FOLIOBARBECUE JOINTS & STEAKHOUSES
THE BEARDED PIG SOUTHERN BBQ & BEER GARDEN, 1224 Kings Ave., 619-2247, San Marco, thebeardedpigbbq.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
The Southern barbecue and beer garden, on the Southbank, offers brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, sausage, beef—and veggie platters. All the sides are made-from-scratch. Kid-friendly. Craft beers and wine. $$ BW K TO L, D Daily
BIG OAK BBQ & CATERING, 1948 Henley Rd., Middleburg, 214-3041; 1440 Dunn Ave., Westside, 757-2225, bigoakbbqfl.com
Family-owned-and-operated barbecue joints have smoked chicken, pulled pork, ribs, sides and something called “stumps,” which, since some of us here at Folio Weekly headquarters are at least one-quarter Southern, sounds damn good. $ K TO L D M-Sa
BONO’S PIT BAR-B-Q, 8011 Merrill Rd., Ste. 23, Arlington, 743-3727; 3303 San Pablo Rd. S., Intracoastal, 223-1391; 1266 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 249-8704; 1275 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 270-2666; 2420 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 794-9424; 4907 Beach Blvd., San Marco, 398-4248; 10065 Skinner Lake Dr., Southside, 998-1997; 10645 Philips Hwy., Southside, 886-2801; 5711 Bowden Rd., Southside, 448-5395; 5903 Norwood Ave., Northside, 765-1817; 100 Bartram Oaks Walk, Fruit Cove, 287-7710; 12620 Bartram Park Blvd., Mandarin, 652-2989; 9820 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 268-2666; 1765 Town Center Blvd., Eagle Harbor, 269-8870; 731 Duval Station Rd., Northside, 551-4241; 5229 Jammes Rd., Westside, 900-3259; 2640 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 211, Middleburg, 282-4288; 705 S. Lane Ave., Westside, 783-1404, bonosbarbq.com
For 60-plus years, Bono’s has been slow-cooking all manner of meats, and serving them with tangy sauces, including baby back ribs, barbecue salad and chicken breast sandwiches among the faves. $ FB K TO L D Daily
CAPTAIN STAN’S SMOKEHOUSE, 700 Bedell Ave., Woodbine, Georgia, 912-729-9552
All kinds of barbecue, sides, hot dogs, burgers, desserts. Dine in or out on picnic tables. $$ FB K TO L & D Tu-Sa
COTTEN’S BAR-B-QUE, 2048 Rogero Rd., Arlington, 743-1233
For more than 30 years, Fred Cotten Jr. has been offering his family’s pit-cooked barbecue items, with legendary sauces made in-house from original recipes. Cotten’s moderately priced selections are served in a casual atmosphere. $$ K TO L D M-Sa
JENKINS QUALITY BARBECUE, 2025 Emerson St., Southside, 346-3770; 830 N. Pearl St., Downtown, 353-6388; 5945 New Kings Rd., Northside, 765-8515, jenkinsqualitybarbecue.com
For 61 years, family-owned Jenkins has served great down-home barbecue. Slather sauce on a whole chicken or a basket of crinkle-cut fries. All three Jenkins spots have a convenient drive-thru. $ TO L D Daily (Northside & Southside closed Su)
MOJO BAR-B-QUE, 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood, 732-7200
MOJO OLD CITY BBQ, 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine, 342-5264
MOJO SMOKEHOUSE, 1810 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 8, Fleming Island, 264-0636
MOJO NO. 4 URBAN BBQ & WHISKEY BAR, 3572 St. Johns Ave., Ste. 1, Avondale, 381-6670
MOJO KITCHEN BBQ PIT & BLUES BAR, 1500 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 247-6636, mojobbq.com
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
The barbecue joints offer pulled pork, Carolina-style barbecue, chicken-fried steak and Delta fried catfish. A wide bottled beer selection and full bar are available. Avondale’s Mojo No. 4 has shrimp & grits and specialty cocktails. $$ FB K TO B L D Daily
MONROE’S SMOKEHOUSE BAR-B-Q, 4838 Highway Ave., Westside, 389-5551; 10771 Beach Blvd., Southside, 996-7900, monroessmokehousebbq.com
Monroe’s in-demand smoked meats include wings, pulled pork, brisket, turkey and ribs. Homestyle sides include green beans, baked beans, mac-n-cheese and collards. $$ K TO L M-Sa; D F
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE, 1201 Riverplace Blvd., Southbank, 396-6200; 814 A1A, Ste. 103, Ponte Vedra, 285-0014, ruthschris.com
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
A consistent Best of Jax winner for Best Steaks, Ruth’s Chris serves Midwestern custom-aged U.S. prime beef, cooked in 1,800°F broilers. Fresh seafood, live Maine lobster and an extensive selection of wines are also on the menu. Reservations suggested. $$$$ FB D Nightly
SONNY’S REAL PIT BAR-B-Q, 1720 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 824-3220; 2720 S.R. 16, St. Augustine, 824-3315; 12485 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 288-7928; 1976 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 272-4606; 1923 S. Lane Ave., Westside, 786-0081; 4434 Blanding Blvd., Westside, 777-0730; 5097 University Blvd. W., Lakewood, 737-4906; 12719 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 220-9499; 10840 Harts Rd., Northside, 751-4225, sonnysbbq.com
