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Hello from the Stewart Family

Produce just as fresh as produce gets.

In recent years, The Wharf in Orange even locally made cheese. Keeping
Beach has grown into a full-fledged it local is not a new concept for
destination in its own right. Beautiful Rick, but neither is broadening life’s
views, world-class dining, family- horizons.
themed entertainment and retail
shopping options are plentiful. “I grew up here. My Dad built a
small cabin in East Orange Beach on
In addition to spending an afternoon Washington Blvd. in 1970. One of the
watching the boats in the marina things I enjoy most is all the people
and indulging in “retail therapy” to I meet from all over the country and
their heart’s content, now visitors to world.”
The Wharf have another shopping
choice – choosing from some of the The Stewarts point to the constantly
best fruit, vegetable and produce changing product availabilities,
selections in the entire county! people, and the opportunity to provide
fresh quality, healthy meals as their
Rick and Jeanine Stewart, owners most enjoyable facets of their family
of Burris Farm Market in Loxley, business, which includes sons Tanner
have operated one of the most Tolbert and Ethan Tolbert.
highly-respected open-air markets
in Baldwin County for 13 years. Just Taking a look back in time from their
recently, the pair opened a second current successful status, it isn’t hard
location at The Wharf in Orange for Rick to see how far they have
Beach. come.

Although entering into the “Market” “In 1986, my dad and I were riding
industry wasn’t necessarily a planned down Canal Road on a Sunday
idea, it has worked out exceptionally afternoon when he pointed out a
well. place next to the cement plant and
said ‘Rickey, you should open a
“I was down for my uncle’s funeral, business here one day’. Now, 31years
who passed away during Hurricane later, here we grow.”
Ivan,” said Rick. “I stopped in Burris
Farm Market to buy some new
potatoes to take home to my Mom. I
met the owner, and one year later the
market was mine.”

In addition to a large selection of
produce, Burris Farm Market also
has homemade jams and preserves,
pickles, sorghum, molasses, and



OB’s Newest Big Splash

A passion for food.

Although the choices for quality “Everybody eats every day, so every day
restaurants are plentiful in the Gulf we have the opportunity to feed - and
Shores and Orange Beach area, Jason make happy - hundreds, sometimes
Barje and Jeffery Grossman along with thousands of people with food and
their partners at Big Wave Dave’s are service we have a great passion for.”
ready to make a big splash of their own
in the local food service market, both Barje began working at his own family’s
literally and figuratively. restaurant as a child after school, and
soon found a passion for the industry
Big Wave Dave’s Kitchen & Beach himself. Opening an establishment on
Bar has recently opened in Orange Pleasure Island seemed like a natural
Beach, aptly named - and located - for selection, he said.
the region, sitting beside Ron Jon Surf
Shop. BWD partners with over 80 years “The incredibly friendly and welcoming
of combined total experience in the people and, of course, the beautiful
restaurant industry and seasoned local beaches, brought us to the Gulf Coast,”
team in Roy Pippin, Barklie Hebert, Ryan said Barje. “We plan to take root in
Hinton and Matt Waterman by their side, the community and to meet everyone
the future is bright. who makes this great beach town what
it is today, as well as what it will be
“In this industry we have the great tomorrow.”
pleasure of meeting so many different
people from all walks of life, said Barje.
“Every day is different, every day is a new
adventure and we get to be part of it.”

Featuring a menu that boasts a variety
of dishes, from southern-influenced
seafood to lobster rolls to Mexican street
food, Big Wave Dave’s also features a
full craft bar.

Welcome to the Beautiful
Alabama Gulf Coast
White Sand, Emerald Green Water
and the Friendliest People in the World.

