Hot Seats Essential Jax Eateries and Side Dishes

hot seats

Eleven South Bistro

Jacksonville Magazine offers a select list of area restaurants as a service to its readers. The directory does not include every restaurant in town. It does, however, feature many of the magazine’s Top 50 choices of must-try eateries, as well as a sampling of other notable Northeast Florida dining establishments. Suggestions are welcome. Please contact us at mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

1928 Cuban Bistro

Family-run establishment specializes in authentic Cuban cuisine, baked goods and cafe con leche. House specialties include guava and cheese pastries, chicken, beef and ham and cheese empanadas, and congri bowls made with white rice and black beans topped with choice of braised chicken or roasted pork. Of course, the Cuban sandwich (roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on warm bread) is top seller. Flan, churros and tres leches for dessert. 3928 Baymeadows Rd., Baymeadows (683-8104); 160 Shops Blvd., St. Johns (2095162); 6331 Roosevelt Blvd., 6331 Roosevelt Blvd., Ortega 1928bistro.com. B ,L, $$.

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Alhambra serves up dinner and a show inside its performance hall. Formerly a buffet service, the Alhambra is becoming known as much for its culinary experience as it is for its Broadway-caliber productions. The nation’s oldest continuously operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as The Best Little Whorehouse

GUIDE to the GUIDE:

B–Breakfast; L–Lunch; D–Dinner; SB–Sunday Brunch $–$10 or less; $$–$11 to $20; $$$–$21 to $30; $$$$–$31 or above

These $ categories are based on the average cost of a dinner entrée excluding drinks, desserts and/or gratuities. NOTE: Some restaurant entrée prices do not include à la carte sides or salad. All phone numbers are in the (904) area code. Cafeterias, fast food joints and primarily take-out restaurants are not eligible for inclusion.

in Texas (February 9-March 12) and Jersey Boys (April 27-May 28). 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

Al’s Pizza

This home-grown string of pizza joints offers a wide selection of appetizers and New York-style pizza, alongside traditional Italian dishes, Al’s menu includes unexpected items like mussels in wine and garlic butter sauce to satisfy the adventurous foodies out there. They also offer delivery for those in the area of their restaurants. Four locations including 8060 Philips Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza.com), L, D, $.

Aqua Grill

Aqua Grill has a contemporary, eclectic menu with a coastal flair made from local ingredients. The Ponte Vedra eatery is known for its top of the line service and has been featured on both Jax Mag’s Top 50 Restaurants and Best in Jax lists for many years. 395 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-3017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.

bb’s Restaurant & Bar

Bb’s specializes in New American fare and treats, giving comfort food an upscale presentation. Menu items include yellowfin tuna tartare and ancho-spiced rotisserie turkey. They also boast an international cheese selection and top-notch desserts. 1019 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (3060100; bbsrestaurant.com). L, D, SB, $$.

The Bearded Pig

This casual San Marco barbecue spot and bar (complete with an oversized chalkboard wall for kids and plenty of TVs) serves turkey, chicken, brisket, pulled pork and the like, counter-style. Owners Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt both have fine dining backgrounds, so even the standard fare is a bit more grown up than what you might expect at a “Q” joint. And though it’s a meat-fest, there’s truly something for everyone: all of the sides (slaw, collards, mac-n-cheese) are vegetarian. 1224 Kings Ave., San Marco (619-2247); 1700 3rd St., Jacksonville Beach (518-3915) thebeardedpigb-

bq.com. L, D $$.

Biscottis

This neighborhood landmark for more than two decades specializes in innovative updates on old favorites, like meatloaf served with apricot marinara sauce and duck confit pizza (dinner specials change daily). The dessert case is legendary. Casual. 3556 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (387-2060; biscottis.net). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Black Sheep Restaurant

Situated in Five Points, Black Sheep’s menu ranges from delicate dishes like smoked trout rillettes to staples of the American South like their gluten-free wild Georgia shrimp & grits. Black Sheep boasts one of the best rooftop bars in the city, making sipping a cocktail at sunset a must. 1534 Oak St., Five Points, Riverside (3803091, blacksheep5points.com). L, D, SB, $$.

Blue Bamboo

This restaurant (relocated from the Southside) serves hip, Asian cuisine with a wine lounge and patio dining. Menu items include miso-marinated salmon, Cantonese orange duck, Ahi tuna salad and Mandarin orange cake. 10110 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (646-1478; bluebamboojacksonville.com). L, D, $$.

