On the hunt for something a little different than your typical bar experience? Hit up Redd’s Fueling Station in Santa Rosa Beach. This funky bar offers the ultimate in music-based entertainment, complete with “singing and slinging” from the musical bartender Redd. Music also forms the basis of many other special events, including open mic night.
Helen Redd is the talented singer behind the success of Redd’s Fueling Station. She loves nothing more than to entertain an intimate crowd — an opportunity she enjoys almost daily during the watering hole’s evening shows. When she’s not singing her heart out, she’s working at the restaurant and bar with her husband.
When you arrive, you’ll notice that this location’s exterior looks little like that of your usual beach bar. From the outside, it resembles a quaint gas station. Once you step through the door, however, you’ll be enveloped in a satisfyingly kitschy atmosphere that encourages you to relax as you make conversation with friends and strangers alike. Don’t forget to look at the snarky signs, which are emblazoned with silly pictures and sarcastic captions.
While food isn’t technically the main attraction at Redd’s Fueling Station, it certainly complements the experience. The menu is loaded with a variety of appetizing options, which are divided into sections that reflect the bar’s gas station concept. Feel free to order a drink with your meal, but be careful — they’re typically quite strong.
A few of our favorite menu items include the following:
High Octane Nachos
The perfect appetizer to enjoy with a group during a show, these nachos are served southern-style with juicy brisket. They also come with all the essentials, including cheese, beans, jalapeno, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
Hot Fried Chicken Salad
Salad will feel like an indulgence with this order, which includes romaine tossed with pickled red onion and honey mustard vinaigrette. More importantly, this salad is topped with fried chicken tenders.
Lug Nuts and Hub Caps
These unusually named meatloaf sliders combine the best of bar and comfort food. They’re served with gravy and roasted red potatoes on the side.
Slow-Cooked Beer-Bathed Ribs
Meat lovers will rejoice upon spotting this menu item, with pork ribs available in both short and long racks. Both are filling enough to satisfy the hungriest visitors, especially as they’re served alongside cucumber salad and sweet potato fries.
Fish in a Pan
Redd’s isn’t strictly a seafood restaurant, but it does offer a few options that will suit those looking for a Gulf-style culinary experience. This particular dinner favorite includes pan-seared tilapia, as well as sides of roasted red potatoes and fresh veggies.
The hearty fare served at Redd’s Fueling Station is just one aspect of an all-encompassing experience that will delight all the senses while making you feel right at home. Get ready for a bar visit like no other.
Insider Tips:
– Finding a seat can be difficult on show nights — especially for groups of four or more people. To ensure your ability to attend a performance, make reservations in advance.
– Keep an eye on Redd’s Facebook page to get an idea of dinner specials and upcoming events.