Welcome to the Alabama Gulf Coast! Visitors are often surprised at the
Sometimes affectionately referred friendly reception offered by the local
to as the “Redneck Riviera”, the 32 residents, making the area a haven for
miles of sugar-white soft sand and travelers looking to “get away from it
clear water is more often called all” to the beach for family vacations
“Pleasure Island”, or even “Paradise”! and weekend getaways.
Locals simply refer to the entire area
stretching from Gulf Shores to Orange Located in Baldwin County – one of
Beach as “The Gulf”. the fastest-growing counties in the
state - Gulf Shores alone saw it’s full-
No matter what term is used to time population nearly double to 9,741
describe the area, the appeal is the residents (2010 census), up from 5,044
same – beautiful, pristine beaches, at the 2000 census. During the peak
championship golf and water sports, Summer months, the population swells
world-class fishing and an abundance to more than twice that size.
of top-notch seafood restaurants. Zip
lines, mini golf courses, water parks Whether you are in town for a quick
and more are within easy reach for break from “the grind” or spending
family-oriented fun. several days – or even weeks – along
the Gulf Coast, welcome to Paradise!

A Note from the Publisher

Thanks for visiting the beautiful Take a minute & flip through the
Alabama Gulf Coast! The Things book to get a feel for the variety
To Do on the Gulf Coast of possibilities out there and start
Vacation Guide is the newest enjoying your vacation today!
publication in the area to help you
enjoy this getaway more than any Don’t forget to take a look at the
vacation you’ve ever had anywhere FREE TOURIST BOOK. You can
in the world! save a ton of money and make your
visit with us just that much happier.
We’ve featured the best restaurants,
adventures, fun stuff, fishing, golf
courses, shopping and nightlife.

We’re Glad You’re Here!

Gail McDorman
PUBLISHER

Local Service Numbers

AIRPORTS 251-967-3968 jka.us.com
Jack Edwards Airport (Gulf Shores) 251-633-4510 mobairport.com
Mobile Regional Airport 850-436-5000 flypensacola.com
Pensacola International Airport

EMERGENCY SERVICES | POLICE

Gulf Shores 251-968-2431 or 911
Orange Beach 251-981-9777 or 911

VISITOR INFORMATION 251-974-1510 GulfShores.com or OrangeBeach.com
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism 251-968-6904 MyGulfCoastChamber.com
Coastal Alabama Business Chamber

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Gulf Shores-Orange Beach 251-968-6904 mygulfcoastchamber.com

AL Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce mygulfcoastchamber.com

Perdido Key 850-492-4660 visitperdido.com

Foley 251-943-3291 southbaldwinchamber.com

PUBLIC TRANSIT
BRATS 251-972-6817 baldwincountyal.gov/departments/BRATS

EMERGENCY MEDICAL 251-968-2272 1140 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores
Infirmary Urgent Care 251-962-1250 101 E. 15th Avenue, Gulf Shores
South Baldwin Medical Center 251-964-7425 Orange Beach, Winn Dixie Center
Emergency Medical Walk In 251-974-3004 Orange Beach, PUBLIX Shopping Center
AFC Urgent Family Care Center

POST OFFICE AND PACKAGE SHIPPING 800-275-8777 2149 West 1st St.
Gulf Shores 251-981-5510 25778 John M Snook Dr, Behind City Hall
Orange Beach 251-981-7225 Offered by Pack and Mail, Winn Dixie Center
Fedex and UPS









Lane & Ginny Gilbert
Meet the owners of Villaggio Grill, Ginny Lane & Gilbey’s

Lane and Ginny have used their to it. There is an amazing energy in
combined 26 years of experience in the restaurant business that revolves
the hospitality industry to develop around people. The people we work
three of the finest restaurants in with and the people that eat with
Orange Beach, let alone the entire us make coming to work every day
Alabama Gulf Coast. worthwhile. It is a great community.”

They celebrate the succcess of their
remarkable “dream come true” along
with their two kids, Elia and Eli, 8 & 6
years old. Both Lane and Ginny know
exactly what keeps them excited
about their lives here.

“To raise our children in this beach
community, enjoy it, and contribute



Brian & Jodi Harsany

Cosmo’s, Cobalt, Luna’s, Buzzcatz and GT’s.

