Angelica Santini Hernandez
By Angelica Santini Hernandez
Northeast Florida is a hidden gem on the culinary map of the United States. Over time, our dining options have grown considerably along with our population and diversity to better reflect our vibrant community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the restaurant scene offers a delightful lineup of flavors and experiences. Here are some of my top restaurants that I have been able to go-to and enjoy over the years.
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La Catrina Tacos & Tequila Bar
“Opening La Catrina has been a dream come true, allowing us to bring authentic Mexican dishes to our community and see our customers love our food. As we approach our fifth anniversary, we’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone, which reflects the love and passion we’ve poured into La Catrina and the incredible response from our customers. We’ve expanded to St. Augustine and Jacksonville and plan to open more locations soon, continuing to offer the same quality and authenticity. Thank you for being part of our journey, we appreciate the love and support.” stated owner Wico Carlon.
Middleburg’s La Catrina Tacos & Tequila Bar offers an authentic Mexican dining experience that is well worth the short drive. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine, La Catrina features a menu packed with traditional Mexican favorites such as street tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, burritos and more. The extensive tequila and margarita selection adds to the festive vibe, making it a great spot for a fun night out or a festive meal with family and friends. The incredible staff are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and well cared for. Don’t miss their signature dishes like the Quesa Birria Tacos, Molcajete and the secret menu Camarones Texanos, which have become local favorites and even my own favorites.
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Tulua Bistro
Tulua Bistro offers a dynamic dining experience with two distinct locations — Jacksonville Beach and Springfield. Both locations are celebrated for their bright, inviting ambiance accented by vibrant murals. This laid-back yet lively environment perfectly complements their diverse menu, featuring items like breakfast best sellers like charcuterie boards, croissant sandwiches, and Strawberry Nutella Dream Belgian Waffles, alongside all-day mimosa specials and an impressive fan favorite 64-ounce Bloody Mary. Both locations emphasize from-scratch brunch fare, including popular breakfast charcuterie boards and bottomless mimosas, making Tulua Bistro a perfect spot for brunch enthusiasts and those seeking a vibrant dining atmosphere in Jacksonville. With all their options, it’s hard for me to pick a favorite dish so to make it easy I would say their Chef’s Choice Charcuterie board never fails me. It tends to have their amazing sausage bombs, crab cake benedicts, acai bowl, chicken and waffles, scrambled eggs, and more.
tuluabistro.com
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Koushinryou
Koushinryou Japanese Curry and Sando offers a unique and inviting dining experience with a focus on Japanese curry dishes and sandos. This cozy spot is known for its friendly service and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant specializes in a variety of curries, including Katsu Curry and Thai Red Curry Katsu, as well as Japanese sandos like the Chicken Katsu Sando and the Egg Salad Sando. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a hearty meal. Koushinryou is particularly famous for its desserts, especially the Strawberry Ube Cream Sando. In addition to their delicious food, they offer a selection of refreshing drinks to complement your meal. The restaurant is also known for its high-quality customer service and clean, well-maintained environment, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
koushinryou.com
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RH Rooftop
Located on the third story of RH Jacksonville, an impressive 70,000-square-foot design gallery situated in the St. Johns Town Center, is the luxurious RH Rooftop Restaurant. This sophisticated location offers both indoor and outdoor sitting with beautiful greenery, marble surfaces, and sparkling chandeliers unlike anywhere else in Jacksonville. The restaurant offers classic American fare in addition to a carefully chosen menu of exquisite wines and craft brews. Known for its elegant and refined ambiance, RH Rooftop Restaurant is ideal for special events or a classy eating encounter. A glass-and-steel atrium and outdoor terraces that offer stunning views of the surroundings improve the atmosphere. My absolute favorite is their ribeye steak paired with crispy sweet potato fries and their irresistible specialty sauce: It’s perfection.
rh.com/us/en/jacksonville/restaurant
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Johnny Angel’s Diner
Surrounded by other incredible restaurants in St. Johns, this little secret spot is such a great hidden gem, bringing the 1950s vibes back with its decor, atmosphere and food. Open since 2008, their signature burgers, house chili and milkshakes are must tries. Locally owned and operated, dinners quickly become regulars, especially because of their great customer service.
