NSB Area Sigunature Series - Coastal Flavors

NEW SMYRNA BEACH AREA
COASTAL
FLAVORS
WINE COUNTRY
MEETS THE COAST
CULINARY RYTHMS
ON FLAGLER AVENUE
NOVEMBER 2025
ISSUE NO. 01
Photography by Spanish River Grille

TABLE
of
CONTENTS
EDITOR NOTES
Experience Guides
MORE ADVENTURES
Plan the Perfect Getaway
DINING IN THE CANOPY
Norwoords Tree House
DOCKSIDE DINING - FROM MARINA TO MENU
Outriggers Tiki Bar and Grille
WINE COUNTRY MEETS THE COAST
SoNapa Grille
TROPICAL TIDES AND TIKI BITES
Avanu on Flagler
IBERIAN HEAT ON FLORIDA SHORES
Spanish River Grill
04
05
06
08
10
12
14
2

continued
SALT, SUN & SEAFOOD
Crabby’s Bar & Grille
16
CULINARY RYTHMS ON FLAGLER AVENUE 18
Flagler Tavern
BAREFOOT BITES: WHERE BEACH DAYS
MEET COASTAL CRAVINGS
Chases on the Beach
REFINED DINING BY THE RIVER
The Grille at Riverview
RELAXED VIBES AND RIVERFRONT FEASTS
River Deck Tiki Bar & Restaurant
RESTORING THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
One Oyster Shell at a Time
20
22
24
26
3

EDITOR’S note
THE NEW SMYRNA BEACH AREA
EXPERIENCE GUIDES
Welcome to the very first edition of the New Smyrna
Beach Area Experience Guides. This inaugural issue
shines a spotlight on something that defines who we
are as a coastal community: our food, our shorelines,
and the passionate people who bring them together.
Our annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month celebrates
local chefs and restaurateurs who share a deep respect
for the ocean that sustains us. Across these pages, you
will discover 13 culinary stories filled with creativity,
sustainability, and fresh Florida flavors. These
businesses are choosing responsible sourcing, reducing
waste, and finding new ways to protect the waters we
treasure while serving up exceptional dining
experiences.
We are proud to partner with restaurants that embrace
stewardship as much as hospitality. They remind us
that every delicious bite has a story that begins right
here along our coast. As you explore, dine, and connect
with these local favorites, I hope you feel inspired by
their commitment to making the New Smyrna Beach
Area a better place for residents, visitors, and our
marine environment.
Thank you for supporting our coast, our community,
and the culinary talent that makes the NSB Area
unforgettable.
Debbie Meihls
PRESIDENT & CEO
NSB AREA VISITORS BUREAU
4

MORE ADVENTURES
01
PLACES TO STAY IN
THE NSB AREA
From cozy cottages to oceanfront
condos, your getaway starts here.
02
BEACHES AND
BLUEWAYS
Unwind on soft beaches or paddle
scenic rivers and lagoons
03
MORE LOCAL EATS
AND BARS
Savor fresh seafood, local flavors,
and laid-back coastal vibes
04
TRAVELING WITH
FAMILY
Enjoy surf lessons, parks, and fun
activities for every age.
05
LOCAL OUTFITTERS
& GUIDES
Head out with local guides for
eco-tours, fishing, and more.
06
NATURE AND
WILDLIFE
See dolphins, manatees, and
birds in their natural coastal
homes.
07
SHOPPING &
UNIQUE GIFTS
Browse boutiques, galleries, and
markets for coastal-inspired
treasures.
08
RESPONSIBLE
TOURISM
Support local culture and nature
by choosing community-based
experiences.
09
YEAR-ROUND
EVENTS
Celebrate with art walks, festivals,
and lively seasonal gatherings.
5

