Chef Jim Shirley

Thank you, Chicago Gourmet! I was thrilled to be part of this year’s events again alongside my team Chef Josh Higgins, Chef Ben Steeno, and Chef Michael Mix, and the amazing crew from Visit South Walton! We had such a great time meeting everyone who stopped by our booths at Tacos & Tequila and the Hamburger Hop events at Millennium Park, talking with talented chefs and friends from around the world, and sharing what makes our area so special. Hope to see you again!

Walton County Tourism is celebrating six local hospitality professionals honored for outstanding service at the recent Recognition of Service Excellence Awards, and we're thrilled that two of them are part of the Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises team! Congrats, Casey and Jay, and thanks for all you do!

Hosted by the Northwest Florida Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association at Henderson Beach Resort, the annual ROSE Awards recognize hospitality professionals who help create exceptional experiences for visitors throughout the region.

This year’s event featured more than 70 nominees across 13 categories. Walton County Tourism congratulates the following local award recipients:

Culinary Service, Chef/Cook – Restaurant: Christian Griffith, The Surf Hut
Event Service – Banquets/Events: Jon Lovett, Hilton Sandestin Golf Beach Resort & Spa
Front of the House – Restaurant: Jay Jsames, The Bay
Golden Pineapple Award – Frank Flautt and Fred Alias, Sandcastle Resorts
Sales/Marketing – Hotel/Resort: Maggie Weaver, Hilton Sandestin Golf Beach Resort & Spa
Veteran Excellence in Hospitality Award: Casey Moser, Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises
These honorees represent the hospitality professionals who play an important role in creating the welcoming, memorable experiences visitors associate with Walton County.

“Our region is known for its beautiful beaches and unforgettable experiences, but it is the people working behind the scenes and welcoming guests every day who truly bring the Emerald Coast to life,” said Marissa Bonham, FRLA Northwest Florida regional director. “We are proud to recognize this year’s nominees and winners and celebrate the dedication they bring to work.”

FRLA is Florida’s premier nonprofit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. Its more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, nationally recognized franchises, theme parks and industry suppliers.

Excited to be back at @chicago_gourmet throughout the weekend with @southwalton! If you’re around at the event, come see us! 🍷 Thank you Walton County Tourism for having me! 📸: @chicago_gourmet

We're excited to share that the Chef Jim Shirley Enterprises and North Beach Social culinary team will be part of the Destin Seafood Festival's VIP events for 2026!

Saturday September 26 | 10am-10pm
Sunday September 27 | 10am-6pm

One of Destin’s most celebrated traditions, the Destin Seafood Festival kicks off the Destin Fishing Rodeo that extends the entire month of October. The event was started in 1978 by the Destin Charter Boat Association Women’s Auxiliary. While the festival has grown into its new home on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, the Destin Seafood Festival remains the primary fundraiser for the Destin Charter Boat Association.

Formed in 1954, the Destin Charter Boat Association is a Non Profit Organization that provides many valuable contributions to our beloved city: their primary function is advocacy for Fisheries Management. They also contribute to various community development projects, and award a scholarship to the winner of the Miss Destin Pageant.

The festival is always FREE TO ATTEND. Walk over 75 vendors to shop, explore, listen to music and eat delicious seafood all weekend long.

VIP Tickets are available at www.destinseafoodfest.com!

Congrats to the North Beach Social team taking People’s Choice 2nd Place and Most Creative at Burgers, Bourbon & B**r for Boys & Girls Club Emerald Coast! 🍔