The Citizen - Alys Beach
The Citizen at Alys Beach opened early this year. I must say, it is a magnificent addition to Florida’s Scenic 30A area. I could only visit for a quick drink, but I am already planning my next excursion to The Citizen when I return to 30A. Their website describes the venue as “a coastal tavern serving creative local fare on Florida’s scenic east highway 30A.” The term tavern does not do it justice, The Citizen is sophisticated and cultured.
The restaurant and craft cocktail bar contain an old-school traditional charm with a beautiful, modern design. The Citizen sports an upscale blue and white décor including clean lines and modern bronze touches. It oozes a coastal grandeur. Guests soak up a refined elegance while feeling a buzz from other patrons enjoying high-end dishes and beverages.
The service was impeccable. We sat at the gorgeous bar and ordered a drink and a cheese plate. Their bar menu is full of creative and traditional cocktails, beer, and a thoughtful wine list. An extra high-five for the long and impressive “Uplifting and Fizzy” section of the wine list – the champagne and sparkling wines!
The bar menu has many food options as well as options from the Raw Bar. My drink was called The Zest is History, containing Cimarron Reposado Tequila, Cappelletti, Bee Pollen Honey, Citrus Zest, and Grapefruit Soda. This pretty pink concoction was not sweet but very refreshing. Not too much alcohol and a whole lot of delicious.
My husband ordered the Boardwalk Bound, which includes Empress Gin, Passionfruit, Velvet Falernum, Lemon, and Orgeat. By far the most beautiful drink on the menu, it was a fun new cocktail for him to try. It was refreshing, dry, and crisp.
Let me ensure I give proper praise to the Artisan Cheese Plate, which included local honeycomb, preserved fruit, and grilled bread. This board was indeed one of the best cheese boards I have consumed. The flavors and textures were unique to a cheese plate and work so, so well. The Pickled grated carrots and onions were fabulous. The Rosemary Marcona Almonds were top-notch. The way the pickled veggies and preserves paired with the cheese and grilled bread was outstanding. And that bread! Crunchy and soft, it was phenomenal.
Our quick visit gave a taste that left us craving more. I am super excited about sitting down for a complete meal. Everything was excellent - the ambiance, service, beverage service, menu choices, and what we tasted. See you again soon, The Citizen!
The Citizen 20 Mark Twain Lane #101 Alys Beach, Florida 32461 850-909-0702 https://citizenalys.com/