Apalachicola
Apalachicola is a city and the county seat of Franklin County, Florida, United States, on the shore of Apalachicola Bay, an inlet of the Gulf of Mexico. The population was 2,341 at the 2020 census. Wikipedia.
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Attractions
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Multi-city stops
Top places to visit
State park
Museums
History Museums
Visit the John Gorrie Museum State Park in Apalachicola, Florida to explore the legacy of Dr. John Gorrie, a local physician and pioneer in air-conditioning technology. The museum showcases exhibits and artifacts that delve into his inventions, including a replica of his original ice-making machine. Gain insights into the history of the Florida Park Service and the cultural development of Apalachicola through temporary exhibits at this public museum facility. Additionally, learn about Dr.
A very small museum, that tells some information about a very important historical figure in John Gorrie. Plus some information about the Florida national state parks. A fun side experience if you are in the area that doesn't take to long. The Park Ranger when my family went was very friendly and knowledgeable. I very much recommend checking this place out.
Totally C — Google review
You can't go wrong with the Florida Park Service. This is a very small museum about a very large important invention.
Granted there might be more information about the FPS, but it is very interesting information as well as important.
Visit this museum and learn.
I gave this five stars because every state park is important. The building is half dedicated to John Gorrie and half to the history of the Florida Park Service. Both are interesting. I was hoping for more technical information on John Gorrie's ice machine and air conditioner. There is an interesting display of his patents and a scaled replica of his ice machine. Perhaps, as interest in this remarkable man grows, the exhibit will expand. If you are in the area, be sure to visit!
Yes, there is only a small section about John Gorrie, but the Florida Park service is full of its own history. The little building is just perfect size to house both exhibits, and I am glad that they included a section dedicated to the history of the state parks in Florida. You can find old uniforms, old brochures, and old photographs of the state parks through the years. Check out the neighboring grassy lots with parks and statues. You can even purchase a book about John Gorrie for $22.
Another great small museum. Lots of information on the inventor of the ice machine and air conditioning. Also, the museum has the honor of the Florida State Parks.
Visited two times first on a field trip in the 6th grade then again just 3 years ago. Must have been the influence for me going into the refrigeration and air conditioning business in late 70s.
Very small museum dedicated to a very important man. John Gorrie. Adjacent is the second oldest church in FL and also a monument and the grave of Gorrie. It's only $2 so enjoy while doing other similar things in Appalach.
Well worth the stop if you enjoy learning something about the area you are visiting. Ranger Roundtree was extremely well informed and well spoken. He made the visit to the museum a five star. He was engaging and lively and we left we an appreciation for Dr Gorrie and his story. Very memorable
46 6th St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
Temporarily Closed
Museum
Military Museums
Discover the captivating maritime history of Apalachicola by visiting the Apalachicola Maritime Museum. Although it has been closed for some time due to hurricane damage, efforts are underway to rebuild and reopen. Once operational, the museum will offer a variety of experiences including exhibits on historic boats and traditional fishing equipment, sailing tours on the fully restored skipjack Governor Stone, boat building and restoration programs, as well as educational programs focused on the local ecosystem.
Please visit and contribute.
This place is privately funded and is doing much good work on n our area of the PanHandle. It also offers classes and cruises. Recently it restored Debbie Reynold Steamboat which will be joining it's cruise fleet.
FJ M — Google review
A nice little nautical museum with a lot of information about the local maritime industry. The highlight of the museum is their beautifully maintained 58 foot wooden sailboat HERITAGE. A tour of this Herreshoff designed ketch is worth the price of admission alone.
A nice little museum to float your nautical spirit. An Eco-tour upriver was fun and informative. They even have a small gift shop with some cool stuff, not the usual junk.
We visited 2 years ago so I don't know if this place survived the hurricane or not. Hopefully it did. It was a very nicely done museum and well worth a visit. I can only hope it's still there
If you are in Apalachicola you have got to visit this museum. Very well done and gives you a good understanding of why and how the town came to be. Well worth the time.
This is a cool place to visit when in Apalachicola. There is some history to be learned here. They also offer excursions and a few other maritime activities
Great experience in years past. Hope it reopens very soon!
