Best Restaurants in Jacksonville

If you’re looking for the best casual meal in Jacksonville, you need to add Metro Diner to the list. This classic All-American diner is consistently ranked as a Jacksonville favorite.

Primarily serving breakfast and lunch, you’ll find 7 locations across Jacksonville. It's an inviting place to start your day before exploring the many attractions and restaurants in Jacksonville FL.

The prices are great, and the portions are generous – it’s no surprise that this Jacksonville staple has quickly expanded across America. And don’t worry – while Metro Diner is now a chain – it’s stayed perfectly true to its Jacksonville roots. 

As the name suggests, Green Papaya has been serving up traditional Asian eats across Jacksonville.

Immediately when you walk in, you’ll notice how modern and beautiful the locations are. Thai cuisine takes center stage here, with favorites like Thai Basil Fried Rice and Peanut Curry prepared throughout the day.

For seafood lovers, Green Papaya also serves classic sushi rolls that are filled with fish. There are 3 locations in Jacksonville and one down in St. Augustine. 

Five Points is home to some of the best restaurants in Jacksonville. The historic neighborhood is full of unique shops. It’s also where you’ll find the famed Black Sheep Restaurant.

This trendy spot focuses on serving up classic American fare with a modern twist. Black Sheep boasts fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients. Guests return for standout dishes like the Roasted Oysters and fried olives, along with a thoughtfully crafted cocktail menu.

Grab a spot on the rooftop patio if you can. You'll enjoy sweeping views of the Jacksonville skyline while dining. 

Southern BBQ is a Florida favorite. The Bearded Pig BBQ is known for their tender slow-smoked BBQ meats, signature sauces, and sides.

You can order meat and sides a-la-carte or order a platter of the Bearded Pig favorites. Top picks include the brisket and the pulled pork. And you can’t forget the mac and cheese!

Whether you're gathering with friends or catching a game, the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to settle in and stay awhile.

Just a couple blocks off of St John’s River in the Avondale neighborhood is the Brick Restaurant. They describe their menu as a creative and modern take on American classics and that seems to be a pretty accurate description!

The menu is packed with steakhouse favorites, as well as new takes on seafood, like their Mahi Mahi and Lump Crab Cakes.

For brunch, the Surf and Turf Benedict is a must-try, featuring tenderloin and crab! With options ranging from brunch favorites to hearty dinners, Brick offers something for a variety of tastes and occasions.

We told you that Five Points was a mecca of delicious eats. And Taqueria Cinco is here to prove it. This bright and eclectic Mexican spot features authentic tacos and street foods.

While you can get classic tacos like Chorizo and Al Pastor, you’ll love the more unique and rare combos. Have you ever tried grilled cactus? Well, you can at TaqueriaCinco in the Nopales tacos.

The lively atmosphere and flavorful menu make it a popular stop for locals and visitors alike.

The Salt Life brand is a cult favorite among surfers, this beach-themed dining experience brings surf and sand to life. Fresh seafood is the star of Salt Life Food Shack’s menu, you’ll find everything from lobster rolls and poke bowls to sushi. (Don’t worry, there are non-seafood options on the menu too!) The laid-back coastal setting adds to the experience, making it a great place to unwind after a day at the beach.

Not hungry yet? Stop by during your beach day and enjoy some of their island-inspired drinks or a signature rum flight.

For a quick, easy, and filling meal, Surfwiches is a hidden gem. This Jacksonville Beach sandwich shop is just a few blocks from Neptune Beach and is a favorite stop for casual, satisfying bites.

It’s a long way from Philly, but their Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches are a hot commodity. They also have other classic sandwiches, like Reubens, burgers, and hot dogs on the menu. Pair your freshly made sub with a cold beer, one of Surfwiches' signature milkshakes, or a sweet scoop of gelato for dessert.

Surfwiches has plenty of indoor seating. On a beautiful day, grab your meal to-go and enjoy it near the beach.

