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About Us

A Dining & Museum-Like Experience

Call Ahead Seating & To-Go Orders Available

When you’re craving a delicious meal at an affordable price, choose Magnolia Grill in downtown Fort Walton Beach, FL. We’re conveniently located on a quiet backroad, away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas, to provide a unique dining experience. As a family-owned and operated business, we’ve cultivated a warm and family-friendly environment perfect for family celebrations, couples, and friends who want to come together to have unforgettable experiences and enjoy a warm and delicious meal. Our lunch and dinner menu items are carefully prepared by our chefs and reflect the culture and community surrounding the area. You can expect a unique atmosphere, delicious food, and great people when you dine with us.

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Magnolia Grill sign and parking spaces

Learn About Our Story

In 1910, Dr. G.G. French ordered his new home from a catalog. The new home came in pieces and included everything needed to assemble a house by someone with minimal carpentry skills. It was shipped from New York to Pensacola by train before arriving at Camp Walton via barge. The two-story home was built on a low bluff overlooking Santa Rosa Island. The home’s original construction included two bedrooms upstairs, two more downstairs, a kitchen, a butler’s pantry, a living room, a bathroom, and more. Many of the home’s marquee features, including two chimneys and a spiral staircase, remain as a testament to the unique construction of the time.

Upgrades & Renovations

Throughout the years, the catalog home has undergone numerous renovations to update its interior, transform its curb appeal, and bring it up to code. During renovations, we uncovered the home’s original electrical. It was a primitive system consisting of two wires strung several inches apart and running on ceramic posts to the ceiling fixtures. It operated using a two-button push plate. Porches were added after the initial construction to transform the home’s façade. Despite the many upgrades, we’ve maintained the home’s original charm, including the diamond-pane windows and the oak and pine hardwood floors.

GG French Cottage information board

Preserving Our History

At Magnolia Grill, we’re dedicated to providing an opportunity for our guests to learn about the local history. Many Fort Walton Beach memorabilia can be found throughout our restaurant, including:

  • A Pair of Art Deco Chandeliers From the Home of Dr. J.H. Beal
  • Two Mission-Style Chairs Also From Dr. Beal
  • Decorative Millwork Which Once Graced the Dining Room of Perri’s Italian Restaurant
  • An Early Ft. Walton Streetlight of Green and White Baked Enamel
  • A “Fort Walton” City Limits Sign (Before “Beach” was Added)
  • The Original “This Light Never Turns Green” Sign Which Hung at Perry Avenue and U.S. Highway 98
  • And the Red-Lit Stoplight

Stop In for a Culinary Exploration of the Local Area

We’re committed to providing our guests with a truly unique experience that includes good food, great people, and a fun and engaging atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, getting together with friends and family, or simply looking to enjoy a night out, our doors are always open to you. We offer dine-in, take-out, as well as special event catering.

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Call Today for Call-Ahead Seating & To-Go Orders

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