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Joe and Eddies closes in Fort Walton Beach after 68 years

On Tuesday morning, Ann Perillo, the owner of Joe and Eddies, made the announcement that after 68 years, her beloved restaurant will be officially closing down. Perillo says, “this was not an easy choice because it is a piece of my heart, but I am ready to hang up my apron.”  In the announcement to […]

On Tuesday morning, Ann Perillo, the owner of Joe and Eddies, made the announcement that after 68 years, her beloved restaurant will be officially closing down.

Perillo says, “this was not an easy choice because it is a piece of my heart, but I am ready to hang up my apron.” 

In the announcement to her customers, she says, “thank you to Fort Walton Beach and everyone from Alabama and surrounding states.” 

As Joe and Eddies has been family-owned and operated since 1954, she says that many special memories have been made. Perillo states, “the amazing people I have met over the past 68 years are friendships I know will last.”

Many customers have expressed their sadness over their favorite local restaurant closing. For decades, Joe and Eddies has been a staple in Fort Walton Beach.

“As most of you know, all of my children and my grandchildren have worked here with me at one time or another,” she said. “I will fondly hold all of those memories and keep them very close to my heart. I just wish I could have lasted for my great grandchildren also.”

Joe and Eddies was well-known for their home cooked meals and service.

In closing, Perillo says that she knows her “husband is looking down on me now, smiling, and saying ‘You got it made’.”

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Community Comments

“How will this impact owners? It seems there are quite a few of these condos coming on the market this spring.”
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“If these property owners want to deny others access to the beach because it’s their property, then those private property owners are responsible for the beach renourishment cost. Why should...”
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“waaay too short for PGA though (and lack of parking). theyd have to play windswept or something”
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“My vote is for it to be a public owned event space that can actually be rented out for a reasonable cost to individuals and free for not for profit...”
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“I used to work at the Red Mobster 15 or more years ago making the biscuits and baking potatoes”
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“We moved to Florida to our retirement home in Niceville in 1991. It was at Crestview Nursery, when we met Sheila as a sales person. As time progressed she assisted...”
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“Sandestin's Raven hosted The Boeing Championship - PGA Champions Tour - 2006-2207 after moving from The Moor's in Milton EdEich@msn.com”
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“I think this is a great idea - unique property with waterfront, adjacent to LJP, on 98 - and built with bed tax dollars to draw more vacationers. Sounds like...”
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“I’m so sorry to hear about Sheila’s passing. We were friends a long time but had lost touch. She was so very smart and a really nice person. My condolences...”
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“Praying firvofficer and his family”
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