The names Brian & Jodi Harsany drum Then, he moved to server, and finally
up images of dishes of perfection. When assistant manager after he graduated
you think of their renown establishments Florida State University with a Hospitality
in the area like Cobalt and Cosmo’s Administration degree.
Restaurant and Bar, you cannot help but
experience the visual images of fish filets Working in restaurants has and given
coming out of the kitchen. The aroma him the joy to meet new people daily. He
of the Gulf Coast’s finest creations will appreciates the fact that no two days in
seep into your memories. the restaurant world are ever alike, and
every new day brings new challenges
Cobalt is locally famous for the fantastic and opportunities.
views the outdoor seating offers, as well
as the three distinct kitchens preparing Naturally, Brian has an amazing wife,
amazingly memorable meals. Cosmo’s Jodi, whose patience and support have
has, hands down, the best redfish made all of the dreams and expansions
meal on our island (pecan-encrusted possible. Brian credits her with the
goodness) and are in the middle of creativity behind the eateries, as she
their 10-year anniversary of creating chooses the colors, designs, lighting and
memories for locals and visitors alike. artwork, and she is the one who gives
each place a different and welcoming,
One of the best parts is that Cosmo’s memorable vibe.
provides outdoor patio dining where they
welcome your happy, friendly dogs. When Brian and Jodi take the day off,
you can find them working out, paddle
Brian has worked hard to produce boarding, and gardening together.
quality, and that quality is now being
expanded via Buzzcatz Coffee and Brian and Jodi follow the advice from
Sweets, where you can stop in for a Danny Meyer, who is an acclaimed
homemade pastry, locally made coffee, restauranteur.
ice cream or a sugary treat. Right next to
Buzzcatz is the event center which can “Take a guest’s experience and do a
be utilized to host receptions and parties little extra.”
as well as formal dinners. Here you can
dine and unwind while enjoying the best Brian & Jodi ensure that every eatery
that Brian has to offer. that is visited by their guests produce a
positive, memorable experience every.
Lastly, you can experience a unique time they visit.
twist of traditional dishes at Luna’s Eat
and Drink, which offers more a la carte
meals and over 30 different craft beers
to choose from while enjoying your meal.

Brian has been in the business of
creating memories from meals for over
three decades, and began his love affair
with restaurants from the bottom-up.
He was washing dishes and bussing
tables when he was 16 in Tallahassee.

Photo courtesy of Captain Troy Frady • Distraction Charters





Meet Bubba!

When Bubba sez “Eat Here” He means “EAT HERE!”

Bubba was born on his daddy’s boat, and tell tales...like about the ‘big
right out there in the Gulf one hot ole hurricane’ that almost sunk the
summer day. That’s right...that’s the whole island!
boat right above our drink’n spot
Or if you’re really lucky, he’ll tell you
Bubba’s momma, “Momma Queenie” about the record grouper he caught
was always cook’n a few years ago.

Her seafood and fri’d pickles are It fed 25 folks once he got it fri’d up!
the stuff of legends. Bubba learned
it all – how to catch the biggest and Are you looking for a unique idea for
best seafood and how to cook it to a party or special function? Just call
perfection. Bubba’s! We also cater and offer fast
take-out service.
One day he found this here run down
shack. He got to think’n and decided We really hope you enjoy your meal
to open his own restaurant so you and come see us again really soon!
good folks can enjoy the bounty.
Enjoy!
Bubba spends most of his time on Jay & Valerie
the Gulf fishing, but he has been
known to drop in, pull up a stool







We’re not in Kansas any more

Dorothy’s Favorite Pancakes on the Gulf Coast

Most people would agree that no of helping to revitalize the area,
matter how far and wide you travel, Jennifer and Erich sought the perfect
there is truly no place like home. name for their project.
For Jennifer and Erich Weishaupt,
owners of the aptly-named Ruby “It goes back to why we decided
Slipper Café in Orange Beach, to open the very first one, to bring
these words have never rung truer. people some sense of homecoming
after Hurricane Katrina. Based off our
What started out in New Orleans in name, we agree with Dorothy Gale
the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina that there is no place like home!”
as an amenity for the storm-ravaged
neighborhood to attract residents to Now, along with their three children,
re-occupy homes in the area, has the couple are offering up their
now blossomed into a successful version of “home” right here in
location right here on the Alabama Orange Beach. In addition to
Gulf Coast. running and parenting, the couple
enjoy being actively involved in the
“We knew our tagline “No Place communities they serve.
Like Home” resonated with the New
Orleans market, but we wanted “Sharing the city we love (New
to test the brand and restaurant Orleans) through great food and a
outside of the Big Easy,” said friendly experience if why we love
Jennifer. “The Gulf Coast was this journey.”
perfect to test the concept with the
seasonal traffic.”

