4070 Herschel Street, Riverside. 904-389-5631
It's all American-cuisine at Harpoon Louie's, known for their excellent burgers, Fresh Catch Salad and view of Fishweir Creek. The service tends to vary widely, sometimes excellent and sometimes not so excellent. It's the view, the food and the pitchers of beer that brings people back. (Try the Student Loan Special-a basket of wings and a pitcher of beer.)
Harpoon Louie's is the definition of a neighborhood tavern. Calling themselves "An American Pub" the people of the Riverside/Avondale community consider it the local restaurant. Located on Fishweir Creek, Harp's has a patio deck with a waterfront view. While you enjoy your dinner, you might see an egret, a turtle, or even a wandering alligator.
Chef David Witt (the chef that designed the original Henrietta's menu) took over the neighborhood stalwart with Henrietta's partner Justin Watkins. They kept the burgers-and-seafood-type of menu that made the place a classic, but upgraded the menu to include better burgers and southern entrees.
Between traditional Southern dishes and the occasional live bluegrass and folk and the patio, this is the other face of the Riverside local scene. Unlike the young punks closer to Five Points and the old money in Avondale and Ortega, these are the true Riversiders. Beer & wine, but mostly beer. Open every day. $$
1436 Beach Blvd. Jacksonville Beach. 904 249-SUBS
Ask Jax Beach dwellers for a "best of" as far as food's concerned and Angie's is always mentioned. Their Peruvian Sub is a fast favorite. Every sandwich, salad and special is fast, large and super-yummy. Try their famed sweet tea or knock back a cold one with your meal. Beer & wine. Open Mon-Sat. $$
3031 Monument Rd. Arlington. 904-998-9918
You might feel as though you're eating on your own back porch at this neighborhood eatery. The Pantinakis family serves American-style cuisine with a few Greek selections on the menu. Try their non-traditional twist on Pastitsio (a layered meat pasta and bread dish), with a tomato cream sauce. Beer & wine. Open Mon- Sat. $$
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1401 Atlantic Boulevard, Neptune Beach, inside the Days Inn 904-249-2777
This Cliff's is a bit more upscale than the location on Monument Road. Ahi tuna is a common enough dish these days, but Chef Nguyen's presentation makes it special. The pickled ginger slaw served with it is an outstanding counter-taste to the other flavors. Drinkers will like the reasonably priced basket of homemade chips, sprinkled with asiago and bleu cheese. If you're into rich appetizers, try the scrumptious baked goat's cheese served in tomato fondue with decidedly crispy slices of bread. Full bar. Open Mon-Sat. $$
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319 23rd Ave. S. JAX BEACH 904 270-0356 & 83202 A1A N. Ponte Vedra 904 273-5446.
Cruise here for a burger, taco, cheddar fries, onion rings and even some country fried steak. This is one of those classic burger joints that the whole family can enjoy. Beer & wine. Open Mon- Sun. $
21 locations around Jacksonville
There's nothing like a Firehouse Sub. Instead of using a microwave to heat their meats, they use a steamer, which infuses it with moisture and really makes the flavor vibrant, unlike most of what you'll experience at most chain sub shops. It's a family owned franchise that got its start right here in Jacksonville. The founders of Firehouse Subs come from a firefighting background and, as they say on their website "[our] family has decades of service on the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department." Favorite subs include the "Hook and Ladder" Smoked Turkey Breast and Virginia Honey Ham smothered with Monterey Jack and served "Fully Involved." Open every day. $
1013 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach. 904-246-6024
Try the tasty So-Cal Soft Tacos, with your choice of refried beans, beef, chicken, fish or shrimp. The Mayport Shrimp tacos are especially good, served with a side of salsa and sour cream. The fried banana peppers are one of the more unusual and popular side items on the menu. Lightly dusted with a breading, you can still see the yellow of the pepper showing through. It's a tart choice that's just a little off the bar food beaten path. Beer& Wine. Open from Noon- 2 am every day, kitchen closes 11 pm or later. Beer, wine & sake. $$
9545 San Jose Blvd. Mandarin. 904 880-2291
It's a market and a culinary café, offering made with fresh ingredients. Try their BBQ duck wonton, pesto alfredo tuna panini or Brentwood pot roast sandwich. Diners can choose to eat indoors, outdoors or simply use their take-out service. Open Mon-Fri. $$
11 locations all over Jacksonville
Just a few months after opening the restaurant in '81, people were calling their pizza the best in the city and flocking to The Loop in droves. But The Loop was selling more than just food, it was selling a concept: fast food served in a higher ascetic. The Loop did it before it was trendy. Long before those little luxury salads became available at McDonalds, there were gourmet salads on their menus and they upped the fast food ante by using fresh ingredients and real plates. Try one their thick shakes or their signature tomato bisque soup. Beer & wine. $
3105 Beach Blvd. St. Nicholas. 904-398-4326, 1301 Monument Rd. Arlington. 904-722-0008
The menu at Mudville Grille promises bar food, in all its fried glory. On the appetizer menu, amidst classics like Buffalo chicken fingers, Mudville's red chile poppers are a standout. But bar food isn't all you'll find on the menu at Mudville. Live it up with fresh seafood--oysters steamed or raw, peel and eat shrimp or crab legs. Dinner selections, which are served with a salad and your choice of French fries or baked potatoes, include a monster 16 oz NY strip, a butterfly shrimp platter or a marinated chicken breast. Full bar. $$
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1023 Park Street, Riverside. 904-598-5271
If you're looking for a place to spend some time, then Ragland's is the place. Actually, there are quite a few places in Five Points who would love for you to hang out for awhile, but Ragland's has all the key ingredients: the beers, the lounge, the food and the art. Their dining room walls are dedicated to canvas and their food is dedicated to flavor. As was previously reported in this issue, Ragland's features "food without a map," which means fusion dishes prepared with perfect taste in mind. Beer & wine. Mon-Sun. $$
4409 Roosevelt Blvd. Westside. 904 387-3311
Known for their Reubens and burgers, this family owned establishment also has a full bar. Drop by on Tuesdays for Trivia Night, Wednesdays for Poker & Ladies Night, Thursdays for Kid's Night and Saturdays for Karaoke Night. Live music every Friday. Full Bar. Open Mon-Sat. $$
1607 University Blvd W. Mandarin. 904-732-7200 & 155 Beach Blvd. 904-249-6636
Mojo Barbeque is "A Southern Blues Kitchen." A center for barbeque and down-home Southern cooking, Mojo's has been in business for over two years. As owner Todd Lineberry says, "The food speaks for itself."
A scrumptious assortment of appetizers are available, like the Mojo's famous fried onion rings, chili cheese fries, pulled pork quesadillas, Mississippi catfish fingers and fried chicken strips to name a few.The kitchen at Mojo's sprinkles all of their fresh salads with their delicious and unique homemade jalapeño cornbread croutons. Salads can be topped with fried or barbequed chicken, Texas chili, pulled pork, beef brisket or smoked turkey breast.
When selecting sides, be sure to order the smoked yellow corn, which is richly smoked and full of flavor. Mojo's also knows how to mash potatoes in a creamy, yet lumpy, delightful mess, with or without gravy. Two classically southern sides for the choosing are the collard greens and black-eyed peas.
Center cut pork chops, buttermilk fried chicken and a hand-cut ribeye are a few of the down-home choices for the Southern platters. Try the chicken-fried steak topped with creamy gravy for a true Southern experience. Or you can enjoy the chipotle barbeque chicken, as I did. The chicken, topped with a sweetly distinctive chipotle, cheddar jack cheese and smoked bacon, wins top marks from my taste buds. If you're looking for something a little different, go for the Delta catfish platter, fried or blackened. Barbeque platters come in two sizes, small and large, but even the "small" portion is a pretty substantial amount. Open every day. Full bar or beer & wine. $$
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4701 Shirley Ave. Westside. 904-387-3900
Known for their Memphis Style Dry Rub Ribs and basket of tableside sauces, these guys are a Jacksonville BBQ secret worth discovering. $
4907 Beach Blvd 904-398-4248 and various other locales
They first fired up their pit in the late forties on Beach Boulevard in Jax Beach. Although there are many Bono's throughout Jacksonville, natives prefer the original restaurant, called Lou Bono's. There's nothing automated about the Bono's barbeque process, pit bosses literally stand over an open pit and tend to their meat. $$
850 S Lane Ave. 904-783-9579
They've been at their original Lane Avenue locale for over 10 years, serving up some of the best beef brisket in town and luring customers every time the wind wafts the smell of that slow cooked meat over Lane. Cross Creek has three locations (one in Mandarin, the other on Lem Turner) but the local favorite is the original Westside locale. Full bar. Open every day. $$$
830 N Pearl St. Downtown. 904-353-6388 plus 2 other locations
If you haven't been to Jenkins Quality Barbeque, you are missing out on a Jacksonville tradition. Jenkins has a place where you can sit down, but they're most known for their take-home chicken in a bag. They sell them by half or whole, slather them in the Jenkins mustard based sauce and stick them in a bag with several slices of bread. It looks terrible, but tastes great. Jacksonville natives also love their finely minced slaw and they also buy the Jenkins Sauce for their home barbeques. $$
5097 University Blvd W 904-737-3383 and many other locations
Out of Gainesville Florida in 1968, in only nine years the owners decided to franchise, and by 1991, the original Sonny had sold out to Bob and Jeff Yarmuth. Sonny felt comfortable selling to the duo, since they had successfully run some Orlando franchises before buying the whole kit and caboodle. With over 150 restaurants, Sonny's has become one of the largest restaurant chains in the nation. $$
8129 Point Meadows Way (904) 493-742, various other locales
Both Sticky Fingers and Sonny's use Southern Pride Smokers, an automated smoker that keeps the temperature and humidity at optimum levels for the meat. While we are a fan of open pit barbeque, we have to admit that for a franchise, automated smokers ensure a consistency and quality that otherwise wouldn't be assured. We love the sauce at Sticky Fingers. They sell bottles of it at their restaurants, so if you find a flavor you like, you can take it home to spice up your own barbeque flavored meals. $$$
4291 Roosevelt Blvd 904-384-3442 and many other locations
Founded in 1980, Woody's is a relatively young Jacksonville chain, when compared to the venerable Bono's. Woody's is still owned and operated by the original owner, Woody Mills. They've stayed true to their concept and recipes, while including new selections like their low-carb Bar-B-Q Wrap. $$
3580 St. Johns Ave. Avondale. 904 387-2669
This Riverside diner is an Avondale landmark. In addition to having the best quick breakfast in town, they serve it up hot and made from scratch in a funky retro diner circa 1950s. It isn't schtick, it's been around since then, but these days it's the cleanest diner in the historic district. From their fried green tomatoes drizzled with a horseradish sauce to their world-famous corned beef hash, The Fox is the place for everyone from the early rising businessman to the hungover twenty-something.
