastal charm that we’re known for. Whether you’re joining us for a steamed seafood feast, stocking up on the freshest catches, or just looking to add a little Stewby’s style to your life, we’re always here to welcome you with open arms.
As I always say, life’s too short to eat anything but the freshest seafood, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Stewby’s Steamer & Market. So come on down, pull up a chair, and let’s celebrate the best of the Gulf together!
Want affordable seafood that actually fresh?
Eat where the locals eat!
STEWBY'S Seafood Shanty
427 Racetrack Road Northwest, Fort Walton Beach
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My family and I had a great experience here. The cashier was so welcoming and informative. The food was delicious and great service too. We will definitely be back when we visit Florida! -
Food was delicious! I really enjoyed the fried oysters. And the onion rings were spectacular!! Prices are very reasonable compared to other restaurants in the area. Faye was so kind and friendly. The staff when I ordered was very helpful. … More
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This is the first time I’ve visited the Fort Walton location. It’s very low frills, but the food was equally delicious to the one by the beach. The best part was there was a very short line when I usually have to wait quite a while at the … More busier location. We ended up getting grouper and crab claws, along with onion rings and okra. Everything was fresh and delicious. The grouper was mild and flaky, and the remolaude that came with it was delicious. This location even has a drive up window. It looks like you can just pull up and order and pick it up at the window, which is so convenient. One of the reasons we love this Pace is the prices are very reasonable for so near the beach.
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Absolutely AMAZING food. The workers were super friendly, it was a very welcoming atmosphere, we felt like family! Will definitely be going back!
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Ft. Walton/Destin is a tourist trap. Most tourist trap don't have good food and this area is no exception, so it was nice to find STEWBY'S. The staff were very friendly and polite. They obviously liked working there because they … More displayed what appeared to be genuine affection in their interactions. The restaurant was spotless.
We tried the fried fish tacos, gumbo, fried Okra, and the fried shrimp dinner. The food was fresh and delicious. Portion size was great for the price. We definitely left there full and satisfied. I highly recommend this place! -
Loved this place, went drive through, so didn't see the inside. The food was the bomb. The shrimp tacos were the best I've ever had, period!! I'd never tried gumbo before, so I must say it was delicious, grilled shrimp was … More excellent as well. My family and I will definitely be back.
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Great spot! I guess this is the epitome of "where the locals go." The fish is always fresh, they use their own seasoning (which you can buy) and it's very good. Sides are traditional to a southern menu. Good variety of menu, … More and generous portion sizes. Also, probably the best cup of gumbo in town! Highly recommend Stewby's. Place isn't huge so expect a wait if you arrive after 5 or so, but well worth it!
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Stewby's is a fun, super-casual, "picnic table indoors" kind of place! So, the atmosphere is "mid-century fishing dock", which is functional and relaxed.
The food is very good. I had a blackened grouper, which … More was excellent, along with some greens, a side salad, and a cup of their gumbo. Which I found to be a bit watery but very flavorful.
Stewby's is an "order-at-the-window" kind of joint, but the staff were super friendly and liked to give it back when I joked around with them.
A fun, casual place with very good food, served quickly and with a smile! But don't expect fast food prices. My lunch (in the picture, plus a large sweet tea) was just over $25. A fair price for what I got.
Check out Steeby's on Racetrack in Fort Walton Beach, Florida! It's worth it. -
Fish tacos were SO great! Very flavorful. We loved the fried and the grilled for different reasons. Grilled were a little more moist and the fried had a great crunch without being greasy. Can’t go wrong with either. We also loved the Shanty … More Pie.
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This place is awesome. It's very small but seems to stay very busy. Just sown the road from our air bnb, and we were in the mood for something quick and simple to eat before our activities for the day. I'm glad we stopped here. … More
I had the fish tacos with whatever the fish of the day was. They were amazing 👍 -
Love their shrimp fried Tacos and fries combo. Been coming for a few weeks and can't get enough of it. I am still yet to taste more of their great food. I will do a following review as i taste other foods in their menu.
