When I first moved to Florida, my main goal was to find the best places to eat in Jacksonville. For me, having delicious food options nearby is a must, and Jacksonville did not disappoint.
Living south of the city, midway between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, my daily commute allowed me to explore many fantastic restaurants in Jacksonville. And let me tell you, there are plenty of great spots to eat. Eating out is one of my favorite activities in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville is becoming known as a food city, with many amazing restaurants making their mark. I’ve been visiting Jacksonville for over five years and have lived here for one year. During this time, I’ve tried numerous eateries and created a list of my favorites based on the quality of food, service, location, and my personal experiences.
Here’s a starting point to guide you during your next visit:
Restaurant Orsay
This French-meets-Southern bistro always tops the list when you look for great restaurants in Jacksonville. It’s high-end and elegant, perfect for special occasions. I recommend starting with oysters or steak tartare and then trying the lobster pot pie or lamb sirloin. Located in Avondale, it also has a fantastic wine list.
Indochine Downtown
Named the “Best Thai Restaurant” locally for six years in a row, this place is a must-visit if you’re in downtown Jacksonville. They offer authentic Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine that will leave you impressed. The chicken laab, pho, pad see ew, and curries are all worth trying.
Salt Life Food Shack
Representing the “Salt Life” brand, this restaurant offers a laid-back beach vibe just three blocks from the ocean. The atmosphere is casual and the food is fresh. Don’t miss out on their Hawaiian wings, avocado fries, or poke bowl.
Cowford Chophouse
Combining steak, seafood, and rooftop views, this romantic restaurant in a historic building is perfect for date nights. Their menu features dishes like duck fat cornbread, filet Oscar, and Chilean sea bass. The decor and ambiance are equally impressive.
The Bearded Pig
A family-friendly BBQ spot with a beer garden, especially great for those with kids. Located in San Marco, it features a playground and outdoor seating. Their brisket sandwich and pulled pork platter are must-tries.
River & Post
Known for having the best view in Jacksonville, this rooftop lounge offers stunning vistas and delicious food. Their bartenders make amazing cocktails, and the burrata plate and pesto oven-bread are perfect snacks to enjoy with the view.
Taco Lu
One of the best Mexican restaurants in Jacksonville, Taco Lu serves delicious fish tacos, nachos, and enchiladas. Their impressive tequila and mezcal collection is also worth noting. Weekend brunch here is a treat.
Taverna
Located in San Marco, this Italian restaurant offers elegant and authentic dishes. Their brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour options are all fantastic. Try the burrata caprese or their house-made ravioli for a delightful meal.
Dockside Seafood Restaurant
Offering some of the freshest seafood in Jacksonville, this no-fuss spot is right on the river. The view is amazing, and you might even spot dolphins. The grilled crab cake melt and shrimp po’boy are highly recommended.
Sushi Bear
This unassuming sushi place in a strip mall serves incredibly fresh sushi and creative rolls. Favorites include the steamed shumai, Fancy Q roll, and chicken katsu.
Carmine’s Pie House
For pizza lovers, Carmine’s offers New York-style and Chicago deep-dish pizzas, calzones, and pasta. The atmosphere is fun with local art and 80s rock music.
5th Element
This Indian restaurant in Baymeadows serves bold, authentic flavors from across India. Their menu includes everything from samosas to curries, and each dish is crafted with care.
Murray Hillbilly
A top pick for vegan food, this restaurant in the Murray Hill area offers mind-blowingly good vegan/faux-meat items like the bacun cheeze biscuit and mac n’ cheeze.
Beach Hut Cafe
An affordable, no-frills option close to the beach, this diner serves great breakfast and lunch. It’s a local staple for tasty meals at great prices.
Matthew’s Restaurant
For a fine dining experience, Matthew’s in San Marco is a must-visit. Offering elegant French and Mediterranean cuisine, the service and ambiance are top-notch. Dishes like seared foie gras and beef tenderloin are highlights.
Some standout dishes in Jacksonville include the beef stroganoff at Restaurant Orsay, the Pad See Ew at Indochine, and the grilled crab cake melt at Dockside Seafood Restaurant.
To fully experience Jacksonville’s culinary delights, consider taking a food tour in neighborhoods like Avondale or San Marco. These tours offer a chance to sample dishes from several top restaurants while learning about the area’s history and culture.
If you’re wondering about the best restaurants in Jacksonville, my top picks include Restaurant Orsay, Indochine Downtown, Taverna, and Sushi Bear. Jacksonville is known for its fresh seafood and excellent food scene, making it a fantastic destination for food lovers.
I hope this guide helps you enjoy some of the best dining experiences Jacksonville has to offer. Happy eating!
