Route 30A…a ‘Taste of Spring!’

by Julie Johnson, Tastemaker in Residence

Spring is a time that brings plenty of anticipation for sunshine and warm weather…especially for us Minnesotans!  Recently, we were teased with some warmer weather but I still needed a ‘taste of spring’ so I headed south to visit my parents in Destin, Florida.

Feeling up for a little adventure, my mom and I cruised down Route 30A from Destin, FL to Seaside, FL!  Spring was definitely in the air as we observed the scenic coastline while inhaling the fresh ocean breezes.  It was all in a quest to find some fresh produce (yes, I was craving fresh produce after the MN winter) at the Seaside Farmer’s Market.  

The Seaside Farmer’s Market was situated by a beautiful town amphitheater with live music accompanying shoppers.  We perused a variety of vendors and finally stumbled across Paul’s Pick of the Crop which offered mouth-watering brussel sprouts, sweet potatoes, and tri-colored carrots – the perfect pairing for fresh fish with dinner!  Honestly, I felt like I hit the jackpot!  Once we finished loading up on veggies, we made our way to the Modica Market which is located directly across from the Seaside Farmer’s Market.

Modica Market was the perfect place to grab a breakfast sandwich made with a fresh biscuit!  And when I say fresh, this biscuit was so soft and flaky, it literally melted in my mouth!  In addition to the great breakfast sandwich, this quaint market offers an assortment of cheeses, wine, and other gourmet goods.  In my opinion, this should be added to your ‘must-do’ list if you are ever in the Seaside, FL area!  

We finished out the morning by exploring more of the charming beach communities along Route 30A.  It truly is a paradise for nature lovers, shoppers, and diners alike!  Really, it was the most perfect way to get a “Taste of Spring!”