It looked good, but it was destroyed by Hurricane Michael. 2018
103 Water St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
affordable
Oyster bar restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Up The Creek Raw Bar is a relatively new addition to the town's dining scene, offering classic seafood dishes alongside unique menu items like tacos and seasonal specials. Diners can enjoy their meals indoors or on a waterfront patio, with views of shrimping boats cruising the Apalachicola Bay. The restaurant supports the local oyster industry and serves a variety of seafood options such as oysters, shrimp, crab legs, clams, conch cakes, and Gulf grouper.
We stopped in very soon after we got into town and I knew right away I wanted some calamari. I also got the gator bites since I don't get to have that very often. The calamari was the best of it. Very crispy and not chewy. The view was beautiful while we ate and the service was fast. The staff was also friendly.
Spirit A — Google review
Crazy delicious scallops! We got the grilled basket with hush puppies and they were perfect! The restaurant was just a bit busy, but we like that because it means it's fresh and popular. We got the raw oysters with creamy horseradish as well; I'm not normally an oyster eater but I surprised myself by eating a few because they were so fresh and delicious. Highly recommend 👍
It was alright. It is sort of a self service type place, gotta seat yourself, go up and order, and get your own drink. As far as timeliness and quality, not too bad. 5-10 min wait from order to table. The water had a funky taste. I ordered the Baltic Oysters and the Mahi (blackened) Fish Basket. Oysters were half decent considering it is a summer month. The mahi was well seasoned and tasted fresh so I would recommend! Fries were seasoned well; however, they weren’t hot, they were warm at best. Overall not a bad place to eat.
A wonderful spot. Pet friendly. Our little dog had a great time hanging out on the deck watching the birds and all over the water while we had fantastic appetizers and cocktails. Don't miss this spot!
The salad bar is okay.
The oysters are good.
The scalloped basket is a joke.
The scallops were the size of garbanzo beans.
We sent them back to the kitchen and ordered the crab cakes instead they were not cooked all the way and we're disgusting they would not refund our money.
There are a lot of restaurants in Apalachicola eat at one of them not this one.
I go everywhere and I review everywhere I go to let people know the truth so when they go they know what they're getting into. This place has the best oysters that I've ever had and I am from Clearwater Florida ride on the beach the atmosphere was great and again the oysters are worth traveling for they are the biggest freshest oysters I've ever had
Staff was friendly and attentive. Diners do have to order at the counter for service. Food is brought out to table. Food and prices were as we expected. Location is pleasant with a nice view of the river and salt marsh. Full disclosure, not our favorite restaurant in town, but I wouldn’t discourage anyone from eating there. Yes I would go back.
The food was great, you have to order at the counter.. fix your own drinks.. and for all the self-service, it's priced the same as place that are full service, but overall good food and place to go eat.
313 Water St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
Clothing store
Grady Market is a lovely upscale store located on the waterfront in Apalach. It offers a unique selection of clothing, gifts, kitchen gadgets, gourmet items, and more. The store has friendly staff and is known for its high-quality merchandise. While it may be a bit pricey, the quality of the items justifies the cost. The market carries a variety of men's and women's merchandise including jewelry, dresses, watches, and belts.
Great shop in a historic building! Reminded me of a high end boutique store of old, at least in my imagination!! Nice selection of mostly higher end products from shirts, to shoes and everything in between! Prices were a little higher than expected, but the quality was well worth the cost. I felt like I was discovering something new around every corner, plus the cool antique spread throughout the store added a bit of charm. I will definitely go back to look for more unique treasures. This is a must stop in Apalachicola! Shop Local, Support Local! Florida Man Approved!
CDaleJrGo — Google review
This was a great place with a large, high quality selection! Although it was a little pricey, the quality of the items definitely validated the price. They had a varied selection of men and women merchandise from jewelry and dresses to watches and belts. Located in a historic building, this place is a must see even if you don't plan on shopping!
This store seems to go on forever and I'm not mad about it! They have fun, interesting items and great prices! We purchased a t-shirt, 2 mugs, and a gorgeous tin of lip balm. It was fun to just walk around looking at the different areas (pet, garden, etc...). I highly recommend this store!
Had a great time shopping at Gradys Market. Love the handicrafts and the leather jackets. So much to choose from.
