For those who live for excellent Southern cuisine, Julie’s Southern Joy checks all the boxes. Expect a casual, kitschy atmosphere, warm, friendly service, and all the Southern staples served up in all their caloric glory. From fried okra to biscuits and gravy to chicken fried steak that’ll knock your socks off (in a good way), you’ll find it on the menu here. Don’t let the building’s old-fashioned, sky-blue exterior fool you. Though it might look a little outdated at first glance, Julie’s is a well-established favorite among locals and tourists thanks to their reasonable prices, large portions, prompt, friendly service, and mouthwatering food. It’s the hole-in-the-wall Southern restaurant you won’t want to miss if you’re in the Fort Walton Beach area.
Some of our favorite menu items include…
Fried Chicken
You’ll spot fried chicken on a lot of plates if you stop by Julie’s at lunchtime. One of their most popular dishes, the fried chicken is served up steaming hot, battered with a not-too-thick, not-too-thin breading, and beautifully seasoned. Enjoy with a side of greens, fried okra, home fries, or another favorite, and you’ll have a well-rounded Southern meal that’s well worth the calories.
Chicken Pot Pie
A buttery, flaky crust, creamy, savory filling, and overabundance of flavor are marks of this Southern comfort food, and Julie’s knocks it out of the park. Though chicken pot pie can be hard to nail, Julie’s manages to get it just right every time.
Biscuits
You’re not truly an excellent Southern restaurant unless you can make consistently excellent biscuits. Expect light, flaky, buttery biscuits every time at Julie’s, whether you’re ordering them as a breakfast staple or as a side with your lunch or dinner entree. Reviewers consistently mention the biscuits and Julie’s homemade honey butter, and we have to agree: they’re fan favorites for good reason.
Burgers
Julie’s Southern Joy has a variety of sandwiches–from BBQ chicken and bacon to burgers–on the menu. Although all their sandwiches are good, the burgers are particularly excellent–substantial patties, well-seasoned and freshly made to order, served on a warm buttered bun. For a particularly indulgent choice, go for the mac & cheeseburger and enjoy every bite.
Julie’s Southern Joy is located a couple of blocks from Garniers Beach Park on Hwy 85 in Fort Walton Beach. It’s easily accessible, whether you’re walking or driving from the nearby area.
Insider Tips:
– Julie’s Southern Joy is closed on the weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
– A generous kid’s menu and group-friendly dining make this a great stop for larger families.