About Us
With unapologetically soul-filled flavors of southern comfort, BBQ, and seafood, our wood-fired cuisine is unique to the Gulf Coast. Led by Executive Chef/Partner David Cunningham, everything we do is with a from-scratch mentality and created with purpose. Tell ‘em Mabel sent ya!
Our Story
Who is Mabel?
Mabel Strickland was a star cowgirl on the grueling rodeo circuit for over 25 years starting in 1916. Known to be as gentle as a dove to her friends and family she was also tough enough to wrangle and pin a 345 pound calf to the ground. Her fastest steer-roping time was an impressive 18 seconds. As a trick-riding expert, she could jump her horse over a car – and did. Mabel’s name is still held in high esteem and we’re happy to honor her spirit here at Blue Mabel.
Too much of a good thing can be wonderful!
Executive Chef David Cunningham
Native to south Louisiana, Chef David Cunningham grew up in a family of great cooks in Baton Rouge. David is a graduate of Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, SC. as well as a graduate of Louisiana State University. He received his formal training at the famed New Orleans Commander’s Palace, led the Commanders Palace Destin, and joined the team of V Seagrove as Executive Chef in 2011. There he created an eclectic ‘Gulf to Table” menu, quickly becoming one of the best restaurants on 30A. Beyond Chef Cunningham’s pedigree, he brings to Blue Mabel the accolade of both BBQ and Seafood “Best of Show” titles, was featured in Gourmet Magazine, and was an invited chef who cooked at the renowned James Beard House in NYC. Blue Mabel is a reflection on David’s early passion for cooking seafood and game on “open flames” in a style of wood-fired cuisine that is unique to the Gulf Coast.
Nikki Nickerson
Nikki Nickerson is a serial entrepreneur that loves farm-to-table cuisine, an amazing glass of wine, and bringing people together. She is the founder of the Cowgirl Hospitality Group, which includes Cowgirl Kitchen in Rosemary Beach, newly relocated Cowgirl Kitchen Market in Blue Mountain Beach, CK’s Feed & Supply in Rosemary Beach, Blue Mabel in Blue Mountain Beach, and Southern Belle Catering – all known for comforting, delicious food and an experience that will keep you coming back. Nikki goes against the grain in a male-driven industry. She made “kick back cuisine” a thing. She’s a fearless leader. She’s strong, she’s driven, and she embraces her grit that made the Cowgirl dream a reality. In 2019, Nikki was selected James Beard Fellow. She believes in gathering, breaking bread, sharing wine, and spending time with people. That mindset is where her love for restaurants and entertaining was born.
In the Spotlight
Awards & Recognitions
At Blue Mabel, we believe in providing an outstanding experience that will keep you and yours coming back to see us again and again.
Awards
Reviews
An Elevated Experience
Best Happy Hour on 30A
The only place to be every day from 3-5 pm is at the bar at Blue Mabel. It’s a kick back good time with even better bites and booze.
Locally-Sourced Ingredients
With some of the best eating right here among the salt water in our backyard, we believe in a gulf-to-table way of life.
Adventurous Spirits
From the old faithful bottles you know and love to the acclaimed spirits from all around the globe – you’ll find ’em here.
Best Brunch on 30A
Did we mention wood-fired food and bottomless mimosas are the only way to partake in brunch three days a week?
Cowgirl Spirit
We believe in the cowgirl spirit from the top of our cowgirl hats to the bottom of our boots. It’s a way of life around here.
Scratch-Made Food
Chef Cunningham is real good at this made-from-scratch mentality. It’s a beautiful thing – and those creations taste even better.
Press. Press. Press.
The Thirty-A Review
“Blue Mabel is already establishing itself as a presence…“
Cision PR Newswire
“Nikki Nickerson is selected James Beard Fellow, 2019.“
Hours of Operation
MONDAY – THURSDAY
3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
FRIDAY
3:00 pm – 10:00 pm
SATURDAY
10:30 am – 10:00 pm
SUNDAY
10:30 am – 9:00 pm
