The V at Seagrove opens in time for season (PHOTOS)

The long-awaited V at Seagrove has finally opened its doors at the corner of County Roads 395 and 30A.

Chip Haring, George Hartley, and partners in Alabama and Texas bought the prime corner lot in 2004 with plans to build a small boutique three-story hotel. When the economy stalled, so did momentum in building.

To keep the project's development ordinance intact, the decision to move forward in phases was made last year.

The opening of the first-story V at Seagrove bar and 120-seat restaurant is Phase I.

Phase II will consist of 20 hotel rooms, a world-class spa, underground parking and a roof-top deck pool.

"We plan for the spa to be a destination in itself and put Seagrove on the map," said Haring.

Fractional ownerships are currently being sold to finance Phase II, with no set date for beginning construction.

Included in the plans will be construction of two gulf-front homes and 10 condos on three recently-acquired lots across the road. The middle lot will be left vacant so that guests on the north side will have a view.

The partners were aiming for a retro look in the building's appearance that would fit in with the community. Seagrove was founded in the 1940s.

"We looked at the architectural style of the old Seagrove Villas and wanted to preserve that style in the community," said Haring.

Inside, a large chandelier of beach twigs hangs over the bar. The large circular bar is open to the restaurant for a spacious and airy feeling. In keeping with the retro theme, the bar menu offers the popular mixed drinks of yesteryear such as Tom Collins.

"We wanted the cocktail menu to be fun," said Haring. "People want to go back to the age of elegance."

Outside, many choose to dine on the covered veranda along 30A. Fountains and pools lend a cool and posh appeal.

On the menu diners will find classic Florida fare of oysters, shrimp and grits, a variety of seafood and meats.

Under the Swimmers and Walkers categories, diners may choose a chef's pairing plate or build their own.

The menu was developed by Chef David Cunningham, consulting Chef David Carrier, General Manager Sean Goss and Hartley.

"We want it to be a James Beard-type restaurant, all farm to table, organically grown with fish brought in daily from the Gulf … a celebration of the coast," said Goss. "We make everything in house."

"A Seagrove high-end restaurant," added Haring.

Cunningham's resume includes a background at Commander's Palace. Carrier's background is at The Gibson Inn's Avenue Sea.

Goss has opened eight restaurants around the country including Seagar's and Rutherford's, and he has worked at The Capitol Grill.

Hartley owns other restaurants in the area, including Seagrove Village Market Café, George's at Alys Beach, and La Cocina. He has lived in the area for more than 10 years.

Haring's background is in stocks and bonds. His roots in the area go back far and he first bought in Seagrove in 1978. He divides his time between Seagrove and Auburn.

"We're happy to create something here and be a part of Seagrove," said Haring. "If this one is a success, we envision opening more around the country. You have to think big."

V at Seagrove opens at 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. For more information visit http://vseagrove.com.