Try their theme omelets, such as the white with veggies or the spicy "Ortega," its all delicious and their wheat toast is delish. Get breakfast all day (they are open until 2:30 most days) or get a Coyote Burger topped with an egg for breakfast. It's family run, with excellent service. Open 7am-2:30 pm everyday. $$
501 Atlantic blvd. Atlantic Beach. 904 249-6500
Southern comfort food, beach style! Eat some soul satisfying meatloaf or nibble on some freshly grilled fish or seafood. Breakfast is served all day, made-to-order. Open 6 am- 2:30 pm daily. $
1281 S. 3rd St. Jacksonville Beach. 904-249-3516
Wondering where to catch breakfast at the beach? Look no further than the Beach Hut, which serves breakfast all day. Try their Complete Country meal which includes two eggs, two hot cakes and your choice of home fries, grits or cheese grits, plus coffee or tea. If you're an early riser come in from 6 am -8 am Monday through Friday, for a substantial breakfast for only $2.99. Folks also eat their casual lunches, noshing on their club sandwiches, fish fillets, burgers and lunch specials (such as their all-you-can eat spaghetti). Open 6 am- 2:30 pm every day. $
2708 Park St. Riverside. 904-381-4242
If you've got a hankering for a breakfast with incredible flavor try the HELLO bagel or the three egg spicy sausage. Breakfasters with a sweet tooth can nosh on their fluffy pancakes (excellent with added blueberries), French toast or their eggs benedict. Each sandwich in the Cool Moose arsenal comes with a side. If you enjoy sweet potatoes don't miss the sweet potato fries. For dessert, Cool Moose has a cookie that legends are built upon--which is why the legend is printed on a sidebar of the menu. Beer & Champagne. Open Tue- Sun. $$
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10230 Atlantic Blvd. Southside. 904-725-2712
Home of the homestyle meal, Grinder's has been part of the Jacksonville food scene for 20 years. Each soup is homemade, and the sandwiches are made from fresh ingredients. It's a great breakfast stop. Open 6 am- 9 pm Mon- Sat; 8 am- 3 pm Sun. $
834 Kingslay Ave. Orange Park. 904 215-1956
Famous for their Eggs Benedict, Grumpy's serves up straight-forward diner fare, including omelets, deli-style sandwiches and Southern-style sides. The waitstaff is never grumpy here, always making sure beverages are full and the customers are satisfied. Open 5:30 am- 2 pm, 7 days a week. $
3302 Hendricks Ave. San Marco. 904-398-3701
Local diners just tend to gain a little more panache when they're in a swanky neighborhood. Such is the case with the Metro Diner, with their made to order omelets and 10 inch pancakes. Dine in or take out. Open 7:30 am- 2:30 pm daily. $$
1076 Hendricks Ave. San Marco. 904-396-0528
This lunchtime eatery has been part of the competitive San Marco dining scene for some 20 years. The food is simple, fresh and good, with favorites like potato salad and sandwiches on the menu. Catering available. Open Mon- Fri. $$
11362 San Jose Blvd. Mandarin. 904-292-3345
Have a simple little chicken salad sandwich on a croissant, while sipping on gourmet tea or coffee. They offer all kinds of drink combinations and have quite selection of sweet confections. Open Tues-Sun. $$
2 Independent Dr. Downtown, The Landing. 904- 674- 6714
The Landing's newest sit-down restaurant brings a little Cajun flavor Downtown, in a melting pot of culinary traditions, pulling from Native American, Spanish, French, German, Scottish and West Indies preparations. Full bar. $$$
4310 Southside Blvd. Southside. 904 998- 4414
While they might be a chain, this is the only Copeland's to be found in the state of Florida. They serve Cajun cuisine with their own creative twist and they have a full bar. They serve a Sunday brunch that you might want to catch, if you want something a little different from the usual Sunday fare. Copeland's offers French toast with a chocolate sauce and Cajun takes on eggs. At dinner you can go home with leftovers if you order their 22 ounce bone rib-eye. Full Bar. Open Mon- Sun. $$$
4495 Roosevelt Blvd. Westside. 904-387-0304 and a Beaches location
Try their spicy, savory and buttery Jambalaya, with rice or pasta mixed in with shrimp chicken and smoked sausage. Another house favorite is the chicken Baton Rouge. Full bar. Open Mon- Sun. $$$
207 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach. 241-7877
With their own micro-brewery and food with an 'Orleans flair, this is one of the most popular eateries on Atlantic Beach. It's a big place with cozy booths and lots of levels, giving it a sense of intimacy. Expect live music on the weekends and some fiery Cajun food. Try New Orleans favorites like jambalaya, red beans & rice and blackened fish. They've got a decent coconut shrimp appetizer and if you've got a taste for Asian style cuisine, try the delish seared tuna appetizer. Come for the beer, stay for the food. Full Bar. Open everyday. $$$
3644 St. John's Street. Avondale. 904-389-1131
West Inn Cantina firmly bases their cooking in the Southwestern tradition, throws in some California flash, a dash of the Caribbean and a little Indian spice. Raspberry glazed salmon, an Angus Certified Margarita steak, honey lime chicken and West Indian barbeque shrimp are just four of the selections might beckon you on the house specials portion of the menu.
Try the Five Treasure Chicken for an intriguing and scrumptious study in fusion. Served with a pepper cream sauce that flawlessly blends spices of India and the West, the chicken is coated with crushed tortilla shells and bread crumbs. The portion of chicken cutlets is very generous. Fortunately, the Five Treasure Chicken makes for tasty leftovers. Full Bar. $$
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8120 Atlantic Blvd. Regency. 904-727-5050
Fajitas and Margaritas are the signature items at Campeche, but people also rave about their rice and beans. For something a little different with a Mexican flair, try the crab enchiladas. Folks from the area love to drink at their bar, even after the kitchen's closed. Their fried ice cream is the best in town. Full Bar. Open everyday. $$
1537 Margaret Street. 5-Points. 904-355-4434
One thing that makes the Mossfire a little different than most Southwestern style eateries is the fish selections. Besides the regular fish menu choices, they also offer a fish special which changes regularly. Specials in many restaurants aren't always that special, but at the Mossfire, their special preparations are known to be exceptionally good, so don't be afraid to venture off the regular menu. Full Bar. Open Mon- Sat. $$
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4132 Atlantic Blvd. St. Nicholas. 904-398-7980
It's more than just a landmark, it's a time honored Jacksonville tradition of more than 60 years. Their classic four-piece chicken dinner, biscuits, gravy, slaw, cream peas, gravy and fries are legendary Southern fried foods here in Jax. Open Tue-Sun. $
8560 Beach Blvd. Southside. 904-353-0002
Loads of Southern cooked vegetables, cooked until they yield some delicious "pot lickers." Classic country fried steak and other Southern fried favorites can be found on the menu. For dessert, have a slice of homemade apple pie. All their pies and cakes are homemade. Open everyday. $$
556 Kingsley Ave. Orange Park. 904-278-0089
For breakfast or lunch in Orange Park, try Pengree's. Weekly specials include Meatloaf Mondays, Wednesday's Country Fried Steak and Friday's Chicken Pot Pie. Breakfast is served till 11 am Monday through Friday, till noon on Saturday and till 2 pm on Sundays. Eggs, pancakes and French Toast are the stars of their breakfast menu. Open 7 am- 2 pm every day. $$
St. Johns Ave. Riverside. 904-555-1212
If you're searching for the newest dining hotspot in Jacksonville, take a ride to Avondale and sit down to a terrific meal at the Preservation Tap & Chop House. Owner Drew Cavins says, "I wanted it to be a neighborhood place with an elegant ambiance…I wanted to create what a restaurant in the 1930s in Jacksonville might be like."
Although every aspect of their menu has moments worth celebrating, the entrees are definitely the stars of the show. Whether you want to keep it fairly inexpensive with their Cherry Chicken with Goat Cheese for less than twenty dollars, or try the porterhouse for more than thirty, you will never feel as though it wasn't worth the price. Carnivores will adore the Prime Rib Panini. This sandwich is smothered with Swiss cheese and comes with an au jus dipping sauce and any of their Southern sides.
