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BUSINESS

Boathouse in Destin gains new owners

Heather Osbourne | 315-4440 | @heatheronwfdn | hosbourne@nwfdailynews.com
The Boathouse was recently purchased Chris and Missy Schofield, who are in the process of renovating the popular restaurant's kitchen. [FILE PHOTO]

The Boathouse Oyster Bar and Grill has temporarily closed its doors after being sold on New Years Day.

Chris and Missy Schofield, the new owners of the Boathouse, said locals can breathe easy because the eatery will remain exactly the same.

"We're just working on the kitchen," Missy said. "We're going to remodel the kitchen, re-arrange it and make it more efficient."

The Boathouse, located at 288-B Harbor Blvd East in Destin, is known for its live music and dollar bills and bras decorating the walls and ceilings.

The Boathouse was founded in October 1986 by Wanda “Mama Gumbo” Green and Paul “Action” Jackson, both of whom have since passed away. It’s in the same location in the heart of the Destin harbor as it was when it first opened more than 30 years.

In July of 2016, the Boathouse opened a neighboring bar called The Upper Deck.

Missy said The Boathouse will remain closed until mid-February while the kitchen is remodeled. She added that although the details have not been solidified, there may be minor changes to the menu.

"Most of the menu will stay the same," Missy said. "The oysters and everything will still be there. It's the same old Boathouse."

Missy previously worked for the Boathouse for 10 years and has managed the business' books since 2009.

Her husband Chris is the captain of the charter boat No Alibi, which docks near the restaurant.

"I'm excited," Missy said about owning her new business. "I still have a lot of work to do."

FISH FLASH with Tina Harbuck