The coastal town of Apalachicola is renowned for its rich maritime heritage and fresh seafood offerings, making it a haven for food enthusiasts and seafood lovers alike. At the heart of this culinary scene lies the Hole In The Wall Raw Bar And Seafood, a beloved local establishment celebrated for its authentic flavors and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The restaurant’s menu showcases the best of the Gulf Coast’s bounty, from succulent oysters to perfectly prepared fish dishes, offering a true taste of Apalachicola’s coastal charm.
Whether you’re a visitor seeking to indulge in fresh seafood or a local craving a reliable spot to savor classic dishes, Hole In The Wall Raw Bar And Seafood provides an impressive variety that caters to all palates.
Its menu balances simplicity and sophistication, emphasizing fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Each dish tells a story of the sea, crafted with care and passion by chefs who understand the value of quality and authenticity.
Exploring the menu is like embarking on a culinary journey through Apalachicola’s waters, where every bite captures the essence of the region’s aquatic treasures. From raw bar favorites to hearty entrees, the restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience that honors the spirit of the Gulf Coast.
Raw Bar Selections
The raw bar at Hole In The Wall is the centerpiece of the menu, showcasing a variety of fresh, locally sourced shellfish delivered daily. It is designed for those who appreciate the pure, briny flavors of the sea, served simply to highlight their natural freshness.
Oysters, a Gulf Coast staple, are the star attraction here. Offered both raw and chargrilled, these oysters reflect the unique salinity and richness of Apalachicola Bay waters.
The raw oysters come with classic accompaniments like lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and mignonette, allowing guests to customize their tasting experience.
In addition to oysters, the raw bar features clams, shrimp cocktail, and crab claws, all known for their impeccable freshness. Each selection is carefully prepared to maintain its texture and flavor, ensuring a satisfying start to any meal.
Signature Raw Bar Items
- Apalachicola Oysters: Sourced daily from local beds, renowned for their sweet and briny taste.
- Chargrilled Oysters: Topped with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese, offering a smoky twist.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Chilled Gulf shrimp served with tangy cocktail sauce for a refreshing bite.
- Snow Crab Claws: Steamed and served with drawn butter for a rich seafood indulgence.
“The raw bar is where the sea speaks loudest — every oyster and clam is a testament to Apalachicola’s rich waters and tradition.” – Chef at Hole In The Wall
Appetizers and Starters
Beyond the raw bar, the appetizer menu offers a creative array of dishes that complement the seafood theme while appealing to a broader audience. These starters are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light prelude to the main course.
One of the standout appetizers includes the fried green tomatoes topped with crab meat and remoulade sauce, a Southern classic reimagined with a seafood twist. The crispy texture paired with creamy, tangy flavors makes it a crowd favorite.
Another popular choice is the calamari, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, served alongside a house-made marinara and a lemon aioli. These starters exemplify the balance between traditional flavors and innovative presentations that Hole In The Wall is known for.
Popular Starters
- Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms: Button mushrooms filled with a savory crab mixture and baked with cheese.
- Fried Green Tomatoes with Crab: Crispy slices topped with fresh crab and remoulade sauce.
- Calamari: Tender rings fried and served with marinara and lemon aioli.
- Seafood Chowder: Rich and creamy, packed with shrimp, crab, and fresh vegetables.
Fresh Catch and Entrees
The entree section of the menu highlights the freshest fish and seafood selections caught daily from the Gulf. Each dish is carefully crafted to showcase the natural flavors of the fish, emphasizing simple yet effective cooking techniques.
Grilled, blackened, or fried, the fresh catch options cater to a variety of tastes. Popular fish selections include grouper, snapper, and mahi-mahi, each prepared to order and served with seasonal sides.
The entrees often come with options of rice, vegetables, or house-made coleslaw, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
For those seeking heartier fare, the menu also offers seafood pasta and surf-and-turf combinations that pair tender cuts of meat with succulent seafood. These dishes demonstrate the versatility and culinary creativity present at Hole In The Wall.
Entree Highlights
- Blackened Grouper: Spiced and seared to develop a flavorful crust, served with rice pilaf.
- Fried Snapper: Lightly battered and fried, paired with house-made tartar sauce.
- Mahi-Mahi Tacos: Grilled fish wrapped in corn tortillas with fresh salsa and avocado.
- Seafood Pasta: Linguine tossed with shrimp, scallops, and a garlic cream sauce.
| Fish | Preparation | Typical Side |
| Grouper | Blackened | Rice Pilaf & Steamed Veggies |
| Snapper | Fried | Coleslaw & Fries |
| Mahi-Mahi | Grilled (Tacos) | Salsa & Avocado |
Daily Specials and Seasonal Dishes
Hole In The Wall Raw Bar And Seafood takes pride in offering daily specials that reflect the freshest catches and seasonal ingredients. These specials allow the chefs to showcase their creativity while giving guests a chance to try unique or limited-time offerings.