All of the sides seem to be earning praise, and I am positively in love with the collard green au gratin! Some of the more unusual and contemporary salads include the turkey tandoori and Lobster Cobb salads. I took pleasure in the fluffy bib lettuce of the warm brie, pecan and pear salad, which was served with a sweet-but-tart rosemary honey vinaigrette. Full bar. $$$
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9753 Deer Lake Ct. Southside. 904-996-8822
Adjacent to Tinseltown, this restaurant has steak and much, much more. At lunch, try their chicken salad, mixed with nuts, sweetened with honey and served stuffed into a tomato. Open every day. $$$
1510 Riverplace Blvd. Southbank. 904-399-3933
It's all dark woods and an ambiance that would make ol' blue eyes proud. The walls are filled with nostalgic photos of old movies stars and celebrities. Choose your aged beef from a tableside cart and live it up, steak-style. Full Bar. Open every day. $$$$
9300 Baymeadows Rd. inside the Marriot. Baymeadows. 904 739-6633
This steakhouse began in 1917 in the Midwest, as a restaurant supplier of corn-fed beef. They now mail beef around the world to private citizens, but they also have seven of their high-end restaurants across the country. Check out the personalized wall of knives that they keep for their repeat customers. Full Bar. Open every day. $$$$
Hyatt Regency Hotel. Downtown. 904-598-0234
The original Plaza III is in Kansas City, a place where a good steak is a prerequisite for almost any restaurant. It isn't a chain though; it's locally owned and operated, though it's affiliated with its namesake. Beef is corn-fed, carefully selected and then aged for three weeks. Wine drinkers will find a selection of over 200 wines. Open 11:30 am- 10 pm Mon- Thu; 4:30 pm- aa pm Fri-Sat; 4:30 pm- 10 pm Sun. Full Bar. $$$$
1201 Riverplace Blvd. 904-396-6200
While it might be commercially owned, this steakhouse is worth a mention because it's where businessmen take their high-end clients. They pride themselves on fun with class, but it's the class that people go back for. They season the steak with very little, letting the true flavor of the aged beef show through. If you're not up for steak, go for the lobster, it's nothing less than delicious. Full Bar. Open every day. $$$$
11362 San Jose Blvd Ste 1. Mandarin. 904 262-0006 & 725 Atlantic Blvd. Atlantic Beach. 904 241-5600
The inside of this classic Jacksonville Steakhouse will remind you of an upscale men's club (in the Mandarin locale), but the menu is diverse and the ambiance is romantic enough that it's a favorite for Mother's Day and Valentine's Day. The steak, of course, is excellent, but so is the salmon. Full Bar. Open every day. $$$$
3820 Southside Blvd. Southside. 904-646-1478
A blue bamboo is an American with deep Asian roots. Owner Dennis Chan, native to Jacksonville, is no stranger to the restaurant business. In the past six decades, his family has owned twelve Chinese restaurants in the Jacksonville area. After graduating from Hyde Park's Culinary Institute of America, Chan worked with the Food Network's Ming Tsai on the program "East Meets West."
The whimsically named fried dragon whiskers are narrow strips or "whiskers" of zucchini fried in sesame flour and served with a side sauce of garlic chive ranch. If ever there was a way to get your kid to eat her veggies-the dragon whiskers are it! Blue Bamboo doesn't skimp on the crab. Instead of looking for the blue crab amidst too many bread crumbs, I found myself happily looking for the breadcrumbs. Beautifully presented, this Street Eat is drizzled with sarachi oil (a lightly spicy Asian sauce), Asain chili sauce and a lemon grass sauce.
Choosing an entrée was a difficult task; my attention caught by the variety of choices. Peanut lime chicken, ahi tuna and coconut shrimp are three of the scrumptious choices offered under salads. Under noodle dishes I passed up the pad thai and curry with regret, knowing from the Street Eats that they would certainly be tasty. I nearly settled on the miso marinated salmon, but once I saw that Cantonese orange duck was offered- I couldn't resist, and I wasn't disappointed. The crispy duck comes in a sweet orange sauce with a side of sticky jasmine rice and a small spring salad topped with balsamic vinaigrette.
The dessert selections come under the heading of "Happy Endings." Open everyday for lunch and then after 5 pm. $$$
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1060 San Jose Blvd. Mandarin. 904-286-1668
They call it a Chinese restaurant, but the addition of Genghis Khan to the name should clue you in that it's a bit Mongolian as well. They've even got a handy posted guide if you aren't sure how to spice or sauce your raw meat/vegetable selection depending on your flavor preferences. Your selections are then cooked up by the chef on a flat, hot grill. Upon your return, your choice of rice or noodles will be ready to add to your Mongolian creation. Beer & wine. Open Tue-Sun. $$
11362 San Jose Blvd. Mandarin. 904 288-7999
Although there is a little fusion on the menu, Jade Bistro mostly makes upscale Chinese dishes. In appetizers you might want to try the lettuce wraps; crisp iceberg lettuce is brought to your table along with a flavorful filling of chicken or shrimp. Entrées they're known for include Thai-style Chilean Sea-bass. Beer & wine. Open every day. $$
2 Independent Drive. Downtown, The Landing. 904-665-0123
Mongolia's right next to China, isn't it? Well, it's close enough for Mongo's Mongolian style buffet to end up in the Chinese section. Down at the Landing, you can find this fun restaurant. There's a good view of the river and the skyline. Best of all, they've got a full bar to go with the grill. Not a surprise, since everything at the Landing, including the t-shirt shops, eventually seems to get a full liquor bar. Choose your raw meats, veggies and spices, and then watch the chef cook it up on the grill. Just $14.95 all you can eat (without a drink). Full Bar. $$
8617 Baymeadows Rd. Baymeadows. 904-731-0880
For a sit down Chinese lunch that's fast enough for Baymeadows workers to get back before their lunch hour ends but still nice enough to make diners feel relaxed, Pagoda is the choice. Try the shrimp fried rice, and even if you've got to order it a day ahead of time, the Peking Duck. Open Mon-Sat. $$
5032 Blanding Blvd. Westside. 904-778-8500
Known to natives as some of the best Chinese in town, this sit down, non-buffet style restaurant has captured the hearts and stomachs of many Jacksonvillians. The staff is accommodating and if you don't see something on the menu, just ask your waitress. Lo mein is one of the favorites here. Try the chicken lo mein or order their house lo mein, which includes chicken, beef and shrimp. Portions are more than reasonable and the prices are too. Open Mon- Sun. $$
9802 Baymeadows Rd. Southside. 904-620-0777
The cuisine at India's Restaurant comes from the northwestern region of Punjab, which straddles India and Pakistan. The regional cuisine is based on the use of creams and, of course, curries. The rice at India's Restaurant is Basmati rice, which comes exclusively from India (attempts to grow it in the states have resulted in an inferior rice).
Fragrant as only Basmati rice can be, the cook delicately spices and flavors it with ghee butter. Such rice is surely served in heaven. The lunch special, at about $6, attracts quite a few business people from the surrounding Baymeadows area. Beer & wine. Open every day. $$
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9825-6 San Jose Blvd. Mandarin. 904-262-9577
This menu runs the gamut of Indian cuisine, including the Southern region. They serve outstanding tandoori chicken. Try their massive lamb dosa, which is over a foot in length. Everyone in that area of San Jose Boulevard knows about the lunch buffet, and they keep it in mind for lunch hour, when they get tired of barbecue and fast food. Beer & wine. Open Mon- Sun. $$
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9041 Southside Boulevard. Southside. 904-519-0098
Known for their superb naan bread, Taj is considered quite a find for those who venture into the restaurant, tucked away in one of Southside's anonymous strip malls. From the menu try their "Indian Dinner for Two" a full five-course meal including big bowls of mulligatawny soup, a collection of appetizers, and two meat dishes of your choice, accompanied by a thick veggie curry, pullao rice, their famous naan, and gulab jamun for dessert. Besides their lunch buffet, they also serve up a tasty dinner buffet in the evenings. Open every day. Beer & wine. $$
8661 Baymeadows Rd 904- 566-6707
One of the newest and most hip Indian restaurants on the Jacksonville scene, Red Chilies not only serves regional Indian fare, they also dish up Indo-Chinese entrées such as Chicken Manchurian. Select something from their Biryani menu for a savory Middle Eastern/Indian treat. Southern Indian dishes such as their methuvada (a deep fried lentil cake) and their North Indian curries round out their menu. Full Bar. Tues- Sun. $$
2025 Riverside Ave. 5- Points, Riverside. 904 384-2888
One of the most visually interesting things to ever grace a plate is sushi. For form and variety, you just can't beat a good-looking plate (or boat) of sushi. Presentation is half the fun at Sushi Café. The quickly classic, beloved Jax 5-Points sushi stop is a local favorite for a reason-quality sushi served fresh.
Also served at the sushi bar is sashimi, a chilled slice of raw fish available at most sushi bars but not considered sushi because it is served without rice. Generally though, sushi rice is the base around which sushi is built, so it's important to get the right consistency and stickiness. The rice at Sushi Café is sticky without being dry with the appropriate amount of vinegar.
If you are a sushi aficionado then you will enjoy the nigiri sushi at Sushi Café, which is a slice of raw fish atop a small block of sushi rice, generally with a small dab of wasabi in between. The maguro, or tuna, is a deep pink, uniform in color and tender, as it should be. In all sushi preparations here I found that the avocado was as exquisitely fresh as the white fish, salmon and tuna I enjoyed on the rainbow roll.
Those that don't want to try sushi or aren't in the mood for it can find plenty of selections on the menu. Try a tempting tempura battered appetizer or full fledged meal. Choose from shrimp, chicken or vegetable. Hibachi items, teriyaki chicken or steak and katsu are some of the items available. The chicken hibachi was remarkably tender. Lobster, filet mignon, steak and scallop preparations are all on the menu.
From the stickiness of the rice to the freshness of the ingredients Sushi Café has my endorsement as some of the best sushi in town. Beer, Wine & Sake. Open every day. $$
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104 Bartram Oaks Walk. Julington Creek. 904-230-7466
Blue Fin's décor doesn't stick to the usual sushi house formula, mostly abandoning Japanese touches in favor of a more contemporary, trendy look. Most nights, you'll find owner George Le toiling away behind the sushi bar, deftly shaping the rolls and sculpting the rice. He knows sushi well, but also has a background in pasta and French cuisine. Because of this, and his Vietnamese heritage, garlic is one of his favorite ingredients. That, along with the standard soy sauce, serves as the basis for many of his savory sauces. Full Bar. $$$
1227 S. 3rd St. Jacksonville Beach. 904-241-8455
A darkened Japanese steakhouse and sushi bar not far from Jax Beach, their hibaci chefs put on quite a show. The sushi bar is long (almost 30 feet) and they offer more than 50 selections.
