Folio Weekly 08/12/15

NOT A FLUID TRANSITION

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RUMMEL OR KAHN? WHO YA GOT?

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THE KING OF MOCK

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AWESOME SAUCE P. 18 GIVE THE CROWD WHAT THEY WANT P. 26 THE DOMAIN OF THE SANDWICH P. 30

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FROM THE EDITOR

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? FLORIDA SENATE RACE has something for everyone FROM MIKE HUCKABEE BEING INTRODUCED by a congressman who said the Supreme Court ruling on gay marriage means that Americans can now marry their lawnmower (certainly a boon for Farmersonly.com) to Ted Cruz cooking bacon with a machine gun while the soundtrack to a Cialis commercial blares in the background (also, likely a boon for Farmersonly.com), the crowded field of Republican presidential candidates has delivered ample fodder for those of us in media to chew on, digest and regurgitate as commentary; over the course of his three week campaign alone, The Donald has inspired countless columns (no less than two from yours truly), and after his performance in last week’s debate, The New York Times would’ve been wise to prepare the Sunday Review as the Donald Review.

As we learned from shows like Jon and Kate Plus 8 and 19 Kids and Counting, large groups of unserious humans make for the best reality TV. Which is why the race for a Florida Senate seat, currently occupied by the ever-popular, ever-dry-mouthed, speed-boat-buyin’-whenhe’s-broke-as-a-joke Marco Rubio, has the potential to be so, so entertaining.

As of today, there are seven candidates vying for the seat (five Republicans and two Democrats).

But should you care?

Well, the victor will play a role in deciding how the country will tackle the most pressing issues of our lifetime, including wideranging national matters like Wall Street regulation, student loans, climate change, Keystone XL, and reproductive rights, while influencing state and local discussions on federal funding for Obamacare, the balance between development and conservation, our relationship with Cuba, and more. But — of greater import in today’s climate — will you be entertained by this race? Certainly.

Here are just a few reasons to pay attention:

endorsement, and a yacht-load of wealthy bundlers, this Tea Partier is certainly on the rise. So far though, DeSantis has struggled to be recognized statewide among a crowded field.

DEMS WANT TO STEAL THIS SEAT, BAD. For the Blue-ifying of Florida to continue, Dems need big turnouts in metropolitan counties like Miami-Dade, Orange, Palm Beach, and, yes, Duval (which has 20,000 more registered Democrats than Republicans). The fact that 2016 is not a midterm election year should give Democrats some confidence, but rest assured we’ll see plenty of money spent — much of which to be spent by both sides on highly amusing attack ads (don’t forget Democratic Rep. Patrick Murphy has a closetful of skeletons) — here locally.

REPUBLICANS ARE LOOKING TO STAND OUT FROM THE PACK: Rubio remains wildly popular in South Florida — which undoubtedly bolsters his conviction that he is a viable presidential candidate — and he’s earned name recognition on a national scale. But the five Republican candidates opting for his seat are desperately anonymous. Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera’s claim to “fame” is his current title, which — let’s face it — most voters likely believe to be a military rank. Rep. David Jolly rose to “prominence” after a narrowly won race in a district whose lines have been ordered to be redrawn in such a way that he stands virtually

As we learned from shows like Jon and Kate Plus 8 and 19 Kids and Counting, large groups of UNSERIOUS HUMANS make for the best reality TV.

ALAN GRAYSON. Republicans are banking on the wildly popular Democratic congressman’s candidacy to impact the Senate race in much the same way The Donald has impacted the Republican primary. That is to say, they’re hoping for a bull in a china shop. However, as Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders has demonstrated, the base of the party has moved left, and though Grayson can be brash and inappropriate — he once said his supporters would be willing to crawl naked over hot coals for him — his connection to Senator Sanders may lend Grayson the credibility he needs to overcome any gaffs.

Furthermore, just the thought of joint Sanders/Grayson rallies in the Sunshine State is entertainment enough.

LOCAL CONNECTION. With the looks of a young Ted Kennedy and the politics of an old Ted Nugent, Ponte Vedra resident and former Navy Jag Congressman Ron DeSantis was deemed the favorite by Tampa Bay Times political columnist Adam C. Smith. With two Ivy League degrees, a 2012 Donald Trump 4 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

no chance of being reelected there. And let’s not forget newcomer Todd Wilcox or Rep. Jeff Miller … better yet, let’s forget about them. It remains to be seen how any of these candidates will go about raising his profile, but in recent weeks, Planned Parenthood has been an easy target for each man to pilot-test some grandstanding.

NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: As has been the case in the last few presidential elections, Florida will be a big deal again. Many in the know say the likely Republican nominee, Jeb Bush, has based much of his electability on his ability to win his home state (rumor has it Bush will choose Ohio Gov. John Kasich as a running mate, essentially locking up the two most important swing states). The spotlight will shine white-hot on the state of Florida, heating up these local races.

These contests have far-reaching consequences for each party’s direction. Patrick Murphy vs.

Alan Grayson (on the Democratic side) pits an establishment-supported Dem against a more progressively minded faction of the party.

And the range of Republican candidates is set to reinvigorate what’s left of the support for the Tea Party in Florida and beyond in a way Cialis (or pork cooked by heavy automatic weapons) never could.

Get your popcorn ready.

Matthew B. Shaw mshaw@folioweekly.com twitter/Matthew_b_shaw

THIS WEEK // 8.12-8.18.15 // VOL. 29 ISSUE 20 C COVER STORY FFolio Weekly’s

[14]

B BITE BY BITE (Part TWO) D Dining Directory B

By Cuisine AWESOME SAUCE

[18]

BY KEITH MARKS Local HOT SAUCE producers are turning up the heat for Northeast Florida foodies.

GIVE THE CROWD WHAT THEY WANT

[26]

BY BARBARA BENT Concessions at EVERBANK FIELD try to keep pace with national food trends.

THE DOMAIN OF THE SANDWICH cover art by SHAWN MEHARG

FEATURED ARTICLES

NOT A FLUID TRANSITION

[10]

BY DEREK KINNER They forged a relationship based on cost savings. Now a LAWSUIT filed by a WATER USAGE COMPANY could cost the city of Jacksonville MILLIONS

[30]

BY REBECCA GIBSON Who rules the LUNCHTIME STAPLE around Jacksonville’s Downtown?

AT-RISK MANAGEMENT

[12]

BY AG GANCARSKI In Jacksonville, RACE MUTTERS

RUMMEL OR KAHN? [13] WHO YA GOT?

BY CLAIRE GOFORTH Battle Royale for BIGGEST CHEESE of the Bold City

COLUMNS + CALENDARS FROM THE EDITOR 4 OUR PICKS 6 MAIL 8 BRICKBATS & BOUQUETS 8 NEWS 10 FIGHTIN’ WORDS 12

SPRAWL FILM MAGIC LANTERNS ARTS MUSIC THE KNIFE

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ASTROLOGY I SAW U CLASSIFIED CROSSWORD NEWS OF THE WEIRD

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EDITORIAL

EDITOR • Matthew B. Shaw mshaw@folioweekly.com / ext. 115 SENIOR EDITOR • Marlene Dryden mdryden@folioweekly.com / ext. 131 A&E EDITOR • Daniel A. Brown dbrown@folioweekly.com / ext. 128 WRITERS-AT-LARGE Susan Cooper Eastman sceastman@folioweekly.com Derek Kinner dkinner@folioweekly.com CARTOONIST • Tom Tomorrow CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rob Brezsny, John E. Citrone, Brenton Crozier, Julie Delegal, AG Gancarski, Claire Goforth, Dan Hudak, Shelton Hull, MaryAnn Johanson, Keith Marks, Pat McLeod, Nick McGregor, Jeff Meyers, Kara Pound, Kathryn Schoettler, Chuck Shepherd VIDEOGRAPHERS • Doug Lewis, Ron Perry INTERNS • Barbara Bent, Toni Grimsley

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Our Picks

Reasons to leave the house this week

MIND GAMES

BEYOND THERAPY

Dysfunction meets dysfunction head on in Christopher Durang’s adult-themed romantic comedy, Beyond Therapy. When two love-seeking, neurotic Manhattanites seek help from their equally nutty psychiatrists, disaster, weirdness, and laughs ensue – into psychotic, axe-wielding bloodshed! (OK, we made that last bit up.) 7:30 p.m. Aug. 13, 14, and 15 and 2 p.m. Aug. 16, Limelight Theatre, St. Augustine, 825-1164, $25; $23 seniors, $20 military/students; contains adult content; through Aug. 30, limelight-theatre.org.

FOOTBALL, Y’ALL!

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS VS. PITTSBURGH STEELERS

A preseason game can mean different things for different people: a chance to scope out the NFL’s current roster, a way to celebrate America’s beloved sport, or just a reason to drink beer and smear your face with the colors of your favorite team. The first preseason home game between our very own Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers gives us the chance to fulfill all of the above, along with thousands of like-minded peers. Go Jags! 7:30 p.m. Aug. 14 at EverBank Field, Downtown, $42-$470, ticketmaster.com.

POP ROCKS

COUNTRY COOL JIM LAUDERDALE & HIS BAND

Look – we know that it’s not a contest, but singer-songwriter Jim Lauderdale boasts a creative track record that could (lovingly)

COLLEEN GREEN

pummel his peers. Since 1991,

Los Angeles pop punk goddess Colleen Green is known as much for her consumption of cannabis combustibles as she is for issuing killer rock. While Green’s allegedly dropped the daps, she’s maintained her momentum of releasing solid recordings that serve up her melodic riffage, including her latest full-length, I Don’t Want to Grow Up. 5 p.m. Aug. 17 with openers Wet Nurse, Punani Huntah, Nut Beast, Heavy Flow, MF Goon, and Mental Patients, Shanghai Nobby’s, St. Augustine, 547-2188, $6.

Lauderdale has released more than two-dozen solo efforts of his own progressive take on what country music can be. A perennial critical fave, Grammywinning Lauderdale has also penned tunes for mainstream country acts like Vince Gill and Patty Loveless, but seems more at home working with left-of-field folks like Lucinda Williams, Elvis Costello, and,

HIPPEST HOP

most recently, longtime Grateful

Sacramento, California hip-hop duo Blackalicious first jumped onto the rap radar in the early ’90s, with their groundbreaking EP, Melodica. Rapper Gift of Gab (Timothy Parker) and DJ/producer Chief Excel (Xavier Mosley) issued the same cerebral take on lyricism and sonic grooves as peers like A Tribe Called Quest, and were a heady alternative to the then-incoming flux of Gangsta Rap. The band’s upcoming fourth LP, Imani Vol. 1, is slated to drop next month.

8 p.m. Aug. 13 with openers New Breed Brass Band, Billy Winfield, DJ Triclops, Freebird Live, $20 advance; $25 day of, freebirdlive.com.

you want see an artist tuned into

BLACKALICIOUS

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Dead lyricist Robert Hunter. If the past, present, and future of country music (and we know you do), this show is not to be missed. 8 p.m. Aug. 14 with Canary in the Coalmine, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, $35-$45, pvconcerthall.com.

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 7

THE MAIL READERS TALK TRUMP (SOME BRIEFLY, OTHERS … NOT SO MUCH)

I SUSPECT TRUMP’S CANDIDACY IS A SELFserving reality show and he has no more actual interest in running the country than a bull has in running a china shop.

RALPH HARDING via email TECHNOLOGY HAS MADE PEOPLE AWARE THAT career politicians lie most of the time and that Trump tells the truth at least part of the time.

It’s hearing the unvarnished truth of Trump that endears him to the people!

DAVID J. GROSS via email [TRUMP] WOULD NEVER HAVE GOTTEN TO where he is in business if he was ignorant. Even though he may not say all the correct words, many of his comments and thoughts are reflected by many Americans. I’m sure many of us wonder why, for over 20 years, we haven’t been able to solve the illegal immigration issues, even though it’s been an issue probably since Bush 41. I’m tired of hearing every politician sound like a politician. Maybe The Donald doesn’t have any policy initiatives yet, but I’m glad he doesn’t speak like one, either. And even the ones who had been elected haven’t done anything, other than a lot of promises and hot air. Do we really want another Bush in the White House? I’m still waiting for those WMDs to be found. Of course Hillary would probably have a male aid crawl under her desk. I’m proud to say that my parents “legally” came over from Syria almost 60 years ago, paid taxes and had five kids, all born and raised here in Jacksonville, Florida. How about the illegal who killed someone in the Northwest

a few months ago, and had been released numerous times before? Yes, some do jobs that none of us want to do, tend to fields, painters, lawn maintenance, subcontractors, etc. I do appreciate many of them. Just come over legally, that’s all I ask … I’m sorry if my vocabulary isn’t as perfect as yours or The Donald’s, but I’m just a legal American citizen.

RICHARD LYONS via email If you would like to respond to something that appeared in the pages of Folio Weekly, please send an email (with your name, address and phone number for verification purposes only) to mail@folioweekly.com.

BRICKBATS & BOUQUETS BOUQUETS TO JEFFREY SMITH Last week, when the Director of Arts for Duval County Schools decided the District Arts Office – located on the campus of Hogan-Spring Glen Elementary in a nondescript portable in desperate need of a good pressure washing – needed to reflect the mission of the department and inspire the kids on campus, he put out a clarion call to artists to come spruce the place up. If interested in contributing, contact Smith at smithj1@duvalshools.org (he’s offered to pay for supplies).

BRICKBATS TO THE ST. JOHNS COUNTY FIRE RESCUE News 4 Jax reported that an investigation into the handling of the fire at the Belleza condos in Ponte Vedra Beach revealed that three calls were placed to the SJCFR dispatcher before any personnel from SJCFR arrived – and actually exited their vehicle – on the scene. The report also showed the first fire engine to pass through left the scene when the driver didn’t see or smell smoke. The method of driving through a scene with the vehicle window down is OK for, say, forest fires, but it’s not proper procedure for residential blazes. An entire building – 20 units – were damaged.

BOUQUETS TO GROUNDWORK JACKSONVILLE’S GREEN TEAM The local chapter of the national nonprofit Groundwork USA held its Green Team Leadership Camp this summer, in which nine teens from the Historic Springfield area participated in cleanups, planting and other community projects, while soaking up knowledge from environmental experts.

BOUQUETS AND CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF ELEANOR ASHBY The executive director of Leadership Jacksonville, a nonprofit that provides leadership training (with some highly influential alumna), died in late July.

Ashby lent her time and vision to many important institutions in Northeast Florida, including the Women’s Giving Alliance and PACE Center for Girls. She served on the boards of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and Planned Parenthood of Northeast Florida, and was a member of the Jacksonville Women’s Network.

KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A BOUQUET? HOW ABOUT A PROVERBIAL BRICKBAT? Send your submissions to mail@folioweekly.com. Submissions should be a maxium of 50 words and directed toward a person, place, or topic of local interest.

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AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 9

NEWS

They forged a relationship based on cost savings.

Now a LAWSUIT filed by a WATER USAGE COMPANY could cost the city of Jacksonville MILLIONS

NOT A FLUID TRANSITION

FLUID DYNAMICS HOLDINGS IS A DELAWAREbased company that wants to save the residents of Jacksonville’s apartment complexes thousands and thousands of dollars in water bills.

The city of Jacksonville and its Jacksonville Electric Authority, while initially supporting the effort, have now done everything they can to sabotage the project, Fluid officials say, including bribing a company that runs thousands of apartment units across the country and threatening contractors and even St. Johns County with severe repercussions if they continue to do work for or do business with Fluid Dynamics, according to a $75 million lawsuit filed in federal court in December.

At issue is the company’s purported lessexpensive water usage method for residents of apartment complexes in Jacksonville, as well as others who live in multi-residential communities, officials said. The system reduces water flow, which generally would lead to lower pressure, but Fluid Dynamics’ technology is designed to maintain the same pressure while decreasing the amount of water consumed.

Despite the intentions of the design, the city and JEA decided the system was a hazard to safety (firefighting) and health. But they didn’t decide that until well after initially approving it in 2012, even opening the water system for contractors to do the work. A burgeoning business and thousands and thousands of dollars saved in water bills went straight down the drain, the lawsuit says.

The city and JEA have denied any wrongdoing, but officials decline to comment, referring those with questions to read recent court filings.

“Due to the ongoing litigation, the documents that we filed with the court speak to the case and stand alone,” says city public affairs officer Bill Spann. In their responses, the city and JEA denied all allegations cited by Fluid Dynamics in the lawsuit.

According to Fluid Dynamics, the company already had systems installed in about eight of 15 Jacksonville complexes run

by Mid-America Apartment Communities 10 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

Inc., which has a contract with Fluid for numerous complexes and have installed hundreds of others in MAA complexes elsewhere.

“Pursuant to the Lease Agreement, FLUID installed 564 Precision Flow System valves on 100 different MAA properties, including 8 MAA properties in Jacksonville, Florida,” the lawsuit says. “JACKSONVILLE and the JEA were aware of the business relationship between FLUID and MAA and the installation of the Precision Flow System valves on the 8 MAA properties in Jacksonville … MAA met with representatives of the JEA at MAA properties … to discuss the Precision Flow System. Employees of the JEA opened utility vaults on MAA properties and permitted FLUID to assess and survey the plumbing and install the Precision Flow System.”

BUT MISTAKES WERE MADE. “In November 2012, MAA informed FLUID that the JEA had identified two Precision Flow Systems installed on fire lines at MAA properties,” the lawsuit says. Fire lines, which require as much water pressure as possible, were not part of the deal.

Fluid Dynamics spokesman Jeff Weiner says the two sides met to discuss the mistake.

“They were aware that MAA had contracted and installed the systems. We got a call that there were two on fire lines on two different properties. We had a meeting with fire marshals, the city and JEA. It was a very collegial meeting. We presented an independent test of how our system works.

If there was something installed, we were unaware, and we will take them off,” Weiner says. “We were going to work together. They were interested and wanted to do further testing and so on. It was friendly.

“The next day we got blasted in the media.”

In a First Coast News TV newscast on Dec. 4, 2012, city and JEA officials said Fluid Dynamics was putting apartment complex residents in danger by trying to trim water bills and lowering water pressure.

Fluid Dynamics saw that as a 180-degree turn they knew nothing about until the newscast. They also claim in the lawsuit that

the defendants libeled their company and its efforts. And they question possible other motives in the new stance.

JEA saw that the new technology might cut into its revenues, which already were being raided by a city decision to use some of that money to help fund city pension shortfalls, Fluid Dynamics claims in the lawsuit. Though the city cited safety and health concerns for not allowing the new system’s installation, Fluid says the real reason is that JEA revenues could have suffered.

So JEA pulled out the new equipment and that was that, until Fluid filed the suit.

Weiner says the defendants are violating the No. 1 rule for utility providers.

“All utilities are mandated to conserve,” Weiner says. “Whether it’s electricity or water.

Our system services water. The difficult part is that utilities, like any other organization, want to make more money.”

Fluid Dynamics ultimately lost its agreement with the city and then with MAA, a major client loss. Fluid Dynamics says the city and JEA paid off MAA to end its relationship with its company with an “incentive and subsidy package provided by JACKSONVILLE to MAA [that] included a contribution of $1,800,000 in infrastructure work and $5,150,000 in tax refunds.”

Fluid Dynamics is not tucking tail and running. It’s suing the city and JEA not just for blocking its installations, but for libel and slander and interfering with its business opportunities in St. Johns County.

The lawsuit argues Fluid, the city and JEA had agreed to let longtime Northeast Florida contractor W.W. Gay Mechanical Contractor Inc. test the system independently to determine if it was safe. But later, “JACKSONVILLE and the JEA threatened W.W. Gay, by stating that it would blackball W.W. Gay and take away future work from W.W. Gay if it worked with FLUID,” the lawsuit says.

IT DIDN’T STOP THERE. Fluid entered an agreement with St. Johns County to install its system on single residential homes as a test run, but, “When they learned of the burgeoning relationship between FLUID and St. Johns County, JACKSONVILLE and the JEA threatened to remove municipal and utility cooperation and assistance from St. Johns County if St. Johns County continued its business relationship with FLUID. Because St. Johns County heavily relies upon the JEA for utility support and services, St. Johns County terminated its business relationship with FLUID. It was the threats from JACKSONVILLE and the JEA which destroyed the business relationship between FLUID and St. Johns County.”

St. Johns County officials have denied they terminated the agreement because of pressure from Jacksonville officials, saying they approved only one installation and did not plan on allowing more.

Weiner says the city and JEA have continuously stalled since the lawsuit was filed, denying requests for information they believe will bolster their case.

Other than written responses to the allegations in the complaint, the city has dragged its feet on providing Fluid Dynamics with documents and other information they think will support their case, he says.

“It’s certainly been delayed by the city and the JEA,” Weiner says. “They’ve been less than responsive on the discovery requests.”

Derek Kinner mail@folioweekly.com

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 11

FIGHTIN’ WORDS

AT-RISK MANAGEMENT

In Jacksonville, RACE MUTTERS

THE NEW CODE OF CONDUCT FOR DUVAL COUNTY Public Schools is out, and it’s a Duval doozy.

The first rule of Duval County Public Schools is: You don’t talk about Duval County Public Schools.

LOL; JK. As Dr. Vitti put it.

“There will be more aggressive consequences for multiple fighting,” he said to the Florida Times-Union. “If a student is involved in three fights, they will go to alternative schools,” such as Grand Park Career Center.

Code of conduct changes include a points system, in which brawls, booze, and narcotics violations, aggregated, will eventually lead to a student ending up in an alternative school.

Speaking of alternative schools: It’s only been since May when two girls were shot on a school bus as they rode home from one.

“When we think of a school bus, it symbolizes the innocence of youth,” Vitti told WJXT at the time. “It’s another example that violence is rampant in our community. Our children can’t be children,” he said.

While it is undeniable that violence is rampant in our community, it is equally undeniable that these alternative schools are about as far away from the “innocence of youth” as you can get.

By the time a kid ends up tracked to an alternative school, he has likely “acted up” multiple times. Those times include incidents that count against a demerit system, the times when a teacher might have given the benefit of the doubt, and the times when a teacher realized it might be more trouble than it’s worth to report an issue — which I’m told happens frequently.

The question, though, is why the kid acts up. Bad home life? Any home life? Is there a father in the house or a “caretaker” or an “uncle”? What’s the mother up to? Is the grandma raising the kid? Et cetera.

There are problems that government can solve. But school teachers in our day and age cannot raise the kids in their charge. There is way, way too much other stuff to deal with.

The code of conduct is not perfect. But something had to be done. And, despite the best efforts and intentions of all involved, something else will have to be done.

Another initiative that Superintendent Nikolai Vitti is linked to also involves the mayor, the sheriff, and the state attorney.

From Aug. 17 to 24, those parties and other “stakeholders” will embark on the “One City. One Jacksonville … Leadership Week for Young Men” academy.

Bishop John Guns is running this program, via Operation Save Our Sons. One hundred atrisk kids will spend a week being, as Guns calls 12 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

it, “exposed to the city.” They’ll spend time with Mayor Lenny Curry, who has repeatedly voiced his commitment to at-risk youth.

Spend time at the Police Memorial building (“not in handcuffs,” as Guns put it). And with State Attorney Angela Corey, who will “feed them and spend time with them.”

It’s so easy to come up with snark here. I know people reading this are doing so, but what this represents is the establishment in this city attempting to bridge a gap decades, centuries in the making.

And it’s not an easy journey. Guns mentioned at the press conference last Wednesday that Curry and Sheriff Mike Williams were taking a “risk” to “stand with us in this way, at this level.”

Guns didn’t specify what that risk was. No one ever does. Because to actually identify the risk being taken would be to say too much about our local culture, with its divisions made of barbed wire, with its unspoken understanding that the tale of two cities that is Jacksonville is one of the color line.

I asked Curry about the risk.

“Whatever the perceived risk,” Curry said, “this is the right thing to do.”

“Whatever it takes, I’m all in,” the mayor continued, as the room erupted in applause.

It was a great answer. It was real. But it wasn’t the full answer.

The risk is twofold. Sure, there’s a risk in reaching across the racial divide, which encompasses Axe Handle Saturday and segregated schools and neighborhoods that went from thriving to dying, especially once crack took over. A divide which encompasses places like Grand Park and much of Northwest Jax with infrastructure from the Lou Ritter days.

The risk is also in being able to tell folks in Ortega and San Marco and Queen’s Harbour that Jacksonville has an obligation to right historic wrongs. The risk is in committing to that process, even if it means the right wing curses your name. Let them curse. They’ve got nowhere else to go.

People don’t want to hear how things really are. People want to hear #AllLivesMatter.

They want to pretend that there is true equal opportunity. That disparity of outcomes isn’t due to grievous historical inequities.

We have “at-risk youth” because society has failed, and not just in the short term.

They are at-risk because their schools, their neighborhoods, and their role in the economic structure conspire to put them at risk.

Addressing that issue is the single most important challenge the Bold New City of the South faces.

AG Gancarski mail@folioweekly.com twitter/AGGancarski

THE SPRAWL

RUMMEL OR KAHN? WHO YA GOT?

Battle Royale for BIGGEST CHEESE of the Bold City Bad dr Bad Ba d drea dreamer, rea eame m r, me r, what’s wha hat’ t’s your your n name? ame??

Looks like we’re riding on the same train Looks as though there’ll be more pain There’s gonna be a showdown.

— Electric Light Orchestra, “Showdown” AN EPIC SHOWDOWN IS BREWING ON Jacksonville’s streets and, no, it’s not a toewrestling match between all the wannabe Jaxson de Villes for the right to sport the sweatiest nut sack in the South.

We wish! But word on the street is the Jags have already chosen someone to play our fuzzy yellow hero this season.

Actually, fair friends, this boardroom brawl has Jaguars owner Shad Khan facing off against real estate magnate Peter Rummell in a battle royale for the title of Biggest Cheese of the Bold City. If wars were won by moustaches alone, clearly Khan’s sweet Sam-Elliottesque handlebars (@KhansStache on Twitter) would be far and away the victor over BabyFace Rummell. Alas, the art of war is a fine one which cannot be triumphed by facial hair alone.

Here’s a rundown of the mêlées thus far: RIVERFRONT REAL ESTATE RAMPAGE: Rummell’s Healthy Town v. Khan’s Shipyards The proximity of these developments inspires visions of King Kong and Godzilla staring each other down from opposing shores. Healthy Town’s 28 acres on the Southbank in Downtown Jacksonville has been approved, while Khan’s grandiose vision for the 48-acre Shipyards lot straight across the St. Johns River, which The Florida TimesUnion hilariously described as “a deformed Tetris piece,” is still in the conceptual phase.

Healthy Town is a strange idea — a mixeduse development for people who want to live a healthy lifestyle (um, hello, it’s called the beach) — but who are we to second-guess the genius behind Disney’s “Celebration”

community? but comm co mmun mm uniit un ity?? Th Thiis is is is tthe he toughest he tough ghes estt to to ccall all … b al u Rummell wins for sheer momentum.

TO RIVAS OR NOT TO RIVAS?: Since 2012, Rummell has famously backed the One Spark festival headed by his de facto protégé, Elton Rivas. Then Khan came roaring on the scene and provided $1.1 million via Stache Investments, to fund Rivas’ business accelerator group, KYN. Alas, a happy threesome was not to be. Last fall, Khan pulled KYN’s funding in a messy breakup that ended with KYN going belly-up. But with One Spark’s sizzle turning to an awkward fizzle, where does the Rivas love lie? Let’s give this one to Khan for getting out while the getting was good.

PICK YOUR PAC PONY: This spring’s mayoral race between Alvin Brown and Lenny Curry was another opportunity for these big hitters to swing for the fences. The T-U has reported that Khan donated $200,000 to Brown’s “Taking Jacksonville to the Next Level”; Rummell gave $245,000 to Curry’s “Together for a Greater Jacksonville.” Clearly, Rummell wins. Just like Mayor Curry.

BONUS ROUND: Pigskin Pummeling. Billionaire Khan may have taken the Jaguars to a whole new level of ginormous high-definition screens and swimming sunbathers, but Rummell has the street cred of being co-chairman of the committee that brought Super Bowl XXXIX to Jacksonville in 2005, making the Bold City the smallest to ever host the big game. OK, seriously, there is no competition. Shad Khan owns the freaking Jaguars. He wins. Moustaches down.

Looks like it’s a tie, folks. Sound off with a Letter to the Editor — we loooovvveee your letters — and tell us who you think deserves to be named Biggest Cheese of the Bold City.

Claire Goforth mail@folioweekly.co AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 13

INSIDE

[18] AWESOME SAUCE

BY KEITH MARKS Local HOT SAUCE PRODUCERS are turning up the heat for Northeast Florida foodies

[26] GIVE THE CROWD WHAT THEY WANT

BY BARBARA BENT Concessions at EVERBANK FIELD try to keep pace with national food trends

[30] THE DOMAIN OF THE SANDWICH

BY REBECCA GIBSON Who rules the LUNCHTIME STAPLE around Jacksonville’s Downtown?

BARBECUE RESTAURANTS & STEAKHOUSES

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 1307 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

GATORS BBQ 8083 Baymar St., Westside, 683-4941, gatorsbbq.net Gators serves award-winning barbecue pork, chicken, ribs, turkey and sausage. • $ BW K TO L D Mon.-Sat. HARMONIOUS MONKS 10550 Old St. Augustine Rd., Ste. 30, Mandarin, 880-3040, harmoniousmonks.net 320 First St. N., Jax Beach, 372-0815 The American-style steakhouse offers a 9-oz. choice Angus centercut filet with gorgonzola shiitake mushroom sauce, 8-oz. gourmet burgers, fall-off-the-bone ribs, wraps and sandwiches. The World’s Most Talented Waitstaff every Fri. & Sat. • $$ FB K L D Mon.-Sat. JACK’S BBQ 691 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 460-8100 The place has lured regulars and locals for more than six decades.

The bait? A real pit barbecue, Tiki bar, large wood deck, stage and a small swimming pool. Live music Thur.-Sat. A DJ spins every Wed.

The team at Olio Downtown makes their signature sandwiches available for breakfast and lunch.

705 S. Lane Ave., Westside, 783-1404, bonosbarbq.com Bono’s has been slow-cooking all manner of meats, and serving them with tangy sauces, for more than 60 years. Folio Weekly readers have repeatedly picked Bono’s as their favorite barbecue joint in our annual Best of Jax poll, with baby back ribs, barbecue salad and chicken breast sandwiches among the faves. • $ FB K TO L D Daily CHARLIE’S DINER 8929 Philips Hwy., Southside, 363-0990 “Country boy” style breakfast and lunch items. The morning side order selection is massive. Lunch includes big salads and specials.

• $ B L Mon.-Sat. COTTEN’S BAR-B-QUE 2048 Rogero Rd., Arlington, 743-1233 Fred Cotten Jr. has been offering his pit-cooked barbecue for more than 25 years. The sauces are made in-house from original recipes.

Cotten’s has moderately priced items in a casual atmosphere. • $ K TO L D Mon.-Sat. CROSS CREEK 850 S. Lane Ave., Westside, 783-9579, crosscreeksteakhouse.com Steaks, ribs, burgers, Mayport shrimp, sandwiches, combos and from the pit: brisket, chicken, pork, turkey and “burnt ends” (our favorite!). • $$ FB L D Daily EMPEROR’S GENTLEMAN’S CLUB 4923 University Blvd. W., Lakewood, 739-6966 The upscale steakhouse has steaks, burgers, seafood and wings. • $$ FB L D Daily ESPETO BRAZILIAN STEAK HOUSE 1396 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 388-4884, espetosteakhouse.com Newly relocated to the beach, this churrascaria (Portuguese for steakhouse) is the only Brazilian steakhouse in town. It features gauchos who carve the meat onto your plate from their serving tables. • $$$ FB D Tue.-Sun.

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• $ FB TO L D Daily JENKINS QUALITY BARBECUE 2025 Emerson St., Lakewood, 346-3770 830 N. Pearl St., Downtown, 353-6388 5945 New Kings Rd., Northside, 765-8515, jenkinsqualitybarbecue.com For nearly 60 years now, family-owned Jenkins Quality Barbecue has served some of the best down-home barbecue around. Slather sauce on a whole smoky chicken or a basket of crinkle-cut French fries. All three Jenkins restaurants have a convenient drive-thru. • $ TO L D Daily MILLHOUSE STEAKHOUSE 1341 Airport Rd., Northside, 741-8722, millhousesteakhouse.com The locally-owned-and-operated steakhouse serves choice steaks from the signature broiler, plus seafood, pasta dishes, Millhouse gorgonzola, and homemade desserts. Live music Tue. and Fri. • $$$ FB K D Nightly MOJO BAR-B-QUE 1607 University Blvd. W., San Jose, 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., Avondale, 381-6670 MOJO KITCHEN BBQ PIT & BLUES BAR 1500 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 247-6636, mojobbq.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The Southern kitchen offers pulled pork and Carolina-style barbecue along with chicken-fried steak and Delta fried catfish. A full bottled beer selection and a full bar are available. Avondale’s Mojo No. 4

also offers shrimp and grits, and specialty cocktails. National and local blues acts perform live at the Jax Beach and Avondale Mojos.

• $$ FB K TO B L D Daily MONROE’S SMOKEHOUSE BAR-B-Q 4838 Highway Ave., Westside, 389-5551 10771 Beach Blvd., Southside, 996-7900, monroessmokehousebbq.com Monroe’s smoked meats include wings, pulled pork, brisket, turkey and ribs. Homestyle sides include green beans, baked beans, macn-cheese and collards. • $$ K TO L Mon.-Sat.; D Fri. THE PIG BAR-B-Q 450102 S.R. 200, Callahan, 879-0101, thepigbarbq.com 14985 Old St. Augustine Rd., Ste. 108, 374-0393 1330 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 170, 213-9744 9760 Lem Turner Rd., 765-4336 5456 Normandy Blvd., 783-1606 11925 Beach Blvd., Ste. 5, 619-0321, thepigbarbq.com The popular fourth-generation barbecue place has been familyowned for 60-plus years, serving all manner of barbecued meats and sides . The signature item is mustard-based “pig sauce.” • $ BW K TO B, L D Daily RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 1201 Riverplace Blvd., Southbank, 396-6200 814 A1A, Ste. 103, Ponte Vedra Beach, 285-0014, ruthschris.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner A consistent BOJ winner for Best Steaks, Ruth’s Chris serves Midwestern custom-aged U.S. prime beef, cooked in 1,800-degree broilers, plus fresh seafood, live Maine lobster and an extensive selection of wines. Reservations suggested. • $$$$ FB D Nightly SHANE’S RIB SHACK 13546 Beach Blvd., Ste. 1, Intracoastal, 992-0130, shanesribshack.com Originating in Georgia, Shane’s has expanded all over the U.S. Burgers, pork, racks of ribs, chicken tenders and wings are served along with beans, fried okra, corn on the cob, collards and Brunswick stew. • $$ K TO L D Daily SMOKIN’ D’S BBQ 110 S.R. 206 E., St. Augustine, 797-2050, smokindbbq.com Ultra-casual, no credit cards, no alcohol, no delivery. There’s take-out — and outside seating on tree stumps. The Beach Basket, with three kinds of barbecued beans, is topped with a pile of your choice of beef brisket, turkey or pork. Serving until the food runs out. • $ L D Daily 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 10840 Harts Rd., Northside, 751-4225 12719 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 220-9499, sonnysbbq.com For more than 30 years, Sonny’s has been a Northeast Florida favorite. The beef, pork, chicken and ribs are cooked in a woodfired pit, and sides include Vidalia onion rings, corn nuggets, potato salad, barbecue beans and coleslaw. All-you-can-eat specials daily. • $ BW K TO L D Daily THE STEAKHOUSE @ GOLD CLUB 320 Gen. Doolittle Dr., Regency, 645-5500, jacksonvillegoldclub.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Gold Club offers daily lunch and dinner specials, as well as free happy hour buffets on Thur. and Fri. • $$$ FB L D Daily STICKY FINGERS 8129 Point Meadows Way, Baymeadows, 493-7427 13150 City Station Dr., Northside, 309-7427, stickyfingers.com A true Memphis-style smokehouse, Sticky Fingers slow-smokes meats over aged hickory wood. The menu includes award-winning ribs, barbecue and rotisserie-smoked chicken. Happy hour weekdays. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily TED’S MONTANA GRILL 10281 Midtown Pkwy., St. Johns Town Center, 998-0010 8635 Blanding Blvd., Westside, 771-1964, tedsmontanagrill.com Modern classic comfort food features fine cuts of bison: signature steaks, award-winning gourmet burgers served in a sophisticated atmosphere. Chef-inspired items include crab cakes, cedar-plank salmon, fresh vegetables, desserts. Private label Bison Ridge wines served. • $$$ FB K TO L D Daily

TEXAS ROADHOUSE 550 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 213-1000, texasroadhouse.com Texas Roadhouse specializes in steaks and ribs, seafood and chops. The atmosphere’s casual and family-friendly.

Daily specials, daily happy hour, ice-cold beer and legendary margaritas. • $ FB L D Daily III FORKS PRIME STEAKHOUSE 9822 Tapestry Park Circle, Ste. 111, 928-9277, iiiforks.com III Forks offers a contemporary evolution of the classic steakhouse, updated with a menu featuring USDA prime beef, seafood and local favorites. More than 1,500 wines. Dine indoors or on the patio. • $$$$ FB K D Mon.-Sat. 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 474323 S.R. 200, Yulee, 206-4046 8540 Argyle Forest Blvd., Argyle, 772-7675 950 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 1, Orange Park, 272-1419 226 Solana Rd., Ste. 1, Palm Valley, 280-1110 135 Jenkins St., Ste. 106, St. Augustine Beach, 819-8880 1301 N. Orange Ave., Green Cove Springs, 284-1014 1482 S. Sixth St., Macclenny, 259-5800, woodys.com Woody’s Bar-B-Q has barbecue plates, barbecue salads and popular pulled pork sandwiches. Along with lunch and dinner specials, there are several all-you-can-eat specials. A seniors’ discount is offered 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, Ann O’Malley’s serves a casual menu of soups, salads and sandwiches — favorites include the Reuben and the chicken salad. Dine indoors or on the porch. Irish beers on tap. Open mic every Tue., trivia every Thur., live music weekends. • $ 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 offers traditional burgers and sandwiches plus Irish faves like fish & chips and bangers and mash. More than 70 beers and wines are served, including 10 on draft daily. Live music weekends. Dine indoors or out on the deck. • $$ BW K L D Daily THE BRITISH PUB 213 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 810-5111 The pub 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.

• $$ FB D Nightly CULHANE’S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-9595, culhanesirishpub.com An upscale Irish pub and restaurant owned and managed by four sisters from County Limerick, Ireland, Culhane’s menu includes favorites like shepherd’s pie and corned beef, and their gastropub menu takes customers to new culinary heights. • $$ FB K R Sat. & Sun.; L Fri.-Sun.; D Tue.-Sun. DONOVAN’S IRISH PUB 7440 U.S. 1 N., Ste. 108, St. Augustine, 829-0000, donovansirishpub.com The spot has a mix of classic Irish entrées and traditional American dinners, plus appetizers and pub grub, Irish beers and whiskeys, and HDTVs, pool tables and Wii. • $$ FB K L D Daily FIONN MacCOOL’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT Jax Landing, Ste. 176, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 374-1547, fionnmacs.com The pub offers casual dining with an uptown Irish atmosphere, serving fish and chips, Guinness lamb stew and black-and-tan brownies. Live music daily. • $$ FB K L D Daily THE KING’S HEAD BRITISH PUB 6460 U.S. 1 N., St. Augustine, 823-9787, kingsheadbritishpub.com Owner Ann Dyke and staff serve British draught beers and cider in 20-ounce Imperial pints in an authentic pub. The repeat Best of Jax winner for Best Neighborhood Bar serves Cornish pasties, and fish and chips. It’s north of the airport on U.S. 1; look for the red doubledecker bus in front. • $$ FB K L D Daily

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AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 15

<<< FROM PREVIOUS LYNCH’S IRISH PUB 514 N. First St., Jax Beach, 249-5181, lynchirishpub.com A Beaches landmark, Lynch’s serves a fresh “green” menu: corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips. There are 50 imported and domestic draft beers on tap. Live music every night.

• $$ FB L D Daily MEEHAN’S IRISH PUB & SEAFOOD HOUSE 20 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, 810-1923, meehansirishpub.com The pub, just south of the old fort, has burgers, traditional pub fare, seafood and a raw bar, along with signature dishes including steak O’Shay’s, Dubliner chicken and Irish Benedict. • $$$ FB K Daily MULLIGANS PUB 45 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, 285-1506, mulliganspubpontevedra.com The Irish pub, at Hilton Garden Inn, offers a variety of favorites and Irish dishes. A full bar includes Guinness. • $$ FB B L D Daily O’BROTHERS IRISH PUB 1521 Margaret St., Riverside, 854-9300, obrothersirishpub.com The restaurant has traditional Irish fare like shepherd’s pie with Stilton crust, Guinness mac-n-cheese and, of course, fish-n-chips.

Outdoor patio dining available. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily

CAFÉS, DELIS & SANDWICH SPOTS

ADAMS STREET DELI & GRILL 126 W. Adams St., Downtown, 475-1400 The lunch spot serves wraps, including grilled chicken, and salads, including Greek salad. • $ L Mon.-Fri. AKEL’S DELICATESSEN 21 W. Church St., Downtown, 665-7324 245 Riverside Ave., 791-3336 12926 Gran Bay Pkwy. W., Mandarin, 880-2008, akelsdeli.com 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, sides, desserts and vegetarian dishes. There’s a full breakfast menu, too. • $ K TO B L Mon.-Fri. THE AMERICAN GRILL Jax Landing, Ste. 201, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 353-7522 Traditional fare: chicken pot pie, burgers, steaks, ribs, pizza, pasta dishes, sandwiches, and vegetarian items. • $$ FB L D Daily ANCIENT CITY SUBS 8060 Philips Hwy., Ste. 207, Baymeadows, 446-9988, ancientcitysubs.com Locally owned-and-operated by Andy and Rhonna Rockwell, this clean, St. Augustine-themed sandwich shop serves gourmet subs — toasted, pressed or cold — and salads. • $ K TO L D Mon.-Fri.; L Sat. ARDEN’S KAFÉ & KATERING 4555 St. Johns Ave., Ste. 3, Ortega, 240-1404, ardens-kafe-and-katering.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner From gourmet to Cajun, Chef Arden deSaussure can create it, using fresh ingredients, including local seafood, veggies and meats.

Something new: Friday night seafood buffet and hot wing bar. • $$ TO B Sat.; L Sun.-Fri. THE ATRIUM CAFÉ 1 Independent Dr., Ste. 100, 634-1811, jaxatriumcafe.com Located at Independent Square, Atrium Café has hot entrées and traditional sandwiches, including a buffalo chicken sandwich. Dine outside, inside or take it to go. • $ TO B L Mon.-Fri. BAGEL LOVE 4114 Herschel St., Ste. 121, Avondale, 634-7253, bagellovejax.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The comfy locally-owned-and-operated spot offers Northern-style bagels, a variety of cream cheeses, sandwiches, wraps, subs and bakery items. Fresh-squeezed lemonade and coffees and teas. Free WiFi. • $ K TO B L Daily BAGEL WORLD 2202 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 246-9988 The cozy little place offers a breakfast special (eggs, ham and cheese) and a variety of coffees and juices. And, of course, bagels.

• $ TO B L Daily BAYARD CAFE 12525 Philips Hwy., Ste. 201, Bayard, 551-3026, bayardcafe. tripod.com The casual, family-owned spot serves homemade-style breakfast all day, plus soups, barbecue and daily specials, desserts, lattes and espressos. • $ K TO B L Daily THE BISTRO AT CULINARY OUTFITTERS 9 S. Dixie Hwy., St. Augustine, 829-2727, culinaryoutfitters.org The Bistro is where locals lunch on crab cakes, chicken burritos, hamburgers, wraps, salads and soups, each dish made with fresh ingredients. • $$ BW TO L Mon.-Fri. BLUE BOY SANDWICH SHOP 6514 Norwood Ave., Northside, 768-9791 5535 Ft. Caroline Rd., Arlington, 743-3515 421 N. Laura St., Downtown, 355-6767, blueboysandwiches.com Breakfast and lunch since 1973. Breads are made onsite, as well as subs, camels, salads and desserts. • $ TO B L Mon.-Sat. BONGIORNO’S PIZZERIA & PHILLY STEAK SHOP 2294 Mayport Rd., Atlantic Beach, 246-3278, bongiornossteakshop.com Jeff and Deanna Bongiorno of South Philly have brought the Northeast to Jax – the Amoroso rolls are flown in from Philly and the chipped ribeye comes from South Jersey. Now serving authentic New York-style pizza along with sandwich choices, wraps, burgers and dogs. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily

16 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

BRIGHT MORNINGS BISTRO & CAFE 105 Third St. S., Fernandina Beach, 491-1771, brightmorningscafe.com The small café, hidden behind Amelia SanJon Gallery, serves breakfast sandwiches and bowls, burgers, salads, business lunches, sandwiches. Indoor and outdoor dining; dog-friendly backyard. • $ TO B R L Daily THE CAFE AT THE CUMMER The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, 829 Riverside Ave., 356-6857, cummer.org 2014 Best of Jax Winner Light lunch, quick bites, beer, wine, locally roasted coffee and espresso-based beverages, homemade soups, sandwiches, gourmet desserts and daily specials. Dine indoors or out in the museum’s beautiful gardens. • $ BW K L D Tue.; L Wed.-Sun. CAFÉ EXPRESS 1706 Southside Blvd., Arlington, 724-3997, cafeexpress.us The cozy café offers hot and cold sandwiches as well as breakfast dishes. The homemade potato chips are a specialty. • $ TO B L Mon.-Sat. CAFÉ KARIBO 27 N. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 277-5269, cafekaribo.com Housed in a historic building in downtown Fernandina, family-owned Café Karibo serves worldly taste fare, including made-from-scratch dressings, sauces, salads and desserts, in support of local purveyors and sourcing fresh greens, veggies and seafood. Dine inside or al fresco out under the oak-shaded patio. The microbrew Karibrew Pub offers beer brewed onsite, imports and full bar. Live music Fri.-Sun. • $$ FB K TO R, Sun.; L Daily, D Tue.-Sun. in season CHAMBLIN’S UPTOWN 215 N. Laura St., Downtown, 674-0870, chamblinbookmine.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Breakfast sandwiches made with fresh Healthy Bagel bagels and croissants, unique lunch wraps, homemade soups, salads, desserts, weekly specials. Vegan/vegetarian fare, too. • $ BW TO B L Daily CLARA’S TIDBITS RESTAURANT 1076 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 396-0528, tidbitsfood.com For more than 25 years, Clara’s Tidbits has specialized in good food served in a friendly atmosphere, with popular lunch items like chicken salad and unique avocado sandwiches. Delivery available.

