By Scott Miller
It seems appropriate to think of the things I am most thankful for as we gear up for the holidays. And there are many that come to mind. Yes, there are quite a few things that trump football and cause a thankful heart to beat within, especially time spent with family and close friends. But, since this is our beloved football section, let’s talk gridiron.
The College Football Playoff kicks off its first round in December 2025, with games on Friday, December 19, followed by three more on Saturday, December 20. The quarterfinal round continues on Wednesday, December 31.
Seems like every year there’s a new bowl game added to the mix — and why not? These kids deserve it and football fans love it. It’ll be interesting to see how the expanded playoff system shakes out and who gets crowned national champion this year. Where will you be watching?
Here along the Emerald Coast, we’re fortunate to have some of the best sports bars and restaurants around, ready and waiting to welcome us. They serve up great food, cold drinks, and make every game feel like a championship. So grab your crew, claim your spot and get in on the action — I hope to see you there!
AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
Since 1984, AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar has been serving cold Gulf Coast oysters and cool libations. What began as a popular local hang out known for fresh oysters and cold beer has grown into one of the most iconic “hot spots” on the Destin Harbor. From its humble beginning shucking oysters off the deck behind a small trailer on the Destin Harbor, it has grown to four locations along our Emerald Coast, serving fresh seafood, live music and exciting water activities in the Destin area. Attention all die hard football fans, AJ’s boasts the one and only Jumbotron on the Destin Harbor. AJ’s serves up delicious daily specials, mouth-watering drinks plus entertaining live music all month. Don’t miss any of the action just come on down to AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar all season long.
(850) 837-1913
116 Harbor Blvd.
FUBAR Pizza Bar
Looking for a sports bar to call home? Welcome to FUBAR pizza bar nestled on Okaloosa Island. Locally owned and family friendly, Fubar is known for its almost-famous pizza and wings and carries all sports games and live entertainment, along with impeccable service. You can enjoy all that while enjoying the waterfront view.
FUBAR has plenty of games for the kids along with pool tables, corn hole, dart boards and more. When out on the water all day, come dock your boat on one of FUBAR’S boat slips and enjoy the incredible view. Feel free to bring along your furry friends to join you on the patio.
Need the perfect space to host your Christmas or New Year’s party or event? FUBAR is equipped with numerous private sections with the option of having a private bar as well. The outside deck can hold up to 300 people comfortably and can be sectioned off to fit your needs. In addition to the pizza and wings, FUBAR can customize a menu from Italian food to Prime Rib and everything in between. Open 7 days from 11 a.m.-2 a.m.
(850) 226-7084
114 Amberjack Dr., Okaloosa Island
LJ Schooners Dockside Restaurant
Suds, Songs, Sunsets and Sports! Welcome to LJ Schooners Dockside Restaurant at the Bluewater Bay Marina Complex. Named after “LJ Schooner” (the LJ is for Lazy Jack), a cherished four-legged icon on Bluewater Bay Marina docks, the open-air oyster bar and restaurant offers a magnificent view of the water, marina and unparalleled sunset any time of year. There are, of course, oysters and a delicious varied menu with dinner specials such as blackened mahi and grilled shrimp with hollandaise, served over cheese grits.
Wednesday, Dec. 4: Prime Rib Dinner Special!
Dec. 13: Christmas Party with Chris Saylor 6-10 p.m.
Dec. 20: Santa Paddle Parade — 12 p.m.
Dec. 20: Christmas Boat Parade 5:30 p.m.
Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Party with Diamond Dan DJ
Wednesday Nights: Prime Rib Dinner Special, 5-9 p.m.
Thursdays: Taco & Margarita Thursday; Open Mic/Karaoke
Saturdays: Steak Night, 5-9 p.m.
Sundays: Bingo 2-4 p.m.
See ad for live entertainment each weekend. Dine-in, pick-up, to-go.
Oyster bar hours: Mon-Thurs 3-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-Midnight; Sun 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Restaurant hours: Mon-Tues closed. Wed-Sat, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
(850) 897-6400
bluewaterbaymarina.com/schooners
290 Yacht Club Dr., Unit 200,
Niceville in Bluewater Bay