Blue Orchid

palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Their pad Thai and dynamite chicken are house favorites. 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville (723-1300; blueorchid.menu). L, D, $$.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, which has been pit-smoking everything from turkey to pork since 1949. Try the Slawpy Pig, a heaping pile of pulled pork topped with coleslaw and served with sides such as fried corn on the cob, collard greens, or Brunswick stew. Multiple locations (880-8310; bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.

Caffé Andiamo

A copper pizza oven highlights this stylish eatery specializing in frutti di mare, pollo paisano, vongole Positano, and homemade Italian sausage. Caffe Andiamo compliments their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (280-2299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.

Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila

Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas as well as short rib, chiles rellenos and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson Cir., St. Augustine (295-3847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.

ChopHouse Thirteen

Formerly The Tree Steakhouse, this restaurant offers a sleek, chic dining room. Along with their grilled steaks of 100% Angus beef, they also serve seafood and feature a conditioned wine room with ample variety. 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (262-0006; chophouse13.com). L,D, $$$.

Coastal Wine Market & Tasting Room

A standout in Nocatee’s growing collection of dining spots and shops, the interior is dressed in warm woods, hightop tables and more bottles of reds, whites and sparkling wines than one could count. Happy Hour, Tuesday thru Saturday, 4 pm-6 pm featuring $3 off wine pours and $2 off craft beer. Taste new menu additions, including Eggplant Rollatini, Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini, Maine Lobster Flatbread and Petite Filet. Wines sold by the glass, bottle and three-tasting flight. 641 Crosswater Pkwy., Suite B, Nocatee Town Center (395-3520, coastalwinemarket.com). D, $$.

Coop 303

Coop 303 is known for its regional cuisine featuring smoked heritage pork belly, beef short ribs and grilled pork chop. But the Beaches Town Center restaurant also features local seafood dishes and is home to the Impossible Burger. Coop also has plenty of spots to hang out and sip their signature cocktails: community tables; alcove booths; a front porch; a rooftop garden; and an upstairs parlor. 303 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (372-4507; coop303.

com). L, D, $$.

Costa Brava

Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Costa Brava is the signature restaurant of the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. An extensive menu covers much culinary territory, with an emphasis on seafood and local ingredients. Dinner starters include items such as Florida little neck clams and Georgia peach salad. Entrées are highlighted by crab-crusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorn-crusted short ribs. Save room for the spiced chocolate cake. Be sure to enjoy cocktails in the Cobalt Lounge. Private dining room available. 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine (819-6018, KesslerCollection.com/costa-brava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.

Cruisers Grill

For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing. Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics, plus newer options like a house-made fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (270-0356). L, D, $.

Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants

Straight from Limerick, Ireland, the four sisters who operate the city’s two Culhane’s pubs draw legions of regulars with classics such as Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Stew. Bangers N’ Mash, Corned Beef N’ Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Cheese-Crusted Cod—the flavors of the Emerald Isle live here. Full bar. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (249-9595); 9720 Deer Lake Ct., Southside (619-3177), culhanesirish-

pub.com. L, D, SB, $$

Eleven South Bistro

This upscale eatery features an extensive wine list, mesquite wood grill and outdoor patio. Seafood martini, lobster mac and cheese, miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and mesquite-grilled certified Angus beef tenderloin highlight the menu. 216 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (241-1112;elevensouth.com). L, D, $$$$.

Ember & Iron

An 8-foot oak-burning grill is the heart of the kitchen, searing and smoking house specialties such as lemon and herb roasted fish, ribeyes and seared salmon. Brunch favorites include buttermilk chicken, cast iron French toast and steak and eggs benedict. 60 Shops Blvd., #80., St. Johns (531-5185; emberandiron.

com). D, SB, $$$.

The Fish Company

With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone. Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (246-0123; thefishcojax.com). L, D. $$$.

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar

As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach (and now in Avondale), the Flying Iguana represents one of the liveliest dining options in Duval. Specializing in Latin-American cuisine and expansive cocktail possibilities, the restaurant also hosts live music and has only one rule: Good Vibes Only. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach (853-5680, flyingiguana.com); Iguana on Park, 3638 Park St., Avondale (8348383, iguanaonpark.com). L, D, SB, $$

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

There are a handful of Harry’s peppered around Florida, including a waterfront location in St. Augustine across from the Bridge of Lions. The eatery brings Louisiana flavor to the regional seafood scene, serving up Cajun and Creole dishes. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedonharrys.com). L, D, $$.