• $ TO L Mon.-Fri. COOL MOOSE CAFE & BISTRO 2708 Park St., Riverside, 381-4242, coolmoosecafe.net At Park and King, the New England-style café has a full breakfast menu, classic sandwiches, wraps and soups, and brunch all day Sunday. Beer and an extensive gourmet coffee menu available. • $$ BW R L D Tue.-Sun. CURRENTS COFFEE BAR LOUNGE 225 E. Coastline Dr., Northbank, 588-1234, jacksonvillehyatt.com In the main lobby of the Hyatt Regency Riverfront, Currents offers appetizers, café cuisine, specialty desserts, wireless Internet access and plasma TVs. • $$ FB B L D Daily DIANE’S NEW DAWN 110 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 824-1337, dianesnaturalmarket.com The cafe in the health food store serves everything made-to-order using organic ingredients. Sandwiches include avocado, peanut butter with honey, falafel, hummus, tofu salad and a veggie burger.

Smoothies and fresh juices available. • $$ TO L Mon.-Sat. DOS COFFEE & WINE 300 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 342-2421, dosbar.com Industrial chic coffee and wine bar has handcrafted pour-overs and beans from Covina Roastery. Pressed sandwiches, farm fresh salads and build-your-own cheese boards. • $$ BW B L Daily EINSTEIN BROS. BAGELS 2800 University Blvd. N., Arlington, 256-7539 1661 Riverside Blvd., Ste. 130, 5 Points, 354-0991 225 E. Coastline Dr., Downtown, 634-4579, einsteinbros.com With more than 25 varieties of fresh-baked-in-store bagels, Einstein Bros. has breakfast covered. Throw in some egg sandwiches, paninis and wraps, and you’re done. Lunch offers healthful cold sandwiches, melts, soups and salads. Coffees, smoothies and sweet treats complete the menu. • $ TO B L Mon.-Fri. ELIZABETH’S CAFÉ 1500 Sawgrass Village Dr., Ponte Vedra, 543-7677 Serving a full breakfast menu and lunch items, Elizabeth’s Cafe in Sawgrass Village specializes in scrambled eggs with Nova Scotia salmon and onions, deli-style sandwiches and espresso drinks.

Outside dining is available. • $ K TO B L Daily FIRST COAST DELI & GRILL 6082 St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 733-7477 Traditional diner fare: oversized pancakes and bacon, sandwiches, salads and burgers. • $ K TO B L Daily FLY BY CAFÉ 4900 U.S. 1 N., St. Augustine, 824-3494 Located at St. Johns County airport, Fly By has signature soups, specialty burgers and chicken sandwiches. • $ BW K TO B L D Daily THE GALLERY CAFE 1974 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 825-9944, gallerycafestaug.com The cozy spot offers creative sandwiches, salads, soups, organic fair-trade coffees, fresh pastries and New York-style bagels. • $ BW B L Daily; D Wed.-Fri. GREAT HARVEST BREAD CO. 822 Sadler Rd., Fernandina Beach, 277-4747, greatharvestamelia.com Handcrafted sandwiches include turkey and Swiss, Lighthouse chicken salad and Bleu roast beef, presented on made-right-there breads, so you know it’s fresh. • $$ TO B L D Daily HOT SHOT BAKERY & CAFE 8 Granada St., St. Augustine, 824-7898, hotshotbakery.com Hot Shot offers freshly baked items, coffees and handcrafted breakfast and lunch sandwiches as well as Datil B. Good hot sauces and pepper products. • $ TO B L Daily JASON’S DELI 4375 Southside Blvd., Ste. 15, 620-0707 2230 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 246-7585 515 Rutile Dr., Ponte Vedra, 543-9966, jasonsdeli.com Fresh, thick deli sandwiches along with soups, salads and super spuds. The signature sandwich is a New Orleans-style muffalatta sandwich. There’s also a salad bar with more than 33 choices and free ice cream. • $$ BW K TO B L D Daily

The Floridian serves up innovative Southern fare using locally sourced ingredients.

JULIE’S CAFE 5100 Sunbeam Rd., Ste. 4, Mandarin, 268-8121, juliescafeofjax.com The family-owned café serves American and Middle Eastern dishes.

Dine indoors or outside. • $ K TO B L Mon.-Fri. KELLEY’S COURTYARD CAFÉ 19 S. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 432-8213, kelleyscourtyardcafe.com In the heart of Fernandina Beach’s historic district, family-ownedand-operated Kelley’s Café serves sandwiches, wraps, soups and salads, vegetarian options and down-home comfort food faves, like fried green tomatoes. • $ BW K L D Mon.-Sat. KITCHEN KETTLE DELI 4251 Lenox Ave., Ste. 7, Westside, 387-8400 Sporting Western-themed décor, the small, family-owned business serves homestyle favorites. Chef Kim Wright serves daily specials including chicken salad, burgers and potato salad. • $ TO L Mon.-Fri. LEGENDS SANDWICH SHOP 11230 New Berlin Rd., Northside, 696-6156 Chef-owned-and-operated. Renowned giant fried pork tenderloin originated, and there’s plenty of regular-size dishes, too. • $ TO B L Mon.-Fri. LITTLE JOE’S CAFÉ 245 Riverside Ave., Ste. 195, 791-3336 The riverview café in Raymond James Building serves breakfast and lunch in a casual atmosphere. Fresh soups, salads and signature salad dressings round out the New York-style deli experience. • $ TO B L Mon.-Fri. LULI’S CAFÉ & MORE 571 Market St., St. Augustine, 824-5280, luliscupcakes.com Quiche, soups, chicken/tuna salad, breakfast sandwiches, grilled cheese and Cubans, plus cupcakes. • $ TO B L D Mon.-Sat. LUVBERRY CAFE 32 St. George St., St. Augustine, 217-4206 Fresh, locally roasted Bold Bean brand coffees are served here, along with organic and fair-trade coffees and espresso, fat-free frozen yogurt, and 16 Blue Bell ice cream flavors. • $ K TO Daily MAPLE STREET BISCUIT COMPANY 2004 San Marco Blvd., 398-1004 410 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 853-5688 1171 Edgewood Ave. S., Murray Hill, 518-4907, maplestreetbiscuits.com Combine Southern comfort food — pulled pork, fried chicken, bacon — with options like goat cheese, dill pickles, pepper jelly, collards, sausage gravy, fried eggs, put them in a flaky, fresh biscuit and top with various sauces, gravies and dressings. Sides, coffee and soda, too. • $ TO B L Mon.-Sat.; D Fri. & Sat. MARCHÉ BURETTE DELI 39 Beach Lagoon Rd., Amelia Island, 261-6161, omnihotels.com The old-fashioned gourmet food market and deli, in The Spa & Shops at Omni Amelia Island Plantation, offers a Continental breakfast; lunch features flatbreads. • $$$ BW K TO L D Daily OLIO MARKET 301 E. Bay St., Downtown, 356-7100, oliomarket.com A foodie favorite, Olio serves made-from-scratch soups, salads and sandwiches. They even cure their own bacon and pickle their own pickles. It’s home to the duck grilled cheese, seen on Travel Channel’s Best Sandwich in America. Open late for First Wednesday Art Walk. $$ BW TO B R L Mon.-Fri; D Fri.-Sat. 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. At night, there’s live music. • $ FB B L D Daily PINEGROVE MEAT MARKET & DELI 1511 Pine Grove Ave., Avondale, 389-8655, pinegrovemarket.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner For more than 40 years, Pinegrove has been serving hearty breakfasts and lunches featuring Cuban sandwiches, burgers, subs, wraps and homemade chicken salad in a family atmosphere. The onsite butcher shop sells USDA choice prime aged beef cut to order. Craft beers are available. Fish fry Fri. and Sat. • $ BW TO B L D Mon.-Sat. THE PITA PIT 1810 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 5, Fleming Island, 579-4930 1 UNF Dr., Bldg. 16, Southside, 620-2543 500 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 685-4567

491 W. Forsyth St., Downtown, 699-7482, pitapitusa.com The upbeat restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner all day. All of the fresh ingredients are available in a pita or a salad. All-natural smoothies are also served. • $ TO B L D Daily PLAYERS CAFÉ 262 Solana Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach, 273-5595 Owner Mike Furgal runs a family-friendly, golf-themed restaurant, serving fresh grouper subs, Cuban sandwiches and Philly cheesesteaks. • $ B L Daily POINTE RESTAURANT 98 S. Fletcher Ave., Amelia Island, 277-4851, elizabethpointelodge.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Award-winning B&B Elizabeth Pointe Lodge offers elegant seaside dining, now open to the public. Dine indoors or outside. There’s a hot buffet breakfast daily and a full lunch menu. Homestyle soups, specialty sandwiches, salads, yummy desserts and wines and beers.

• $$$ BW K B L Daily RUSS-DOE’S SANDWICH SHOP 1745 E. Church St., Downtown, 353-9065 Talleyrand sandwich shop offers breakfast items, plus classic American lunch fare, like PB&J, egg salad, and pimento cheese sandwiches. Dine outside at picnic tables on the decks. • $ TO B L Mon.-Fri. SCHMAGEL’S BAGELS 1835 U.S. 1 S., Ste. 139, 823-1311 69 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 824-4444, schmagelsbagel.com Fast and affordable, all meals are prepared with Boar’s Head meats, local produce, kosher Norwegian lox and panini. Outdoor dining. • $ TO B R L Daily THE SECRET GARDEN CAFÉ 10095 Beach Blvd., Ste. 600, Southside, 645-0859, secretgardencafe.net The café serves homestyle breakfast and lunch in a gothic garden setting. Southern comfort menu items include eggs Benedict, fried green tomatoes, meatloaf and made-from-scratch desserts. Local art is displayed. • $$ BW K TO B L Daily THE SHEIK SANDWICHES AND SUBS 9720 Atlantic Blvd., Regency, 721-2660 2708 N. Main St., Northside, 353-8181 7361 103rd St., Westside, 778-4805 5172 Normandy Blvd., Westside, 786-7641 1994 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 276-2677 Family-owned-and-operated, The Sheik restaurants have served Northeast Florida for more than 40 years, offering a full breakfast — from pitas to country plates — and an extensive lunch menu. • $ TO B L D Mon.-Sat. SNACSHACK 179 College Dr., Ste. 19, Orange Park, 682-7622, snacshack.menu The new bakery and café offers bagels, muffins, breads, cookies, brownies and snack treats. • $$ K BW TO B, L & D Daily SUN DELI 1011 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 270-1040, sundelisubs.com Traditional Reubens, triple-decker and chicken club, as well as build-your-own from corned beef, salami, pastrami, turkey and liverwurst. Signature subs include the Radical Side (tuna salad, egg salad, American cheese, lettuce, tomato) or 9.0 (Phillystyle steak, American cheese, bacon, pepperoni, blackened seasoning). • $ TO L Mon.-Sat. SURFWICHES SANDWICH SHOP 1537 Penman Rd., Jax Beach, 241-6996, surfwiches.com The craft sandwich shop new to Jax Beach boasts Yankee-style steak sandwiches and hoagies. All sandwiches are made to order. • $ BW TO K L D Daily TIDBITS EXPRESS 8535 Baymeadows Rd., 516-4144, clarastidbits.com The little spot serves the same lunch items as Tidbits. Place your order at a terminal — but there are real people there in case you need assistance. • $ TO L Mon.-Sat. UPTOWN KITCHEN & BAR 1303 Main St. N., Springfield, 355-0734, uptownmarketjax.com In the 1300 Building at the corner of Third and Main. Fresh quality fare created with the same élan that rules at Burrito Gallery.

Innovative breakfast, lunch and dinner farm-to-table selections and creative daily specials. • $$ BW TO B L Daily

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AWESOME SAUCE

GIVE THE CROWD WHAT THEY WANT

LOCAL HOT SAUCE PRODUCERS ARE TURNING UP THE HEAT FOR NORTHEAST FLORIDA FOODIES

CONCESSIONS C ONCESSIONS A AT T EVERBANK FIELD TRY TO KEEP PACE WITH NATIONAL FOOD TRENDS BID FAREWELL TO STADIUM WEENIES, SOGGY BOILED PEANUTS, AND THE HARROWING TASK OF FLAGGING DOWN THE VENDOR for a sticky mess of cotton candy

on a steamy Sunday in Northeast Florida.

Nowadays, EverBank Field feeds fans a plethora of options sure to satisfy. Where else can you sip a local brew while perusing grub options from local food trucks parked onsite? Alas, the stadium that brought you mammoth video boards and even swimming pools still has tricks up its sleeve.

Ryan Prep, general manager at Ovations, food service provider at EverBank Field’s main concourses, spoke to Folio Weekly about what works at Jags games as well as new options for fans. Bento Café will offer teriyaki chicken rice bowls in Section 141, and local barbecue chain, Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, will bring its homestyle cookin’ to the masses. A great hit these past couple of seasons has been Food Truck Alley, where about 20 area food trucks line up to sell their noshes to hungry spectators.

Though it is a departure from tradition, EverBank’s food transition is part of a national trend.

As a restaurants and their customers have grown more partial to food that is sourced from local farms and incorporates local flavors, stadiums and ballparks across the U.S. have been eager to jump on the latest food bandwagon. By deviating from fast-food chains on game day, fans can enjoy regional favorites that, even if they aren’t so healthy, are fresher and more palatable than your average processed nacho cheese goo.

Such food trends show up in stadiums and ballparks across the country, according to Men’s Health and Forbes. The magazines describe destinations such as Minute Maid Park in Houston that offer the fresh Tex Mex specialties of a celebrity chef for Astros fans. They also elaborate on other healthful facts, such as how ballparks now use oil with no transfats to fry their various delicacies. However, the fare doesn’t always have to be healthy for fans to embrace new food movements — it’s just got to be a local trademark.

This local food movement goes beyond the concern for public health (though glutenfree hot dogs and other snacks are available at EverBank). It’s about staying culturally relevant in all areas of the game day experience, and the vittles are a vital component.

“We are evolving to trends in the food and beverage industry,” says Prep, “we don’t want to stay stagnant.”

The changes in game day diets have struck gold in Duval, calling attention to local 18 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

Whether at Burrito Gallery’s East Touchdown Club concession or among the fans in the stands, kitchen manager Anton Van Buskirk and general manager Paul Shockey offer a superior gameday dining experience.

flavors from hot spots around town, such as Burrito Gallery.

The Jaguars approached Burrito Gallery seven or eight years ago to ask if the local restaurant would be a team sponsor. The opportunity to use the logo and sell food at the games was an exciting one, according to Burrito Gallery co-founder and general manager Paul Shockey.

When the restaurant started doing business with the Jags, it was a break-even deal. Even though BG wasn’t making money at the start, it was all about “being there, having the exposure. We were excited about that option,” says Shockey.

Burrito Gallery gets involved with ingame promotions as well, such as giving out free burrito vouchers or offering BG T-shirts with the Jags logo, all wrapped up in foil to look like a burrito.

And Burrito Gallery mascot Uncle Sanchez says the restaurant has gone to great lengths to be part of the game day atmosphere, even after the game’s over.

“We used to not be open Sundays, but now we are, so on game day if fans don’t want to wait around in traffic after, they can pull in for a drink and something to nibble on.”

By teaming with Ovations, BG was able to customize its own concourse location and prep and serve the food like they do in the brick-and-mortar spots. Over the years, BG has been able to turn a profit from this deal at EverBank, one burrito at a time.

The kitchen at EverBank cranks out crowdpleasers like chicken and steak quesadillas, burritos, and nachos.

“We try to keep it simple,” says Shockey, “the food has to be the same as when you walk in the door of Burrito Gallery.”

Last year, the restaurant struck a deal with Levy, the food service provider for club seating and suites, to put an Uptown Kitchen (the Springfield fave) in the stadium’s Touchdown Club. With a continued emphasis on freshness like its neighbor BG, this newer spot keeps its menu simple with paninis, salads, and a dank Cuban sandwich.

According to Shockey, Uptown Kitchen’s Chef Eddy is currently concocting new menu items for the 2015 season.

Barbara Bent mail@folioweekly.com

BOUTIQUE HOT SAUCE PRODUCERS ARE CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE OF THE INDUSTRY, tempting palates through their own combinations of heat and flavor. No longer are companies restricted to one style of hot sauce; many infuse exotic ingredients like tamarind, shallots, mangos, tequila, blueberries.

The hot sauce business is booming nationwide. The yearly Scovie Awards (named after the chili pepper heat scale invented in 1912 by pharmacologist Wilbur Scoville) which take place in Albuquerque, New Mexico bring together nearly 100 professional judges to rank and rate competitors in the hot sauce market.

Locally, there are a handful of small companies working to put Northeast Florida on the Scovie map.

Evil Seed Hot Sauce began in 2012 and they have already made a huge impact with several award-winning hot sauces. Evil Seed’s sauces have been featured on The Food Network, mentioned in The New York Times, and written about in The Huffington Post.

Some of Evil Seed’s flagship sauces include the world’s first pure black sauce, the “Big Evil Bacon BBQ” sauce, and their “Mighty Monsters & Mortal Men” which is a Blueberry Mango Hot Sauce containing the world’s hottest pepper, the Carolina Reaper.

Evil Seed’s motto, “Live Good. Eat Evil,” is a tongue-in-cheek nod to the inner heavy metal head in all of us. Co-owner Patrick McGill with his big beard, dark sunglasses, and occasional devil outfit lends his image to the brand’s marketing cause.

“We want people to laugh with us as they repeat the name … and we relish the chance to tell them of the benefits of Hot Sauce & spicy foods,” says McGill. “We live by our motto because food, like life, should be spiced up, and enjoyed to the fullest. We like people to know that we don’t make sauces hot, just for the sake of being hot, we want you to enjoy your meal, with some added heat.”

B and D Sauce Company takes a grassroots approach to creating hot sauce — they’re growing their own specialty peppers called Bahamian Bird Peppers. Inspired by the food and flavors they experienced on a vacation in the Bahamas, co-owners Danny Colon and Barry Skitsko tested their green thumbs and grew a small batch of the peppers. The pair then hand-funneled their harvest to make a small batch of hot sauce. The response was

“Food, like life, should be spiced up,” says Patrick McGill, co-owner of Evil Seed Hot Sauce.

favorable, so now they’re growing an acre of peppers that will be ready for harvest and production in October.

In addition to growing their own peppers, Colon and Skitsko insist on fermenting the peppers in ceramic crock pots for a month to extract maximum flavor before blending with ingredients and apple cider vinegar. The uniqueness of pepper and process make a difference.

“Most artisan hot sauces, for the most part, are pretty different,” says Danny Colon. “The pepper that we are using is very labor intensive so it’s pretty hard to find. There are not many hot sauces made with it. Nothing against the [corporate hot sauces], but anyone who asks for hot sauce at a restaurant or for dinner is not looking for the corporate sauces — they’re looking for something unique.”

B and H’s flagship recipe “Batch #5” is crafted for more of the general hot sauce enthusiast. But, for heat enthusiasts, a “XXX” version of the batch is in the works that will have approximately three times the amount of heat.

A staple condiment at many Northeast Florida diners, Cowgill’s Hot Sauce keeps it in the family. “Big D” Danny Cowgill and his wife, Brenda are the patriarch and matriarch of the Cowgill’s Hot Sauce brand and legends of the Palm Valley area. Originally the house hot sauce for the Palm Valley Fish Camp, the demand for Cowgill’s soon grew beyond the demand of the restaurant. The company has grown into a full-fledged family operation as the next generation of Cowgill sons and cousins have joined in the family trade. Cowgill’s flagship recipe is a datil pepper sauce, but they’ve expanded their line with a habanero, a datil mustard, and jalapeño hot sauces.

As Northeast Florida continues to cultivate its foodie culture, these hot sauce companies, as well as those coming onto the market, stand a good shot of becoming staples in local kitchens and beyond.

For more information on any of these hot sauces, visit their websites: evilseedsauces.com banddsauceco.com cowgillshotsauce.com Keith Marks mail@folioweekly.com

<<< FROM PREVIOUS VILLAGE BREAD CAFE Jax Landing, Ste. 130, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 683-7244 5215 Philips Hwy., Southside, 732-2261 10111 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 262-0740, villagebreadcafe.com These locally owned restaurants offer breakfast (featuring a variety of bagels and omelets), and lunch (featuring sandwiches on homestyle bread, big salads, pizzas and pastries).

• $ TO B L Mon.-Fri. WHITEWAY DELICATESSEN 1237 King St., Riverside, 389-0355 The King Street mainstay has an extensive sandwich selection, including some items you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. It’s also a good spot to catch current and former politicos talking about the city’s future over tabouli or ham sandwiches. • $ TO B L Mon.-Fri.

CASUAL SPOTS & JOINTS

ALL AMERICAN HOT DOG 10365 Beach Blvd., Southside, 641-5794, allamericanhotdog.com The family-owned casual spot has been around since 1967, offering all-beef hot dogs dressed up with homestyle toppings, as well as steak pitas, burgers and subs. • $ K TO L D Mon.-Sat. ANDY’S FARMERS MARKET GRILL 1810 W. Beaver St., Jacksonville, 354-2821, jaxfarmersmarket.com Andy’s has the freshest ingredients — it’s smack dab amid the landmark Jacksonville Farmers Market, with more than 75 years of offering local, regional and international produce. The spot here, at the edge of Urban Core, serves breakfast items, sandwiches, snacks and beverages. • $ B L D Mon.-Sat.

Dollar Midway has the latest electronic interactive games and simulators plus traditional faves. • $$ FB K L D Daily DEERWOOD BISTRO 8221 Southside Blvd., Ste. 24, Deerwood, 527-3451, deerwoodbistro.com Casual bistro serves familiar fare like baguettes, paninis, burgers, as well as entrées, seafood and desserts. $$ BW K TO B L D Daily DELICOMB DELICATESSEN & ESPRESSO BAR 102 Sixth Ave. N., Jax Beach, 372-4192, delicomb.com The folks at this newly relocated family-owned-and-operated deli make everything with natural and organic ingredients — no hydrogenated oils or high-fructose corn syrup. Granola, tuna salad, kimchi, wraps and spicy panini melts are part of the varied menu. Delicomb — just steps from the sand — uses coffees from Strongtree and George Howell Coffee Company. WiFi, too. • $ TO B L Tue.-Sun. D&LP SUBS 1409 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 247-4700, dlpsubs.com The sub place in Jax Beach offers a variety of subs, gourmet salads, wings, pizzas with all the toppings, and pasta dinners. • $ K TO L D Daily FIRST WATCH 544 Marsh Landing Pkwy., Ste. 4, Jax Beach, 834-3789 13470 Beach Blvd., Intracoastal, 223-0909 11111 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 14, Mandarin, 268-8331, firstwatch.com Breakfast has all the faves: French toast, egg dishes, pancakes, sides. Lunch offers sandwiches and salads. • $ K B L Daily FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES 4413 Town Center Pkwy., St. Johns Town Center, 996-6900 9039 Southside Blvd., 538-9100 13760 St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 402-8036 1605 C.R. 220, Ste. 130, Fleming island, 592-4896 3267 Hodges Blvd., Ste. 6, Intracoastal, 992-4680 1910 Wells Rd., Ste. C02D-5, Orange Park, 637-0414 9630 Applecross Rd., Ste. 106, Orange Park, 573-0900 10061 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 493-5414 13249 City Square Dr., River City Marketplace, 751-9711, fiveguys.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Five Guys offers burgers made with fresh ground beef and finished

Black Sheep in Riverside offers rooftop dining, a menu of fresh ingredients, and handcrafted cocktails.

BOLD CITY GRILL 10605 Deerwood Park Blvd., Deerwood, 564-4772 Casual grill has local microbrews on tap with a daily happy hour, plus fresh local seafood, Angus steaks, salads, sandwiches and burgers; flatscreen TVs. • $$ BW K TO B L D Daily BURRITO GALLERY & BAR 21 E. Adams St., Downtown, 598-2922, burritogallery.com BURRITO GALLERY EXPRESS 1333 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 242-8226 2014 Best of Jax Winner Burrito Gallery serves Southwestern cuisine with an emphasis on innovative burritos, including ginger teriyaki tofu and beef barbacoa, as well as wraps and tacos. Local art is displayed, and live music or DJs are on the back deck during Art Walk. The beachy kid sister Burrito Express is mostly take-out, with the same great chow and fast service. • $ BW TO L D Daily BURRITO WORKS TACO SHOP 671 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 217-7451 114 St. George St., St. Augustine, 823-1229, burritoworks.com 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 106 E. Adams St., Downtown, 762-4667 The spot has eats at moderate prices – most less than $10.

Chef-inspired street food includes panko-crusted chicken, burgers, chinois tacos, bahn mi and barbecue. • $ L Tue.-Fri.; D Thur.-Sat. CHOW DOWN ALLEY 14775 Old St. Augustine Rd., Ste. 3, Mandarin, 880-7900, chowdownalley.com Family-operated place serves breakfast sandwiches, burgers, salads and specialty sandwiches. • $ B L Mon.-Fri. CRUISERS GRILL 319 23rd Ave. S. (Pablo Plaza), Jax Beach, 270-0356 5613 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 1, Lakewood, 737-2874 3 St. George St., St. Augustine, 824-6993, cruisersgrill.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Locally owned and operated for more than 16 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 L D Daily DAVE & BUSTER’S 7025 Salisbury Rd. S., Southside, 296-1525, daveandbusters.com The 40,000-square-foot restaurant/entertainment complex includes a dining room for a quiet meal away from the games. D&B’s Million

from a wide selection of toppings, including fried onions, jalapeños or sautéed mushrooms. Fries, kosher hot dogs and soft drinks round out the menu. • $ TO L D Daily THE FLAME BROILER 9822 Tapestry Park Circle, Ste. 103, Southside, 619-2786 7159 Philips Hwy., Ste. 104, Southside, 337-0007 Built on the concept of healthy, inexpensive fast food made with no transfats, MSG, frying, or skin on meat. Fresh veggies, steamed brown or white rice along with grilled beef, chicken and Korean short ribs. • $ K TO L D Mon.-Sat. GREEN ERTH BISTRO 1520 Hendricks Ave., Southbank, 398-9156, green-erth-bistro.com Green Erth serves Cali-inspired fare – featuring vegan and vegetarian – made with natural, organic ingredients, including breakfast items, soups, paninis, sandwiches, hot dishes and desserts. Organic teas, coffees and juices and Intuition Ale Works brews. • $$ BW L Mon.-Fri.; D Tue.-Sat. GREEN TURTLE TAVERN 14 S. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 321-2324 Housed in a historic shotgun shack, this hangout has Chicagostyle Vienna beef hot dogs and pub fare, cold beer and a chill atmosphere. Live music on weekends. • $ FB L D Daily GRINDER’S CAFE 10230 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 8 & 9, Arlington, 725-2712, grindersamdiner.com For more than 20 years, Grinders Café has been serving homestyle veggies, burgers, meatloaf, pork chops, seafood and desserts. • $ K TO B L Daily THE HAPPY TOMATO COURTYARD CAFÉ & BBQ 7 S. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 321-0707, thehappytomatocafe.com The historic district restaurant serves fresh salads, deli sandwiches and barbecue — pulled pork, smoked turkey and ribs — in an easy, laid-back atmosphere. Homemade walnut chocolate chunk cookies are a specialty. • $ BW K TO L Mon.-Sat. HARPOON LOUIE’S 4070 Herschel St., Ste. 8, Avondale, 389-5631, harpoonlouies.net Locally-owned-and-operated, the American pub has been a fixture here for 20-plus years. The menu has half-pound burgers, fish sandwiches and pasta, and happy hour is held during the week. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily

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<<< FROM PREVIOUS HAZEL’S HOT DOGS 2400 N. Ponce de Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, 824-8484 Named for the owners’ Chihuahua, Hazel’s offers a variety of wieners and all the embellishments from its modest digs west of downtown. • $ K TO L D Daily HOT DOG HUT 1439 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 247-3641, hotdoghut.net 2014 Best of Jax Winner The spot serves a vast selection of dogs and sausages, and a variety of toppings, as well as hamburgers, beer-battered onion rings and seasoned French fries. • $ BW TO L Daily THE HOT DOG SPOT & MORE 2771 Monument Rd., Ste. 32, Regency, 646-0050, thehotdogspotjax.com Located in Cobblestone Crossing, Hot Dog Spot serves sausages, all-beef hot dogs, and items like wings, Philly cheesesteaks and burgers, all cooked to order. • $ K TO L Daily JOHNNY’S DELI & GRILLE 474 Riverside Ave., 356-8055 Johnny’s cooks up made-to-order breakfast and lunch fare, including grilled wraps, gyros and grilled chicken salad. • $ TO B L Mon.-Sat. KICKBACKS GASTROPUB/GOOZLEPIPE & GUTTYWORKS 910 King St., Riverside, 388-9551 2014 Best of Jax Winner The neighborhood hot spot serves breakfast, lunch and dinner 20 hours a day, with a full bar that has more than 655 bottled beers and another 84 on tap. An innovative take on standard pub fare is offered. Live music Thur. and Sun.; flatscreen TVs. Happy hour Mon.Fri. Outdoor seating available. • $$ FB K TO B L D Daily LARRY’S GIANT SUBS 1301 Monument Rd., Ste. 5, Arlington, 724-5802 10750 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 14, Intracoastal, 642-6980 3611 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S., Southside, 641-6499 4479 Deerwood Lake Pkwy., Southside, 425-4060 8616 Baymeadows Rd., 739-2498 830 A1A N., Ste. 6, Ponte Vedra, 273-3993 657 N. Third St., Jax Beach, 247-9620 11362 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 3, Mandarin, 674-2945 12001 Lem Turner Rd., Northside, 764-9999 1509 Margaret St., Riverside, 674-2794 7859 Normandy Blvd., Westside, 781-7600 5733 Roosevelt Blvd., Westside, 446-9500 8102 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 1, Westside, 779-1933 700 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 15, Orange Park, 272-3553 1545 C.R. 220, Orange Park, 278-2827 1401 S. Orange Ave., Green Cove Springs, 284-7789 1330 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 276-7370, larryssubs.com With locations all over Northeast Florida, Larry’s Giant Subs is known for piling subs high and serving ’em fast for 33 years. In addition to a wide selection of hot and cold subs, Larry’s has soups and salads.

Some Larry’s serve breakfast. And a new Larry’s opens soon in Fernandina. • $ 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.

The tiny kitchen cranks out daily specials, like jerk fish and mango wrap. • $ BW K L D Tue.-Sun.

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 cheesesteak, fried fish sandwich and the half-pound Moon burger. Live music Mon., Wed., Fri. and Sat. • $ FB D Nightly MOCHA RITA’S 9446 Philips Hwy., Southside, 806-3923, mocharitas.com Sandwiches made with Boar’s Head meats and cheeses. Coffees ground in-house. • $$ BW TO L D Mon.-Sat. MOJO’S TACOS 80 Vilano Rd., Vilano Beach, 827-9977 551 Anastasia Blvd., Anastasia Island, 829-1665, mojos904.com The family-owned spots offer double-decker style tacos, big, tasty burritos and fresh salads. • $ BW TO L D Daily NALU’S TROPICAL TAKE-OUT 1020 Anastasia Blvd., Anastasia Island, 501-9592, nalusstaugustine.com Locals love the taco stand in Surf Station parking lot, which serves fresh island-style beef, chicken, fish and vegetarian tacos and burritos. Pick up to-go or dine outside on picnic tables. • $ TO L D Wed.-Sun. 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 Mon.-Sat. NEWK’S EXPRESS CAFE 9047 Southside Blvd., Ste. 1, 527-2402 14964 Max Leggett Pkwy., Ste. 408, Northside, 751-1261, newks.com Just because the service is lightning-fast doesn’t mean the quality suffers. Newk’s offers made-to-order toasted sandwiches, handtossed salads with homemade-style dressings, plus California-style pizzas and desserts. • $ BW K TO L D Daily ONE TWENTY THREE BURGER HOUSE 123 King St., St. Augustine, 687-2790 The new spot, just opened by the owners of Carmelo’s Pizza down the street, has premium burgers, made with beef sourced from renowned NYC butcher Schweid & Sons. Wood-fired pizzas and an ice cream bar turning out Old World milkshakes, too. Outdoor dining.

• $$ BW K TO L D Daily ORANGE TREE HOT DOGS 8380 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 4, 733-0588 13500 Beach Blvd., Ste. 3, Intracoastal, 551-3661 840 Nautica Dr., River City Marketplace, Ste. 125, 751-6006, orangetreehotdogs.com Known since 1968 for their Orange Frost drink, Orange Tree serves hot dogs — topped with slaw, chili, cheese, onion sauce or sauerkraut — as well as personal pizzas. • $ TO L D Daily PHILLY’S FINEST CHEESESTEAKS & PIZZA 1527 N. Third St., Jax Beach, 241-7188, phillys-finest.com The casual restaurant serves authentic Philly cheesesteaks made with Amoroso’s bread and steaks flown in direct from Philadelphia.

The Ice Bar has a wide selection of beer. Delivery available. $ BW L D Daily RED FROG & McTOAD’S GRUB-N-PUB 5545 A1A S., St. Augustine, 814-8430, redfrogandmctoads.com The casual spot offers award-winning chowder, seafood, chicken, pasta and sandwiches. • $$ FB K TO B L D Daily SANDOLLAR RESTAURANT 9716 Heckscher Dr., Northside, 251-2449, sandollarrestaurantjax.com Right on the banks of the St. Johns, Sandollar offers seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta. Dine inside or on the deck, with a panoramic river view. Seafood buffet every Wed. Live music. • $$ FB R Sun.; L D Daily SANDY BOTTOMS BEACH BAR & GRILL 2910 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, 310-6904, sandybottomsamelia.com Owner Claude Hartley offers seafood, sandwiches and pizzas. Dine indoors or out on the deck overlooking the ocean. Live music every Wed.-Sun.; schedule available online. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily

SCARLETT O’HARA’S 70 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 824-6535, scarlettoharas.net 2014 Best of Jax Winner The restaurant, in a historic 1861 house with an outdoor bar and pub interior, offers pit-smoked barbecue, seafood, burgers, wings, steamed oysters and appetizers. Live music nightly. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily STAN’S SANDWICH & GRILL 1562 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 398-6642 7146 Beach Blvd., Southside, 725-7826 Marking more than 30 years, Stan’s serves breakfast pita sandwiches, omelets and pancakes, hand-pattied burgers, dogs, subs, barbecue and fresh cherry limeade. • $ TO B L Mon.-Sat. SOUPLANTATION & SWEET TOMATOES 1625 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 269-6116 1115 Mary Susan Dr., Regency, 722-9889, souplantation.com The 60-foot salad bar has four types of salads, fresh cut vegetables and deli items, pasta salads and a dozen dressings, plus soups, pizza and desserts. • $ TO L D Daily T.G.I. FRIDAY’S 4409 Southside Blvd., Jacksonville, 997-8700 9400 Atlantic Blvd., Regency, 721-2200 1910 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 215-7030 318 S.R. 312, St. Augustine, 808-8443, tgifridays.com T.G.I.Fridays offers pasta, burgers, steaks and seafood. • $$ FB K L D Daily WIPEOUTS GRILL 1585 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 247-4508, wipeoutsgrill.info The casual, beachy sports place serves burgers, wings, fish tacos and plenty of cold beer — wine, too — in a relaxing atmosphere. • $ FB K TO R, Sun.; L D Daily ZOËS KITCHEN 240 A1A, Ste. 5, Ponte Vedra Beach, 273-1100 1661 Riverside Ave., 355-9637 4624 Town Crossing Dr., Ste. 149, St. Johns Town Center, 641-2130, zoeskitchen.com Original recipes, with Mediterranean and Greek influences, homemade, made-to-order sandwiches, grilled feta sandwiches and whole dinners, all available to go. Desserts include homemade ya-yas (a chocolate sheet cake). • $$ K L D Daily

CHINESE CUISINE

CHUN KING 2771 Monument Rd., Ste. 33, Arlington, 646-1393 From sushi to soup to fried bananas, Chun King offers daily chef specials and all-you-can-eat Mongolian barbecue. Sake and a full menu, including Thai and Japanese dishes, are also served. All food is MSG-free. • $ BW TO L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. GOLDEN CHINA CHINESE RESTAURANT 11112 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 23, Mandarin, 260-8836, goldenchina1.com Mandarin, Szechwan and Cantonese dishes are served along with daily lunch and dinner buffets featuring 26 items on the hot bar and eight items on the 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 has Szechwan, Hunan and Cantonese dishes. • $ TO L D Daily HAWKERS ASIAN STREET FARE 1001 Park St., 5 Points, 508-0342, eathawkers.com 2014 Best of Jax winner The place is based on the variety of fare offered by Asian street vendors, peddling authentic dishes from mobile stalls. The chefs here collected the best hawker recipes to serve under one roof.

• $ BW TO L D Daily JADE’S BISTRO 1484 Sadler Rd., Fernandina Beach, 321-2777, jadesbistrofl.com The menu here is Asian/Thai fusion, and it ranges from

Receive top-notch ervice from the fine staff at Athens Café off Old St. Augustine Road in Mandarin.

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traditional General Tso’s chicken to Thai-style mango prawns. • $$ BW TO L D Daily MAMA FU’S ASIAN HOUSE 11105 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 260-1727, mamafus.com MSG-free pan-Asian cuisine — authentic Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai — is prepared to order in woks with fresh ingredients. Take-out up to 15 minutes before closing.

• $$ FB K TO L D Daily PAGODA CHINESE RESTAURANT 8617 Baymeadows Rd., 731-0880, pagodarestaurant.net Mr. Tam, owner and chef, has been serving customers since 1975. Popular dishes include the seafood combination (lobster, shrimp, scallops and Chinese vegetables) and spicy General Tso chicken. The sweet-and-sour selections are yummy, too. • $ FB TO L D Mon.-Sat. RICE BOWL ASIAN CUISINE 13947 Beach Blvd., Ste. 110, Intracoastal, 992-1388, ricebowlasiancuisine.com A variety of Pan-Asian fare, chef’s specialties including Korean seafood noodles and Kung Pao chicken. • $$ L D Daily WOK N’ ROLL 3791 Palm Valley Rd., Ste. 203, Ponte Vedra, 543-7666, woknrollpontevedra.com The spot in the Valley serves authentic Chinese cuisine made with fresh ingredients. • $ TO L D Daily

Diners can enjoy a variety of Mexican fare at Hola’s in Springfield; don’t forget to try the margarita’s.

COFFEEHOUSES

AMELIA ISLAND COFFEE & ICE CREAM 207 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 321-2111 The spot offers fresh-roasted coffee, cappuccino, frozen drinks, sandwiches, soups and nine flavors of gelato. • $ TO Daily BOLD BEAN COFFEE ROASTERS 869 Stockton St., Stes. 1-2, Riverside, 855-1181 2400 S. Third St., Ste. 201, Jax Beach, boldbeancoffee.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Bold Bean brings a small-batch, artisanal approach to roasting coffee.

Bold Bean has organic and fair trade coffees. • $ BW TO B L Daily BREEZY COFFEE SHOP CAFE 235 Eighth Ave. S., Jax Beach, 241-2211, breezycoffeeshopcafe.com Casual, family-owned coffee shop serves fresh baked goods and a variety of espressos and locally roasted coffees, plus vegan and gluten-free options. Sandwiches, salads, local beer, wine and mimosas, too. Relax indoors or outside. • $ BW K TO B R L Daily BREW FIVE POINTS 1024 Park St., Riverside, 374-5789, brewfivepoints.com Local craft beer, espresso, coffee and wine bar. Rotating drafts, 75+ canned craft beers; sodas, tea. Rotating seasonal menu of waffles, pastries, toasts, desserts to pair with specialty coffees, craft beers.

• $$ BW K B L Daily THE COFFEE GRINDER 9834 Baymeadows Rd., Deerwood Village, 642-7600, thecoffeegrinderjax.com Owner Slava Micukic runs this coffee gallery, which features works by local artists. A full coffee/espresso menu includes iced heath mocha and golden pecan flavored coffee. Beer is served after 7 p.m.

DJs spin Thur., Fri. and Sat. • $ BW 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, build-your-own cheese boards. • $$ BW TO B L D Daily LILLIE’S COFFEE BAR 200 First St., Beaches Town Center, Neptune Beach, 249-2922, lilliescoffeebar.com A beaches landmark, Lillie’s serves locally roasted coffee, eggs, bagels, flatbreads sandwiches, salads and desserts. Dine indoors or out, with patio and courtyard seating. Live music every Fri.-Sat. • $$ BW TO B L D Daily THREE LAYERS CAFE 1602 Walnut St., Springfield, 355-9791, threelayersacoffeehouse.com The coffeehouse offers homemade desserts and pastries, light lunches and ready-to-go bistro salads in a renovated Springfield space. Beer (featuring Bold City Brewery beers) and wine are served. Indoors and courtyard dining. Local artists’ works on the walls. Live music Wed.Sun. The Cellar is an adjacent wine bar. • $$ BW B L D Daily URBAN GRIND COFFEE COMPANY 50 N. Laura St., Downtown, 516-7799 45 W. Bay St., Downtown, 516-7799, urbangrindcoffeeco.com In Bank of America Tower, the original Urban Grind offers a variety of locally roasted whole bean brewed coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies, fresh pastries and bagels with homemade cream cheeses. Lunch includes chicken and tuna salads and sandwiches.

Now open on Bay Street. Free Wi-Fi. • $ B L Mon.-Fri.

DINERS

BEACH DINER 501 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-6500 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 683-0079 880 A1A N., Ponte Vedra, 273-6545 1965 San Marco Blvd., 399-1306, beachdiner.com These locally owned diners have indoor and outdoor seating and Southern comfort menu items including fresh seafood, sandwiches and hot lunch specials. Cooked-to-order breakfast is available all day. • $ K B R L Daily THE BUNNERY BAKERY & CAFÉ 121 St. George St., St. Augustine, 829-6166, bunnerybakeryandcafe.com In the heart of the historic district, the Bunnery offers homestyle almond-chocolate croissants, brownies, cookies, and pastries as well as full Southern breakfasts, sandwiches and espressos. • $ TO B L Daily CARL’S MAIN STREET RESTAURANT 1748 N. Main St., Northside, 647-8043 Carl’s Main Street has been serving homestyle breakfast and lunch fare for a dozen years. There’s an all-you-can-eat Sunday buffet. • $ TO B L Tue.-Sun. CRAZY EGG 954 Edgewood Ave. S., Murray Hill, 524-8711, crazyeggjax.com Breakfast items served till 3 p.m.; lunch includes burgers and

sandwiches, dinner features steaks, prime rib, pork chops and shrimp & grits. An all-you-can-eat sideboard during the week.

Ingredients are fresh, locally available and organic (when possible).

• $ BW TO B L D Wed.-Fri.; B L Sat.-Tue. DEERWOOD DELI & DINER 9934 Old Baymeadows Rd., 641-4877, deerwooddiner.com The landmark celebrates 40-plus years of serving comfort food featuring tried-and-true dishes: sandwiches, Angus burgers, soups, desserts, shakes and tuna, chicken, egg and shrimp salads. Dine inside or out on the patio. • $$ K TO B L Daily DERBY ON PARK 1068 Park St., Riverside, 379-3343, derbyonpark.net Owners Neil and Cheryl Corrado offer an American dining experience with inventive and long-time favorite menu items with a taste of nostalgia, served in an upscale retro atmosphere in historic landmark building. Shrimp & grits, lobster bites, 10-oz. gourmet burger. Dine inside or out. • $$ FB TO Weekend brunch. B, L D Tue.-Sun. THE FOX RESTAURANT 3580 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 387-2669 Owners Ian and Mary Chase offer fresh diner fare and homemade desserts. Breakfast is served all day, along with signature items such as burgers, meatloaf and fried green tomatoes. A Jacksonville landmark for more than 50 years, The Fox is open daily. • $$ BW K L D Daily GEORGIE’S DINER 100 Malaga St., St. Augustine, 819-9006, thealcazarcafe.com Casual ’60s-themed Georgie’s serves homestyle fare and Greek specialties from George Chryssaidis, who also owns nearby Athena Restaurant. Outdoor seating available. • $$ BW B L D Daily JACK & DIANE’S 708 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 321-1444, jackanddianescafe.com In a renovated 1887 shotgun home, the café serves favorites: jambalaya, French toast and mac-n-cheese. A vegan and vegetarian selection, too. Dine indoors or on a porch overlooking historic downtown. • $$ FB K B L D; closed Tue. & Thur.

