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MIAMI
| August 18, 2009

Aw, Shucks!
Road Trip to Apalachicola
Love oysters? Then have we got a pearl for you:
Apalachicola, the tiny coastal town known as the oyster
capital of the world.
On your way into Apalach (as the locals say), stop shy of
the first bridge and duck into
Angelo & Son’s for a taste of the world-famous mollusks.
The eatery overlooks Ochlockonee Bay (where the restaurant
catches its fresh seafood). And the most delicious oysters
you’ve ever tasted cost just four bucks a dozen.
Once
you arrive, check into the
Bryant House. Tucked off the main road, the B&B has
quiet, well-separated rooms at some of the best rates in the
area. Breakfast is German-style complete with homemade jams,
organic eggs, and a variety of meats and cheeses. They also
have a detached cottage for groups or for peeps with pets.
Wander
through the maze that surrounds Market Street and find
outstanding thrift, antique, and curiosity shops at every
turn. Explore authentic nautical finds at the
Tin Shed. Hit
Apalachicola Sponge Company for all-natural goat’s milk
soap. Don’t miss The Old Time Soda Fountain and their
phenomenal hot fudge (93 Market Street; 850-653-2606). Too
hot? Opt for the Gulf Breeze. The magical drink combines the
colorful coolness of sherbet with soda.
For
dinner, get thee to
Tamara’s Cafe. The wine list is solid, and the fresh
fish and Key lime pie are on point. When the sun sets,
Apalach gets even slower. For those not ready to succumb to
the lull, there’s a wine bar called
Verandas. The patio overlooks downtown and the stars
beyond. For some local culture, there’s the
Dixie Theatre, which hosts film fests, performances, and
local music acts (think Dixieland jazz).
St.
George Island State Park is frequently named one of the
best beaches in the U.S. It’s easy to find a quiet spot
along the miles of undeveloped Florida coastline. Fishing
enthusiasts go for the flounder, redfish, sea trout,
pompano, whiting, and Spanish mackerel. The state park also
has camping facilities for the more adventurous.
The world is your oyster.
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