Jacksonville has it all: the beach, great weather and delicious food! A culinary melting pot, known as ‘Jax’ to the locals, the city offers everything from food trucks to classic dine-in restaurants. Discover a few fan favorites you need to try out during your next trip to Florida’s “River City by the Sea.”
You’ll soon forget you’re in Florida when you dine on one of the many pastries and delectable dishes offered at The French Pantry. This restaurant began more than 25 years ago after the original owners, Tim and Barbara Felver, left their careers and colleagues (including celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck and pastry chef Mary Bergin) to open their venture in Jacksonville.
Opened by restaurateur Jonathan Insetta, Black Sheep occupies nearly an entire city block in Jacksonville’s Riverside 5 Points neighborhood. The restaurant is focused around Southern cuisine and offers some of the best shrimp and grits in the city, as well as a rooftop and bar for a night out on the town.
This Jacksonville staple sells out nearly every night thanks to its plates of classics and innovative seafood spins. Aqua Grill offers a full covered lakefront deck, a lively bar and, if you reserve your spot in advance, the Chef’s Pass table – giving you and up to 23 guests a glance right into the kitchen.
After a day of dining, be sure to save room and time for a trip to Sweet Pete’s – the largest candy store in the southeast. This Jax favorite in located inside a historic 22,000 sq. ft. mansion in the city’s downtown and hosts candy classes, field trips and even parties. Fun Fact: Sweet Pete’s produces and offers a near endless variety of candy, including gluten-free and vegan options.
Chow down on great food while saving on travel. Book your next trip to Jacksonville using Best Western Rewards and begin earning points on every stay.