JOHNNY ANGEL’S DINER 3546 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S., Ste. 120, Southside, 997-9850, johnnyangelsdiner.com The diner serves dishes that reflect its ’50s-style décor, like Blueberry Hill pancakes, Fats Domino omelet and Elvis special combo platter, plus burgers and hand-dipped shakes. Live music, monthly car shows. • $ BW K TO B L D Daily METRO DINER 3302 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 398-3701 12807 San Jose Blvd., Julington, 638-6185 1534 N. Third St., Jax Beach, 853-6817 4495 Roosevelt Blvd., Ortega, 999-4600 9802 Baymeadows Rd., Southside, 425-9142 2034 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 375-8548 1000 S. Ponce de Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, 758-3323, metrodiner.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The original upscale diner is located in a historic 1930s-era building amid San Marco’s residential district, and there are two other locations. All serve meatloaf, chicken pot pie and homemade soups.

• $$ B R L Daily OCEANA DINER 13799 Beach Blvd., Ste. 3, Intracoastal, 374-1915, oceanadiner.net Traditional American diner fare served in a family atmosphere. • $ K TO B L Daily UNIVERSITY DINER 5959 Merrill Rd., Arlington, 762-3433 The popular diner serves familiar breakfast fare and lunch items like meatloaf, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, BLTs, clubs and melts. Daily specials. • $$ BW B L Daily WHAT’S COOKIN’ 1921 Lane Ave. S., Westside, 683-1306 Homestyle country cookin’ at this family-owned place has Southern dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Friendly service, too. • $ B L D Daily

ECLECTIC & UPSCALE

AQUA GRILL 950 Sawgrass Village Dr., Ponte Vedra, 285-3017, aquagrill.net Since 1988, the American-eclectic restaurant has served fresh local seafood, aged prime steaks and vegetarian entrées. Patio seating.

Reservations accepted. • $$$ FB L D Daily THE BACK 40 URBAN CAFÉ 40 S. Dixie Hwy., St. Augustine, 824-0227, back40cafe.com Owner Brian Harmon serves Caribbean-flavored lunch and dinner items – wraps, upside-down chicken potpie and fresh, local seafood – in an 1896 building. Wi-Fi available, and local art adorns the walls. $ BW K L D Daily bb’s RESTAURANT & BAR 1019 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 306-0100, bbsrestaurant.com The upscale restaurant serves daily specials and variety of dishes from sandwiches and salads, to fresh seafood and specialty meats.

Dine inside or on the patio. $$$ FB R L D Mon.-Sat. BEECH STREET BAR & GRILL 801 Beech St., Fernandina Beach, 572-1390, beechstreetbarandgrill.com In a restored 1889 house, this place serves fresh, local food with a twist. Local seafood, handcut steaks, housemade pizza, craft cocktails, and a full bar. • $$ FB K TO D Tue.-Sun. BENNY’S STEAK & SEAFOOD Jax Landing, Ste. 175, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 301-1014, bennyssteakandseafood.com Benny’s serves Continental cuisine with such signature dishes as the Filet Christian. • $$$ FB K L D Daily BISCOTTIS 3556 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 387-2060, biscottis.net 2014 Best of Jax Winner A microcosm of the Avondale neighborhood it calls home, Biscottis serves everything from innovative pizzas to a massive selection of almost-too-pretty-to-eat desserts. • $$$ BW L D Daily; R Sat.-Sun. BLACK SHEEP RESTAURANT 1534 Oak St., Riverside, 380-3091, blacksheep5points.com Black Sheep serves New American favorites with a Southern twist, made with locally sourced ingredients. Awesome rooftop bar. • $$$ FB R Sat. & Sun.; L D Daily BLACKSTONE GRILLE 112 Bartram Oaks Walk, Ste. 102, Julington, 287-0766, blackstonegrille.com Blackstone specializes in modern American fusion cuisine, served in a trendy bistro-style setting. • $$$ FB L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. BRICK RESTAURANT 3585 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 387-0606, brickofavondale.com The casual eatery’s exposed-brick façade and interior are modern, but still classic Avondale. Despite the expensive fixtures, you can still grab a burger and watch a game or get the best lamb chops in town. And the veggie burger? Killer. • $$$ FB L D Daily; R Sat.-Sun. BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE 4910 Big Island Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 807-9960, brioitalian.com The upscale Northern Italian restaurant offers wood-grilled and oven-roasted steaks, chops and seafood. Dine indoors or al fresco on the terrace. • $$$ FB K TO R Sat. & Sun.; L D Daily CAFE CORDOVA 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine, 810-6810, casamonica.com In Casa Monica Hotel, this restaurant offers light breakfasts, pastries, hand-tossed pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. The adjacent Cobalt Lounge has a variety of fine wines. • $$$ FB R Sun.; B L D Daily CAFE FREDA 2782 Park St., Riverside, 619-7687 Cafe Freda serves made-from-scratch global comfort food with classic American, Middle Eastern, French and Indian influences, specializing in fresh local seafood and vegan dishes. • $$ BW K TO R L D Tue.-Sun. CAFÉ NOLA AT MOCA JAX 333 N. Laura St., Downtown, 224-0113, mocajacksonville.org

In the Museum of Contemporary Art, Café Nola serves a seasonal and local contemporary cuisine, including seasonal gnocchi, lobster cobb salad and Korean spicy fried chicken wrap. Dinner served Thur. and during First Wednesday Art Walk. • $$ FB L Mon.-Fri.; D Thur. & ArtWalk COPELAND’S OF NEW ORLEANS 4310 Southside Blvd., 998-4414, copelandsjacksonville.com Copeland’s 80-item New Orleans-themed, award-winning menu has authentic Creole, Cajun and New Orleans cuisine, including seafood, pasta and steak. Happy hour Mon.-Sat. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily THE CORNER BISTRO & WINE BAR 9823 Tapestry Park Circle, Ste. 1, Southside, 619-1931, cornerbistrowinebar.com Casual fine dining, with a menu that blends modern American favorites served with international flair. • $ FB L D Daily GYPSY CAB COMPANY 828 Anastasia Blvd., Anastasia Island, 824-8244, gypsycab.com A mainstay for 32 years, Gypsy’s urban cuisine menu changes twice daily. The signature dish is Gypsy chicken; there’s also seafood, tofu, duck and veal dishes. The Sunday brunch draws everyone from churchgoers to bikers. • $$ FB R Sun.; L D Daily MARKER 32 14549 Beach Blvd., Intracoastal Waterway, 223-1534, marker32.com Established in 1992, with an awesome panoramic ICW view, Marker 32 offers an innovative American eclectic menu, with fresh, local seafood, shrimp and Andouille fettuccini, herb-grilled local fish with hoppin john and basil pesto rice, broiled oysters and yellow fin tuna poke. • $$$ FB K D Mon.-Sat. MERGE RESTAURANT 510 S. Eighth St., Fernandina Beach, 277-8797 Owner Adam Sears, former Ritz-Carlton sous chef, presents modern American fusion cuisine made with fresh ingredients. The seasonal menu has seafood, and there are duck, chicken and beef dishes, too. • $$$ FB D Nightly NINETEEN AT TPC SAWGRASS 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra, 273-3235, tpc.com In Tournament Players Club, Nineteen has more than 230 varieties of wines and an array of freshly prepared American and Continental cuisine, including local seafood, served inside or al fresco on the verandah. • $$$ FB L D Daily OVINTE 10208 Buckhead Branch Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 900-7730, ovinte.com The chic place has a variety of tapas and small plate items made with Spanish and Italian flavors, including ceviche fresco, pappardelle bolognese and ravioli del giorno. A 240-bottle wine list, 75 by the glass, and craft spirits are available. Outdoor dining is offered and there’s a bocce court, too. • $$ FB TO R, Sun.; D Nightly PALATE RESTAURANT & RAW BAR 614 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 432-7690, palateamelia.com The new place has upscale Southern-influenced cuisine and a raw bar. • $$ FB K TO L D Mon.-Sat. PLAE 80 Amelia Village Circle, Amelia Island, 277-2132, plaefl.net Located in the Spa & Shops at Omni Amelia Island Plantation, this bistro style venue offers an innovative menu (with such crowd pleasers as whole fried fish and duck breast), artistic décor and live entertainment Thur.-Sat. Outdoor dining is available. • $$$ FB TO D Nightly; closed Sun. SALT The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, Amelia Island Pkwy., 277-1100, ritzcarlton.com Chef de Cuisine Richard Laughlin’s award-winning menu has New American cuisine made with simple elements from the earth and sea, like tuna and watermelon tartare and wagyu ribeye, served in a contemporary coastal setting. An extensive wine list has more than 500 wines. • $$$$ FB D Tue.-Sun.

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Miguel Salas at Havana Jax offers up chimichurri, black beans and yellow rice, plantains and wine.

<<< FROM PREVIOUS SEVEN BRIDGES GRILLE & BREWERY 9735 Gate Pkwy. N., Tinseltown, 997-1999, 7bridgesgrille.com The grill and brewery has a variety of made-from-scratch fare, and local seafood, steaks and pizzas. Brewer Aaron Nesbit handcrafts award-winning freshly brewed ales and lagers. Dine indoors or out; use of the pool tables is free until 4 p.m. Live music Fri., weather permitting. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily STONEWOOD TAVERN & GRILL 3832 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 3, 739-7206, stonewoodgrill.com The casual, upscale Stonewood Grill offers a flavorful dining experience with a classic American menu. The full bar offers a large wine list and a daily happy hour. • $$ FB D Daily THE TASTING ROOM, WINE & TAPAS 25 Cuna St., St. Augustine, 810-2400, tastetapas.com Michael Lugo’s upscale contemporary Spanish restaurant fuses innovative tapas with an extensive wine list. Live music nightly. • $$$ BW L Tue.-Sun., D Nightly TAVERNA 1986 San Marco Blvd., 398-3005, tavernasanmarco.com Chef Sam Efron serves modern interpretations of classic recipes with authentic Italian ingredients, seasonal produce and meats from local purveyors. The wine list won a Wine Spectator award. Regional craft beers and handcrafted cocktails. • $$$ FB K TO R L D Daily TRES LECHES EATERY 869 Stockton St., Riverside, 551-4375, treslechesdesserts.com The cozy spot has items made with a Spanish flavor – quiches, empanadas, arepas, bocadillos – and sandwiches, soups and baked goods. Desserts include chocolate marquesa, Caribbean lime pie and, of course, tres leches. • $$ B L Daily; D Tue.-Sat. VERNON’S RESTAURANT 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra, 280-3405, sawgrassmarriott.com Named for the developer who helped craft TPC Sawgrass golf courses, the restaurant has fresh Florida seafood, hand-cut chops and a stellar wine list. Happy hour daily, live music 5 p.m. Fridays. • $$$$ FB B Daily; D Nightly

FRENCH CUISINE

BISTRO AIX 1440 San Marco Blvd., 398-1949, bistrox.com Bistro Aix serves French- and Mediterranean-inspired fare in an urban-chic atmosphere in the historic district. The menu changes seasonally, and the wine list has more than 250 choices. The wood-fired oven baked and grilled specialties include pizza, pasta, risotto, steaks and seafood. Happy hour Mon.-Fri., with hand-crafted cocktails and specialty drinks. Outdoor dining. • $$$ FB TO L D Daily LE CLOS CAFÉ RESTAURANT PROVENCAL 20 S. Second St., Fernandina Beach, 261-8100, leclos.com In Fernandina’s historic district, Le Clos features fresh fish and seafood entrées by candlelight in a turn-of-the-century cottage.

Chef/owner Katherine Ewing earned degrees in pastry and cuisine from Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, and trained at Paris Ritz Hotel.

Reservations recommended. • $$$$ BW D Mon.-Sat. THE MAGNIFICAT CAFÉ 231 N. Laura St., Downtown, 353-3588, magnificatcafe.com On Hemming Plaza, The French-style café serves French onion soup, quiche Lorraine and fresh fruit salad. Dine indoors or out on the covered patio. • $ TO L Mon.-Fri. MIMI’S CAFE 10209 River Coast Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 620-0660, mimiscafe.com Signature quiches, salads, sandwiches, chicken pot pie, beef bourguignon and roasted turkey breast are served in a French cottage-themed spot. • $ FB K TO B L D Daily ORSAY 3630 Park St., Riverside, 381-0909, restaurantorsay.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The staff combines French cuisine with Southern American influences to create a menu that spotlights fresh, local ingredients.

The restaurant’s farm-to-table dishes earned Orsay a Snail of Approval recommendation from Slow Food First Coast. Steak frites, mussels, scallops and Alsatian pork chops are served in an elegant setting. • $$$ FB R, Sun.; D Nightly

GERMAN CUISINE

HOPTINGER BIER GARDEN & SAUSAGE HOUSE 333 First St. N., Jax Beach, 222-0796, hoptinger.com A modern “Baverican” bier garden with 62 taps flowing craft beers, as well as creative liquor libations. The menu has sausage dogs, burgers, handhelds and more somewhat Bavarian-inspired gastropub fare. Daily happy hour. $$ FB TO L D Daily

GLOBAL & INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

619 OCEAN VIEW 619 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra, 285-6198, sawgrassmarriott.com At Cabana Beach Club, 619 Ocean View offers dining with a Mediterranean touch, featuring fresh seafood, grilled steaks and weekly specials. Dine on a balcony overlooking the Atlantic. • $$$ FB D Wed.-Sun. AVILÉS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 32 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, 829-2277, avilesrestaurantstaugustine.com In Hilton Bayfront Hotel, Aviles offers a progressive Europeanflavored menu, and made-to-order pasta nights and chophouse nights. And a champagne brunch every Sunday, with Bloody Marys and Mimosas. • $$$ FB K B L D Daily AZURÉA 1 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-7402, oneoceanresort.com

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Located within the One Ocean Resort hotel, Azuréa offers elegant oceanfront dining with a menu influenced by flavors of Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas. An extensive wine list is offered. • $$$$ FB K B L D Daily BAXTER’S RESTAURANT 4919 First Coast Hwy., Amelia Island, 277-4503 The upscale restaurant serves Continental cuisine with a focus on certified Angus beef, seafood, veal and lamb. Outdoor seating is available. • $$$ FB K D Nightly CAFÉ 4750 The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy., 277-1100, ritzcarlton.com All day dining and an innovative, seasonal menu, including a daily, regional-inspired breakfast buffet. Local fish, Mayport shrimp, seasonal vegetables from local farms, farm-raised, grass-fed beef and lamb. Pastas, breads and gelatos are house-made. Dine inside or on the terrace. • $$$ FB B, L, D Daily CASA MARINA INN & RESTAURANT 691 First St. N., Jax Beach, 270-0025, casamarinahotel.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The historic 1924 restaurant is the oldest structure in Jax Beach; dine indoors, on the verandah or in the oceanfront courtyard. The daily menu has crab cakes, pulled pork sliders, and homemade breads. Lunch includes salads, burgers, tacos and sandwiches.

Penthouse Lounge offers a martini bar and a terrific view of the Atlantic Ocean. • $$ FB R, Sun.; L Tue.-Fri.; D Nightly COLLAGE 60 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 829-0055, collagestaug.com In an intimate historic district space, Collage offers high-end dining with a global menu. Everything is made from scratch. The Bougainvillea specialty dessert commemorates the Brazilian tree. An extensive wine list is offered. • $$$$ BW D Nightly COSTA BRAVA 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine, 810-6810, casamonica.com In Casa Monica Hotel, the new restaurant offers a meze-style menu with fresh and flavorful coastal cuisine, as well as crafted cocktails and an extensive wine list. • $$$ FB R Sun.; B Daily; L Mon.-Sat.; D Nightly CURRENTS RIVERVIEW BISTRO 841 Prudential Dr., Southbank, 306-9512 Indian, Thai, Latin and European inspired dishes, plus Southern fried chicken. Outside dining. • $$ FB B L Mon.-Fri. DAVID’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 802 Ash St., Fernandina Beach, 310-6049, ameliaislanddavids.com The fine-dining place serves steaks and fresh seafood, like rack of lamb and ribeye, and Chilean sea bass, in an upscale atmosphere by an attentive waitstaff. Chef Wesley Cox has created a new lounge menu. Live music two nights a week. • $$$$ FB D Nightly DWIGHT’S MEDITERRANEAN STYLE BISTRO 1527 Penman Rd., Jax Beach, 241-4496, dwightsbistro.com The small bistro specializes in hand-rolled pasta and grilled vegetables. Owner and Chef Dwight DeLude, member of La Chaine des Rotisseurs, prepares meals in an exhibition kitchen and all dishes, including sea scallops and the popular crab cakes, include pasta and veggies. With limited seating, reservations are suggested.

• $$$$ BW D Tue.-Sat. ELEVEN SOUTH 216 11th Ave. S., Jax Beach, 241-1112, elevensouth.com Elegant dining at the beach, Eleven South serves New American eclectic cuisine. In addition to a mesquite grill and courtyard dining, Eleven South offers a selection of fine wines. Reservations suggested. • $$$ FB L Tue.-Fri.; D Daily JOE’S 2ND STREET BISTRO 14 S. Second St., Fernandina Beach, 321-2558, joesbistro.com Joe’s offers upscale New American fine dining with French, Creole, Asian and low country influences. Seating is available in the dining room, out in the large, New Orleans-style courtyard, or upstairs on the porch with a view of the Intracoastal. • $$ BW L D Wed.-Mon.

LA COCINA INTERNATIONAL 530 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 461-8288, lacocinarestaurants.com In Castillo Real Hotel, La Cocina serves global cuisine with Latin flair. Owner Juan Solano creates international specialties like paella Valenciana and nightly specials. • $$$ BW B Tue.-Sun.; D Daily LE PAVILLON 45 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 824-6202, lepav.com One of the oldest restaurants in the area, Le Pavillon is familyowned and operated. Gisele Sinatsch recommends the rack of lamb and the bouillabaisse. Norwegian salmon is popular, as are the duck and the Dover sole. • $$ FB D Nightly MATTHEW’S 2107 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 396-9922, matthewsrestaurant.com This is Chef Matthew Medure’s flagship restaurant, fine dining in a refined, European-style atmosphere. Matthew’s specializes in artfully presented cuisine; the lounge offers small plates, an extensive martini and wine list and a happy hour Mon.-Fri. Reservations recommended. • $$$$ FB D Mon.-Sat. MEZZA RESTAURANT & BAR 110 First St., Neptune Beach, 249-5573, mezzarestaurantandbar.com The near-the-ocean eatery (in Beaches Town Center) has been around more than 20 years, serving casual bistro fare like gourmet wood-fired pizzas to nightly specials. Dine indoors or out on the covered patio. Musical happy hour Tue. and Thur. Valet parking. • $$$ FB K D Mon.-Sat. NORTH BEACH BISTRO 725 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 6, Atlantic Beach, 372-4105, nbbistro.com The casual neighborhood eatery serves hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood and a tapas menu. An extensive wine list and happy hour are offered. Live entertainment is presented Tues., Thur.-Sat. • $$$ FB K R Sun.; L Tue.-Sun.; D Nightly OCEAN 60 RESTAURANT, WINE BAR & MARTINI ROOM 60 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 247-0060, ocean60.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Continental cuisine, fresh seafood, nightly dinner specials and a seasonal menu in a formal dining room or the more casual Martini Room. Local artists are featured, along with live Latin and blues. • $$$ FB D Mon.-Sat. OLD CITY HOUSE INN & RESTAURANT 115 Cordova St., St. Augustine, 826-0184, oldcityhouse.com St. Augustine’s only Historic Inn with a full-service restaurant and bar. Global cuisine influences are evident in everything from the crab and sweet corn to spring rolls. • $$$$ FB B L D Mon.-Sat. PURPLE OLIVE INTERNATIONAL BISTRO 4255 A1A S., Ste. 6, St. Augustine Beach, 461-1250, purple-olive.com The family-owned-and-operated restaurant’s dinner menu includes local seafood, prime cuts of beef, lamb, pork, vegetarian choices, local produce, and an option to create your own plate with a selection of entrées, sauces and sides. • $$$ BW D Tue.-Sat. RAINTREE RESTAURANT 102 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 824-7211, raintreerestaurant.com In an 1879 Victorian home for more than 35 years, Raintree offers steak and seafood, happy hour. Reservations accepted; patio dining.

Live music on weekends. • $$$ FB D Nightly RESTAURANT MEDURE 818 A1A N., Ponte Vedra, 543-3797, restaurantmedure.us Chef David Medure creates dishes with a wide range of flavors from around the world. The lounge offers small plates, creative drinks and entertainment, including happy hour. Live music nightly. • $$$ FB D Mon.-Sat. ROY’S HAWAIIAN FUSION CUISINE 2400 Third St. S., Ste. 101, Jax Beach, 241-7697, roysrestaurant.com High-end dining with aloha service, Roy’s serves Hawaiian fusion

with Asian aromatics using fresh local ingredients, European sauces and bold Asian spices. • $$$$ FB K D Nightly SPY GLOBAL CUISINE & LOUNGE 21 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 819-5637, spyglobalcuisine.com The sophisticated place has a West Coast vibe. Chef James Keene’s menu includes traditional Japanese entrées created with a European influence, sushi, saketinis, and 50 wines. • $$$ BW K L Thur.-Sun.; D Tue.-Sun. WILDFLOWER CAFÉ 4320 A1A S., St. Augustine Beach, 471-2691, wildflowercafefl.com One block from the beach, the Provençal-style cafe’s signature dishes are Wildflower grouper — sautéed, with blue crab meat and toasted almonds. • $ BW K B L Tue.-Sat. WINE CELLAR 1314 Prudential Dr., Southbank, 398-8989, winecellarjax.com The local landmark offers classic Continental and New World cuisine in an Old World setting. Dine outdoors under oaks or indoors in intimate dining rooms. • $$$$ FB L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. WORLD OF BEER 9700 Deer Lake Ct., Ste. 1, Southside, 551-5929 311 Third St. N., Ste. 104, 372-9698, worldofbeer.com The beercentric place, begun in Pensacola, serves burgers, tavern fare, sliders, sandwiches, flatbreads, German pretzels, hummus and pickle chips. Craft drafts from all over: Germany, Cali, Florida (Bold City brews), Ireland and Belgium. Wines, too. Live music Thur.-Sat. • $$ BW L D Daily

GREEK, MEDITERRANEAN & MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE

13 GYPSIES 887 Stockton St., Riverside, 389-0330, 13gypsies.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The intimate bistro serves authentic Mediterranean peasant cuisine updated for American tastes, specializing in chorizo, tapas, blackened cod, pork skewers, risotto of the day and coconut mango curry chicken.

Bread is made from scratch onsite. • $$ BW L D Tue.-Sat., R Sat. 3RD STREET DINER 223 Ninth Ave. S., Jax Beach, 270-0080, 3rdstreetdinerjax.com Greek/American fare served Yankee-style, for more than 13 years, features a variety of quality, homestyle dishes: gyros, ribs, lamb, liver and onions. Specialty desserts, too. • $ FB K TO B L D Daily ATHENA RESTAURANT 14 Cathedral Pl., St. Augustine, 823-9076, thealcazarcafe.com/athena-restaurant Located on the historic downtown Plaza, Athena has an extensive menu of Greek and American dishes, including moussaka, lamb kabobs and spinach pie. Dine inside at a booth or table. • $$$ BW TO B L D Daily ATHENS CAFÉ 6271 St. Augustine Rd., Ste. 7, Mandarin, 733-1199, athenscafe.com From the dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) to the baby shoes (stuffed eggplant), Athens has all the faves, plus Greek beers. • $$ BW L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. THE CASBAH CAFÉ 3628 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 981-9966, thecasbahcafe.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine are served on the patio or in the hookah lounge, where diners sit on ottomans at low tables.

Wi-Fi is available, belly dancers perform, and hookah pipes are offered. Live jazz on Sun. • $$ BW L D Daily FALAFEL QUEEN 1080 S. Ponce de Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, 217-4886 Homemade Lebanese fare made by the Falafel Queen herself.

Specialties are housemade hummus, gluten-free chips and halal meats. • $$ TO L D Mon.-Sat.

HALA CAFÉ & BAKERY 4323 University Blvd. S., Southside, 733-5141 The Jacksonville institution — since 1975 — serves homemade pita bread, kabobs, falafel, tabouli and a daily lunch buffet. The adjacent store carries delicacies from all over the world. • $$ BW TO L D Mon.-Sat. HOVAN MEDITERRANEAN GOURMET 2005 Park St., Ste. 1, Five Points, 381-9394, hovan5points.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Hovan offers traditional Mediterranean cuisine, like freshly made hummus, baba ghannoush and gyros. Patio dining. Hookahs available. • $ BW L D Mon.-Sat. MANDALOUN MEDITERRANEAN LEBANESE CUISINE 9862 Old Baymeadows Rd., 646-1881, mandalounjacksonville.com With restaurants in London, Paris, Rome and the Middle East, owner Pierre Barakat brings authentic Lebanese cuisine to including charcoal-grilled lamb kebab. Belly dancing featured every Fri. and Sat. Monthly dinner parties. Outdoor seating. • $$ FB TO L D Daily MEDITERRANIA RESTAURANT 3877 Baymeadows Rd., 731-2898, mediterraniarestaurant.com With an Old World atmosphere, this family-owned-and-operated Greek and Italian restaurant has been a local favorite for more than 26 years. Fresh seafood, veal chops and rack of lamb are among the specialties. • $$ BYOB D Wed.-Sun.; L Sat. & Sun. MEZZE BAR & GRILL 2016 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 683-0693, mezzejax.com Mezze features Mediterranean cuisine — hummus, kabobs — plus brick-oven pizza and veggie options. There’s a hookah patio, Wi-Fi and 35 beers on tap. • $$ FB D Nightly THE OLIVE TREE MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE 1705 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 396-2250, theolivetreemediterraneangrille.com The Olive Tree serves Mediterranean homestyle healthy plates, like hummus, tabouli, grape leaves, veggie kibbi, gyros, potato salad, Greek salad. • $$ BW L D Mon.-Fri. SAHARA CAFE & BAR 10771 Beach Blvd., Ste. 110, Southside, 338-9049, saharacafejax.com From tiled floors to a pillowed lounge, the family-owned-and-operated restaurant has Mediterranean style. Flavored hookahs and hot tea offered in the lounge. Belly dancers every weekend. • $$ BW D Nightly TABOULEH MEDITERRANEAN CAFE 7645 Merrill Rd., Ste. 201, Arlington, 745-6900, taboulehjax.com The menu here includes classic Middle Eastern and Greek favorites like kebabs, hummus, kibbeh, gyro, spinach pies, baba ghanouge and, of course, tabouleh. • $$ BW TO L D Mon.-Sat. TAVERNA YAMAS 9753 Deer Lake Ct., Southside, 854-0426, tavernayamas.com The Greek restaurant serves char-broiled kabobs, seafood and traditional Greek wines and desserts. Belly dancing shows. A DJ spins every Fri. and Sat. • $$ FB K L D Daily THE TENT HOOKAH LOUNGE 12041 Beach Blvd., Ste. 4, Intracoastal, 551-2962, thetenthookahlounge.com Authentic fare: falafel, kibbeh, musabhaha, baklava. Hookahs and flavored tobacco, Arabic coffees, specials and live belly dancing and floor seating, in keeping with that authenticity thing. Open late. • $ BW D Daily THEO’S RESTAURANT 169 King St., St. Augustine, 824-5022 On the San Sebastian River, Theo’s is just far enough away from the heart of downtown that it’s a place for locals and tourists alike.

Favorites include seafood and Greek dishes. • $ B L Daily ZAHARIAS RESTAURANT 3945 A1A S., St. Augustine Beach, 471-4799 The family-owned place has been serving Greek and Italian dishes for more than 25 years. Patio dining; live music on weekends. • $$ FB K B L D Daily ZODIAC BAR & GRILL 120 W. Adams St., Downtown, 354-8283, thezodiacbarandgrill.com Zodiac serves Mediterranean cuisine and American faves in a casual atmosphere, as well as paninis and vegetarian dishes.

The daily lunch buffet is a downtown favorite. Espressos and hookahs are available. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. There’s live music on Fridays. • $ FB L Mon.-Fri.; D Wed.-Sat.

HOME COOKIN’

AUNT KATE’S 612 Euclid Ave., St. Augustine, 829-1105, aunt-kates.com The casual spot has an expansive Tolomato River view and a menu with a focus on seafood. Burgers, pasta dishes, steak and ribs also served. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily BEACH ROAD CHICKEN DINNERS 4132 Atlantic Blvd., St. Nicholas, 398-7980, beachroadchickendinners.com Just like Sunday dinner at home — if your folks cook fried chicken, okra, sweet corn nuggets, country-fried steak, gizzards and chicken livers, fish and shrimp. And creamed peas, gravy, cole slaw, biscuits, fruit cobbler, fries, rice … at the same location since 1939. • $ K TO L D Tue.-Sun. CARIBBEAN SOL CAFE 6101 A1A S., Crescent Beach, 471-7000 The soul food is slow food — made with only fresh, local ingredients and prepared with care. The cuisine is down-home (where else can you get fried perch with grits and fresh tomato for breakfast?), the atmosphere is friendly and the choices are many. • $ TO B L Tue.-Sat. CHECKER BBQ & SEAFOOD 3566 St. Augustine Rd., San Marco, 398-9206, artofcrackercooking.com Chef Art Jennette runs the show, serving barbecue, seafood and down-home comfort food. Ask for the Trailer Trash Special — a pulled-pork sandwich, 15 of Art’s fried white shrimp, hand-cut fries and fresh fried green tomatoes. • $ K L D Daily COL. MUSTARD’S PHABULOUS PHAT BURGERS 1722 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 247-5747, jaxbestburgers.com The Colonel serves up some of the region’s best (and biggest) hamburgers, with a side of attitude. Breakfast is served all day, featuring five-egg omelets and French toast. Delivery available. • $ K TO B L D Daily

ELLEN’S KITCHEN 1824 Third St. S., Pablo Plaza, Jax Beach, 246-1572 Serving the Beaches since 1962, this busy kitchen, famous for its homemade sausage gravy and hash browns, offers a full breakfast all day. For lunch, there’s sandwiches, BLTs and patty melts. There’s usually a line for breakfast on weekends. • $ TO B L Daily LEDDY’S PORCH 22 Third St. S., Fernandina Beach, 491-3322, floridahouseinn.com The Florida House Inn has reopened its family-style restaurant, now named for the home’s owner after the Civil War. Chef Marshal Sands serves traditional dishes, like fried chicken and fish-n-grits, as well as Cajun remoulade, plus cornbread and biscuits. Bottomless mimosas, too. • $$ BW R Sat. & Sun.; L Wed.-Sun. LE SHEA’S HOMESTYLE EATERY 119 W. Adams St., Downtown, 354-5685 Real Southern and soul food are the focus at Le Shea’s, including meat loaf, fried chicken, burgers and spaghetti — and plenty of sides. Dine-in or take-out. • $ TO L Mon.-Fri. SIMPLY SARA’S 2902 Corinthian Ave., Ortega, 387-1000, simplysaras.net The spot offers down-home cooking, from scratch like Grandma’s: eggplant fries, pimento cheese, baked chicken, fruit cobblers, chicken & dumplings, desserts. BYOB. • $$ K TO L D Tue.-Sat., B Sat. SOUL FOOD BISTRO 5310 Lenox Ave., Ste. 1, Westside, 394-0860, thesoulfoodbistro.com SOUL FOOD BISTRO II 11876 Atlantic Blvd., Southside, 394-2801 Owned by the Potters House Christian Fellowship, the cafeteria-style restaurant serves traditional Southern food: Fried chicken, greens, macn-cheese, cornbread and other regional faves. • $ TO L D Tue.-Sun. TWO DOORS DOWN 436 Park St., Riverside, 598-0032, twodoorsdownrestaurant.kimcee.com The restaurant is a warm, inviting place offering traditional faves like hotcakes, omelets, burgers, sandwiches, pork chops, liver and onions and Southern fried chicken, as well as sides and desserts. • $$ K TO B L Mon.-Fri.

INDIAN CUISINE

APNA RESTAURANT 10769 Beach Blvd., Ste. 14, Southside, 645-3334, apnajacksonville.eat24hour.com Apna serves Indian and Pakistani cuisine, featuring hala. Daily lunch buffet, vegetarian items. • $ L D Daily THE 5th ELEMENT 9485 Baymeadows Rd., 448-8265, my5thelement.com A variety of authentic Indian, South Indian and Indochinese dishes, a large lunch buffet of lamb, goat and chicken dishes, and tandoori and biryani items are served. • $$ BW K L D Daily FLAVORS ESSENCE OF INDIA 9551 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 10, 733-1525, jaxflavors.com Master chefs create contemporary and traditional dishes from all over India, including lamb, fish and prawn entrées. Clay oven kabobs and breads, vegetarian dishes and desserts also served. A lunch buffet includes vegetarian items. • $$ BW L D Daily INDIA’S RESTAURANT 9802 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 8, 620-0777, indiajax.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner India’s has claimed several of our readers’ poll Best of Jax awards for authentic Indian cuisine, serving a popular lunch buffet. Curry and vegetable dishes are offered, along with lamb, chicken, shrimp and fish tandoori. • $$ BW L Mon.-Sat.; D Nightly MINT INDIAN RESTAURANT 8490 Baymeadows Rd., 367-1821, jaxmint.com Mint serves a new style of authentic and traditional Indian cuisine. A daily lunch buffet is available. Daily happy hour. • $ L D Daily ZESTY INDIA 8358 Point Meadows Dr., Baymeadows, 329-3676, zestyindia.com The chefs combine Asian methodology with a European template to produce layers of flavors for their dishes, like tandoori lamb chops and rosemary tikka. The vegetarian items are cooked separately in vegetable oil. Lunch platters are a favorite. • $ BW TO L D Tue.-Sun.

ITALIAN CUISINE

AMICI ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1915B A1A S., St. Augustine Beach, 461-0102, micistaugustine.com The family-owned-and-operated restaurant has traditional pasta, veal, steak and seafood dishes. Daily happy hour. Live jazz every Thur. • $$ FB K L D Daily BENITO’S ITALIAN CAFÉ & PIZZERIA 9475 Philips Hwy., Ste. 8, Southside, 538-0222, benitositalian.com 3825 Baymeadows Rd., 646-1370, bellavita.com Family-friendly places serve authentic Italian cuisine, including veal and seafood entrées, gourmet pasta and specialty pizzas. • $$ FB K L D Daily BROADWAY RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA 10920 Baymeadows Rd. E., Ste. 3, 519-8000, broadwayfl.com The family-owned-and-operated Italian pizzeria serves calzones, strombolis, wings, brick-oven-baked pizza, subs and desserts. Dinein, take-out, delivery; $2 off 16-oz. pints all day, every day. Half-off select wines all day Wed. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily BUCA DI BEPPO 10334 Southside Blvd., 363-9090, buccadibeppo.com The popular restaurant gets to the heart of fresh Italian cooking with recipes like lasagna and rosemary potatoes. Dishes are in three portion sizes (half-pound meatballs!) and served family-style in an old-Italy setting. Gluten-free dishes, too. • $$$ FB K TO L D Daily CAFÉ ATLANTICO 647 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 471-7332, cafeatlantico.net The white-tablecloth restaurant serves traditional and new Italian dishes in an intimate space. Master Chef Paolo Pece, of Naples, Italy, prepares risotto alla pescatora, with shrimp, scallops and seasonal shellfish served in a parmesan cheese basket. • $$$ BW D Nightly CAFFÉ ANDIAMO 500 Sawgrass Village Dr., Ponte Vedra, 280-2299, caffeandiamo-pvb.com The Recupito family’s Caffe Andiamo offers fresh seafood, veal, steak and pizza prepared in a copper wood-burning oven, as well as daily specials

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<<< FROM PREVIOUS and 75 wines by the glass. Customer favorites include fracosta loco and cappesanti di mare. Dine on outdoor patio or inside. • $$$ FB D Nightly CARMINE’S PIE HOUSE 2677 Forbes St., Riverside, 387-1400, carminespiehouse.com The eatery serves pizza by the slice, gourmet pizzas and classic Italian dishes — calzone, strombolis, subs, paninis — in a comfy atmosphere. Craft beers and microbrews. Delivery available. • $$ BW K TO B L D Daily CASA DORA 108 E. Forsyth St., Downtown, 356-8282, casadoraitalian.com Chef Sam Hamidi has been serving genuine Italian fare to Jacksonville for more than 36 years with dishes like veal, seafood and gourmet pizza. The homemade salad dressing is a specialty. • $$ BW K L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. CIAO ITALIAN BISTRO 302 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 206-4311, ciaobistro-luca.com Owners Luca and Kim Misciasci offer fine Italian bistro fare in an intimate, friendly atmosphere. Traditional items include veal piccata, rigatoni Bolognese and antipasto; house specialties include chicken Ciao and homemade-style meat lasagna. • $$$ D Nightly ENZA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 10601 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 109, Mandarin, 268-4458, enzas.net The family-owned place offers casual fine dining, specializing in Italian cuisine, veal and seafood dishes like seafood lasagna. Daily specials. • $$$ FB K TO D Tue.-Sun. FRATELLI’S ITALIAN AMERICAN CUISINE 415 Anastasia Blvd., Anastasia Island, 819-1760 The neighborhood Italian place with a cozy atmosphere offers ItalianAmerican specialties, including meat lasagna, veal parmigiana, almondcrusted salmon and chicken Verona. • $$ BW TO D Mon.-Sat. JOEY MOZZARELLA 930 Blanding Blvd., Ste. D, Orange Park, 579-4748, letseat.at/ joeymozzarellaonline At this Italian restaurant, calzones, strombolis and lasagna are customer faves, and all the pizza pies are available stuffed. BYOB. • $$ K TO L D Daily LECI’S ITALIAN CAFE 4076 Belfort Rd., Southside, 332-8144, lecisitalianrestaurant.webs.com Everything here is made from scratch, with authentic Italian ingredients. Dine indoors or outside. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily LEO’S PIZZA ITALIANO 5627 San Jose Blvd., Lakewood, 730-3830 The vibe at Leo’s is both Greek and Italian: Half of the restaurant has Greek décor, the other half Italian. Beer and a variety of Greek, Italian and California wines are served. Dine in or take out. • $ BW TO L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY 10367 Midtown Pkwy., St. Johns Town Center, 380-4360, maggianos.com Specializing in Italian-American cuisine, the restaurant has classic and contemporary dishes – pasta, steaks, seafood, chef’s specials and specialty desserts — made in a scratch kitchen. • $$$ FB K TO L D Daily MAMMA LUCIA 11380 Beach Blvd., Ste. 10, Southside, 645-0081, mammaluciajax.com Near University of North Florida and owned by real Italians, Mamma Lucia serves definitive Northern Italian cuisine, like risotto, osso buco and specialty dessert bomba al cioccolato, cake with ice cream and Amaretto. The pasta and tiramisu are made fresh. Espresso served. • $$ BW K TO L D Tue.-Sun. MAMA MIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 12220 Atlantic Blvd., Intracoastal, 221-1122, mamammiasjax.com Casual dining, lunchtime specials. The menu includes veal, seafood dishes and New York-style and big-crust Sicilian-style pizzas.

Delivery available. • $$ BW L D Tue.-Sun. MATT’S ITALIAN CUISINE 2771 Monument Rd., Ste. 8, Arlington, 646-4411, mattsitalian.com For 18 years, Matt’s has been serving seafood, stromboli and veal, cooked-to order. Delivery is available. • $$ BW TO L D Daily MILANO’S RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 12620 Beach Blvd., Ste. 21, Intracoastal, 646-9119 1504 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 339-0909, mymilanospizza.com The casual, family-owned restaurant and pizzeria serves homestyle Italian fare, like thin-crust New York-style pizzas, veal and baked dishes. Daily delivery service. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily NAPOLI’S PASTARIA 3787 Palm Valley Rd., Ste. 104, Palm Valley, 273-0006, napolispastaria.com Napoli’s offers traditional Italian dishes including veal, pasta and traditional hand-tossed and specialty pizzas. Delivery available.

• $$ BW K TO L D Daily NERO’S CAFÉ 3607 University Blvd. N., Arlington, 743-3141, neroscafe.com Nero’s has been serving traditional Italian-style food for more than 30 years. Along with nightly dinner specials, Nero’s has veal, seafood pasta dishes and New York City-style pizzas.

• $$ FB K TO D Nightly PASTA MARKET ITALIAN RESTAURANT & CLAM BAR 1930 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 276-9551, pastamarketitalianrestaurant.com The family-owned-and-operated restaurant offers gourmet pizzas, veal, chicken, mussels, shrimp, grouper and (of course) pastas: spaghetti, fettuccine, lasagna, ziti, calzones, linguini, tortellini. • $$ BW K D Nightly PERARD’S PIZZA & ITALIAN CUISINE 11043 Crystal Springs Rd., Ste. 2, Westside, 378-8131, perardspizza.com Family-owned Perard’s specializes in homemade sauces, dough, lasagna and desserts. Traditional Italian fare includes gourmet pizza toppings. • $ FB K TO L D Daily

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POPPY’S ITALIANO 832 A1A N., Ste. 1, Ponte Vedra Beach, 273-7272, poppysitaliano.net Family-owned-and-operated Poppy’s serves fresh gourmet Italian dishes and familiar faves. Dine inside or outdoors; carry out or drivethru. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily PRIMI PIATTI 2722 Park St., Riverside, 389-5545, primipiattijax.com The Northern Italian-style restaurant (the name means first plate in Italian) offers dishes made with fresh ingredients, daily specials, pastas and she-crab soup. • $$$ BW K L D Mon.-Sat. ROMA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 14965 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 880-2000, romasitalianpizzeria.com More than 100 items made with authentic Italian spices and herbs.

Specialties are veal, baked seafood, and gourmet pizzas. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily SANTIONI’S CUCINA ITALIANA RESTAURANT 11531 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 8, Mandarin, 262-5190, santionisjax.com Bruno and Silvana Santioni have been in the business of Italian dining since 1987. Their menu features rack of lamb and veal saltimbocca with homemade bread. Espresso is available. • $$ BW D Nightly SANTIONI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3535 U.S. 17, Ste. 15, Fleming Island, 264-1331, santionisitalianrestaurant.com Authentic Italian cuisine, desserts and an extensive wine list. Live entertainment Thur., Fri. and Sat. Wine tastings twice a month. • $$ BW K D Nightly SHIRAZ PIZZA & ITALIAN GRILLE 3980 Southside Blvd., Ste. 204, 738-8787, shirazjacksonville.com

JAPANESE & KOREAN CUISINE

BENTO CAFE PAN ASIAN & SUSHI 4860 Big Island Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 564-9494 9743 Deer Lake Ct., Ste. 11, Southside, 503-3238, bentocafesushi.com Casual dining at a quick pace is the Bento way, serving sushi and Pan-Asian cuisine, and vegan items. Sake is served; outdoor dining.

• $$ BW TO L D Daily CRAZY SUSHI 4320 Deerwood Lake Pkwy., Ste. 202, Southside, 998-9797, crazysushijax.com The place serves a full sushi bar, hibachi, sashimi, katsu, sake and tempura dishes. Favorites are the Dynamite roll, Cold roll and spicy Manhattan roll. • $$ FB L D Daily DANCING DRAGON 9041 Southside Blvd., Ste. 138C, 363-9888, thedimsumroom.com BOGO lunches, Asian fusion menu. • $ FB K L D Daily.

THE DIM SUM Room 9041 Southside Blvd., Ste. 138D, 363-9888 Shrimp dumplings, beef tripe, sesame ball. Traditional Hong Kong noodles, barbecue. $ FB K L D Daily FUJI SUSHI 13740 Beach Blvd., Intracoastal, 992-8998, jacksonvillefujisushi.com At the corner of Beach and Hodges, Fuji Sushi offers dine-in and take-out Japanese fare. Open late night, too. • $ TO L D Daily FUJI SUSHI 1950 San Marco Blvd., 399-3305 Located on San Marco Square, Fuji Sushi has an extensive sushi menu. Sake is served. Sushi lunch special daily. • $ BW K L D Daily

Kabuki serves certified Angus steaks and fresh seafood, all MSGfree. The Japanese dishes and items from the unlimited sushi bar can be customized, and the teppan art of cooking entertains as chefs prepare food before you. • $$$ BW TO D Tue.-Sun. KAMIYA 86 1286 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 853-6602, kamiya86.net The restaurant and bar features new Asian fusion cuisine, sushi — takka don, octopus, red clam, eel — and Thai dishes, like panang curry. Noodle and rice dishes. • $$ FB TO L Mon.-Sat.; D Daily KAN-KI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR 4483 Southside Blvd., Tinseltown, 642-2626 11148 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 292-2400 2009 East-West Pkwy., Fleming Island, 269-3003, kankijax.com Kan-ki Japanese steakhouse and sushi bar has teppanyaki tables, 10 sushi tables and a sushi bar. The menu includes steaks and seafood. • $$ FB K TO D Nightly KAZU JAPANESE RESTAURANT 9965 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 35, Mandarin, 683-9903, kazujapaneserestaurant.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner A wide variety of soups, dumplings, appetizers, salads, bento boxes, sushi, entrées, maki handrolls and sashimi are served. The sushi especially is artfully presented. The interior of the restaurant is clean, spacious and inviting. • $$ BW TO L D Daily KOJA SUSHI Jax Landing, Ste. 222, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 350-9911 Owners John and Tony — in the sushi game for more than 10 years — offer sushi, sashimi, and Japanese, Asian and Korean cuisine.

