Summer seems to want to linger at the beach just a bit longer. The calendar says otherwise. After enjoying yet another warm weekend, it may be hard to pack the barbecue away for the winter.

The evenings are getting a bit cooler and morning fog is welcoming us to the change of seasons. This change may mean a change in your dining palate as well. One of the great things about fall dining is comfort food. You know, slow cooked dinners, with heaping servings of mashed potatoes and gravy. Our tastes turn from light dishes and refreshing salads to the likes of meatloaf and roasts simmering in the oven. Let’s explore some great places right here on the beach to find those warm comforting dishes.

One popular breakfast go to is biscuits and gravy. Ocean Shores has a few great choices for this delicious way to start the day with a hearty breakfast. Our Place is a favorite with locals and tourist alike. Generous portions cooked to order. Friendly service and a menu with something for everyone. Their biscuits and gravy breakfast choices are first rate. But get there early. And be prepared to wait. It will be worth your while. Located at 676 Ocean Shores Blvd NW. They are only open from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Get up early and visit Our Place.

Another fun spot for a great biscuits and gravy breakfast is the Ocean Beach Roasters. Delightfully on the gourmet side for offerings, they have an eclectic breakfast menu that is served all day. Beginning Oct. 1, they will add a nightly Happy Hour to their schedule Monday – Friday from 4-7. Along with crafted sandwiches, homemade soups, pastries and confections, they offer a beer and wine menu that is one of the best in the North Beach area at 841 Point Brown Ave NW.

For lunch when you’re on the beach, you can’t go wrong with clam chowder. So many choices that we even host a festival and cook-off to celebrate all things clam. Sunny Beach Café was the first-place winner of the chowder competition at this last Razor Clam Festival. Stop by and see them Wednesday – Sunday 7 a.m.-3 p.m. at 687 Point Brown NW. Galway Bay Irish Pub has an amazing variety of warm savory dishes for the cool days. One dish to try is the Beef in Guinness. Tender chunks of beef with carrots, potatoes, onions and mushrooms slow cooked for hours in Guinness stout. Make plans to stop in on Sunday night for a traditional Pot Roast dinner, only $11. Plan to put on your kilts and dancing shoes and take part in the 13th annual Irish Music Feis beginning Tuesday Oct. 18 until Sunday Oct. 23.

We’re also at work on some fun local features coming up, such as a business pumpkin carving contest and Ocean Shores Spooktacular Trick or Treating.

We’re looking forward to a festive fall on the Beach.