For 50 years, Sonny’s has been a Northeast Florida favorite. Beef, pork, chicken and ribs are cooked in a wood-fired pit, and sides include Vidalia onion rings, corn nuggets, potato salad, barbecue beans and coleslaw. AYCE specials daily. $ BW K TO L D Daily
STICKY FINGERS RIBHOUSE, 13150 City Station Dr., Northside, 309-7427, stickyfingers.com
The Memphis-style smokehouse slow-smokes meats over aged hickory wood. Award-winning ribs, barbecue, rotisserie-smoked chicken. HH weekdays. $$ FB K TO L D Daily
TERRA GAUCHA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE, 4483 Southside Blvd., 551-5920
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
The churrasco has tableside service of fire-roasted meats, plus authentic side dishes. Light lunch available. Reservations encouraged. $$$ FB L, D Daily
TEXAS ROADHOUSE, 550 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 213-1000, texasroadhouse.com
Your server doesn’t look like Dalton, but after you dig into the steaks, ribs, seafood and chops, you won’t care. The atmosphere’s casual and family-friendly. It’s the kind of place where you just feel like one of the gang. Daily specials, daily HH, ice-cold beer and legendary margaritas. $ FB L D Daily
VALLEY SMOKE BBQ, 11 S. Roscoe Blvd., Ponte Vedra, 285-3235, valleysmoke.com
Local culinary legends Ben and Liza Groshell add another one to their collection. Right on the ICW, Valley Smoke has slow-smoked barbecue, plus seafood, chicken and venison. Real Palm Valley fare! Rare bourbons and Scotches are in the Bourbon Library, as well as wines, craft beers and cocktails. $$ FB L, Daily; D, M; R, Sa & Su
WOODPECKER’S BACKYARD BBQ ,4930 S.R. 13, St. Augustine, 531-5670, woodpeckersbbq.weebly.com
The barbecue is smoked fresh daily. Brisket, ribs, pork, sausage, turkey available in sandwiches, in plates and by the pound. Eight sauces, 10 sides. $$ TO L D Tu-Su
WOODY’S BAR-B-Q, 8206 Philips Hwy., Ste. 25, Southside, 265-0066; 5930 Powers Ave., Lakewood, 739-7427; 1638 University Blvd. S., Southside, 721-8836; 8540 Argyle Forest Blvd., Argyle, 772-7675; 226 Solana Rd., Ste. 1, Palm Valley, 280-1110; 1301 N. Orange Ave., Green Cove Springs, 284-1014; 474323 S.R. 200, Yulee, 206-4046, woodys.com
The regional favorite offers barbecue plates, barbecue salads and pulled pork sandwiches. Lunch and dinner specials, and several AYCE specials. A seniors’ discount is available at some locations. $ BW K TO L D Daily
BRITISH & IRISH CUISINE
ANN O’MALLEY’S DELI & PUB, 23 Orange St., St. Augustine, 825-4040, annomalleys.com
Across from Old City Gates, the pub has a casual menu of soups, salads and sandwiches–favorites include the Reuben and chicken salad. Dine inside or on the porch. Irish beers on tap. $ BW K L D Daily
BARLEY REPUBLIC IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE & RESTAURANT, 48 Spanish St., St. Augustine, 547-2023, barleyrepublicph.com
The Irish bar and pub serves burgers and sandwiches plus Irish faves, like fish & chips and bangers & mash. More than 70 beers and wines are served, including 10 on draft daily. Dine indoors or out on the deck. $$ BW K L D Daily
THE BRITISH PUB, 213 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 810-5111
The place offers darts and serves ale, beer and wine, as well as traditional meat pies, Cornish pasties and sausage rolls. Authentic British food and candies available at the shop within. $$ FB D Nightly
CULHANE’S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE, 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-9595, culhanesirishpub.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Bite Club certified
An upscale Irish pub and restaurant owned and managed by four sisters from County Limerick, Ireland. The menu includes favorites like shepherd’s pie and corned beef, and the gastropub menu reaches new culinary heights. $$ FB K R Sa & Su; L F-Su; D Nightly
DONOVAN’S IRISH PUB, 7440 U.S. 1 N., Ste. 108, St. Augustine, 829-0000, donovansirishpub.com
The spot features a mix of classic Irish entrées and traditional American dinners, plus appetizers and pub grub, Irish beers and whiskeys. $$ FB K L D Daily
FIONN MacCOOL’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT, Jax Landing, Ste. 176, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 374-1547; 145 Hilden Rd., Nocatee, 217-7021 , fionnmacs.com
Newly reopened after hurricane repairs, the popular pub offers casual dining with an uptown Irish atmosphere, serving fish and chips, Guinness lamb stew and black-and-tan brownies. Reuben spring rolls–’nuff said. And Fionn’s now serves a new, lighter lunch menu. $ FB K L D Daily
THE KING’S HEAD BRITISH PUB, 6460 U.S. 1 N., St. Augustine, 823-9787, kingsheadbritishpub.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Owner Ann Dyke and her family serve British draught beers and cider in 20-ounce Imperial pints in an authentic pub. Cornish pasties, and fish & chips. North of the airport; look for the red double-decker bus in front. $$ FB K L D Daily
LYNCH’S IRISH PUB, 514 N. First St., Jax Beach, 249-5181, lynchirishpub.com
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