The first “Ruby Slipper” was
constructed merely blocks away
from their own Mid-City New
Orleans home and neighborhood,
which had been deluged with
over five feet of water. With a goal



Meet Leck & Jana
Owners of Big Fish Restaurant

Leck Lilayuva, is a native of Orange Being the beef lover that Leck is, he
Beach of 40 years. Jana Lilayuva also wanted to have the best steaks
is from the Czech Republic but has around. He only uses prime quality
lived in Orange Beach for over 20 filets and ribeyes and hand cuts them
years herself. Combined, they have all personally. Big Fish also has an
nearly 40 years of experience in the extensive sushi bar with the highest-
restaurant business. grade product available.

Leck’s father owned Niki’s Seafood When you visit, you’ll feel like you’re
Restaurant on canal road in Orange in New York or downtown L.A. The
Beach from 1979-2003. Leck literally décor and ambiance is very chic
grew up in that restaurant. Jana and elegant. It has an upscale feel
worked in restaurants ever since she without being too stuffy.
arrived from the Czech Republic.
The service is second to none! The
They met working together in a whole staff is always friendly, smiling
restaurant in 2006 and married in and very well-versed on the menu.
2007. Late in 2009 they decided to Even the kitchen staff will greet you
venture out on their own – Big Fish when you walk by since the kitchen
was born Jan. 5, 2010! is wide-open near the bar. And on
one of those pleasant Gulf evenings
Big Fish has it’s own unique flair you can dine out in the beautiful
unlike any restaurant on the Gulf courtyard.
Coast. Chef Leck’s father is from
Bangkok, Thailand. Leck wanted to Big Fish is definitely a change of
bring his heritage to the menu and pace from all the other restaurants in
incorporated an Asian flair to some the area. Don’t expect a waterfront
of his dishes. It’s very subtle, not view but you’ll enjoy a great
overpowering. He has introduced experience in a beautiful restaurant
different herbs and spices to the area with outstanding food, wonderful
without being considered an Asian ambiance and smiling faces.
restaurant.
This is the type of place you want
Big Fish specializes in freshness. All to dress to impress! So leave the
the fresh catch is hand-cut by Leck swimsuit and flops at home and hit
himself. They have anywhere from the town in style!
8-14 types of fish on the menu each
night as well as large diver scallops,
fresh lobster, mussels, snow crabs,
colossal-lump crabcakes and a lot of
other fresh seafood.



Johnny Fisher

Fine or Casual Waterfront Dining at Orange Beach Marina

It may sound like a fairy tale to some “I love the people I get to work with,”
– local boy starts from the bottom said Fisher. “The service industry
and works his way to the top. For attracts a special kind of person and I
Johnny Fisher, though, the fairy tale love having the opportunity to make a
has turned into more of a dream come positive influence on their lives.”
true…times two!
Fisher credits his wife Beth as the
Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina vision behind the successful Fisher’s
is comprised of two of the most retail store, “The Shop.” She buys all
beautiful restaurants in the South. of the unique and great products and
Located in the heart of Orange creates the most beautiful displays.
Beach Marina, Fisher’s Dockside Their two daughters, Julia (11) and
offers casual, open-air dining while Sophie (16), provide lots of tips and
Fisher’s Upstairs is sophisticated and inspiration.
gorgeous while still being comfortable
and relaxing. Fisher’s opened in May What may sound like a simple
of 2013 and has quickly become a philosophy has served Fisher well and
popular destination, recently named acts as the foundation for his thriving
one of Southern Living’s 100 Best business.
Restaurants in the South.
“Put your employees first and
After growing up in Mobile - fishing your guests will follow. Create an
in local waters and eating from his environment where your employees
parents’ garden - Fisher started his are smiling because they’re happy, not
journey as a restaurateur on the because you told them to. Make every
bottom rung of the ladder. During his guest feel special and always show
college years at The University of gratitude.”
South Alabama, he was a dishwasher/
busser at the legendary Korbets in Johnny has served on the Board of
Mobile. After graduating, Fisher moved Directors for Gulf Shores Orange
to New Orleans and helped open the Beach Tourism and the Coastal
House of Blues. Alabama Business Chamber.