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Excellent seafood and prices the locals appreciate. I had the grilled colossal shrimp and a friend had grilled fish of the day (Amber Jack). The dinners came with sides and hush puppies. Terrific seasoning and flavor. Recommended.Food: … More 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 3/5Recommended dishes
Grilled Fish, Fresh Seafood …More -
This was our first time there and we loved it. My wife has a pepper allergy and they stayed on top of that! Our food was delicious and the service was great.Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: … More 5/5Recommended dishes
Seafood, Grilled Fish, Fried …More -
This place is great!! We had soft crabs, potato salad, and greens. My husband also had a side of gumbo. Everything was fantastic!!!!!!! The young lady at the register was so helpful! She gave us suggestions., boy am I glad we went with … More her suggestions!! We will definitely be back. We want to try the fried oysters next time.
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No fuss place. They put the money into the food and provide basic seating to keep pricing reasonable for hungry folks who crave seafood.Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes … More
Seafood, Fresh Seafood
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free parking lot …More -
Yes, it is a shanty and you order at a window. But the food is spectacular and as affordable as any seafood you can find. Very highly recommend and well worth a trip.Food: 5/5 | Service: 4/5 | Atmosphere: … More 4/5Recommended dishes
Seafood, Fried, Fresh Seafood, Grouper …More -
Yummy. Greens were really good. Fried shrimp was so tasty. Place was clean, friendly staff. I would recommend this place. Food was fresh and hot.Recommended dishes
Fried Okra, Seafood, Fresh Seafood …More -
Every time I go past on my way to and fro, Stewby's is packed. I was asking Google to take me to a big fish sandwich, and it took me past Stewby's to CapnDs. Why not, I have time to kill today.Captain D's is dead to me now.4 … More stars on food because they discontinued cornbread.I love cornbread with seafood and BBQ.Dae and Ellis were absolutely amazing in sorting this 'first-timer'.Parking: Parking extends to gravel lots behind restaurant.Wheelchair accessibility: Wheelchair ramp at the rear.
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Food was AMAZING! This is my favorite place to get seafood as a local !!! I wish they had one in destin but this location was great. Clean and good service. My favorite is the mahi mahi sandwich !!!
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Quaint little seafood place that has quality food for an affordable price! Take a break from the over priced tourist traps and visit Stewby's which feels like a friendly neighborhood eatery.Food: 5/5 | Service: … More 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5 …More
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I'm an out of town occasional diner. I always visit Stewbys because the food is always good. I recommend the grilled Mahi Mahi, grilled Amberjack, and grilled Colossal Shrimp. Their fried Mullet is good if you don't mind a slightly … More fishy taste. If you're lucky enough to find Snapper on the menu, it's worth the price. If you haven't tried fish tacos, Stewbys are really tasty. Green beans, slaw, seasoned fries, and colards are all good side choices. Today, I tried their onion rings. I will be ordering those again soon. The fried okra is another great selection. My wife and I sometimes split a Shanty Pie to top our meal off. The sweet tea is good.Many times, it's crowded. The diners have always been friendly and willing to share their table. There are some picnic tables around back which we enjoy when the weather is comfortable.
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Always hot, fast, and delicious! We especially love the grilled shrimp but the mahi or amberjack sandwich are favorites too!Recommended dishes
Snapper, Seafood …More -
1st time eating at this amazing restaurant, and we were 1000% satisfied with the food, portions, and the atmosphere! Will absolutely recommend to any one who wants delicious seafood!!Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | A … Moretmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes
Popcorn Shrimp, Seafood, Fried
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot …More -
Ordered the fried chicken tender dinner with coleslaw and potato salad and the food was fresh, hot and delicious! My husband got the fried shrimp dinner with fries and baked beans and he really liked it. And he’s not really a big seafood … More person! The food here did not disappoint and we look forward to coming back and trying other meals on the menu.