A Beaches landmark, the popular pub has corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fish & chips. There’s a vast selection of imported and domestic draft beers on tap. $$ FB TO L D Daily
MEEHAN’S IRISH PUB & SEAFOOD HOUSE, 20 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, 810-1923, meehansirishpub.com
The pub, just south of the old fort, has burgers, traditional pub fare, seafood and a raw bar, along with signature dishes including steak O’Shay’s, Dubliner chicken and Irish Benedict. $$$ FB K Daily
MULLIGANS PUB, 45 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra, 285-1506, mulliganspubpontevedra.com
The Irish pub, at Hilton Garden Inn, offers a variety of favorites and Irish dishes. And Guinness, of course! $$ FB B L D Daily
O’LOUGHLIN PUB, 6975 A1A S., St. Augustine, 429-9715
The popular family-owned-and-operated Irish pub and restaurant serves authentic fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, corned beef & cabbage and bangers & mash. Duck wings are a fave. $$ FB K TO L D Daily
CAFÉS, DELIS & SANDWICH SPOTS
20 WEST CAFÉ, 20 W. Adams St., Downtown, 222-0695, fscj.edu/20-west-cafe
This farm-to-table, counter service restaurant is run by FSCJ’s Culinary Arts & Hospitality Program students and staff. In other words, it works. The café serves breakfast and lunch weekdays. Chef Brett Cromer is a local who has been all over the region. His passion is offering forward-thinking, healthy options in the Urban Core. $$ B & L, M-F
AKEL’S DELICATESSEN, 50 N. Laura St., Ste. 125, Downtown, 446-3119; 21 W. Church St., Downtown, 665-7324; 12926 Gran Bay Pkwy. W., Mandarin, 880-2008; 245 Riverside Ave., Ste. 195, 791-3336, akelsdeli.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
The New York-style deli offers freshly made fare–create from the extensive menu, or order a specialty sandwich: subs (Three Wise Guys, Champ, The Godfather), burgers, gyros, wraps, desserts, vegetarian dishes, full breakfast menu and signature salad dressings. $ K TO B L M-F
ARDEN’S KAFÉ & KATERING, 4555 St. Johns Ave., Ste. 3, Ortega, 240-1404, ardens-kafe-and-katering.com
From gourmet to Cajun, Chef Arden deSaussure can create it, using local seafood, veggies and meats. $$ TO B Sa; L Tu-Su; D Su
BAGEL LOVE, 4114 Herschel St., Ste. 121, Avondale, 634-7253, bagellovejax.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
The locally-owned-and-operated spot offers Northern-style bagels, a variety of cream cheeses, sandwiches, wraps, subs and bakery items, as well as fresh-squeezed lemonade, coffees and teas. $ K TO B L Daily
THE BREAD & BOARD, 1030 Oak St., Riverside, 862-6992, thebreadandboard.com
This newish spot serves massive sandwiches, meat, cheese or vegetable boards, large plates, fresh breads, craft beers, wine and natural sodas. Ingredients are locally sourced when possible; vegetable sides can be oven and fire-roasted. Specialty infused tea and coolers can be enjoyed on an outside patio–and your pooch is welcome there, too. HH M-F. $$ BW K TO L D M-Sa
BRIGHT MORNINGS BISTRO & CAFE, 105 Third St. S., Fernandina, 491-1771, brightmornings.us
The delightful café offers breakfast sandwiches, bowls, burgers, lunches and sandwiches. Indoor/outdoor dining; dog-friendly backyard. $ TO B R L Th-Tu
CAFÉ KARIBO, 27 N. Third St., Fernandina, 277-5269, cafekaribo.com
In a historic building, the family-owned café serves worldly fare, including made-from-scratch dressings, sauces and desserts, in support of local purveyors and sourcing fresh greens, veggies and seafood. Dine inside or al fresco on the shaded outdoor dining area. Microbrew Karibrew Pub offers beer brewed onsite, imports, full bar. $$ FB K TO R, Su; L Daily, D Tu-Sa in season
KARIBREW BREW PUB & GRUB, 27 N 3rd St, Fernandina Beach, 277-5269
The island’s first microbrewery is next door to its sister restaurant, Cafe Karibo. Karibrew offers a variety of beers, spirits and pub food. $$ FB TO R Su; L Daily; D Tu-Su
CHAMBLIN’S UPTOWN, 215 N. Laura St., Downtown, 674-0870, chamblinbookmine.com
2017 Best of Jax winner
Breakfast sandwiches made with fresh Healthy Bagel bagels and croissants, unique lunch wraps, homemade soups, desserts, weekly specials. Read ’em and eat. Vegan/vegetarian fare, too. $ BW TO B L Daily
CLARA’S TIDBITS RESTAURANT, 1076 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 396-0528, tidbitsfood.com
For 25-plus years, this spot has specialized in good food served in a friendly atmosphere, with popular lunch items like chicken salad and avocado sandwiches. Delivery available. $ TO L M-F
TIDBITS EXPRESS, 8535 Baymeadows Rd., 516-4144, clarastidbits.com
The little spot serves the same items as Tidbits. Place your order at a terminal–but there are real people if you need assistance. $ TO L M-Sa
COOL MOOSE CAFE & BISTRO, 2708 Park St., Riverside, 381-4242, coolmoosecafe.net
The New England-style café has a full breakfast menu, classic sandwiches, wraps and soups, and brunch all day Sun. Beer, wine and an extensive gourmet coffee selection are available. $$ BW B L Tu-Sa; R Su
