If you’re cruising down Highway 30A and craving a spot that screams upscale beach vibes without the stuffiness, The Citizen at Alys Beach is your jam. I’ve popped in there a few times during my Emerald Coast adventures – once for a lazy brunch after hitting the sugar-white sands nearby, and another for happy hour oysters that had me hooked. Tucked right in the heart of Alys Beach’s pristine town center (20 Mark Twain Lane #101, FL 32461), this coastal tavern opened in 2021 by locals Jeremy and Angela Walton of Quest Hospitality. It’s all about celebrating global coastal flavors with fresh, seasonal Gulf ingredients – think wood-fired hearth cooking that adds that smoky Southern twist.

The vibe? Chic yet relaxed – marble bars, navy accents, a record player spinning tunes, and outdoor seating perfect for people-watching along 30A. They’re open for lunch/brunch Wed-Sun 10am-2pm, oyster happy hour daily 2-5pm (half-off select oysters, beers, wines), and dinner nightly 5-10pm. No strict dress code, but folks rock beach casual like sundresses or polos – fits right in with the area’s laid-back luxury.

Menu-wise, it’s seafood heaven: raw bar with Gulf, East, and West Coast oysters ($3-5 each), whipped feta with honey ($17), Gulf shrimp in Calabrian chilies ($20), or the Citizen burger ($20). Brunch standouts include Southern Eggs Benedict with tender pork shoulder or chocolate croissant French toast. Dinner ramps up with hearth-roasted grouper in coconut curry ($39) or squid ink bucatini. They’ve got vegan options like kale salad ($11), a kids’ menu, and a killer wine list. Portions are generous, but it’s upscale – expect $20-40 entrees.

Reviews as of mid-2025? Yelp’s at 4 stars from 226 folks, praising the fresh oysters, attentive bartenders, and pet-friendly patio. Tripadvisor’s 3.7/5 (30 reviews) notes excellent food like crab cakes but dings occasional slow service or waits (no resos for under 8; use Resy for limited spots or walk in). Some call it pricey, but worth it for the ambiance and quality – I agree, especially paired with a sunset stroll to the beach. Book via 850-909-0702 or Resy; it’s a must for any 30A foodie trip!