I love food and have explored Jacksonville, Florida’s food scene. This city has 47 amazing places to eat, each with its own special taste. You can find everything from farm-to-table meals to fancy rooftop views. My top picks are Catullo’s Italian, The Potter’s House, Azurea, Bones Pizza, and Culhane’s Irish Pub.
Key Takeaways
- Jacksonville’s restaurant landscape features 47 must-try local spots
- Diverse offerings range from casual dockside dining to fine-dining rooftops
- Standout local favorites include Catullo’s Italian, The Potter’s House, and Culhane’s Irish Pub
- The city’s culinary scene reflects its vibrant and eclectic character
- Exploring Jacksonville’s best local restaurants is a food lover’s dream
A Culinary Journey Through Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida, is a food lover’s paradise. It has a rich and diverse culinary scene. From Southern comfort food to global flavors, Jacksonville’s local eateries offer a memorable dining experience. They celebrate the city’s unique identity.
Exploring Jacksonville’s Diverse Food Scene
The heart of Jacksonville’s culinary gems is its local businesses. Places like The Fish Company, The Bread & Board, and Estrella Cocina showcase Jacksonville’s talent. These restaurants offer great food and support the local economy and community.
Jacksonville’s food scene is a mix of cultures. You can find fresh seafood, barbecue, and fusion dishes. Whether you love Southern food or global cuisine, Jacksonville’s best restaurants have something for everyone.
The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses
Supporting local eateries in Jacksonville, Florida is important. It helps the city’s food community thrive. These places are filled with local pride and showcase Jacksonville’s culinary talents. Your support nourishes your taste buds and helps the city grow.
| Restaurant Category | Percentage of Top 25 Restaurants |
|---|---|
| Upscale ($$$-$$$$) | 40% |
| Moderately Priced ($$-$$$) | 50% |
| Budget-Friendly ($) | 10% |
As you explore Jacksonville, check out the local eateries. They show off the city’s identity and celebrate its food community’s talent.
Must-Try Southern Cuisine Restaurants
Jacksonville, Florida, is a paradise for those who love Southern food. The city is filled with places that celebrate Southern flavors and traditions. You can find everything from shrimp and grits to fried chicken at these spots.
Where to Find Authentic Shrimp and Grits
For a true Southern dish, visit Azurea. They serve shrimp and grits that are known for their quality and taste. They use fresh, local ingredients to make this dish, with shrimp on top of creamy, cheesy grits.
The Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro is another great place for shrimp and grits. It’s a favorite for its rich flavors, making this comfort food hard to resist.
Best Fried Chicken Joints in Jacksonville
- The Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro is loved for its crispy, golden fried chicken. It comes with Southern sides like collard greens and mac and cheese.
- Biscottis is famous for its Guinness Beef Stew. But, it also has a popular fried chicken dish that many people love.
- Jenkins Quality Barbecue, featured in Southern Living Magazine, offers some of the best fried chicken in town. They also have amazing barbecue dishes.
These top rated restaurants jacksonville show the city’s skill in Southern cooking. They bring authentic flavors that take diners straight to the heart of Southern cuisine.
Seafood Lovers’ Haven in Jacksonville
Jacksonville is close to the coast, making it a paradise for seafood lovers. The city has a vibrant culinary scene with fresh catches and unique dishes. From The Fish Company’s famous oysters in Atlantic Beach to Dockside Seafood’s Mayport Shrimp Nachos, there’s something for everyone.
Top Spots for Fresh Catches
North Beach Fish Camp is right by the sand, offering stunning views of the Atlantic. Azurea at One Ocean Resort & Spa features a Local Catch Trio, showcasing the best seafood in creative ways. Kickbacks Gastropub is a local favorite, known for its seafood menu and over 180 beers on tap.