THE CUMMER CAFÉ, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Ave., 356-6857, cummer.org
2017 Best of Jax winner
Light lunch, quick bites, locally roasted coffee, espresso-based beverages, homemade soups, sandwiches, gourmet desserts, daily specials. Dine indoors or in the museum’s gardens. $ BW K L D Tu; L W-Su
FIRST COAST DELI & GRILL, 6082 St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 513-4548, firstcoastdeliandgrill.com
The Grand Opening is today, July 25! Chef Richard Robinson believes in integrity, passion, fresh ingredients, service and customer satisfaction–these tenets will make this place a success. Serving traditional diner fare: oversized pancakes and bacon, sandwiches, salads, wings and burgers. $ K TO B L Daily
THE LOCAL, 4578 San Jose Blvd., Lakewood, 683-8063, thelocaljax.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
With an emphasis on giving the customer healthful fare disguised as delicious food, this spot serves innovative items for breakfast and lunch, along with some serious caffeine. Espressos, iced coffee drinks, lattes, cappuccinos and chai drinks are served. Start the day with housemade sangria, Bellinis and mimosas; later, choose from a wide variety of beers and local wines. $ BW K TO B L Daily
OLIO MARKET, 301 E. Bay St., Downtown, 356-7100, oliomarket.com
Made-from-scratch soups, salads and sandwiches. They even cure their own bacon and pickle their own pickles. It’s home to the duck grilled cheese, seen on Best Sandwich in America. Open late for First Wednesday Art Walk. $$ BW TO B R L M-F; D F & Sa
THE ORIGINAL CAFÉ ELEVEN, 501 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 460-9311, originalcafe11.com
The former convenience store serves coffee drinks, vegetarian meals and meaty Southern comfort dishes. $ FB B L D Daily
PINEGROVE MARKET & DELI, 1511 Pine Grove Ave., Avondale, 389-8655, pinegrovemarket.com
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
Bite Club certified
For 40-plus years, the market has served hearty breakfasts and lunches: Cuban sandwiches, burgers, subs, wraps and homemade chicken salad. The onsite butcher shop sells USDA choice prime aged beef cut to order. Craft beers. $$ BW TO B L D M-Sa
POINTE RESTAURANT, 98 S. Fletcher Ave., Amelia Island, 277-4851, elizabethpointelodge.com
2017 Best of Jax winner
Owners Jim and Gaye Dunlop’s restaurant, within award-winning inn Elizabeth Pointe Lodge, offers elegant seaside dining with a spectacular view of the island and the sea. Dine indoors or outside. There’s a hot buffet breakfast daily, full lunch menu. Homestyle soups, specialty sandwiches, desserts. Once-a-month Sunday brunch. Reservations suggested. $$$ BW K B L Daily
SURFWICHES SANDWICH SHOP, 1537 Penman Rd., Jax Beach, 241-6996, surfwiches.com
The craft sandwich shop boasts Yankee-style steak sandwiches and hoagies. All sandwiches are made to order. $ BW TO K L D Daily
UPTOWN KITCHEN & BAR, 1303 Main St. N., Springfield, 355-0734, uptownmarketjax.com
Bite Club certified
In the 1300 Building at the corner of Third and Main. The kitchen has fresh quality fare, innovative breakfast, lunch and dinner farm-to-table selections and creative daily specials. $$ BW TO B L Daily
WHITEWAY DELICATESSEN, 1237 King St., Riverside, 389-0355
The deli sets the bar high with an extensive sandwich selection, including some items you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. It’s a good spot to catch current and former politicos talking about the city’s future over tabouli or ham sandwiches. $ TO B L M-F
CASUAL SPOTS & JOINTS
ANDY’S FARMERS MARKET GRILL, 1810 W. Beaver St., Northside, 354-2821, jaxfarmersmarket.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
It’s smack-dab amid the landmark Jacksonville Farmers Market, for 75-plus years offering local, regional and international produce. Andy’s serves breakfast items, sandwiches, snacks and beverages. $ B L D M-Sa
BURRITO WORKS TACO SHOP, 671 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 217-7451; 114 St. George St., St. Augustine, 823-1229, burritoworks.com
You’ll find Baja-style tacos and burritos, 100 percent vegetarian bean burritos, fish tacos and hormone-free meats, along with homemade guacamole. $ TO L D Daily
CHOMP CHOMP, 4162 Herschel St., Avondale, 329-1679
The relocated spot has eats at moderate prices–most less than $10. Chef-inspired fare includes The Philadelphia Experiment (sweet pork over arugula), panko-crusted chicken, burgers, Waldorf salad, bahn mi, Southern fried chicken, The Come Up (portabella mushroom, green tomato salsa, almonds). Curry Chomp chips, pasta salad. Dine in or out. HH. $ BW L D M-Sa
CRUISERS GRILL, 319 23rd Ave. S., Jax Beach, 270-0356, cruisersgrill.com
Locally owned and operated for 20-plus years–Bobby Handmaker is a pro–this casual restaurant serves half-pound burgers, fish sandwiches, big salads, award-winning cheddar fries and sangria. $ BW K TO L D Daily
DEERWOOD BISTRO, 8221 Southside Blvd., Ste. 24, 527-3451, deerwoodbistro.com
The busy, casual bistro serves familiar fare like baguettes, paninis, burgers, entrées, seafood and desserts. $$ BW K TO B L D Daily