HOT TOPIC

If you weren’t able to make it out to the inaugural Battle of the Datil! on November 12 at St. Augustine’s Tringali Barn at Heritage Farms, you missed an afternoon of hot sauces, hot dishes and all things Datil Pepper. Posted here is an easy Datil-infused recipe that provides a small taste of what was served. Make it at home to heat your next holiday gathering.

DATIL KING FISH DIP

By Captain Billy of Endless Summer Charters 3 lbs. smoked fish deboned and skin off 8 oz. cream cheese 8 oz. jalapeno cream cheese 8 oz. mayo 6 oz. Cock A Datil Doo sauce 1 large red onion Put the fish in a food processor and gently pulse until the fish is broken down, then add the cream cheeses and mayo. Stir in the cream cheese and mayo by hand. Once the mixture is uniform, add the diced red onion and Cock A Datil Doo sauce. Refrigerate and let the dip sit for at least 12 hours before serving.

That's Amore

Change is a constant in the restaurant business. That change continues in Avondale with the November opening of Josephine, an Italian eatery now occupying the St. Johns Avenue space that previously housed Barrique Kitchen & Wine Bar. Josephine is the creation of owner Josh Floyd, someone who is very familiar to Avondale dining regulars, as he was the beverage manager across the street at Biscottis before striking out on his own. The restaurant is named for Floyd’s paternal grandmother, Josephine, and will offer seating for 100 spread across four spaces including a lounge and private dining room. “I’ve been fortunate to travel to some incredible places and have always been inspired by my culinary experiences along the way,” says Floyd. “When I decided to pursue my dream of opening a restaurant, my main goal was to bring an elevated, high-quality hospitality experience in a space that piques all five senses.” Serving dinner nightly with lunch and weekend brunch planned in the months to come.

DAMAGE DONE

The devastation left behind in Hurricane Ian’s and Hurricane Nicole's wakes will take years to repair and restore. Homes, boats and cars by the thousands were destroyed by strong winds and flood waters, particularly in communities along the coast. However, unseen by many tuning into nightly news broadcasts was the significant damage done to Florida agriculture. The combination of seasonal crops, livestock, nursery and aquaculture products potentially lost as a result of the category 4 Ian will likely be valued between $787 million and $1.6 billion, University of Florida economists predicted in analysis released in October.

For example, citrus crops are expected to sustain significant production losses, depending on the level of fruit drop, damage to branches and impacts due to flooding. Vegetables and melons losses may reach nearly $400 million, depending on the ability to replant damaged crops. And livestock operations (beef and dairy cattle) and producers of animal products (milk, eggs, honey) suffered significant losses due to damaged fencing, power outages and flooding.

“Even though the coast—an area with comparatively less agricultural production than inland areas—bore some of the worst impacts of the storm, the strong winds and heavy rains battered a wide swath of the pennisula that includes over five million acres of agricultural land,” says Christa Court, a professor at the University of Florida/IFAS food and resources economic department. “Our preliminary estimate is a range, a wide range, to account for many unknowns. What isn’t destroyed might have diminished yield or quality, which will not be apparent for weeks or months, and then even more effects can appear in the long term.” u

With delicious French food, a handpainted French mural, and a replica of the Eiffel Tower, customers feel as if they are relaxing at a bistro in Paris. With a separate, yet just as talented pastry chef, you will find yourself indulging in the finest French desserts and pastries such as eclairs and fruit tarts. This one-of-a-kind restaurant offers the best of France in food, wine, and desserts. 7643 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (996-7557; jjbistro.com/ gateparkway). L, D, $$$.

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

Open since 1994, JJ’s Liberty Bistro is a familyrun establishment offering one of the largest selections of wine in Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts frequent wine dinners featuring some of the largest wine producers around the world, including Chateau L’Angelus, Veuve Clicquot, and Plumpjack. You’ll find hundreds of different bottles in the retail store, as well as the finest cheeses, caviars, and homemade desserts. Stop by the ice cream and chocolate/macaron shop located just next door. 330 A1A N., Suite 209, Ponte Vedra (273-7980; jjbistro.com/ ponte-vedra). L, D, $$$.

