![Best Restaurants in Jacksonville, FL [Food Guide]](https://2020shift.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Best-Restaurants-in-Jacksonville-FL-Food-Guide.jpg)
When it comes to dining in Jacksonville, FL, there is no shortage of fantastic options. From hidden gems tucked away in strip malls to local icons that have become an integral part of the city’s culture, the food scene in Jacksonville continues to impress. With a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences, there is something to suit every palate in this vibrant city. Here are some of the best restaurants in Jacksonville that you should definitely check out.
Key Takeaways:
- Indulge in a variety of culinary delights in Jacksonville, FL
- Explore hidden gems and local icons for unique dining experiences
- Choose from a diverse range of cuisines to suit every palate
- Don’t miss the opportunity to try standout dishes at Mesa, Restaurant Orsay, Carolina Jax, Cowford Chophouse, Silkies Chicken and Champagne Bar, The French Pantry, and Blue Bamboo
- Plan your next dining adventure and experience the incredible restaurants in Jacksonville, FL
Mesa
Located in Jacksonville, Mesa is renowned for its top-notch Indian cuisine. The restaurant offers diners a choice between a seasonally-driven, five-course tasting menu and a la carte options. Notably, Mesa is one of the few places in the city that offers a vegetarian-friendly tasting menu, making it a standout choice for those seeking meatless options. Must-try dishes include the chicken wings on the small plate menu, which are glazed with a delightful tamarind-ginger sauce.
Seasonally-Driven Menu at Mesa
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Appetizer | Spiced Vegetable Samosa |
| Soup | Mulligatawny Soup |
| Main Course | Butter Chicken with Saffron Rice |
| Salad | Mango and Cucumber Salad with Mint Dressing |
| Dessert | Pistachio Kulfi |
If you prefer to have more variety during your meal, the a la carte menu at Mesa offers a wide range of dishes that highlight the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine. From aromatic biryanis to spicy curries, each dish is carefully crafted to deliver an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Vegetarian-Friendly Menu
Mesa caters to vegetarians with their innovative and flavorful vegetarian dishes. The vegetarian tasting menu features a selection of dishes that highlight the versatility of vegetables and plant-based ingredients. From crispy vegetable pakoras to creamy paneer tikka masala, there are plenty of options to satisfy even the most discerning vegetarian palate.
Whether you opt for the seasonally-driven menu or explore the vegetarian-friendly options, Mesa ensures that every dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients and authentic Indian spices. The combination of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and exquisite presentation makes dining at Mesa a truly memorable experience.
Restaurant Orsay
For a taste of French-inspired cuisine, look no further than Restaurant Orsay. This popular spot in Jacksonville offers a solid happy hour and a menu featuring inventive bistro classics. From pan-roasted fish with grits to mussels frites, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Additionally, Restaurant Orsay also serves up a delectable weekend brunch, featuring dishes like roasted oysters and bourbon-infused French toast.
For those looking to indulge in the flavors of French cuisine, Restaurant Orsay is a must-visit. Whether you’re craving a classic dish like Coq Au Vin or looking to try something new like Bouillabaisse, their menu has it all. The chefs at Restaurant Orsay are known for their attention to detail and their ability to elevate traditional French dishes with a modern twist.
One of the standout features of Restaurant Orsay is their happy hour. Whether you’re stopping by after work or meeting up with friends for a pre-dinner drink, their happy hour specials are sure to please. Enjoy discounted appetizers and drink specials while soaking up the charming ambiance of the restaurant.
But it doesn’t stop there. Restaurant Orsay is also well-known for its weekend brunch offerings. Start your day off right with mouthwatering dishes like Eggs Benedict or Brioche French Toast. And don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing mimosa or a specialty cocktail from their extensive drink menu.
| Highlights of Restaurant Orsay |
|---|
| French-inspired cuisine |
| Solid happy hour |
| Inventive bistro classics |
| Weekend brunch with unique offerings |
So whether you’re craving a taste of French cuisine, looking to unwind during happy hour, or seeking a delightful brunch experience, Restaurant Orsay has it all. With its charming ambiance, creative menu, and commitment to delivering the flavors of France to Jacksonville, this restaurant is sure to impress.
Carolina Jax
If you’re in the mood for burgers and fries, Carolina Jax is the place to go. From its humble beginnings as a food truck, this Jacksonville joint has gained a reputation for its inventive smash burgers and loaded fries. The menu features a variety of burger options that are sure to satisfy your cravings. One standout is the Hurricane burger, loaded with bacon, jalapenos, macaroni, and chipotle sauce, creating a delicious explosion of flavors. And for those looking for an equally indulgent hot dog, don’t miss out on the Hurricane Dog, topped with the same lavish ingredients as the Hurricane burger. Carolina Jax offers a unique twist on classic American comfort food, making it a go-to spot for burger enthusiasts.
Signature Burgers and Fries at Carolina Jax
- Hurricane burger with bacon, jalapenos, macaroni, and chipotle sauce
- Hurricane Dog topped with the same indulgent ingredients as the Hurricane burger
- Classic cheeseburger with melted American cheese
- Vegetarian burger option with a flavorful patty made from plant-based ingredients
- Loaded fries with a variety of toppings such as cheese, bacon, and jalapenos
At Carolina Jax, they take pride in creating burgers that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Each burger is carefully crafted with attention to detail, ensuring a satisfying and Instagram-worthy experience. The inventive flavors and generous toppings set Carolina Jax apart from other burger joints in Jacksonville, making it a must-visit for burger enthusiasts looking to try something new.