DELICOMB, 102 Sixth Ave. N., Jax Beach, 372-4192, delicomb.com
The folks at the family-owned-and-operated deli make it all with natural, organic ingredients–no hydrogenated oils or high-fructose corn syrup. Granola, tuna salad, kimchi, wraps and spicy panini melts are on the varied menu. Delicomb–just steps from the sand–uses coffees from Strongtree Coffee. $$ TO B L Tu-Su
FIREHOUSE SUBS, 10131 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 8, Mandarin, 886-2179; 9825 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 886-2179; 4268 Oldfield Crossing Dr., Mandarin, 338-0142; 6352 103rd St., Ste. 5, Westside, 854-0224; 1620 Margaret St., Ste. 105, Riverside, 674-2204; 13245 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 9, Intracoastal, 220-7140; 8355 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 101, 737-3473; 36B Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 276-0701; 1855 Cassat Ave., Westside, 695-1055; 200 CBL Dr., Ste. 106, St. Augustine, 819-1808; 2245 C.R. 210 W., Ste. 11, St. Johns, 823-9914; 8221 Southside Blvd., Ste. 4, 996-0894; 1038 Dunn Ave., Ste. 1, Westside, 338-0098; 2640 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 210, Middleburg, 291-4411; 1581 C.R. 220, Ste. 115, Fleming Island, 215-7302; 1978 S. Eighth St., Fernandina, 491-8095; 13470 Beach Blvd., Intracoastal, 223-9557; 2400 Yankee Clipper Dr., Northside; 465 S.R. 13, Ste. 13, Julington, 287-3495; 2285-B Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 276-1537; 1448 S. Sixth St., Macclenny, 259-3473; 6337 Roosevelt Blvd., Ste. 2, NAS, 854-0057; 233 Third St., Neptune Beach, 249-6013; 1234 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 339-0312; 6752 Normandy Blvd., Ste. 03, Westside, 338-9000; 9660 Argyle Forest Blvd., Westside, 329-3944; 357 Marsh Landing Pkwy., Jax Beach, 280-9404; 790 Skymarks Dr., Ste. 103, Northside, 674-2799; 1949 San Marco Blvd., Ste. 1, 396-0001; 10261 River Marsh Dr., Ste. 131, Northside, 674-0536; 4347 University Blvd., Ste. 1, Southside, 731-1888, firehousesubs.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Jacksonville-based sub chain, founded by firefighters, serves large portions of premium meats and cheeses, steamed hot and piled on a toasted sub roll. And cherry-limeade! Kids’ meals include a free fire hat. Delivery. $ K TO L D Daily
GREEN TURTLE TAVERN, 14 S. Third St., Fernandina, 321-2324, greenturtletavern.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
In a historic shotgun shack, this legendary Dirty ’Dina hangout has Chicago-style Vienna beef hot dogs and pub fare, full bar and a chill island atmosphere. $ FB L D Daily
THE HAPPY TOMATO COURTYARD CAFÉ & BBQ, 7 S. Third St., Fernandina, 321-0707, thehappytomatocafe.com
The funky little restaurant is slightly off the beaten path, but it’s well worth those 25 extra steps. Owner Richard Bolton’s spot serves fresh deli sandwiches and barbecue–pulled pork, smoked turkey and ribs–in a laid-back atmosphere. Homemade walnut chocolate chunk cookies are a specialty. And a certain FW editor craves the chicken salad. Dine inside or in the shaded courtyard. $ BW K TO L M-Sa
HARPOON LOUIE’S, 4070 Herschel St., Ste. 8, Avondale, 389-5631, harpoonlouies.net
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Locally-owned-and-operated, the American pub has been a fixture here for 20-plus years, offering half-pound burgers, fish sandwiches and pasta, local beers; HH weekdays. $$ FB K TO L D Daily
JIMMY HULA’S, 13170 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 63, Intracoastal, 220-9001, jimmyhulas.com
Beach-themed place serves fish tacos and burgers, craft beers and wines. $ BW K TO L, D Daily
JOHNNY’S DELI & GRILLE, 474 Riverside Ave., 356-8055
The popular casual spot serves made-to-order breakfast and lunch fare, including grilled wraps, gyros and grilled chicken salad. $ TO B L M-Sa
LARRY’S GIANT SUBS, 6586 S.R. 40 B6, St. Marys, 912-576-7006; 474272 S.R. 200, Fernandina, 844-2225; 8616 Baymeadows Rd., 739-2498; 1301 Monument Rd., Ste. 5, Arlington, 724-5802; 10750 Atlantic Blvd., Intracoastal, 642-6980; 3611 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S., Ste. 101, Southside, 641-6499; 4479 Deerwood Lake Pkwy., 425-4060; 830 A1A N., Ste. 6, Ponte Vedra, 273-3993; 657 N. Third St., Jax Beach, 247-9620; 12001 Lem Turner Rd., Northside, 764-9999; 1509 Margaret St., Riverside, 674-2794; 7895 Normandy Blvd., Westside, 781-7600; 5733 Roosevelt Blvd., Westside, 446-9500; 8102 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 1, 779-1933; 700 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 15, Orange Park, 272-3553; 1401 S. Orange Ave., Green Cove, 284-7789; 1330 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 276-7370; 1545 C.R. 220, Orange Park, 278-2827, larryssubs.com
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