Over the next decade, Fisher
continued to hone his skills in Orlando,
FL, where he helped open House
of Blues Orlando, and Miami, FL,
where he worked for The Cheesecake
Factory. In 2005 he returned “home”
to Alabama to become the general
manager of Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s in
Gulf Shores. In 2012, he was part of
the team that helped develop The Gulf
in Orange Beach.



Chef Chris Sherrill

Amazing Cuisine at the World-Famous Flora-Bama.

Chris Sherrill knows from personal “The restaurant business is one of the
experience that “Life can change in 30 most fast paced and chaotic industries.
seconds”. One of his favorite quotes There are many crazy days and many
to this day, these words accurately hectic moments. At the end of the day it’s
describe his own entry into the culinary all about the customer.”
field over 25 years ago.
The Sherrill family consists of his wife
“I grew up in the Boy Scouts where I Jenny, son Alex and three daughters -
loved to cook. I wanted to play college Taylor, Hannah and Sadie. Chris lists
football, but had an injury my senior year Coin Collecting, Metal Detecting, Fishing
of high school,” said Sherrill. “Someone and Hunting as hobbies, but also has
suggested that I become a chef. I one interest that jumps out from the rest
entered a high school recipe contest and of the list - making underutilized fish,
won a scholarship to Johnson & Wales flora, and fauna become sought-after
University. I graduated in 1997 and food items.
began my career.”
Not content to be satisfied with his
Now the Executive Chef overseeing current success, Sherrill has additional,
operations at Flora-Bama Yacht Club, lofty goals.
Flora-Bama Lounge & Package, Flora-
Bama Ole River Grill, Sherrill also lives “I hope to cultivate a true “Alabama”
by another one of his favorite quotes: “If Cuisine. I want to start my own video
you can kill it, I can grill it!” production company and film my own
food concept shows. I want to see World
A Mardi Gras catering event brought Food Championship grow to the most
Sherrill down from Birmingham over a amazing food competition event in the
decade ago, where a chance encounter entire UNIVERSE.”
with another culinary visionary also
helped to shape his future.

“I met an amazing individual named
John Brunick. John had a vision for a
fantastic new restaurant concept. John
moved us down here in 2006 and we
opened a very successful catering
business and restaurant.”

Sherrill points to the “instant
gratification” of making food memories
and “using my skill to help others
achieve their goals” as some of his
favorite aspects of his career in the food
industry, which has its own challenges.



Chef Billy Highland

Amazing Cuisine at the World-Famous Flora-Bama.

With over 32 years of experience in Highland also points to the diverse
the culinary field, Chef Billy Highland group of people he has met and
will be the first to admit that the prepared food for over the span of the
industry is “in his blood.” last three decades as a unique benefit
of his career choice. Among others,
With over 3 seasons at the Flora- he has met and prepared new dishes
Bama Ole River Grill under his belt, for the likes of Chris “Moondawg”
working directly under Executive Chef Hall, Dallas Moore, Ted Nugent,
Chris Sherrill, Highland is certainly no David Allen Coe, Billy Dean, Michael
stranger to a kitchen. Raye and the Robertson family.

“My grandparents had a place called During his spare time, Highland
Tuffy’s Tavern and Lucille’s Kitchen enjoys Fishing, Hunting and Music,
in Smithfield, Nebraska. At the age and is a self-proclaimed Beach Lover.
of 14, I would go to Nebraska for His family consists of his “better half
the summer and I would help my Paige Eddy, Ellie Guthrie (Mom), Mike
grandmother in the kitchen.” Highland (Brother), Chase Highland
(Son) Kizer Highland (Grandson).
Highland’s mom, Ellie Guthrie, also
had 3 restaurants in central Florida, Over the next several years, Highland
where he helped until the age of 18 looks forward to growing his career
before eventually venturing out on with the Flora-Bama organization that
his own. has taken him in.