DINING IN
THE CANOPY
treehouse views and ocean harvests
Tucked away along 3rd Avenue,
Norwood’s Eatery & Treehouse Bar isn’t
just a restaurant—it’s an experience
suspended in time and nestled in the
trees. As you climb the winding
staircase toward the canopy, the scent
of grilled grouper and citrus wafts
through the branches. Diners sip wine
under twinkling string lights,
surrounded by the rustle of leaves and
the murmur of live acoustic music. It's
equal parts whimsical and refined, a
destination that manages to feel both
adventurous and deeply rooted in New
Smyrna Beach's history.
Norwood’s has been serving the
community since 1946, but it wasn’t
until the addition of the now-iconic
Treehouse Bar that the restaurant
truly embraced its surroundings in a
new way. “We wanted to create a
space that honored Florida’s natural
beauty while giving people a
completely different way to dine,” says
the general manager. The result is a
multi-level haven where locals and
visitors gather for craft cocktails, live
music, and seafood that practically
tells the story of the coast itself.
That seafood is by no accident.
Norwood’s has long prioritized
sustainability, favoring suppliers
that adhere to responsible fishing
practices. Their grouper comes
from Florida’s Gulf waters, their
shrimp from regulated East Coast
fisheries, and their menu changes
seasonally to reflect what’s fresh
and local. “We don’t just want to
feed people,” explains the executive
chef. “We want to connect them to
this place, its waters, its flavors.”
6
Photography by Norwood’s Eatery & Treehouse Bar

serving the area since 1946
Norwood’s proves that fine dining
doesn’t need white tablecloths or
formality. Sometimes, all it takes is a
seat in the trees, a view of the sky,
and a meal made with love—and a
little salt air.
The Tuna Stack is a standout — blackened and served
over a Yukon Gold potato cake with miso–lime glazed
edamame, then topped with yuzu kosho aioli and crisp
fried rice noodles. It’s as vibrant as the setting: fresh,
bright, and full of intention. Pair it with a glass of
Matua Sauvignon Blanc, whose bright citrus notes and
refreshing acidity complement every layer of the dish.
Norwood’s isn't just about what’s on the plate but also
about who’s around the table. Families celebrate
milestones here, friends gather for Sunday brunches,
and couples toast anniversaries under the stars. The
restaurant has become a character in the town’s story,
serving as both a community gathering place and a
culinary escape.
During the annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month,
Norwood’s leans into its roots with a special prix fixe
menu celebrating regional ingredients. It’s a true taste
of the coast, elevated by care and creativity.
7
Photography by Norwood’s Eatery & Treehouse Bar

DOCKSIDE DINING
from marina
TO MENU
Life moves at a different pace on the river. Boats bob
gently in their slips, and the sun casts a golden glow
over the water. At Outriggers Tiki Bar and Grille, that
rhythm is more than scenery—it’s the heartbeat of
the experience.
Resting on the edge of the New Smyrna Marina,
Outriggers is a beacon for anyone who wants to
experience Florida’s coast as it’s meant to be: relaxed,
sun-soaked, and brimming with flavor. From the
moment you arrive—whether by boat, bike, or bare
feet—you’re immersed in a setting that feels more
like a laid-back island retreat than a restaurant.
“WE WANT PEOPLE TO FEEL
LIKE THEY’RE ON VACATION,
EVEN IF IT’S JUST FOR LUNCH,”
Says the restaurant’s chef. And that easygoing energy
is perfectly matched by a menu full of coastal
classics. Think blackened mahi sandwiches, crispy
coconut shrimp, and poke bowls bursting with color.
The ingredients are fresh, often sourced from nearby
fisheries or local markets. The goal is simple: let the
natural flavors of the sea shine.
8