A lovely store located on the beautiful waterfront in Apalach. They have a nice selection of upscale shopping for family and home. It’s always a fun stop for us to browse when we’re in the area! I recently found a Stevie Nicks (she’s the best) shirt on a recent trip, left the store without it, thought about it all day and had to return for it later that evening. It’s really a lovely shop with a unique selection for everyone!
Great place, place has a wonderful vibe. Great coffee and treats as well.
What a beautiful area! This store is a little pricey but have some nice stuff.
Great upscale place to get clothing and gifts. They carry mostly ladies sport clothes but some cool guy stuff as well. Some kitchen gadgets and a few canned gourmet type items, drink mixers, beef jerky, jellies etc.
Over the years I have visited many times and always found the staff very friendly and helpful. Come here if you're looking for a nice gift. We will definitely be back.
Urban Cowgill
June 2023
76 Water St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
State park
Sights & Landmarks
Architectural Buildings
Orman House Historic State Park in Florida is a well-preserved 19th-century mansion that belonged to Thomas Orman, a prominent cotton merchant. The Antebellum home boasts Federal and Greek Revival design elements and offers guided tours for a small fee on select days. Adjacent to the mansion is the Chapman Botanical Garden, providing a tranquil setting with picnic tables for visitors to enjoy.
Beautifully restored historic home with a lot of incredible antiques, many of which actually belonged to the Orman family. Loads of interesting documents, original artwork, and the park ranger who provides the tour has a ton of knowledge and is a fantastic and enthusiastic story teller with a talent for relaying the family's history in an entertaining way. Definitely worth a stop in!
Crystal H — Google review
The house area temporarily closed as stated.
However, my husband and I decided to visit the botanical area on our vacation. The Chapman Botanical Garden area was certainly not worth the time. Tall grass, weeds covering flower beds and benches. Serious lawn & garden maintenance needs to be done. Certainly not a good attraction for those visiting out of town hoping to see beautiful landscape, gardens, and flowers surrounded by nature.
The home was closed for renovations during our visit, but we were still able to explore the botanical garden and the memorial. The garden is small but beautiful, with a lighted pathway, a few benches, and a pergola about halfway through—perfect for a quiet stroll. The memorial, dedicated to soldiers of the Vietnam War, was peaceful and thoughtfully done. There’s plenty of parking, and a few small lakes nearby with a sign warning about alligators.
Get Ranger Jeremy Roundtree to give you a tour! Such a beautiful home, with attached gardens and a three-soldier monument. Come see historic items inside this house that has been in the family for over 180 years. Check out the ancient furniture, and the mini replica food in the kitchen. take a minute to enjoy the beautiful floor to ceiling windows in the parlor and the dining room area. Pick up stairs at the attic and see some storage areas. Original outfits from the family are still in this house. It's amazing that this house is still standing through all of the weather and hurricanes in Florida. Give yourself a good hour and a half for the self-guided tour.
Exceptional museum with both family items and period items to give you a sense for how folks lived in the house. Highly recommend even the self-guided tour.
Had a great experience touring this piece of history. Our tour guide Ranger Roundtree was an excellent tour guide and we learned a lot. Best part was learning what an old fashioned ice cream scoop was. Would definitely recommend this place of you are interested in history.
Even though Orman House was closed due to Covid 19 virus, we were able to visit the grounds & the botanical gardens. There were several lovely butterfly gardens and some unusual vines and plants. Enjoyable for an hour or so.
Beautiful Park. Enjoyed walking around. House closed to this due to vivid. Would have liked to see inside.
177 5th St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
Top places to eat
affordable
Oyster bar restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Up The Creek Raw Bar is a relatively new addition to the town's dining scene, offering classic seafood dishes alongside unique menu items like tacos and seasonal specials. Diners can enjoy their meals indoors or on a waterfront patio, with views of shrimping boats cruising the Apalachicola Bay. The restaurant supports the local oyster industry and serves a variety of seafood options such as oysters, shrimp, crab legs, clams, conch cakes, and Gulf grouper.