So what could possibly keep a career “They treat you like a family member,
“fresh” after so many years? Working not just another number.”
with fresh ingredients and menu
items is one of the keys for Highland.

“I love getting into my creative side
where I get to create and prepare
exciting new specials. We will be
offering a fresh sheet on a regular
basis with our new and exciting new
menu!”



Island Atmosphere

Bushwackers at Sunset – Nothing Better!

In the restaurant industry (or most The variety of menu options at
other business, as well), if the term Tacky Jacks is almost as impressive
“tacky” is used at all, it generally as the view - offering breakfast,
does not constitute a compliment. lunch, and dinner options that
But the nearly-legendary status of combine delightful takes on local
the local Tacky Jacks restaurant seafood favorites with a range of
chain proves that there is always an traditional casual restaurant fare. An
exception to the rule. ample kid’s menu is also available
as well as a plentiful selection of
Originally established in 1980, adult beverages – headlined by the
Tacky Jacks is actually one of the “Bushwacker” – a spin on a frozen
area’s oldest restaurants. What milkshake tailored just for adults
started out as a single location has only.
now blossomed into three – one
each in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach “Overall, we want every customer,
and Fort Morgan. Each location every family, and every group to
offers a great dining experience feel like guests in our home,” said
with its own spectacular view amidst Skipper.
a casual, fun and mildly “tacky”
ambience. Each individual, centralized
location of Tacky Jacks makes it
“At Tacky Jacks we take pride in conveniently accessible by both
being a little different and a little land and sea, as well as providing
better than most restaurants,” the perfect spot for people watching
explains Owner Buddy Skipper. or enjoying the ever-changing
“Sure we always serve great boats and dolphins swimming-by. If
tasting food and drinks, accurately you’re in search of fun and inviting
and quickly in a clean but eclectic restaurants to eat in the local area,
environment. But at Tacky Jacks, look no further than the great food
our difference is our smile and and casual dining of Tacky Jacks.
genuine sense of hospitality!”

Having been voted “Best Happy
Hour”, “Best Overall Bar”, “Best
Local Hangout”, “Best View of the
Island”, “Best Island Atmosphere”
and “Friendliest Staff” by the local
People’s Choice Awards, Tacky
Jacks has genuinely solidified its
status as a “must visit” eatery for
locals and visitor alike.



Meet Rick Volland

Elevated Southern Cuisine

Rick Volland is a veteran restaurateur entertainment and event district.
with a career that spans more
than 30 years in the service and Baye’s combines the best of Capital
hospitality industry. City Grill’s upscale casual dining with
Stroubes most popular signature
From busboy during his college years dishes. A strong wine program and
at LSU in Baton Rouge to managing curated selection of craft beers
several Houlihan’s locations to a rounds out the offerings. The
5-year stint as general manager and location’s picturesque marina setting
kitchen manger for multiple locations and ample outdoor seating serves as
of J. Alexander’s, Volland has in- a focal point and inspiration for the
depth, top-to-bottom experience restaurant.
running successful restaurants.
Rick, his wife Sharon and their two
In 2001, Volland opened Capital City kids Ricky & Ryleigh live in the
Grill in Baton Rouge. Following the Baton Rouge area and have always
time-tested success of Capital City enjoyed the people and lifestyle of
Grill, Volland opened Stroubes in this area. Someday, they hope to
2009 and Jolie Pearl Oyster Bar in retire in Baldwin County.
2014.
Rick draws inspiration from Walt
As CEO and owner, Volland Disney’s famous quote:
oversees all food operations, hiring,
training, and management of kitchen “The difference between winning and
and front-of-house staff in the losing is most often not quitting.”
restaurant group – known for always
exceeding guest expectations.

The ongoing redevelopment of The
Wharf and addition of SpringHill
Suites by Marriott offers an exciting
opportunity to bring years of
experience and proven success
in the service and hospitality
industry to the transformation of this

Photo courtesy of Captain Troy Frady • Distraction Charters

Meet Jeff & Ashley

Owners of Gulf Shores Steamer

The Gulf Shores Steamer has been
featured in such magazines and daily
newspapers as Southern Living,
Coastal Living, New Orleans Times
Picayune, and many other noted
periodicals. The Steamer continues to
thrive with the leadership of Scott Coe,
Ashley Ouellette and her husband
Jeff Price. The Steamer specializes
in steamed and grilled seafood. The
motto at the Steamer has always been
“NEVER FRIED”.