Le Petit Paris Café

A little slice of France in the River City, the chef-owned establishment specializes in toasted croissants, quiches and baguette sandwiches. Le Parisien is a classic French hand-held with ham, Swiss and salted butter. The Le Flore salad is a must-try with smoked salmon, tzatiziki cream, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh pastries, macaron and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappuccino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio. 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparis-

jax.com). B, L, $.

M Shack

Specializing in burgers made from hormone-free, freshly ground beef, M Shack has been voted best “Gourmet Burger” in our Best In Jax issue. Their menu also includes burger joint favorites such as all-beef hot dogs, fries, sweet potato tots, and handspun shakes. St. Johns Town Center (642-5000; mshackburgers.com); Nocatee (395-3575). L, D, $.

Matthew’s Restaurant

A fine-dining experience in historic San Marco. The menu is comprised of French and Mediterranean dishes crafted by Chef Alex Yim and also possesses a vast wine selection. Menu items include venison carpaccio, Maine diver scallops, and Osetra caviar. 2107 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (396-9922; matthewsrestaurant.

com). D, $$$$.

Restaurant Medure

This restaurant features high-end favorites like escargot and caviar, while also making room for classics like meatloaf. Their menu features global cuisine with a local influence, ranging from handcrafted pasta to duck leg confit poutine. 818 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (5433797; restaurantmedure.com). D, $$$.

Mellow Mushroom

With more than 200 locations around the country, Mellow Mushroom has garnered a loyal following for its stone-baked pizza flavor combinations and for offering up craft beer, premium imports and local favorites. Whether you’re looking for a local brew like the Aardwolf Nonchalant or the Ancient City Augustine’s Orange Amber Ale or prefer to branch out to other areas of the good ol’ USA, this pizza palace has a beer to fit everyone’s taste. Menu features baked chicken wings, spinach artichoke dip and a dozen house speciality pizzas. Multiple area locations: Avondale, Fleming Island, Southside, River City, Jacksonville Beach (mellowmushroom.

com). L, D, $$.

Mezza Luna Ristorante

Mezza Luna’s menu focuses on seafood and Italian dishes. Located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center, this long-time neighborhood favorite offers seating on their covered patio, formal dining room, and lounge that often hosts live music. 110 1st St., Neptune Beach (249-5573; mezzalunajax.com). D, $$$.

Midtown Table

A culinary concept from the Medure Brothers, this Gate Parkway eatery specializes in all-things Italian. That means appetizers run the gamut from seasonal burrata to meatballs with house-made bread. Entrées include fresh pastas, Neapolitan pizza, and heartier fare (like pork marsala and salt-baked zucchini). 5016 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (503.4122; midtowntable. medurebrothers.com). L, D, $$.

Mojo Bar-B-Que

This regional chain showcases Southern barbecue styles like Texas and North Carolina, including everything from burnt ends to pulled pork. Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whiskey selections

Park It Here

New casual community gathering spot debuts in Springfield.

BY DELANEY AKRIDGE AND FABRIZIO GOWDY

If you’ve recently driven through Springfield on a Saturday night, you may have noticed a lively scene at the corner of 4th and North Main streets. The setting is the new Main Street Food Park, a community gathering place for live music, food trucks and a variety of events.

Main Street Food Park is the vision of Cherron Johnson, a nurse in the Navy Reserves, and Hector Zayas, Sr., a retired Navy vet. Hector moved to Springfield in 2016 and quickly fell in love with its close-knit feel, and it wasn’t long before girlfriend Cherron came to share his admiration. The couple married, built their home together on Laura Street, and bought a food truck, eventually purchasing an empty lot on the corner of 4th and Main, a property which they had been eyeing for two years.

Since opening in October 2021, the space has hosted a number of events including live jazz performances, game nights, and a Harvest Jamboree fundraiser. With a rotating schedule of food trucks parked here, daily offerings range from grilled tacos to tikka masala. The newest addition to the park is a long-awaited food service building where guests can order beer, wine, pressed sandwiches, and more. In addition to their weekend soirées, the park also has a big screen where football fans can have Sunday brunch while the Jaguars play.

A short block away is Sesquicentennial Park where a number of holiday events are held. The evening of November 25, Music on Main stages a Christmas Cantata, a tree lighting ceremony and holiday market with local vendors. Then, on December 13, another Springfield tradition returns—a nighttime bicycle ride and parade. The route covers the majority of the neighborhood and gives riders the perfect vantage point to enjoy the lights and sights of the season. The parade gets rolling at 6 PM.