Hard-to-find items like baby octopus salad are available. Indoor and outdoor dining. • $$ FB L Mon.-Fri.; D Nightly MIKADO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 10460 Avenues Walk Blvd., Mandarin, 260-8860, mikadojax.com

Snac Shack in Orange Park serves up a variety of cookies, pies, and other baked goods.

The Italian restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat pizza lunch special.

Sandwiches, subs and baked dishes. Delivery available. • $ BW K TO L D Daily SIENA’S AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE 13170 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 26, Intracoastal, 220-9192, sienasitaliancuisine.com The varied menu offers Italian cuisine including lasagna, calzones and stuffed shells, as well as pizza and wraps. Live music is also presented. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily SORRENTO ITALIAN RESTAURANT 6943 St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 636-9196 Luciano Russo and his family opened Sorrento more than 20 years ago. The menu includes fish Francese and lamb Torinese, and entrées include a salad, bread and a side of spaghetti. • $$$ BW D Tue.-Sun. TOSCANA LITTLE ITALY 4440 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 900-1059, toscanajax.com The 150-seat place has Tuscan yellow walls, cherry wood tables and chairs, and tile floors. The extensive menu includes traditional Italian dishes. • $$ FB TO L Mon.-Fri.; D Mon.-Sat. VILLAGIO ITALIAN GRILLE 500 S. Legacy Trail, World Golf Village, St. Augustine, 940-8623, worldgolfrenaissance.com At Renaissance Resort, Villagio specializes in farm-to-fork Italian fare with fresh, local ingredients infused with fresh flavors, local fish and produce grown hydroponically at their farm. Live music Fri. $$$ FB K TO B L D Daily VINO’S PIZZA & GRILL 1430 San Marco Blvd., 683-2444 Hand-tossed New York-style, thin-crust pizzas, and Sicilian-style, thick-crust pizzas. Baked dishes, subs, stromboli, wings and wraps, daily lunch buffet. • $$ K L D Daily VINO’S PIZZA & GRILL 9910 Old Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 1, 641-7171, vinospizzabaymeadows.com 4268 Oldfield Crossing Dr., Greenland, 268-6660 Vino’s has hand-tossed New York-style, thin-crust pizzas, as well as Sicilian-style, thick-crust pizzas. Big salads, baked dishes, subs, stromboli, wings and wraps round out the menu.

• $ K L D Daily

FUJI SUSHI 660 Commerce Center Dr., Ste. 155, Regency, 722-9988, fujisushiregency.com A respite from the busy Regency-area bustle, this casual, modern restaurant serves sushi and sashimi, tempura, soups and entrées.

• $$ L D Daily FUJI SUSHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 10920 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 30, 363-8888, fujisushijapanese.com Fuji Sushi offers fresh sushi, steak, chicken, tempura, teriyaki and seafood. Delivery available with a minimum $25 order. • $$ BW K L D Daily FUJI SUSHI 9542 Argyle Forest Blvd., Ste. C-18, Westside, 778-1998 Skilled chefs create sushi items, vegetarian or regular style. Dinners include rice, soup and salad. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily FUSION SUSHI 1550 University Blvd. W., Lakewood, 636-8688, fusionsushijax.com The upscale sushi spot serves a variety of fresh sushi, sashimi, hibachi, teriyaki and kiatsu. • $$ K L D Daily HANA SUSHI JAPANESE CUISINE 1930 S. 14th St., Fernandina Beach, 277-8838, hanasushifl.com Hana’s bright shop offers a sushi bar and a full menu, including teriyaki, tempura, hibachi, katsu, udon and bento boxes. • $$ BW L D Daily HON KOREAN RESTAURANT 5161 Beach Blvd., Ste. 5, St. Nicholas, 396-4008 Hon serves home-style Korean, focusing on healthy soups, casseroles, entrées and side dishes, made with fresh meats, vegetables and seafood. The chef has more than 30 years experience making authentic Korean meals, using original methods passed down through her family. • $$$ BW TO L D Fri.-Tue. ICHIBAN JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR 675 N. Third St., Jax Beach, 247-4688 Ichiban provides three distinct dining areas: the teppan or hibachi tables, where you can watch the chef prepare your food; the sushi bar; and Western-style seating with a menu of tempura and teriyaki dishes. Japanese plum wine is served. • $$ FB K L D Daily KABUKI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR 1147 Amelia Plaza, Fernandina Beach, 277-8782, kabukijapanesesteakhouse.com

Serving traditional Japanese cuisine for more than 20 years. The big sushi bar seats more than 25 diners. Lunch buffet Mon.-Fri.; 12 hibachi tables. • $$ FB TO L D Daily MIZU SUSHI & GRILL 14965 Old St. Augustine Rd., Ste. 124, Mandarin, 880-0889, mizusushijax.com Master chefs prepare fresh sushi, seafood, steak and vegetables.

Dine inside or outdoors. Live music every Fri. • $$ BW K L D Daily NAGASAKI SUSHI & GRILL 12400 Yellow Bluff Rd., Northside, 751-2311, nagasakisushiandgrill.com Authentic traditional menu, including teriyaki and tempura dishes, plus hibachi, sushi and satsumi items. Bento boxes and lunch specials. • $$ L D Daily OISHII 4375 Southside Blvd., Ste. 4, 928-3223, oishiijapanesejacksonville.com Manhattan-style Japanese fusion cuisine, featuring fresh, highgrade sushi, a variety of lunch specials and hibachi items. • $$ BW K TO L D Tue.-Sun. OSAKA GRILL SUSHI BUFFET 11701 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 886-7778 More than 150 items offered at the Chinese and Japanese buffet, like soups, spareribs, a sushi bar, roast duck and ice cream. Kids under 12 dine at a discount. Buffet carry-out available. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily OSAKA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 9651 Crosshill Blvd., Ste. 102, Argyle, 317-0224, osakaoakleaf.com Located in Oakleaf Town Center, Osaka has a sushi bar and hibachi tables. • $$$ BW K TO L D Daily OTAKI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 7860 Gate Pkwy., Stes. 119-122, Southside, 854-0485, otakijax.com Otaki has a sushi bar, hibachi grill tables and an open kitchen. • $$$ FB K TO L D Daily PHILIP SUSHI 9475 Philips Hwy., Ste. 20, Southside, 519-7977, philipsushi.com The full-service sushi restaurant serves traditional sushi, hibachi, sashimi, tempura and teriyaki dishes. Daily happy hour, lunch specials. • $ BW TO L D Daily

Flying Iguana Chaf Josh Agan, in the restaurant’s rooftop herb garden, presents a South American-inspired bahn mi.

PHO A NOODLE BAR 117 W. Adams St., Downtown, 353-0320, phoanoodlebar.com Authentic Vietnamese and Thai dishes include egg rolls, potstickers.

Pho bowls: standard, vegan, pho tom yum, sukiyaki, kelp noodle substitute. Boba, teas, coffee. $ L Mon.-Fri.; D Wed.-Sat. SAKE HOUSE JAPANESE GRILL SUSHI BAR #1 824 Lomax St., Five Points, 301-1188 #2 1478 Riverplace Blvd., San Marco, 306-2188, sakehousejax.com Sake House serves traditional Japanese cuisine and a wide variety of fresh sushi, sashimi, kiatsu, teriyaki and hibachi in an authentic atmosphere. Sake, too. A tatami room, with outside seating, is open.

• $$ BW L D Daily SAKE SUSHI 8206 Philips Hwy., Ste. 31, Southside, 647-6000, jacksonvillesakesushi.com Sushi, hibachi, teriyaki, tempura, katsu, donburi and noodle soups are served. Popular rolls include Fuji Yama, Ocean Blue and Fat Boy. • $$ FB K L D Mon.-Sat. SAM WON GARDEN 4345 University Blvd. N., Ste. 1, Southside, 737-3650 The place serves mostly Korean fare, including steamed dumplings, grilled pork belly slices, chowdo soups, noodles, shredded raw beef in sesame oil and kimchi. • $$ K L D Mon.-Sat., D Nightly SEASONS OF JAPAN 4413 Town Center Pkwy., St. Johns Town Center, 329-1067, seasonsofjapan.com The casual restaurant serves Japanese and hibachi-style fare, and sushi, quick-as-a-wink for busy shoppers. • $$ K TO L D Daily SUMO SUSHI 2726 Park St., Riverside, 388-8838, sumosushijax.com Authentic Japanese dishes, from traditional to new styles of entrées and sushi rolls, like spicy sashimi salad, gyoza (pork dumplings), tobiko (flying fish roe) and rainbow roll (tuna, salmon, yellowtail and California roll) artfully presented. Cold sake is served. • $$ BW K L D Daily SUSHI CAFÉ 2025 Riverside Ave., Ste. 204, 384-2888, sushicafejacksonville.com A variety of sushi, like popular Monster Roll and Jimmy Smith Roll, plus faves like Rock-n-Roll and Dynamite Roll. Hibachi, tempura, katsu and teriyaki. Dine indoors or on the patio. • $$ BW L D Daily SUSHI HOUSE 9810 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 12, 997-0966, sushihousebaymeadows.com The quaint spot has a variety of specialty rolls, sushi and sashimi, tempura, katsu, teriyaki and hibachi entrées. • $$ BW TO L D Daily SUSHI & SUB 5800 Beach Blvd., St. Nicholas, 858-7032 Sushi & Subs serves, that’s right … sushi and subs. Take-out is available at the family-owned sushi nook. • $ TO L D Mon.-Sat. TAMA’S SUSHI RESTAURANT 106 First St., Beaches Town Center, Neptune Beach, 241-0099, tamassushi.com The casual spot has a full sushi bar, and tempura, teriyaki and katsu dishes. Sake is served. • $ BW D Tue.-Sun. TOMO JAPANESE CUISINE & ART 1253 Penman Rd., Jax Beach, 372-4369, tomojapanesejacksonville.com Fresh, authentic, upscale Japanese cuisine — it’s Japanese-owned.

Fresh handmade sushi, hibachi grill items and homemade-style dishes. • $$ FB K L D Tue.-Sun. WAKAME JAPANESE & THAI CUISINE 104 Bartram Oaks Walk, Ste. 108, Julington, 230-6688, wakamejax.com The fine-dining restaurant offers authentic Japanese and Thai cuisine, a full sushi menu, curries and pad dishes. • $$ BW K L D Daily WASABI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR 10206 River Coast Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 997-6528, wasabi-steakhouse.com Wasabi serves authentic Japanese cuisine, teppanyaki shows, and a full sushi menu. • $$$ FB K L D Daily YUMMY SUSHI 4372 Southside Blvd., Ste. 207, Tinseltown, 998-8806, yummysushijax.com Yummy’s menu has teriyaki, tempura and hibachi-style dinners, sushi, sashimi, and more than 30 specialty rolls. Lunch roll specials Mon.-Fri. Sake is served. • $$ BW L D Daily

MEXICAN, CUBAN, CARIBBEAN, PERUVIAN, SPANISH & TEX-MEX CUISINE

BAHAMA BREEZE 10205 River Coast Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 646-1031, bahamabreeze.com Caribbean-inspired cuisine and tropical drinks in an island atmosphere. Menu items include lobster quesadillas, chipotle beef

rice bowls, and fried yucca. • $$$ FB K TO L D Daily BARBERITOS 1519 Sadler Rd., Fernandina Beach, 277-2505 463867 S.R. 200, Ste. 5, Yulee, 321-2240 4320 Deerwood Lake Pkwy., Ste. 106, Southside, 807-9060, barberitos.com The idea is quick serve, not fast food. Specializing in Southwestern fare, Barberitos offers made-to-order fresh faves, like burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos and salads. The salsa is handcrafted from fresh tomatoes, cilantro, onions and peppers. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily BEIGNET’S CARIBBEAN CAFÉ 4770 Barnes Rd., Ste. 1, Southside, 737-6789 A taste of the Caribbean includes items like jerk chicken, oxtail, goat, mahi sandwiches, and Caribbean beignets with coffee from New Orleans Cafe Du Monde. • $ BW B L D Mon.-Sat. BLUE WATER DAIQUIRI & OYSTER BAR 205 First St. N., Jax Beach, 249-0083, bluewateroysterbar.com The casual spot features American fare with a Caribbean soul. Kids eat free on Tue. There’s live music on the weekends. • $$ FB K L D Tue.-Sun.; R Sun. CAMPECHE BAY CANTINA 127 First Ave. N., Jax Beach, 249-3322, campechebaycantina.com Campeche Bay has often won our readers’ poll awards for Best Mexican Restaurant, Best Fajitas and Best Margaritas. Customers favor chili rellenos, tamales, fajitas, enchiladas, fish tacos, fried ice cream and homemade margaritas — to say nothing of the two daily happy hours. • $$ FB K D Nightly; R Sat.-Sun. CANTINA LAREDO 10282 Bistro Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 997-6110, cantinalaredo.com Authentic Mexican dishes served in a sophisticated atmosphere.

The daily fish specials, grilled chicken and steaks are complimented by signature sauces like chipotle-wine with portobello mushrooms or sautéed artichoke hearts and roasted red bell peppers. • $$ FB K R L D Daily CANTINA LOUIE 1900 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 770-2608 The affordable, fun Mexican cantina specializes in innovative tacos and authentic Mexican street food. • $ FB K L D Daily CANTINA MAYA SPORTS BAR & GRILLE 1021 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 247-3227 The popular spot serves great margaritas, great Latin food and burgers.

And there’s always plenty of sports on TVs. • $$ FB K L D Tue.-Sun. CASA MARIA 12961 N. Main St., Ste. 104, Northside, 757-6411 2429 S. Third St., Jax Beach, 372-9000, casamariajaxbeach.com 14965 Old St. Augustine Rd., Southside, 619-8186, casamariajax.com The family-owned-and-operated restaurant offers authentic Mexican food, including fajitas, burritos and seafood dishes, as well as a variety of hot sauces — ones made in-house. The specialty is carne asada.

Margaritas. At the beach spot, dine on the patio. • $ FB K L D Daily CASA MAYA 17 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 217-3039 Owner Marco Barrera serves authentic upscale Mayan cuisine that is mostly organic, including a juice bar and daily specials. Located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Casa Maya offers a hearty selection of dishes, both vegetarian and meat. • $$ TO B L D Wed.-Sun. CASTILLO DE MEXICO 12620 Beach Blvd., Ste. 19, Intracoastal, 998-7006, castillodemexico.net The restaurant, in business for more than 15 years, offers an extensive menu served in authentic Mexican décor. Weekday lunch buffet. • $$ FB L D Daily CINCO DE MAYO 11892 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 997-2041 Jax Landing, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 329-2892, jacksonvillelanding.com Authentic fajitas, tacos, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas are offered. Dine in or outside. • $$ FB L D Daily CORNER TACO 818 Post St., 240-0412, cornertaco.com Made-from-scratch “semi-swanky street food” — tacos, nachos and salads — is served with an innovative presentation, with gluten-free and vegetarian options. • $ BW L D Tue.-Sun. DE REAL TING CAFÉ 128 W. Adams St., Downtown, 633-9738 The Caribbean restaurant has jerk or curried chicken, conch fritters and curried goat and oxtail. • $ FB TO L Tue.-Fri.; D Fri.-Sat. DON JUAN’S 12373 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 268-8722, donjuansjax.com Friendly, family-oriented service and a touch of Old Mexico: patio dining. A full bar — with tequila selections — is served; happy hour Mon.-Fri. • $ FB K L D Daily

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE >>> AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 25

GIVE THE CROWD WHAT THEY WANT CONCESSIONS C ONCESSIONS A AT T EVERBANK FIELD TRY TO KEEP PACE WITH NATIONAL FOOD TRENDS BID FAREWELL TO STADIUM WEENIES, SOGGY BOILED PEANUTS, AND THE HARROWING TASK OF FLAGGING DOWN THE VENDOR for a sticky mess of cotton candy

on a steamy Sunday in Northeast Florida.

Nowadays, EverBank Field feeds fans a plethora of options sure to satisfy. Where else can you sip a local brew while perusing grub options from local food trucks parked onsite? Alas, the stadium that brought you mammoth video boards and even swimming pools still has tricks up its sleeve.

Ryan Prep, general manager at Ovations, food service provider at EverBank Field’s main concourses, spoke to Folio Weekly about what works at Jags games as well as new options for fans. Bento Café will offer teriyaki chicken rice bowls in Section 141, and local barbecue chain, Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, will bring its homestyle cookin’ to the masses. A great hit these past couple of seasons has been Food Truck Alley, where about 20 area food trucks line up to sell their noshes to hungry spectators.

Though it is a departure from tradition, EverBank’s food transition is part of a national trend.

As a restaurants and their customers have grown more partial to food that is sourced from local farms and incorporates local flavors, stadiums and ballparks across the U.S. have been eager to jump on the latest food bandwagon. By deviating from fast-food chains on game day, fans can enjoy regional favorites that, even if they aren’t so healthy, are fresher and more palatable than your average processed nacho cheese goo.

Such food trends show up in stadiums and ballparks across the country, according to Men’s Health and Forbes. The magazines describe destinations such as Minute Maid Park in Houston that offer the fresh Tex Mex specialties of a celebrity chef for Astros fans. They also elaborate on other healthful facts, such as how ballparks now use oil with no transfats to fry their various delicacies. However, the fare doesn’t always have to be healthy for fans to embrace new food movements — it’s just got to be a local trademark.

This local food movement goes beyond the concern for public health (though glutenfree hot dogs and other snacks are available at EverBank). It’s about staying culturally relevant in all areas of the game day experience, and the vittles are a vital component.

“We are evolving to trends in the food and beverage industry,” says Prep, “we don’t want to stay stagnant.”

The changes in game day diets have struck gold in Duval, calling attention to local 26 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

Whether at Burrito Gallery’s East Touchdown Club concession or among the fans in the stands, kitchen manager Anton Van Buskirk and general manager Paul Shockey offer a superior gameday dining experience.

flavors from hot spots around town, such as Burrito Gallery.

The Jaguars approached Burrito Gallery seven or eight years ago to ask if the local restaurant would be a team sponsor. The opportunity to use the logo and sell food at the games was an exciting one, according to Burrito Gallery co-founder and general manager Paul Shockey.

When the restaurant started doing business with the Jags, it was a break-even deal. Even though BG wasn’t making money at the start, it was all about “being there, having the exposure. We were excited about that option,” says Shockey.

Burrito Gallery gets involved with ingame promotions as well, such as giving out free burrito vouchers or offering BG T-shirts with the Jags logo, all wrapped up in foil to look like a burrito.

And Burrito Gallery mascot Uncle Sanchez says the restaurant has gone to great lengths to be part of the game day atmosphere, even after the game’s over.

“We used to not be open Sundays, but now we are, so on game day if fans don’t want to wait around in traffic after, they can pull in for a drink and something to nibble on.”

By teaming with Ovations, BG was able to customize its own concourse location and prep and serve the food like they do in the brick-and-mortar spots. Over the years, BG has been able to turn a profit from this deal at EverBank, one burrito at a time.

The kitchen at EverBank cranks out crowdpleasers like chicken and steak quesadillas, burritos, and nachos.

“We try to keep it simple,” says Shockey, “the food has to be the same as when you walk in the door of Burrito Gallery.”

Last year, the restaurant struck a deal with Levy, the food service provider for club seating and suites, to put an Uptown Kitchen (the Springfield fave) in the stadium’s Touchdown Club. With a continued emphasis on freshness like its neighbor BG, this newer spot keeps its menu simple with paninis, salads, and a dank Cuban sandwich.

According to Shockey, Uptown Kitchen’s Chef Eddy is currently concocting new menu items for the 2015 season.

Barbara Bent mail@folioweekly.com

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<<< FROM PREVIOUS 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. Wi-Fi. • $$ K L D Tue.-Sat. EL POTRO 7200 Normandy Blvd., Ste. 12, Northside, 378-9822 1553 N. Third St., Jax Beach, 241-6910 226 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 819-0390, elpotrorestaurant.com Family-friendly, El Potro cooks everything fresh, made-to-order — fast, hot and simple. It’s a friendly spot — there’s even a photo of an ICE agent on the wall! Daily specials and a buffet at most locations.

• $ FB L D Daily EL RANCHITO 14333 Beach Blvd., Ste. 22, Intracoastal, 992-4607 The restaurant has Latin American cuisine, including dishes from Colombia, Cuba and Mexico. Closed Tuesdays. • $$ BW K TO L D Wed.-Mon. ESPAÑA RESTAURANT & TAPAS 22 S. Fourth St., Fernandina Beach, 261-7700, espanadowntown.com Owners Marina and Roberto Pestana specialize in traditional flavors from Spain and Portugal, including caracoles (Andalusia-style escargot) and gambas al ajillo (shrimp and garlic, sautéed with sherry and cream). Tapas includes ceviche; homemade sangria. • $$$ FB K D Mon.-Sun. FLYING IGUANA TAQUERIA & TEQUILA BAR 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 853-5680, flyingiguna.com The funky spot serves a fusion of Latin American and Southwesterninfluenced fare — tacos, seafood, carnitas, Cubana sandwiches.

More than 100 tequilas. Outdoor seating available. Live music Thur.-Sun. • $ FB L D Daily HAVANA-JAX CAFÉ/CUBA LIBRE BAR 2578 Atlantic Blvd., St. Nicholas, 399-0609, havanajax.com The Cuban sandwiches served in the café are the real thing: big, thick and flattened. Other faves include 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. Happy hour all day, every day.

• $ FB K L D Daily HOLA CUBAN CAFE 117 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 321-0163, holacubancafe.com Tucked away behind the Palace Saloon and owned by real Cubans, Hola serves authentic Cuban sandwiches and Cuban coffee. And Cuban sodas, too: Iron Beer, Materva and Jupiña. Dine inside or outside under umbrella tables. Dog-friendly patio. Delivery within Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach available. • $ TO L Wed.-Mon. HOLA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1001 N. Main St., Springfield, 356-3100, holamexicanrestaurant.com Customers drive from all over to this spot. Hola offers fresh Mexican fare, like fajitas, burritos and enchiladas, and has daily specials.

Happy hour starts at 2 p.m. every day. There’s sangria, too. • $ BW K TO L D Mon.-Sat. ISLAND TROPICS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 2527 N. Main St., Northside, 355-3050, islandtropics.net The Caribbean spot is a comfy, relaxed place serving island dishes like fried plantain and codfish for breakfast, and curry goat, jerk chicken and hot wings for lunch and dinner. Desserts, baked goods

and tropical drinks are available. Island Tropics specializes in vegetarian meals. • $$ BW TO B L D Daily LA COCINA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3290 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 794-1610, lacocinamexican.info Sister restaurant to La Cocina at the beach, this one offers gourmet Mexican cuisine in a fine-dining atmosphere. Patio dining. • $$-$$$ BW L D Daily LA NOPALERA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1631 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 399-1768 4530 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 388-8828 14333 Beach Blvd., Intracoastal, 992-1666 1930 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 276-2776 1571 C.R. 220, Ste. 100, Fleming Island, 215-2223 11700 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 288-0175 8818 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 720-0106 8206 Philips Hwy., Baymeadows, 732-9433, lanopalerarest.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The popular spots offer tamales, fajitas and pork tacos. Some locations have a full bar. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily LOLA’S BURRITO JOINT 1522 King St., Riverside, 738-7181, lolasburritojoint.com Latin-themed Lola’s offers more than 25 kinds of freshcooked-to-order burritos, plus burgers, tacos, empanadas and yucca fries. More than 50 craft beers, some local, as well as signature margaritas. Sunday brunch features bottomless mimosas. • $$ FB K R L D Daily LOS LOROS MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5210 Baymeadows Rd., 367-8633, loslorosjax.com Los Loros serves authentic Mexican fare, including fajitas and vegetarian dishes. Margaritas are featured. • $ FB K L D Daily MAMBOS CUBAN CAFE & PIZZERIA 13770 Beach Blvd., Ste. 9, Intracoastal, 374-2046, mamboscubancafe.com Authentic Cuban cuisine and cocktails, including ropa vieja, bistec, pollo, picadillo and lechon asada and mojitos. The Cuban sandwich is a customer favorite. DJs spin Latin music every Fri.-Sat. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily MANGO MANGO’S BEACHSIDE BAR & GRILL 700 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 461-1077, mangomangos.com 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. • $$ BW K L D Daily MI VERACRUZ MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3109 Spring Park Rd., Southside, 396-2626 Authentic Mexican fare, for dine in or take out. Margaritas are featured. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily THE MOSSFIRE GRILL 1537 Margaret St., Riverside, 355-4434, mossfire.com Just a stone’s throw from the Five Points intersection, Mossfire serves Southwestern dishes like fresh fish tacos and chicken enchiladas. Happy hour Mon.-Sat. in upstairs lounge. Sunday happy hour all day. • $$ FB K L D Daily PABLO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 12 N. Second St., Fernandina Beach, 261-0049 Pablo’s, in Fernandina’s historic district, serves authentic Mexican fare like chimichangas, fajitas — and vegetarian dishes. Dine inside or out on the brick patio. • $$ BW K L D Daily PEPE’S HACIENDA Y RESTAURANT 3615 DuPont Ave., Ste. 900, Lakewood, 636-8131 The place includes an ethnic grocery store. Pepe’s offers authentic burritos, tortillas, seafood, soups and fresh-baked in-house breads.

• $$ BW K TO B L D Daily PEPPER’S MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA 530 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 277-2011 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 1, Intracoastal, 221-2300 96096 Lofton Square Ct., Yulee, 491-6955 The casual, family-friendly restaurant features daily specials, and happy hour runs all day, every day. Margaritas are featured. • $$ FB K L D Daily

THE PIER CANTINA & SANDBAR 412 First St. N., Jax Beach, 246-6454, thepierjax.com The casual oceanfront restaurant offers a Mexican-influenced menu.

Downstairs in the Sandbar, there’s live music at night. Dine indoors or on the oceanfront patio. Margaritas and mojitos are featured.

Happy hour Mon.-Fri. • $$$ FB TO L D Daily PISCO’S RESTAURANT 4131 Southside Blvd., Ste. 101, 646-3888, piscosrestaurant.com The Peruvian restaurant offers ceviche, jalea, lomo and pollo saltado, arroz con marisco, Inca Cola and Peruvian wines. • $$$ BW K L D Daily POLLO TROPICAL 13776 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 288-7917 10989 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 288-5990 4863 Gate Pkwy., Southside, 646-9707 730 Skymarks Dr., Northside, 757-2148 9370 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 769-7696, pollotropical.com The menu is influenced by Caribbean, Latin America and Miami cuisine, resulting in citrus-marinated, tropical spiced grilled chicken dishes. • $ K TO L D Daily PUERTO PLATA RESTAURANT 2045 Bayview Rd., Westside, 388-5888 The restaurant, off Blanding Boulevard, offers authentic Latin cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Specialties include roast pork, chuletas and pollo guisado. • $$ BW K L D Daily PUSSER’S CARIBBEAN BAR & GRILLE 816 A1A N., Ste. 100, Ponte Vedra, 280-7766, pussersusa.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Named for the rum, Pusser’s serves innovative Caribbean cuisine and regional favorites, like Jamaican grilled pork ribs, Trinidad smoked duck, lobster macaroni & cheese dinner. Tropical drinks, including Pussers Painkiller, are popular house remedies. Live music on the Upper Deck. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily SALSAS MEXICAN RESTAURANT 13500 Beach Blvd., Ste. 46, Intracoastal, 992-8402 9475 Philips Hwy., Southside, 538-0606, salsasmexicanrestaurants.com Authentic, fresh Mexican fare prepared from scratch with fresh ingredients. Daily specials. Dine indoors or on the large patio outside. • $$ BW K L D Daily SALSARITA’S FRESH CANTINA 840 Nautica Dr., Ste. 131, Northside, 696-4001, salsaritas.com Salsarita’s offers cuisine with a Southwest flavor made from scratch daily and served in a family atmosphere. Delivery is available. • $ BW K L D Daily SAUCY TACO 450 S.R. 13 N., Ste. 113, Julington Creek, 287-8226, saucytaco.com Authentic light Mexican and American influences are apparent in each dish. There are 40 beers on draft. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily SURFING SOMBREROS 221 First St. N., Jax Beach, 834-9377 The new place serves a substantial menu of authentic items diners can enjoy gazing at the Atlantic Ocean — like paella. Drink specials.

Dine inside or outside.• $ FB L D Daily TACOLU BAJA MEXICANA 1712 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 249-8226, tacolu.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Fresh, Baja-style fare with a focus on fish tacos, tequila (more than 135 kinds) and mezcal (20 and counting). Menu highlights include bangin’ shrimp, carne asada and carnitas, as well as daily fresh fish selections. The guacamole is made fresh every day, too. And the tequila selection is something else. • $$ FB K R Sat. & Sun.; L D Tue.-Sun. TEMPO 16 Cathedral Pl., St. Augustine, 342-0286 The fusion restaurant offers healthful American fare with a Latin flair. • $$ BW L D Tue.-Sun.

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE >>>

Enjoy handcrafted burgers and homespun fare at Jack and Diane’s in Frenandina Beach.

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<<< FROM PREVIOUS TIJUANA FLATS 9942 Old Baymeadows Rd., 641-1090 5907 Roosevelt Blvd., Ste. 100, Westside, 908-4343 13529 Beach Blvd., Intracoastal, 223-0041 5635 San Jose Blvd., Lakewood, 737-9938 13820 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 262-0484 2025 Riverside Ave., Ste. 205, 389-5630, tijuanaflats.com The fresh Tex-Mex menu features a hot bar with rotating sauces to supply any degree of heat. There’s not a microwave or freezer in sight — everything is made from fresh ingredients. • $ BW K TO L D Daily TOSSGREEN 4375 Southside Blvd., Ste. 12, 619-4356, tossgreen.com The “fast-casual” place has custom salads, burritos or burrito bowls from 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 VIVA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 2467 Faye Rd., Ste. 10, Northside, 527-1261 The chef at this authentic South of the Border place creates dishes with a Southern Mexican influence, including fajitas, tacos, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas made with fresh ingredients and authentic spices and served in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Margaritas are served. • $ FB K L D Daily

NEIGHBORHOOD HANGOUTS

A1A ALE WORKS 1 King St., St. Augustine, 829-2977, a1aaleworks.com The two-story brew pub, overlooking the restored Bridge of Lions, makes six varieties of beer and serves New World cuisine, indoors or out on the balcony. There’s live music Thur., Fri. and Sat. • $$ FB L D Daily ALICE & PETE’S PUB 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra, 285-7777, sawgrassmarriott.com Inspired by World Golf Hall of Famers Alice and Pete Dye, architects of Stadium and Valley courses, the pub offers Northeast Florida flavors and Alice & Pete’s favorites, like Dominican black bean soup and Pete’s bourbon pecan pie. Outside dining. • $$$ FB L D Daily ANGIE’S SUBS 1436 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 246-2519 ANGIE’S GROM SUBS 204 Third Ave. S., Jax Beach, 241-3663 2014 Best of Jax Winner Home of the original baked sub, Angie’s has been serving a variety of subs, made with the freshest ingredients, to devoted locals for more than 25 years. One word: Peruvian. In addition to hot or cold subs, Angie’s offers huge salads and blue-ribbon iced tea. Grom, the kid brother of the original Angie’s, serves a variety of subs, but no alcohol. • $ BW TO L D Mon.-Sat.; L Sun. THE ANNEX 1508 King St., Riverside, 379-6968, annexjax.com Adjacent to the Silver Cow, The Annex serves 46 craft beers & ciders, wines. Bigscreen TVs, games. Retro candy bar. Happy hour 4-8 p.m. • $$ BW D Daily.

BEACHCOMBER RESTAURANT 2 A St., St. Augustine Beach, 471-3744 One of the few spots in St. Augustine where you can eat on the beach, the casual spot serves a full lunch and dinner menu like fresh local oysters, shrimp, seafood and Beachcomber’s awardwinning chowder. Dine inside or out at picnic tables. $$ BW K L D Daily BEACH HUT CAFÉ 1281 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 249-3516 Celebrating more than 25 years in the biz, Beach Hut Café often wins the Best Breakfast category in our Best of Jax readers poll.

The full breakfast menu is served all day (featuring some darn good grits), and hot plate specials are offered Mon.-Fri. Expect a wait on weekends — this place packs out. • $ K TO B R L Daily BILLY’S BOAT HOUSE GRILL 2321 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 241-9771, billysboathousegrill.com Located at Beach Marine with a view of the Intracoastal Waterway, Billy’s focuses on fresh local seafood and hand-trimmed steaks.

There’s trivia every Mon., and oyster and wing specials every Thur.

Live music Wed.-Sun. • $$ FB K R, Sat.-Sun.; L D Daily THE BLIND RABBIT WHISKEY BAR 901 King St., Riverside, 337-0146 311 N. Third St., Jax Beach, 595-5915, theblindrabbitwhiskeybar.com The new spot serves a variety of New American burgers — try the whiskey smoked burger served on a brioche bun and a maple bacon milkshake for dessert. • $$ FB L D Daily CANDLELIGHT SOUTH 1 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 819-0588, candlelightsouth.com The casual restaurant, originally started in Scarsdale, N.Y., offers fish tacos, sandwiches, wings, desserts and sangria. Daily specials.

• $ BW K TO L D Daily CAP’S ON THE WATER 4325 Myrtle St., Vilano Beach, 824-8794, capsonthewater.com The Intracoastal restaurant is a Vilano Beach mainstay, serving coastal cuisine indoors or out on a large, oak-shaded deck. Kids romp along the water while grownups enjoy a long meal (fresh local shrimp, raw oyster bar) or a sunset. Boat access available. • $$ FB K L Fri.-Sun.; D Nightly CLIFF’S BAR & GRILL 3033 Monument Rd., Ste. 2, Intracoastal, 645-5162 Cliff’s features 8-ounce burgers, wings, seafood, homemade pizza and other daily specials, including the weekend handcut 12-ounce New York strip. Weekday happy hour; live music nightly. Smoking permitted. • $$ FB TO L D daily

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ENGINE 15 BREWING CO. 1500 Beach Blvd., Ste. 217, Jax Beach, 249-2337, engine15.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner The popular restaurant serves gastropub fare like soups, salads, flatbreads and specialty sandwiches, including bar-b-cuban and beer dip. Craft beers, too — ask how you can sign up for brew groups. • $ FB K L Tue.-Sun.; D Nightly EPIK BURGER 12740 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 105, Intracoastal, 374-7326, epikburger.com More than 35 burgers made from quality grass-fed beef, ahi tuna, all-natural chicken and vegan are created with innovative recipes; gluten-free options are available. • $ TO L D Mon.-Sat. EUROPEAN STREET CAFE 1704 San Marco Blvd., 398-9500 2753 Park St., Riverside, 384-9999 5500 Beach Blvd., Southside, 398-1717 992 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 249-3001, europeanstreet.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner With more than 130 imported beers, and 20 on tap, European Street (each location is family-owned-and-operated) knows its beers and ales. The New York City-style sandwich menu includes a classic Reuben and other overstuffed sandwiches. Outside seating is available at some locations. • $ BW K L D Daily FALCON’S NEST 39 Beach Lagoon Rd., Amelia Island, 261-6161, omnihotels.com Located at Omni Amelia Island Plantation, Falcon’s Nest offers specialty burgers, burritos, martinis. Airplane memorabilia decorates the island nightspot. 21 and older after 9 p.m. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. Live music Fri. • $$$ K FB D Nightly FLAVORS EATERY 125-C King St., St. Augustine, 824-4221, flavorseateryflorida.com The casual restaurant serves quesadillas, pizza and smoothies. Local music Thur.-Sat. Indoor and outdoor seating. • $ BW L D Mon.-Sat. GAS FULL SERVICE RESTAURANT 9 Anastasia Blvd., Ste. C, St. Augustine, 217-0326 The changing menu items are fresh, local and homemade. Casual fare like meatloaf and veggie and traditional burgers, seafood and steaks, as well as seasonal, daily specials and made-from-scratch desserts. It’s comfort food with an innovative twist. • $$ BW K TO L D Tue.-Sat. GIGI’S RESTAURANT 3130 Hartley Rd., Mandarin, 694-4300, gigisbuffet.com In the Ramada, Gigi’s serves a prime rib and crab leg buffet Fri. and Sat., blue-jean brunch on Sun., daily breakfast buffet and lunch and dinner buffets. • $$$ FB B R L D Daily GUMBO YAYA’S 1433 Beach Blvd., Ste. 101, Intracoastal, 223-0202, gumboyayas.com New Orleans/Cajun fare features gumbo (obvee, right?), po’boys, muffuletta, plates of crawfish, etouffee, jambalaya, shrimp, oysters, catfish. Daily specials, weekend low country boils, too. Climatecontrolled patio for outdoor dining. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily HAMBURGER MARY’S Bar & Grille 3333 Beach Blvd., Ste. 1, San Marco, 551-2048, hamburgermarys.com Wings, sammies, nachos, entrées, specialty drinks, burgers. Live entertainment. $$ K TO FB L D Daily HIGHTIDE BURRITO COMPANY 1538 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 683-7396, hightideburrito.com Locally-owned-and-operated by Alejandro Juarez, the casual Mexican place has homemade salsas, marinades and tortillas. Beef, pork, fish or cactus are served in burritos, tacos, salads or tortas. • $ FB K B L D Daily THE HYPPO 48 Charlotte St., St. Augustine, 217-7853 1765 Tree Blvd., Ste. 5, St. Augustine, 342-7816 70 St. George St., St. Augustine, 547-2980, thehyppo.com The popular spots offer popsicles of unexpected flavors, created with premium ingredients, as well as coffee pour-overs, cold-brew coffees and freshly handcrafted sandwiches and salads. The Charlotte location offers popsicles only. • $ TO Daily IZZY’S PIZZERIA & SPORTS BAR 8206 Philips Hwy., Baymeadows, 731-9797, izzyspizzaeria.com The spot in Baymeadows offers Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas, hot dogs and Italian dishes — and there are HD TVs at every booth.

Really. Drink specials. • $$ FB K L D Daily JIMMY HULA’S 13170 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 63, Intracoastal, 220-9001, jimmyhulas.com Beach-themed place serves fish tacos and burgers, craft beers and wines. • $ BW K TO L D Daily KARIBREW BREW PUB & GRUB 27 N. Third St., Amelia Island, 277-5269, cafekaribo.com Amelia Island’s first microbrewery, Karibrew is next door to its sister restaurant, Cafe Karibo. Karibrew offers a variety of beers, spirits and pub food. • $$ FB TO R Sun.; L Daily; D Tue.-Sun. KITCHEN ON SAN MARCO 1402 San Marco Blvd., 396-2344, kitchenonsanmarco.com New gastropub has local and national craft beers, specialty cocktails and a seasonal menu focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and cuisine. Now serving Sunday brunch. • $$ FB L D Daily THE MILL TOP TAVERN & LISTENING ROOM 19 1/2 St. George St., St. Augustine, 829-2329, milltoptavern.com A St. Augustine institution in the historic district, Mill Top has live music nightly. The St. Auggie Spread is the signature dish.

Homemade soups and sandwiches, daily specials. Dine indoors or under the trees on the two-story porch. • $ FB L D Daily MONKEY’S UNCLE TAVERN 1850 S. Third St., Jax Beach, 246-1070 10503 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 260-1349, monkeysuncletavern.com For more than 25 years, Monkey’s Uncle has served pub grub, including burgers, sandwiches, seafood and wings. Dine inside or out on the patio. Karaoke every Wed., Sat. and Sun. • $ FB TO L D Daily M SHACK 299 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 241-2599 1012 Margaret St., Riverside, 423-1283 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco 10281 Midtown Pkwy., Southside, 642-5000, mshackburgers.com

THE DOMAIN OF THE SANDWICH

WHO W HO R RULES ULES T THE HE L LUNCHTIME UNCH STAPLE AROUND JACKSONVILLE’S DOWNTOWN?

WITH THE STRESS S OF FAN NINEINE IN ETO-FIVE WORKDAY, LUNCH IS A SACRED HALF-HOUR (or hour, if

you’re lucky) that’s wisely and reverently spent.

People do not waste these precious 30 or 60 minutes fleeing to the nearest McDonald’s; no, lunch is the time to indulge, a time to commiserate with coworkers and, above all, a time for The Sandwich. And not just any old bread slapped together with an ounce of mayonnaise and two measly slices of meat in between. The hallowed lunch break deserves a special sandwich.

Perhaps no other place in Northeast Florida holds a better claim to being the domain of the lunchtime sandwich than the areas in and around Downtown’s urban core.

There are at least 15 delis from Avondale to downtown. Multiply that by the number of sandwiches each deli offers, and the choices can be overwhelming. To prevent laborious effort during a well-deserved break, Folio Weekly took on some of the most well-known lunch spots around the city’s urban core and tested the most popular sandwich at each.

JOHNNY’S DELI & GRILLE // RIVERSIDE On Riverside Avenue at Forest Street is a restaurant that has owned that corner for about nine years. As the growing Brooklyn Station brings more lunch-goers to Riverside Avenue, Johnny’s continues to offer fresh sandwiches and wraps. Manager Johnny V, whose accent reveals his New York heritage, recommends the Grilled Chicken Pita ($7.25), which is the first item on the menu.

It’s a simple sandwich, with chicken, lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing. The warm, doughy pita that surrounds it elevates its cachet beyond the typical chicken sandwich; it’s toasty, reliable, and just plain good. The best thing about Johnny’s might be Johnny himself, who will greet you like an old friend and strike up a conversation, no matter how busy his restaurant is.

EUROPEAN STREET CAFÉ // SAN MARCO European Street has been around since the ’80s. With counters full of candy and more than 200 beers, the café is a place for the young and the old. A German-inspired sandwich is European Street’s most popular: The Blue Max ($9.50) is an intense combination of

smoked pastrami, mustard, corned sm okked d past tramii hot hott mus u tard d corn ned d bbeef, eeff Swiss cheese, blue cheese dressing and — the real kicker — sauerkraut. The mustard and sauerkraut are the strongest flavors in this zingy, warm sandwich. The fermented cabbage does what pickles usually do: Provide a tangy crunch that completes the sandwich. Lest this meal be too overwhelming, the blue cheese saves the day by cooling down the flavors.

Spicy, sour, and creamy, Blue Max is certainly not for the fainthearted.

PINEGROVE MARKET & DELI // AVONDALE A midday break along Pinegrove Avenue wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Pinegrove Deli, where the steaks are dry-aged and drivers battle over what should be ample parking, but due to Pinegrove’s popularity, well, isn’t. The small restaurant staff has been perfecting its butchering skills for more than 40 years, but the menu includes much more than just beef. At Pinegrove, try The Stu ($10), a chicken salad mixture on a ciabatta roll, with bacon, cheese, tomato, and tabouli. The chicken is moist enough without being flooded with mayonnaise, while the couscous in the tabouli calms the taste of parsley. With each crunchy, savory bite of The Stu, one hopes the chicken won’t fall out of the bread — if it does, just scrape the meat back in with some of Pinegrove’s house chips.

AKEL’S DELICATESSEN // DOWNTOWN The Akels have been cooking since 1973, when Tanya Ganim’s father immigrated to New York and opened the first Akel’s Delicatessen with his brothers. The family moved to Jacksonville in 1988, and there are now three Akel’s locations.

The most popular sandwich here proves that Jacksonvillians love grilled chicken pitas. This Mediterranean-style pita ($6.99) includes tabouli and tzatziki sauce that blend well together in a way that highlights the fresh parsley and mint that surround the mesquite chicken. The sandwich is easy to hold and enjoy, especially for those who appreciate a Mediterranean twist. Fair warning: It’s drippy, but good.

Any of these restaurants — and many more in the area — comfort the weary Downtown worker with the assurance that, come noontime, the sandwiches will still be there, as they’ve always been.

Rebecca Gibson mail@folioweekly.com

The newly reopened Beech Street Grill in Fernandina Beach is housed in a historic Amelia Island home and features live music on the weekends.

