T

he Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen restaurant had their ribbon cutting event to 
celebrate the opening of their new restaurant on the Emerald Coast, on April 
26. Paula Deen was also on hand to cut the ribbon herself, do some book 
signing, photo ops and chat with her fans and supporters. Destin’s Mayor, 

Gary Jarvis welcomed the restaurant to Destin, and said, “It’s always good to have some 
good Southern food right around the corner.” He was also joined by the area Chamber of 
Commerce CEOs; Shane Moody of the Destin Chamber of Commerce, Tricia Brunson 
with the Niceville Chamber and Megan Harrison with the South Walton Chamber to give 
Paula Deen a rousing welcome.

Paula Deen started her restaurant in 1989 in a humble way; when she started The Bag 

Lady out of her home. The Bag Lady began as a lunch delivery service with Paula’s sons, 
Jamie and Bobby, delivering bag lunches to area businesses and offices around town. As 
the delivery and catering businesses grew, The Bag Lady expanded in 1991 into a full 
service restaurant. Now at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, guests will enjoy classic Deen 
family recipes in a unique family-style setting just like they do in their very own homes. 
The restaurant serves up endless portions of Southern-style entrees and side dishes, and 
every visitor ends their meal with a dessert of their choice. The restaurant brings friends 
and families together over a meal, while offering up a one-of-a-kind dining experience 
you’re sure to remember.

photos & story by

Zhalman Harris

   VIP Destin at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen

RIBBON CUTTING

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Sami Farley & Mindy Dickenson

Hattie Auclair & Valerie Sims

Renee Groom & Jackie Kirley

Charlee Mullen & Gale Smith

Brooke Zannis & Susan Kesel

Gelin Shelley & Christine Martinez

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