A Foodie Tour of TOP Jacksonville Beach Restaurants

Take a foodie tour through one of Florida’s most popular beach destinations in this round-up of Jacksonville Beach Restaurants! The 1920s were a ‘hot’ time for Jax beach – where the likes of John D. Rockefeller, F.D.R., Al Capone, and Jean Harlow were rumored to have visited the alluring tourist town. Its boardwalk, dance casinos, dining, amusement rides, and wide beaches were known throughout America.

A lot has changed throughout the years, but one thing remains the same: Jacksonville Beach is a top destination for families and couples alike. Check out this foodie tour of the best Jacksonville Beach Restaurants below!

This is a partnered post. All opinions are my own.

A Foodie Tour of TOP Jacksonville Beach Restaurants

The Perfect Breakfast Spot – Maple Street Biscuit Company

Known for its comfort food with a twist, Maple Street Biscuit Company is making a splash throughout the South! Open for breakfast through lunch, this amazing foodie stop includes signature biscuits with an array of toppings. I recommend the Cinnamon Pecan Biscuit with Icing for a twist on a cinnamon roll or the savory Asiago and Bacon Waffle. Another favorite is their Sunshine in the Garden entree with maple meatballs (pictured below). Find locations here.

Food for the Soul at Gilbert’s Hot Chicken, Fish & Shrimp

You can’t miss lunch at Kenny Gilbert’s New Hot Chicken, Fish & Shrimp restaurant right on the water. Kenny Gilbert is best known for his appearance on “Top Chef” season seven. His brilliant career includes appearances on the “Today Show” and “CBS Saturday Morning” in addition to “Beat Bobby Flay” where he won! This humble, country boy loves to cook! Now an owner of four restaurants in the area, Gilbert’s Hot Chicken, Fish & Shrimp offers hot or not varieties of southern cuisine. The BLT Biscuit sandwich is a guest favorite. I highly recommend the Mac & Cheese – you won’t be disappointed! (Both dishes are pictured below) The Bourbon Pecan Pie is a nice way to finish an amazing meal at Gilbert’s too! Afterward, head upstairs to see the stunning beach views from Gilbert’s Southern Kitchen + Bar restaurant.

Award-Winning Dinner at Ocean 60

Enjoy live music (on select nights), artwork, and an amazing dinner by award-winning chef Danny Groshell. Receiving many honors including Florida’s top 500 restaurants and Jacksonville Magazine’s top 25, Ocean 60 is a local favorite. This upscale dining spot offers freshly caught seafood straight from the port, along with several other delicious dining choices. I highly recommend the brussels sprouts and pork carnitas that are tossed in a warm bacon vinaigrette – need I say more? It’s amazing, and I don’t even like brussels sprouts! You must try it! The Goddess Salad (pictured below) is another favorite.

Visit Monday-Saturday 5-7 for 1/2 off select martinis and wine too.

Whit’s Custard for Dessert

I stopped into Whit’s on a whim after watching several patrons walk by Ocean 60 with ice cream in hand. It’s a very popular dessert spot. I was too full from the five-course dinner at Ocean 60, so I made sure to return the next day to sample their frozen custard while window shopping at the local shops. I’m so glad I did! I recommend the Beach Madness (chocolate peanut butter).

 

One of America’s Top Dinner Theaters – Alhambra Theatre & Dining

The award-winning Alhambra dinner theater is celebrating its 50th anniversary. It’s the oldest dinner theater in the U.S.! I had the amazing opportunity to dine there followed by The Marvelous Wonderettes show. This off-Broadway smash hit is a must-see if it’s available in your town! I really enjoyed the Alhambra Theatre & Dining atmosphere and service. It was nearly full on a Tuesday night, so it’s definitely a local hot spot.

The Best View on the Beach – Casa Marina Hotel Penthouse Lounge

This ‘grand lady’ is still standing since 1925! The Casa Marina Hotel was the first fireproof building at the beach. After several renovations, the Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant offers 24 bedrooms and parlor suites decorated to represent the changing eras of its rich history. This oceanfront hotel is a popular spot for weddings – hosting hundreds per year. Their popular courtyard and walkability to the beach and pier are perfect for those dreaming of a beach wedding.

The penthouse lounge – a beach dining mainstay – offers exquisite panoramic views of the 40-mile barrier island beach. I highly recommend sitting on the rooftop to watch the sunset with a flirty martini in hand. I also suggest the brisket bruschetta for a light bite. It’s delicious!

Casa Marina’s Sunday brunch buffet is widely popular as well. I enjoyed overnight accommodations including a sampling of their breakfast menu as well.

Now it’s your turn to take a Foodie Tour of the Jacksonville Beach Restaurants! Which restaurant are you most excited to dine at?

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