Search
Close this search box.

KC’s Sandbar, Tapworks, and TASTE to close in Downtown Fort Walton Beach

Three popular downtown establishments in Fort Walton Beach are closing their doors, marking the end of an era for local dining and nightlife. KC’s Sandbar and Grille, the longest-running of the three, has been open for 18 years. Tapworks has served the community for 11 years, while TASTE has been in operation for seven years. The […]

Three popular downtown establishments in Fort Walton Beach are closing their doors, marking the end of an era for local dining and nightlife.

  • Owners Mike and Bev Parker announced Monday via social media that KC’s Sandbar and Grille, Tapworks, and TASTE will be shutting down. The closures affect businesses that have been fixtures in the community for nearly two decades.

KC’s Sandbar and Grille, the longest-running of the three, has been open for 18 years. Tapworks has served the community for 11 years, while TASTE has been in operation for seven years.

The establishments have been known for hosting events, supporting local causes, and fostering community spirit in downtown Fort Walton Beach.

In their social media announcement, the Parkers invited patrons for a final visit, stating, “Please come enjoy 50% today and tomorrow [Tuesday] to see our staff one last time for some good beers and laughs.”

While no specific reason for the closures was provided in the announcement, the loss of these establishments marks a significant change for Fort Walton Beach’s downtown scene.

4 Responses

  1. Here we come Mike and Bev. Love you and we will sadly miss your wonderful hospitality. We surely understand that siver lining of retirement.

    1. Kcs is a very good hang out for many locals even and all the way from Destin to Pensacola people go there..I went to many events and weddings ..reggae concerts..you will be missed dearly ..love the only beach in fort Walton kcs sandbar!!!
      Thanks for everything you did..hope to see you back one day maybe have your kids or grandkids bring it back..much love n hugs from Destin..☸️

  2. Oh No I just found out about it.
    Have Loved your places for YEARS…!!!!

    Sorry I missed your last Ho-Raww.

  3. I met my fiance at KCs and we have the coordinates tattooed on us. Thank you for the great memories

Join the conversation...

Continue reading 👇

Community Comments

“Why not fix the dog parks adjacent to red lobster?”
Respond
“They spend 3.75 MILLION dollars of tax payer money and don't know what they are going to do with the property? If your child came in your home and said...”
Respond
“If Walton County was not so greedy and decided to “TAKE” what they wanted instead of “buying” it like other areas (Destin/Okaloosa County)have, this might have never been a problem....”
Respond
“I remember both Kathy & Lee from their work with the church youth program. Despite being a Catholic "yankee" visiting each summer I have never found a more welcoming place...”
Respond
“Hey Lee. I am so glad Danny sent this article to all the Szarowicz siblings! Congratulations on an amazing career!!! Wish I had been there to witness it. I remember...”
Respond
“Congratulations, Lee, and the very best wishes to you and Cathy during your retirement years. A heartfelt thank you on behalf of my Bolton family for your attention and care....”
Respond
“There is no public parking…note from article, “The beach bar is accessible only to Sandpiper Cove residents and guests, along with people walking up from the beach.” Walk in from...”
Respond
“This should NOT BE ALLOWED in single family residential neighborhoods.”
Respond
“It's amazing that the State of Florida can come up with money to purchase 2483 acres for a new park. But Caladesi Island State Park, Cayo Costa State Park and...”
Respond
“What a beautiful story of past, present, and future. Lee, you have left an amazing legacy. These words from Matthew 25:21 are fitting for you, ‘Well done, good and faithful...”
Respond

GET OUR FREE LOCAL NEWSLETTER

Get the weekday email that actually makes reading local news enjoyable again.