Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is set to bring new energy to Panama City Beach, launching a major hiring event on February 15th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Captain Anderson’s Event Center, 5550 N Lagoon Dr #2.

 

The iconic venue aims to fill around 200 roles ahead of its grand opening at 8795 Thomas Drive, the former site of Spinnaker Beach Club.

 

This three-story, 7,200-square-foot space, now revitalized after Hurricane Michael, promises live Nashville-style country music, a dance floor, pool, and panoramic beach views.

 

Tootsie’s will be family-friendly until 8 p.m., then strictly 21+ with ID, offering no cover except for special events.

 

Guests can expect a varied menu of seafood, burgers, wings, and a signature country boil, with full service most days until 9 p.m.

 

The opening is targeted for late February 2026, with potential performances by country stars like Luke Bryan and Riley Green.

 

This hiring drive marks a unique chance to join a dynamic new hub for music and fun in the local community.

Emeril’s Coastal Restaurant in Miramar Beach will close permanently on October 26 after eight years of serving the community.

 

Located at 435 Grand Boulevard, the beloved restaurant has been known for its creative Gulf seafood and New Orleans-inspired Creole dishes, earning a devoted following among locals and visitors.

 

Chef Emeril Lagasse shared his gratitude with heartfelt thanks to guests and staff, calling Coastal a labor of love and expressing how much the community has meant to him.

 

The menu, featuring favorites like BBQ Shrimp, the Coastal Fried Seafood Platter, and Fresh Catch of the Day, has made the spot a staple for memorable meals and special occasions.

 

As news of the closure spreads, patrons are encouraged to savor a final meal and celebrate the experiences that have defined Emeril’s Coastal as a cherished local gathering place.

Bay County residents are voicing a strong appetite for new dining options, spotlighting several national chains they'd love to see locally.

 

A recent community poll drew 224 participants, revealing Cheesecake Factory as the top pick with 31% of votes, followed by Macaroni Grill and P.F. Chang's.

 

Other popular choices included Raising Cane's, Tim Hortons, and Shake Shack, underlining a hunger for variety.

 

Beyond the poll, locals suggested dozens of favorites—like In-N-Out Burger and Mellow Mushroom—highlighting a desire for even more diversity in their food scene.

 

Recent restaurant openings aim to meet that demand.

 

McGuire’s Irish Pub is under construction and slated to open early next year, while a new Costa Family McDonald’s recently opened to much fanfare on Highway 390.

 

Bay County’s dining future looks promising as the community’s tastes evolve and new establishments settle in.