One of the most popular options is the Rigger Bites
— a half-pound of the day’s fresh catch, crispy fried
and served with chipotle-lime and spicy aioli sauces.
It’s the kind of coastal bite that pairs perfectly with a
warm breeze and a frozen drink. At the tiki bar,
drinks are taken seriously. Signature cocktails like
the “Outrigger’s Original Zombie” and the
“Outrigger’s Old Fashioned” are crafted with care—
bold, flavorful, and always served with more than a
dash of fun.
Outriggers is also deeply committed to sustainability, not
just in sourcing but in stewardship. The restaurant
supports local initiatives that protect the Indian River
Lagoon, including the “Shuck and Share” oyster shell
recycling program with the Marine Discovery Center, and
has taken steps to reduce single-use plastics. “We live and
work right on the water,” says the manager. “We have a
responsibility to take care of it.”
SEAFOOD SPECIALS THAT
HIGHLIGHT LOCAL SPECIES
AND SEASONAL HARVESTS
During the annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month,
the team pulls out all the stops with seafood specials
that showcase local species and seasonal harvests.
Each dish tells a story of the surrounding waters and
the community that thrives beside them.
As the sun dips behind the marina and tiki torches
flicker to life, it’s easy to see why Outriggers is a
favorite. It’s more than a restaurant — it’s a
gathering place, a waterfront escape, and a taste of
New Smyrna Beach at its most authentic.
9
Photography by NSBAVB & Outriggers Tiki Bar and Grille

WINE COUNTRY
MEETS THE COAST
from Sonoma to New Smyrna
CALIFORNIA WINE
COUNTRY MEETS FLORIDA’S
ATLANTIC COAST
Photography by SoNapa Grille
SoNapa Grille is what happens when two iconic
regions—California wine country and Florida’s Atlantic
coast—collide in perfect harmony. With roots in
Sonoma and Napa, and a deep appreciation for New
Smyrna’s natural bounty, this upscale eatery offers
something rare: a coastal restaurant with a vineyard’s
soul.
10
From the outside, SoNapa blends seamlessly into the
relaxed elegance of Atlantic Avenue. Inside, it’s all
warm wood, polished glass, and the soft glow of
candlelight. Walls lined with bottles of carefully
curated wine hint at the story behind the name—and
the philosophy behind the food

“SONAPA WAS BORN OUT OF A
LOVE FOR GOOD WINE, GOOD
PEOPLE, AND GOOD FOOD,”
says Adam Barringer, co-owner and wine director. “We
wanted to bring a bit of California’s wine lifestyle to the
Florida coast, and it’s been a beautiful fusion.”
At the heart of the menu is a respect for ingredients,
especially seafood. Guests can enjoy dishes like the
Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops, served with arugula,
verjus-pickled grapes, and a champagne vinaigrette, or
explore the Chef’s Feature “Catch of the Day,” a fresh
seafood selection prepared nightly. The flavors are
layered and luxurious, yet grounded in the sea.
Each dish is designed to pair beautifully with a glass
from SoNapa’s award-winning wine list. Servers are
trained to offer pairing suggestions that elevate every
bite, creating a true wine-dining experience. There’s
nothing stuffy about it—the staff is as welcoming as
they are knowledgeable, and there’s always a story
behind every pour.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of SoNapa’s
identity. The restaurant works with vendors who share
their values, sourcing organic produce and responsibly
caught seafood. “We’re not just feeding guests—we’re
representing the places these ingredients come from,”
says the executive chef.
During the annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month,
SoNapa introduces limited-time creations that
celebrate Florida’s waters—fresh, seasonal, and
thoughtfully paired with the restaurant’s signature wine
selections. Whether enjoyed with a crisp Sonoma
sauvignon blanc or a bold Napa zinfandel, it’s a coastal
indulgence with a conscience.
Photography by SoNapa Grille
As wine glasses clink and the flavors of both coasts
mingle on the plate, guests are reminded that good
food and good wine are universal languages—and
SoNapa Grille speaks them fluently.
11

TROPICAL TIDES
and
TIKI BITES
THE POLYNESIAN PULSE OF FLAGLER AVENUE
Photography by Avanu on Flagler
Step through the doors of Avanu on Flagler
and you might wonder if you’ve been
transported to an island halfway across the
Pacific. The ambiance is lush and playful—
bamboo-lined walls, flickering torches, and
hand-carved tiki sculptures set the tone for
a dining experience that fuses Polynesian
flair with coastal Floridian charm.
Avanu is one of the newest stars on Flagler
Avenue, and yet it feels right at home
among the palm trees and ocean breeze. It
offers something distinctly different from
its neighbors: an immersive journey into
tropical flavors, all rooted in fresh, local
ingredients from the Atlantic coast. "We
wanted to create a space that captures the
joy and color of island life," says the chef.
"But everything still begins with our local
seafood."
Try the Poke Stack, layered with fresh
yellowfin, avocado, and mango. Its
Hawaiian inspiration is clear, but along
Florida’s East Coast it takes on a distinct
freshness of its own. The fusion never feels
forced—it’s balanced, intentional, and
always vibrant. Other standouts include the
Volcano Shrimp, fire-roasted edamame
with sea salt, and the island-inspired Huli
Huli Chicken.
12