2014 Best of Jax Winner Brothers David and Matthew Medure are flippin’ burgers at these restaurants, featuring a variety of burgers, hot dogs, fries, shakes and more familiar fare at moderate prices. Dine indoors or outside for great people-watching at Beaches Town Center, St. Johns Town Center and Riverside. The San Marco M Shack is a limited-menu food truck. • $$ BW L D Daily MURRAY BROS. CADDYSHACK 455 S. Legacy Trail, St. Augustine, 940-3673, murraybroscaddyshack.com Decorated in a Caddyshack theme with actor Bill Murray’s golf and family memorabilia, the World Golf Village restaurant has fresh seafood, steaks and barbecue. Weekday happy hour. • $$ FB L D Daily OASIS RESTAURANT & DECK 4000 A1A & Ocean Trace Rd., St. Augustine Beach, 471-3424 Just a block from the Atlantic, The Oasis is a favorite spot for burgers and daily specials, 24 draft beers, happy hour Mon.-Fri., live music nightly. • $ FB K B L D Daily O’STEEN’S 205 Anastasia Blvd., Anastasia Island, 829-6974, osteensrestaurant.com Packing a crowd for more than 45 years. Seafood and steak and famous fried shrimp. And it’s no alcohol, no smoking, no reservations and no plastic — cash only. • $$ K L D Tue.-Sat. PANAMA HATTIE’S 361 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 471-2192, panamahattiesbar.com Across from St. Johns County pier, the spot serves casual beach fare in a Key West-style atmosphere. Live music. Dine inside or on the ocean-view deck upstairs. • $ FB L D Daily PARKWAY GRILLE 5517 S. Fletcher Ave., Fernandina Beach, 277-6614 Breakfast and lunch items are made daily with fresh ingredients, including a selection of Boar’s Head deli meats, in a bright and casual atmosphere. • $ TO B L Daily POE’S TAVERN 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 241-7637, poestavern.com/atlantic-beach Named for Baltimore’s own macabre poet Edgar Allan Poe, the American gastropub has 50-plus beers, gourmet hamburgers, ground in-house and cooked to order, plus hand-cut French fries, fish tacos, entrée-size salads, Edgar’s Drunken Chili and a daily fish sandwich special. • $$ FB K L D Daily RAIN DOGS 1045 Park St., Riverside, 379-4969 Bar food and live music. • $ D RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT 106 St. George St., St. Augustine, 824-1090 Beer is the specialty at the German-style beer house, with more than 200 varieties from around the world, with a rotating draft selection.

Pair one with a hot or cold deli sandwich. The kitchen’s open for late lunch during the week, till 2 a.m. Fri. and Sat. • $$ BW TO L D Daily SALTWATER COWBOYS 299 Dondanville Rd., St. Augustine Beach, 471-2332, saltwatercowboys.com The popular landmark restaurant serves tourists and locals in a turn-of-the-century fish camp amid saltwater marshes. Local seafood, barbecue, ribs and chicken. • $$ BW D Nightly SEA PORCH BAR & GRILL 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Sawgrass Marriott, 285-7777, sawgrassmarriott.com This oceanfront spot offers casual cuisine — shirt and shoes required, though — served in a nautical atmosphere. Dine indoors or outside on the patio. • $ FB K L D Tue.-Sun. THE SHIM SHAM ROOM 333 First St. N., Ste. 150, Jax Beach, 372-0781, shimshamroom. com 2014 Best of Jax Winner This joint, in the heart of Jax Beach’s entertainment district, offers a seasonal menu of “cheap eats”: tasty bar bites like chicken and waffles, badass fries and tacos. There’s live music of one kind or

another most nights, and plenty of libations to add to a party vibe. • $$ FB D Nightly SILVER COW 1506 King St., Riverside, 379-6968, silvercowjax.com Laid-back, cozy, subdued spot serves craft beers, wines. Nightly specials. Happy hour 4-7. The full menu is ever-expanding. • $$ BW L D Daily.

SMASHBURGER 630 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 241-2666, smashburger.com Do-it-yourself burgers and chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, sides and fries are served at this popular beach spot.

• $ BW K TO L D Daily STIR IT UP 18 A St., St. Augustine Beach, 461-4552, stiritupstaug.com Reggae-named fresh sandwiches, wraps and smoothies are served just steps from the ocean. Try Burrita Marley (hummus and avocado burrito) or Pita Tosh (turkey, hummus and sprouts). • $ K TO L Daily; D Thur.-Sat. SUNSET GRILLE 421 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 471-5555, sunsetgrillea1a.com The Key West-style restaurant serves fresh local seafood, steaks and sandwiches inside or at open-air counters. Celebrating 20-plus years, the Grille has a new deck. • $$$ FB K TO L D Daily TAPA THAT 820 Lomax St., 5 Points, 376-9911, tapathat.com The place puts a modern spin on traditional tapas-style service, using locally and organically grown items as much as possible.

Specialties include duck confit spring rolls and Cuban rice & beans cake. Dine outdoors or inside. • $$ BW R Sat. & Sun.; L D Tue.-Sat. TAPS BAR & GRILL 2220 C.R. 210 W., Ste. 314, St. Johns, 819-1554 1605 C.R. 220, Fleming Island, 278-9421, tapspublichouse.com This restaurant offers more than 50 premium domestic and imported beers on tap along with a full bar. The menu has starters, burgers, sandwiches, entrees and a kids’ selection, all prepared to order with fresh ingredients. And there are lots of TVs for watching sports. • $$ FB K L D Daily TASTY’S BURGERS & FRIES 710 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 321-0409, tastysamelia.com In Fernandina Beach’s historic district, Tasty’s is a fresh fast-food alternative, with an innovative approach to combining the freshest meats, hand-cut fries, homemade sauces and soups and hand-spun shakes. • $ BW K L D Daily TOM & BETTY’S 4409 Roosevelt Blvd., Ortega, 387-3311 With 45 years in business, Tom & Betty’s is a Jacksonville institution.

The car-themed menu has big sandwiches, burgers and favorite homestyle entrées like pot roast. Daily happy hour has $1.75 domestic bottles. Live music every Fri.; Karaoke every Sat. • $$ FB K TO L D Tue.-Sun. T-RAY’S BURGER STATION 202 S. Eighth St., Fernandina Beach, 261-6310 2014 Best of Jax Winner This hidden gem is actually inside an old gas station, but it doesn’t escape the notice of tourists or locals. T-Ray’s often wins Best Burger on Amelia Island in our Best of Jax reader’s poll, and is famous on the island for its blue plate specials. • $ BW TO B L Mon.-Sat. THE WELL WATERING HOLE 3928 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 9, 737-7740, thewellwateringhole.com A new bistro for local craft beers, wine by the glass or bottle and champagne cocktails. Meatloaf sandwiches, pulled Peruvian chicken, homestyle vegan black bean burgers. • $$ BW K TO D Tue.-Sat.; L Mon.-Fri. WHISKEY JAX 10915 Baymeadows, Ste. 135, 634-7208, whiskeyjax.com The new gastropub has craft beers, burgers, handhelds, tacos and

whiskey. • $$ FB L D Sat. & Sun.; D Daily.

ZETA BREWING COMPANY 131 First Ave. N., Jax Beach, 372-0727, zetajax.com Zeta is now brewing its own beer, hence the name change. This place has tapas and sharing plates, big-deal nachos, pizzas, wings, tacos, flats, salads, sandwiches and burgers. Cocktails, martinis and moonshine, too. It’s late-night upscale urban fusion. • $$ FB L D Daily

PIZZERIAS

ALE PIE HOUSE 3951 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 503-8000, alepiehouse.com Pizza made your way — New York, Chicago, gluten-free — plus subs, paninis, calzones, strombolis, wraps and dinners. Gluten-free, vegan cheese available. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily AL’S PIZZA 303 Atlantic Blvd., Beaches Town Center, Atlantic Beach, 249-0002 11190 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 260-4115 635 A1A, Ponte Vedra Beach, 543-1494 14286 Beach Blvd., Ste. 31, Intracoastal, 223-0991 1620 Margaret St., Ste. 201, Riverside, 388-8384 8060 Philips Hwy., Baymeadows Junction, 731-4300 1 St. George St., St. Augustine, 824-4383, alspizza.com Folio Weekly readers often vote for Al’s for Best Pizza in our annual BOJ poll. Celebrating more than 20 years and seven locations, Al’s offers a selection of New York-style and gourmet pizzas. All-day happy hour Mon.-Thur. • $ FB K TO L D Daily ARON’S PIZZA 650 Park Ave., Orange Park, 269-1007, aronspizza.com The extensive menu at this family-owned restaurant includes eggplant dishes, manicotti and New York-style pizzas. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily ARTÉ PIZZA 109 N. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 277-1515 The wood-fired oven renders specialty pizzas like a traditional Napoli pizzeria, topped with imported cheeses, plum tomatoes and other fresh ingredients. Arté serves authentic Italian dishes like eggplant parmigiana and caprese salad. Outside seating. • $$ TO L Fri.-Sun.; D Wed.-Mon. BIG PETE’S PIZZERIA ITALIAN RESTAURANT 118 N. Julia St., Downtown, 356-2680, bigpetes.net Big Pete’s makes everything from scratch, including pizza, calzones, baked ziti and wraps. Barbecue is served, too. • $ TO L D Mon.-Fri. BORRILLO’S PIZZA & SUBS 88 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 829-1133, borrillospizza.com John Zappa’s New York-style restaurant serves hot and cold subs, pasta dishes, and pizzas by the pie or slice. • $ BW K TO L D Daily BRICK OVEN PIZZERIA & GASTROPUB 1811 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island, 278-1770, brickovengastropub.com Family-owned-and-operated, this spot offers freshly made brickoven pizzas, specialty burgers, melts and wraps. Craft beers, too.

Gluten-free items are available. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily BROOKLYN PIZZA 13820 Old St. Augustine Rd., Bartram Park, 880-0020, brooklynpizzajax.com The owners are from Brooklyn, N.Y., so it makes sense that the Brooklyn Special Pizza is a customer fave. The menu features calzones, white pizza and homestyle lasagna. • $$ BW TO L D Daily BRUCCI’S PIZZA, PASTA, PANINIS 880 A1A, Ste. 8, Ponte Vedra Beach, 280-7677 540 S.R. 13, Ste. 10, Fruit Cove, 287-8317 13500 Beach Blvd., Ste. 36, Intracoastal, 223-6913, bruccispizza.com With three Northeast Florida spots, Brucci’s offers authentic New York-style pizza, pastas and desserts in a family atmosphere. Happy hour Mon.-Fri. • $ BW K TO L D Daily

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE >>> AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 31

THE RULES • VOTE online at FolioWeekly.Com • ONE ballot per person • Ballots MUST contain AT LEAST 30 legitimate responses in order tobe counted • Survey will TIME OUT if left unat tended for longer than 40 minutes • Please keep your answers LOCAL • Poll closes at Midnight FRIDAY, AUGUST 21

❑ ❑ ❑

Local Hero

Best Local Weirdo Best Thing to Happen to Northeast Florida in 2015

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Best Reason to Love Northeast Florida

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Best Local Trend

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Best Local Nonprofit

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Best Local Instagram Account

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Best Local Twitter Account

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Best Local Social Media Addict

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Best Local Sports Radio Personality

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Best Local News Website

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Best Local Investigative Reporter

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Best Local TV Anchor

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Best Local TV Sportscaster

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Best Local TV Newscast

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Best Local Columnist

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Best Local Environmental Activist

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Best Local Human Rights Activist

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Best Local Radio Personality

❑ 32 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

NEWS & MEDIA

Best Local Neighborhood

Best Local Facebook Page

Local Theater ❑ Best Production of 2015

❑ Best B&B in Jacksonville ❑ Best B&B on Amelia Island ❑ Best Museum ❑ Best B&B in St. Augustine ❑ Best Art Gallery ❑ Best Orthopedic Practice ❑ Best Art Exhibit of 2015 ❑ Best Day Spa ❑ Best Local Artist ❑ Best Hairstylist ❑ Best Public Art ❑ Best Plastic Surgeon ❑ Best Local Actor/Actress Best Doctor ❑ ❑ Best Local Author ❑ Best Chiropractor ❑ Best Local Cosplayer ❑ Best Local College ❑ Best Local Comedian ❑ Best Local Teacher ❑ Best Comedy Club ❑ Best Real Estate Agent Place to Attend ❑ Best a Concert ❑ Best Builder/Contractor ❑ Best Local Musician/Band ❑ Best Interior Designer ❑ Best Local Dance Club ❑ Best Hair Salon ❑ Best Concert of 2015 ❑ Best Health Club/Gym ❑ Best Dance Studio ❑ Best Health Food Store ❑ Best Gay/Lesbian Club ❑ Best Hookah Lounge ❑ Best Karaoke Place ❑ Best E-cigs/Vapor Shop ❑ Best Movie Theater ❑ Best Jewelry Store ❑ Best Open Mic Night ❑ Best Liquor Store ❑ Best Festival ❑ Best Lawyer ❑ Best Trivia Emcee ❑ Best Place to Buy a Car ❑ Best Live Music Club ❑ Best Skate Shop ❑ Best Local Drag Show ❑ Best Tattoo Shop ❑ Best Beach ❑ Best Veterinarian ❑ Best Place to Bike ❑ Best Comic Book Store ❑ Best Surf Spot ❑ Best Dive Shop Vintage Place to ❑ Best ❑ Best Clothing Store Kayak/Canoe

E L P M SA LLOT A B

Best Local TV Weather Forecaster

Best Local Radio Show

Best Local Radio Station Best Local TV Morning Show

Best Local Volunteer Effort

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT/ SPORTS & OUTDOORS Best Local Community Theater

Place for ❑ Best People-Watching Athlete in ❑ Best Northeast Florida

SHOPPING/ HEALTH & BEAUTY/ EDUCATION

❑ Best Bike Shop ❑ Best Clothing Store ❑ Best Hospital Hotel in ❑ Best Northeast Florida

❑ Best Record Store ❑ Best Farmers Market ❑ Best Surf Shop ❑ Best Yoga Studio ❑ Best Grocery Store ❑ Best Local Grocer ❑ Best Local Bookstore ❑ Best Dentist Local Spiritual ❑ Best Leader

WINNERS PUBLISHED SEPT. 23 & SEPT. 30 • folioweekly.com

Encourage your friends and customers to VOTE by sharing the poll on Facebook™ and Twitter® or by using the email prompt on the final page of the online ballot Thanks for reading FOLIO WEEKLY, where YOU are always the BEST!

Psychiatrist/ ❑ Best Therapist/Counselor/

Burger iin B ❑ BBest Jacksonville

❑ Best Antique Shop

Best Burger in Orange ❑ Park/Fleming Island

Social Worker

DINING & DRINKING

Burger in ❑ Best St. Augustine

hi ❑ BBest SSmoothie ❑ Best Tapas ❑ Best Thai Restaurant Vegan or ❑ Best Vegetarian Restaurant

SA BA MP LL LE OT

Bartender/ ❑ Best Mixologist

❑ Best Seafood ❑ Best Coffee Shop ❑ Best New Restaurant Pizza in ❑ Best Jacksonville

❑ Best Fish Camp ❑ Best Burrito Caribbean ❑ Best Restaurant

❑ Best Chicken Wings ❑ Best Chinese Restaurant Pizza in ❑ Best ❑ Best Soul Food St. Augustine ❑ Best Deli Pizza on ❑ Best Amelia Island ❑ Best Dessert Pizza in Orange Park/ ❑ Best Cupcake ❑ Best Fleming Island ❑ Best Food Truck Japanese ❑ Best Restaurant ❑ Best Chef ❑ Best Sushi ❑ Best Server Local Craft ❑ Best ❑ Best Frozen Yogurt Brewery ❑ Best Indian Restaurant Best Craft ❑ Cocktail Spot ❑ Best Italian Restaurant Mediterranean Restaurant on ❑ Best ❑ Best Restaurant Amelia Island Restaurant in ❑ Best Jacksonville Restaurant in ❑ Best Orange Park/ Fleming Island

Restaurant in ❑ Best St. Augustine

❑ Best Steak Mexican ❑ Best Restaurant

❑ Best Korean Restaurant ❑ Best Sandwich Shop

Best Neighborhood Bar on ❑ Amelia Island Neighborhood Bar in ❑ Best Jacksonville Neighborhood ❑ Best Bar in Orange Park/ Fleming Island

Neighborhood Bar ❑ Best in St. Augustine

❑ Best French Fries ❑ Best Dive Bar ❑ Best Beer Selection ❑ Best Late Night Spot ❑ Best Meal Under $10 ❑ Best Happy Hour ❑ Best Pub ❑ Best Sports Bar ❑ Best Wine List ❑ Best Barista ❑ Best Brewmaster ❑ Best Margarita

WIN with BEST OF JAX!

WIN with BEST OF JAX! YOUR VOTE COUNTS! When you VOTE for your favorite local people, places, and events, in BEST OF JAX, YOUR VOTE COUNTS! you VOTE for your you’ll be entered toWhen win a new, gorgeous bikefavorite like the one local people, places, and events, in BEST OF JAX, seen here, courtesy of ZENCOG Bicycle Company. you’ll be entered to win a new, gorgeous bike like the one seen here, courtesy of ZENCOG Bicycle Company.

❑ Best Brewery ❑ Best Bagel ❑ Best Bakery ❑ Best Barbecue Middle Eastern ❑ Best Restaurant ❑ Best Breakfast ❑ Best Brunch Burger on ❑ Best Amelia Island

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 33

<<< FROM PREVIOUS CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN 4712 River City Dr., Ste. 105, St. Johns Town Center, 421-0179, cpk.com The upscale yet casual spot offers innovative Cali-inspired dishes, pizzas, salads and sandwiches. Curbside pickup; free valet service with orders $20 or more. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily CARMELO’S MARKETPLACE & PIZZERIA 146 King St., St. Augustine, 494-6658, carmelosmarketplace.com In addition to New York-style brick-oven-baked pizza, Carmelo’s has freshly baked sub rolls, Boar’s Head meats and cheeses, stromboli and garlic herb wings. Outdoor seating, Wi-Fi. • $$ BW TO L D Daily CHICAGO PIZZA & SPORTS GRILL Jax Landing, Downtown, 354-7747, chicagopizzajax Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas, hot dogs and Italian beef dishes are offered by the Comastro family from Chicago, serving Windy City faves for 25-plus years. They import ingredients all the way from exotic, far-away Illinois – talk about authentic. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily DaVINCI’S PIZZA 469 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 241-2001, davincispizzabar.com DaVinci’s customers are loyal to this family-owned-and-operated pizzeria, which uses fresh, quality ingredients for its pies. Free beaches area delivery; call for details. • $$ BW TO L D Tue.-Sun. JENK’S PIZZA 2245 C.R. 210 W., Ste. 112, Julington Creek, 826-1555, jenkspizza.com Family-owned-and-operated Jenk’s has subs, New York-style pizzas, calzones and a variety of Italian dishes. Delivery available. $ BW K TO L D Daily JOEY BROOKLYN FAMOUS PIZZERIA 7860 Gate Pkwy., Ste. 107, Southside, 683-8737 Joey Pizza features fresh dough, cheeses and meat toppings on their pizza pies; they also serve wings and Italian dishes.

• $$ BW TO B L D Daily JOSEPH’S PIZZA & ITALIAN RESTAURANT 30 Ocean Blvd., Beaches Town Center, Atlantic Beach, 270-1122 7316 N. Main St., Northside, 765-0335, josephspizza.com For 57 years, Joseph’s has been family-owned-and-operated. In addition to hot pasta dishes, gourmet pizzas and veal entrées, Joseph’s offers an extensive beer and wine selection. Open Mondays from Memorial Day to Labor Day at the beach. Delivery available at beaches location. • $$ BW TO K L D Daily; R Sat.-Sun. (only at beaches location) LIBRETTO’S PIZZERIA & ITALIAN KITCHEN 4880 Big Island Dr., Ste. 1, St. Johns Town Center, 402-8888, librettospizzeria.com Authentic NYC pizzeria brings Big Apple crust, cheese and sauce to Jax. Librettos serves third-generation family-style Italian classics, fresh-from-the-oven calzones, and desserts in a casual, comfy setting. • $$ TO L D Daily THE LOOP PIZZA GRILL 211 Third St., Neptune Beach, 241-8476 869 Sadler Rd., Fernandina Beach, 321-0093 4000 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 384-7301 8221 Southside Blvd., Deerwood, 645-7788 450 S.R. 13, Fruit Cove, 230-2202 9965 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 262-2210 550 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 269-0756 2014 San Marco Blvd., 399-5667 4413 Town Center Pkwy., St. Johns Town Center, 527-8900, looppizzagrill.com The Loop has been serving made-to-order pizza, wraps, fire-grilled items and truly great burgers for more than 30 years. It started here and now there are nine locally, with two more on the way.

One lifeguard we know just lives for the vanilla milkshakes. • $ BW K TO L D Daily MELLOW MUSHROOM PIZZA BAKERS 1018 Third St. N., Ste. 2, Jax Beach, 241-5600 3611 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 388-0200 9734 Deer Lake Ct., Ste. 1, Tinseltown, 997-1955 1800 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island, 541-1999 15170 Max Leggett Pkwy., Northside, opening soon 410 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 826-4040, mellowmushroom.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner This psychedelic spot serves gourmet pizzas with spring water dough, hoagies and salads. Pies range from Mighty Meaty to vegetarian like the Kosmic Karma. Mellow Mushroom offers 35 beers on tap — some local crafts — and a full bar. Happy hour is all day, every day. Live music at three locations. Outside dining available. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily MIKEY’S PIZZA & ITALIAN RESTAURANT 7544 Beach Blvd., Southside, 721-7333, mikeys-pizzajax.com Family-owned for 35-plus years, Mikey’s serves Old New York style thin-crust pizzas, pasta, chicken and seafood dishes. Italian lunch buffet, take-out and delivery within three miles. • $ K TO L D Mon.-Sat. MOON RIVER PIZZA 925 S. 14th St., Fernandina Beach, 321-3400 1176 Edgewood Ave. S., Murray Hill, 389-4442, moonriverpizza.net 2014 Best of Jax Winner At this edgy little pizzeria, local artists’ work hangs on the walls and rock music is pumped into the dining room. Northern-style pizzas, available with more than 20 toppings, are served by the pie or the slice. • $ BW TO L D Mon.-Sat. NEW YORK PIZZA COMPANY 163 Palencia Village Dr., St. Augustine, 825-4545, mynewyorkpizzacompany.com All the pizzas are hand-tossed, made with their own dough and specially spiced tomato sauce, and baked in a stone oven. Salads, cheesy calzones, pasta dishes, hot hero sandwiches and desserts.

Delivery available. • $ BW TO L D Daily

34 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

PICASSO’S PIZZERIA 10503 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 880-0811, jaxpicassos.com Picasso’s specializes in hand-tossed gourmet pizza, calzones, homemade New York-style cheesecake and handmade pasta, fresh local seafood and steaks. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily PI INFINITE COMBINATIONS 19 S. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 432-8535, pi32034.wix.com/piinfinite It’s all bar service at the New York-style pizza joint. Specialty pizzas, by the pie or huge slice, with toppings like sliced truffle mushrooms, whole little neck clams, eggs or shrimp. Dine inside or in the courtyard, featuring a fountain. • $$ BW TO L D Wed.-Sun. PIZZALLEY’S 117 St. George St., St. Augustine, 825-2627, pizzalleys.net 2014 Best of Jax Winner The downtown eatery has wings, salads and, of course, pizza — including free samples to passersby. The Garbage Can pizza: a supreme with everything. Outdoor patio seating. • $$ BW TO L D Daily PIZZALLEY’S CHIANTI ROOM 60 Charlotte St., St. Augustine, 825-4100, pizzalleyschiantiroom.com Sister restaurant to the St. George Street place, Pizzalley’s Chianti Room serves homemade Italian ristorante fare in a Tuscany setting.

Live music Mon.-Fri. • $$ BW TO L D Daily PIZZA PALACE RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 1959 San Marco Blvd., 399-8815 The relaxed, family-owned restaurant serves homestyle cuisine.

Local faves include spinach pizza and chicken spinach calzones.

Ravioli, lasagna and parmigiana. Outside dining, HD TVs. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily POMPEII COAL-FIRED PIZZA 2134 Park Ave., Orange Park, 264-6116 Family-owned-and-operated Pompeii is one of the few pizza places offering pies made in coal-fired ovens. The distinctive, flavorful pies are served alongside coal-fired wings. Espresso and cappuccino. • $ BW TO L D Daily THE RED ELEPHANT PIZZA AND GRILL 10131 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 12, Mandarin, 683-3773, redelephantpizza.com The casual, family-friendly eatery serves pizzas, sandwiches, grill specials, burgers and pasta dishes, plus gluten-free-friendly items.

• $ FB K L D Daily RENNA’S PIZZA 11111 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 12, Mandarin, 292-2300 4624 Town Crossing Dr., Ste. 125, St. Johns Town Center, 565-1299 6001 Argyle Forest Blvd., Ste. 16, Orange Park, 771-7677 592 Marsh Landing Pkwy., Jax Beach, 273-3113, rennaspizza.com The casual New York-style pizzerias serve calzones, antipasto, parmigiana — and terrific pizzas, too — and homemade breads.

Buy by the slice – they’re huge – or a full pie. Delivery available. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily TOMMY’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA 4160 Southside Blvd., Ste. 2, 565-1999, tbopizza.com Tommy’s creates New York-style thin crust, brick-oven-cooked pizzas — gluten-free — plus calzones, salads and sandwiches made fresh to order, using Thumann’s no-MSG meats and Grande cheeses. Beer, wine and Boylan’s soda served. Curbside pick-up. • $$ BW TO L D Mon.-Sat. TONY’S PIZZA 1425 Sadler Rd., Fernandina Beach, 277-7661, fernandinatonysnewyorkpizza.net Tony’s serves New York-style brick oven pizza, along with dinner selections (like stromboli and calzones). Subs, salads and wings complete the picture. Free delivery on the island with every $20 order. • $ L D Daily V PIZZA 1406 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 527-1511, vpizza.com 528 First St. N., Jax Beach, 853-6633 New to San Marco and Jax Beach, V Pizza offers true Neapolitana pizzas with the freshest ingredients. They claim a 55-second cook time — put them to the test! $$ BW TO L D Daily VINO’S PIZZA & GRILL 605 S.R. 13, Ste. 103, St. Johns, 230-6966 Vino’s has hand-tossed New York-style, thin-crust pizzas, as well as Sicilian-style, thick-crust pizzas. Big salads, baked dishes, subs, stromboli, wings and wraps round out the menu. $ K L D Daily YOUR PIE 1545 C.R. 220, Ste. 125, Fleming Island, 379-9771, yourpie.com Owner Mike Sims has a fast, casual pizza concept: Choose from three doughs, nine sauces, seven cheeses and 40-plus toppings and create your own pizza pie. The staff sticks it in a fiery-hot brick oven for just five minutes and ta-da: It’s your pie. Subs, sandwiches and gelato. • $$ BW K TO L D Daily

REGIONAL CUISINE

29 SOUTH EATS 29 S. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 277-7919, 29southrestaurant.com Located in Fernandina’s historic downtown, this popular bistro’s Chef Scotty Schwartz serves traditional regional cuisine with a modern twist. • $$ L Tue.-Sat.; D Mon.-Sat.; R Sat. BARBARA JEAN’S 15 S. Roscoe Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, 280-7522 960030 Gateway Blvd., Amelia Island, 277-3700, barbarajeans.com Barbara Jean’s specializes in easy Southern dining, like legendary crab cakes, seafood, meatloaf and fresh vegetables. At the Palm Valley location, dine indoors or outside, with a real back-to-nature view of the Intracoastal Waterway. • $$-$$$ FB K B Sat. & Sun.; L D Daily BLACKFINN AMERIPUB 4840 Big Island Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 345-3466, blackfinnamericangrille.com With four dining rooms, BlackFinn offers classic American fare: beef, seafood, pasta and flatbread sandwiches. Dine indoors or on the patio. Live music every Thur.-Sat. • $$$ FB K R L D Daily THE BLACK MOLLY GRILL 504 W. Geoffrey St., Cobblestone Plaza, St. Augustine, 547-2723, theblackmollygrill.com Fresh, local seafood, steaks cut from the loin, and unique pasta dishes in a casual atmosphere. Nonstop happy hour. $$ FB K L D Daily

Steak, shrimp, and plump baked potatoes are some of the items available at Orange Park’s Hilltop Restaurant.

BRETT’S WATERWAY CAFÉ 1 S. Front St., Fernandina Beach, 261-2660 On the water at historic Centre Street’s end, it’s Southern hospitality in an upscale atmosphere; featuring daily specials, fresh local seafood and aged beef. • $$$ FB L D Daily THE CANDY APPLE Café & Cocktails 400 N. Hogan St., Downtown, 353-9717, candyapplecafeandcocktails.com Southern fusion cuisine, a full bar and three private event spaces, plus sandwiches, entrées, salads. Craft cocktails. • $$ FB K L Daily; D Tue.-Sat. THE CAPITAL GRILLE 5197 Big Island Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 997-9233, thecapitalgrille.com The Capital Grille serves dry-aged, hand-carved steaks and fresh seafood, made with local, seasonal ingredients. An extensive, award-winning wine list has 350 Old and New World wines; 25 wines by the glass. • $$ FB K TO L Mon.-Fri.; D Nightly COPPER TAP HOUSE 13500 Beach Blvd., Ste. 25, Intracoastal, 647-6595, copperjax.com Regional craft cuisine and beers, live music Fri. and Sat., brunch Sat. and Sun., trivia, beer flights – Copper Tap has it all. Happy hour daily. • $$ FB K TO D Daily COQUINA BEACH SURF CLUB 451 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 471-2434, coquinabeachsurfclub.com The beach-centric restaurant’s chefs offer seasonal seafood, select beef entrees, seasonal produce, burgers, sandwiches and specials.

An extensive wine list is featured. • $$ FB K R Sat.-Sun.; D Nightly THE DUNES CRACKER HOUSE 641 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 461-5725 The rustic Florida-style spot is popular for drinks, dinner, dancing and daily specials. Jazz Mon. nights, DJ Wed. and Fri.-Sun. • $$ B L Fri.-Sun.; D Nightly THE FLORIDIAN 39 Cordova St., St. Augustine, 829-0655, thefloridianstaug.com Paying homage to Old Florida, The Floridian serves updated Southern fare, with fresh, local ingredients from area farms.

Vegetarian and gluten-free options, too. Signature items include fried green tomato bruschetta, blackened fish cornbread stack and grits with shrimp, fish or tofu. • $$$ BW K TO L D Wed.-Mon. GILBERT’S UNDERGROUND KITCHEN 510 S. Eighth St., 310-6374, Fernandina Beach, undergroundkitchen.com In this neighborhood-driven place, Chef Kenny Gilbert (season seven of Top Chef) serves Deep Southern American cuisine. Dine indoors or out on the patio. $$ BW K TO L Fri.; D Wed.-Sat. & Mon; R Sun. THE HILLTOP 2030 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 272-5959, hilltop-club.com The Hilltop serves dinner in formal, Southern-inflected dining spaces. Specialties include New Orleans shrimp, certified Black Angus prime rib and she-crab soup. Homemade desserts are featured, along with a piano lounge (Tue.-Sat. nights), a large collection of antiques and a garden setting. $$$ FB D Tue.-Sat. THE ICE PLANT BAR 110 Riberia St., St. Augustine, 829-6553, iceplantbar.com The vintage-inspired place (a former ice plant, obvee) in the historic area has a farm-to-table menu utilizing locally sourced ingredients; the drinks are hand-crafted with house-made bitters and syrups. • $$$ FB TO L Mon.-Fri.; D Nightly J ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT 10296 Bistro Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 996-7147, jalexanders.com The upscale contemporary American restaurant is known for its wood-fired cuisine. Fresh seafood is flown in daily, steaks are hand-cut, and the produce is fresh. Wine by the glass or bottle. • $$$$ FB L D Daily LULU’S AT THE THOMPSON HOUSE 11 S. Seventh St., Fernandina Beach, 432-8394, lulusamelia.com An innovative lunch menu includes po’boys, salads and seafood little plates served in a historic house. The dinner menu features fresh local seafood, including Fernandina shrimp. Reservations recommended. • $$$ BW K TO R Sun.; L D Tue.-Sat. MILLER’S ALE HOUSE & RAW BAR 11112 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 19, Mandarin, 292-0003 1756 Wells Rd., Ste. A, Orange Park, 278-4600 9541 Regency Square Blvd. S., Regency, 720-0551 9711 Deer Lake Ct., Southside, 565-2882 3238 Hodges Blvd., Intracoastal, 821-5687, millersalehouse.com The Ale Houses specialize in generous portions and friendly service in a nautical atmosphere. Customer favorites are fresh fish, specialty pastas, and fresh oysters and clams. There are 32 draft beer varieties, along with lots of TVs, pool tables and video games. • $$ FB K L D Daily

MOXIE KITCHEN + COCKTAILS 4972 Big Island Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 998-9744, moxiefl.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Chef Tom Gray’s restaurant features creative, innovative contemporary American cuisine — seafood, steaks, pork, burgers, salads, sides and desserts — using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. • $$$ FB K R Sunday; L Mon.-Fri.; D Nightly OCEAN BAR & GRILLE 333 First St. N., Jax Beach, 595-5965, oceangrille.net This spot serves modern American fare, featuring fresh seafood, steaks and wraps. Live music and outdoor oceanfront dining complete the casual upscale experience. • $$ BW K R, Sun.; L D Daily RIVER CITY BREWING COMPANY 835 Museum Circle, Southbank, 398-2299, rivercitybrew.com On the Southbank Riverwalk by the St. Johns, River City has fresh seafood, steaks and daily chef’s creations. Nosh in an enclosed dining room or out on a marina dining deck. • $$ FB R L D Mon.-Sat. SAVANNAH BISTRO 14670 Duval Rd., Northside, 741-4404, cpjacksonvilleairport.com Low Country Southern fare, with a twist of Mediterranean and French inspiration, in a relaxing atmosphere at Crowne Plaza Airport.

Favorites include crab cakes, New York strip, she crab soup and mahi mahi. • $$$ FB K B L D Daily SEASONS 52 5096 Big Island Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 645-5252, seasons52.com The casual, sophisticated fresh grill and wine bar offers a seasonally changing menu and an award-winning international wine list. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily THE SOUTHERN GRILL 800 Flagler Ave., Southbank, 858-9800, thesoutherngrilljax.com The Grill has salads, veggie platters, sandwiches, melts and wraps.

Breakfast includes omelets, a variety of egg combinations and pancakes. • $$$ B L Mon.-Sat. TABLE 1 330 A1A N., Ste. 208, Ponte Vedra, 280-5515, table-1.com The upscale, casual restaurant offers a variety of items, from appetizers to entrées to salads, as well as a wine bar with an extensive list of wines by the glass. Live music Wed.-Sat. $$$ FB L D Daily TRELLISES RESTAURANT 225 E. Coastline Dr., Downtown, 588-1234, jacksonville.hyatt.com Trellises offers American à la carte dining featuring original fresh seafood creations and regional specialties, along with a daily buffet or à la carte breakfast. • $$$ FB K B L D Daily

SEAFOOD

A LA CARTE 331 First Ave. N., Jax Beach, 241-2005, alacarte-jax.com Authentic New England fare: Maine lobster rolls, fried Ipswich clams, crab or clam cake sandwich, fried shrimp basket, clam chowdah, birch beer and blueberry soda. Dine in or on the deck.

Gluten-free options, some menu items are available in the shop.

• $$ TO L Thur.-Tue. AW SHUCKS 9743 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 240-0368, awshucksjax.com The seafood place has an oyster bar, steaks, seafood, wings and pasta. Favorites are ahi tuna, shrimp & grits, oysters Rockefeller, pitas and kabobs. Sweet potato puffs are the signature side. WiFi, outdoor dining. • $$ FB K L D Daily BARNACLE BILL’S 14 Castillo Dr., St. Augustine, 824-3663, barnaclebillsonline.com For 30-plus years, the family restaurant has served seafood, oysters, gator tail, steak and fried shrimp. Some dishes are infused with their Datl Do It hot sauce products. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily BEACHSIDE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & MARKET 120 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 444-8862, beachsideseafood.info A full fresh seafood market, Beachside also serves a lunch and dinner menu featuring seafood baskets, fish tacos, daily fish specials and Philly cheesesteaks. There are tables indoors and on the second-floor open-air deck, with a great view of downtown Jax Beach. • $$ BW K TO L Daily; D Tue.-Sun. BLACKFLY THE RESTAURANT 108 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 201-6300, blackflytherestaurant.com The seafood place is semi-casual dining with a fly-fishing theme, focusing on a variety of fresh Atlantic seafood, steaks, brick-over pizza and specialty drinks. • $$$ FB K TO D Nightly

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<<< FROM PREVIOUS THE BLUE CRAB CRABHOUSE 3057 Julington Creek Rd., Julington Creek, 260-2722, bluecrabcrabhouse.com Fresh Maryland-style steamed blue crabs are a big deal here, as are crab legs and steamed or fried oysters. Dine on a covered deck; early bird menu and daily specials. Live music every Sun. afternoon on the deck. • $$ FB K R Sun.; D Tue.-Sun. THE BLUE FISH RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR 3551 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 387-0700, bluefishjax.com Fresh seafood, steaks, chops and small plates are served in a casual atmosphere, along with gluten-free entrées and an oyster bar. Live music Thur.-Sat. Happy hour menus at the bar daily. Dine indoors, on the sidewalk or in the courtyard. Reservations recommended. • $$ FB K TO R Sun.; L Mon.-Sat., D., Nightly CHART HOUSE 1501 River Place Blvd., Southbank, 398-3353, chart-house.com On the St. Johns River since 1982, the upscale restaurant serves fresh fish, seafood and prime rib. • $$$$ FB D Nightly CHOWDER TED’S 5215 Heckscher Dr., Northside, 714-6900 Family-owned since 1996, Chowder Ted’s serves all manner of fresh seafood, along with award-winning chowder. Daily lunch specials and weekends dinner specials are also featured. Cash only. • $ BW L D Tue.-Sat.

A Jacksonville landmark, Gene’s menu includes gator tail, calamari and Cajun shrimp. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily HURRICANE PATTY’S AT OYSTER CREEK 69 Lewis Blvd., St. Augustine, 827-1822, hurricanepattys.net At Oyster Creek Marina east of U.S. 1, this spot has a large creekfront deck, lunch specials and all-you-can-eat dinners.

Daily happy hour; dock space for boaters. Live music nightly. • $$ FB L D Daily JULIETTE’S BISTRO & THE J-BAR 245 Water St., Downtown, 355-6664, 791-4995, ominhotels.com Juliette’s serves a full dinner menu featuring fresh Florida seafood with a Southern influence. There’s a breakfast buffet.

The full-service bar carries a wide selection of beer, wine and spirits including local craft beers. J-Bar serves small plates.

Juliette’s strives to source items locally whenever possible. • $$$ FB K B L D Daily LULU’S WATERFRONT GRILLE 301 Roscoe Blvd. N., Palm Valley, 285-0139 On the Intracoastal Waterway, Lulu’s can be reached by land or water. The menu offers fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, burgers and specialty salads. Seating available on a screened waterfront porch.

• $$$ FB K TO R Sat.-Sun.; L D daily MARINA SEAFOOD 101 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, 261-5310 Located in a former customs house, this spot serves local seafood, including shrimp burgers, fish sandwiches, seafood platters and oysters, steak, pasta and pork chops. • $$$ BW K TO L D Daily MARLIN MOON GRILLE 1183 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 372-4438, marlinmoongrille.com The sportfishing themed restaurant has fresh crab cakes — owner Gary Beach’s from Maryland’s Eastern Shore — and burgers, daily specials, craft beers, Orange Crushes and fresh-

Joe and Sarah at Thai Garden in Orange Park present fresh spring rolls and their house recipe pumpkin custard.

CLARK’S FISH CAMP 12903 Hood Landing Rd., Julington Creek, 268-3474, clarksfishcamp.com Known for its wild array of taxidermed creatures, Clark’s features gator and turtle, steak, ribs and daily all-you-can-eat catfish dinners.

Dine indoors, outdoors, or in a glass-enclosed room with a view of Julington Creek. • $$ FB K L Sat.-Sun. D Daily CONCH HOUSE RESTAURANT 57 Comares Ave., St. Augustine, 829-8646, conch-house.com There’s indoor seating and Tiki huts built out over Salt Run. Signature dishes include the Cracker combo platter and St. Augustine fried shrimp. Tropical drinks, live music. • $$ FB K L D Daily CRAB CREEK CAFÉ 7404 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 724-8050 A seafood shack with a yacht club attitude, Crab Creek Café offers oysters, gator tail, seafood and pasta in a family-friendly atmosphere. • $ K TO L D Mon.-Sat.; L Sun. THE CRAB TRAP 31 N. Second St., Fernandina Beach, 261-4749, ameliacrabtrap.com For 30-plus years, family-owned-and-operated Crab Trap has been serving fresh local seafood and steaks. Food and drink specials are featured. • $$ FB L D Nightly CREEKSIDE DINERY 160 Nix Boatyard Rd., St. Augustine, 829-6113, creeksidedinery.com The Old Florida respite, with an outdoor deck and a fire pit, overlooks Gonzales Creek. Creekside serves a variety of beef, chicken and seafood dishes, with an emphasis on low-country cooking. Live music weekends. • $$ FB K D Nightly THE FISH COMPANY RESTAURANT 725 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 12, Atlantic Beach, 246-0123, thefishcojax.com The restaurant and oyster bar in North Beach Center serves fresh local seafood including Mayport shrimp and oysters, crab and lobster. Patio seating available; all-day happy hour every Sun.; Oyster specials Tue. and Wed; wine specials Thur. • $$ FB K L D Daily FISHERMAN’S GALLEY GRILL & BAR 9825 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 1, Mandarin, 253-3112 Seafood, burgers, prime rib and chicken – the specialty is jumbo fried shrimp. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily FLORIDA CRACKER CAFÉ 81-B St. George St., St. Augustine, 829-0397, floridacrackercafe.com A contemporary dining room and outdoor garden dining on busy St. George Street. Customer faves include blackened scallops, crab cake-stuffed shrimp and Florida gator tail. • $$ BW K L D Daily GENE’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1571 University Blvd. W., Lakewood, 448-9888, genesseafoodlakewood.com

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cut fries. Lots of TVs to watch all the Maryland teams, too. • $$ FB K TO L Tue.-Sat.; D Tue.-Sun. MITCHELL’S FISH MARKET 5205 Big Island Dr., St. Johns Town Center, 645-3474, mitchellsfishmarket.com The ever-changing menu (it’s printed twice daily) has more than 180 fresh items, featuring cedar-roasted Atlantic salmon, kung pao calamari and seared rare salt-and-pepper tuna. • $$$ FB K TO L D Daily NIPPERS BEACH GRILLE 2309 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 247-3300, nippersbeachgrille.com The chef-driven Southern coastal cuisine has local fare and dishes with a Caribbean flavor, served in an island atmosphere overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Dine inside or out on the Tiki deck. Live music every night. Valet parking Wed.-Sun. • $$ FB K L D Wed.Sun.; D Mon. & Tue. NORTH BEACH FISH CAMP 100 First St., Neptune Beach, 249-3474, thenorthbeachfishcamp.com Ben and Liza Groshell bring their Palm Valley Fish Camp vibe smack dab in the middle of the Beaches Town Center, with a roof-top bar and ocean view. Fresh, creative Southern fare and fresh seafood, and bread pudding. • $$$ FB L Wed.-Sun.; D Nightly O.C. WHITE’S SEAFOOD & SPIRITS 118 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, 824-0808, ocwhitesrestaurant.com The spirits here aren’t just the bottled kind. O.C. Whites, built in 1791, is said to be haunted. Fresh local seafood, steak and sautéed specialties.

Live music nightly, patio dining. • $$ FB L Wed.-Sun.; D Nightly OLD FLORIDA FISH CAMP & SEAFOOD SHACK 2510 Second Ave. N., Jax Beach, 334-8408, oldfloridaseafoodshack.com This new spot offers island waterfront dining featuring fresh local seafood. Dine inside or on the patio. Airboat and dolphin tours. • $$ BW L R L D Wed.-Sun. OUTBACK CRAB SHACK 8155 C.R. 13 N., St. Augustine, 522-0500, outbackcrabshack.com The rustic place on Six Mile Creek has crabs, shrimp, gator tail, conch fritters and steaks. Arriving by boat or just feel like a nice after-dinner stroll? Check out the 1,500-foot floating dock. • $$ L D Daily PALM VALLEY FISH CAMP 229 Roscoe Blvd. N., Palm Valley, 285-3200, palmvalleyfishcamp.com Ben Groshell presents the dining experience on the Intracoastal, serving dishes made with fresh ingredients, including daily specials.

