The culinary landscape of Niceville is about to be transformed with the grand opening of PB&J Bistro and Café, located at 120 Partin Dr N. Owners Chef Phillip Bauer and his wife, Jess, the dynamic duo who captivated the community at the City Food Hall in Destin
Commons, are bringing their vision of upscale yet affordable cuisine to Central Partin in Niceville.
Jess and Chef Phil’s combined journey began at the City Food Hall, where their lunch service quickly gained a loyal following. Chef Phil has been in the culinary industry locally for more than 20 years, most recently at The Wine Bar, The Henderson Resort, and Bitterroot, as their Sous Chef. Now, they aim to elevate the dining scene in Niceville with a unique blend of culinary artistry and heartfelt hospitality.
Chef Phil, an avid runner and culinary artist, crafts the innovative menu, while Jess’s meticulous attention to detail (from being a practicing attorney in the area the last 12 years) and love for people ensure an exceptional dining experience. Together, they embody the perfect partnership, just like peanut butter and jelly.
Stepping into PB&J Bistro & Café is like entering a 1920s speakeasy. The transformed space features art deco walls, dark purple drapes, and a Le Chat Noir vibe that invites guests to relax and enjoy. The welcoming staff’s kindness and dedication to service add to the enchanting atmosphere.
The menu at PB&J Bistro Café promises to tantalize taste buds. Start with Buñuelos, Cuban Fritters made with Manchego cheese, or the Roasted Beet Caprese, combining earthy beets with house-made lemon ricotta. Main courses include the exquisite Pistachio-Crusted Grouper and Jerkin’ Angus Farms Red Wine-Braised Short Rib. With around sixteen locally sourced purveyors, including King’s Table Farms, Sweet Grass Dairy, and Westonwood Ranch, PB&J Bistro & Café emphasizes community and quality.
Jess and Chef Phil are committed to providing the best local ingredients, and ensuring a dining experience that is both delicious and sustainable, with the goal of bringing a community together through food.
They hope to live up to their motto, “We’re Better Together,” in all aspects of their business model.
Located in Central Partin, a collection of locally owned businesses in the heart of Niceville, PB&J Bistro & Café is part of a walkable, community-driven experience concept. Steve Schutt, owner of Central Partin, praises the new addition, saying, “Amazing food, atmosphere, and people. This will be a staple in town.”
Jess shares, “It was OUR dream to open this restaurant! We are achieving it, eight years and three months after I realized that Phil and my initials spelled PB&J, where the whole dream started.”
The restaurant features a secret door bookcase with a free, leave-a-book, take-a-book concept, revealing a hidden private dining room for special occasions. PB&J Bistro Café will be open Tuesday through Saturday, serving lunch from 11 am to 3 pm and dinner from 5 pm to 9 pm. Come experience the exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and unique ambiance that PB&J Bistro & Café brings to Niceville.
John Sallman is the Broker/Owner of Salt and Light Realty and a regular contributor to Midbaynews.com. In addition to serving others as a realtor in the Niceville and Valparaiso areas, Sallman is a world class chef, with more than a decade of experience in the finest restaurants along the Emerald Coast.
Sallman, a Niceville resident since childhood, has experience in all types of real estate transactions. His brokerage specializes in sales and property management. reach out to him today at John@saltandlightrealty.com.