The cocktail program is just as essential to the Avanu experience. Guests sip everything from classic mai tais to
bright, fruit-forward creations, often while enjoying live music under the stars. The tiki bar’s colorful menu feels
like a playful extension of Avanu’s ethos—fun, fresh, and rooted in a sense of place. Favorites include the Avanu
Mai Tai, the tropical Bird of Paradise, and the coconut-forward Hula Hula Crush.
BALANCING TOURISM
WITH SUSTAINABILITY
Avanu also brings a thoughtful approach to
sustainability. Fresh ingredients, careful sourcing, and
a commitment to reducing unnecessary waste all play
a role in how the team operates. “Sustainability isn’t a
trend for us. It’s a part of how we honor the ocean
and the natural beauty around us,” notes the bar
manager.
During the annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month,
Avanu presents a seasonal tasting menu featuring
island-inspired dishes. It’s a chance to both educate
and delight diners—an approach that’s quickly
made Avanu a culinary leader in the New Smyrna
Beach Area.
In a town known for its charm and surf culture,
Avanu adds something new to the mix: a taste of
the tropics with a conscience, all served just steps
from the sand.
Photography by Avanu on Flagler
13

IBERIAN HEAT
on FLORIDA SHORES
Photography by Spanish River Grille
14

LOCAL SEAFOOD, BOLD SPICES, AND MINDFUL SOURCING
Spanish River Grill has long been a
pillar of the NSB dining scene—
elegant, unexpected, and bursting
with bold Mediterranean flavor.
Inside its cozy, modern dining room,
guests embark on a journey that
begins in Spain and ends on
Florida’s sun-drenched coast.
Chef-driven and deeply intentional,
the restaurant’s menu pays homage
to Iberian tradition with a New
Smyrna Beach twist. Led by Chef
Henry, a two-time James Beard
semifinalist, the team takes risks
rooted in respect for the ingredients.
“We honor where our food comes
from,” he says.
WE HONOR
WHERE OUR
FOOD COMES
FROM
That philosophy plays out in
dishes like paella loaded with
Gulf shrimp, saffron rice, and
locally sourced clams, or
grilled octopus served atop
garbanzo bean pureé with
smoked paprika oil. Every
plate tells a story of
technique and terroir.
Sustainability is woven into Spanish
River Grill’s daily practices. The
restaurant sources only certified
sustainable seafood, reduces waste
through thoughtful small-batch
cooking, and collaborates closely
with local fishermen to shape its
seasonal menu.
For the annual Coastal Catch
Restaurant Month, the kitchen
presents a seasonal tasting menu
that highlights Spanish-inspired
flavors through a fresh, Florida lens.
It’s a chance for diners to experience
the restaurant’s approach to
regional ingredients, thoughtful
execution, and coastal creativity.
WHETHER GUESTS COME FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER, A WINE-PAIRED TASTING, OR
TO SIMPLY ESCAPE INTO A DIFFERENT RHYTHM, SPANISH RIVER GRILL OFFERS
CULINARY ARTISTRY THAT’S ROOTED IN THE COAST—AND ELEVATED BY THE
CULTURE THAT INSPIRES IT.
Photography by Spanish River Grille
15