We stopped in very soon after we got into town and I knew right away I wanted some calamari. I also got the gator bites since I don't get to have that very often. The calamari was the best of it. Very crispy and not chewy. The view was beautiful while we ate and the service was fast. The staff was also friendly.
Spirit A — Google review
Crazy delicious scallops! We got the grilled basket with hush puppies and they were perfect! The restaurant was just a bit busy, but we like that because it means it's fresh and popular. We got the raw oysters with creamy horseradish as well; I'm not normally an oyster eater but I surprised myself by eating a few because they were so fresh and delicious. Highly recommend 👍
It was alright. It is sort of a self service type place, gotta seat yourself, go up and order, and get your own drink. As far as timeliness and quality, not too bad. 5-10 min wait from order to table. The water had a funky taste. I ordered the Baltic Oysters and the Mahi (blackened) Fish Basket. Oysters were half decent considering it is a summer month. The mahi was well seasoned and tasted fresh so I would recommend! Fries were seasoned well; however, they weren’t hot, they were warm at best. Overall not a bad place to eat.
A wonderful spot. Pet friendly. Our little dog had a great time hanging out on the deck watching the birds and all over the water while we had fantastic appetizers and cocktails. Don't miss this spot!
The salad bar is okay.
The oysters are good.
The scalloped basket is a joke.
The scallops were the size of garbanzo beans.
We sent them back to the kitchen and ordered the crab cakes instead they were not cooked all the way and we're disgusting they would not refund our money.
There are a lot of restaurants in Apalachicola eat at one of them not this one.
I go everywhere and I review everywhere I go to let people know the truth so when they go they know what they're getting into. This place has the best oysters that I've ever had and I am from Clearwater Florida ride on the beach the atmosphere was great and again the oysters are worth traveling for they are the biggest freshest oysters I've ever had
Staff was friendly and attentive. Diners do have to order at the counter for service. Food is brought out to table. Food and prices were as we expected. Location is pleasant with a nice view of the river and salt marsh. Full disclosure, not our favorite restaurant in town, but I wouldn’t discourage anyone from eating there. Yes I would go back.
The food was great, you have to order at the counter.. fix your own drinks.. and for all the self-service, it's priced the same as place that are full service, but overall good food and place to go eat.
313 Water St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Apalachicola Seafood Grill is a well-known neighborhood diner that has been serving delicious seafood since 1903. The restaurant is famous for offering the world's largest fried fish sandwich and provides a casual atmosphere with high chairs in the bar area. It's located on the corner with the only street light in downtown, making it a convenient spot to enjoy grouper sandwiches, shrimp, oysters, hush puppies, and more.
Up To No Good (Apalachicola) is a GEM! Went in right after opening @ about 11 AM, self seated, picked our orders out, ordered at the counter - food came out within 15 minutes: hot, fresh, and DELICIOUS!
My wife and I recommend the onion rings, salmon (grilled) & flounder po boy sandwich. It is MORE than you can eat, for sure!
Landon W — Google review
Food was way overpriced for what you get. There are better options for price and quality in town. Some of the food items lacked consistency, like the shrimp tacos-with some having three shrimp and others only having two in the same order.
Unless you have a booze heavy tab, the service is lacking.
The grilled grouper sandwich I ordered was very good. Arrived to my table hot and fresh within 10 minutes by a friendly server. My sandwich was overstuffed to where it was almost fork and knife. The filet was cooked to perfection.
Now, as other reviewers have mentioned, the lady taking the orders seemed condescending and impatient to me and others. Same as she did to me last time I visited. She needs to smile, greet, and guide customers through their ordering process, not appear she's being bothered.
At $29 for a premium sandwich, though very good, I expect a better interaction experience.
Honestly, the food quality helps make up for her rudeness. It's worth a try.
This is still one of my regular stops when I visit Apalachicola.
I was surprised to read some of the reviews. My 2nd visit to this place and the food was great and the service was fast and friendly.
We had garlic shrimp and coconut shrimp and it was the best shrimp I've had. Cooked to perfection! The key lime pie I had to take to go - I just ate it and it was superb.
I'm not sure what the name of this place actually is but the location on maps is correct.
The Philly was really really good, and the staff were so nice. I will definitely stop everything I ride through.
