Apalachicola was laid out with streets and parks after Philadelphia, the model city of its time, in 1835. As in Philadelphia, Apalachicola's plan fashioned the town in a rectangular manner with an open square located near each of its four corners and a larger square at the town's center. Wharf lots were laid out along the Apalachicola River, with warehouse, commercial, and residential blocks beyond.

A shrimp and crab boat on Apalachicola's coastline during Christmas time

In the 1830s Apalachicola became the third largest port because of the cotton trade before the War Between the States, and after the cotton bust, turned to sponges, timber, and shrimping. It now harvests 90 percent of the oysters consumed in Florida and 10 percent of the nation’s oyster supply. The harvesting of shrimp, blue crab and finfish also plays a major role in Apalachicola's economy. The waters surrounding Apalachicola are among the cleanest and purist in the world. From these pristine waters comes delicious prized seafood, some of the best in the state.

Apalachicola is oyster, shrimp and seafood heaven. Whether you are looking for delicious gourmet cuisine or casual fare like oysters, Apalachicola has an array of excellent restaurants in breathtaking locations. Many local restaurants overlook the beautiful Apalachicola River and Bay, while others are tucked away in Apalachicola's historic downtown.

Source: Florida Seafood and Agriculture