SALT, SUN &
SEAFOOD
FRESH, AND
FLAVORFUL DINING IN
NEW SMYRNA BEACH
Photography by Crabby’s Bar & Grille
With its beachfront views, colorful vibes, and laid-back
hospitality, Crabby’s Bar & Grille is a go-to for fun,
fresh, and flavorful dining in the New Smyrna Beach
Area. Equal parts beach bar and family-friendly eatery,
Crabby’s serves comfort food with a coastal twist—
and a side of sunshine.
A PLAYFUL TAKE ON COASTAL
comfort food
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with tiki
lights, ocean breezes, and surfboards on the walls. But
behind the casual setting is a kitchen that knows how
to elevate a menu. Crabby’s is best known for its
seafood baskets and towering sandwiches, but there’s
a thoughtful sourcing strategy behind every fried
grouper and grilled mahi taco.
“We want to make great food approachable,” says the chef. “That means high-quality ingredients, sustainable
practices, and flavors that make people smile.” During the annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month, Crabby’s
brings that philosophy to life with a seasonal offering that highlights fresh Florida seafood and the breezy
charm that defines oceanfront dining in New Smyrna Beach. The team focuses on bright, coastal flavors and
relaxed plates that feel right at home steps from the sand—simple, inviting, and unmistakably local.
16

Photography by Crabby’s Bar & Grille
A COMMUNITY &
SUSTAINABILITY
STAPLE
Crabby’s also incorporates simple, everyday
sustainability practices into its operations, from
reducing single-use plastics where possible to making
mindful choices in sourcing and takeout packaging.
It’s all part of their commitment to caring for the
coast they’re proud to call home.
Behind the scenes, Crabby’s keeps a sharp focus on
freshness. They work closely with Florida fishermen
and suppliers, adjusting weekly specials based on
what’s being caught—from mahi and grouper to
seasonal coastal favorites. That short dock-to-dish
journey is a quiet point of pride for the team.
Up on the rooftop deck, the ocean breeze sets the
tone for the entire experience. Guests sip tropical
cocktails while watching surfers ride the waves and
pelicans glide overhead. It is the kind of laid-back,
salt-air soundtrack that defines New Smyrna Beach...
relaxed, friendly, and always connected to the coast.
Whether you’re sipping a margarita on the deck or
digging into a plate of coconut shrimp, Crabby’s is a
joyful celebration of NSB’s beach culture—and a
reminder that sustainability can be served with a wink
and a wedge of lime.
The view alone feels like a postcard of local life.
Crabby’s is supporting a community of coastal
stewards while delivering the sunny energy that keeps
people coming back for more.
Photography by Crabby’s Bar & Grille
17

CULINARY RYTHMS
ON FLAGLER AVENUE
the soul of the strip
LIVELY ATMOSPHERE IN THE
HEART OF FLAGLER AVENUE
Photography by Flagler Tavern
Flagler Avenue is a blend of surf shops, retail therapy,
and salty air. And at its center stands Flagler Tavern, a
beloved hub that offers more than just a good meal.
It’s a gathering place, a live music venue, a culinary
anchor, and above all, a reflection of the town’s
unique soul.
18

For over 20 years, Flagler Tavern has been the
place locals bring out-of-town guests to show off
their city. Set inside a historic 1928 building, the
two-story space features multiple bars, indoor and
outdoor dining, and one of the liveliest patios in
town. Upstairs, The Bounty Speakeasy offers a
more intimate, vintage-inspired vibe. On weekends,
local bands fill the air as seafood platters and
signature cocktails flow from the kitchen and bar.
DISHES THAT
SATISFY AND
SURPRISE
Yet beyond its lively energy lies a serious culinary
operation. The kitchen works hard to source fresh,
local seafood and create dishes that both satisfy
and surprise. A favorite is the Shrimp & Grits, rich
with blackened shrimp, Andouille sausage, and a
savory sauce over creamy Tavern grits—deeply
Southern and endlessly comforting.
Flagler Tavern’s contribution to local cuisine
includes its signature Tavern Steamer Tower—a
showstopping spread of steamed oysters, peeland-eat
shrimp, snow crab, and a full cold-water
lobster. Served with classic fixings like cocktail
sauce, horseradish, drawn butter, and fresh lemon,
it’s a feast that captures the abundance and
easygoing spirit of New Smyrna Beach.
Their commitment to sustainability is grounded in
everyday actions that support fresh ingredients,
reduce waste, and reflect the care they have for
this coastal community
Flagler Tavern is more than a restaurant. It’s the
rhythm of the avenue, the soundtrack to countless
evenings, and a cornerstone of New Smyrna
Beach’s vibrant food scene.
Photography by Flagler Tavern
19