Also known as "Up To No.Goof Tavern". The fried jumbo shrimp were awesome! Salmon basket was delicious. Alfredo was just ok. Fries cooked to crispy perfection.
The food was edible but not delicious. You go up to the counter and order, meanwhile she's ringing it up in the register. The prices were 2-3 dollars more than the table menu said. The Lady was very impatient and sort of rude. It was $107.00 for 3 people and a kids meal. I thought the atmosphere and staff could have been better. One of the meals was a personal pizza ,one was the special,no appetizers or alcohol in the order.
Just got married yesterday, had a small wedding put on the pier close to this restaurant, after the wedding, decided to take our pastor out to lunch, we chose this place. We come down to the area often, but haven't personally tried this restaurant. Went in, only noticed the sign saying we were to seat ourselves. We started looking around for a table, and just kind of trying to figure out what to do and a server was coming through with some plates, we hadn't noticed her yet, and we had been standing there for maybe 10 seconds, and she says "excuse me", but in that condescending tone, like you really wanna say get the bleep out of my way. We sat ourselves, sat there for close to 20 min before another server came by and said, "you know you order up front, right" ?! We said no, but thank you. Proceeded to get everyone's order and go place it. Sat back down and I guess our server was the previously rude one. She just continued to be rude, if she asked you something and you didn't give her an immediate answer, she'd scoff. Scoffed when you asked for refills, scoffed when we asked for a Togo box, to the point I almost snapped and asked her what the bleep her problem was. Left a bigger tip than what I should've, the food was pretty good, not great, not terrible, all interactions with the other servers were pleasant, just the dark haired girl seemed like she wanted to be doing anything else, other than what she was doing. This is coming from someone who is a food truck owner and has held every position in the restaurant industry, over a 23 year career.
100 Market St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
affordable
Restaurant
The Owl Café is a charming American seafood eatery located on the second floor of a historic building in Apalachicola, Florida. The restaurant offers upscale dining with a rotating menu featuring classic dishes such as pan-fried chicken, crab cakes, and blackened grouper. Guests can enjoy their meal indoors with crisp white linens or opt for outdoor seating on the porch during pleasant weather. The restaurant also serves fresh seafood daily and offers legendary brunch options on weekends.
I loved the Owl Cafe! We stopped in for lunch on Saturday and it was not overcrowded. There was an option for indoor seating or outdoors on the balcony. Our waitress was lovely and we had great service. There were paper covers over the white tablecloths and they have crayons for the children so we doodled on the paper while we waited on our food. I had the Cosmo to drink and it was delicious, and so was the fried shrimp. I will definitely be returning.
Claire R — Google review
My family and I detoured from our stay on Saint George Island over to Apalachicola for dinner at the Owl Cafe. Our first time ever to this beautiful real part of Florida. We all had delicious meals and shared deserts. I particularly enjoyed the fried oysters salad. The oysters were so good! We will be returning to this slice of heaven in Florida as soon as we can.
Tried the Owl Cafe for dinner and was not disappointed. The tables with white tablecloths always makes a statement to me. I ordered the fish and chips. 4 nice size pieces of fish with a breading that was just perfect, slightly crispy and not very thick. The fries were hot and crispy on the outside and soft inside. Some of the best fish and chips I have had. My wife had the chicken salad and she said it was very good and very fresh. The bread was good and I over heard people at the next table talking about the bread. For dessert I got the pecan pie tart which was delicious. Over all a fabulous dinner and highly recommended.
The food was delicious. The crab dip was really good. The Tripletail Ruben was very flavorful. The bacon egg and cheese was huge.
We reserved a table for 4 for 7pm. Got there at 6:50 and they were ready to seat us (Wed night). Our server was so friendly and knowledgeable. Our group ordered four appetizers, one entree, and two desserts. We also ordered cocktails. My pomegranate Cosmo was perfectly mixed. I was able to snap a picture of all of the appetizers, but the entree, the catch of the day (redfish) and the deserts (key lime cheesecake and pound cake) were eaten very quickly, so so good!
Historical Charm Meets Southern Hospitality!
We have enjoyed dining at The Owl Café for over 20 years. The menu is diverse and offers culinary dishes you won't find anywhere else.
We recently discovered "Duck Fries".