Call in your order and pick it up dockside. • $$$ FB K TO L Tue.Sun.; D Nightly RAGTIME TAVERN & SEAFOOD GRILL 207 Atlantic Blvd., Beaches Town Center, Atlantic Beach, 241-7877, ragtimetavern.com

In business for more than 30 years now, this popular seafood restaurant has received numerous awards in Folio Weekly’s Best of Jax readers poll. Menu items include blackened snapper, sesame tuna and the Ragtime shrimp. Daily happy hour; live music Wed.Sun. • $$ FB L D Daily THE REEF • 4100 Coastal Hwy., Vilano Beach, 824-8008, thereefstaugustine.com The casual oceanfront restaurant has an ocean view from every table. The menu has fresh local seafood, steak, pasta dishes and chef specials. Daily happy hour; outdoor dining. • $$$ FB K TO R Sun.; L D Daily SALT LIFE FOOD SHACK 1018 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 372-4456 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, 217-3256, saltlifefoodshack.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Salt Life offers a wide array of specialty menu items, including the signature tuna poke bowl, fresh rolled sushi, Ensenada tacos and local fried shrimp, served in a contemporary open-air space. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily SEAFOOD KITCHEN 31 Royal Palm Dr. (off Atlantic Boulevard), Atlantic Beach, 241-8470 Serving seafood for 20-plus years, Seafood Kitchen has reasonable prices in a no-frills atmosphere. The emphasis is on fresh local seafood prepared to order, with a wide variety of dishes available. • $ BW TO L D Daily SINGLETON’S SEAFOOD SHACK 4728 Ocean St., Mayport Village, 246-4442 Just steps from the Mayport ferry, this ramshackle haunt has been serving seafood to locals, fishermen and Navy men and women since the ’60s. Customer faves are fried shrimp dinner and blackened or grilled fish. Dine inside or on the enclosed porch right on the St. Johns River — literally. Watch pelicans and otters play among the pilings. • $ FB K TO L D Daily SLIDERS SEAFOOD GRILLE & OYSTER BAR 218 First St., Beaches Town Center, Neptune Beach, 246-0881, slidersseafoodgrille.com Beach-casual atmosphere for fresh fish lovers. Customer faves include fish tacos and gumbo. For dessert: Key lime pie and homemade ice cream sandwiches. • $$ FB K L Sat. & Sun.; D Nightly SLIDERS SEASIDE GRILL 1998 S. Fletcher Ave., Fernandina Beach, 277-6652, slidersseaside.com This oceanfront restaurant serves award-winning handmade crab cakes, fresh seafood and fried pickles. Outdoor dining is featured, and kids have a beachfront playground. There’s an open-air second floor and balcony. Live music nightly. • $$ FB K L D Daily SOUTH BEACH GRILL 45 Cubbedge Rd., Crescent Beach, 471-8700, southbeachgrill.net Just off A1A, one block south of S.R. 206 bridge, the two-story place offers casual oceanfront dining and fresh local seafood.

Dine inside or on the beachfront deck. Weekday happy hour. • $$$ FB B L D Daily THE SURF RESTAURANT & BAR 3199 S. Fletcher Ave., Fernandina Beach, 261-5711 Oceanview dining is featured at The Surf, inside or out on the deck.

The menu includes steaks, fresh fish and nightly specials, and there’s a Sunday lobster special. Entertainment is every night and weekend afternoons. • $$ BW L D Daily TIMOTI’S SEAFOOD SHAK 21 N. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 310-6550 This casual restaurant has fresh, local wild-caught shrimp, fish and oysters, wraps, tacos and soup, along with blackboard specials, supporting local fishermen, farmers and brewers while building a sense of community, one seafood basket at a time. Dine indoors or out, where’s a pirate ship playground for the little ones. • $ BW K TO L D Mon.-Sat.; L Sun. TWO DUDES EATERY & MARKET 22 Seminole Rd., Atlantic Beach, 246-2000, two-dudes.com This place serves up-to-the-minute-fresh Mayport seafood, including shrimp, scallops, snapper and oysters done up in sandwiches or baskets, grilled, blackened or fried. There’s a daily happy hour. • $$ BW TO L D Mon.-Sat. THE VERANDAH RESTAURANT 142 Racquet Park Dr., Omni Amelia Island Plantation, 277-5958, omnihotels.com Set among the moss-draped oaks of Racquet Park, this recently renovated restaurant has an extensive menu of fresh local seafood and steaks; the Verandah’s signature entrée is Fernandina shrimp. And many ingredients — including tomatoes, chives and lemongrass — are from the restaurant’s own herb and vegetable garden. • $$$ FB K D Nightly WHITEY’S FISH CAMP 2032 C.R. 220, Fleming Island, 269-4198, whiteysfishcamp.com This authentic fish camp serves gator tail and fresh-water river catfish, as well as traditional meals and daily specials on the banks of Swimming Pen Creek. Whitey’s has an outdoor Tiki bar and live music Wed.-Sun. Come by boat, motorcycle or car. • $ FB K TO L Tue.-Sun.; D Nightly

SPECIALTY RESTAURANTS & MARKETS

ALHAMBRA THEATRE & DINING 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside, 641-1212, alhambrajax.com The nation’s longest continuously running dinner theater (now in its 48th year), the renovated Alhambra features cuisine prepared by Executive Chef DeJuan Roy, who coordinates his menus with each stage production. Reservations suggested to guarantee seating. • $$ FB D Tue.-Sun. THE CORAZON CINEMA & CAFE 36 Granada St., St. Augustine, 679-5736, corazoncinemaandcafe.com Sandwiches, combos, salads and pizza served at this cinema house, showing indie and first-run movies. • $$ Daily GRASSROOTS NATURAL MARKET 2007 Park St., Riverside, 384-4474 2014 Best of Jax Winner Grassroots Market’s juice bar uses certified organic fruits and

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vegetables. The store offers three dozen artisanal cheeses, more than 300 craft and imported beers and 50 organic wines, and organic produce and meats, vitamins and herbs. Organic wraps, sides, sandwiches and salads available to go, as well as raw, vegan items. • $ BW TO B L D Daily GREEN MAN GOURMET 3543 St. Johns Ave., Shoppes of Avondale, 384-0002, greenmangourmet.com This shop specializes in organic and natural products, spices, teas and salts. • $ BW TO Daily THE LOVING CUP HASH HOUSE 610 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 422-0644, thelovingcuphashhouse.com The new place offers locally sourced fare, locally roasted coffee, gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, healthful and un-healthful dishes – no GMOs or hormones allowed. • $ K TO B R L Tue.-Sun. MUSTARD SEED CAFE 833 TJ Courson Rd., Fernandina Beach, 277-3158, nassaushealthfoods.net Awarded Slow Food First Coast’s Snail of Approval, the casual organic eatery and juice bar, in Nassau Health Foods, offers allnatural, organic items for breakfast, and smoothies, veggie juices and coffees and herbal teas. • $$ K TO B L Mon.-Sat. NATIVE SUN NATURAL FOODS MARKET & DELI 10000 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 260-6950, nativesunjax.com 11030 Baymeadows Rd., 260-2791 Natural and organic soups, sandwiches, salads, wraps, baked goods, prepared foods, juices and smoothies that cater to vegans, vegetarians and those with special diet needs. A juice, smoothie and coffee bar, and all-natural and organic beers and wine are available. Indoor and outdoor seating.

• $ BW TO K B L D Daily PULP 1962 San Marco Blvd., 396-9222, pulpaddiction.com The juice bar has fresh juices, frozen yogurt, teas, and coffees made one cup at a time, plus 30 kinds of smoothies, some blended with flavored soy milks, organic frozen yogurts and granola. • $ TO B L D Daily SUN-RAY CINEMA 1028 Park St., Five Points, 359-0049, sunraycinema.com First-run, indie and art films are screened at the oldest theater building in Jacksonville. Beer, drafts from Bold City and Intuition Ale Works, wine, pizza — with names like Godbold, Black Lagoon Supreme, Cowford Pie — hot dogs, hummus, sandwiches, popcorn, nachos and brownies. • $$ BW Daily TEA HAUS & JÜS BAR 353 Sixth Ave. S., Jax Beach, 803-1407, teahausjax.com The new place offers fare from its kitchen – all gluten-free, vegan and organic. Herbs and loose teas, too. • $$ TO B L Mon.-Sat. WHOLE FOODS MARKET 10601 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 22, Mandarin, 288-1100, wholefoodsmarket.com An expansive prepared-food department with more than 80 items at a full-service and self-service hot bar, salad bar, soup bar and dessert bar, plus pizza, sushi and sandwich stations. • $$ BW TO L D Daily

SPORTS BARS, WINGS & OYSTERS

360° GRILLE IN LATITUDE 360 10370 Philips Hwy., Southside, 365-5555, latitude360.com In the entertainment complex Latitude 360, the grille serves familiar sportsbar favorites, including seafood, steaks, sandwiches, burgers, chicken, pasta and pizza. Dine inside or on the patio. • $$ FB TO L D Daily BOGEY GRILLE SPORTS BAR & RESTAURANT 150 Valley Circle, Ponte Vedra, 285-5524, bogeygrille.net The family-friendly sports bar offers casual fare, like wings, quesadillas, pasta, seafood, chicken and burgers. Big-screen and flatscreen TVs and a game area, too. • $$ FB K L D Daily BOSTON’S RESTAURANT & SPORTSBAR 13070 City Station Dr., Northside, 751-7499, bostons.com The full-service restaurant serves sports bar faves, like pizzas, pasta, wings, burgers and steak, till 2 a.m. (and there’s a lunch menu with items under $7). There are 30 TVs (and major sports packages); live music every weekend. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily BUFFALO WILD WINGS GRILL & BAR 1940 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 215-4969 13230 City Station Dr., Northside, 757-5777 10300 Southside Blvd., Ste. 2430A, Avenues Mall, 363-0410, buffalowildwings.com Along with buffalo-style wings fixed up with 14 sauces (ranging in heat intensity from mild to better-be-ready blazin’), BWW serves wraps, burgers and ribs and salads. Sports are always on the bigscreen TVs. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily DICK’S WINGS & GRILL 6055 Youngerman Circle, Orange Park, 778-1101 100 Marketside Ave., Ponte Vedra, 829-8134 2158 Mayport Rd., Ste. 7, Atlantic Beach, 372-0298 9119 Merrill Rd., Ste. 19, Arlington, 745-9300 1540 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 269-2122 1610 University Blvd. W., Lakewood, 448-2110 10391 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin, 880-7087 474313 E. S.R. 200, Fernandina Beach, 310-6945 450077 S.R. 200, Callahan, 879-0993 4010 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 547-2669 525 S.R. 16, Ste. 101, St. Johns, 825-4540 10750 Atlantic Blvd., Southside, 619-0954 14286 Beach Blvd., Ste. 32, Intracoastal, 223-0115 5972 San Juan Ave., Westside, 693-9258, dickswingsandgrill.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner This NASCAR-themed restaurant serves 365 varieties of wings. The menu also features half-pound burgers, ribs and salads. • $ FB K TO L D Daily EIGHT BURGER BAR & SPORTS LOUNGE The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy., 277-1100, ritzcarlton.com The contemporary sports lounge features billiard tables and multiple flatscreen TVs along with classic sports-bar fare. Local craft brews are on tap, and an extensive wine list is offered, along with a variety of cocktails. • $ FB D Nightly GATOR’S DOCKSIDE 9680 Argyle Forest Blvd., Ste. 1, Westside, 425-6466

6677 103rd St., Westside, 777-6135 8650 Baymeadows Rd., 448-0500 485 S.R. 13 N., Ste. 1, St. Johns, 230-4353, gatorsdockside.com For nearly 25 years, the sports-themed family restaurant has served grilled wings, ribs, sandwiches and salads. Sports aired on multiple TVs; every Tuesday is kids’ night. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily HOOTERS Jax Landing, Ste. 103, 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 356-5400 4521 Southside Blvd., 807-9541 8938 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 2, Mandarin, 636-9800 1740 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 215-5858, hooters.com This chain of casual restaurants is popular for its waitresses and wings, sauced with a variety of flavors in a range of intensity (the wings, not the staff), plus steamed shrimp, oysters, burgers, seafood and sandwiches. • $$ FB TO L D Daily HURRICANE GRILL & WINGS 1615 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 393-7933 628 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 6, Neptune Beach, 247-3031 10920 Baymeadows Rd., 363-2503 12795 San Jose Blvd., Julington Creek, 260-8338 3055 C.R. 210, Ste. 101, Johns Creek, 230-6445 5907 Roosevelt Blvd., Ste. 700, Ortega, 573-8838 4225 S. A1A, Ste. 13, St. Augustine Beach, 471-7120 1810 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 1, Fleming Island, 644-7315, hurricanewings.com This island-themed restaurant offers more than 35 flavors of wings, garlic and parmesan fries, Firecracker shrimp, burgers and chicken.

The beverage cups are biodegradable. Kids’ night, trivia, live music and drink specials, too. • $ FB K TO L D Daily JERRY’S SPORTS GRILLE 13170 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 22, Intracoastal, 220-6766 The casual menu includes hand-cut steaks, wings and hamburgers.

Breakfast is served Sat. and Sun., featuring bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys. Trivia every Tue. • $ FB K B Sat. & Sun.; L D Daily LILLIAN’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 5393 Roosevelt Blvd., Venetia Plaza, Ortega, 388-4220, lillianssportsgrill.com This family sports bar serves wings, burgers, salads and sandwiches. The TVs air sporting events. Happy hour daily. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily MAHARLIKA HALL & SPORTS GRILL 14255 Beach Blvd., Ste. E, Intracoastal, 992-1112, maharlika. mayumibeats.com The Filipino-American restaurant and market features pancit bami, lumpia, kare kare and mussels in coconut sauce. • $-$$ FB K R L D Daily THE MUDVILLE GRILLE 3105 Beach Blvd., St. Nicholas, 398-4326, themudvillegrill.com 1301 Monument Rd., Ste. 1, Arlington, 722-0008 This original St. Nicholas location and its sister restaurant are family-oriented sports spots serving steaks and wings. Trivia every Thur., Karaoke every Fri., Texas Hold ’Em every Wed., big-screen TVs, three satellite dishes. The adjacent Music Room has live music every weekend in St. Nicholas. • $ FB K L D Daily MVP’S SPORTS GRILLE 12777 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 5, Intracoastal, 221-1090 Wings, burgers and salads in a sporty atmosphere. Free pool and trivia on Mon., Texas Hold ’Em Sun. and Tue., Karaoke every Thur., a DJ spins every Wed., Fri.-Sat. Sports shown on 22 TVs. • $$ FB L D Daily\ PERFECT RACK BILLIARDS 1186 Edgewood Ave. S., Murray Hill, 384-0587 The family-friendly billiards hall offers burgers and chicken wings.

Free pool is available for kids under 14 (with parents) on weekends.

Happy hour Mon.-Fri. • $$ FB L Thur., Fri., Sun.; D Nightly PLAYERS GRILLE 4456 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 448-6670, playersgrille.com The sports bar and grill serves burgers and wings, teriyaki stir fry and homemade soups. A kids’ game room is TV monitored, so parents can watch, and TVs are in all the booths. Texas Hold ’Em every Wed.-Thur., Sat.-Sun. • $$ FB K R L D Daily PREVATT’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 2620 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 17, Middleburg, 282-1564, prevattssportsbarandgrill.com This is what a neighborhood sportsbar should be: Familiar fare, all the spirits you’d want and live music every weekend. • $$ FB K TO L D Daily THE ROADHOUSE 231 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 264-0611, roadhouseonline.net The Roadhouse has been serving sandwiches, wings, burgers and quesadillas for more than 35 years. Along with six pool tables, dartboards, foosball and TVs (two are big screens), there’s live local and national rock music performed every Mon., Thur.-Sat. The Roadhouse offers 75-plus imported beers.

• $ FB L D Daily THE SALTY PELICAN BAR & GRILL 12 N. Front St., Fernandina Beach, 277-3811 2014 Best of Jax Winner View the sunset over the ICW from the second-story outdoor bar.

Owners T.J. and Al feature a menu of local seafood, Mayport shrimp, fish tacos, po’boys and the original broiled cheese oysters. Live music Thur.-Sat. There are 17 beers on tap. • $$ FB K L D Daily SNEAKERS SPORTS GRILLE 111 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 482-1000, sneakerssportsgrille.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Sneakers offers a full bar (with more than 20 beers on tap), TV screens covering entire walls and cheerleaders serving the food.

Happy hour Mon.-Fri. • $ FB K L D Daily TIME OUT SPORTS GRILL 13799 Beach Blvd., Ste. 5, Intracoastal, 223-6999, timeoutsportsgrill.com The locally-owned-and-operated grill serves hand-tossed pizzas, wings and specialty wraps in a clean, sporty atmosphere. Daily drink specials, HD TVs, pool tables, darts, trivia, late-night menu. • $$ FB L Tue.-Sun.; D Nightly WILD WING CAFÉ 4555 Southside Blvd., Tinseltown, 998-9464, wildwingcafe.com The hoppin’ spot serves 33 flavors of wings, plus soups, sandwiches, wraps, ribs and burgers. Live music or a DJ three to four nights a week. • $$ FB L D Daily XTREME WINGS SPORTS GRILLE 12220 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 108, Intracoastal, 220-9464,

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 37

<<< FROM PREVIOUS xtreme-wings.com The family sports grill has TVs airing UFC, NFL MLB and college games, and there’s games and pool tables. There’s food, too: wings (try the X-Factor), burgers, sandwiches, wraps. • $ FB K TO L D Daily; R Sat.-Sun.

SWEET SPOTS

BITTERSWEET BAKERY & EATERY 14286 Beach Blvd., Ste. 29, Intracoastal, 223-0457, bittersweetjax.com Traditional desserts just like Grandma’s, with a modern twist, are featured here, along with sandwiches wrapped in butcher paper and tied with twine. Ah, the good old days. Plus breakfast items to-go. • $$ TO B L Tue.-Sun. BRUSTER’S ICE CREAM 12224 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 221-1441 11701 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 60, Mandarin, 886-1995 9590 Applecross Rd., Oakleaf, 771-0722, brusters.com 3501-G Ponce de Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, 679-3652 The treats here are made fresh daily in the store, including 133 flavors of ice cream served in cones, waffles, bowls, milkshakes or sundaes. • $ K TO Daily CAMICAKES CUPCAKES 1910 Wells Rd., Orange Park, 541-1095 9734 Deerlake Ct., Ste. 5, Tinseltown, 998-4611, camicakes.com Gourmet cupcakes for any occasion, made with fresh ingredients.

Choices include sweet potato, red velvet, mint chocolate and The Elvis – that’s right, banana and peanut butter with chocolate frosting. Thankyavurrymuuuch. • $$ TO Daily CHEZ LEZAN BAKERY COMPANY 1014 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, 491-4663, chezlezanbakery.com European-style breads and pastries, including croissants, muffins and pies are baked daily. Most breads made at Chez Lezan are made without fat or sugar. • $ TO B R L Daily CINOTTI’S BAKERY, DELI & BOUTIQUE 1523 Penman Rd., Jax Beach, 246-1728, cinottisbakery.com Four generations of Cinottis have been serving the Beaches since 1964, offering cakes for all occasions, pies, breads and desserts by the caseful, and party trays. The deli has breakfast and lunch items.

• $ K TO B R L Tue.-Sat. CLAUDE’S CHOCOLATE 3543 St. Johns Ave., 829-5790 Inside Green Man Gourmet.

145 Hilden Rd., Ste. 122, 829-5790 Each piece is hand-crafted in the onsite factory, with premium Belgian chocolate and the finest fruits, nuts and spices from around the world. Cookies and popsicles also available. Claude’s will ship your order.

6 Granada St., 829-5790, claudeschocolate.com Inside The Market; wine and chocolate pairings, soft-serve ice cream, a coffee bar, fresh fruit ice pops, cookies and gift items. • $$ TO EDGEWOOD BAKERY 1012 S. Edgewood Ave., Murray Hill, 389-8054, edgewoodbakery.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner For more than 68 years, the full-service bakery has been serving fresh from-scratch pastries, petit fours, pies and legendary custom cakes. An espresso and pastry café serves sandwiches, smoothies and soups. Catering available. • $ K TO B L Tue.-Sat. FLORIDA CREAMERY 3566 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 619-5386, floridacreamery.net Florida Creamery offers premium ice cream, fresh waffle cones, milkshakes, sundaes and Nathan’s grilled hot dogs, served in Florida-centric décor. Low-fat and sugar-free choices are also offered. • $ K TO L D Daily THE FRENCH PANTRY 6301 Powers Ave., Southside, 730-8696 The bakery offers freshly made pastries, sandwiches and salads, with a European flair. There’s usually a line out the door, so be patient. • $$ L Mon.-Thur.

GILMON’S BAKERY 11362 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 13, Mandarin, 288-8128, gilmonsbakery.com A wide variety of custom cakes, awesome cupcakes, gingerbread men, pies and cookies are created here. Coffee, tea and sodas. • $$ B L Tue.-Sat. HAPPY CUP FROZEN YOGURT 299 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 2, Atlantic Beach, 372-4059, myhappycup.com It’s self-serve frozen yogurt made with organic ingredients and flavored with real fruit, the yogurts can be mixed, matched and crowned with faves from the toppings bar. • $ TO Daily KATHY’S BAKERY & CAFE 10150 Beach Blvd., Ste. 18, Southside, 641-7555 The bakery has a real Cuban flavor to the items it offers, especially its coffee. • $ TO B L D Tue.-Sun. KNEAD BAKESHOP 1173 Edgewood Ave. S., 634-7617 Knead is a locally-owned, family-run bake shop specializing in freshly baked, made-from-scratch creations like classic pastries, artisan breads, savory pies, specialty sandwiches and seasonal salads and soups. • $ TO B L Tue.-Sun. LET THEM EAT CAKE! 3604 St. Johns Ave., Ste. 2, Avondale, 389-2122 This artisan bakery serves coffee, croissants and muffins, a variety of cupcakes (The Fat Elvis!), pastries and individual desserts.

Sandwiches, soups and salads, too. Whole cakes (coconut is popular) can be made-to-order. • $ TO B L Tue.-Sat. LIBERTY BAKERY 6661 Bowden Rd., Southside, 321-9567

38 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

The spot offers sandwiches, subs, salads and freshly baked pastry Akel’s Deli, located in the JEA items. • $ B L Tue.-Sat. building on Church Street LITTLE BLACK BOX BAKED GOODS in Downtown Jax, makes CAFE 8106 Old Kings Rd. S., Southside, burgers, salads, and soups, plus 683-1346 breakfast starting at 7 a.m.

The small-batch bakery and scratch kitchen uses local and organic ingredients when possible for their fresh, homestyle fare and yummy desserts, offering its wares at several local famers markets. Sandwiches also available. • $ TO L Mon.-Fri. LULI’S CUPCAKES 82 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 824-5280, luliscupcakes.com Cupcakes, baked fresh daily, include Grandma’s Coconut, Fire Engine Red Velvet, What’s Up Doc (carrot cake) and Funky Monkey, banana and chocolate chip cake with milk chocolate frosting. Mini-cupcakes also available. • $ TO Mon.-Sat. MY MOCHI FROZEN YOGURT 4860 Big Island Dr., Ste. 2, St. Johns Town Center, 807-9292 13546 Beach Blvd., Ste. 1A, Intracoastal, 821-9880, mymochi.biz A variety of non-fat, low-calorie, cholesterol-free frozen yogurts, including tart and non-tart flavors, plus more than 40 toppings. • $ SWEET THEORY BAKING CO. TO Daily 1243 King St., Riverside, 387-1001 OHANA HAWAIIAN SHAVED ICE Small batch, all-natural and organic, allergy-friendly bakery 469 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 12, Atlantic Beach, 249-0555, featuring items made with no egg, dairy, soy or peanuts. Gluten-free ohanaice.com options, too. • TO Wed.-Sun. The delicately shaved ice is served in 52 flavors, made without corn THREE f(x) ICE CREAM & WAFFLES syrup, some without sugar. There are also crab cakes sandwiches 9802 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 6, 928-9559 and salads with mango salsa. • $ TO Tue.-Sun. Ice cream made-to-order. Your choice of milk (whole, soy, almond, THE PECAN ROLL BAKERY lowfat), toppings and flavors, all quick-frozen to fill a taiyaki — 122 S. Eighth St., Fernandina Beach, 491-9815, Asian waffles in a dozen flavors. At about 170 calories, it’s a thepecanrollbakery.com no-brainer. Fillings available in breakfast and lunch options, too. • The neighborhood bakery by the historic district offers sweet and $ K TO L D Daily savory pastries, cookies, cakes, bagels and breads. It’s all fresh, YOBE FROZEN YOGURT made from scratch. • $ K TO B L Wed.-Sun. 119 Bartram Oaks Walk, Ste. 101, Julington, 230-0201 PETERBROOKE CHOCOLATIER 3578 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 384-0733 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 246-0277 544 Marsh Landing Pkwy., Ste. 1, 280-9652 1011 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine, 471-2830 309 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 246-0080 3554 St. Johns Ave., Avondale, 387-3827 8635 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 317-2125 1427 Sadler Rd., Ste. 16, Fernandina Beach, 277-0162 200 CBL Dr., Ste. 103, St. Augustine, 217-8465 1560 Business Center Dr., Fleming Island, 278-7878 103 Marketside Ave., Ste. 303, Nocatee, 824-2678, myyobe.com 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 262-2462 More than 30 flavors of fat-free frozen yogurt and nine kinds of 9640 Crosshill Blvd., Argyle, 771-4355 smoothies, made with lowfat milk and no artificial sweeteners.

4765 Hodges Blvd., Southside, 223-7900 Toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, granola, cereal, chocolate, sprinkles. • $ TO 880 A1A N., Ste. 4, Ponte Vedra, 273-7878 108 Bartram Oaks Walk, Julington, 230-3343 725 Nautica Dr., Northside, 751-3112 2024 San Marco Blvd., 398-2488 BASIL THAI & SUSHI 4413 Town Center Pkwy., Ste. 219, Southside, 565-1073 1004 Hendricks Ave., San Marco, 674-0190, allurethaijax.com 9047 Southside Blvd., Ste. 5, 423-0529, peterbrooke.com Basil Thai serves fresh sushi and authentic Thai cuisine, including This candy shop has Americanized the fine European art of ginger-infused salad, classic Pad Thai curry dishes, ebi roll, sashimi chocolate-making. The chocolate-coated popcorn is to die and daily specials. Craft cocktails. • $$ FB L D Mon.-Sat. for, and the chocolate-covered cherries are a Valentine’s Day BOWL OF PHO tradition. • $$ TO Daily 9902 Old Baymeadows Rd., 646-4455 SIVADA’S CUPCAKERY This spot have a big, varied menu of Vietnamese and Thai dishes 4000 St. Johns Ave., Ste. 27, Avondale, 647-7586, with authentic ingredients, prepared fresh, including egg rolls, grilled sivadascupcakery.com pork and chicken, lotus root salad, and salted fish fried rice. Boba is All the cupcakes are baked fresh daily, with the finest also served. • $$ L D Daily ingredients. There are more than 20 varieties, including specialty BUDDHA THAI BISTRO items like tiramisu, crème brûlée, and strawberry cheesecake. • 301 10th Ave. N., Jax Beach, 372-9149, buddhathaibistro.com $ TO L Mon.-Sat. The proprietors of this Thai restaurant are from Thailand, and every SMOOTHIE KING dish is made with fresh ingredients from tried-and-true recipes, 9901 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 996-9055 beautifully presented. • $$ FB TO L D Daily 13457 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 1, Intracoastal, 221-1299 GREEN PAPAYA 13770 Beach Blvd., Intracoastal, 821-1771 13141 City Station Dr., River City Marketplace, 696-8886, 1661 Riverside Ave., 354-5145 greenpapayafl.com 445 S.R. 13, Fruit Cove, 230-3193 This restaurant features a Pan-Asian menu, specializing in Thai 1835 U.S. 1 S., Ste. 113, St. Augustine, 825-6770 cuisine served in a contemporary atmosphere. • $$ BW TO L D Daily 4624 Town Crossing Dr., Ste. 119, UNF, 996-2889 INDOCHINE 9810 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 4, 642-1777 21 E. Adams St., Ste. 200, Downtown, 598-5303 1020 Third St. S., Jax Beach, 246-6336 1974 San Marco Blvd., 503-7013, indochinejax.com 790 Skymarks Dr., Northside, 527-8329, smoothieking.com 2014 Best of Jax Winner Smoothie King offers nutritional, tasty meal replacements and Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine in the urban core. Signature dishes snacking alternatives — in other words, a variety of smoothies as include chicken Satay, soft shell crab, and mango and sticky rice for well as supplements, vitamins and fat-free goods. • $ TO Daily dessert. • $$ FB TO L D Mon.-Fri.; D Tue.-Sat. SWEET BY HOLLY iPHO • 13799 Beach Blvd., Ste. 1, Intracoastal, 330-0309 4624 Town Crossing Blvd., Ste. 137, St. Johns Town Center, 564This popular family-owned spot offers curry dishes, noodle bowls and 2711, sweetbyholly.com rare beef salad. Everything’s homemade-style. • $ L D Tue.-Thur.

Hollis Wilder, twice a winner on Food Network’s “Cupcake Wars,” LEMONGRASS offers 30 flavors of cupcakes made from scratch daily, plus 12 9846 Old Baymeadows Rd., 645-9911, lemongrassjax.com flavors of frozen yogurt with 48 toppings. • $ TO Daily Lemongrass offers innovative Thai cuisine in a hip, metropolitan SWEET FROG atmosphere. Chef Aphayasane’s creations include crispy whole fish 4413 Town Center Pkwy., Ste. 218, St. Johns Town Center, with pineapple curry reduction. A customer favorite is The Amazing.

329-4689 • $$$ TO L Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.-Sun. 10991 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 292-0901 LIME LEAF 1518 University Blvd. W., Lakewood, 503-1462 9822 Tapestry Park Cir., Ste. 109, Southside, 645-8568, 1661 Riverside Ave., Ste. 128, 619-9745 limeleafrestaurant.com 1094 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 595-5160 Definitive Thai cuisine, from fresh papaya salad to pad Thai to 1581 C.R. 220 E., Ste. 100, Orange Park, 215-1300, seared ahi tuna, plus crispy duck, all elegantly presented. Desserts sweetfrogyogurt.com include mango sweet rice. Limited delivery. • $$ BW L D Mon.-Sat. 2014 Best of Jax Winner PATTAYA THAI GRILLE Sweet Frog Premium Frozen Yogurt offers guilt-free, made-fresh9551 Baymeadows Rd., Ste. 1, 646-9506 daily treats in more than 40 nonfat flavors, like Maple Bacon Donut 1526 King St., 503-4060, ptgrille.com and Thin Mint Cookie. The toppings bar has every item to load up Family-owned Pattaya Thai — Northeast Florida’s original authentic the froyo. • $ TO Daily Thai restaurant — offers an extensive menu of traditional Thai, SWEET PETE’S vegetarian and new-Thai, including curries, seafood, noodles 400 N. Hogan St., Downtown, 376-7161, sweetpetescandy.com and soups. In business since 1990, Pattaya has dishes that are The all-natural sweet shop offers features candy and other treats low-sodium and gluten-free, too. A video screen displays the open made the old-fashioned way: all natural flavors, no artificial kitchen, so you can watch your order being prepared. • $$$ BW TO anything. Choose from a variety of candies and natural products, L Tue.-Sat.; D Tue.-Fri. including several kinds of honey. • $ TO Daily

THAI & VIETNAMESE CUISINE

SALA PHAD THAI • 1716 Third St. N., Jax Beach, 246-7490 Family-owned-and-operated, casual place has extensive menus, including spring rolls, fried squid, beef with oyster sauce and a variety of curried dishes. Vegan-friendly: bean curd delight, noodles and veggies. • $$ TO L Tue.-Sat.; D Sun.-Fri. SALA THAI 10769 Beach Blvd., Ste. 10, Southside, 641-8384, salathaijax.com Sit at a booth decorated like a thatched-roof hut and order from a varied menu. House specialties change weekly. Favorites include pad Thai, mango rice and coconut ice cream. • $$ BW TO L Mon.Fri.; D Nightly THAI GARDEN 10 Blanding Blvd., Ste. B, Orange Park, 272-8434 Thai Garden offers traditional Thai menu items, like pad kraw powh with roasted duck and kaeng kari (yellow curry, potatoes, choice of meat). Fine wines, imported and domestic beers. • $$ BW L Mon.-Fri.; D Nightly THAI ORCHID 12620 Beach Blvd., Ste. 4, Intracoastal, 683-1286, thairestaurantjacksonville.com Authentic Thai cuisine made with fresh ingredients, including pad Thai, Thai curry dishes and rice dishes. • $$ BW L Mon.-Sat.; D Nightly

VEGETARIAN CUISINE & RAW FOODS

THE MANATEE CAFÉ 525 S.R. 16, Ste. 106, St. Augustine, 826-0210, manateecafe.com Manatee Cafe serves organic, vegetarian meals. Owner/chef Cheryl Crosley prepares veggie omelets, tofu Reubens, miso and hummus and tabouli. The Health Food Market offers the same ingredients used in the café’s dishes. • $ TO B L Mon.-Sat. THE PRESENT MOMENT CAFÉ 224 W. King St., St. Augustine, 827-4499, thepresentmomentcafe.com Serves organic, vegan and vegetarian dishes, pizza, pastas, hummus and milkshakes made without meat, dairy, wheat or an oven. Organic beer and wine. • $$ BW TO B L D Mon.-Sat. SOUTHERN ROOTS FILLING STATION 1275 King St., 513-4726, southernrootsjax.com Healthy, light vegan fare made fresh daily with local, organic ingredients. Specials, served on bread, local greens or rice, change daily. Sandwiches, coffees, teas. • $ Tue.-Sun.

WINE, MARTINI & CIGAR BARS

CELLAR 6 ART GALLERY & WINE BAR 6 Aviles St., St. Augustine, 827-9055, cellar6staugustine.com An international array of fine wines, Wolfgang Puck coffees, handmade desserts and light bistro-style fare are served amid displays of local art. • $$ BW Daily THE GROTTO WINE & TAPAS BAR 2012 San Marco Blvd., 398-0726, grottowine.com Serving a tapas menu of artisanal cheese plates, empanadas, bruschettas and homestyle cheesecake, the upscale wine bar has a list of more than 60 wines by the glass. • $$$ BW Tue.-Sun. ROYAL PALM VILLAGE WINE & TAPAS 296 Royal Palms Dr., Atlantic Beach, 372-0052, royalpalmwines.com Locally owned and operated, this spot offers more than 1,200 bottles of fine wine, 200 bottles of beer and 15 rotating microbrewed draft beers to pair with the chef’s creative tapas and seafood. Wine tastings and pairings held weekly. Retail wine sales available. Live music every Thur. • $$ BW L D Mon.-Sat. SANGRIAS TAPAS & PIANO BAR 35 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 827-1947 The balcony of the historic building overlooks St. George Street.

It’s an ideal place to hang, sipping one of seven signature (and individually prepared) sangrias. Spanish-style tapas also served.

Live music nightly. • $$ BW L D Daily THE WINE BAR 320 N. First St., Jax Beach, 372-0211, thewinebaruncorked.com The casual neighborhood wine bar has a wide variety of wine, beer, appetizers and cigars. Live music Fri.-Sun.; wine tastings are offered. • $ BW D Tue.-Sun.

T O P

T H R E E

L E A D E R S

Local Hero

Tim Tebow Shad Khan Wayne Wood

Best BBQ Mojo 4Rivers Bono’s

Best Local Musician/Band

Grandpa’s Cough Medicine Whiskey Dogs The Band Be Easy

Best Reason To Love N.E.FL Beach One Spark Weather

Best Live Music Club Underbelly Freebird Live Maverick’s

Best Realtor

Shelton Scaife @ Coldwell Banker Michael Daugustinis @ Coldwell Banker Crissie Cudd @ Watson Realty

Best Spiritual Leader

Joby Martin @ Church of Eleven22 Joe Vieiria @ Beaches Vineyard John Allen Newman @ Mount Calvary

A S

O F

A U G .

Best Craft Cocktail Spot Dos Gatos Sidecar Volstead

Best Restaurant In Jacksonville Orsay Black Sheep Bistro AIX

Best Barista

Taylor Wilmeth @ Lillie’s Coffee Mike Ricci @ Brew Five Points Sam @ Starbucks 10th Ave. S.

Best Chef

Josh Agan @ Flying Iguana Tom Gray @ Moxie Ian Lynch @ Ovinte & Bistro AIX

Best Burger In Jacksonville MShack Blind Rabbit Poe’s Tavern

Best Local Artist Chip Southworth Shaun Thurston Jim Draper

Best Sandwich Shop Surfwiches Angie’s Subs European Street

Best Pizza in Jax

Best Happy Hour

Best Craft Brewery

Best Hair Salon

Moon River Mellow Mushroom V Pizza Intuition Bold City Aardwolf

1 1

European Street Sidecar Orsay

Frangipani Cortello Verde Eco-Salon

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 39

A&E // FILM

SUPER ZEROES

W

hat a misfire. It’s inexplicable how a story with Marvel Comics origins, not to mention two previous failed cinematic adventures in 2005 and ’07, could be so poorly told. Blame director Josh Trank (Chronicle) who, rumor has it, was fired from an upcoming Star Wars spinoff because of his erratic behavior while making this film.

It’s an origin story, starting with Reed Richards and his friend Ben Grimm in fifth grade. We certainly didn’t need to see them in elementary school but this in microcosm is the film’s problem: Far too much exposition, not enough actual story. It takes about an hour for the titular “Four” to get their superpowers, another 20 minutes before there’s finally a villain, and 20 minutes later, the movie is over.

These are 100 of the most misshapen and illconceived movie minutes you’ll ever see.

During the first hour, science supernerd teen Reed (Miles Teller) invents the ability to teleport matter to an alternate dimension.

He’s given a full scholarship to a science institute, where he works around the clock to continue developing the idea and completely

SOMBER SENDOFFS FASCINATION WITH THE APOCALYPSE CONTINUES in the movies, the only variable being what form the final doom might take. Here are two very different versions you may have missed.

In 2011’s Perfect Sense, Ewan McGregor and Eva Green play two self-absorbed individuals who find one another as the world about them falls into chaos. One of the more unusual such films, the movie avoids special effects and rational explanation, instead focusing on how its characters respond to their increasing disassociation with the world around them.

Michael (McGregor) is a chef who, at the beginning of the film, sends his current one-night stand packing because, as he tells her, he can’t really sleep with someone else in the bed. Susan (Green), an epidemiologist, walks along a seashore throwing stones at seagulls, her way of coping with another failed love.

Meanwhile, an unnamed narrator describes the larger world backdrop. Without explanation, though officials look desperately for a medical cause, humans begin to lose their physical senses, each new deprivation preceded by an accompanying symptom. A wave of inconsolable grief gives way to a loss of the sense of smell. The disappearance of taste is heralded by a gluttonous binge on anything (and I mean anything) available. And so on.

Interspersed with worldwide footage of the epidemic is the developing story of Michael and Susan, self-avowed “assholes” who discover love in 40 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

Needless update of Marvel Comics characters is HEROICALLY BAD

ignores everything else that’s supposed to Kinberg, and Jeremy Slater, and seem to be come with a college education. Under the having fun with their roles. And the fact that supervision of Franklin Storm (Reg. E. the story takes a gritty scientific “body horror” Cathey), helping Reed figure out where the transformation approach is actually rather teleportation goes (and how to return from cool, but it’s all for naught when the overall it) are Sue Storm (Kate Mara), her brother construction of the movie is this off-key.

Johnny (Michael B. Jordan), and Victor Von This is the third disappointing Fantastic Doom (Toby Kebbell), who’s a bit of a wild Four movie from 20th Century Fox in the last card. One too many montages 10 years, and what’s especially later, the experiment succeeds, galling is that this version feels FANTASTIC FOUR with a chimp as test subject. like a big setup for more. An **@@ After a good round of drinking, entire movie should never Rated PG-13 Reed, old friend Ben (Jamie feel like the beginning of Bell), Johnny and Victor teleport something greater, largely themselves. Disaster strikes, and even Sue is because that something greater may never affected as she helps them return. Now Reed come (remember The Golden Compass?). is super-stretchy, Johnny is ablaze, Ben is a Unsurprisingly, a Fantastic Four sequel rock “thing,” Sue turns invisible, and Victor is is scheduled for June 2017. At this point, presumed dead. you have to doubt that’s going to happen, given the likely critical drubbing and poor The sad thing is, the potential is present box office performance this film will get. It’s and undeniable. The visual effects are fine, probably a good thing if no more Fantastic though there’s not enough action and it’s hard Four sequels ever happen. to see where the entire $122 million budget Dan Hudak went. The actors make the most of the cheesy mail@folioweekly.com dialog they’re given by writers Trank, Simon

MAGIC LANTERNS

the process of losing everything else. Unlike Steven Soderbergh’s Contagion, director David Mackenzie’s film is not a thriller nor is it really science-fiction.

At heart, it’s a very unusual love story and perhaps a moral fable or allegory about human relationships, not unlike Fernando Meirelles’s Blindness (2008).

What makes Perfect Sense palatable (forgive the pun) is the chemistry between Ewan McGregor and Eva Green, two of the most fearless and engaging performers today. They’ve both consistently hit the mark in the widest range of films imaginable – Trainspotting, Velvet Goldmine, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, and Salmon Fishing in the Yemen for him; for her, Casino Royale, Bertolucci’s The Dreamers, and TV’s Penny Dreadful.

Together, Green and McGregor infuse life and passion in the otherwise quite bleak Perfect Sense.

A very different kind of global fate is envisioned in The Quiet Earth (pictured), a 1985 sci-fi film from New Zealand (the first such effort from that country, two years ahead of Peter Jackson’s debut effort, Bad Taste). A man awakens to discover he’s apparently the only person left on Earth, possibly the result of a scientific experiment coordinated with the United States military.

For the film’s first 45 minutes, Zac (Bruno Lawrence) wanders an empty city and its environs, struggling to cope with his aloneness. Then he meets

Joanne (Alison Routledge) and, later, Maori survivor Api (Pete Smith). In a similar vein, the 1959 American film The World, the Flesh, and the Devil posited a post-nuclear New York with only three survivors (Mel Ferrer, Inger Stevens, Harry Belafonte), the sexual/ racial angle emerging as a major focus. Neither issue is a central concern in The Quiet Earth.

Absolutely engrossing from start to finish, Quiet Earth slowly reveals what its three survivors have in common and then moves to a stunning conclusion that visually (and thematically) is almost as mindblowing as the end of 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Director Geoff Murphy had little success outside his native New Zealand, and Lawrence (a marvelous actor, probably best known for earlier films Smash Palace and Utu) died 10 years later, way too young at age 54.

The Quiet Earth, however, is an abiding testament to their considerable talents.

Pat McLeod mail@folioweekly.com

FILM LISTINGS FILM RATINGS

Vanilla Fudge **** Vanilla Swirl **@@

Vanilla Latte ***@ Vanilla Ice *@@@

SCREENINGS AROUND TOWN

SUMMER MOVIE CLASSICS Last week we had the wrong date for Jaws – let’s see if we can get the next movie classic right. OK, here goes: It’s a John Waters 25th anniversary double billing: Hairspray and Cry-Baby are screened at 8 p.m. Aug. 15 at The Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Downtown, $7.50, 355-2787, floridatheatre.com. Whew!

SUN-RAY CINEMA Trainwreck and Irrational Man screen at 1028 Park St., 5 Points, 359-0049, sunraycinema.com.

Tangerine, Salad Days and Amy start Aug. 14.

THE CORAZON CINEMA & CAFÉ White God and Child 44 screen at 36 Granada St., St. Augustine, 679-5736, corazoncinemaandcafe.com. Monty Python The Meaning of Life runs at noon Aug. 13. Kumiko The Treasure Hunter starts Aug. 14. Nanny McPhee is shown noon Aug. 17.

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE ROGUE NATION Rated R One of the most charmingly goofy things about the continued success of this franchise is that, ever since they stopped chapter numbers, every installment must include two kinds of punctuation. Christopher McQuarrie directs the new one, where a bunch of new characters played by renowned selfworshipper Alec Baldwin, plus Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Ving Rhames, Tom Hollander and, of course, that unicorn-lover we all adore – Tom Cruise. — S.S. PAPER TOWNS Rated PG-13 Drama/mystery/rom costars Nat Wolff, Austin Abrams, Cara Delevingne, Justice Smith.

PIXELS ***@ Rated PG-13 In 1982, the U.S. sent a space probe time capsule – with some arcade games – into orbit. The extraterrestrial lifeforms that got the probe thought it was a declaration of war. Now Earth is being attacked in the form of Galaga, Centipede, Pac-Man, Asteroids, Defender and other classic games. So the people best suited to fight them are early ’80s video game champs, a motley bunch of adults. Costars Adam Sandler, the gorgeous Peter Dinklage, Josh Gad, Kevin James (as the POTUS!), Ashley Benson and Michelle Monaghan. Cameos by Sean Bean, Serena Williams, Dan Aykroyd and Jane Krakowski. — D.H.

A POEM IS A NAKED PERSON **@@ Not Rated Reviewed in this issue.

ends up in the city and has to find his way back to more comfortable surroundings. — S.S.

RICKI AND THE FLASH **@@ Rated PG-13 Meryl Streep plays Ricki Randazzo, a mother of three who 20 years ago decided being in a rock ’n’ roll cover band was better than being a mom. She plays cover songs at a bar by night and is a grocery store cashier by day. Her ex, Pete (Kevin Kline), father of her kids, married Maureen (Audra McDonald), a loving and attentive mother. Son Josh (Sebastian Stan) is engaged to Emily (Hailey Gates) and seems well-adjusted; son Adam (Nick Westrate) hates his mom. Ricki returns home after a call from Pete about their daughter Julie (Mamie Gummer, Streep’s real daughter), whose husband just left her for another woman. Rick Springfield, guitarist in the band and Ricki’s love, reaches levels of unexpected emotional poignancy. The soundtrack has classic and modern pop hits – Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” and Tom Petty’s “American Girl” – most of which are sung by Streep and Springfield.

But even these can’t salvage this wasted effort. Maybe she should’ve sung “Even the Losers” instead. — D.H.

SOUTHPAW Rated R Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Billy Hope, a talented boxer with demons. Rachel McAdams is his wife Maureen. Costars Forest Whitaker, Curtis Jackson (aka 50 Cent) and Naomie Harris.

SHAUN THE SHEEP MOVIE Rated PG The Wallace & Gromit scene-stealer gets his own movie, in which he

STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON Rated R NWA hits hip hop with the full force of the harsh reality of their lives and their undeniable talent. Costars O’Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, Paul Giamatti and Carra Patterson.