Good Afternoon, Vietnam

Tucked away in an almost hidden shopping plaza near the intersection of Beach and Kernan boulevards, A Bit of Saigon owner and chef Alex Nguyen has mastered the magnum opus of Vietnamese cuisine: Pho bo. Considered to be the signature of Vietnamese cuisine, pho bo combines the salty, sweet and spicy flavors associated with each of Vietnam’s three regions. The country’s official dish, this savory soup pairs slices of salty beef with a slightly sweet, translucent broth.

The origin story of the dish is a bit of a mystery, though it’s generally understood to have been inspired by the French one-pot stew, pot du feu, which is phonetically similar to pho. Chef Nguyen says the genesis of many traditional dishes are the result of France colonizing the Southeast Asian country in the 19th Century.

Banh Xeo is a crispy turmeric crepe stuffed with bean sprouts, mushrooms, shrimp and pork. It melds the traditional French pancake with the meats and spices present in the Indochinese region. France also introduced coffee to Vietnam in the mid-1800s and the country has since become one of the world’s largest coffee producers, second behind Brazil.

At A Bit of Saigon (3503 Kernan Blvd.), Ca Phe is made using traditional methods—brewed coffee is sweetened with condensed milk and served over ice. For dessert, chef Nguyen makes his own creme brûlée, another nod to French culinary influences. u

and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (732-7200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (247-6636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (381-6670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). L, D, $$.

Nineteen

Located inside the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass, this fine-dining restaurant matches the high quality you would expect for a place that hosts The Players Championship. The menu is dominated by seafood and local fare, like lime pepper-crusted tuna and ribeye steak. The broad back patio overlooks the golf course. Sawgrass Clubhouse, Ponte Vedra Beach (273-3238; tpcsawgrass.com). B, L, D, $$.

Ocean 60

Ocean 60 provides upscale seafood dining just yards from the ocean. The Beaches mainstay is known for their award-winning cocktails served in the Martini Room, which offers a relaxed atmosphere and live music. 60 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2470060; ocean60.com). D, $$$$.

O-Ku Sushi

O-Ku offers upscale Japanese cuisine, a rooftop bar and patio and seafood from fish markets in Tokyo, Hawaii and here locally. Check out the chef specialties and small plates like tuna crudo, Agedashi tofu and O-Ku rock shrimp or just go straight for the rolls including Neptune’s Beard (shrimp tempura, avocado, spicy tuna, salmon, spicy aioli, sweet soy, chive) and the Firecracker (crispy panko fried roll with spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, goat cheese mousse, sweet soy). 502 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (694-2770, o-kusushi.com). D, $$$.

Restaurant Orsay

An upscale French bistro with local, Southern flavor, meals at Restaurant Orsay are the epitome of a high-end dining experience. The chef-owned restaurant offers an extensive drink selection and some of the best oysters in the city, having won Best in Jax multiple times. 3630 Park St., Avondale (381-0909; restaurantorsay.com).

D, SB, $$$$.

Peony Asian Bistro

Known for their modern interpretations of classic Chinese dishes, their strip mall location belies the quality of their Cantonese-style plates and inviting atmosphere. Peony offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery. A must order is the peking duck. 10586 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (268-3889). L, D, $$.

Philly’s Finest

When you call yourself Philly’s Finest, you better bring the Cheesesteak magic. For the love of Pat’s and Geno’s, they’ve been doing just that for two decades at the Jax Beach sandwich institution. American, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses, sautéed onions, mushrooms, pickles, sweet peppers, black olives, Cheese Whiz—each order can be customized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too.

Poe’s Tavern

Located at the end of Atlantic Blvd. in the heart of the Beaches lies a gourmet burger joint where you can experience an ample beer selection and the cool breeze of the ocean from their outside seating area. Each menu item is named after one of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous stories, including the Tell-Tale Heart, a half-pound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2417637; poestavern.com). L,D, $.

Ragtime Tavern

Open for more than 20 years, Ragtime is North-east Florida’s oldest microbrewery. The menu is loaded with items like shrimp bruschetta, Louisiana crawfish and sautéed mussels. Try the bistro filet and crab-stuffed shrimp, Cajun fettuccine or the sesame tuna. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7877; ragtimetavern.com). L, D, SB, $$.

