I love seafood and live in Jacksonville, Florida. The city has a great food scene with many top seafood spots. You can find everything from casual places by the water to fancy restaurants. In this article, I’ll share the top 15 seafood restaurants in Jacksonville, FL. It’s a peek into the city’s lively seafood culture.
Key Takeaways
- Jacksonville, Florida, is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of top-rated seafood restaurants
- The city’s diverse seafood scene features a mix of casual waterfront eateries, family-friendly spots, and fine dining establishments
- Locally sourced, fresh seafood is a hallmark of the best seafood restaurants in Jacksonville
- Iconic seafood restaurants like The Marker 32 and Two Dudes Seafood have been staples in the local community for decades
- Waterfront dining experiences with stunning views are a highlight for many seafood enthusiasts in Jacksonville
1. Introduction to Jacksonville’s Seafood Scene
Jacksonville, Florida, is a coastal gem with a vibrant seafood culture. It sits by the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean. This city is a haven for those who love fresh seafood.
From Mayport shrimp to grouper fillets, Jacksonville celebrates the sea’s bounty. Its culinary landscape is filled with the flavors of the ocean.
A Brief Overview of Local Seafood Culture
Jacksonville’s seafood scene is deeply rooted in its coastal heritage. Restaurants here get their fish and shellfish from local fishermen. This ensures every dish is fresh and of high quality.
Mayport shrimp, a local favorite, are known for their sweet and tender meat. They are a key ingredient in many dishes in the city.
Why Jacksonville is a Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Jacksonville’s dining scene offers a wide range of seafood options. From traditional Southern dishes to innovative fusion, there’s something for everyone. The city’s restaurants focus on the natural flavors of the sea.
Whether you want a classic fried shrimp basket or a seafood tower, Jacksonville has it all. It’s a place where every seafood lover can find something to enjoy.
Jacksonville is a true seafood lover’s paradise. Its coastal location and vibrant food culture make it special. The city’s focus on sustainability, local sourcing, and creativity in the kitchen delights both locals and visitors.
2. The Classics: Iconic Seafood Restaurants
Jacksonville, Florida, is famous for its lively seafood scene. It has a rich history in food that has lasted for years. Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Singleton’s Seafood Shack are two places that have become famous.
Safe Harbor Seafood Market
Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant is by the water in Mayport. It offers a real seafood experience. You can enjoy the freshest seafood while seeing boats come in.
The menu has local favorites like smoked fish dip and oyster po’boys. These dishes show off the area’s sea heritage.
Singleton’s Seafood Shack
Singleton’s Seafood Shack has been a favorite for over 40 years. It’s in Mayport and is known for its seafood. The place is casual and serves fresh, local food in a friendly setting.
These two restaurants show why traditional seafood spots are loved in Jacksonville. They focus on the best local seafood. Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Singleton’s Seafood Shack are favorites among local seafood restaurants Jacksonville FL and Jacksonville seafood spots lovers.
3. Waterfront Dining Experiences
For a truly unforgettable seafood experience in Jacksonville, Florida, head to the waterfront. These restaurants serve up delicious waterfront seafood Jacksonville FL dishes. They also offer stunning views that make your dining experience even better.
Chart House
The Chart House sits along the St. Johns River, offering a beautiful view for your Jacksonville Florida seafood dining adventure. Enjoy fresh, sustainably sourced seafood while taking in the calm river view. The Chart House is known for its high-quality ingredients and creative dishes, making it a sophisticated dining spot.
Aqua Grill
Aqua Grill has been around for 25 years, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Try their famous chilled seafood tower, with Mayport shrimp, Galveston Bay oysters, king crab, and lobster tails. The mix of the peaceful waterfront and fresh seafood makes for a memorable meal.
The Fish Company
The Fish Company is right by the river, providing a beautiful view for your waterfront seafood Jacksonville FL meal. They focus on local ingredients and creative seafood dishes. This restaurant promises to impress your taste buds while you enjoy the St. Johns River views.