Full Bar. Open every day. $$$$
4320 Deerwood Lake Pkwy, #202. Southside. 904-998-9797
"Sushi so hot, the wasabi gets nervous." is the slogan at Crazy Sushi. The specialty is sushi, but they serve other Japanese dishes in a casual atmosphere. Try the crab rangoon for a non-sushi appetizer alternative. Beer & wine. Open every day. $$
237 San Marco Avenue St. Augustine. 904-823-1444
For sushi and a fusion blend of Far Eastern dishes, head to Fusion Point, the best established sushi joint in St. Augustine. Chef Tai specializes in interesting new blends of flavors and textures that have made his restaurant well respected in the area. Voted the Best Ethnic Restaurant in the St. Augustine Record for several years by the locals, it's located just north of the Florida School for the blind. Beer, Wine & Sake. Open for dinner from 5 pm-10 pm daily.
2 Independent Drive. The Landing, Downtown. 904 350-9911 & 9866 Baymeadows Rd # 8, Baymeadows. 904 350-9911
Those looking for a Japanese meal experience ought to know that there is a strong Korean influence as far as other dishes besides sushi are concerned. The Spicy Pork box, which is described as "sliced pork in sweet & spicy sauce" is more like a Korean curry than what you'd normally expect at a Japanese restaurant. Locals know to ask for the excellent kimchee, a traditional Korean dish of fermented veggies. Full bar. Open every day. $$$
824 Lomax St. 5- Points. 904 301-1188
Artistic interpretations of Japanese scenes grace the walls of this 5- Points sushi house. Both Sake House and Tokyo Bay have these murals, painted by the same artist. At Sake House, you'll be able to spot them right away, but the more formal Tokyo Bay has them on a back wall. There are 10 specialty rolls to choose from on their sushi menu and 8 more on their regular menu. Beer, Wine & sake. Open every day. $$
1950 San Marco Blvd. San Marco. 904 399-3305
Neon in the midst of San Marco marks this sushi place. The décor and feeling is Urban Japanese, with a hint of futurism and a dash of nostalgia. Sit at the bar and watch them craft your meal. Beer, wine & sake. Open every day. $$
106 1st St. Neptune Beach. 904-241-0099
Hakaru "Tama" Tamaki was formally trained in Japan as a Sushi Chef. Tama moved to Jacksonville in 1981, becoming the first Sushi Chef in the area. It has been his life-long dream to have his own restaurant. Now he makes some of Jacksonville's best sushi right across the street from the ocean in Neptune Beach. $$
1173 Edgewood Ave. S. Murray Hill. 904-389-8424
Murray Hill got a little swankier, with the addition of Aurathai. Try their delicious, traditionally prepared thom yum soup or Kaeng Kiew Wan (also known as green curry). If you've eaten at Taste of Thai on University, Aurathai is the more upscale version. Justin Sellas, son of the owners of Taste of Thai, decided to open his own place with his own stamp on things. He named the restaurant to honor his mother his mother Aurathai Sellas.
A colorfully chic décor gives Aurathai a modern, fun and classy feel. A deep orange verging on red covers the walls. The highly saturated color is broken up by custom-made white paper and stainless steel wall lights, as well as bamboo paneling and occasional olive green accents. In the very back of the restaurant you'll find a large black and white picture of a Thai woman in a traditional headdress, over the well appointed wine bar.
At the opening I devoured most of the appetizers Aurathai has to offer. The spring rolls were perfectly conceived and executed, but it was the sweet chili sauce served on the side that had the crowd begging for more. The same sauce took a starring role in the thang qua, a sliced cucumber salad garnished with ground peanuts. One appetizer that was snapped up quickly was the chicken satay skewers. The incredible peanut sauce was responsible for the run on those.
I nearly ordered my Kaeng Daeng (red curry) Thai hot. Instead, I opted for hot, one step below, and that was plenty spicy, even for me. They're very accommodating as far as making your dish at whatever level of spice you'd like, from mild on up. Only Thai food can bring that mixture of slow heat and fast burn that I crave. In the taste department, Aurathai has made the top of my Thai list.
Beer, wine & sake. Open every day. $$
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9846 Old Baymeadows Rd, Baymeadows. 904-645-9911
An upscale L.A. urban feel is the back-drop for tasty Ameri-Thai-fare at this Baymeadows area restaurant. With a lime green décor and a small-but-chic bar, it's also a stop for a casual dinner. Try their Pad Thai and Crab Rangoon. Beer, wine & sake. Open Mon-Sat. $$$
4317 University Blvd. Southside. 904-737-9009
There's a homey, family feel to this Thai restaurant, mostly because it is a family owned and operated business. Service is always friendly and they have a full selection of vegetarian items. The green chicken curry choice comes highly recommended. Regulars are a big part of the scene at Taste of Thai and owner Aurathai often takes the time to greet them. Beer & wine. Open Mon-Sat. $$
1974 San Marco Blvd.San Marco. 904-338-0269
For Thai food in an uber-posh atmosphere, try Pom's in San Marco. This pricey, white table-clothed Thai eatery often serves chicken satay and Thai spring rolls to the pre-theater crowd. Located just off San Marco's square above Square One, you can enjoy traditional Thai fare as well as fusion twists on old dishes. Try their seafood dishes or see if you can stand the heat of one of their spicier dishes; but be forewarned, unless you're a true aficionado of Thai-spice, you might be sweating at your well-appointed table. Full Bar. $$$$
1716 3rd Street North, Jacksonville Beach. 904-247-7763
A soothing décor of greys, burgundies and pinks makes this a romantic twist on Thai. As the sister restaurant of Pom's you can expect the same level of excellent service and well-chosen wine list. Try their signature seafood special of shrimp, mussels, scallops, squid and crab claws with sweet basil and Thai spice. Beer, wine & sake Dinner Only. Open every day. $$$
9551 Baymeadows Rd. Baymeadows. 904-646-9506
Jacksonville diners who crave authentic Thai often eat at Pattaya Thai, which has a devoted following. The chicken coconut soup is one of the menu items regulars go back for. It's been part of the Jacksonville dining scene since before Thai was cool, albeit in a different location than where they first started. Beer, wine & sake. Open Mon- Sat. $$$
1177 Park Ave Orange Park. 904-541-0204
This place specializes in the old classic Pad Thai, and locals often order the Cantonese-style fish, which is lauded as pretty close to the genuine deal. Prices are reasonable and the made-to-order lunch special is just $5.95. Beer & wine. Open Mon- Sat. $$
10 Blanding Blvd. Ste. Orange Park. 904-272-8434
Serving up traditional Thai whole snapper, pork satay and the usual Thai curries, this restaurant fills the Orange Park area's need for Thai heat in a casual atmosphere. Beer & wine. Open Mon- Fri. $$
1286 S. 3rd St Jacksonville Beach. 904-249-8444
The same folks that own Lemongrass also own this Jax Beach gem. They specialize in fine Thai cuisine including crispy duck, Thai-style snapper and chicken satay. A large menu means you'll always find something you're in the mood for. Wine lovers will find over 200 wine selections on their menu. Beer, wine & sake. Open Mon-Sat. $$$
57 Comares Ave. St. Augustine. 904-829-8646
While this place has a Caribbean/Floribbean flavor to many of their dishes, it can't exactly be called traditional Caribbean. Although more expensive than most Caribbean restaurants, it is well worth it. You can enjoy your Minorcan Burger in a private cabana on the water or have the Carribbean Chicken Pasta in their air-conditioned dining room. They also make great cocktails, not tourist grifters, but stiff drinks in their bar out on the dock. From live alligators to jet ski rentals, this must be the coolest restaurant in North Florida. Open every day. Full bar. $$$
3801 N Main Street Springfield. 904- 798-8500
This Springfield taste of the Caribbean is worth the drive, even if you don't live in Springfield. Word of mouth has spread quickly about this hole-in-thewall- esque place, so you might find yourself dining with some of the folks who report the local nightly news. Try their brown stew chicken (another name for jerk chicken) and their beef stew, which simmers for hours. Open Mon-Sat. $
4770 Barnes Road Southside. 904-737-6789
That they serve jerk everything here shouldn't be a surprise, but they also serve turkey with a brown gravy that might be. They're Caribbean with a touch of soul food. Open Mon-Sat. $
100 First Street, Neptune Beach. 904-270-8940
The island-inspired food at Caribbee Key has become an important part of the Neptune Beach culture. While Caribbee Key is more inspired by island flavors and flair than slavishly devoted to genuine Caribbean food, it's still not to be missed. You can sit outside and enjoy the sunlight and an ocean breeze, or you can go to their upstairs bar where they keep the windows open. The jerk Chicken is definitely of a Jamaican flavor and can be had fried or grilled. The creamy roasted corn and crab chowder will be a treat for those who love island chowder. It's not very spicy, but it is very savory. Full bar. Open every day. $
4106 N Main St. Springfield. 904-355-0405
For more than 10 years, Caribbean Sunrise Bakery has been serving Jacksonville with a taste of the sun-kissed islands. They play reggae and sell freshly baked Jamaican-style breads. Try a meat patty or their tender oxtail, or if you're adventurous, there's ackee, which they only serve on Saturdays and Sundays during breakfast. Meals are well-priced and you can opt for half or whole portions. Open every day. $
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116 East Adams Street Downtown. 904-359-2100
Right next to London Bridge on Adams, you can find Caribbean Sunspot. With a teeny dining area painted in Rastafarian colors, you can kick back and sip on some fruit nectar while noshing on their veggie plate or jerk chicken. Open Mon- Fri. $
128 West Adams Street. Downtown. 904-633-9738
The jerk chicken here at Da Real Ting really is the real thing. It's the best jerk chicken we've found in Jacksonville. For some bar bites that can't be beat, try their conch fritters, served with a spicy sauce. Full bar. Open Fri-Sun nights. $
1 Ocean Blvd. Atlantic Beach. 904-249-7402
This high-end restaurant runs the culinary gamut, but it's rooted in Floribbean flavor. Try the pan seared crab cakes with a Key Lime mustard mayo or any of the fish dishes. With a lovely view of the Atlantic and a fusion ingrained with Island flavor, it's one of the top restaurants on the beach. Open every day and late on Friday. They also have a spectacular Sunday brunch. Full bar. Open every day. $$$
1319 Rogero Rd. Arlington. 904-744-0660
Sip a little Irish Moss at this Caribbean restaurant while you eat a little pepper steak or snack on their delish jerk ribs. You can find all of the standard Caribbean favorites like jerk chicken and Escovitch fish. Open Mon- Sat. $$
Riverside, Southside, Beaches, and San Marco
European Street Café might just be Jacksonville's undisputed king of soups, salads and sandwiches, perhaps because it's been around for so long. Older locals remember when the place was called Mr. Dunderbak's Deli.
