The Gulf on Okaloosa Island

If I could take Nicole with me everywhere, I would! Hands down one of the best bartenders I’ve ever had. She’s friendly, fast, and somehow manages to make everyone feel like a regular.

Must stop on the water if you’re hungry. Better than all the other random water restaurants.

We love coming here!

Great service!! Nicole was quick and the drinks were delicious

The Gulf is our favorite place! Nicole behind the bar was incredible - we went twice on our vacation because of the great service!

This is one of my favorite stops when I’m over here on the island! The staff is always so nice and a major shoutout to our bartender, Nicole! She was lovely and made some amazing drinks

We got two orders of shrimp and they were old and chewy. The slaw was just slaw with no dressing or seasoning just raw cabbage in a cup. Hugely disappointing and threw the food in the trash. Tea was good though.

The food was great. Me and My Fiance had an awesome night out there. Romantic scenery. We enjoyed the view.

everyone here is very nice avery and aiden have really good customer service

Review of The Gulf – Deeply Disappointed by Staff Behavior I’ve always enjoyed The Gulf for its location and vibe, but what I witnessed recently left a bad taste in my mouth — and it had nothing to do with the food or drinks. During my visit, I saw a group of locals — polite, respectful folks — get kicked out over something as absurd as choosing to consistently order from one bartender. Anyone who’s ever been to a bar knows this is completely normal. It’s called building rapport — you tip well, get better service, and avoid confusion. It’s not a crime. But apparently, it’s offensive at The Gulf. What set things off was a heavier-set female bartender who seemed to take personal offense that these customers weren’t rotating their orders between her and others. Her reaction was way over the top — dramatic, confrontational, and clearly ego-driven. Whatever she told the manager must’ve been exaggerated, because the manager approached them with an awful attitude and basically told them, “I don’t care to hear your story — just leave.” The customers tried to pay and even went out of their way to tip the bartender who served them. Despite that, they were followed back to their boat, all because of this ridiculous escalation by staff who clearly don’t understand hospitality or basic professionalism. As a fellow local and business owner, it was disgusting to watch unfold. Staff should be trained to de-escalate, not provoke or punish guests for something so trivial. I won’t be recommending this place to anyone anytime soon. That kind of behavior is a stain on what could otherwise be a great experience. Do better, Gulf. — A local who expected more.

Food was cold … and the two female bartenders.. rude , must have been having a bad day ..

Our daughter got married there this past weekend April 26th, 2025. It was an amazing place for venue and food!!! The GM John is the absolute best to work with even if he’s a little on the short side (had to Boss Man)🤣🤣. He made the process so smooth and stress free! Couldn’t recommend it more. Thanks for everything and will be sure to stop again if back in the area!!

We are locals and truly enjoy the atmosphere at The Gulf! We have had the pleasure of having Nicole be our bartender and server numerous times. Her personality adds a bright light to our visits. She is quite the ambassador for The Gulf and our local community.

Nice place，good food and beautiful ocean view. Enjoy the views! Ms.Courtney is the best!

Awesome atmosphere. Bring you own water bottle.