For this hidden gem, my favorites have to be The Comet Burger and The ThunderBird breakfast sandwich. And don’t forget about their strawberry and cheesecake milkshake to end the trip with a sweet treat.
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Indochine
Indochine in Downtown Jacksonville brings the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia to life through its authentic Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. The chic, modern interior provides a stylish backdrop for a flavorful dining experience where dishes like aromatic Pho, beloved for its complex broth and tender meats, and classic Pad Thai, a essential Thai street food combining stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu or shrimp, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, take center stage. My personal favorite is their Pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup that’s a symphony of savory, fragrant, and comforting flavors. Savor a range of curries, each exhibiting the richness and legacy of Thai food, from the creamy Massaman to the fiery Green. Whether you’re looking to explore the rich spices of Southeast Asia or just want to curl up with a bowl of Pho during a rainy day, Indochine promises to take you on a culinary and cultural voyage that will transport you to traditional Southeast Asian food.
indochinejax.com
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V Pizza
V Pizza is celebrated for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza baked in imported Italian brick ovens, ensuring a crispy crust for its fresh, flavorful toppings. The restaurant is a great place for both informal get-togethers and family celebrations because of its warm and lively ambience. It has multiple locations in Jacksonville, including San Marco, Mandarin and Fleming Island. All of which feature live music, trivia nights and a kind, attentive staff. The menu offers a selection of pizza and wings. The Margherita Classico, which combines fresh basil, bufala mozzarella, and San Marzano tomatoes, is my particular favorite. A large variety of Italian wines and craft beers are available on the drink menu, which elevates the whole eating experience making V Pizza a must try.
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The Bearded Pig
Barbecue enthusiasts like my father and I will find their haven at The Bearded Pig in San Marco. This BBQ joint serves up mouthwatering smoked meats and classic Southern sides that make it a true BBQ-lover’s dream. From tender brisket to juicy ribs, every bite is a testament to their expertise in slow-cooked perfection. The laid-back outdoor seating area provides the perfect setting for enjoying a cold beer and a meal with friends and family. This is my go-to spot on a Sunday evening, where I always indulge in their irresistible smoked brisket sandwich piled high with tangy barbecue sauce and served alongside creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a meal that satisfies both the craving for great barbecue and the desire for a relaxing end to the weekend.
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Dockside Seafood Restaurant Jax Beach
Located along the picturesque St. Johns River, the restaurant provides guests with stunning views of the water and passing boats. The interior boasts a casual, nautical theme with maritime décor, wooden furnishings, and large windows that allow natural light to flood the space. Outdoor seating is available on a spacious deck, perfect for enjoying the Florida sunshine and cool river breezes. There’s also a selection of non-seafood options, including steaks, chicken, and vegetarian dishes, ensuring something for every palate. The bar at Dockside Seafood Restaurant serves a wide range of beverages, including craft beers, fine wines, and signature cocktails. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a fun evening with friends, Dockside Seafood Restaurant provides a memorable dining experience with its delicious food, friendly service, and beautiful waterfront setting. Pro tip: I love seafood and always go for the three-way combo.
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Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop and Restaurant
Lastly, for a sweet ending to your culinary adventure, Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop and Restaurant in Downtown is a whimsical delight. This massive candy mansion offers a full dining menu alongside its vast array of handmade candies and chocolates. The playful, colorful decor and the delicious treats make it a perfect spot for families and anyone with a sweet tooth, which is my perfect spot after a big dinner, since I always need a sweet treat. My favorite indulgence at Sweet Pete’s is their signature Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart. This exquisite dessert features a buttery tart shell filled with rich, chocolate ganache infused with hints of sea salt, perfectly balanced with a layer of smooth caramel.
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