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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 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.

PROMOTION

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

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Community Comments

Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: December 12, 2025
“1 min 28 sec”
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“I’d like to know who she replaced, or is this a new position?”
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“2 minutes, 3 seconds...”
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“Monetary issues and our incompetent superintendent wants to close schools. Why don't we reduce the total number of administrative positions. The drop in student numbers should also reduce the number...”
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“Maybe could utilize temporarily as an indoor flea market ?”
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“It was Oakland Heights Elementary School on the Mary Esther Cutoff where the Home Depot now does business.”
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“Mary Esther enrollment does not seem down when kindergarten classes are packed at 22 and about 1/4 of those students are not 100% English speaking. I think there is more...”
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Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: December 11, 2025
“3 min 22 sec”
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“As one of three siblings of a military family who attended Mary Esther Elementary...sad to see the announcement of it's closure. Many happy memories of friends, teachers, hours playing on...”
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Denise commented on WordroW: December 11, 2025
“Finally got it.”
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