Healthy Destin Restaurants

In honor of "American Heart Month," we're told that a healthy diet can greatly reduce the risk of heart disease. Luckily, Destin celebrates a healthy active lifestyle, which is complemented by wonderful health conscious restaurants and vegan cafes in South Walton and Destin, Fla.

Here's some of our top picks:

In South Walton, there is no better place for a vegan breakfast than the Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse in Grayton Beach. The Innkeeper cooks a fresh breakfast daily that includes muffins, fruit, quiches, frittatas, and organic and fair trade coffee, among other delights. Sit inside and enjoy the classic Florida memorabilia motif or step out into the garden and start your day with fresh coastal breezes under the majestic live oaks.

Down the street from Sanctuary at Redfish in Blue Mountain Beach, For the Health of It does a heart good. This locally operated organic food store carries fresh organic produce, herbs, spices, and environmentally friendly products. Step up the juice bar for a fresh, organic smoothie.

Or head down the street to Seaside, FL and visit our friends at Raw & Juicy. Located in the one of the classic airstream trailers lining Hwy 30A, Raw & Juicy serves raw food, vegan cuisine and some of the best smoothies in town.

Near Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort in Miramar Beach, Tommy Bahama's Restaurant and Bar at Grand Boulevard is an indulgently delicious way to eat healthy. While the menu does tempt with indulgent choices it also features ahi tuna, fish dishes and many vegan as well as gluten free options.

In Fort Walton Beach, our new favorite is Cafe Organic. The menu, which changes daily, features dishes that are made-from-scratch from organic ingredients. Menu items are selected based on what is fresh and in season from local organic farms.

We hope you'll enjoy the breadth of delicious, healthy dining options along the Emerald Coast!

Published by Tracy Louthain
Wednesday, February 27, 2013