With locations all over, Larry’s is known for piling hot and cold subs high and serving ’em fast for 35-plus years. Brothers Larry and Mitch Raikes began here in Jax, setting high standards right from the start. The turkey breast is antibiotic-free, the grilled chicken is hormone-free and sustainably farmed. The guys are still Yankees at heart: The award-winning breads are from New York’s Costanzo’s Bakery. Some Larry’s now serve breakfast. $ K TO B L D Daily
LITTLE MARGIE’S FA CAFÉ, 303 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 471-2006, littlemargiesfacafe.com
“FA” is short for First Access–this beachy café is located north of the County Pier, directly across from the first beach access to the sea. The tiny kitchen cranks out daily specials, like jerk fish and mango wrap. $ BW K L D Tu-Su
MERCURY MOON GRILL & BAR, 2015 C.R. 220, Fleming Island, 215-8999
Mercury Moon serves a variety of burgers and wings and signature sandwiches, including Philly cheesesteaks, fried fish sandwiches and half-pound Moon burgers. $ FB D Nightly
NED’S SOUTHSIDE KITCHEN, 2450 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 794-2088,
nedssouthside.com
The casual island-influenced place has Mediterranean dishes, tacos, meat loaf and shrimp and grits, in addition to vegetarian options. There’s a drive-thru to pick up orders. $ BW TO L D M-Sa
ONE TWENTY THREE BURGER HOUSE, 123 King St., St. Augustine, 687-2790
The spot, from the owners of Carmelo’s Pizza down the street, has premium burgers, made with beef sourced from renowned NYC butcher Schweid & Sons. There are wood-fired pizzas and an ice cream bar turning out Old World milkshakes, too. Outdoor dining. $$ BW K TO L D Daily
RED FROG & McTOAD’S GRUB-N-PUB, 5545 A1A S., St. Augustine, 814-8430
The casual eatery offers award-winning chowder, seafood, chicken, pasta and sandwiches. $$ FB K TO L D Daily
SANDOLLAR RESTAURANT, 9716 Heckscher Dr., Northside, 251-2449, sandollarrestaurantjax.com
Right on the banks of the St. Johns, serving seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Dine inside or on the deck, with a panoramic river view. Seafood buffet every W $$ FB R Su; L D Daily
SCARLETT O’HARA’S, 70 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 824-6535, scarlettoharas.net
2017 Best of Jax winner
In a historic 1861 house with an outdoor bar and pub interior, pit-smoked barbecue, seafood, burgers, wings, steamed oysters and appetizers. $$ FB K TO L D Daily
SUPER FOOD & BREW, 11 E. Forsyth St., Downtown, 723-1180, superfoodandbrew.com
Once a food truck, now this popular brick-and-mortar eatery serves health-conscious New American cuisine that’s heavy on the fresh flavors and short on the pre-fab (that’s a good thing). Lots of craft beers to accompany sides like yucca fries and mac-and-cheese balls, along with salads, sandwiches and poke bowls. $$ BW TO L, D Daily
CHINESE CUISINE
CHEF CHAN ASIAN CUISINE, 9802 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 3, 645-7333
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Asian fusion and Cantonese dishes, made to order. Fresh whole fish, roast duck, roast pork, beef, chicken, vegetable, shrimp. It’s generous servings at reasonable prices. One Yelper wrote: “Most of the customers were Chinese.” Validation! Dine inside or out. $$ BW K TO L Sa & Su; D Tu-Su
CHUN KING, 2771 Monument Rd., Ste. 33, Arlington, 646-1393
From sushi to soup to fried bananas, this place has daily chef specials and AYCE Mongolian barbecue. Sake and a full menu, including Thai and Japanese dishes, are also served; all MSG-free. $ BW TO L M-F; D M-Sa
FLAMING SEAFOOD & SHAO KAO BBQ, 1289 Penman Rd., Jax Beach, 853-6398
New place (is it Chinese? Barbecue? Seafood?) serves meats and vegetables, spiced, skewered on bamboo sticks. $ BW TO L, D Daily
GOLDEN CHINA CHINESE RESTAURANT, 11112 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 23, Mandarin, 260-8836, goldenchina1.com
Mandarin, Szechwan and Cantonese dishes, as well as daily lunch and dinner buffets featuring a hot bar and a cold bar. $$ BW TO L D Daily
GREAT WALL CHINESE RESTAURANT, 12200 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 4, Mandarin, 262-9107
The popular restaurant’s menu features Szechwan, Hunan and Cantonese dishes. $ TO L D Daily
HAWKERS ASIAN STREET FARE, 1001 Park St., 5 Points, 508-0342, eathawkers.com; 241 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 425-1025
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
The menu is based on Asian street vendors, peddling authentic dishes from mobile stalls. The chefs collected the best hawker recipes to serve under one roof, like BBQ pork char sui, beef haw fun, Hawkers baos, chow faan and grilled hawker skewers. $$ FB TO L D Daily
PAGODA CHINESE RESTAURANT, 8617 Baymeadows Rd., 731-0880, pagodarestaurant.net
Mr. Tam, owner and chef, has been serving customers since 1975. Popular dishes include the seafood combination (lobster, shrimp, scallops and Chinese vegetables) and spicy General Tso chicken. $ FB TO L D M-Sa
TIMWAH CHINESE DIM SUM RESTAURANT, 8358 Point Meadows Dr., Ste. 11, Southside, 329-3676