There are certain items that bring people back, such as the Beer-Cheese Soup served in a bread bowl, which is a favorite among local soup lovers. Locals who frequent a European Street (they are generally fiercely devoted to one location) also come back for the 2-6 pm Happy Hour. The sheer quantity and selection of beers available gives even the pickiest beer drinker enough choices. There are hundreds of beers from all over the world and 20 of them are on tap. The wine selection isn't too shabby either, though it isn't nearly as extensive as beers. Serious drinkers join their drink around the world club.
European Street's casual Euro-atmosphere draws its share of customers and during the holidays they get in influx of customers who are shopping for European specialty items such as chocolate. They also sell baskets, either pre-made or empty so you can customize it yourself. They always sell closeout wines that you can place in a gift basket, use as a party gift or just take home for yourself.
German food, such as bratwurst, knockwurst and a German potato salad (served warm) are part of the selections, as are Middle Eastern Dishes like kibbie and tabouleh.
Favorites include the Blue Max, featuring smoked pastrami, corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese mixed with hot mustard and blue cheese dressing. For a twist on the club sandwich, give the Canadian Turkey Club a try.
New on the menu is the Turkey Parisian, a sandwich where you win in its struggle between sweet and savory. Turkey, brie, raspberry sauce, cucumber and lettuce all join in on a classy little croissant.
Under salads, the neighborhood choice is the shrimp salad bowl and in appetizers it's the warm brie, served with almonds, apple slices and French bread.
Don't miss the deli case on your way out. The desserts and cakes here are very, very good and they offer such strange cakes as the banana split, as well as gigantic, fresh-baked cookies.
Whatever you go for, make sure you visit a European Street Café at least once, it's a Jacksonville tradition. Beer, lots of Beer & wine. Open every day. $
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204 Broad St. Downtown. 904-354-5702
This Downtown deli is an institution that's been family owned and operated since 1923. Try anything from the deli case, order yourself a made-to-order sandwich or indulge in one of their baked sweets, like a black and white cookie. Open Mon- Sat. $
1510 King St. Riverside. 904-389-0355
A little slice of New York is right on the corner of King and Park Street in the historic Whiteway corner of Riverside. When you first step in, the pictures of all of their customers may throw you off, but don't worry, you'll get your turn when you get to the counter. They have some of the best sandwiches, especially the ones stuffed into pitas. Get one of their side salads to complement it; you've never had a better potato salad. $
1521 Riverside Ave. Riverside. 904-354-5080
The restaurant is named for "the row," which is what the row of luxurious mansions lining Riverside Avenue was called in the early part of the last century. It captures the 1900 flavor of Riverside beautifully, with rich maroon walls, white table cloth settings and fresh flowers.
The Row is, without a doubt, one of the best places in Jacksonville to go for a romantic meal. On a nice day you can sit on the spacious porch in the front, or you can eat more casually on the deck in the back. The two main dining areas, bisected by the hotel lobby, are classically Riverside, with cushy chairs, beautiful place settings and window vistas of the neighborhood and the trees.
Perhaps the pinnacle of The Row's entrées is their signature Chicken Marsala. It's not the standard thin, rough-pounded chicken, but is instead served as a roasted de-boned chicken stuffed with a stunningly flavorful spinach, goat cheese and pecans, topped with an excellent marsala sauce, mushrooms and capers. I haven't found a tastier chicken dish her in Jacksonville. Those with a taste for tender venison should try the charbroiled venison tenderloin. It's complemented nicely by a wholly agreeable juniper-balsamic reduction, roasted potatoes and fresh asparagus. The Row does as well in the fish category as they do in all others. I highly recommend the pesto-crusted salmon with parmesan sour cream sauce, for a richly creamy yet slightly tart salmon experience. The sunburst squash served on the side were a lightly sweet, delicious pairing for this dish.
Reservations are recommended, but you can always take a seat at the classy Gum Bunch Pub. Besides a decent wine list and good selection of beers, they've got a full bar for those who like the stronger stuff. Full bar. Open Tue-Sat.
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333 N. Laura St. Downtown. 904-366-6911
An unexpected shot of sweet is the signature of Café Nola. It can be shock for those who are strictly meat and potatoes or that don't like to experiment. Nola starts their patron's experience with a muffin shaped roll and creamy butter. Each day, they mix the butter with a seasonal fruit, like blueberries or raspberries. The Indian style mussels are a great favorite, if you're fond of mussels. The flavor of the mussels gracefully prevails over the light-handed curry flavor, and the portion is fairly large. Also notable on the small plates section of the menu are the Truffled Risotto Fritters, which are off set by a sweet, caramelized black pepper shallot marmalade.
There are a number of tempting selections under salads. The Salmon rests atop a bed of soba noodles, spiced with a chili-lemongrass vinaigrette and garnish with pan-Asian touches. Keeping company with the herb-crusted snapper are vegetables and quinoa. The asparagus goat cheese salad does start with the traditional base of a spring salad mix, but jumps off from that quite nicely, adding in grilled asparagus, creamy goat cheese, blueberries and toasted Georgia pecans.
At Café Nola, they do what they can to make sandwiches sexy. Try the citrus dill tuna sandwich if you want to take an ordinary tuna salad sandwich to a whole new level of yum. The Shrimp & Grits feature cheesy grits sculpted into wedges (called grit cakes) and smothered in a savory white wine sauce with fresh wild mushrooms and bacon. Add Mayport Shrimp to this and you've got a nearly perfect meal. What makes it perfect is the addition of a sun-dried tomato crostini. The crusty bread and tart sun-dried tomato topping provides a faultless contrast in taste to the rich and savory dish. Full Bar. Open Mon - Fri and featuring a Sunday brunch. $$
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1019 Hendricks Ave, San Marco 904-306-0100
For diverse, stylish American food in a mod-bistro atmosphere, minus the pretension, b.b.'s in San Marco is a Jacksonville favorite. They've reportedly got a bisque soup that will have you wanting to lick the bowl clean. Under each entrée, one of their by-the-glass wines is suggested as a pairing. Desserts are large, so plan to share! Last we heard, they don't accept reservations, but you can give them a call an hour before you arrive, give them a specific time and they will put your name on their call-ahead list. Beer & wine. $$$
3556 St. Johns Avenue, Avondale. 904-387-2060
Although bb's and Biscotti's are under the same ownership, Biscotti's came first. Years ago, Biscotti's began as a hip coffeehouse in Avondale, the fancy part of Riverside. Brick walls and curved archways give the place a more traditional feel than its sister restaurant. They're known for their desserts, so check out their pastry case and make sure you save room. Beer & wine. Open every day. $$$
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1440 San Marco Blvd Jacksonville (904) 398-1949
French-style bistro fare at its finest with an eclectic flare, Bistro Aix has a reputation for upscale cuisine, but there are some tasty options on the menu for under $20 and they have half portions available on many of the selections, something you might be grateful for, if you like to have a little taste of everything! For dessert try their classic crème brûlée. $$$
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3585 St. Johns Ave. Avondale. 904-387-0606
The seating style at the Brick encourages diners to look out at the picturesque, oak lined street at people who walk in Avondale, whether it be a man walking a massive Dalmatian or a woman pushing a double stroller of twins. As an added bonus, the outdoor area of the Brick has misters, keeping diners cool in the heat of the summer. Lunch diners often opt for their popular Cuban Panini, while at dinner they chose to feast on the maple-glazed salmon entrée. Full Bar. Open Mon-Sun. $$$
691 North First Street, Jacksonville Beach. 904-270-0025
A beachfront, on-site hotel and a staff dedicated to detail are just a few of the plusses. To sample their cuisine just head to the restaurant, where The Casa Marina's imaginative Chefs design and serve "New Beach Cuisine" daily, highlighting the best of local seafood, produce and specialty ingredients with an international flair for flavor and style. $$$
1501 Riverplace Blvd. Jacksonville. 904-398-3353
Not a Jacksonville-based chain, Chart House is known for fine dining on the richest seafood. From the Crab Avocado Mango Stack from their raw bar menu to the Macadamia Crusted Mahi Mahi, they are a top-shelf contender for scoring date points and their Southbank location provides a nice nautical view of the St. Johns as it winds through Downtown. Full bar. $$$$
117 W. Adams St. Downtown. 904 355-3793
Putty greens, clean lines and industrial/urban warmth (yes, there is such a thing) mark the décor, with oh-so New York white paper lights, green tiled pillars and frosted glass. Serving reasonably priced, beautifully presented soups, salads and other breakfast and lunchtime favorites. Patrons come back for their fried green tomato BLT and their incredible croquet-Madame, topped with a fried egg. Salad offerings include the signature Chew salad with shitake mushrooms, the apple and goat cheese salad, fresh citrus salad, fennel and spinach salad, black mission prosciutto and classic Caesar. Each salad on the menu is paired with its own dressing, made to complement its salad. Beer & wine. Open Mon- Fri. $$$
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108 Julington Plaza Dr. Julington Creek. 904-230-6744 & 13475 Atlantic Blvd. Intracostal West. 904-220-7844
For an upscale, yet comfortably casual American dining experience, try Cobblestones. Shrimp, crab stuffed mushrooms, and their chicken de Francesco are just a few of the things that will tempt you. Signature dishes include their Vidalia Onion Soup and Cobblestones Signature Fusion Filet-a 9 ounce triple trimmed filet, broiled with Roma tomatoes and mushrooms. A temperature controlled wine cellar of over 1,000 bottles is something they take pride in. Full Bar. Open Mon- Sun. $$$
