Jacksonville has a thriving food scene that blends Southern flavors, fresh seafood, and international influences. Whether you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, casual comfort food, or a quick bite at a food truck, Jacksonville has something for every foodie.
This guide covers the best restaurants in Jacksonville for 2024, categorized by cuisine and experience, so you can easily find the perfect place to eat.
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Jacksonville
For special occasions, date nights, or elevated dining experiences, these restaurants offer the best in service, ambiance, and gourmet cuisine.
Matthew’s Restaurant
- Cuisine: French & New American
- Location: San Marco
- Why Go: One of Jacksonville’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants, offering a curated menu with seasonal ingredients. The tasting menu and wine pairings are a must-try.
- Must-Try Dish: Lobster Ravioli
Orsay
- Cuisine: French & Southern Fusion
- Location: Avondale
- Why Go: A chic, upscale restaurant known for its seafood, steaks, and craft cocktails.
- Must-Try Dish: Duck Confit with Truffle Fries
Cowford Chophouse
- Cuisine: Steakhouse
- Location: Downtown Jacksonville
- Why Go: A high-end steakhouse with rooftop views of the Jacksonville skyline. Ideal for a luxury dining experience.
- Must-Try Dish: Dry-Aged Ribeye
Pro Tip: Make reservations in advance, especially on weekends, as these fine dining spots fill up quickly.
Best Seafood Restaurants in Jacksonville
Being a coastal city, Jacksonville is known for its fresh seafood, from casual fish shacks to upscale waterfront restaurants.
Safe Harbor Seafood
- Cuisine: Fresh Seafood
- Location: Mayport & Jacksonville Beach
- Why Go: A local favorite for fresh-caught seafood, directly sourced from local fishermen.
- Must-Try Dish: Blackened Mahi-Mahi with Hush Puppies
Dockside Seafood Restaurant
- Cuisine: Casual Seafood
- Location: Jacksonville Beach
- Why Go: A laid-back, no-frills restaurant with waterfront views and fresh seafood platters.
- Must-Try Dish: Shrimp & Grits
North Beach Fish Camp
- Cuisine: Upscale Seafood
- Location: Neptune Beach
- Why Go: Combines a casual coastal vibe with gourmet-quality seafood.
- Must-Try Dish: Cedar Plank Salmon
Pro Tip: If you want to enjoy seafood with ocean views, visit Salt Life Food Shack in Jacksonville Beach.
Best Brunch Spots in Jacksonville
Whether you’re looking for a classic Southern brunch or a trendy café, Jacksonville has plenty of great brunch options.
Maple Street Biscuit Company
- Cuisine: Southern Comfort Food
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Why Go: Famous for flaky buttermilk biscuits, homemade jam, and gravy-covered comfort food.
- Must-Try Dish: The Five & Dime Biscuit (Fried Chicken, Bacon, Cheese & Gravy)
Black Sheep Restaurant
- Cuisine: American
- Location: Riverside
- Why Go: A modern brunch spot with rooftop views and farm-to-table ingredients.
- Must-Try Dish: Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
Taverna
- Cuisine: Italian & Brunch Classics
- Location: San Marco
- Why Go: A stylish eatery with a European-inspired brunch menu and great espresso drinks.
- Must-Try Dish: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Pro Tip: Arrive early for brunch on weekends, as these places can have long wait times.
Best Pizza & Italian Restaurants in Jacksonville
For pizza lovers and Italian food enthusiasts, these spots serve authentic, handmade dishes that will satisfy your cravings.
V Pizza
- Cuisine: Wood-Fired Pizza
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Why Go: One of Jacksonville’s best pizzerias, offering authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.
- Must-Try Dish: Margherita Pizza with San Marzano Tomatoes
Olio
- Cuisine: Italian Fusion
- Location: Downtown Jacksonville
- Why Go: A hidden gem offering handmade pasta, fresh ingredients, and creative dishes.
- Must-Try Dish: Truffle Mushroom Ravioli
Enza’s Italian Restaurant
- Cuisine: Traditional Italian
- Location: Mandarin
- Why Go: A family-friendly, old-school Italian restaurant serving hearty pasta dishes.
- Must-Try Dish: Chicken Parmesan
Best Burger Joints in Jacksonville
Sometimes, you just want a good, juicy burger. These spots serve some of the best in town.
Epik Burger
- Cuisine: Gourmet Burgers
- Location: Southside
- Why Go: A burger lover’s paradise with a wide selection of unique and creative burgers.
- Must-Try Dish: Truffle Gouda Burger
M Shack
- Cuisine: Classic & Modern Burgers
- Location: St. Johns Town Center & Riverside
- Why Go: Combines high-quality beef with inventive toppings.
- Must-Try Dish: The Sunrise Burger (Bacon, Egg, & Cheddar)
Ted’s Montana Grill
- Cuisine: Bison & Beef Burgers
- Location: St. Johns Town Center
- Why Go: Specializes in bison burgers, known for their flavor and health benefits.
- Must-Try Dish: Bison Bacon Cheeseburger
Pro Tip: Pair your burger with a local craft beer from one of Jacksonville’s many breweries.
Best International Cuisine in Jacksonville
For those looking to explore global flavors, Jacksonville has great options.
Hawkers Asian Street Fare
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Location: Riverside
- Why Go: A lively restaurant offering small plates inspired by Asian street food.
- Must-Try Dish: Korean BBQ Pork Belly Bao
The Bread & Board
- Cuisine: Mediterranean & American Fusion
- Location: Downtown Jacksonville
- Why Go: A unique spot that blends charcuterie-style dining with fresh, local ingredients.
- Must-Try Dish: Moroccan Spiced Chicken Wrap
TacoLu
- Cuisine: Mexican & Tacos
- Location: Jacksonville Beach
- Why Go: One of the most popular taco spots in the city, known for its creative taco options and tequila bar.
- Must-Try Dish: Bangin’ Shrimp Taco
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Eat First?
Jacksonville is home to an impressive food scene, with something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, gourmet burgers, authentic Italian, or international flavors, this list will help you find the best spots in town.