Timwah is all about the dim sum, and it’s a welcome addition to the area. Dim sum is a style of traditional Chinese dumplings prepared as small bites, filled with a variety of meat, veggies and seafood. The menu has a ton of options. Go with a group so y’all can order a lot of different items and sample them all. $$ TO L W-Su
COFFEEHOUSES
BOLD BEAN COFFEE ROASTERS, 869 Stockton St., Stes. 1-2, Riverside, 853-6545; 2400 S. Third St., Ste. 201, Jax Beach, 374-5735; 1905 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 853-6545, boldbeancoffee.com
2017 Best of Jax winner/favorite
Directly traded, locally roasted, limited lot coffees. Signature blends, hand-crafted syrups, espressos, craft beers. Pastries and specialty sandwiches from Knead Bakeshop. Great selection of local, regional craft beers and wines. $ BW TO B L Daily
BREEZY COFFEE SHOP WINE BAR, 235 Eighth Ave. S., Jax Beach, 241-2211, breezycoffeeshopcafe.com
Beachy coffee & wine shop by day; wine bar at night. The casual, local-family-owned coffee shop serves fresh pastries and a variety of espressos and locally roasted coffees, plus vegan and gluten-free options. Sandwiches, local beer, wine and mimosas, too. Relax indoors or outside. Free WiFi. $$ BW K TO B R L Daily
BREW FIVE POINTS, 1024 Park St., Riverside, 374-5789, brewfivepoints.com
Local craft beers, espresso, coffees and wine bar are featured along with rotating drafts, 75-plus canned craft beers, as well as sodas and teas. The seasonal menu of waffles, pastries, toasts, and desserts is designed to pair with specialty coffees and craft beers. $$ BW K B L Daily; late night Tu-Sa
THE COFFEE GRINDER, 9834 Baymeadows Rd., 642-7600, thecoffeegrinderjax.com
Owner Slava Micukic runs this coffee gallery, which features works by local artists. A full coffee/espresso menu is available. Beer served after 7 p.m. $ BW B L D Daily
DOS COFFEE & WINE, 300 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 342-2421, dosbar.com
Industrial chic coffee and wine bar features handcrafted pourovers and beans from Covina Roastery. Pressed sandwiches, farm fresh salads, and build-your-own cheese boards. $$ BW TO B L D Daily
SOUTHERN GROUNDS & CO., 200 First St., Beaches Town Center, Neptune Beach, 249-2922; 1671 Atlantic Blvd., San Marco, 619-1503,
sogrcoffee.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
The newest iteration of a Beaches institution, this place offers fine coffees, desserts, wine, craft beers and quick bites. Dine indoors or out, with patio and courtyard seating. $$ BW TO B L D Daily
SPRING PARK COFFEE, 328 Ferris St., Green Cove, 531-9391, springparkcoffee.com
Cozy shop; fresh-roasted Brass Tacks coffee, handcrafted hot & cold drinks, specialty lattes, cappuccino, macchiato, teas, pastries, sandwiches, breakfast. $ B L D Daily
THE URBAN BEAN COFFEEHOUSE CAFÉ, 2023 Park Ave., Orange Park, 541-4938, theurbanbeancoffeehouse.com
Locally-owned-and-operated coffeehouse serves … well, coffee, as well as espresso, smoothies and teas. Breakfast goes all day, every day: omelets, donuts, bagels, paninis, yogurt pots. Lunch: flatbreads, BLTs, hummus, desserts. $$ K TO B L D Daily
URBAN GRIND COFFEE COMPANY, 45 W. Bay St., Ste. 102, Downtown, 516-7799, urbangrind.coffee
2017 Best of Jax favorite
There’s a variety of locally roasted, whole bean brewed coffees, espresso drinks, smoothies, fresh pastries and bagels with homemade cream cheeses. Lunch includes chicken salad (best ever), tuna salad and sandwiches. Plus they’re FW’s tastiest neighbors! Free WiFi. $ B, L M-F
URBAN GRIND EXPRESS, 50 W. Laura St., 516-7799.
2017 Best of Jax favorite. See above.
CUBAN, CARIBBEAN, PERUVIAN, SPANISH & TEX-MEX CUISINE
BEIGNET’S CARIBBEAN CAFÉ, 4770 Barnes Rd., Ste. 1, Southside, 737-6789
A taste of the Caribbean jerk chicken, oxtail, goat, mahi sandwiches, and Caribbean beignets with coffee from New Orleans Cafe Du Monde. $ BW B L D M-Sa
B STREET EATS ,1173 Edgewood Ave. S., Murray Hill, 503-8489, bstreeteats.com
Festive Latin- and South American-themed place serving salads, sandwiches or boxes of slow-cooked proteins—3-day pork, vegan jackfruit or chicken. Check out the wall featuring hundreds of cross-sections of locally sourced tree trunks. $ BW TO L, D Daily
CASA MAYA, 22 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 823-0787, casamayastaug.com
Owner Marco Barrera serves authentic upscale Mayan cuisine that’s mostly organic, including a juice bar and daily specials. In the heart of the historic district, Casa Maya offers a hearty selection of dishes, both vegetarian and meat. $$$ TO B L D W-Su
DE REAL TING CAFÉ, 128 W. Adams St., Downtown, 633-9738
The Caribbean place has jerk or curried chicken, conch fritters and curried goat and oxtail. $ FB TO L Tu-F; D F & Sa
EL PALERMO, 2177 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 276-7701
The flavors are Caribbean and Puerto Rican at the family-friendly spot. Authentically crafted dishes served in a clean, no-frills atmosphere. Empanadas, black beans and rice, plantains, flan and cafe con leche. $$ K L D Tu-Sa
FLYING IGUANA TAQUERIA & TEQUILA BAR, 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 853-5680, flyingiguana.com