If you find yourself on the Southbank, make sure to check out BB’s Restaurant and Bar. This popular local spot is well-suited for celebrations, date nights, or a relaxed evening out with friends.

The menu has tons to offer, with everything from their signature pizzas to savory fried brussel sprouts. Many dishes feature Southern-inspired flavors that add a distinctive touch to the menu.

Weekend brunch is also popular at BB’s with a menu that includes a Short Rib Hash and Salmon Cake Benedicts. Be sure to save room for dessert—the generous cake slices are a guest favorite.

You’ll come for the thin-crust pizza and stay for the welcoming vibes. Located in Murray Hill, many will claim Moon River has some of the best pizza they’ve ever had. Whether you're dining in or taking a pizza to go, the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to settle in and enjoy a meal.

Sip on a cold beer while enjoying a slice of their classic homemade pizzas or calzones. The topping options are plentiful, and you’ll notice that they even offer fresh garlic as a topping here. If you’re not sure what to order, the White Pizza and Greek Salad are crowd favorites.

Beaches and diners? Who could go wrong? While Beach Diner isn't directly on the beach, its bright, coastal-inspired atmosphere captures the laid-back feel of Jacksonville's shoreline.

You’ll find this local hot spot in the Gates of Olde Mandarin off of San Jose Blvd. This is the perfect breakfast stop if you’re an early bird or hoping to beat the brunch crowds.

Enjoy comforting breakfast favorites, from classic Eggs Benedict to French toast, along with lunch options that include burgers, salads, and more. There’s something at Beach Diner for everyone.

Cuban sandwiches are a Floridian staple. 1928 Cuban Bistro is home to authentic Cuban food at its finest.

Diners rave about the empanadas and their classic Cuban sandwiches, but the menu is huge.

You’ll find everything from salads to alfajores on here. If you're short on time, a selection of ready-to-go pastries and specialty items makes it easy to grab something on the move.

Make sure to try their Cuban coffee and espressos. Our favorite? The Cafe Con Leche. The charming interior adds to the experience and makes for a memorable visit. 

There’s nothing like a piping hot Bowl of Pho after a long day of exploring. Warm, comforting, and full of flavor, it's a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

If you’re not familiar with pho, it’s a Vietnamese soup and noodle dish. The aromatic broth is typically made by boiling beef bones, vegetables, and spices for several hours. It’s often served with beef or chicken as well as cilantro and bean sprouts. Make sure to add a squeeze of lime and hot sauce for good measure.

Whether you’re new to pho or already love it, Bowl of Pho is the go-to in Jacksonville. If you’re not feeling up to noodles, the menu is packed with other Vietnamese staples like spring rolls and fried rice.

Biscottis is another Avondale staple. The small and cozy bistro-style restaurant features American fare with a Southern twist. Despite being tucked alongside several of Jacksonville’s best restaurants, Biscottis keeps people coming back. Its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully prepared menu make it a favorite dining destination in the neighborhood.

The lunch and dinner menus are unique yet still feel homey. And from Sweet Potato Pancakes to a Cajun Seafood Benedict, their weekend brunch is also a showstopper.

It can get busy here, so make a reservation if you’re coming out of your way. Many guests also stop in for dessert, with bread pudding and house-made cakes among the most popular treats. 

Julington Creek Fish Camp boasts one of the best dinners with a view in Jacksonville. Located just off Julington Creek near Mandarin Park, the restaurant is a bit of a trek from Downtown Jacksonville. The scenic waterfront setting and seafood-focused menu make the journey worthwhile.

From shrimp and grits to grilled octopus, Fish Camp has truly mastered the art of Florida seafood with a southern twist. Dessert is an affair to remember here, with a classic Key Lime Pie or their Signature White Chocolate Bread Pudding. Combining a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful water views, Fish Camp is a memorable stop for anyone exploring restaurants in Jacksonville, FL.

Fish Camp is the perfect balance between casual and elegant, making it the perfect restaurant to round out Red Roof's list of top restaurants in Jacksonville.