The Raintree

Located in historic St. Augustine inside a Victorian house, complete with a fireplace and koi pond, The Raintree offers upscale dining with an eclectic menu comprising American, Mediterranean, and Asian dishes. Don’t miss the decadent dessert bar with made-to-order crepes, adult ice cream cocktails, cookies and cake. 102 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine (824-7211; raintreerestaurant.com). D, SB, $$$.

River & Post

Rooftop bars are popping up all over Northeast Florida. Arguably one of the best can be enjoyed at River & Post. The restaurant specializes in upscale American fare—seared hanger steak, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon almondine. Small plates, charcuterie, sushi rolls and flatbreads are available on the rooftop. 1000 Riverside Ave., Riverside (575-2366; riverandpostjax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

RP’s Fine Food & Drink

RP’s serves local fish and fresh produce inside a casual beach setting. The menu features items such as conch fritters, a crab cake BLT, and Shrimp 308—sautéed local shrimp doused in spicy cajun butter over rice with hushpuppies. 1183 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach (853-5094; rpsjax-

beach.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Rue Saint-Marc

Led by executive chef Scott Alters, Rue Saint-Marc strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort by serving decadent menu items like halibut meunière while maintaining exceptional service and a quaint atmosphere, all just steps from the heart of San Marco Square. 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (619-0861; ruesaint-

marc.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Safe Harbor Seafood

Fresh, locally caught seafood is the calling card for Safe Harbor. That’s not surprising, as customers can practically see the shrimp boats of Mayport from the restaurant’s front door. It’s easy to see why hungry diners have been drifting here

Good Food Has An Address.

If you’re out and about, stop by one of our sister restaurants. 3 Palms Grille in Sawgrass and COMING SOON, City Grille & Raw Bar in San Marco.

3PalmsGrille.com

216 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach 904-241-1112 | ElevenSouth.com

CityGrilleRawBar.com

for years. Sure, the menu is laden with clams, oysters, crab cakes and other seafood standards, but sometimes a basket of fried shrimp, slaw, fries and hush puppies is a little slice of heaven. 4378 Ocean St., Mayport (246 4911, safeharbor-seafood.com). L, D, $$.

Salt Life Food Shack

“Salt Life” is a ubiquitous phrase in Northeast Florida, and for many represents a lifestyle of relaxing fun and, above all, love for our adjacent ocean. This restaurant channels that vibe in a dining experience and seafood-heavy menu designed to appeal to all locals and beach-lovers who enter, ranging from tuna poke bowls to Boca-style grouper. 1018 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (372-4456; saltlifefoodshack.com); 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine

Beach. L, D, $$.

Sliders Oyster Bar

With its open-air bar and broad covered patio, Sliders oozes beaches vibes and charm. A sister restaurant of Safe Harbor Seafood, diners rest assured the fish, shrimp, and shellfish are going to be the freshest around. The raw bar serves all the seafood staples like steamed clams, peel and eat shrimp and oysters on the half-shell. The oysters Rockefeller is baked with spinach, parmesan, provolone and breadcrumbs. The oysters “Godzilla” are served raw with seaweed salad, cucumber wasabi and the house “pirate” sauce. 218 1st St., Neptune Beach (246-0881, slidersoysterbar.

com). L, D, $$.

TacoLu

In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this uber popular restaurant serves nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and about any kind of taco you desire, with fish tacos being their specialty. TacoLu fulfills their niche well, and it’s what earned them the designation of “Best Tacos” in the city in our Best In Jax reader’s poll. Oh, and they have over 100 types of tequila and mezcal. 1712 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (249-TACO;

tacolu.com). L, D, SB, $.

Taqueria Cinco

Located in funky Five Points, this restaurant focuses on providing top-notch hospitality while serving authentic Mexican eats. If you come on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to try their Al Pastor. Happy hour food and drink specials available Mon.-Fri. from 3-6:30. Closed Sundays. 809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.

com). L, D, $$.

Taverna

Taverna offers authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Its focused menu brings out the best in Mediterranean flavors, producing dishes like antipasto and orecchiette. All of their pasta and mozzarella are house-made, and the pizzas are cooked in a wood oven at the back of the dining room. 1986 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; taverna.restaurant).