2017 Best of Jax winner
The funky spot at The Corner serves a fusion of Latin American and Southwestern-influenced fare: tacos, seafood, carnitas and Cubana sandwiches, plus more than 100 tequilas. Outdoor seating. $$ FB TO L D Daily
HAVANA-JAX CAFÉ/CUBA LIBRE BAR, 2578 Atlantic Blvd., St. Nicholas, 399-0609, havanajax.com
Bite Club certified
2017 Best of Jax winner
The Cuban sandwiches served in this clean, bright café are the real thing: big, thick, flattened. Traditional Cuban fare like black beans and rice, plantains, steaks, seafood, chicken and rice, and roast pork. Spanish wine and Cuban drink specials, mojitos and Cuba libres. We like the electric palm trees outside. HH all day, every day. $ FB K L D Daily
ISLAND TROPICS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, 2527 N. Main St., Northside, 355-3050, islandtropics.net
This relaxed spot serves island dishes like fried plantain and codfish for breakfast, and curry goat, jerk chicken and hot wings for lunch and dinner. Desserts, baked goods, tropical drinks, vegetarian meals. $$ BW TO B L D Daily
LECHONERA EL COQUÍ, 3620 Blanding Blvd., Westside, 432-7545
The Puerto Rican place offers popular chulleta kan kan (pork chops), Tripletta churosco sandwich and more native flavors. It’s like a part of the Isle of Enchantment is now in Jax. $ FB TO L D Tu-Su
MANGO MANGO’S BEACHSIDE BAR & GRILL, 700 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 461-1077, mangomangos.com
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Just steps from the A Street beach access, the Caribbean kitchen has comfort food with a tropical twist. Specialties include coconut shrimp and fried plantains. Outdoor seating. $$ BW K L D Daily
MARIANAS GRINDS, 11380 Beach Blvd., Ste. 10, Intracoastal, 206-612-6596
Pacific Islander fare, emphasizing the chamorro culture with soups, stews, fitada, beef oxtail, katden pika; spicy empanadas, lumpia, chicken relaguen, barbecue-style ribs, chicken. $$ TO B L D Tu-Su
THE MOSSFIRE GRILL, 1537 Margaret St., Riverside, 355-4434, mossfire.com
Just a stone’s throw from 5 Points intersection, Mossfire manages to satisfy indie kids and conservative businessfolk alike. Southwestern dishes like fresh fish tacos, chicken enchiladas are popular. HH M-Sa in upstairs lounge, all day Su. $$ FB K L D Daily
PISCO’S RESTAURANT, 4131 Southside Blvd., Ste. 101, 646-3888, piscosrestaurant.com
The Peruvian restaurant offers ceviche, jalea, lomo, pollo saltado, arroz con marisco, Inca Cola and Peruvian wines. $$$ BW K L D Daily
PUSSER’S CARIBBEAN BAR & GRILLE, 816 A1A N., Ste. 100, Ponte Vedra, 280-7766, pussersusa.com
Bite Club certified
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Named for the rum, Pusser’s serves innovative Caribbean cuisine and regional favorites, like Jamaican grilled pork ribs, Trinidad smoked duck, lobster macaroni & cheese. Tropical drinks, like Pusser’s Painkiller, are popular house remedies. $$ FB K TO L D Daily
TOSSGREEN, 76 S. Laura St., Ste. 101, Downtown, 574-9905; 4668 Town Crossing Dr., Ste. 105, 686-0234, tossgreen.com
The “fast-casual” place offers custom salads, burritos and burrito bowls with fresh ingredients like fruits, vegetables, 100 percent natural chicken breast and sirloin, shrimp, tofu, nuts, cheeses, dressings, sauces and salsas. Frozen yogurt, too. $$ K L D Daily
DINERS
BEACH DINER, 501 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-6500; 2006 S. Eighth St., Fernandina, 310-3750; 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 683-0079; 880 A1A N., Ste. 2, Ponte Vedra, 273-6545; 1965 San Marco Blvd., 399-1306, beachdiner.com
These locally owned diners have indoor and outdoor seating and Southern comfort items, like fresh seafood, sandwiches and hot lunch specials. Cooked-to-order breakfast available all day–Eggs on the Bayou, fish & grits, French toast, riders, omelets. Plus burgers, sandwiches, shrimp & crabmeat salad. $ K TO B R L Daily
DEERWOOD DELI & DINER, 9934 Old Baymeadows Rd., 641-4877, deerwooddiner.com
Fresh local seafood, Angus steaks, sandwiches, burgers, TVs. $ BW TO K B L Daily
DERBY ON PARK, 1068 Park St., Riverside, 379-3343, derbyonpark.net
This Riverside landmark is under new ownership and undergoing renovation We hear it’ll be
open soon.
THE FOX RESTAURANT, 3580 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 387-2669
2017 Best of Jax favorite
Owners Ian and Mary Chase offer fresh fare and homemade desserts. Breakfast served all day, along with signature items like burgers, meatloaf and fried green tomatoes. An area landmark for 50-plus years. $ BW K L D Daily
GEORGIE’S DINER, 100 Malaga St., St. Augustine, 819-9006, thealcazarcafe.com
Casual ’60s-themed Georgie’s serves homestyle fare and Greek specialties. Outdoor seating. $$ BW B L D Daily
JAX DINER, 5065 St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 739-7070, jaxsdiner.com
Simple name, simple concept: Local. Chef Roderick “Pete” Smith, a local culinary expert with nearly 2
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