“The waterfront dining experience in Jacksonville is truly unparalleled. These restaurants not only serve up delectable seafood but also provide a serene and picturesque setting that enhances the entire dining experience.”
Looking for a classic chilled seafood tower, a sophisticated seafood menu, or a relaxed waterfront vibe? These Jacksonville Florida seafood dining spots will impress you with their flavors and views.
4. Family-Friendly Seafood Spots
In Jacksonville, Florida, finding casual seafood spots for families is easy. Cape May Cafe and Crab Shack on the St. Johns are top picks. They have a relaxed vibe and menus that kids and adults love, making dining fun for everyone.
Cape May Cafe
Cape May Cafe is a favorite in Jacksonville for its family-friendly seafood. It has a cozy feel and serves up seafood classics like Crab Cakes and Lobster Rolls. They also have a kids’ menu, perfect for families looking for a great meal in Jacksonville, Florida.
Crab Shack on the St. Johns
The Crab Shack on the St. Johns is another great spot for families. It offers beautiful views of the St. Johns River. Their menu includes favorites like Crab & Shrimp Combo Baskets and Fried Cod, making it a top choice for casual seafood in Jacksonville, Florida.
5. Fine Dining Seafood Options
In Jacksonville, FL, two restaurants stand out for their upscale seafood: Ocean 60 and The Capital Grille. They offer creative seafood dishes in elegant settings. These places are perfect for those looking for a special seafood experience.
Ocean 60
Ocean 60 is in Atlantic Beach and loved by locals and visitors. It uses the freshest, local ingredients. Try the seared scallops or the pan-seared grouper for a taste of excellence.
The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille in Jacksonville offers top-notch seafood with great service. It’s known for its fresh, sustainable seafood. Enjoy dishes like lobster mac and cheese or miso-glazed salmon.
Ocean 60 and The Capital Grille are the best in Jacksonville for seafood. They’re perfect for any special occasion or just a fancy seafood meal. These places will make your dining experience unforgettable.
6. Casual Bites: Seafood Shacks and Joints
In Jacksonville, Florida, two places are top picks for seafood lovers: Crabby Jack’s and Joella’s Hot Chicken. They are perfect for both locals and visitors.
Crabby Jack’s
Crabby Jack’s is a favorite in Jacksonville’s Riverside neighborhood. It’s known for its relaxed vibe and fresh seafood. This spot is loved by both casual seafood Jacksonville Florida fans and tourists.
They serve dishes like jalapeño-crusted catch and fish and chips. It’s a place where you can enjoy the taste of the sea in a friendly setting.
Joella’s Hot Chicken
Joella’s Hot Chicken is a hit in Jacksonville, even though it’s not strictly a Jacksonville seafood spots. It’s famous for its Southern-style fried chicken. The menu has hot chicken in different spice levels and seafood options like shrimp and fish sandwiches.
These spots in Jacksonville, Florida, offer fresh seafood in a casual setting. They are great for a tasty and easy meal.
7. Unique Seafood Dishes to Try
As a seafood lover, I’m always excited to try new flavors in Jacksonville. The city’s restaurants offer a wide range of fresh, seafood dishes. From local favorites to new spots, they all showcase the best of seafood.
Specialty Dishes at Local Favorites
At Marker 32, I loved the Rosemary Grilled Octopus with crispy potato crispies. It was a perfect mix of flavors and textures. Cap’s On the Water’s sea bass succotash was another highlight, with its balance of flavors and seasonal veggies.
The spicy pimento cheese dip at North Beach Fish Camp was a unique find. It added a bold twist to my meal. These dishes show the creativity of Jacksonville’s seafood restaurants.
At Palm Valley Fish Camp, I tried their salmon BLT. It had house-made tartar sauce and pickled zucchini, making it a refreshing twist on a classic. These dishes highlight the diverse flavors in Jacksonville’s seafood restaurants.