The server made the recommendation and I am so glad she did.
Fries cooked to perfection with a soft middle and crispy edges. Topped with duck crackling and cheese. I never knew I needed "Duck Fries" in my life until them. Now, I crave them repeatedly.
The staff has knowledge about the food and wine they are serving and they cater to you. The Owl Café is an elevated food experience!
We were so excited to try this place and wanted to love it so badly - but it was just not great. We had the carbonara, the ribeye, shrimp and grits, & duck fries. The shrimp and grits were the only thing that we truly enjoyed, everything else was bland & the chicken was rubbery. The duck fries werent bad by any means but did lack seasoning and flavor. Our Waitress was nice but not attentive and got our order wrong (we had specified certain things to be left off due to my 5 year olds food allergy and those requests weren’t fulfilled after being told it was no problem) Pretty pricey for food that tastes like Applebees quality. Maybe just an off day but for the cost we Sadly wouldn’t go back.
Food was great! Service was even better! Sherri took great care of us. Highly recommend French toast at brunch.
15 Ave D, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
Restaurant
Nestled in downtown Apalachicola, The Franklin Café is a popular spot for St. George Island breakfast offerings every day of the week. Their diverse breakfast menu features options like bagels and lox, chicken and waffles, and customizable omelets with various ingredients to choose from. This restaurant also supports the local oyster industry by serving a dozen fresh oysters alongside crisp IPAs from Oyster City Brewing Co.
Two times
I give them 5 stars solely based on our server (Devin I think) who served us both times. We were staying at the Inn for the Labor Day weekend, which was beautiful. We arrived Friday evening and decided to grab some food before heading to our room. The first interaction with anyone was a staff member telling us the restaurant closes at 9pm as we walked in at 830pm…. Brushed it off and we were seated outside.
We ordered raw oysters, stuffed flounder, and the chicken entree. The oysters were good, the rest not at all. Chicken was dry with no flavor and the flounder the same. Definitely could tell it was rushed out. When we asked about dessert, we were told the kitchen was closed…… umm? Server came back to tell us they would do it for us..We ordered tiramisu and cheesecake. The tiramisu was awkwardly large, like 3 normal sizes large…. Again, little flavor and poorly prepared. I assume this is something they make onsite. The cheesecake was just ok.
Decided to try again on Sunday. As we stood in line for about 30 min to even be spoken to, all we heard were the staff members apologizing that they are extremely understaffed. This screams poor management, but the couple servers they had were hustling. We were finally sat and ordered. Seafood dip, NY strip, and the catch of the day. Good lord what a disaster… the seafood dip was crab cake mix heated up in a bowl with burnt flatbread, gross. The steak was ordered medium rare, came out well done. Not even a half inch thick, so you can’t blame the cook, again a management problem. My wife said the Cobia wasn’t bad just needed some more seasoning. We decided to get the bread pudding which was pretty good.
The restaurant has good bones, but is screaming for help, the potential is there. Management needs to revise the menu, update decor, and do some basic training with the staff!
Michael G — Google review
My husband and I stayed at The Gibson and ate at The Franklin on 9/12/25, so not during peak busy season. Despite the restaurant being practically empty, the service was slow. The waitress was slow to refill drinks and at one point a kitchen staff member brought us food that wasn’t ours. My husband asked for his steak cooked medium-rare and it was well done. The brussels sprouts were undercooked and underseasoned. My crab cakes were okay. Overall, we paid $100 for a meal that wasn’t worth $100. The next night, we visited The Owl and paid $75 for a meal that was DELICIOUS. Skip The Franklin and visit The Owl instead!!
Have gone here for 5 years and watched the steady decline. Locals avoid. Service in the Parlor bar is nonexistent 4 people in the bar and 4 behind the bar. People had to go to the bar to get served. The wedge started a 1/4 head of iceberg, the 1/4, then a slice and now a slice of romaine. Nashville chicken burned. No one cares and menu is now 4 items long. After 5 years we have now joined the other locals in departing. See the photo of my screwdriver that had a head (soap??) I could not bring my self to taste it!