60 Hypolita street. St. Augustine. 904 829-0055
It's been called "daring coastal cuisine" and "artful global dining. It occupies the space that used to be La Parisienne Restaurant. Collage opened this year, and it's made a splash in St. Augustine's culinary scene. A wide ranging wine list and a Mediterranean setting completes the Collage picture. While there's still a heavy French influence, they're more like American with a global flair. Beer & wine. Open 5 pm daily. $$$$
1430 San Marco Blvd. San Marco 904 396-1414
Bistro dining with a casual elegance, it's a quieter place to go for fine dining in San Marco. The style is very French, and there is a French influence to the cuisine, but they liberally borrow from flavors around the world. The menu rotates, relying on fresh, local ingredients where possible. Beer & wine. Open Mon-Sat. $$$
3630 Park Street. Avondale. 904-381-0909
High-art French food has become the signature of this former wine bar. The appetizer with the loveliest presentation on their current dinner menu seems to be the Tarte de Fromage Chevre, a layered tart of roasted beets and goat cheese atop mixed greens highlighted with a citrus vinaigrette. Also sitting pretty on the plate-their Roti de Canard, a slow roasted duck breast, truffled carrot puree, grilled endive, duck gelee, with a beurre rouge sauce. Beer & wine, lots of wine. Open Mon- Sat. $$$$
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1527 Penman Road, Jacksonville Beach. 904-241-4496
Cozy and high end, the romantic Dwight's is one of those gems tucked away in an anonymous strip mall. People go back for the handmade ravioli and the award winning crab cakes. It's a Mediterranean/French-style bistro with an eclectic twist. Beer & wine. Open for dinner Tues- Sat. $$$$
7693 Gate Pkwy. Southside. 904-996-7557 & 330 A1A North #209. Ponte Vedra. 904 273-7980
In French-style bistros it's often difficult striking the balance between portion size and quality, but JJ's manages it beautifully. Specials rotate regularly and you'll find French classic on the menu. Beer & wine. Open Mon-Sat. $$$
60 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach. 247-0060
One of the bistro's trademark dishes is a whole fried fish, dusted in a light cornmeal, perfectly scored (so you can lift the fish right off the bone), and served with yucca fries, a Napa cabbage salad and a brandy citrus dipping sauce. If you want to peruse the art on the walls as well as on the plate, make sure you request a table on the martini bar side, where they have a rotating gallery. Full Bar. Open Mon- Sat. $$$$
39 Cordova St. St. Augustine. 904 824-0402
Each night, the five-course tasting menu changes, so you'll always have the chance to try something new at this cutting-edge, yet elegant bistro. It's a contemporary Spanish cuisine that borrows flavors from around the globe. They're no slouch in the wine department either, and have won awards from Wine Spectator Magazine. They also have a retail wine shop on-site, if you should want to take home some exclusive vino. Reservations are required. Beer & wine. Open Tues- Sat. $$$$
216 11th Ave. S. Jacksonville Beach. 904-241-1112
At Eleven South, they say that "good food has an address"-theirs. It's modern American cuisine served with a Mediterranean flair, though they pull inspiration from around the world for their menu, which often changes. One appetizer that does stay on the menu is their seafood martini, ahi tuna tartar, lump crab, poached white shrimp, avocado,
mango salsa, crostini and citrus aioli, all presented in a martini glass. Seafood, steak and various other upscale items round out their menu. Full Bar. Open Sun- Sat. $$$$
94551 St. John's Ave. Avondale. 904-387-0700
The white table cloths, the sterling silverware and the fine food, makes this a great spot for an upscale meal. They serve veal, lamb, chicken and a fresh catch of the night on their menu. Upstairs is a great little bar, and the courtyard makes for a romantic spot to dine. It's much quieter than some of the other fine restaurants in town, so you won't have to shout to your dinner companions over your fine meal. Sundays they serve brunch with mimosas and bloody marys, as in customary here in Jacksonville. Just have one, or pay a little extra to upgrade to bottomless drinks. Full bar. Open every day. $$$$
967 Atlantic Blvd. Atlantic Beach. 904-249-9595
If you're lucky you might see one of the four Culhane sisters, who run the pub. These delightful ladies hail from county Cork out of Ireland. If you speak to Michelle, Aine, Mary Jane or Lynda-you'll know it because that musical Irish lilt is unmistakable. Culhane's is our pick for hearty Irish fare, from their potato leek soup to their shepherd's pie. Desserts are just as good as the main fare. Carolan's fried cheese cake, covered in Irish crème sauce is a definite winner. The 24 carrot cake is a truly massive slab of carrot cake with a rich cream cheese icing and honest-to-goodness whipped cream. Full Bar. Open 11:30 am- till the last customer leaves Tue- Fri; 11 am- close Sat- Sun; closed Mon; kitchen closes at 9 pm most nights, on weekends they continue to serve a limited menu. $$
333 1st Street North, Suite 150. Jacksonville Beach. 904- 242-9499
From the front door to the back room, Fionn MacCools is everything you expect from an upscale Irish pub. Besides typical pub fare and a lovely Guinness Steak, they serve the rare Irish specialty of Boxty, a traditional Northwest Irish meal, which is a potato pancake as light as a crêpe wrapped around a meat filling in a rich cream sauce. Full Bar. Open Mon- Sat with a Saturday brunch. $$
111 Bartram Oaks Walk. Julington Creek. 904-230-9670
Literally the greenest Irish pub in town, Shannon's location near Mandarin makes it both a draw for families and a local hangout for twenty to forty year olds looking for a neighborhood chill zone. Their menu includes standard pub food but they also offer up American style bar foods and an array of sandwiches and salads. Order the scotch eggs and you won't be disappointed. You get two huge scotch eggs the size of small cannon balls. The boiled eggs are encased in Shannon's bangers sausage and deliciously fried breading. Full Bar. Open Mon- Sun. $$
2023 Park Ave, Orange Park, 904-269-1331
In spite of having one of the best locations for a restaurant in Orange Park (at the corner of Park and Kingsley) Sarnelli's Ristorante still seems like a secret. The façade isn't impressive, but when you step inside, you step straight into an authentic slice of Northern Italy. From their Flounder Caprese to the traditional lasagna, this is very possibly the best Italian experience you can find in Florida. But make a reservation if you expect to be served. Beer and an exceptional wine list. Hours: Mon-Sat. $$$$
2111 University Blvd. N. Arlington. 904-745-4812
With dark wood paneling, Sinatra crooning, black accents and red tablecloths, Angelo's isn't short on classy retro-style atmosphere. The food is uncomplicated Americanized Italian. I lovingly consumed the artfully presented chicken piccata. The moist juices of the tender chicken breast were sealed in by an egg batter (Français style) served atop a bed of zucchini and green peppers with a flavorful lemon and chicken stock reduction laced with capers. Full bar. Open every day for lunch and dinner. $$$
6943 Saint Augustine Rd. Mandarin. 904-636-9196
This is a true Italian bistro. A quaint little restaurant perfect for an intimate dinner, Sorrento is located in a snug little building tucked away from the limelight on St. Augustine Rd. Known by foodies as one of the best kept secrets of Italian dining in Jacksonville, Chef Luciano Russo meticulously prepares delicious traditional fare and the service is always extraordinary. Step out of the trendy restaurant scene and into this quiet little treasure. Excellent wine list and select beers. Open Tues - Sun. $$$$
13475 Atlantic Blvd. Intracoastal. 904-221-7066
Zaitoon cuisine delves deeply into the Mediterranean, borrowing from each tradition in the area-Spanish, French, Italian, Greek and Middle Eastern. The Mediterranean is such an intriguing mélange of cultures and cuisines, so Zaitoon has plenty to choose from. They blend tried-and-true family recipes with contemporary techniques.
The appetizers, called "tapas" in the Spanish tradition, are divided into items that are served cold or hot. On the warmed or hot side, you'll find spanakopita, a Greek dish of butter brushed phyllo pastries baked and filled with spinach, sweet onion and feta. There's also flash fried calamari and the ever popular Middle Eastern favorite of kibbie. Under the cold tapas there are a number of spreads for breads, including a signature dipping sauce. In this section I'd have to recommend the layered hummus here over their plain hummus. Fresh tomato, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olive, spinach and feta cheese top this layered hummus dish.
Skewerless kebabs form the bulk of the lunch menu, including tasty lamb, beef and savory chicken. The best choice is a combo kebab of two different kinds of meat. At dinner try Zaitoon's Spanish Paella, with local shrimp, mussels, clams, calamari, and chicken sautéed in a white wine then baked over a chorizo and oven dried tomato risotto. You might want to sample their classically Greek Moussaka, a napoleon of eggplant, potato, ground sirloin, lamb and tomato with a Bechamel, or white sauce. Chicken lovers will find it hard to resist the description of their Sicilian Chicken, grilled and served with dried chilies, potato, bell peppers, tomato, olives, capers, and red wine amid basmati rice. Beer & wine. Open every day. $$$
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21 East Adams Street, Downtown. 904-598-2922
Burrito Gallery has the chops to put some fine art on the walls and some damn fine tacos on your plate. They consistently feature the best and brightest young artists from the Jacksonville area, both on the canvas and on the actual wall. If you go to a place called Burrito Gallery, you might want to order a burrito. Go ahead. But be warned. Burritos come in two sizes here, ginormous and gargantuan.
They serve great food made fast. It's fresh of course, and much, much better in quality than the majority of quickly prepared meals, deli-style and otherwise. Vegetarians who haven't yet discovered this place should come in for the ginger teriyaki tofu burrito and the grilled veggie. The tacos are a smaller choice, but just as tasty. Try the fresh mahi, carnitas (pork), curry chicken or the shrimp.
