Walk into downtown Stuart on a Tuesday night and you’ll see the usual sleepy coastal vibe. But then there’s Flagler Avenue. Specifically, there’s The Gafford. You can usually hear it before you see it—the low hum of a packed dining room and the clinking of martini glasses.
Honestly, finding a seat here without a reservation is like trying to find a parking spot at the beach on the Fourth of July. It’s tough. But there’s a reason people crowd the sidewalk waiting for a table.
The Story Behind the Name
The Gafford isn’t some corporate chain with a focus-grouped menu. It’s family-run. Rick Wilson and his wife Elizabeth opened the place back in 2012, taking over what used to be the old Flagler Grill. If you’ve ever wondered about the name, it’s a tribute to Rick’s grandparents.
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The whole "casual meets upscale" thing they pitch? It's not just marketing fluff. You’ll see guys in flip-flops sitting next to couples celebrating a 50th anniversary. It works because the food is high-end, but the attitude is pure Florida.
Rick’s son, Taylor Wilson, is the one running the kitchen. He’s an Executive Chef who clearly didn’t skip his lessons. He brought a mix of Texas-sized portions and Southern hospitality to the Treasure Coast, and Stuart hasn't been the same since.
What to Actually Order (Beyond the Hype)
Look, everyone talks about the steak. And yeah, "The Gafford" is a massive 20-ounce bone-in ribeye that could probably feed a small village. It's prime Revier Ranch beef. It's buttery. It's expensive. It’s also worth it.
But if you want to eat like a regular, you have to look at the other side of the menu.
- Mabel’s Fried Chicken: This is Taylor’s grandmother’s recipe. We’re talking boneless breasts, black dot gravy, and garlic confit mashed potatoes that are so smooth they’re basically a religious experience.
- Smoked Duck Wings: Forget buffalo wings. These are oil-crisped, tossed in a sweet chili and citrus glaze, and they have a following of their own.
- Southern Style Meatloaf: They label this "While It Lasts" for a reason. It’s a 14-ounce blend of short rib, chuck, brisket, and bacon.
The portions are huge. Seriously. If you order an appetizer and an entree, you’re taking a box home. That’s just the Gafford way.
The Bar Scene and Those Infamous Martinis
The bar at The Gafford is the heart of the restaurant. It’s tight, it’s loud, and the bartenders don't mess around. If you like an Old Fashioned, they do a version called "Rick’s 46" with Maker’s 46 and an ice ball that actually stays cold.
They’re also famous for their infusions. The Pineapple Infusion martini is a staple—Tito’s vodka that’s been sitting with fresh pineapple until it basically tastes like a vacation in a glass.
Happy Hour Realities
Happy hour runs from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (though the bar opens at 4:00 and dinner starts at 5:00). It’s one of the best deals in town if you can snag a stool. You get half-price drinks and discounted apps, but be warned: the "regulars" are dedicated. If you show up at 5:15 PM, you’re probably standing.
Why the Atmosphere Matters
Stuart has plenty of places where you can get a decent fish taco and a view of the water. The Gafford doesn’t have a water view. It’s tucked into the historic district, facing the train tracks.
But once you’re inside, the open kitchen makes the whole place feel alive. You can see the flames jumping from the sauté pans. You can see the chefs working. It creates this energy that makes you want to stay for another round of drinks.
It’s also surprisingly good for kids. They have a kids' menu, and while it’s an "upscale" spot, the staff doesn't give you dirty looks if your toddler drops a fry. That kind of lack of pretension is rare for a place serving $60 steaks.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
It isn't perfect. No place is. Because it’s so popular, the noise level can get pretty high. If you’re looking for a whisper-quiet romantic spot to discuss your tax returns, this might not be it. It’s a celebration spot. It’s a "we survived the week" spot.
Also, the menu online isn't always 100% accurate. They do daily specials based on what’s fresh, especially with their seafood like swordfish or snapper. Always listen to the server when they rattle off the specials; that’s usually where the best fish is hiding.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit
If you’re planning to go, don't just wing it.
- Book early: Use their online system or call. If it’s a weekend, book a week out.
- The Carrot Cake: Don’t leave without it. It’s seven layers. It’s massive. Just get one for the table and pass it around.
- Parking: Downtown Stuart parking is a nightmare on Friday nights. Give yourself an extra 15 minutes to circle the block or park over by the courthouse and walk.
The Gafford has managed to do something difficult: they’ve stayed relevant in a town where restaurants open and close like the tides. It’s because they don’t cut corners on the ingredients, and they treat the staff like family. Most of the servers have been there for years, and that shows in the service.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
- Check the Calendar: They are typically closed on Mondays. Plan your week accordingly.
- Dress Code: Don't overthink it. Nice jeans and a collared shirt are the standard "Stuart Tuxedo" here.
- Arrival: If you have a 7:00 PM reservation, show up at 6:30 PM. Grab a drink at the bar if there's room, or walk across the street to the shops while you wait.
- Dietary Needs: They are surprisingly great with gluten-free options. Just tell your server; they actually know what’s in the sauces.
Go for the ribeye, stay for the vibe, and make sure you’re hungry when you walk through the door.