TRAINWRECK **@@ Rated R The vulgar, femaledriven comedy costars Amy Schumer, Colin Quinn, John Cena, Tilda Swinton (for once playing a woman), Bill Hader and LeBron James. Really. King James! Judd Apatow directed the much-ballyhooed yet mediocre movie.

VACATION Rated R Ed Helms stars as Rusty Griswold, Clark and Ellen’s son, who takes his family on a road trip to reconnect. Costars Christina Applegate, Skyler Gisondo, Chris Hemsworth and Leslie Mann.

LATITUDE 360 MOVIES Home screens at Latitude 360’s CineGrille, 10370 Philips Highway, Southside, 365-5555.

IMAX THEATER Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation, Galapagos 3D and Humpback Whales, World Golf Village Hall of Fame IMAX Theater, St. Augustine, 940-4133, worldgolfimax.com.

NOW SHOWING

ANT-MAN ***@ Rated PG-13 Marvel Studios’ super-hero feature stars Paul Rudd as Scott Lang, whose alter-ego is the teeny crusader against evil … sort of.

Costars Michael Douglas as the scientist Hank Pym and Abby Ryder Fortson as Scott’s daughter Cassie, as well as Corey Stoll, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Peña and Judy Greer.

— Scott Renshaw

FANTASTIC FOUR **@@ Rated PG-13 Reviewed in this issue.

THE GIFT Rated R In the mystery/thriller, Simon (Jason Bateman) has his life threatened by the reappearance of an old friend with whom he shares a dark secret. Costars Joel Edgerton, Rebecca Hall, Busy Phillips and David Denman.

INFINITELY POLAR BEAR **** Rated R Mark Ruffalo plays Cam Stuart, a manic-depressive who’s unpredictable and loving. His wife Maggie (Zoe Saldana) loves him but is worried about his erratic behavior. Maggie leaves their preteen daughters Amelia (Imogene Wolodarsky) and Faith (Ashley Aufderheide) with Cam in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to go to grad school in New York City. Cam, with a full bottle of lithium medication, accepts his responsibility with open arms and few clues. What’s great about Ruffalo’s performance is that Cam is a caring, devoted father who happens to be manic-depressive, not a manic-depressive who tries to be a good father. Writerdirector Maya Forbes keeps the film moving – no plot holes, no gaps of logic, no tedious scenes. — Dan Hudak INSIDE OUT ***G Rated PG Director Pete Docter packed emotional complexity in a great movie. Inside us all is an emotional “control room,” with physical manifestations of those emotions responding to the things that push our metaphorical buttons by pushing literal buttons. For 11-yearold Riley (Kailyn Dias), a girl whose parents (Kyle MacLachlan, Diane Lane) have just moved the family from Minnesota to San Francisco, those emotions take the form of Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Fear (Bill Hader), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) and Anger (Lewis Black). As Riley struggles to adjust to her new home and new surroundings, Joy and Sadness inadvertently wind up whisked away to the far reaches of Riley’s subconscious, trying to preserve the happiness of Riley’s “core memories” and make their way back. — S.R. JURASSIC WORLD **@@ Rated PG-13 “Nobody’s impressed by a dinosaur anymore,” says operations manager Claire (Bryce Dallas Howard), and how true that is for moviegoers as well: Visual effects are way beyond what they were in 1993 when Jurassic Park was a box-office smash; that film’s ho-hum sequels made fans weary of the Jurassic world. So executive producer Steven Spielberg and director Colin Trevorrow did something great with this one, right? The franchise should’ve remained extinct. It’s a big, humorless, drab movie. Costars Judy Greer, Ty Simpkins, Nick Robinson, Chris Pratt, Omar Sy and Vincent D’Onofrio. — D.H. THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E. Rated PG-13 Remake of a 1960s TV series that showcased the CIA and KGB working together against big-time crime. Costars Armie Hammer, Henry Cavill and Hugh Grant; David Beckham cameos.

MAX Rated PG Director Boaz Yakin’s film is about a dog that comes home – without his Marine buddy, who died in the line of duty. Costars Josh Wiggins, Thomas Haden Church and Lauren Graham. — Steve Scheinder MINIONS **@@ Rated PG In 1968 (before they were devotees of baddie Gru), the Minions aid and abet the world’s first female supervillain, Scarlet Overkill (voice of Sandra Bullock), who plans to take over the British monarchy. Little kids will laugh at the slapstick. — MaryAnn Johanson

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 41

A&E // FILM The recently unearthed LEON RUSSELL documentary is long overdue yet sadly underwhelming

CLOSE UP THE HONKY TONKS

D

Jim Franklin painting a swirly psychedelic on’t let what follows fool you: The recent tableau on Russell’s empty swimming pool release of Les Blank’s 1974 film A Poem is walls. Parachuting, a parade, a wedding, and a Naked Person is surely some kind of a a “goose grab” (see film for explanation) all cause for celebration. But the revelry winds up elevate the filmic experience to inadvertent being a little boring due to some hackneyed comedy. Wanna see a guy completely lose his onscreen hijinks. shit on some gnarly, surely-washtub-synthesized Filmed between 1972 and ’74, A Poem drug in a motel room? Who doesn’t? Stick chronicles music wizard Leon Russell as he around for the third reel. Spoiler alert: Further commandeers stage and studio. Director retinal irritants include needless footage of a Blank had screened the film just a handful of boa eating a baby chick (due to some “cycle of times upon its release some 40-plus years ago. life/death” analogy) and plenty of voiceovers of Since then, it’s been languishing in the vaults. illegally relaxed hippie yokels dropping fringeBlank passed away in 2013 and, seemingly, jacket wisdom like: “The only dumb animal is since then Blank’s now-adult-son, Harrod, a dead animal and we’re all dumb made it a personal campaign because we’re all gonna die.” In to rerelease the film. Originally A POEM IS A your face, Heraclitus! bankrolled by Russell and his The film features a recurring then-business partner Denny NAKED PERSON cast but no real cohesion/story, Cordell, famed British record **@@ so in that regard, Blank was a producer, yet even recently, Russell Not Rated pioneer of current Hollywood had dismissed A Poem. But the moviemaking. If you can survive now-73-year-old Russell eventually this barrage of overreaching “art,” you’ll got on board. Whether the resulting film is a witness a great moment of Russell performing crucial music documentary or an early ’70s “A Song for You.” relic depends on the viewer’s taste, love of Both of us diehards, last year, my girlfriend all things Leon Russell, or tolerance for rock and I saw Russell perform to a packed house at people and wannabes yammering aimlessly.

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. While we both felt The film opens with Russell rocking like the bona fide legend kind of “phoned it in,” the house in some unnamed concert hall, quite frankly, he could’ve repeatedly read the ostensibly in his home state of Oklahoma serial number on his keyboard and I would’ve where much of the film was made. Soon the been satisfied. I was there to genuflect as much action shifts to Russell in the studio, working as anything else. I did not experience the same with country legend George Jones. Over the kind of holy devotion while watching A Poem. course of the film’s 90 minutes, other music Why not? Because there was no energy, no celebs make cameo appearances, some for consistency, which is all the more surprising mere seconds (Mama Cass), others with more since Les Blank wound up making two of screen time (Willie Nelson). I admittedly the more memorable documentaries in hoped to see much footage of Russell onstage and recording. But a major gripe with A Poem, contemporary cinema. The self-explanatory which captures a then-ascendant solo artist, Werner Herzog Eats His Shoe (1980) and is that there’s roughly a combined total of 15 Burden of Dreams (1982), which followed the minutes of Russell playing music. And that’s disastrous and even ethically questionable where the blues begins. production of Herzog’s cinematic behemoth A Poem is padded with vignettes of from that same year, Fitzcarraldo. And that’s conversations and other countercultural eye sad, since what could have been an exciting candy that translates as being more dumbed and lively discovery of a key phase of Leon than dated. Combine this with Blank’s weirdly Russell’s career plays out like a Quaaludedriven home movie or, even worse, a blatant edits, i.e., gospel music is mentioned; cut countercultural artifact of limited value. to a church full of people singing gospel, and Daniel A. Brown you have a cinematic wipeout. Rambling stonerdbrown@folioweekly.com isms fight for occupancy against scenes of artist

42 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

A&E //ARTS

FORGED AHEAD

OUTDOOR EXHIBIT at the Cummer of Museum of Art & Gardens celebrates a forward-thinking 20th century sculptor

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: “Mother Dancing,” “Happy Children,” and “Bird’s Nest.”

Photos © Juliana Larrosa

I

Gross was also a well-known educator n Tightrope Dancer, a 1974 large-scale bronze sculpture, a woman is delicately and wrote a book, The Techniques of Wood poised to traverse a tightrope as she holds Sculpture (1957), which became highly a parasol. In Symphony of Birds (1962), also a influential in the realm of wood sculpture. large-scale bronze sculpture, nearly a dozen “He taught hundreds of sculpture students dove-like fledglings flutter up through a for over five decades in New York City at the diagonal-shaped column.

Educational Alliance, the school at the Brooklyn These are just a few of the works by Museum back when they had one, the Art American artist Chaim Gross currently on Students League and the New School,” explains display at the Cummer Museum of Art & Dr. Susan Fisher, executive director of Renee Gardens’ outdoor sculpture garden in Riverside. and Chaim Gross Foundation.

“Certainly, we know that most bronze Over the past six decades, Gross’ bronze sculptures and many other sculptures are works have gained worldwide notoriety, perfectly capable of being outside,” explains including the eight currently on display at the Cummer’s chief curator, Holly Keris, of the Cummer, with seven works exhibited outdoors museum’s relatively new outdoor exhibition and one displayed inside the museum. space. “But whether or not their owners “Because the sculpture garden is located would choose to lend them to be in an on our front lawn, the pieces are accessible 24 outside location is a little hours a day,” Keris says. “It’s bit different.” the kind of space where we ALL TOGETHER: THE On display through see walkers in the morning SCULPTURE OF CHAIM GROSS Oct. 4, All Together: The come through with their Cummer Museum of Art Sculpture of Chaim Gross dogs and we see joggers in & Gardens, Riverside, is the museum’s second the evening make that part cummermuseum.org outdoor installation and of their route.”

On display through Oct. 4 one that’s been in the And like any works since 2013. installation of this “I was exploring some options of work magnitude, Gross’ exhibition proved to have that could be borrowed and people would its own set of obstacles. be OK with being outside,” says Keris.

“Certainly, transportation is one “Thankfully, I made contact with the [Renee component of it because they are oversized and] Chaim Gross Foundation out of New and they are heavy,” Keris explains of having York and it was super that they were so the sculptures professionally shipped in agreeable to lend us enough works to really trucks from New York. “And then the populate the entire garden.” logistics of actually getting them installed American sculptor Chaim Gross (1904here and integrated into the landscape design ’91) made a name for himself in the first half [was challenging].” of the 20th century for his figurative direct Since All Together: The Sculpture of carvings in wood. In the mid-1950s, Gross Chaim Gross has been on display for the started making large-scale bronze sculptures better part of the past year, many Riverside — churning out approximately 300 of them residents and visitors have had the chance to through the 1980s. view Gross’ works.

“The principle works of the last 20 years “It’s so exciting to see people really have been modeled in plaster on armatures for interacting with the space in the off hours, bronze casts,” art scholar Roberta Tarbell once in the way we’d hoped they would, when you wrote about Gross’ process. “Most sculptors put something like that on your front lawn,” model in clay and have casts made by the lostsays Keris. “It’s a great exhibition. We love the wax method. Gross models in plaster, which is pieces and we’ve heard such great feedback difficult because the material dries so quickly, from visitors and our members.” and has bronzes cast in French sand from the Kara Pound original plaster model.” mail@folioweekly.com AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 43

ARTS + EVENTS

FIRST STREET GALLERY 216-B First St., Neptune Beach, 241-6928. Silk Paintings by Beth Haizlip, through Aug. 25.

HAWTHORN SALON 1011 Park St., Riverside, 619-3092, hawthornsalon.com. Sara Pedigo’s Brimming with Casual News, through August.

HUBLEY GALLERY 804 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 429-9769. New works by Mary Hubley and Dennis Bernhardt are on display through August.

ROTUNDA GALLERY St. Johns County Admin. Bldg., 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine, 471-9980. Photographs by Kenneth M. Barrett Jr. display through Oct. 22.

SOUTHLIGHT GALLERY 201 N. Hogan St., Ste. 100, Downtown, 553-6361, southlightgallery.com. ABSTRACT X, works by local abstract artists, through Aug. 28. Theresa Segal is the featured artist for August.

ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION 22 Marine St., 824-2310, staaa.org. Nature & Wildlife Exhibition, through August.

ST. AUGUSTINE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 10 W. Castillo Dr., 825-1053.Tapestry: The Cultural Threads of First America, through Oct. 4.

EVENTS

Oil paintings by renowned 20th-century plein air artist Emmett Fritz (1917-’75) are displayed at Butterfield Garage Art Gallery through August in St. Augustine.

PERFORMANCE

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW 1904 Music Hall presents Richard O’Brien’s 1973 campy musical, about a naïve couple in the home of a transvestite mad scientist, who unveils his “Frankenstein”-style beefcake creation, 8 p.m. Aug. 14, 21 and 22, and 8 and 11 p.m. Aug. 15, 19 Ocean St., Downtown, $25-$35, 1904musichall.com.

THE SASSY TAPPERS & MINDREADER JUSTIN MYER The tap dance troupe and a mindreader perform 8 p.m. Aug. 15 at Adele Grage Cultural Center, 716 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-7177, $20, abettheatre.com.

BEYOND THERAPY Limelight Theatre stages Christopher Durang’s adult-themed romcom, about two neurotic Manhattanites and their nutty shrinks, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 13, 14 and 15 and 2 p.m. Aug. 16, 11 Old Mission Ave., St. Augustine, 825-1164, $25; $23 seniors, $20 military/ students; through Aug. 30, limelight-theatre.org.

HARVEY Charles Shaughnessy stars in Mary Chase’s 1944 Pulitzer-winning comedy about a small town bachelor and his imaginary friend – a giant rabbit – through Sept. 6. Executive Chef DeJuan Roy offers a themed menu. Alhambra Theatre & Dining, 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside, 641-1212, $35-$55, alhambrajax.com.

CLASSICAL, CHOIR & JAZZ

PIANO RECITAL Pianist Pierre Laurent Boucharlat performs works by Beethoven, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 14 at Friday Musicale, 645 Oak St., Riverside, 355-7584, fridaymusicale.com.

CHRIS THOMAS BAND Thomas leads his horn-driven band, playing Motown classics and current hits, 6 p.m. Aug. 17 at Alhambra Theatre & Dining, 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside, 641-1212, $20; special à la carte menu, alhambrajax.com.

FLEMING ISLAND BRASS CONCERT Navy Band Southeast’s Windward Brass Quintet plays 6:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at Clay County Library, 1895 Town Center Blvd., 278-3722, claycountygov.com.

COMEDY

NEPHEW TOMMY & FRIENDS Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles, of the Steve Harvey Morning Show, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 14 at The Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Downtown, $43.50$78.50, 355-2787, floridatheatre.com.

ARNEZ J The comic, of Def Comedy Jam, is on 8 p.m. Aug. 13 and 8 and 10 p.m. Aug. 14 and 15 at The Comedy Zone, 3130 Hartley Rd., Mandarin, $25-$30, 292-4242, comedyzone.com.

MARVIN HUNTER His motto: “Don’t Knock Foolishness … It’s Nourishment for Funny.” 7:30 and 10 p.m. Aug. 14 and 15 at Latitude 360, 10370 Philips Hwy., Southside, $15, 365-5555, latitude360.com.

CALLS & WORKSHOPS

ACTORS WANTED Amelia Community Theatre auditions for two men for Freud’s Last Session, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 15 at 207 Cedar St., Fernandina, 261-6749, ameliacommunitytheatre.org.

CALL FOR ARTISTS Aug. 14 is the deadline to apply to exhibit at St. Augustine Art & Craft Festival, Nov. 28 and 29, 824-2310, festival@staaa.org.

CALL FOR ART St. Augustine Art Association seeks works including 2D & 3D pieces reflecting the town’s landscape, people, wildlife, history and culture for its Celebrate St. Augustine exhibit, opening Sept. 4. All works must have been created in the last three years. Deadline Sept. 2; staaa.org.

44 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

MUSICIANS NEEDED Amelia Musical Playhouse seeks musicians for Rocky Horror Show. 277-3455, dilljill@msn.com.

ART WALKS & MARKETS

WEDNESDAY MARKET Produce, arts, crafts, clothes, food, music, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Aug. 12, St. Johns Pier Park, 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach, free, 347-8007, thecivicassociation.org.

DOWNTOWN FRIDAY MARKET Arts & crafts, local produce, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 14, Jax Landing, Downtown, 353-1188.

RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET Local /regional art, free yoga session 9 a.m. – Mark Williams, Sam Pacetti, Joey Kerr, Insel 10:30 a.m. Aug. 15 – food artists and a farmers’ row, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. every Sat. under Fuller Warren Bridge, 715 Riverside Ave., free admission, 389-2449, riversideartsmarket.com.

MUSEUMS

AMELIA ISLAND MUSEUM OF HISTORY 233 S. Third St., Fernandina Beach, 261-7378, ameliamuseum.org. Florida in WWII is on display through September. It Came from the Attic: Local War Memorabilia Collections, through November. Open daily; $7 adults, $4 students/active military.

AMERICAN BEACH MUSEUM American Beach Community Center, 1600 Julia St., Fernandina, 277-7960, nassaucountyfl. com/facilities. The Sands of Time: An American Beach Story, celebrating MaVynee Betsch, “The Beach Lady,” is on display.

BEACHES MUSEUM & HISTORY PARK 381 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 241-5657, beachesmuseum.org. Hblanton2-Heather & Holly Blanton is on display through Oct. 4.

CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS 829 Riverside Ave., 356-6857, cummer.org. Whitfield Lovell: Deep River, through Sept. 13. Reflections: Artful Perspectives on the St. Johns River, through Oct. 18. All Together: The Sculpture of Chaim Gross, through Oct. 4. British Watercolors exhibits through Nov. 29. Public garden tours 11 a.m. every Tue. and Thur. Free admission 4-9 p.m. every Tue., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. every first Sat. KARPELES MANUSCRIPT MUSEUM 101 W. First St., Springfield, 356-2992. The Addams Family: Part Two, through Aug. 26.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART JACKSONVILLE 333 N. Laura St., Downtown, 366-6911, mocajacksonville.com. Project Atrium: Joelle Dietrick is on display through Oct. 25. Southern Exposure: Portraits of a Changing Landscape, through Aug. 30.

In Time We Shall Know Ourselves: The Photographs of Raymond Smith, through Aug. 30. The Art Aviators Exhibition, through Aug. 16. Phil Parker’s Assemblage/Collage, in UNF Gallery, through Aug. 30. Free admission 4-9 p.m. every Thur. in summer.

GALLERIES

ADELE GRAGE CULTURAL CENTER 716 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-7177, abettheatre.com. An exhibit of new works by photographer Jay Solomon is on display through August.

THE ART CENTER II 229 N. Hogan St., Downtown, 355-1757.

Michael Cenci is the featured artist for August.

TAC GALLERY AT THE LANDING 2 Independent Dr., Downtown, 355-1757. Images of Nurture is on display.

BUTTERFIELD GARAGE ART GALLERY 137 King St., St. Augustine, 825-4577. Emmett Fritz’s works, through August.

C.A.S.K. Wine Shop & Bar 1049 Park St., Riverside, 568-1828.

An exhibit of new prints by Margete Griffin is on display.

THE CULTURAL CENTER AT PONTE VEDRA BEACH 50 Executive Way, 280-0614, ccpvb.org. Maria Valdez Dugger’s Spiral Series, through Sept. 3. Environments: Real and Imagined, Sara Pedigo and Ronald Gibbons’ works, through Sept. 3.

SILENT PEACE MEDITATION Meditation teacher Kathleen Roberts leads a meditation, Jade Forest provides ambient accompaniment with Tibetan singing bowls, 7 p.m. Aug. 12 at St. Johns County Main Library, 1960 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, 827-6940, sjcpls.org.

JACKSONVILLE ARMADA VS. CAROLINA RAILHAWKS Local football faves Jacksonville Armada take on Carolina Railhawks, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 12 at Baseball Grounds, 301 Randolph Blvd., Downtown, tickets start at $14, 633-6100, ticketmaster.com.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS VS. PITTSBURGH STEELERS Local NFLers Black & Teal take on the Black & Gold in the preseason game, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 14, EverBank Field, Downtown, $42-$470, 633-6100, ticketmaster.com.

BENEFIT GALA Growers Alliance holds a benefit and silent auction, with Kenyan cuisine and cash bar, 5 p.m. Aug. 16 at Renaissance World Golf Village Resort, 500 S. Legacy Trail, St. Augustine. Tickets $35; proceeds benefit the Mission to Kenya to build an orphanage for HIV/AIDS positive children. growersalliance.com.

FIGHT GAMES A three-legged-race, tug-o’-war, tricycle race, egg toss, sack race, and best T-shirt competition are featured, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 15, The Bolles School’s Skinner-Barco Stadium, 7400 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, $400/per team of 10; winners get trophies and awards; food available for purchase onsite; proceeds benefit Hunger Fight’s food pantry programs. To register, go to hungerfight.org.

WRITERS WORKSHOP Editor, writer and publisher Nancy Quatrano offers “The Scoop on Backstory: 10 Tips to Develop and Use It Effectively” 10 a.m. Aug. 15, St. Johns County Main Library, 1960 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd., 827-6940, sjcpls.org.

PLANT CLINIC St. Johns County master gardeners answer lawn and garden questions, 10 a.m.-noon Aug. 15, Bartram Trail Branch Library, 60 Davis Pond Rd., 827-6960, sjcpls.org.

KING ST. BBQ FUNDRAISER The take-out barbecue restaurant is raising funds for a Riverside-based food truck. Live blues music is featured; tickets are meat or vegan specific, with gluten-free and regular options. Each ticket includes one free Bold City Brewery beer. 6-9 p.m. Aug. 15, Bold City Brewery, 2670 Gilmore St., Ste. 7, Riverside, $60, itrulycare.com/events/ king-st-bbq-fundraiser-at-bold-city-brewery.

MOTORCYCLE SWAP MEET Accessories, live music and food, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Aug. 16 at St. Augustine Flea Market, 2495 S.R. 207, 824-4210, staugustinefleamarket.com. The meet is held the third Sun. of every month.

FIRST COAST FREETHOUGHT SOCIETY Jay S. Huebner, PhD, discusses “Colonization of the Inner Solar System,” 6:30 p.m.

Aug. 17, Buckman Bridge Unitarian Church, 8447 Manresa Ave., Orange Park, 419-8826, firstcoastfreethoughtsociety.org.

AUTHOR AT MANDARIN LIBRARY Charles Martin discusses his latest works, A Life Intercepted and Water from My Heart, 7 p.m. Aug. 18, 3330 Kori Rd., 262-5201, jaxpubliclibrary.org.

CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY BENEFIT GastroJax and The Art Institute of Jacksonville join forces for a fundraising foodie event, Generation Italiano, a family-style dinner benefitting teen mothers in the care of Children’s Home Society of Florida, 7 p.m. Aug. 19, The Art Institute of Jacksonville, 8775 Baypine Rd., Baymeadows, $45, chsfl.org.

AMELIA RIVER CRUISES Adult Twilight BYOB Cruises every Thur., Fri. and Sat., with live music – Yancy Clegg Aug. 13 & 15, Jim Barcaro Aug. 14 – from Amelia River Cruises, 1 N. Front St., Fernandina, 261-9972; ameliarivercruises.com.

JACKSONVILLE SUNS The Suns crank up a homestand against the Mobile BayBears at 7:05 p.m. Aug. 18 (Folio Weekly 50-Cent Family Feast Night) and Aug. 19, Aug. 20 (Thursday Night Throwdown), Aug. 21 (Used Car Giveaway Night) and Aug. 22 (Christmas in August, Bark in the Park, Suns Peppermint Stripe Cap Giveaway). All the action is at Bragan Field, Baseball Grounds, 301 Randolph Blvd., Downtown. Tickets $7.50-$25.50; 358-2846, jaxsuns.com.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS/ALATEEN When you don’t know where to turn because someone drinks too much. Al-Anon and Alateen can help families and friends of alcoholics. Daily meetings in Northeast Florida. 904-350-0600, jaxafg.org.

DEPRESSION/BIPOLAR SUPPORT The local chapter of the nonprofit Depression Bipolar Support Alliance meets 6-7:30 p.m. every Tue. at Baptist Hospital Pavilion, fifth floor, Rm. 3, 800 Prudential Dr., Southbank, dbsalliance.org.

DAILY EVENTS AT HEMMING PARK Free yoga, group fitness and live music, across from City Hall, 117 W. Duval St., Downtown; hemmingpark.org/hemming-park-events.

JR. WATERMAN’S CAMP Black Creek Guides sessions Aug. 10-14 and 17-21, with SUP lessons, paddle and watersports, safety, techniques, ages 7-15; blackcreekguides.com.

A&E // MUSIC “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC maintains his legacy as the maestro of musical parody

videos. So I’m sure if I wanted to do one or two videos on the cheap, they would come through, but I got the impression that they weren’t very happy with some of my videos. [Laughs.] So that gave me the impetus to reach out to all of these partners and still turn out quality product but not have to do it on the label’s nickel.

Is your new song, “Mission Statement,” which combines industry jargon with a parody of Crosby, Stills & Nash, pulled directly from those types of meetings?

Oh, yeah. [Laughs.] I’ve been in enough marketing meetings with business people where I’ve gleaned “business-speak” over the years.

THE KING OF MOCK T

he title of a 1986 live album by the late, great Frank Zappa posed the question, “Does Humor Belong in Music?” When it comes to his fellow musician anarchist and certain humorous descendant “Weird Al” Yankovic, the answer remains a resounding “yes.” Mocking hit songs and pop culture for nearly 40 years, Yankovic has sold 12 million albums, scored four Grammys, released a 1989 cult fave film UHF, and issued a series of hit singles and equally lauded accompanying videos, all while earning an unwavering loyal fanbase — which I am hereby naming “Yankheads.” Yankovic’s latest release, Mandatory Fun, sets its sights on artists ranging from Robin Thicke and Lorde to Crosby, Stills & Nash and The Pixies. Yankovic returns to The Florida Theatre on Aug. 16 on his aptly named Mandatory Fun tour.

Undoubtedly threaded through the lineage of previous comedic-melodic geniuses including Spike Jones, Homer and Jethro, Tom Lehrer, and Zappa, Yankovic is a master of lampooning the ever-shifting music scene.

And, like his aforementioned predecessors, the now-55-year-old Yankovic has created an estimable catalog that rivals, if not surpasses, the very musicians who’ve been the targets of his good-natured takedowns. And did we mention he’s a shredder accordion player?!

Folio Weekly spoke to Yankovic via phone before he headed out on the road. We talked about moving on from the world of major labels, the criteria of satirizing a song, and how looking directly at Prince is a forbidden act.

Folio Weekly: I want you to know that I modeled these questions after your Al TV interviewing technique.

“Weird Al” Yankovic: Uh, oh. [Laughs.] Now I’m worried.

I’m a little confused by some things I’ve read about the new album. The Washington Times seemed to imply that Mandatory Fun is your last record and an NPR segment seemed to rebut that. Do you think this will be your last record or last on a major label?

Well, I don’t know about the NPR thing rebutting it. I never really said I was retiring or stopping recording, I just meant that, and I didn’t mean to draw any kind of hard line in the sand and say I’m absolutely not doing any more albums, but I would say at this point that it’s very unlikely that I’ll ever again release

a conventional album. Especially because of the kind of music that I do, it doesn’t behoove me to have 12 songs and release them all at once. I think it’s better for me to be topical and timely and release things in spurts or maybe a single at a time or a couple tracks at a time.

And because I had an album deal for all these years, I was sort of beholden to the state of that format. I’m not saying that the album as a medium is dying; I think it’s probably on the wane. But for me, it doesn’t seem like the best way for me to get my stuff out there. So yeah, to answer your question, this probably is my last conventional album — but I’m still going to be putting out material.

You’re geared toward being very current. A hit song will come out and you’re right behind it with your parody. Do you feel like you have to like the song? Or is it more a matter of just mocking it?

You know, my personal feeling is that I feel that doesn’t really enter into it. Basically, I’m there to poke fun at whatever’s popular. But having said that, I tend to gravitate toward songs that I like, especially since I might be playing them onstage for the rest of my life. [Laughs.] I have to say I’m not one of these people that actively dislikes any kind of music. I think that’s more of a thing when you’re younger. You get very passionate about things that you don’t like: “Oh, I hate that music!” I just don’t have that kind of emotion. If it’s something that doesn’t appeal to me, I say, “Well, that’s not for me.”

But to answer your question, I can’t say I’ve parodied something I never liked.

Does it ever seem weird to you that your songs have long since outlived the careers and popularity of many of the very artists you’ve parodied?

In a way, it seems like you’ve come full Well, it certainly seems ironic. [Laughs.] It’s circle, starting with your earliest days on Dr. very odd, particularly considering how I Demento’s radio show. You were surely an started my career. Basically, I tried for some “indie” artist in the sense that he was playing time to get my record deal and universally your homemade tapes. Fast-forward 35 years; what I heard back was, “Oh, you’re very funny, you post these eight videos on YouTube, which this is very clever, but we’re looking for people in turn propels the new album into a No. 1 who are going to be around for a while. And hit. Are you naturally comfortable with this you doing this novelty stuff is going to be here grassroots/DIY sensibility? today and gone tomorrow. We’re looking to Well, that’s sort of the way it’s build careers.” So just the fact come to be, because the record that, now 35 years on, and I’m “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC industry has had to reinvent still hanging around and a 7:30 p.m. Aug. 16, The itself in the last 15 years or lot of people who were big in Florida Theatre, Downtown, so. The whole industry’s 1982 … [Laughs.] $35-$65, floridatheatre.com imploded and everyone’s back to the drawing board to try Yeah, Aldo Nova has sailed and figure out, “What works? How do we sell on. This is my Hollywood Babylon question, ourselves? How do we promote? How do we so bear with me. Did Prince actually send exist and still stay in business in this day and a telegram from his lawyers forbidding you age?” And what I did last year on YouTube to look at him during the American Music with the “eight videos in eight days” thing was Awards ceremony? just a promotional thing that I thought would That sounds like an urban legend but that’s absolutely true. I’m not sure if it was his work well. And it worked better than my lawyers, but it was definitely from his office, wildest expectations. Instead of having a record requesting that I not establish eye contact with company have a budget for some expensive him. And I found out after the fact that I wasn’t video, I found that working with partners who singled out. I found out later that there were need content was the best way for me to get my people seated in his vicinity who received the videos made. And it made the partners very same telegram. So there was a whole cluster happy, too. of people [Laughs.] that got “Don’t Look at Prince” telegrams.

It’s baffling to me, since you’re known so much for your videos. They’re as iconic as the actual Does this mean that a pay-per-view “Weird songs. So RCA wouldn’t fund your videos?

Al” versus Prince staring contest is completely Well, I wouldn’t say completely they wouldn’t out of the question for 2016? fund them, but after my Lady Gaga parody [Laughs.] I’m up for it! I’m on board, but you [“Perform This Way,” a sendup of her hit, “Born got to ask him.

This Way”], which was kind of an expensive video, they sent the message loud and clear that Daniel A. Brown you’re not going to do any more big-budget dbrown@folioweekly.com AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 45

BLUES POWER

A&E // MUSIC

Upcoming showcase features three of our premier SOULFUL FEMALE ACTS taking it to the source

I

of R Ray Charles: “When wee wa t wa wass at tthe he post-festival he pos ostt-ffest festiiv ivall jjam am aatt Moj M Mojo ojo jo ay C ay harl ha rles les:: “W When hen we ffeel eell bad ee bbad, ad, d, w want music makes uss fe worse.

Kitchen Blues Festival Kitc Ki tche hen n (a (aft fter er a SSpringing prin pr ingi ging ng tthe he B lues lu es F esti es tiva vall musi mu sicc that that m akes ak es u feel el w orse or se.” (I (I know kn of no better definition of this music). years ago) where an incident occurred that Guitarist/vocalist Caitlan McWilliams is set an upcoming event in motion. “I had just jammed with [the late] Michael Burks on one of the few women lead instrumentalists stage when a man approached me and said he in the community. After her former group, was from Chicago and didn’t think women Yankee Slickers, disbanded, she formed her belonged in the blues, but ‘you’re OK I guess’,” own, The Cat McWilliams Band, who make says Kim Reteguiz. As if calling the Windy their debut at the show. “Kim and I came City home somehow inoculates the ass with up with the idea for the show at dinner one opinion cred where the blues is concerned. night. We were about to go see Jason Isbell Rather than puzzle on whether to demurely at The Florida Theatre. Kim has been a huge thank this backhanded ignoramus or make support for me as far as the business aspect an obscene gesture, Reteguiz opted to plan of the band goes. She threw out the idea a night in the near future for a showcase to put together a show to sort of showcase of women blues performers. So calling on the female talent around town and provide Mama Blue and Cat McWilliams Band to host a stage for me to debut my new band. The Women Who Rock Show: The Blues, Reteguiz Women Who Rock Show will give ample (and her band, The Black Cat Bones) took the opportunity to strike out for self-sufficiency,” path of least resistance whilst garnering some McWilliams says. optimum visibility.

I should make mention of the male To even the most performers on the bill casual listener, the blues — local blues classicists Women Who Rock Show: idiom has never been the Smokestack will open The Blues: MAMA BLUE, KIM sole province of the male and close the show and RETEGUIZ & the BLACK CAT performer. Some of the provide intermittent BONES, CAT McWILLIAMS blues’ greatest have been backup throughout the BAND, SMOKESTACK women, going back to the evening. Smokestack has 8 p.m. Aug. 15, Freebird Live, Jax Beach, $10 advance; $15 day of, earliest recordings. found a permanent home freebirdlive.com Indeed, if there is a at Jaxon Social in Jax pure strain of the inward Beach, hosting the best struggles, worldly weight, and deep longing Tuesday night in town, wowing purists and that one associates with the blues experience, onlookers alike with one of the few regular it emanates from the female performers. blues jams in Northeast Florida.

Contrast this with the now-ribald image of In a scene that’s predominantly male the blues male, strutting his stuff, extolling and — let’s face it, readers — white, Reteguiz on his prowess or his lady count, all the while makes a point of venting her frustration with feeling the pain of his own foot on his prick. the audience. “I don’t know what decade “We’re not as afraid as men to take these people live in, not even accepting the chances. We don’t hold anything back; the 1968 version of Santana, or telling me that emotional content when a woman sings what I do isn’t blues,” says Reteguiz. “Hey, actually makes a feminist statement. You’re I’m Puerto Rican and was raised on Fado and gonna feel it,” says Reteguiz. it’s emotional and I-IV-V” [i.e., of the same harmonic structure of traditional blues].

Co-headliner Mama Blue explains, “They “Since we’re not as afraid as men to take called to asked me to be on with them, I said chances, I really see women as pointing to yes and the next day I was on a poster.” “For the the future of the blues.” music, well, I share my condition, I don’t know nor care if I am going to be the next Aretha or At this moment in time, however, Mama whoever, and the audience will know that I will Blue probably says it best. ”We don’t see this relate to them. I feel it’s the human condition as man vs. women, really, we’d rather debate that connects us all,” Mama Blue declares.

Janis vs. Bessie,” she believes, referencing blues goddesses Janis Joplin and Bessie Smith.

This certainly goes in on that rare release that’s found in both performer and listener Arvid Smith and given backstage eloquence words mail@folioweekly.com and gi give ven n ba back ckst stag agee el eloq oque uenc ncee in tthe he w ords or ds LADIES SING THE BLUES: Local divas Kim Reteguiz, Cat McWilliams, and Mama Blue.

46 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

Hard rock heroes NASHVILLE PUSSY (pictured) perform with VALIENT THORR and FFN, 8 p.m. Aug. 16 at Jack Rabbits in San Marco; $15 advance; $20 day of.

LIVE + LOCAL MUSIC CONCERTS THIS WEEK SPADE McQUADE 6 p.m. Aug. 12 at Fionn MacCool’s Irish Pub, Jacksonville Landing, Ste. 176, Downtown, 374-1247.

Music by the Sea: JIMMY PARRISH & the WAVES Dinner by Red Frog & McToads 6 p.m.; concert 7 p.m. Aug. 12 at St. Augustine Beach Pier & Pavilion, 350 A1A Beach Blvd., free, 347-8007, thecivicassociation.org.

DENNY BLUE 6 p.m. Aug. 12 & 19 at Paula’s Beachside Grill, 6896 A1A S., Crescent Beach, 471-3463.

UNIVERSAL SIGH, BONNIE BLUE, ERIC REAVEY 7 p.m. Aug. 12, Jack Rabbits, $8 advance; $10 day of.

NEIL DIXON 7 p.m. Aug. 12 at Ragtime Tavern, 207 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach. 241-7877.

THE BAND BE EASY 7:30 p.m. Aug. 13 at Latitude 360, 10370 Philips Hwy., Southside, 365-5555.

Ladies with Lyrics: ADDIE BROWNLEE, KATHERINE ARCHER, MEGAN WALLACE 7:30 p.m. Aug. 13 at Mudville Music Room, 3104 Atlantic Blvd., San Marco, 352-7008, $10.

TAKE COVER 7 p.m. Aug. 13, Ragtime Tavern.

An Evening of The Doors Greatest Hits: The ROBBY KRIEGER BAND 8 p.m. Aug. 13 at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., 209-0399, $39.50-$49.50.

BLACKALICIOUS, NEW BREED BRASS BAND, BILLY WINFIELD, DJ TRICLOPS 8 p.m. Aug. 13 at Freebird Live, 200 N. First St., Jax Beach, 246-2473, $20 advance; $25 day of.

HippieFest 2015: The FAMILY STONE, RICK DERRINGER, MITCH RYDER & the DETROIT WHEELS, BADFINGER & JOEY MOLLAND 8 p.m. Aug. 13 at The Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Downtown, 355-2787, $39-$69.

DARYL HANCE POWER TRIO, EUGENE SNOWDEN & FRIENDS 8 p.m. Aug. 14 at Underbelly, 113 E. Bay St., Downtown, 699-8186, $8.

KEVIN BURKE, ASTROMAPS, VACANT RESIDENT 8 p.m. Aug. 14, Jack Rabbits, $8 advance; $10 day of.

NORTHE, THE INVERTED, JENNI REID, CLIMB THE SUMMIT 8 p.m. Aug. 14, Freebird Live, $8 advance; $10 day of.

JIM LAUDERDALE & HIS BAND, CANARY in the COALMINE 8 p.m. Aug. 14, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, $35-$45.

TOOTS LORRAINE & the TRAFFIC 9 p.m. Aug. 14 at The Parlour (behind Grape & Grain), 2000 San Marco Blvd., 396-4455.

WHOLE WHEAT BREAD 10 p.m. Aug. 14 at The Roadhouse, 231 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 264-0611.

CHUCK NASH BAND 10 p.m. Aug. 14 & 15 at Flying Iguana, 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, 853-5680.

SIDEWALK 65 10 p.m. Aug. 14 & 15, Ragtime Tavern.

Riverside Arts Market: MARK WILLIAMS, SAM PACETTI, JOEY KERR, INSEL

10:30 a.m. Aug. 15 at 715 Riverside Ave., 389-2449.

DENNY BLUE 1 p.m. Aug. 15 at Milltop Tavern & Listening Room, 19 1/2 St. George St., St. Augustine, 829-2329; 8 p.m. Aug. 15 at Spy Global Cuisine & Lounge, 21 Hypolita St., St. Augustine, 819-5637.

TWANG AND ROUND 6 p.m. Aug. 15 at Mavericks at The Landing, 2 Independent Drive, Downtown, 356-1110, $7.

KILO TANGO 8 p.m. Aug. 15 at Shantytown Pub, 22 W. Sixth St., Springfield, 798-8222.

Women Who Rock … The Blues: MAMA BLUE, KIM RETEGUIZ & the BLACK CAT BONES, The CAT McWILLIAMS BAND, SMOKESTACK 8 p.m. Aug. 15, Freebird Live, $10 advance; $15 day of.

Duval Summerfest 2015: ASKMEIFICARE, LIL’ HUSTLE, MARCUS MATRIX, JANE DOE, ROB FRANCIS, COPYRYTE, LOOSE BILLS, HOLLY MONROE, G SLIM, DEZ NADO 8 p.m. Aug. 15, Jack Rabbits, $10.

CHEW, LE ORCHID 8 p.m. Aug. 15, Underbelly.

SPICE & the PO BOYS 9 p.m. Aug. 15, The Parlour.

BACK ALLEY CADILLAC 9:30 p.m. Aug. 15 at Whiskey Jax, 10915 Baymeadows Rd., Southside, 634-7208.

RUSTY SHINE 10 p.m. Aug. 15, The Roadhouse.

The MOVEMENT 4 p.m. Aug. 16 at Nippers Beach Grille, 2309 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 247-3300.

20th Annual China Cat Sunflower Festival: GLASS CAMELS, OUIJA BROTHERS 4 p.m. Aug. 14 at Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, 101 W. First St., Springfield, 356-2992.

SUBLIME WITH ROME, REBELUTION, PEPPER, MICKEY AVALON 5:30 p.m. Aug. 16 at St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A S., 209-0367, $30-$54.50.

DECOY 7 p.m. Aug. 16, Ragtime Tavern.

“WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC 7:30 p.m. Aug. 16, The Florida Theatre, $35-$65.

NASHVILLE PUSSY, VALIENT THORR, FFN 8 p.m. Aug. 16, Jack Rabbits, $15 advance; $20 day of.

COLLEEN GREEN, WET NURSE, PUNANI HUNTAH, NUT BEAST, HEAVY FLOW, MF GOON, MENTAL PATIENTS 5 p.m. Aug. 17 at Shanghai Nobby’s, 10 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 547-2188, $6.

ABACUS, SEIN ZUM TODE, BAIT 8 p.m. Aug. 17, Shantytown Pub. DEVIANT, LOCUSTS & LIARS, TRIBE, ALL WRONG 8 p.m. Aug. 17, Jack Rabbits, $8 advance; $10 at the door.

COMMUNITY CENTER, TROPIC of CANCER 8 p.m. Aug. 18, Jack Rabbits, $8 advance; $10 at the door.

Music by the Sea: AMY ALYSIA & the SOUL OPERATION Dinner from Red Salt Life Food Shack at 6 p.m.; concert 7 p.m. Aug. 19 at St. Augustine Beach Pier & Pavilion, 350 A1A Beach Blvd., free, 347-8007, thecivicassociation.org.

LA LUZ, BOYTOY, The LIFEFORMS

8 p.m. Aug. 19 at Burro Bar, 100 E. Adams St., Downtown, $8 advance; $10 at the door.

UPCOMING CONCERTS

LYLE LOVETT & HIS LARGE BAND Aug. 20, Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts TIM McGRAW, BILLY CURRINGTON, CHASE BRYANT Aug. 20, Veterans Memorial Arena ROB THOMAS, PLAIN WHITE T’s Aug. 20, St. Augustine Amphitheatre SINK TAPES, DIG DOG Aug. 20, Burro Bar BERES HAMMOND Aug. 20, The Florida Theatre DJ BABY ANNE Aug. 21, Underbelly Campout Concert: STRATOSPHERE ALL-STARS, SIR CHARLES, ZOOGMA, GREENHOUSE LOUNGE X2, DYNO HUNTER, VLAD the INHALER, MZG, S.P.O.R.E., BELLS & ROBES, MATTHEW CONNOR Aug. 21 & 22, Suwannee Music Park DEMUN JONES Aug. 21, Jack Rabbits WILL SPROTT, LIFEFORMS Aug. 21, Shanghai Nobby’s Great Southern Tailgate Classic: SISTER HAZEL, MARC BROUSSARD, DUMPSTAPHUNK, THE MOTET, YO MAMA’S BIG FAT BOOTY BAND Aug. 21-22, Main Beach Park, Fernandina CLAY WALKER Aug. 22, Mavericks at The Landing LIL DUVAL Aug. 22, The Florida Theatre WILL SPROTT Aug. 22, rain dogs FUTURE PREZIDENTS Aug. 23, Nippers Beach Grille LEISURE CRUISE Aug. 24, Jack Rabbits DONOVAN FRANKENREITER Aug. 25, Freebird Live SUNDY BEST, CHRIS WOODS, JESSE MONTOYA Aug. 27, Jack Rabbits The OUTLAWS, BLACKHAWK Aug. 28, The Florida Theatre TRIBAL SEEDS, The EXPANDERS, ARISE ROOTS Aug. 28, Mavericks at The Landing STEVE FORBERT TRIO Aug. 29, Mudville Music Room SILVERSEL Aug. 29, Jack Rabbits GRABBAG, STATUS FAUX Aug. 29, Burro Bar RICK SPRINGFIELD, LOVERBOY, The ROMANTICS Aug. 30, St. Augustine Amphitheatre FIELD GRAY, A VIBRANT LIE Aug. 30, Jack Rabbits I-RESOLUTION Aug. 30, Nippers Beach Grille THE OH WHALES Aug. 31, Jack Rabbits ALICE COOPER Sept. 1, The Florida Theatre THE NIGHTMARE POLICE Sept. 2, Jack Rabbits GYMSHORTS, MEMPHIBIANS Sept. 2, Burro Bar NORTHE, RATSMOUTH, SUNSPOTS, STRONG GUYS Sept. 4, Jack Rabbits GYM SHORTS, BEN KATZMAN DEGREASER, PARTY FLAG Sept. 4, Shanghai Nobby’s AARON NEVILLE Sept. 4, St. Johns County Fairgrounds ELONZO WESLEY, MATTEO QUIMENTO Sept. 4, Burro Bar PONCHO SANCHEZ Sept. 5, Ritz Theatre & Museum PANDA ELLIOT Sept. 5, Burro Bar GUTLESS, CONSENT, The SLAM BRIGADE Sept. 6, Shantytown Pub JAHFE Sept. 6, Nippers Beach Grille WHITMAN, NIGHT AUDITOR Sept. 8, Burro Bar HUSKY BUNDLES Sept. 8, Shantytown Pub GWAR, BUTCHER BABIES, BATTLECROSS Sept. 9, Freebird Live DOYLE BRAMHALL II Sept. 9, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall FAUX FEROCIOUS, RIVERNECKS, TEENAGE LOBOTOMY Sept.