Seasonal dishes often feature Gulf shrimp, crab, and rare fish varieties that are not always available on the standard menu. These specials are crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients, often incorporating local produce and spices.
Patrons are encouraged to ask servers about the daily specials as they provide an excellent opportunity to experience something new and different, keeping the dining experience fresh and exciting.
Example Specials
- Gulf Shrimp and Grits: Creamy stone-ground grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a spicy sauce.
- Crab Cakes: Made from fresh lump crab, pan-seared and served with remoulade.
- Blackened Redfish: Served with a tangy citrus beurre blanc.
“Our daily specials are a celebration of Apalachicola’s seafood heritage — always fresh, always inspired.” – Executive Chef
Beverage and Wine Pairings
The beverage menu at Hole In The Wall is thoughtfully curated to complement the seafood-centric menu. It includes a selection of local craft beers, classic cocktails, and an impressive wine list that pairs elegantly with the diverse flavors of the dishes.
White wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are popular choices that enhance the delicate flavors of oysters and grilled fish. For those preferring red wine, lighter options like Pinot Noir are available, providing a balanced accompaniment without overpowering the seafood.
The cocktail menu features refreshing and coastal-inspired drinks, including rum-based concoctions and citrus-forward blends that offer a perfect balance to the salty and savory seafood flavors.
Recommended Pairings
- Sauvignon Blanc: Ideal with oysters and light shellfish dishes.
- Chardonnay: Complements grilled fish and creamy pasta entrees.
- Pinot Noir: Pairs well with blackened or spiced fish.
- Classic Mojito: Refreshing and bright, perfect with fried seafood.
| Dish | Recommended Beverage |
| Raw Oysters | Sauvignon Blanc or Champagne |
| Blackened Grouper | Pinot Noir or Amber Ale |
| Shrimp Cocktail | Dry Rosé or Classic Mojito |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
After indulging in the rich flavors of the sea, the dessert menu offers a sweet finishing touch that is both satisfying and thoughtfully crafted. The desserts balance traditional Southern influences with a modern twist, providing a perfect conclusion to the meal.
Key dessert offerings include a decadent key lime pie, a nod to Florida’s citrus heritage, and a rich chocolate mousse that satisfies any sweet tooth. Seasonal fruit cobblers and ice cream selections also rotate, ensuring fresh and locally inspired tastes.
The dessert portion of the menu is designed not to overwhelm but to complement the seafood-centric meal, often featuring light, citrusy, or creamy textures that refresh the palate.
Featured Desserts
- Key Lime Pie: Tart and creamy, with a graham cracker crust.
- Chocolate Mousse: Smooth and rich, topped with whipped cream.
- Seasonal Fruit Cobbler: Made with fresh local fruits and a buttery crust.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Served with warm caramel sauce.
“Our desserts are crafted to provide the perfect harmony after a seafood feast — light yet indulgent.” – Pastry Chef
Family-Friendly Options and Kids Menu
Recognizing the diverse needs of its guests, Hole In The Wall offers a dedicated kids menu and family-friendly options that are both nutritious and flavorful. This ensures that diners of all ages can enjoy a satisfying meal in a comfortable environment.
The kids menu features simpler preparations of seafood favorites, such as grilled fish sticks, fried shrimp, and macaroni and cheese, designed to appeal to younger palates without sacrificing quality. Portion sizes are adjusted to suit children, making it easy for families to dine together without worry.
Additionally, the restaurant accommodates special dietary needs and preferences, offering gluten-free and allergy-aware options to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Kids Favorites
- Grilled Fish Sticks: Served with fries and a side of fruit.
- Fried Shrimp: Lightly battered with ketchup for dipping.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and comforting, a kid classic.
- Fresh Fruit Cup: A healthy and refreshing side option.
| Dish | Allergy-Friendly Options |
| Grilled Fish Sticks | Gluten-Free available on request |
| Fried Shrimp | Prepared without batter on request |
| Macaroni and Cheese | Dairy-free substitution available |
Conclusion
Hole In The Wall Raw Bar And Seafood in Apalachicola stands as a true testament to the region’s rich seafood tradition, offering a menu that expertly balances fresh, local ingredients with soulful preparation.
Every dish, from the pristine raw bar selections to the thoughtfully crafted entrees, reflects a commitment to quality and authenticity, inviting diners to savor the best of the Gulf Coast’s bounty.
The restaurant’s diverse menu accommodates a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, making it a welcoming destination for families, food connoisseurs, and casual diners alike. The inclusion of daily specials and seasonal dishes ensures that each visit brings new flavors and experiences, while the carefully chosen beverage pairings elevate the meal to a memorable occasion.
Whether you’re enjoying the briny freshness of Apalachicola oysters or indulging in a rich seafood pasta, Hole In The Wall provides an atmosphere where the spirit of the sea is celebrated in every bite.
It’s more than just a meal—it’s a culinary journey through one of Florida’s most cherished coastal communities, leaving guests eager to return and explore more of what the Gulf has to offer.