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Service Dog friendly. Handicap accessible. GREAT staff. Alas, no delivery yet wonderful pickup and dining roomFood: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes
Seafood Shanty, Seafood, … More Fried, Seasoned Fries
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot, Free street parking …More -
Great food! Lunchtime was a little noisy and that made it hard to hear when your order was ready. I will most likely eat here again.Food: 5/5 | Service: 4/5 | Atmosphere: 4/5Recommended dishes … More
Seafood …More -
Customer service was excellent! Ms. Faye is so sweet and friendly. Food was very good and reasonably priced. Will definitely be back.Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5 …More
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I really loved their fried flounder. The hush puppies were crispy and light. Price was reasonableFood: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes
Fried Okra, Fried …More -
Consistently good seafood. Didn't have bad experience here yet. Customer service is pleasant. Will be back.Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes
Fried Okra, Side Popcorn … More Shrimp, Seafood, Grilled Fish, Fried, Grouper
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot …More -
Loved this place. We placed our seafood order at the counter, and they served it hot and tasty!Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5Recommended dishes
Seafood, Fresh Seafood …More
STEWBY'S Seafood Shanty
427 Racetrack Road Northwest, Fort Walton Beach
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My family and I had a great experience here. The cashier was so welcoming and informative. The food was delicious and great service too. We will definitely be back when we visit Florida!
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Food was delicious! I really enjoyed the fried oysters. And the onion rings were spectacular!! Prices are very reasonable compared to other restaurants in the area. Faye was so kind and friendly. The staff when I ordered was very helpful. … More
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This is the first time I’ve visited the Fort Walton location. It’s very low frills, but the food was equally delicious to the one by the beach. The best part was there was a very short line when I usually have to wait quite a while at the … More busier location. We ended up getting grouper and crab claws, along with onion rings and okra. Everything was fresh and delicious. The grouper was mild and flaky, and the remolaude that came with it was delicious. This location even has a drive up window. It looks like you can just pull up and order and pick it up at the window, which is so convenient. One of the reasons we love this Pace is the prices are very reasonable for so near the beach.
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Absolutely AMAZING food. The workers were super friendly, it was a very welcoming atmosphere, we felt like family! Will definitely be going back!
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Ft. Walton/Destin is a tourist trap. Most tourist trap don't have good food and this area is no exception, so it was nice to find STEWBY'S. The staff were very friendly and polite. They obviously liked working there because they … More displayed what appeared to be genuine affection in their interactions. The restaurant was spotless.
We tried the fried fish tacos, gumbo, fried Okra, and the fried shrimp dinner. The food was fresh and delicious. Portion size was great for the price. We definitely left there full and satisfied. I highly recommend this place! -
Loved this place, went drive through, so didn't see the inside. The food was the bomb. The shrimp tacos were the best I've ever had, period!! I'd never tried gumbo before, so I must say it was delicious, grilled shrimp was … More excellent as well. My family and I will definitely be back.
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Great spot! I guess this is the epitome of "where the locals go." The fish is always fresh, they use their own seasoning (which you can buy) and it's very good. Sides are traditional to a southern menu. Good variety of menu, … More and generous portion sizes. Also, probably the best cup of gumbo in town! Highly recommend Stewby's. Place isn't huge so expect a wait if you arrive after 5 or so, but well worth it!
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Stewby's is a fun, super-casual, "picnic table indoors" kind of place! So, the atmosphere is "mid-century fishing dock", which is functional and relaxed.
The food is very good. I had a blackened grouper, which … More was excellent, along with some greens, a side salad, and a cup of their gumbo. Which I found to be a bit watery but very flavorful.
Stewby's is an "order-at-the-window" kind of joint, but the staff were super friendly and liked to give it back when I joked around with them.
A fun, casual place with very good food, served quickly and with a smile! But don't expect fast food prices. My lunch (in the picture, plus a large sweet tea) was just over $25. A fair price for what I got.
Check out Steeby's on Racetrack in Fort Walton Beach, Florida! It's worth it. -
Fish tacos were SO great! Very flavorful. We loved the fried and the grilled for different reasons. Grilled were a little more moist and the fried had a great crunch without being greasy. Can’t go wrong with either. We also loved the Shanty … More Pie.
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This place is awesome. It's very small but seems to stay very busy. Just sown the road from our air bnb, and we were in the mood for something quick and simple to eat before our activities for the day. I'm glad we stopped here. … More
I had the fish tacos with whatever the fish of the day was. They were amazing 👍
From Our Reviewers …
