Jacksonville Florida Food Scene

Jacksonville, Florida may not be nationally recognized as a top food destination, but the city’s dining scene has been steadily growing and improving over the past decade. From established classics to new hot spots, Jacksonville offers a diverse array of culinary experiences.

At the heart of Jacksonville’s food culture is, naturally, seafood. Located on the Atlantic coastline of northeast Florida, the city has access to fresh local catches like shrimp, grouper, snapper and oysters. Popular longtime restaurants like Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant and Atlantic Seafood and Oyster Bar serve up classic fried baskets and raw bars with views of the St. Johns River.

In recent years, more chef-driven restaurants focusing on elevated takes on Southern fare have popped up and gained acclaim. Examples include Orsay, which artfully merges French technique with Southern ingredients, and Town Hall, which puts local twists on comfort food in a casual setting. The dining room at Restaurant Orsay was even named one of the most beautiful in Florida by Conde Nast Traveler.

Food trucks and ethnic eateries have added diversity to the scene. Cuban sandwiches sizzle at Mojo Kitchen BBQ, pho is faithfully prepared at Pho Today, and vegan comfort food shines at the eclectic Southern Roots Filling Station. Food truck rallies draw in locals looking to sample a wide variety of mobile cuisine.

Several dining and entertainment districts have helped establish Jacksonville as a dining destination. San Marco Square offers boutique shopping and al fresco dining with Mediterranean flair. Hipster hangouts line King Street in historic Riverside, while beachfront Atlantic Beach offers seaside restaurants and beach bars.

The city’s relationship with food continues to grow through events like the Jazz Festival, frequent farmers markets and craft beer festivals. As Jacksonville comes into its own as a food city, it continues to nurture its loyal residents, draw in visitors and spur future culinary innovation. The area is ripe for food tourism and exploration.