The Red Bar Makes Strong Return to South Walton

GRAYTON BEACH – Oct. 8, 2019 – The world-famous Red Bar will soon make its long-awaited return after the establishment beloved by many around the world burned down on Feb. 13, 2019.

“It’s just awesome to see the iconic Red Bar coming back,” Visit South Walton Executive Director Jay Tusa said at a groundbreaking ceremony on October 8, 2019 at the Red Bar’s original Hotz Avenue location.

At the ceremony, Red Bar owner Oliver Petit promised construction would begin the very next day.

“Eight months ago, we stood here bewildered. People were crying,” Petit said. “Today, eight months later, we are about to put a shovel in the ground.”

Walton County Commissioner Tony Anderson said the building that once stood has been in his life since he was 6-years-old. Anderson said plans to rebuild were approved the day of the fire to ensure the historic landmark was restored for Walton County history.

“The day this happened, we knew this was an institution burning down,” Anderson said. “This place meant so much to South Walton and Walton County.”

The Red Bar is a well-known and loved Walton County restaurant. Opened in the tiny town of Grayton Beach, Petit has been welcoming visitors from all over the world for the last 25 years. Construction of the Red Bar is expected to be completed by Memorial Day 2020.

“You can tell them loud and clear, we are coming back,” Petit said.

Link to photos of the ground-breaking ceremony: https://platform.crowdriff.com/m/s-awDJSoZsvNFo-iPN