Michael, Bobby & Brenda
Mexican Food with a Twist

Cousins Michael Lane and Bobby It was a desire to step away from
Wade have been working together the fast-paced “city life” of Atlanta
successfully since they were in that pushed the cousins towards
their teens. But as 16 year olds the beach. They also had a plan to
partnering in a lawn care business, gear their restaurant menus toward
the pair could not have foreseen “Mexican food with a twist.” Fresh
their eventual success in the ingredients, traditional Mexican fare
restaurant industry. with some American influences,
Vegetarian offerings and plenty
Now the owner-operators of Cactus of Tequila and other libations are
Cantina Mexican Grill, the duo – abundant on the menu.
along with Bobby’s mom/Michael’s
aunt Brenda - boast four locations, “The fishing, boating and a slower
three of which are located in the pace from city life is what brought
Gulf Coast area. us here originally,” said Bobby. “We
absolutely love meeting new people
After discovering their knack for from all over in a tourist town, as
developing a successful business well as putting smiles on people’s
partnership as teens, the cousins faces with great food and a fun
jumped into the insurance business atmosphere.”
together. More than a decade later,
they decided it was time for another
career change.

“After 12 years in the insurance
industry, we wanted to diversify into
another field working with people,”
said Michael. “We like making
people happy.”

In April of 2011, they opened
their first Mexican restaurant
in McDonough, Georgia. The
restaurant was a smashing
success so they decided to open
a second location on the Gulf
Coast in Gulf Shores, Alabama in
March of 2013. They then opened
their third location in Pensacola,
Florida in September of 2014.
The most recent addition to the
Cactus Cantina “family” is located in
Orange Beach.

“We love the business and are
in growth mode right now. We
want to open 4-5 stores and start
franchising.”











Philip & Jill Harris
Owners of Nolan’s Steaks, Seafood & Music

As you step foot into the Gulf Shores of their children are participating in
staple known as Nolan’s, you are the business, and if you are fortunate
taken aback by the atmosphere of enough to show up on a night when
sophistication as the waitstaff walks one of their granddaughters is
by in their proper uniform complete performing, you can catch the forth
with bow-ties. Then, the aroma of generation to come through Nolan’s.
the Gulf Coast’s finest hand-cut Phillip and Jill have been helping
steaks and freshest seafood makes Nolan’s serve up some of the finest
your taste buds dance. Lastly, as locally caught seafood and hand cut
the thought “dance” enters into your steaks since 1987, when they moved
head, you hear that lively music from to Gulf Shores to assist Phillip’s
the back lounge, and you know you parents open the business.
are in for a truly remarkable dining
experience that only Nolan’s can When they’re not ensuring an
offer. That’s just the way the owners, amazing dining experience, you can
Phillip and Jill Harris, want to keep it, find Jill perfecting her backhand on
as their motto is “Exceeding Guests the tennis court or Phillip catching
Expectations”. Nolan’s is proud to red snapper in the Gulf. They also
offer a casual fine dining atmosphere enjoy cheering on the Crimson Tide
with live music every night for your football team every fall with their
entertainment. grandchildren and spending time with
their growing family.
The restaurant is named after
Phillip’s grandfather, who along with Next year, Nolan’s will be proud to
his grandmother, kept Sunday sacred celebrate 30 years of great service
while Phillip was growing up, as and superior food with the tourists
they partook in that great southern and residents of Gulf Shores, and
tradition of family meals after church. it is advised to bring two things with
It was during these formidable years you when you dine with them: an
that the joys of feasting with friends appetite and your dancing shoes!
and being surrounded by loved ones
cemented a deep desire to share
the joyous experience of dining with
others through Nolan’s, and Phillip
has perfected the dining experience
as he took the traits learned.

Philip and Jill are now proud that they
are introducing the 4th Generation of
their family to the business. All three