New Orleans' fabled Commander's Palace Family of Restaurants (Lally Brennan, Ti Martin and Alex Brennan-Martin) had a massive $6 million rebuilding of its flagship Commander's Palace to get it back up and running after Katrina. But recently Commander's Palace has opened another outpost in--huh???--Destin, Florida. Not that it's really that weird, just seems a little random after the branch in Vegas closed due to the Aladdin's renovation. Danny Trace is the chef overseeing this ambitious new waterfront property in the Emerald Grande at the new HarborWalk Village. It opened in July with a haute Creole menu that showcases locally sourced Southern and Floribbean ingredients.

I guess the location has more to do with the Brennans' vacation predilections. Says Ti Adelaide Martin: “Our family has vacationed on Destin’s beautiful beaches for more than 30 years – it’s where we go to play! We invite Destin locals and visitors to join us for some eating, drinking and carryin’ on!”

Don't mind if I do, Ti. (34 Harbor Blvd., Destin, FL; 850/337-8555)