We thought it was the perfect place to take my sister for her 40th birthday…. Wow were we wrong . We had 9 women in our party and wanted it to be a night to remember. The food was good all except one steak came out raw . We nicely asked our waitress to please cook it to medium well. Long after we had finished dinner and waiting on our checks she brings back a completely burnt inedible steak. We nicely asked to speak to the manager and she refused to comp our one meal and was very rude saying we should pay for the mashed potatoes. It was completely ridiculous and caused a scene in front of everyone in the restaurant. It doesn’t matter how good the food is when your staff treats others the way this staff did, no one will remember the food . We will never go back and we will never recommend this restaurant to anyone. The owners should be more aware of their staff.
I don’t know what happened to Franklin Cafe, but this place has completely fallen apart. It used to be a neighborhood gem — warm atmosphere, good food, and a spot you could count on. Now it’s just a sad shell of what it once was.
The servers are consistently rude, dismissive, and act like you’re bothering them by simply being there. The chef clearly doesn’t care anymore — dishes come out bland, overcooked, and sometimes even cold, which is honestly comical for a place that once prided itself on quality. And the management? Nonexistent. It’s like nobody is steering the ship, and the staff just do whatever they want.
What was once one of my favorite go-to places has become a frustrating, disappointing mess. Save yourself the time and money — Franklin Cafe is no longer worth it.
First, we are experienced travelers. This is our 2nd recent visit to the Frankin Café. We sat at the bar. Second, we are not hard to please. All it takes is some knowledge about what you serve, some preparation before your shift, & a bit of enthusiasm. We wanted this to be a nice cocktail hour. My wife ordered a dirty martini. Out of olives/olive juice. Bartender was not familiar with her draft beer selection & didn't know her inventory of liquor. She had 8 people at the bar & couldn't remember who ordered what. We ordered the pimento cheese app. Cheese was good. Bread was stale. As a chef, I would have been embarrassed to serve it. As the upscale bar in the area, they really need to step it up. Our first visit last fall was not much better. It's a beautiful bar in a beautiful setting. We want it to be good. Do better Gibson.
Very pretty building, but we won’t be returning based on the food and management. Food was overpriced for the quality and quantity. For example, the crab stuffed Flounder dinner had less than 4 bites of Flounder, and the crab had a very odd taste. They were also out of many things and didn’t tell us until after we ordered and waited for it. We also got conflicting information about the specials and sides.
Breakfast took 40 minutes to make, my husband ordered 2 eggs over easy and the were over hard, with cold grits. I had toast that wasn't toasted, cold rosemary potatoes, my eggs were as ordered. Our server never checked on us and another server filled out coffee. There was two tables inside and two outside including us and everyone who came in after us was served quickly. So disappointed!! They need to step it up
The Gibson Inn, 51 Ave C, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
Coffee shop
Candy store
If you're in search of a delightful way to kick off your day, look no further than the Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company. This charming spot offers an array of house-made coffee options alongside delectable handmade chocolates, fudges, and truffles that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. You can also indulge in their homemade gelato and waffle cones while enjoying traditional breakfast and lunch fare, as well as a tempting selection of pastries and cookies.
The staff is so friendly and helpful with selections. The pastries are flaky, delicious and clearly homemade as they are amazing! The coffee is strong enough to get you through the day and tasty enough to keep coming back for more. There are a variety of chocolates and sweets to choose from also. They roast their coffee in house which is awesome and cool to experience. We come here every time we’re vacationing in the area and the staff is friendly even if you’re not a local! Definitely recommend.
Lauren L — Google review
They have great coffee here. Possibly the best. The Caramel Machiatto was absolutely perfect. The pastries were good. It was the only place open this early on a Sunday morning. The dude making the coffee was rude and lacked any positive personality qualities. But, he made a great cup of coffee.
I love this place! It’s unique and one of a kind and the coffee, pastries, chocolates, and Turkish delights are the best! The art surrounds you when you walk in and it’s great! Always something to look at. Can’t wait to come back to this gem.
Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company are the best! We ordered chocolate covered strawberries and assorted chocolates for my sister’s birthday, and they exceeded expectations. The chocolate is incredible. Highly recommend their chocolates!!