Photography by Chases on the Beach
BAREFOOT BITES
where beach days meet
COASTAL CRAVINGS
At Chases on the Beach, flip-flops are not just
welcome—they’re part of the dress code. This
oceanfront gem sits directly on the sand, where
guests can enjoy ice-cold cocktails, fresh seafood, and
tropical breezes without ever leaving the shoreline.
The view stretches endlessly across the Atlantic, the
music rolls in like waves, and the kitchen serves up
sunshine on a plate.
From coconut shrimp and jumbo crab cakes to ahi
wontons and fresh-catch bites, the menu is full of
bright, beachy flavors.
Behind the carefree vibe is a team strongly
committed to sustainability—they support and host
beach cleanups, helping protect the shoreline they
call home. “We want to protect the beach we love,”
says the chef. “That means being thoughtful about
how we source, serve, and clean up.”
20

CHASES ON
THE BEACH IS
PURE FLORIDA
One of their most popular dishes is the Beachside
Mahi Mahi, served grilled, blackened, or fried—a
simple, fresh preparation that lets the wild-caught
fish shine.
Guests can dine under umbrellas or lounge on the
open-air patio just steps from the sand. It’s casual,
yes, but it’s also thoughtfully curated. The staff is
knowledgeable about allergens, sustainability, and
flavor profiles. And if you’re lucky, they might even
offer a sunset toast with the whole patio.
Chase’s isn’t just a place to eat. It’s an invitation
to slow down, savor the view, and taste what
makes the New Smyrna Beach Area such a
beloved escape.
Locals will tell you that Chases is where memories
happen. Birthday dinners turn into late-night
swims, lazy lunches stretch into golden-hour
selfies, and families return year after year to claim
the same spot in the sand. The restaurant hosts
live music and seasonal beach events, drawing
both longtime residents and first-time visitors into
the fun. It is this effortless blend of oceanfront
excitement and true community spirit that gives
Chases its staying power.
Whether you arrive with a surfboard or a sunhat,
you leave with the same thought: this is the way
coastal dining was meant to be.
21
Photography by Chases on the Beach

REFINED DINING
BY THE RIVER
elegant taste with scenic views
NESTLED BESIDE THE
HISTORIC RIVERVIEW HOTEL
Photography by Grille at Riverview
The Grille at Riverview brings quiet sophistication to
New Smyrna’s waterside dining. Here, guests enjoy
white linen service and chef-crafted dishes with
panoramic views of the Indian River and the
drawbridge beyond.
22

Photography by Grille at Riverview
“IT’S ABOUT
CREATING AN
EXPERIENCE THAT’S
BOTH RELAXED AND
REFINED”
says the restaurant’s executive chef. And that
philosophy is evident in every detail—from the
carefully curated wine list to the artfully plated seafood
entrees.
During the annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month,
The Grille at Riverview highlights the refined coastal
style that longtime guests love—fresh, seasonal
ingredients, elegant preparations, and a quiet
dedication to quality. The menu feels elevated yet
approachable, offering flavors that pair naturally with
the riverfront setting and the relaxed pace of New
Smyrna Beach.
Behind the plate, the restaurant maintains a
thoughtful approach to sourcing and sustainability,
with a focus on fresh catch, local produce, and
responsible practices. “We believe in hospitality with
responsibility,” the general manager adds.
Guests return time and again for the views, the service,
and the chance to indulge in favorites like the Calamari
—breaded and served with ginger chili soy, sweet Thai
chili, and wasabi cream—or the Escargot, tender snails
baked with button mushrooms in rich Parisian butter.
Together with its riverfront setting and attentive
hospitality, The Grille at Riverview delivers a dining
experience that feels both timeless and unmistakably
coastal.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or
simply enjoying a quiet evening by the river, The Grille
at Riverview offers a timeless taste of New Smyrna
Beach elegance.
23