Signature Cocktails
No seafood meal is complete without the right drink. Jacksonville’s top seafood restaurants offer signature cocktails that match their fresh, seafood. The Paloma at Marker 32 is a refreshing citrusy drink. Clark’s Fish Camp has a bold and spicy Bloody Mary.
Whether you want a classic dish or something new, Jacksonville’s seafood scene has it all. I’m excited to keep exploring the best seafood restaurants and finding more amazing seafood dishes.
8. Sustainability in Jacksonville’s Seafood
Jacksonville, Florida, is known for its fresh, local seafood. Many top restaurants focus on sustainability. They work with nearby fishermen and use eco-friendly practices. This ensures that the local seafood restaurants Jacksonville FL offer tasty dishes and care for the sea.
Supporting Local Fishermen
Safe Harbor Seafood Restaurant is at the heart of this effort. Guests see the direct link between the kitchen and the boats. This lets diners enjoy the freshness and quality of the fresh seafood Jacksonville restaurants serve.
Southern Coast Seafood also supports local fishermen. They get fish and shrimp from Mayport, ensuring freshness in every bite.
Eco-Friendly Practices
- Restaurants like Safe Harbor Seafood Restaurant and Southern Coast Seafood focus on sustainability. They use eco-friendly practices in their operations.
- They monitor their carbon footprint, reduce waste, and use energy-efficient measures. This helps minimize their environmental impact.
- By doing this, these local eateries show they care about the marine ecosystem. They provide the foundation for their culinary offerings.
Jacksonville’s seafood scene shows the city’s support for local fishermen and the environment. These restaurants lead the way. Diners can enjoy the best fresh seafood Jacksonville restaurants offer. They know their choices help create a sustainable future.
9. Events and Festivals Celebrating Seafood
Jacksonville, Florida, is a seafood lover’s dream. The city celebrates its rich maritime heritage with many events and festivals. These gatherings highlight the diversity and quality of Jacksonville seafood spots and the local community’s love for the sea.
Annual Seafood Festivals in Jacksonville
The Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament & Festival is a big deal. It’s the largest kingfish tournament in the country, drawing anglers of all levels. The NAS JAX Air Show is another highlight, featuring the Blue Angels. It’s free for everyone, making it a great event for families to enjoy Jacksonville Florida seafood dining.
Kids Free November is a special event. It lets kids under 12 get into top city attractions for free all month. This makes it easy for families to explore Jacksonville seafood spots and dive into the city’s seafood culture.
Community Initiatives and Tastings
Jacksonville also has community initiatives and tastings that celebrate its seafood heritage. The 26.2 With Donna Marathon donates all its profits to breast cancer research. The Gate River Run is the largest 15K race in the United States, running through Downtown Jacksonville.
Springing the Blues is a big event in April. It’s the largest oceanfront free Blues Festival worldwide. It combines music, art, and delicious Jacksonville Florida seafood dining for a unique experience.
These events and festivals not only showcase Jacksonville seafood spots. They also strengthen the community’s bond with its seafood-rich history. They offer unforgettable experiences and memories for both locals and visitors.
10. Conclusion: Your Seafood Journey Awaits
Starting your food journey in Jacksonville, Florida, will lead you to a lively seafood scene. You’ll find everything from Safe Harbor Seafood Market to Marker 32 and Two Dudes Seafood Restaurant. Each place offers a unique taste experience.
Make sure to try local favorites like Mayport shrimp and She-Crab soup. Also, don’t miss out on crab dishes. Pair your seafood with Southern sides like hush puppies and creamy grits for a full experience.
Looking for a fancy waterfront dinner or a relaxed seafood spot? Jacksonville has it all. Keep an eye out for special dishes like jalapeño crusted fish. For the best view, dine by the St. Johns River or Atlantic Ocean. Your seafood adventure in Jacksonville is waiting – enjoy every bite!