Under salads the Cobb is a most excellent choice. The spring mix is topped with bleu cheese, egg, grilled scallions, tomatoes and bacon with a tasty sherry tarragon vinaigrette served on the side. It comes with grilled chicken, but you can sub that with steak or shrimp. Full Bar. Mon-Sat. $$
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8011 Merrill Road. Arlington. 904- 744-1380
Their Juanito Burrito weighs in at over a pound, with your choice of fillings. They're also known for their Drunk Chicken (made with Tequila and orange juice) and their Pollo Abuelita (Grandmother's Chicken) which sits atop crispy white tortilla chips, in a white cheese sauce with onions and olive oil. Beer & wine. Open Tue-Sat. $$
4 locations in Jacksonville and Orange Park
When it comes to Mexican, Jacksonville dearly loves their La Nopaleras. They have fiercely loyal regulars, who know the servers by name, who eat there sometimes twice a week. The food is simple and lightly spiced. If you want more kick to your food, ask for extra hot sauce or salsa when you order. The ground beef tacos, lightly spiced, are extra tasty, and the fluffy tortillas are perfectly genuine. Ask for the pork tacos, and you won't be disappointed. Full bar. $$
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11380 Beach Blvd. Downtown 904-564-9977
Known as one of the best Mexican buffets in Jacksonville, El Porto serves up fast, simple Tex-Mex comfort foods for the whole family. The buffet is open from 11 am- 2:30 pm and 5 pm- 8:30 pm, seven days a week. Open 11 am-10 am Mon-Sat; 11 am -9 pm Sun. CALL AGAIN, Not Good English. $$
2578 Atlantic Blvd. Saint Nicolas. 904-399-0609
The restaurant is unique in Jacksonville; while we have many Hispanic restaurants that serve the occasional Cuban dish, Havana- Jax is the only one that specializes in purely Cuban cuisine. If you're looking to come in for lunch, the Cuban sandwich is the most genuine Cuban you can find in Jacksonville. Cuban arroz con pollo is the standout choice for dinner. Full bar. $$$
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440 Hendricks Ave. Miramar Plaza. 904-739-5828
They've got a good selection of Mexican beers such as Dos Equis, Tecate, and Corona to quench your thirst after eating salsa and tortilla chips. Homemade tortillas, crisp lettuce, succulent tomatoes, tender, juicy meats, and savory spices are just part of what you'll find at Jamadores. All of their dinners are served with rice and beans and you can have your choice of beef, chicken, pork, or seafood. Full bar. Open Mon- Sun. $$
2 Independent Dr. Downtown, The Landing. 904-598-2696 and in 5 Points
Chips, salsa and the usual Mex-mix of food. 2-for-1 margaritas from 3 pm to close on weekdays, barring a special event. Open Mon- Sun. $$
2045 Blanding Blvd. Lakeshore. 904-388-5888
The line between Caribbean and Latin gets blurred at this family-owned restaurant on the Westside. The charming servers speak terrific English and are great at helping customers navigate their menu. If you love plaintains, they have some of the best in town. Their Dominican fried chicken is also exceptionally good, but look out for bones, these aren't McNuggets, they're Latino Americano delicacies. Some other notable dishes include their roasted pork, the soups, and their Cuban sandwich. Make sure to try the hot sauce and instead of a soda, get their delicious Parcha, a passion fruit juice. Every day. $$
1237 Park Ave. Orange Park. 904-278-9040
Everybody thinks of this family owned restaurant as primarily Mexican. While they do have their share of fajitas and Mexican style dishes, you might want to venture into some of the Cuban cuisine the family cooks here, like their roast pork and the ropa vieja (a shredded beef dish). You can dine indoors or outdoors, enjoying their selection of beer, wine and spirits. Full Bar. Open Mon- Sun. $$
528 First St. North, Jax Beach 246-1580
It's Brazilian Steakhouse that features, meat, meat and more meat, with over 14 cuts of meat carved before your very eyes. In fact, it's kind of like a buffet, except that you just sit there and they continue to bring you more premium slices of meat. Drinks and desserts are separate from the $29 all-the-meat-you-can-eat price. $$$
3628 Saint Johns Ave. Avondale. 904-981-9966
The Casbah is on my list of late night bites, since they serve food until 2AM. Inside you'll find lacquered tables embossed with the Eye of Horus and on those tables: live Peruvian Lilies. If you're unsure of what you'll like, the Old City Sampler on the lunch menu or the Casbah Combo at dinner will give you a sampling of some of the more popular appetizers.
At the Casbah, the stuffed Grape leaves, also known as a dolma, are stuffed with spiced ground beef and rice. The leaves themselves are a little tart, so they have a bit of a savory tang to them. Falafel, in the Middle East, can come in a variety of guises and the Casbah has the most common variant, a deep fried garbanzo bean patty mixed with parsley, sesame seeds and spices. My favorite appetizer will always be the fried kibbie, a deep fried football-shaped snack stuffed with beef, onions and pine nuts. Both the falafel and the kibbie are great with the fresh and creamy tahini sauce. The standard dipping spread for pita is fresh hummus, made largely by puréeing garbanzo beans (also known as chick peas) and topping it with olive oil and spices. I sampled the fool, which is made in the same manner, only with fava beans, resulting in a thicker, heartier pita dip. If you've tried hummus before and want to try something a little different, go for the fool. Beer & wine. Open every day. $$
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1705 Hendricks Ave. San Marco. 904-398-4425
Somehow invisible to most people, Gino's is not hidden, it's right next to the San Marco La Nopalera. Gino's easily makes the best New York style pizza in town. The intimate little restaurant has great décor and makes enormous, hand-tossed pizzas with traditional ingredients and some of the best sauce in town, bar none. If you've never had a pizza that made you close your eyes while you chew it, you've never been to New York or Gino's. Limited bottled beers and wine. Open every day. $$
4160 Southside Blvd. Southside. 904-565-1999
This small, innocuous pizza place, buried in a strip mall along Southside Boulevard, was an unusual treat. Historically, the best pizza places are never those glitzy towering standalone joints with recognizable name brands, but rather small parlors tucked away almost invisibly in a strip of shops. As an appetizer, we had one of Tommy's specialties; the unusual but astounding Strawberry and Tomato Salsa Foccacia. The Margherita pizza is a delicious thin-crust pizza with an olive oil sauce (replacing the traditional pizza sauce), topped with real mozzarella cheese, fresh sliced roma tomatoes, and fresh basil. Bottled beers and wine. $$
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Locations in Mandarin, Bartram Park, and 9A at Baymeadows. 904-288-9211
You can always get a fairly quick slice of Brooklyn-style pizza at any of their locations and their pizza is pretty close to the real thing. Their gigantic, hand-tossed pizzas have good sauce and the full array of traditional toppings. They are also reminiscent of New York through their small storefront pizzerias where you can see the pizza baker yelling right back at the order clerk. The best thing about Brooklyn Pizza is that a New York slice is never far away because of their three convenient locations around town. Limited bottled beer selection. Open Mon-Sat at most locations. $$
9734 Deer Lake Ct. Tinseltown. 904-997-1955 and 1800 Towne Center Pkwy. Fleming Island. 904-541-1999
This trippy pizza restaurant is known for more than just the 60s schtick and their stoned 'shroom mascot, they also have some of the tastiest crust in town. They use spring water to make their crust and they toss their dough right in their open kitchen. Often mistaken for a chain, Mellow Mushroom is a locally owned franchise. Featuring a full dining room and fun décor, this is a place to take the whole family when you want to sit down and take your time. Full bar. Open every day. $$$
1176 Edgewood Ave S. Murray Hill. 904-389-4442
Although not a traditional pie, their white pizza is the best in the business. Not many people remember Rock and Roll Pizza downtown, but those that do can go to Moon River to fulfill that craving. They have exotic toppings, original local art, and a rock and roll theme to their delivery. This is easily the best non-traditional pizza in town, and it's in Murray Hill. Who would'a guessed? Beer & wine. $$$$
2032 County Road 220, Orange Park, 904-269-4198
This may just be the best thing about Orange Park. From their sweet potato fries to their Snow Crab dinners, Whitey's is an institution. Some people feel that since they expanded they lost a little of their charm, but as a once Fleming Island local told us, their food used to be sketchy, whereas now it is fantastic. The view of Black Creek ain't bad either, and there's plenty of great live entertainment every weekend. Full bar. Open every day. $$
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160 Nix Boatyard Rd. St. Augustine 904-829-6113
It's pure North Florida fare at this classic St. Augustine dining destination. The place is a kind of upscale fish camp, located in an old, whitewashed Southern-style house, complete with a white picket fence and a rose garden. They serve the Low Country cuisine the area is known for, with special emphasis on plank cooking. Baking fish, chicken and steak on a 1" thick oak plank which seals in the juices, the technique conveys an understated wood flavor to the meat. Creekside also offers a wide assortment of fresh local seafood, distinctive appetizers and desserts. Full Bar. Open from 5 pm, daily.