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 47

LIVE + LOCAL MUSIC Atlanta psychprog trio CHEW (pictured) performs with LE ORCHID at Underbelly on Aug. 15, Downtown.

11, Shanghai Nobby’s LOVE AND THEFT Sept. 11, Mavericks at the Landing JOSH ABBOTT BAND Sept. 12, Mavericks at the Landing RICH HOMIE QUAN, K-CAMP, JUSTINE SKYE, DIGGY SIMMONS, T-WAYNE, ELIJAH BLAKE, JACQUEES Sept. 12, Veterans Memorial Arena JE DOUBLE F, SLEEP BEGGAR, LAKE DISNEY Sept. 12, Burro Bar ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA Sept. 13, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall JAHMEN Sept. 13, Nippers Beach Grille THEE OH SEES, GOLDEN PELICANS, WAYLON THORNTON & the HEAVY HANDS Sept. 15, St. Augustine Amphitheatre DAVID LEIBE HART, DIG DOG, The VULGARIANS Sept. 16, Underbelly ROXY ROCA Sept. 16, Jack Rabbits LUKE BRYAN, RANDY HOUSER, DUSTIN LYNCH Sept. 17, Veterans Memorial Arena RUNAWAY GIN Sept. 18, Freebird Live DE LIONS of JAH Sept. 20, Nippers Beach Grille NIHILISTINEN BARBAARISUUS Sept. 21, Shantytown Pub THAT 1 GUY Sept. 22, Jack Rabbits REO SPEEDWAGON Sept. 24, The Florida Theatre DELBERT McCLINTON & HIS BAND Sept. 25, P.V. Concert Hall HELMET Sept. 25, Jack Rabbits BRITTANY SHANE Sept. 25, Mudville Music Room CLAY WALKER Sept. 26, Mavericks at the Landing

I-VIBES Sept. 27, Nippers Beach Grille FOLIO WEEKLY’S BONNABREW Sept. 27, Riverside Arts Market NOTHING MORE, The MARMOZETS, TURBOWOLF Sept. 28, Jack Rabbits RECKLESS SERENADE Sept. 29, Jack Rabbits HOUNDMOUTH, BASIA BULAT Sept. 30, P. Vedra Concert Hall BOOKER T. JONES Oct. 3, Ritz Theatre & Museum JERROD NIEMANN Oct. 3, Mavericks at the Landing AMELIA ISLAND JAZZ FEST Oct. 8-15, Fernandina Beach TORO Y MOI Oct. 8, Freebird Live SALAD BOYS Oct. 8, rain dogs The MOUNTAIN GOATS Oct. 9, Colonial Quarter ANI DiFRANCO, ANA EGGE Oct. 9, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall RANDY WESTON’S AFRICAN RHYTHMS Oct. 10, Ritz Theatre BONZ (Stuck Mojo), A.M.M. Oct. 10, Jack Rabbits The VIBRATORS, CONCRETE ANIMALS, The WASTEDIST Oct. 11, Jack Rabbits FRED HAMMOND & DONNIE McCLURKIN Oct. 11, Veterans Memorial Arena The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with CARY ELWES Oct. 11, The Florida Theatre NEW FOUND GLORY, YELLOWCARD, TIGERS JAW Oct. 13, Mavericks The WINERY DOGS Oct. 14, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall NOAH GUNDERSON Oct. 14, Colonial Quarter

BUDDY GUY, SHEMEKIA COPELAND Oct. 14, Florida Theatre CHRIS TOMLIN, REND COLLECTIVE Oct. 16, Vets Mem. Arena BO BURNHAM Oct. 16, The Florida Theatre SUZANNE VEGA Oct. 16, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall The SENSES, The PHILTERS Oct. 16, Jack Rabbits DEF LEPPARD, FOREIGNER, NIGHT RANGER Oct. 17, Veterans Memorial Arena DEBORAH HENSON-CONANT Oct. 17, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall LITTLE BIG TOWN, DRAKE WHITE & the BIG FIRE Oct. 17, St. Augustine Amphitheatre The CHARLIE DANIELS BAND Oct. 22, The Florida Theatre JASON ALDEAN, COLE SWINDELL, TYLER FARR, DEE JAY SILVER Oct. 22, Veterans Memorial Arena Gnar Stars: FREE WEED, UNKLE FUNKLE, COLLEEN GREEN Oct. 22, Shanghai Nobby’s TAB BENOIT Oct. 22, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall MARCIA BALL, AMY SPEACE Oct. 23, P.V. Concert Hall MARK KNOPFLER Oct. 27, St. Augustine Amphitheatre KEPI GHOULI, MEAN JEANS, LIFEFORMS (AS NIRVANA) Oct. 29, rain dogs TWO COW GARAGE, The MUTTS Oct. 29, Jack Rabbits STRING CHEESE INCIDENT, PRETTY LIGHTS, PRIMUS, CHANCE the RAPPER Oct. 30-Nov. 1, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park LEE BAINES III & the GLORY FIRES, PUJOL, ELECTRIC WATER Oct. 31, Burro Bar BOZ SCAGGS Nov. 4, Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts LEFTOVER SALMON Nov. 5, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall PRONG, APPALACHIAN DEATH TRAP Nov. 6, Jack Rabbits ALL HANDS on DECK Nov. 8, The Florida Theatre REVEREND PEYTON’S BIG DAMN BAND, BRYCE ALASTAIR BAND Nov. 8, Jack Rabbits ADRIAN LEGG, DAVID LINDLEY Nov. 12, P. Vedra Concert Hall CHASE BRYANT Nov. 12, Mavericks at the Landing BLENDED BREW Nov. 12, Jack Rabbits AMERICA Nov. 13, Thrasher-Horne Center JAKE SHIMABUKURO Nov. 13, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall GABRIEL IGLESIAS Nov. 13, The Florida Theatre STRAIGHT NO CHASER Nov. 17, The Florida Theatre The DIRTY DOZEN BRASS BAND, NEW BREED BRASS BAND Nov. 21, Ritz Theatre & Museum This is Not a Test Tour: TOBYMAC, BRITT NICOLE, COLTON DIXON, HOLLYN Nov. 22, Veterans Memorial Arena RONNIE MILSAP Nov. 29, The Florida Theatre CRAIG FERGUSON Nov. 30, The Florida Theatre DAVE KOZ CHRISTMAS TOUR Dec. 1, The Florida Theatre LUCERO Dec. 3, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall NICHOLAS PAYTON Dec. 5, Ritz Theatre & Museum KANSAS Dec. 6, The Florida Theatre LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III Dec. 11, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall BRIAN REGAN Dec. 13, The Florida Theatre MATISYAHU Dec. 18 & 19, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall The TEN TENORS Dec. 22, The Florida Theatre JOHN SEBASTIAN Jan. 8, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall CHRISTIAN McBRIDE Jan. 16, Ritz Theatre & Museum The TEMPTATIONS, The FOUR TOPS Jan. 21, Florida Theatre SHAWN COLVIN Jan. 29, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall JOHNNY MATHIS Jan. 31, The Florida Theatre COLIN HAY Jan. 31, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall YANNI Feb. 3, T-U Center for the Performing Arts ALAN PARSONS PROJECT GREATEST HITS TOUR with JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Feb. 10, Florida Theatre PATTY GRIFFIN, SARA WATKINS, ANAIS MITCHELL Feb. 13, The Florida Theatre The JAMES HUNTER SIX Feb. 13, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall SUN RA ARKESTRA Feb. 20, Ritz Theatre & Museum GARY CLARK JR. Feb. 21, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall BLACK VIOLIN March 3, Ritz Theatre & Museum ROGER McGUINN March 4, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall JANET JACKSON March 8, Veterans Memorial Arena FRANK SINATRA JR. March 9, The Florida Theatre The JOHNNY CLEGG BAND March 18, P. Vedra Concert Hall CECILE McLORIN SALVANT March 31, Ritz Theatre NAJEE April 9, Ritz Theatre & Museum LET IT BE: A Celebration of the Music of The Beatles April 10, The Florida Theatre

LIVE MUSIC CLUBS

AMELIA ISLAND, FERNANDINA BEACH

GREEN TURTLE TAVERN, 14 S. Third St., 321-2324 Buck Smith Thur. Yancy Clegg Sun. Vinyl Record Nite every Tue.

AVONDALE, ORTEGA

CASBAH CAFÉ, 3628 St. Johns Ave., 981-9966 Goliath Flores 9 p.m. every Wed. Live jazz every Sun. Live music every Mon. ECLIPSE, 4219 St. Johns Ave. KJ Free 9 p.m. Tue. & Thur.

Indie dance 9 p.m. Wed. ’80s & ’90s dance at 9 p.m. every Fri.

THE BEACHES

(All venues in Jax Beach unless otherwise noted)

BILLY’S BOATHOUSE, 2321 Beach Blvd., 241-9771 Billy Bowers Aug. 13 & 16. Bad Habits Aug. 14. Beau & the Burnouts Aug. 15 ESPETO, 1396 Beach Blvd., 388-4884 Steve & Carlos Aug. 13 FLYING IGUANA, 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Bch, 853-5680 Chuck Nash Band 10 p.m. Aug. 14 & 15. Darren Corlew Aug. 16 FREEBIRD LIVE, 200 N. First St., 246-2473 Blackalicious, New Breed Brass Band, Billy Winfield, DJ Triclops Aug. 13. Northe, The Inverted, Jenni Reid, Climb the Summit Aug. 14. Women Who Rock Show: Mama Blue, Kim Reteguiz & the Black Cat Bones, The Cat McWilliams Band, Smokestack Aug. 15 HARMONIOUS MONKS, 320 First St. N., 372-0815 Scott Verville Aug. 12. Live music 9 p.m. Fri. & Sat. Dan Evans, Spade

48 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

LIVE + LOCAL MUSIC McQuade 6 p.m. Sun. Back From the Brink 9 p.m. every Mon. LYNCH’S, 514 N. First St., 249-5181 Austin Park Aug. 14 & 15 MELLOW MUSHROOM, 1018 Third St. N., 241-5600 Blue Muse Aug. 12. Brady Clampitt Aug. 13. Jammin Salmons Aug. 15 MEZZA Restaurant & Bar, 110 First St., N.B., 249-5573 Neil Dixon every Tue. Gypsies Ginger every Wed. Mike Shackelford & Steve Shanholtzer every Thur.

NIPPERS BEACH GRILLE, 2309 Beach Blvd., 247-3300 Pili Pili Aug. 13. The Movement Aug. 16 NORTH BEACH BISTRO, 725 Atlantic Blvd., A.B., 372-4105 Backtrack 51 Aug. 14. Kristen Lee Aug. 15. Billy Bowers Aug. 16 RAGTIME TAVERN, 207 Atlantic Blvd., A.B., 241-7877 Neil Dixon Aug. 12. Take Cover Aug. 13. Sidewalk 65 Aug. 14 & 15.

Decoy Aug. 16. Live music Thur.-Sun. WIPEOUTS GRILL, 1589 Atlantic Blvd., N.B., 247-4508 Bill Rice 7 p.m. Aug. 13. Amy Vickery 9:30 p.m. Aug. 14 WORLD OF BEER, 311 N. Third St., 372-9698 Jamie Salvatore Aug. 13. Matthew Still Trio Aug. 14. Who Rescued Who Aug. 15 ZETA BREWING, 131 First Ave. N., 372-0727 The Firewater Tent Revival 10 p.m. Aug. 14

DOWNTOWN

1904 MUSIC HALL, 19 Ocean St. N. The Rocky Horror Show Aug. 14 & 15, 21 & 22 BURRO BAR, 100 E. Adams St. Kult Ov Azazel, Secrets She Kept, Neverbaptized, Saturnine, The Noctambulant Aug. 13.

Bishop Aug. 16 DOS GATOS, 123 E. Forsyth St., 354-0666 BlackJack every Wed. DJ Brandon every Thur. DJs spin dance music every Fri. DJ NickFresh Sat. DJ Randall 9 p.m. Mon. DJ Hollywood Tue. FIONN MacCOOL’S, Jax Landing, Ste. 176, 374-1247 Spade McQuade 6 p.m. Aug. 12. Box Band 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Aug. 14.

Ace Winn 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Aug. 15. The Daygos 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

Aug. 17. Spade McQuade 6-9 p.m. Aug. 19 JACKSONVILLE LANDING, 2 Independent Dr., 353-1188 IveyWest Band 6 p.m. Aug. 13. 418 Band Aug. 14. Latina Hot Summer Fiesta 4 p.m.-mid. Aug. 15. 418 Band 4-9 p.m. Aug. 16 MARK’S DOWNTOWN, 315 E. Bay, 355-5099 DJ Roy Luis Wed. DJ Vinn every Thur. DJ Dr. Doom 10 p.m. every Fri. DJ Shotgun 10 p.m. every Sat. MAVERICKS, Jax Landing, 356-1110 Twang and Round 6 p.m. Aug. 15. Joe Buck, DJ Justin Thur.-Sat. UNDERBELLY, 113 E. Bay St., 699-8186 Back Track Aug. 12.

Daryl Hance Power Trio, Eugene Snowden 8 p.m. Aug. 14.

Chew, Le Orchid Aug. 15

FLIGHT PLAN

A SHORT LIST OF THINGS I HAVE GROWN TO despise about music in the past, oh, say, 10 years: banjos, ukuleles, big beards, fiddles, mandolins, washboards, V-necks, and vests. It’s a shame, really, because, other than my overall sartorial disdain of the new(ish) Americana movement, that list contains some really fantastic instruments that have been overused, bastardized and abused by some of the most boring bands in music history. Chief among them, Mumford & Sons, the single most snooze-inducing group of hipsters this old, slowly rotting music critic has ever encountered. (Hyperbole intended.)

And don’t let their new shit fool you. It’s just as lame as their old-timey banjo-jangling, just with ambient synths and U2ey guitar swells, an obvious attempt at “staying relevant.” You know, kind of like when Kings of Leon started sucking after their really great (and very raw) first album.

Why am I wasting space complaining about M&S? Well, it’s fun. And it makes a great segue to a review of a Jacksonville band that’s employing banjo-driven Americana as a foundation for their tunes. Oh, and it’s fun!

I must confess that whenever a member of a local group contacts me about reviewing their new CD, I cringe. I know what I’m in for: Between four and 14 songs by musicians trying desperately to capitalize on whatever is breaking the Top 10 that week in the hope that they, too, will be the next next big thing.

It’s rare that I’m surprised, but it does happen.

Emphasis on rare.

When I received Pilotwave’s release Down the Dial, I was immediately discouraged. The cover is a near rip-off of Climax Blues Band’s Live/FM album, a close-up of a ’70s-era stereo with the selector switch set for AM rather than FM. Derivative? Maybe, if the band is old enough

FLEMING ISLAND

WHITEY’S FISH CAMP, 2032 C.R. 220, 269-4198 Live music every Fri. & Sat. DJ Throwback 8 p.m. every Thur. Deck music every Fri., Sat. & Sun.

INTRACOASTAL WEST

CLIFF’S BAR & GRILL, 3033 Monument Rd., 645-5162 Bandontherun Aug. 12. Bill Ricci, Big Engine Aug. 14 JERRY’S SPORTS GRILLE, 13170 Atlantic Blvd., 220-6766 Don’t Call Me Shirley Aug. 14. Rick Arcusa 8:30 p.m. Aug. 15

MANDARIN, JULINGTON

DAVE’S MUSIC BAR & GRILL, 9965 San Jose, 575-4935 Board Bros., Blues Jam Aug. 14. Joe G, Krackers Aug. 15 HARMONIOUS MONKS, 10550 Old St. Augustine, 880-3040 Open jam Blues Monday 7 p.m. every Mon. SAUCY TACO, 450 S.R. 13, 287-8226 Stu Weaver Aug. 14

ORANGE PARK, MIDDLEBURG

CLUB RETRO, 1241 Blanding Blvd., 579-4731 ’70s & ’80s dance 8 p.m. every Fri. & Sat. DJ Capone every Wed. THE HILLTOP, 2030 Wells Rd., 272-5959 John Michael Tue.-Sat. PREVATT’S SPORTS BAR, 2620 Blanding Blvd., 282-1564 Natural Instincts, Ben Carter Band Aug. 15. Live music every Sat. DJ Tammy 9 p.m. every Wed. THE ROADHOUSE, 231 Blanding Blvd., 264-0611 Whole Wheat Bread 10 p.m. Aug. 14. Rusty Shine 10 p.m. Aug. 15.

Live music 10 p.m. Wed. DJ Big Mike 10 p.m. Thur.

PONTE VEDRA

PUSSER’S Grill, 816 A1A, 280-7766 Live music weekends TABLE 1, 330 A1A, 280-5515 Paxton & Mike Aug. 12 & 15.

Gary Starling Aug. 13. Way Back Wednesday Aug. 14

RIVERSIDE, WESTSIDE

ACROSS THE STREET, 948 Edgewood Ave. S., 683-4182 Emma Moseley Band 10 p.m. Aug. 15 MURRAY HILL Theatre, 932 Edgewood S., 388-7807 Andy Mineo, Brinson, Kidd Swift, Ethan Parker, DJ Will, Five Iron Frenzy, John Mark McMillan, Bleach, House of Heroes, Buffalo Buffalo, Blank Canvas, Bellarive, Ascend the Hill, My Epic Aug. 14-16 RAIN DOGS, 1045 Park St., 379-4969 Minor Influence, PowerBall Aug. 16. Live music most weekends RIVERSIDE ARTS MARKET, 715 Riverside Ave., 389-2449 Mark Williams, Sam Pacetti, Joey Kerr, Insel 10:30 a.m. Aug. 15

to have experienced an obscure live album by a relatively obscure band.

So that’s forgivable.

But then I put the CD in and, good-freakinggod, the banjo starts right up in that hokie foot-stomping way that’s become so popular since the Appalachian hillbillies introduced it so many years ago. It was close, I tells ya. I very nearly took the disc out and sent it sailing across the backyard. Then something wonderful happened.

Imagine The Beatles joining The Turtles for a bluegrass jam. Or The Monkees and The Mamas & The Papas doing a tent revival prime-time special. That’s Pilotwave, sort of.

And it’s really fantastic. Album-opener “Break the Ties” blurs the line between newgrass and real rock-and-roll. Distorted slide guitar blends with picked banjo and acoustic guitar in a strangely satisfying way. Rock arrangements clash with down-home bluesy folk. And the harmonies are full-on ’60s pop. I (with a little shame) love it.

Track 2, “Arm in Arm” could be a companion piece to Simon & Garfunkel’s “Kodachrome” with a little more bounce. Then the title track gets a little punky pop (not pop-punk; there is a difference) while “Telephones & Record Players” goes very pop retro, all twangy guitars, strange psychedelic breaks and handclaps. Yeah, Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman would have had a good time with that one.

“Grow Old With Me” comes close to the sucky bluegrass of Mumford & Sons, but the odd time changes and unexpected rhythm shifts turn

ST. AUGUSTINE

THE CELLAR UPSTAIRS, 157 King St., 826-1594 Ralph E & the Jammers Aug. 14. Buffalo Rose Aug. 15. Vinny Jacobs Aug. 16 MILL TOP TAVERN, 19 St. George St., 829-2329 Second Hand 9 p.m. Aug. 14 & 15. Denny Blue 1 p.m. Aug. 15 PAULA’S BEACHSIDE GRILL, 6896 A1A S., Crescent Beach, 471-3463 Denny Blue open mic jam 6-9 p.m. Aug. 12 & 19 SHANGHAI NOBBY’S, 10 Anastasia Blvd., 547-2188 Colleen Green, Wet Nurse, Punani Huntah, Nut Beast, MF Goon, Mental Patients 5 p.m. Aug. 17 TRADEWINDS LOUNGE, 124 Charlotte St., 829-9336 Those Guys Aug. 14 & 15. Live music 9 p.m. every Fri. & Sat.

SAN MARCO, SOUTHBANK

JACK RABBITS, 1528 Hendricks Ave., 398-7496 Universal Sigh, Bonnie Blue, Eric Reavey 7 p.m. Aug. 12. Kevin Burke, Astromaps, Vacant Resident Aug. 14. Duval Summerfest 2015: Askmeificare, Lil’ Hustle, Marcus Matrix, Jane Doe, Rob Francis, Copyryte, Loose Bills, Holly Monroe, G Slim, Dez Nado Aug. 15. Nashville Pussy, Valient Thorr, FFN Aug. 16.

Community Center, Tropic of Cancer Aug. 18 MUDVILLE MUSIC ROOM, 3104 Atlantic Blvd., 352-7008 Addie Brownlee, Katherine Archer, Megan Wallace 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 13. Richard Gielwitz Aug. 21 THE PARLOUR, 2000 San Marco Blvd., 396-4455 Toots Lorraine & the Traffic 9 p.m. Aug. 14. Spice & the Po Boys Aug. 15

SOUTHSIDE, BAYMEADOWS, ARLINGTON

LATITUDE 360, 10370 Philips Hwy., 365-5555 DJ Trdmrk, Rusted Diamond Aug. 12. Be Easy, DJ Fellin Aug. 13. Fiona Corinne, Blonde Ambition Aug. 14. Jesse Cruce, Blonde Ambition Aug. 15. Boogie Freaks Aug. 16 MELLOW MUSHROOM, 1800 Town Ctr. Blvd., 541-1999 Charlie Walker Aug. 13. Robbie Lit Aug. 14. Kurt Lanham Aug. 15 WHISKEY JAX, 10915 Baymeadows, 634-7208 Back Alley Cadillac 9:30 p.m. Aug. 15. Melissa Smith open mic Thur. Mojo Roux Blues every Sun. Kassyli country jam every Mon. WORLD OF BEER, 9700 Deer Lake Ct., Ste. 1, 551-5929 Stella Rising Aug. 15. Live music every Fri. & Sat.

SPRINGFIELD, NORTHSIDE

SHANTYTOWN, 22 W. Sixth St., 798-8222 The Funk as Puck Tour Aug. 12. Cave of Swimmers Aug. 14. Kilo Tango Aug. 15.

Dig Dog Aug. 16. Abacus, Sein Zum Tode, Bait 8 p.m. Aug. 17 THREE LAYERS CAFE, 1602 Walnut St., 355-9791 RadioLove Aug. 14

THE KNIFE

THE KNIFE

the genre on its head, or at least tottering on its elbow. The barber-shoppy backgrounds are precise and well-put-together. “Busy Busy Bees” features a sitar — and more odd time signatures.

And it’s sloppy and loose. A really great track.

I could continue song by song, I could mention the guys by name, I could talk about the production, but what’s the point? Buy the album and support the band. Your copy won’t be as cool as mine, though. Drummer Josh Salestrom’s daughter used mine as a teether, and I think the teeth marks make it a limited edition of some sort. Probably worth a bunch of money. Sweet!

Regardless of my newly acquired wealth care of a munching toddler, Pilotwave is damn good.

Good enough, anyway, to shake me outta my deep hatred for modern Americana, at least for the moment. And I want to revel in that, however momentary it might be.

John E. Citrone theknife@folioweekly.com Down the Dial is available through Amazon, iTunes, and pilotwave.net. They are also in rotation at Pandora.

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 49

50 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY

MICHELANGELO, FINNISH FOOD, CARL JUNG & THE FIRST TIME ARIES (March 21-April 19): To ensure this horoscope’s full accuracy, I resurrected an old-fashioned English word not used much any more: “gambol.” It means to cavort and frolic in a playful manner, or romp and skip around with mad glee, as if you can’t stop yourself from dancing. Astrological omens seem unambiguous in their message: To cultivate a state of mind to enable you to meet dates with destiny in the weeks ahead, gambol at least once a day.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Do you remember your first kiss? How about the first time you had sex? Those events may not have been perfectly smooth and graceful, they were radical breakthroughs that changed your life and altered your consciousness. Since then, there may have been other intimate rites of passage that affected you with similar intensity. No doubt you’ll experience more in the future. The next installments are due in the months ahead. Get ready.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Two-thirds of us don’t know our strengths and talents.

That’s the conclusion of a study in The Journal of Positive Psychology. One reason for this is what the report’s co-author Dr. Robert BiswasDiener calls “strengths blindness,” in which we neglect our real powers because we see them as ordinary or take them for granted. The good news?

If you suffer even partial ignorance about the nature of your potentials, the months ahead are a good time to remedy that. Life will conspire to help you see the truth. (Read more: bit.ly/truestrengths.)

CANCER (June 21-July 22): In 1504, Michelangelo finished his sculpture of Biblical hero David. He wasn’t the first to work on the 17-foot-high block of marble – 40 years before, artist Agostino di Duccio was commissioned to carve David from the stone. His work was minimal – he did little more than create a rough shape of the legs and torso. In 1476, Antonio Rossellino resumed where Agostino stopped, but he didn’t last, either.

By the time Michelangelo began, the massive slab had sat for 25 years. I see parallels between this story and yours. You’ll be asked to take on a project that’s been on hold or delayed. It may require you to complete labors begun by others, or started by you in a different frame of mind.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Many people harbor the unconscious bias that beauty resides primarily in things that are polished, sleek, and perfect. Celebrities work hard and spend a lot of money to cultivate their immaculate attractiveness, and are often treated as if they have the most pleasing appearance human can have. Art displayed in museums has equally flawless packaging. But current astrological omens suggest it’s important to appreciate a different kind of beauty: crooked, wobbly, eccentric stuff. For the foreseeable future, that’s where you find inspiration.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “No tree can grow to Heaven unless its roots reach down to Hell,” wrote psychologist Carl Jung in Aion. My interpretation: We earn the right to experience profound love and brilliant light by becoming familiar with shadows and suffering. It may not be possible to ripen into our most radiant beauty without having tangled with life’s ugliness.

As I understand of your long-term cycle, you’ve completed an extended phase of downward growth. In the next one, though, upward growth predominates. You did fairly well on the hellish stuff; now come more heavenly rewards.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The Great Balancing Act of 2015 doesn’t demand you be a wishy-washy, eager-to-please, harmony whore. Purge such ideas from your mind.

What does it ask? For you to express what you stand for with clarity, to free yourself, as much as you can, from worrying about what people think of you. It wants you to be shaped less by others’ expectations and more by what you want. Do you know what you want? Find out! Your task: Don’t work on the surface, manipulating the appearance of things – focus efforts in your depths.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Muslims, Jews, and Christians are collaborating to erect a joint house of worship in Berlin. The building, to be finished by 2018, will have separate areas for each religion as well as a common space for members of all three to gather. Even if you don’t belong to any faith, you may be inspired by this pioneering effort to foster mutual tolerance. Take it as a vivid symbol of unity. May it help inspire you to take full advantage of current chances to heal schisms, build consensus, and cultivate harmony.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In some phases of your life, you’ve been a wanderer with a fuzzy sense of where you belong.

It’s been a challenge to know at which target to aim arrows. You may have been forceful but not as productive as you’d like; energetic but too inefficient to accomplish wonders and marvels. One wandering season is ending. In the months ahead, you have a growing clarity of where your future power spot is and may even find the sanctuary of “home.”

Spend a few hours telling yourself your origin story.

Remember your life’s major events as if it’s a movie.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You’ve been slowing to a crawl as you approach an exciting transition. Resume normal speed.

No need for excessive caution. You paid your dues; you made meticulous arrangements; you performed quiet heroisms. Time to relax with the rewards you have earned. Lighten your mood. Welcome the onrushing peace and start planning how you will capitalize on your new freedom.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “Most people reach the top of the ladder of success only to find it’s leaning against the wrong wall,” said Aquarian actor Paul Sorensen. It’s no coincidence I bring this theory to your attention.

The months ahead are a good time to determine if the ladder you’ve been climbing is leaning against the right wall or wrong wall. My advice? Question yourself. Be as objective as possible. Swear to tell yourself the whole truth. If, after investigating, you decide it’s the wrong wall, climb down and take the ladder to the right wall. If you’re satisfied you’re where you should be, celebrate!

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): When he served as Italian Prime Minister, Silvio Berlusconi denigrated the cuisine of Finland. “Finns don’t even know what prosciutto is,” he sneered. At best, he said, their food is to be “endured.” He mocked the “marinated reindeer” they eat. But Finland fought back against the insults. In an international pizza contest held in New York, their chefs won First Prize for their “Pizza Berlusconi,” a specialty pizza that featured marinated reindeer. The Italian entry finished second. I see you in a comparable reversal in the next few months – it begins now.

Rob Brezsny freewillastrology@freewillastrology.com

HELLO, YOUNG LOVERS (aka ISU writers)!

The limit here is 40 words ONLY. No messages over 40 words will be accepted. Please make it short & sweet. (That’s what she said.) Thanks!

And remember: No names, addresses, phone numbers or email addresses will ever be used or shared – unless you want to connect! @ KELSEA BALLERINI CONCERT You: Petite, doe-eyed, STUNNING honey blonde. 5’3”, fashionably dressed. Me: Mature, 5’7”, bronze/beige Tommy Bahama shirt. Eyes locked nearly entire concert, four feet away. Pretty red truck, begs you slide in. Forever love songs to write. When: July 11. Where: Jax Beach. #1544-0812

DOING IT YOURSELF Saw you at the sweat fest at Shantytown Wednesday performing/dirty rapping. You have an amazing presence.

You: Green hair, Tecate, denim. Me: Red T-shirt, High Life, glasses. You mentioned you’d never seen yourself in the ISawUs. When: July 1. Where: Shantytown. #1533-0708

BLONDE AT GARAGE You: Bleached blonde hair, served my friends and me at Garage. Me: Cute brunette, too drunk to ask for your number. Flirted all night; I can’t stop thinking about your smile. Hope I see it again soon. ;). When: July 22. Where: The Garage, Riverside. #1543-0812

JOE ADAMS BLDG. ELEVATOR TOGETHER You: Totally beautiful, sweet girl. Awesome business dress, nametag. Me: Handsome, dark hair, 5’11”. You about my day. I was late for doctor appt.; got off 2nd fl oor. You went up. Love to meet you. When: June 17, 3:45 p.m. Where: Joe Adams Bldg. #1532-0708

FIRE AND ICE You: Smokin’ redhead, Moet Ice white shirt. Me: Sweaty, self-loather yearning for another obligatory laugh. Sweat disguises tears of desire. Your comforting movement made my soul blossom, erasing fears. Let’s be Adam and Eve in your enchanted garden. When: Aug. 3. Where: Riverside Liquors. #1542-0812

LONG-HAIRED BEAUTIFUL BREW BARISTA You: Coffeemaster behind bar. Me: Shy, brown-haired guy on laptop. ISU pulling shots, serving beer, grinding coffee with a beautiful smile on your face. Hoping we can do some grinding of our own soon. When: June 25. Where: BREW 5 Points. #1531-0701

TALL THIN HUNK, CREWCUT, BLACK CAMARO ISU at gas pump beside me. You smiled, winked; wearing blue maintenance shirt, Baptist Health logo. Me: Tall strong biker stud filling up the Harley. Contact if you want to be my submissive! When: July 23. Where: Kangaroo near Knight Boxx. #1541-0805 WEDNESDAYS, KONA, RAIN/OR NOT You: Can I talk to you? Me: Why? You: Because I like what I see! Me: I’m working … 9-1/2 years later, love you more than ever. Through it all, you had me at Kona (HELLO). When: 2006. Where: Every day. #1540-0805 SALT & PEPPER ELECTRICIAN ISU in the hall; you’re very cute. Our eyes met; you smiled at me. Wanna grab something to eat? You looked very hungry as you passed the cafe. Me: Handsome AA male. When: July 20. Where: Baptist Downtown. #1539-0729 MAN BUN AT SIDECAR You: Good-looking guy with man bun outside with friends.

Me: Curly brown hair, shorts, tank top, at a table by the door.

Did you catch me staring? Love to get to know you. Drinks soon? When: July 17. Where: Sidecar. #1538-0729

BREAKFAST MAN I’ve seen you: Big, strong-looking guy, glasses, low cut, walking with co-workers to Scotties downtown and Skyway.

Me: 6’5” blonde-haired guy diggin’ you. Let’s buy lotto tickets together. Winner chicken dinner! When: June 15.

Where: Downtown Jax. #1530-0624 K____ , NAS PHARMACY Blond hair in bun, glasses, white suit, turquoise top. We talked in line, parking lot. You: Had very bad day; drive black Sorrento. Want to make sure you’re OK. Me: Gym gear, red pickup truck. When: June 15. Where: NAS Pharmacy. #1529-0624 FUN IN THE SUN You: Getting out of pool; put on loud orange shirt. Flag tattoo. Started reading Harlan Coben novel. Me: Tan in black two-piece trying to get your attention. Hope to see you again. Let’s skinny dip? When: June 6. Where: Green Tree Place. #1528-0617 DRIVE BY I saw Clark Kent in the parking lot. Me: Driving by. You: Walking to your car; you’re really super-looking. I bet you get that a lot, though. When: June 5. Where: Bailey’s Gym. #1527-0617

SHORTER MAINTENANCE MAN You: Shorter electrician working second shift. Me: Tall, handsome black male. ISU in the new cafe; there was a lot of meat on that sandwich you were eating. We should “meat” up in the near future. When: July 15. Where: Baptist Downtown. #1537-0722

BREATHLESS AT BIG LOTS You: Beautiful, short hair, coral outfit, buying plastic bins, in Mini-Cooper. Me: Tall guy, striped polo, khakis. Let you ahead; bought pens to write number for you; you left soon.

Needed coral party item, never expected perfect coral. When: 2 p.m. June 4. Where: Merrill Road Big Lots. #1525-0610

GORGEOUS SENIOR AIR FORCE WOMAN You: Camouflage, boots, belt, Walgreens line, small brown bun. Me: Guy 10 years older, white T-shirt, khakis. Traded smiles. Something here? Friends? See you again, maybe civvies, hair down? Buy a beer, Park & King. When: July 14.

Where: Walgreens Park & King. #1536-0722

STUNNING FRECKLED REDHEAD; BE MY MODEL? My jaw dropped! Your stunning looks, beautiful skin are amazing! Didn’t have business card with me; would you consider modeling for a photo shoot? Your schedule, preference. Let me build your portfolio! When: May 11.

Where: Town Center Publix. #1525-0610

PINEAPPLE UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE Beautiful red dress showin’ flawless legs. I bartended for you, your company. Let’s go to a real bar; or I’ll be your private bartender ;). Tell me where I work or what you remember so I know it’s you. When: July 5. Where: Southside. #1535-0722

TAG YOU’RE IT Me: Brunette, maroon Jeep. You: Smokin’ hottie in the white Nissan truck. Playing cat and mouse over the Intracoastal.

Catch me if you can ;). When: May 30. Where: Beach Boulevard Bridge. #1524-0603

ARLINGTON PUBLIX: BIG BROTHER You: Purple shorts, longer brown hair, white T-shirt, walking around with little brother. When: July 1. Where: Arlington River Publix. #1534-0708

SEXY BLONDE, BOSTON CONCERT You: Very sexy, Sect. 101, Row I, with cute friend, “dates.” We took selfies together; chemistry unmistakable. Me: Sect. 101, Row K; mature gent; a lot more fun than your date. Sealed with a kiss. When: May 24. Where: St. Augustine Amphitheatre. #1523-0603

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 51

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AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 53

NEWS OF THE WEIRD

Overset for the web FOLIO WEEKLY PUZZLER by MERL REAGLE. Presented by

I’M AT THE CORNER OF BAD & LUCK Ran’dell Busch, 27, was in serious condition after being shot on July 26 near the corner of 18th Street and Emmet Street in Omaha, Nebraska. He was shot in 2014 near the intersection of 18th and Emmet, and in 2012 was shot in a scuffle after running from the corner of 18th and Emmet.

HEADY A guest at upscale PONTE VEDRA W HotelSOUTHSIDE SANWORKOUT MARCO AVONDALE THE SHOPPES OF PONTE VEDRA AVENUES MALL 2044 SANLauderdale MARCO BLVD.had in Fort to be rescued by 3617 ST. JOHNS AVE. A1A NORTH 10300 SOUTHSIDE BLVD. 398-9741 388-5406 firefighters in July when330 he fell off a machine 280-1202 394-1390 in the hotel’s exercise room and got his head caught ACROSS in the one next to The it. Rescuers brought Latest Ice Cream Flavors 70 2009 Survivor setting 71 Charlatan torches 1 Vanillaand ___ saws, but managed to pull, push 73 Unlikely ’69 champs Oceanographer’s and manipulate head free; he hadfavorite 14 Some palms 8 “___ Irish Rose”the man’s87 ice cream flavor?

74 Remove, as bananas 15 Scoreless tie 13 Chinese menu General “signifi cant” injuries.

91 Voice of Mr. Burns 16 Nintendo console 93 Flat floater 19 Wyoming college town LOOK, MA, I’M IN A MOVIE!94Jason Stange, 44,Rudd With -Man, a Paul 20 Pop or Cream add-on who became a fugitive last year by walking away superhero 21 Fedora feature 95 ___ et Orbi (papal from a Spokane, Washington, halfway house 23 President’s favorite ice cream while onflavor? probation for bankaddress) robbery, was re97 Data-mining org.

25 Men’s Chanel arrested in Julyfragrance in Olympia, Washington, aft er 98 Like Sixth 26 Skip overhimself water, asin an extensiveBeethoven’s featuring newspaper 99 Car restorer’s favorite stones pictorial about a local movieice hecream was starring flavor? in.

27 Copier LGL alternative Dover soul Stange could have chosen106 a more veiled stage 28 Valedictorian’s favorite 108 Pt. ofmovie SEC billed name, but since ice cream flavor?it was a horror Astros, — on scoreboards 30 Bring forth himself merely as “Jason 109 Strange” making 110 Iron starter 33 A car, noteasier a city for U.S. Marshals. detection 111 Professor’s favorite ice 35 Draws a foul, e.g.

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119 Southern seafood fave, 43 “Quit ___ whinin’!” ___ soup 44 A city, and a car 120 Actress Aniston’s favorite 45 First name in conga ice cream flavor that music comes with its own 46 Pluralized y spoon...erism?

48 Slammin’ Sammy 124 Go barhopping 49 Son-of-a-gun 125 Sheepish?

53 Struggling farmer’s favorite ice cream flavor? 126 Stephen, in St. Lô 127 Shut-___ 56 The wizard of Oz? 128 ___ school 57 It might be candied 129 Dustin in Midnight 58 Lab assistants?

Cowboy 59 Day-___ colors 130 Wood grooves, not 60 Room under a roof animals 62 Leading 64 Marilyn’s Misfits co-star DOWN 65 Anagram of 64 Across 1 Outwits (a posse) 66 MapQuest owner 2 Kane’s estate 69 Reporter’s favorite ice 3 Cause to stumble cream flavor?

4 Farm butter?

72 Animator’s favorite ice 5 Band aid cream flavor?

6 Sky, in Versailles 75 Tarzan tender 7 Milan’s ___ alla Scala 76 Slangy negative 8 Fire proof 77 Aegean island 9 Subjectivity subject 79 Popular middle name 10 Long-range nuke 80 The ___ Gay 11 2004 film, __ Enchanted 81 Marksmen take it 12 Become furious 82 Orch. member 13 Skulking dance in famed 84 R. Osborne network SNL video (Andy Samberg 86 Street ___ and John Waters)

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97 101 102

103 104 105

109

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54 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | AUGUST 12-18, 2015

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78 Fab Four name 81 Comport oneself 82 Panama and Suez, e.g.

83 July birthstone 85 Road to recovery 87 Tot spot 88 Irish surname (that repeats itself?)

89 Company VIPs 90 Tangled, as hair 92 “Dream on,” in Clueless 96 I, to Einstein 100 Key with four sharps 101 Egglike 102 Cell assignment 103 California city with Anteaters college players 104 Familiarize 105 Creaks and squeaks 107 Snack in a shell 108 Put a stop to 112 Rhythm keeper 113 St. Petersburg’s river 114 Blood amount 115 Catches some rays 117 It’s agin fur 119 Nova subj.

121 Intro to con 122 Tease 123 Antietam fighter

Solution to First Name Basis (8/5/15) D E I T F A S T

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39 Soul mate?

40 Formal introduction?

41 Grammar topic 42 Tom’s ex 47 “Like a Rock” singer Bob 48 Bygone snack cakes, ___ Balls 49 Stopped lying?

50 Noticeable navel 51 Louis Armstrong nickname 52 Typee shelfmate 54 “Stop ___ shoot!”

55 Biography subtitle 56 Cabo locale 61 Misanthrope 63 Show the way 65 Little bloodsucker 66 Be gaga over 67 Staring sort 68 X-ray vision blocker

121

118 122 123

VACATION MIRAGE Grande Hotel San Calogero, planned centerpiece of a Sicilian tourist renaissance, is nowhere close to opening — 61 years after construction began. It took 30 years to build; developers fought for 10 years over management; later a serious drainage deficiency was discovered (repair of which Rome’s news site The Local reported in July is unfunded).

BEST DIET EVER Overlooked by the roundup of “state fair” foods listed in NOTW two weeks ago was the debut in June, at California’s San Diego County Fair, of deep-fried Slim-Fast bars. A 200-calorie “diet bar” is breaded in pancake batter, fried, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with chocolate.

HEAVENS! A woman in a Beijing suburb filed a lawsuit against China Dragon Garden graveyard after she saw her name in gold lettering on a headstone. About half of the 600 plots were eerily marked for prominent (and still living) people to move into. It was a marketing ploy, according to cemetery workers, to convince customers of the upscale neighbors (like basketball star Yao Ming) waiting for them in the afterlife. China’s aging population, and Beijing’s land scarcity, have driven up prices, intensifying competition and corrupt practices, according to the Los Angeles Times.

NEW MATH Texas’ highest criminal appeals court agreed on July 17, hours before Clifton Williams was to be executed, to a postponement until they could consider the significance of perhapsfaulty higher math presented to his jury in 2006.

Prosecutors claimed then that the likelihood of another black man having Williams’ DNA profile was 1 in 43 sextillion (43 followed by 21 zeros, or 43 billion trillion). Texas officials recently recalculated the FBI-developed database and concluded it was somewhat more likely that a second black man had Williams’ profile — 1 in only 40 billion trillion.

SECOND BEST DIET EVER Jason Patterson, upset that New Zealand’s healthcare administration rejected paying for gastric bypass surgery, said in July he’ll protest publicly by going on a

hunger strike. “The first two to three days [will be] really hard,” he told Channel 3 News.

PAYBACK A 27-year-old man, hanging with pals at home in Colmar, France, on the country’s National Day July 14, suffered serious injuries when he fell from his third-floor balcony — leaning over to spit on police officers below.

RUB THEM THE WRONG WAY Some owners may be petting their cats all wrong, cautioned recent research in issues of the journal Applied Animal Behaviour Science by England’s University of Lincoln scientists and University of WisconsinMadison scientists. Felines seem to prefer face-caressing, especially between the eyes and ears, and are especially aroused, negatively, by tail-petting, especially at the base. Cats appear to be pickier about how owners pet them than strangers, according to a Washington Post review of one article. The UWM research revealed cats appreciate (or are less annoyed by) music written for their pitch (an octave higher) and tempo (mimicking purring) than traditional classical music.

READ THE FINE PRINT Maine enacted legislation in July to make immigrant asylumseekers eligible for Maine’s General Assistance fund, contrary to Gov. Paul LePage’s promise to veto the bill. The governor misunderstood state law and believed legislation would be regarded as vetoed if he merely failed to sign it for 10 days. LePage appeared stunned on the 11th day, according to press reports, that he’d had the veto law backward and that asylumseekers are now eligible for benefits.

ENJOY THE GO News reports from Georgetown, Texas, didn’t identify the councilman, but Mayor Pro Tem Rachael Jonrow confirmed the man neglected to turn off his mobile microphone during a May meeting as he excused himself for a restroom break. Jonrow said she ignored the men’s room sounds on the PA system — until the noise of a toilet flushing released the councilmembers’ pent-up laughter.

THAT’S NOT KOSHER In May, local officials in China’s Xinjiang region informed Muslim shopkeepers and restaurateurs they’ll now be required to sell alcohol and cigarettes (even though Islam forbids their consumption). An official told Radio Free Asia the government aims to weaken religion.

Chuck Shepherd weirdnews@earthlink.net

AUGUST 12-18, 2015 | FOLIOWEEKLY.com | 55