Unique Dishes to Try
- Caliche’s Poke Bowl at Salt Life Food Shack, a fresh and flavorful tribute to the coastal lifestyle
- Bangin’ Shrimp Tacos at TacoLu, a signature dish that has earned the restaurant national recognition
- Char-Grilled Octopus and Seared Diver Scallops at Azurea, showcasing the culinary expertise of this fine dining establishment
Jacksonville is a seafood lover’s dream, with a wide range of restaurants. Whether you want a casual beachside meal or a fancy dinner, the city’s seafood scene will impress you.
| Restaurant | Signature Seafood Dish | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| The Fish Company | Fresh Oysters | Renowned for its high-quality, locally sourced oysters |
| Dockside Seafood | Mayport Shrimp Nachos | Offers breathtaking views of the intracoastal waterway |
| Salt Life Food Shack | Caliche’s Poke Bowl | Showcases fresh, coastal-inspired cuisine tailored to a beachgoer’s experience |
| TacoLu | Bangin’ Shrimp Tacos | Nationally recognized for its signature seafood-centric dishes |
| Azurea at One Ocean Resort & Spa | Local Catch Trio, Char-Grilled Octopus, Seared Diver Scallops | Offers fine dining with breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views |
Dining on Jacksonville’s Historic Riverside
Jacksonville’s historic Riverside is a culinary treasure. It offers scenic dining and hidden food spots. Along the St. Johns River, it’s a favorite for food lovers and river fans.
Restaurants with a View of the St. Johns River
Enjoy the St. Johns River’s calm while eating at Riverside’s riverside restaurants. Mossfire Grill and Restaurant Orsay stand out. They have amazing river views and great food.
Hidden Gems in Riverside Neighborhood
- Moon River Pizza is a cozy spot for artisanal pizzas and a laid-back vibe.
- Harp’s American Pub and Grill serves southern comfort food. It’s a Jacksonville favorite for over 30 years.
- River City Brewing Company has a wide menu. It seats 325 people and offers a $25 prix fixe menu.
Riverside has something for everyone. Whether you want fine dining or casual food, you’ll find it here. The St. Johns River adds to the beauty of your meal.
Family-Friendly Restaurants to Enjoy
In Jacksonville, FL, families have many dining options. The city has family restaurants and kid-friendly dining spots for everyone. You’ll find casual places and lively brewpubs that suit all tastes and ages.
Best Casual Dining Options for Families
Strings Sports Brewery is a family-run place since 2019. It has outdoor areas for kids to play games like Connect Four and cornhole. The Main Street Food Park in Jacksonville’s historic area has a big astroturf area, games, and a small playground for kids.
The Bearded Pig BBQ downtown has a big outdoor area with a playground and a beer garden. It’s perfect for the whole family.
Kid-Friendly Menus and Activities
- ABBQ at Atlantic Beach has a fenced outdoor courtyard with games like cornhole and Connect Four, great for families.
- Capital Tacos on Atlantic Blvd has a kids eat free night on Mondays. They also have activities like coloring and reading to keep kids busy.
- Timoti’s Seafood Shak in Nocatee has a pirate ship playground on turf for kids to play while waiting for their food.
These family-friendly restaurants in Jacksonville make sure both parents and kids have a great time. They focus on creating a welcoming and fun atmosphere for everyone.
Trendy Eateries and Upscale Dining
Jacksonville’s dining scene is a mix of trendy spots and fancy restaurants. You can enjoy stunning views at Cowford Chophouse or French dishes at Restaurant Orsay. The city has something for everyone looking for a special meal.
Exploring Downtown Jacksonville’s Fine Dining
Cowford Chophouse is a top spot in Jacksonville’s fine dining scene. It’s in a historic building and serves classic steakhouse dishes with a modern twist. Restaurant Orsay offers a cozy yet elegant setting for French-inspired meals.
Must-Visit Trendy Cafés and Bistros
Jacksonville is also home to trendy cafés and bistros. BREW Five Points is famous for its breakfast tacos and coffee. These places mix old flavors with new techniques, offering a unique dining experience.
| Upscale Restaurants in Jacksonville | Trendy Cafés and Bistros |
|---|---|
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Jacksonville has something for everyone, whether you want a fancy meal or a casual spot. The city’s dining scene is always changing, offering a wide range of tastes and experiences.
Jacksonville’s Food Trucks: A Local Favorite
In Jacksonville, food trucks are a big hit. They serve everything from gourmet burgers to international street food. This variety meets the tastes of the city’s over one million people.
Top Food Trucks to Try in the City
Vucca Street Food is a new favorite in Jacksonville. It’s a food trailer that serves “Regional Italian-American” cuisine. Their menu includes dishes like the “Maialino” and two sausages, “Salsiccia” and “Pollo Umbriaco.”
Their chicken parm sandwich, “Parma,” is a standout. Vegetarians will love the “Mozza” sandwich with fresh mozzarella and pesto.