During my vacation to SGI and Apalachicola I visited at least 5 times and could have gone every day. Their coffee, breakfast offerings, desserts, chocolates and gelato are all delicious. Their strawberry chocolate Dubai desert is beyond amazing!
Must visit while visiting Apalachicola. Honestly everything in here is good. If you can't find something in here you like you just ain't living. Bring your checkbook lol
Update June 2025
Stopped in for iced coffee and found the same great service and fresh roasted whole bean coffee.
Sept 2018
I had a latte here the other day that was quite good. I could not resist the salted caramels that were simply amazing!!! They also do breakfast sandwiches too! I’ll definitely be back.
Urban Cowgill
September 2018
If you're cruising anywhere within two hours of Apalachicola, Florida, and craving a coffee that’ll rock your world, Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company is where it’s at. This little spot isn’t winning Michelin stars anytime soon—but it doesn’t need to. It’s got something even better: the best coffee for miles, killer vibes, and The Grateful Dead playing on the speakers. Yes, Jerry Garcia was serenading me as I sipped my latte, and it was absolute bliss.
The moment you step inside, you’re hit with a wave of good energy. The interior? Think cozy meets quirky—great furniture to sink into, shelves of merch you'll want to take home, and that irresistible aroma of freshly brewed coffee and handcrafted chocolate. It's the kind of place where you can sit for hours, people-watch, and maybe even strike up a conversation with someone about the town's rich history. (Apalachicola’s been around since the 1800s and once boomed as a cotton port—pretty cool, right?)
Beyond the vibe, the coffee is top-notch. Smooth, rich, and brewed with love. Pair it with one of their decadent chocolate treats or a scoop of their gelato, and you're set. Locals and tourists alike rave about this place, and I get it. One person’s review said, “It's a destination on its own.” I second that.
Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company is more than just a coffee shop—it's an experience. Whether you’re into great coffee, amazing treats, or just want to vibe out to The Dead while soaking up the town’s charm, this is your spot. I’m already planning my next trip back. Peace, love, and coffee, y’all!
75 Market St, Apalachicola, FL 32320, USA•
Best-of categories in Apalachicola
What's the weather like in Apalachicola?
It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Apalachicola for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.
- Weather in Apalachicola in January
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- Weather in Apalachicola in May
- Weather in Apalachicola in June
- Weather in Apalachicola in July
- Weather in Apalachicola in August
- Weather in Apalachicola in September
- Weather in Apalachicola in October
- Weather in Apalachicola in November
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All road trips from Apalachicola
- Apalachicola to Orlando drive
- Apalachicola to New Orleans drive
- Apalachicola to Atlanta drive
- Apalachicola to Panama City Beach drive
- Apalachicola to Tampa drive
- Apalachicola to Pensacola drive
- Apalachicola to Jacksonville drive
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Explore nearby places
- Port Saint Joe
- Mexico Beach
- Panama City
- Wakulla Springs
- Panama City Beach
- Tallahassee
- Marianna
- Grayton Beach
- Seaside
- Santa Rosa Beach
- Thomasville
- Niceville
- Dothan
- Fort Walton Beach
- Navarre
- Cedar Key
- Valdosta
- Chiefland
- Pensacola Beach
- Fort White
- Albany
- Gulf Breeze
- Milton
- Pensacola
- High Springs
- Perdido Key
- Williston
- Crystal River
- Homosassa Springs
- Dunnellon
All related maps of Apalachicola
- Map of Apalachicola
- Map of Port Saint Joe
- Map of Mexico Beach
- Map of Panama City
- Map of Wakulla Springs
- Map of Panama City Beach
- Map of Tallahassee
- Map of Marianna
- Map of Grayton Beach
- Map of Seaside
- Map of Santa Rosa Beach
- Map of Thomasville
- Map of Niceville
- Map of Dothan
- Map of Fort Walton Beach
- Map of Navarre
- Map of Cedar Key
- Map of Valdosta
- Map of Chiefland
- Map of Pensacola Beach
- Map of Fort White
- Map of Albany
- Map of Gulf Breeze
- Map of Milton
- Map of Pensacola
- Map of High Springs
- Map of Perdido Key
- Map of Williston
- Map of Crystal River
- Map of Homosassa Springs
- Map of Dunnellon
Apalachicola throughout the year
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