120 3rd Street South. Jacksonville Beach. 904-241-4880
It's a seafood market with a restaurant attached. Expect the freshest seafood baskets along with standard favorites like burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open every day. $$
950 Sawgrass Village Dr. Ponte Vedra Beach. 904-285-3017
Seafood is their specialty, but they also serve steaks and "eclectic American cuisine." Although they have a rotating menu that changes nightly, they always feature American dishes with an Asian twist. Full bar. $$$
14 Castillo Dr. St. Augustine. 904-824-3663
This St. Augustine institution is famous for their seafood chowders and wide array of shrimp. Treat some out-of-town friends to some gator tail with Datl Do-It Hot Sauce made from real St. Augustine datil peppers. Their downtown location is open everyday from 11 am and their St. Augustine Beaches location is open everyday from 4:30 pm for dinner. $$
2321 Beach Blvd. Jacksonville Beach, 904-241-9771
From clams and oysters to fish entrees with an Asian twist, including Cashew Crumb Swai (a snapper dish) and Salmon Hiro, Billy's Boat House is perched right on the water and often features live music on their patio while you dig into some fresh caught fish and a cold beverage. $$
4325 Myrtle Street, St. Augustine. 904-824-8794
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in St. Augustine, Cap's started as a fish camp but has since become more upscale, with white tablecloths and a wine list. For a less formal experience than the dining room has to offer, you can sit out on the deck, at the bar, or on their floating dock. They've recently added their "Sunset Oyster Bar" to their deck, raw, steamed and a variety of baked oysters are served, as well as Dungeness crab, mussels and Mayport shrimp. Full bar. Open every day. $$$
12903 Hood Landing Rd, 904-268-3474
Clark's has everything from escargot to rattlesnake on their menu. Their famous Fish Camp Platter is plenty to fill you up while enjoying their scenic fish camp/hunting lodge facilities, but beyond seafood they also have wild animals such as kangaroo and ostrich. Whether you want down-home classics such as fried catfish with a dessert of key lime pie or something truly wild, Clark's has it. $$
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8968 103rd Street, Westside. 904-908-8355 and a location in Yukon
J.L. Trent's is homegrown kitsch. A glance around any of their restaurants reveals their tacky-but-cool sense of fun. If you're game, try the gator tail. They marinate it before deep-frying it, so it's very tender. The sides here are served up Southern-style, with a bit of bacon for flavor. Collard greens and black-eyed peas are the favored sides. The dinner portion for their grill-flavored salmon is a huge 12-ounces. Salads are also quite substantial for their price, and come with a variety of different toppings such as blackened chicken, jumbo shrimp, Buffalo chicken, Mahi, tuna steak or grouper. Beer & wine. $$
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252 Yacht Club Drive, St. Augustine, 904-824-2111
From their horseradish crusted grouper to their fisherman's stew, this place is authentically a seafood restaurant. You'll find oysters, shrimp, calamari, and crab cakes on their menu too. In addition to their seafood, they also feature live entertainment every Wednesday through Sunday night.
8155 County Road 13 N, St Augustine, 904-522-0500
This place is quickly becoming Jacksonville's new favorite fish camp. Although it has been there since 1975, people in Jacksonville seem to have discovered it only in the last year or two, but it has quickly been a place known for being worth the drive. They call the restaurant a cypress shack, they have music, and they are laid back (no shoes no shirt, no problem). Obviously their specialty is soft shell crab, but they also have everything from oysters to alligator.
4100 Coastal Highway, Vilano Beach, 904-824-8008
Called "casual oceanfront dining" their food meets a much higher standard than most casual dining joints. Their prime rib is reportedly the best in the St. Augustine area and their seafood (like the Thai Chili Snapper) is known to be delicious, fresh and innovative. The prices are a little steep (dinner entrées average about $22) but worth it for a delightful meal right on the ocean. Each table has a fine view and full-moon dining is recommended.
4378 Ocean Street, Mayport, 904-246-4911
This shop is first and foremost one of the best fresh fish markets in Jacksonville. Featuring a constantly changing array of the freshest fish to come off of the boats that dock right next to it, Safe Harbor can give you the raw materials for a fantastic dish, or their experts can prepare the fish you pick out right there in their kitchen, and either way it is likely to be among the best seafood you've had.
299 Dondanville Rd. St. Augustine Beach, 904-471-2332
When you get a little south of St. Augustine Beach you foray into an older Florida that is clashing up against the condos of the new Florida like a storm surge. Saltwater Cowboys is a part of that old Florida. Their "Florida Cracker" combo comes with gator, frog legs, and "cooter." I'm not sure what cooter is, but the Oysters Dondanville sound scrumptious.
9716 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, 904-251-2449
Near the ferry crossing on the Heckscher side of the river is a shanty little place on the dock, perched cozily on the water. You'll find delicious peel 'n eat shrimp and all of your favorite fish entrees fried to a crispy golden brown.
218 1st Street, Neptune Beach, 904-246-088
This Neptune Beach favorite is the perfect place to slip away from the beach for a cold beer and some delicious oysters. Their raw oysters are known for being the best, but even if you like them cooked, they have plenty of styles to tickle your fancy. Not an oyster lover? They've got something to appease you too, while the rest of your party sucks down some sliders.
4728 Ocean Street, Mayport, 904-246-4442
Many swear that this is the best fish camp in Florida, although Frommer's only awarded it two stars. Their shrimp Po Boy is supposed to be the things dreams are made of, for people who just can't get enough fried shrimp and fish in their messy sandwiches.
25 Cuna St. St Augustine. 904 810-2400
Try the Chef's Daily Flight, for a trifecta of beauty and taste. Many of the ingredients that are part of the tapas selections at the Tasting Room are exclusively made in Spain, like the Manchego cheese and the Serrano ham. Those who haven't had grilled romaine lettuce simply need to try this dazzling presentation at the Tasting Room. The smoky flavor coupled with the crisp lettuce will leave you thinking about their salad for days. Ours was topped with roasted red peppers, onions, pine nuts, chives, a sherry cream sauce and scrumptious little anchovies. If you're into adventurous cuisine, you just might experience flavors at the Tasting Room that you've never had before. Beer & wine. Open 1:30 pm- 11 pm Tues- Wed; 1:30pm - 12:30 am Thu-Sat; Closed Sun & Mon. $$$$.
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108 Anastasia Boulevard Anastasia Island. 904823-3367
This chic new tapas restaurant on Anastasia island has a post-modern design, a rotating gallery of contemporary art provided by local artists, and an attached cigar and martini bar. It is a great place to meet up with friends and share appetizers while you enjoy the casual-cool elegance of their facility. Visit zhanras.com for a peek at their menu. Full Bar. $$$
2 Independent Dr. Downtown, The Landing. 904 353-8464
Standards like fried calamari and seared ahi tuna round out their tapas heavy menu. Spain, Italy, Thailand and Mexico are just three of the countries that inspire the courses on their international menu. Try the Xango's fried cheese cake or Death by Chocolate Cake if you're in the mood to indulge or just finish your meal with a chocolate martini. Full Bar, of course. $$$
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2426 S. 3rd St. Jacksonville Beach. 904 247-6606
This Jax Beach restaurant took the idea of Spanish Tapas and then presented it with New American cuisine, a fusion of a little bit of everything, from spring rolls to shrimp & grits. The menu is nicely sectioned into seafood, meat and vegetarian items. Expect to pay from $5- 12 per tapas. Full bar. Open 11 am- 2 am Mon-Sat; 11 am- 4 pm Sun. $$$
1515 Prudential Drive, next to Chart House. 904-346-0605
There's a new wine bar in town that is aptly named Tastings. Though wine is the focus, they do have a great little menu that will tickle your taste buds even if you aren't into the vino.
They'll pour you wine at the bar, but the real gimmick is the wines they have on tap. The process keeps them fresh with a vacuum seal and nitrogen. This lowers the oxygen content and helps the wine to keep as fresh as the day it was uncorked. High-end wines are not often available by the glass because wines only keep for so long after they've been corked. Good wines especially, can turn in flavor sometimes within two days, so whatever patrons don't finish that night is often used in sauces. Most restaurants can't spare the expense of offering top vino by the glass. By putting their wines on tap (which keeps them super-fresh), Tastings can offer you a taste, half-glass or full glass of the good stuff. Who wants to buy a bottle of expensive wine that you might not even like? They also have a retail store, so if you find a wine you fall in love with or might be perfect for a friend, you can take it home that day!
Wine and cheese lovers will enjoy the thorough selection of more than fifteen cheeses. I discovered their Humbolt, a goat cheese with vegetable ash, which tastes like a combination of standard goat cheese and creamy cambret
Chef Ian's favorite salad on the menu is the Anitpasto Chopped Salad of Romaine, Salami, Sopressata (slightly spicy dry-cured salami), asiago cheese and provolone tossed with an aged balsamic vinaigrette.
The most popular salad on the menu, though, is the Spicy Salmon Skewers & Baby Spinach. It's a salad that pops with flavor. Even as I write this, I'm craving another taste of that seasoned but lightly spiced salmon set apart with the lemony taste of the deliciously simple vinaigrette.
I can't resist dessert, so when I was offered a taste of their chocolate cake, I gave in to the Dark Side and had a piece (despite looming bridesmaid duty in a dress that makes me look ten pounds heavier). I didn't swoon over this cake, but the fresh fruit that came with it, the pretty presentation and the presence of chocolate earned it a solid B-. That was until they served me Rosa Regale, a sweet bubbly that launched the taste of the slice into the stratosphere. It helped me discover depths of flavor in that chocolate cake that I hadn't known before.
And that's the point really, the wine enhances the food and the food enhances the wine. Tastings just helps in the quest to eat, drink and be merry. Beer & wine. $$
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10281 Midtown Pkwy in the Town Center in Jacksonville, 904-642-7111
This is a corporate wine bar for people that have a predetermined idea about what a wine bar is. They are committed first and foremost to wine, so they do special meals that pair different courses of their cuisine with different wines and they have a wine shop attached in case you find that perfect wine. Although not as affordable as Total Wine, they do have more than 120 wines that you can taste and purchase by the bottle.
2012 San Marco Blvd in Jacksonville, 904-398-0726
The Grotto is a San Marco stalwart for wine and cheese connoisseurs. Their San Marco location makes them the perfect place to start or end an elegant evening in San Marco, and the ambience is like an authentic Italian wine grotto. Except that it is not actually in a cave. But when there you forget you're in a storefront. Select from one of their more than 50 wines by the glass or take home a bottle that is perfect for the season.
1004 Hendricks Ave in Jacksonville, 904-396-8088
The wines on their menu are categorized by region and you can find Austrian wines from $21 per bottle or a 1995 Bordeaux for $3,400. This quiet retreat is a great place for a private dinner, although the foods are a little rich, but to really get the full Simons experience you have to go on one of their live jazz nights.
1314 Prudential Dr in Jacksonville, 904-398-8989
The Southbank area seems to be where all of the wine bars get together and hangout. Wine Cellar is the oldest wine bar in the area, making it the classic wine bar for the Jacksonville area. Their continental cuisine can be paired with your choice from their enormous wine list. Put on your evening clothes and make it a formal night.
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