Vucca Street Food is quickly becoming a hit. Mobile dining in Jacksonville is loved, and these trucks are at the forefront. They offer amazing experiences for both locals and visitors.
The Experience of Mobile Dining
Food truck catering in Jacksonville is affordable for events. It’s perfect for weddings, graduations, and more. The city’s food trucks are a hit in neighborhoods and offices, offering a variety of meals.
The Best Food Trucks app makes finding food trucks easy. It shows where they are and what they serve. This makes it simple to find new places to eat.
“The food truck experience in Jacksonville allows diners to enjoy quality meals in a casual, outdoor setting, often at local events or designated food truck parks throughout the city.”
Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Jacksonville
Living in Jacksonville, I’ve explored the city’s breakfast and brunch scene. From diners to trendy spots, Jacksonville has it all. You can find everything from shrimp and grits to French toast. These are the top jacksonville brunch spots and best breakfast jacksonville places that I love.
Where to Find the Perfect Brunch
For a special weekend brunch, Restaurant Orsay in Avondale is a must-try. They offer dishes like roasted oysters and bourbon-orange French toast. Grumpy’s Restaurant is another favorite, with locations in Neptune Beach, Orange Park, and St. Johns. They serve classic brunch in a relaxed setting.
Local Diners with Classic Breakfast Fare
- Maple Street Biscuit Company: Open daily from 7 am to 2 pm, they’re famous for fluffy biscuits and big breakfasts.
- Jax Beach Brunch Haus: Open from 7 am to 2:30 pm, they have a wide brunch menu for any taste.
- Metro Diner: Known for chicken and waffles, they have a big brunch menu at over 50 locations.
- Uptown Kitchen and Bar: They serve breakfast all day, with vegan tofu scramble and shrimp and grits, open from 7 am to 3 pm.
- Biscottis: In Avondale, they serve brunch on weekends from 8 am to 3 pm, with dishes like crème brûlée French toast.
- The Local: In Neptune Beach, they offer a variety of brunch dishes, from waffles to short ribs, open Monday to Sunday.
Whether you want a classic diner or something fancy, Jacksonville has it. Check out the city’s breakfast and brunch scene. Find your new favorite jacksonville brunch spots and best breakfast jacksonville places.
Unique Bites and Culinary Experiences
Jacksonville’s food scene is full of unique flavors and unforgettable experiences. You can try award-winning Thai dishes at Indochine or enjoy Cantonese comfort at Blue Bamboo Canton Bistro. The city’s restaurants show a true love for authentic international food.
Restaurants Offering Unique Global Flavors
Indochine is known as “Best Thai Restaurant” and offers dishes like Crab Rangoon. It’s made with real crab and curried cream cheese. Blue Bamboo Canton Bistro blends traditional and modern Cantonese dishes. Try their Chinese BBQ Spare Ribs for a taste of something special.
Food Festivals and Events to Attend
- Jacksonville has many food events all year. They let you try different restaurants and local foods.
- The Jacksonville Food Truck Rally is a great place to find mobile food. You can try everything from savory to sweet.
- The Riverside Arts Market has local vendors, music, and a lively vibe. It’s perfect for food lovers and art fans.
Looking for authentic flavors or diving into local food culture? Jacksonville has it all. From unique restaurants jacksonville to jacksonville food events, there’s something for everyone.
| Dish | Restaurant | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|
| Crab Rangoon | Indochine | Thai |
| Chinese BBQ Spare Ribs | Blue Bamboo Canton Bistro | Cantonese |
| Smothered Pork Chops | The Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro | Southern |
| Local Catch Trio | Azurea | Seafood |
| Pesto Pizza | Bones Pizza | Italian |
How to Find the Best Restaurants in Jacksonville
As a food lover in Jacksonville, I’ve learned that finding the best places to eat takes some digging. Luckily, there are many resources to help me explore the city’s food scene.
Utilizing Apps and Social Media for Discoveries
Social media and food apps keep me in the loop about new restaurants and hot spots. I follow local food influencers and check out Yelp and TripAdvisor. Instagram feeds of popular Jacksonville restaurants also guide me to exciting new places and hidden gems.
Local Reviews: Trustworthy Sources for Recommendations
Local publications like Folio Magazine are also key for me. Their food critics know the best places to eat in Jacksonville. I also trust recommendations from other food enthusiasts in the city. They often suggest the most authentic and tasty spots.