Cowford Chophouse
For a fine dining experience with stunning views, head to Cowford Chophouse. Located in a historic building from 1902, this steakhouse offers classic selections like tuna tartare and porterhouse steaks.
The real highlight, though, is the rooftop dining area, which offers panoramic views of the St. Johns River, Southbank, and Downtown Jacksonville. With a variety of steak and seafood options to choose from, as well as a wide selection of add-ons and sides, Cowford Chophouse allows diners to customize their perfect meal.
Silkies Chicken and Champagne Bar
Silkies Chicken and Champagne Bar is a must-visit for fans of Southern cuisine. Chef Kenny Gilbert elevates classic dishes like fried chicken and biscuits to new heights, offering a menu that is both satisfying and innovative.
Highlights include the Flavor Bomb chicken sandwich, featuring a truffle and gouda biscuit with fried chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce. The combination of the crispy chicken and the indulgent flavors of truffle and gouda creates a mouthwatering experience that will keep you coming back for more.
But it’s not just the fried chicken that shines at Silkies. The menu also boasts an array of delectable champagne cocktails that perfectly complement the Southern flavors. Sip on a refreshing Blackberry Belle cocktail, made with champagne, blackberry liqueur, and fresh mint, or indulge in a Peachy Paloma, a delightful blend of champagne, tequila, peach liqueur, and grapefruit juice. Whether you’re a champagne aficionado or a cocktail lover, Silkies has something to satisfy your cravings.
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Weekend Brunch at Silkies
If you’re visiting Silkies on the weekend, make sure to indulge in their brunch options. The brunch menu features a variety of Southern-inspired dishes that will delight your taste buds.
Start your morning with a classic combination of fried chicken and waffles, served with a drizzle of maple syrup. The crispy chicken paired with the fluffy waffles creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. For a more savory option, try the truffle smoked gouda macaroni and cheese. The creamy mac and cheese is elevated with the addition of truffle and smoked gouda, giving it a rich and indulgent twist.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring Southern cuisine in Jacksonville, don’t miss out on the mouthwatering flavors and unique culinary experience that Silkies Chicken and Champagne Bar has to offer.
| Menu Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Flavor Bomb Chicken Sandwich | Truffle and gouda biscuit with fried chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce |
| Blackberry Belle | Champagne cocktail with blackberry liqueur and fresh mint |
| Peachy Paloma | Champagne cocktail with tequila, peach liqueur, and grapefruit juice |
| Fried Chicken and Waffles | Classic combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles |
| Truffle Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese | Creamy mac and cheese with truffle and smoked gouda |
The French Pantry
The French Pantry is a beloved Jacksonville staple known for its sandwiches, bruschetta, and homemade cakes. Visitors are greeted with an old-world French charm and a wide range of unique ingredient combinations. Not to be missed is the Reuben sandwich, hailed as the best in town, made with hot pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut. Save room for dessert, as The French Pantry offers an array of homemade cakes and desserts, with the wedding cake being a crowd favorite.
Signature Dishes
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Reuben sandwich | The French Pantry’s famous Reuben sandwich is made with hot pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, creating a flavorful and satisfying combination. |
| Bruschetta | Indulge in The French Pantry’s delicious bruschetta, featuring a variety of toppings like fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on crusty bread. |
| Homemade cakes | The French Pantry is renowned for its homemade cakes, baked with love and skill. From rich chocolate cakes to delicate fruit tarts, there’s a dessert for every sweet tooth. |
- Reuben sandwich
- Bruschetta
- Homemade cakes
Blue Bamboo
Blue Bamboo is a go-to spot for traditional Cantonese cuisine in Jacksonville. The menu features favorites like stir-fried noodles and fried rice, perfect for sharing. The standout dishes include the Cantonese-style roasted duck, known for its crispy skin and tender meat, and the Chinese barbecue spareribs, prepared from a closely guarded family recipe. Be sure to end your meal on a sweet note with the Mandarin orange cake, topped with cream cheese frosting.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Cantonese-style roasted duck | A classic Cantonese dish known for its crispy skin and tender meat. |
| Chinese barbecue spareribs | Prepared from a closely guarded family recipe, these barbecue spareribs are packed with delicious flavors. |
| Mandarin orange cake | A delightful dessert featuring a moist Mandarin orange cake topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. |
Conclusion
Jacksonville, FL is truly a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary delights that will satisfy any palate. From the flavors of Indian cuisine at Mesa to the elegance of French-inspired dishes at Restaurant Orsay, this vibrant city has something for everyone.
If you’re in the mood for a delicious and indulgent burger experience, Carolina Jax is the place to be. For those seeking a more upscale dining experience with breathtaking waterfront views, look no further than Cowford Chophouse. Silkies Chicken and Champagne Bar offers a unique combination of southern comfort food and champagne cocktails, and The French Pantry is a must-visit for its scrumptious sandwiches and homemade cakes. And if you’re craving Cantonese cuisine, Blue Bamboo is the go-to spot for traditional dishes like roasted duck and Chinese barbecue spareribs.
Don’t miss out on your chance to explore Jacksonville’s incredible restaurant scene and discover why it’s renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings. Plan your next dining adventure in this vibrant city and indulge in the diverse range of flavors that it has to offer.