RELAXED VIBES
& RIVERFRONT FEASTS
inspired byCaribbean flavors
At the edge of the Indian River, where boats glide past and
dolphins occasionally greet diners from the water, River Deck
Tiki Bar & Restaurant offers a laid-back, flavor-packed
experience that’s distinctly New Smyrna Beach. From its
sprawling deck to the thatched tiki bar and breezy views, it
captures the town’s spirit with every detail.
24

COME FOR THE
VIEW, STAY FOR
THE FOOD
The restaurant is a magnet for locals and travelers alike,
drawn by the promise of fresh seafood, vibrant cocktails,
and an unbeatable riverfront setting. “We always say:
come for the view, stay for the food,” says the general
manager. That food is no afterthought—River Deck’s
kitchen is known for coastal dishes that reflect both the
bounty of the sea and the laid-back energy of the tropics.
Signature offerings like the Peel and Eat Shrimp—a halfpound
of Gulf shrimp steamed in the shell with Old Bay—
showcase the balance between bold flavor and coastal
simplicity. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like a Florida
postcard.
During the annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month, River
Deck celebrates the season with fresh, Florida-forward
specials that highlight responsibly sourced seafood and
local ingredients, offering guests a chance to savor the
best of the coast at its peak.
Beyond the menu, River Deck is known for its atmosphere.
The tiki bar hums with energy, pouring tropical cocktails
made with fruit purees and house-made mixes—perfect at
golden hour. Live music sets the tone most nights, and
weekly events like trivia and bingo bring the community
together. More than a place to eat, River Deck invites
guests to linger, unwind, and enjoy a slice of NSB’s natural
beauty, one bite or sip at a time.
25
Photography by River Deck Tiki Bar & Restaurant

RESTORING THE INDIAN
RIVER LAGOON
one shell at a time
Oyster lovers in Southeast Volusia are helping
rebuild one of the most important estuaries in
North America. Oysters have long been a favorite
on coastal menus, but in the New Smyrna Beach
Area, they also serve a bigger purpose. Through
Shuck & Share, a program led by the Marine
Discovery Center, discarded oyster shells from
local restaurants are being transformed into reefbuilding
tools to help restore the Indian River
Lagoon, which is recognized as one of the most
biologically diverse estuaries in North America.
Stretching along Florida’s East Coast, the Indian
River Lagoon supports more than 4,300 species,
including manatees, dolphins, redfish, and countless
marine invertebrates. Oysters play a key role in
maintaining this ecosystem's health. They filter
water, protect shorelines, and create habitat for
marine life. Due to pollution and habitat loss, natural
oyster reefs have been in steady decline, both locally
and globally.
26

Shuck & Share was created in 2014 to change
that trajectory. The program collects used shells
from participating restaurants, cures them, and
reintroduces them into the lagoon as new reef
foundations. Over one million pounds of shell
have now been recycled, giving young oysters—or
spat—a place to settle and grow. These living
reefs help stabilize the coast while supporting
marine biodiversity.
CONSERVATION
ISN’T JUST A
CAUSE;
IT’S ACTION.
Several local restaurants are helping drive this
effort. The Baker’s Table, City Market Bistro,
Goodrich Seafood, McKenna’s Place NSB,
McKenna’s Place Port Orange, Off the Hook Raw
Bar & Grill, Outriggers Tiki Bar & Grille, and Rogue
Wave Wine Bar all actively participate in Shuck &
Share, proving that everyday dining choices can
contribute to long-term environmental impact.
Their kitchens now serve not only fresh local
seafood, but also sustainability in action.
For diners and travelers alike, supporting the
lagoon is as simple as ordering oysters at one of
these establishments. But for those who want to
take it further, the Marine Discovery Center offers
hands-on volunteer opportunities year-round. In
the NSB Area, conservation isn’t just a cause; it’s
a community effort, built one oyster shell at a
time.
Photography by NSBAVB & Marine Discovery Center
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Bureau in partnership with Coastal Catch Restaurant Month
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