L, D, SB, $$.

Town Hall

Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence to Florida. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches such as outlets in the bar area. 2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-0726; townhalljax.com).

D, SB, $$$.

Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar

Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach

(285-7777). B, D, $$$.

Whitey’s Fish Camp

Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, north-of-the-border steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-you-can-eat catfish. Check out the deck, tiki bar and dock, where you can even arrive by boat. 2032 C.R. 220, Orange Park (269-4198; whiteysfish-camp.

com). L, D, $$. u

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“Serving Locals at the Beach for 36 Years”

JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE’ S 2022 READERS POLL WINNER

1183 Beach Boulevard | Jacksonville Beach 904.853.5094 | rpsjaxbeach.com

Statement of Ownership, Management & Circulation (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685)

Publication Title: Jacksonville. Publication Number: 74-9870. Filing Date: 10/18/22. Issue Frequency: Monthly. Number of Issues Published Annually: 9. Annual Subscription Price: $18.95. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204-3869. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: Same. Full names and complete mailing addresses of Publisher, Editor-in-Chief, Editor and Owner. Publisher: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204-3869; Editor-in-Chief: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204-3869; Editor: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204-3869; Owner: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204-3869. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1% or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None. Tax Status: Has Not Changed in preceding 12 months. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: October 2022. Total no. of copies printed (net press run): Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 13,500. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 13,500. Paid and/or requested Circulation: Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales (not mailed). Average no. of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 900. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 595. Paid and/or requested mail subscriptions: Average no. of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 8,941. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 8,198. Total paid and/or requested Circulation: Average no. of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 9,098. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 8,793. Total free distribution: Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 3,120. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 2,964. Total distribution: Average no. copies each issue preceding 12 months, 13,219. Actual no. copies each of single issue published nearest to filing date, 13,124. Copies not distributed (includes estimated returns from news agents, copies for office use, leftovers, spoiled and all other copies not distributed): Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 281. Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 376. Total: Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 13,500. Actual no. copies each single issue closest to filing date, 13,500. Percent paid and/or Requested circulation for each issue during preceding 12 months, 67%. For single issue published nearest to filing date, 65%. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete.

Joseph O. White, Publisher

Jacksonville Magazine’s online editions (posted at JacksonvilleMag.com) average more than 3,500 views per month, for a total of 40,000-plus per year.

JACKSONVILLE CHEFS & RESTAURANTEURS REVEAL THEIR DREAM HOLIDAY MEALS

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

he holidays are always exciting, filled with both intimate and extravagant celebrations that are keenly anticipated and lovingly remembered. It's also a time when friends and family gather around the dinner table to feast upon uniquely seasonal and traditional foods. For professional chefs, this is when they're busiest, preparing all of the gastronomic delights that lend special flavor and enjoyment to other people's festivities.

Turning the tables, we were curious to know what a few of Jacksonville's leading culinary pros look forward to during the season when they're not preoccupied with the demands of their kitchens and can pamper themselves. Specifically, we wanted to know what they consider their dream holiday meal. For Dennis Chan, chef and owner of Blue Bamboo, he certainly enjoys a Thanksgiving turkey and Christmas ham. For both occasions, however, he explains, "No holiday meal is complete with out my grandfather's recipe for wok-stirred cranberry-baguette dressing. It is probably the most fusiony recipe before fusion was even a thing in the 1970s."

Tom Gray, chef and owner of Prati Italia and Town Hall, reveals a craving for champagne and pumpkin pie. Apparently, champagne is readily available at his holiday gatherings, often in large bottles... and always with pumpkin pie. Most surprising is that he still likes his pie served with Cool Whip, exactly as it was when he was a kid.

Considering Jacksonville's diversity, it's no surprise that some holiday traditions originated overseas and found their way into festivities

PHOTO LAURA EVANS

here in Jacksonville. According to Barbara Bredehoeft, owner of B the Bakery (supplier of cakes to bb's and Biscotti’s), "My husband's German roots have been the primary influence when Christmas Eve rolls around. Every year, our go-to holiday favorites are German potato salad and German hot dogs slathered with spicy mustard."

Similarly, Nelson Quintero, corporate executive chef for Flying Iguana, Iguana on Park, Coop 303 and Mezzaluna, enjoys holiday traditions that stem from his Puerto Rican roots. With celebrations that start around Thanksgiving and last through to the middle of January, there’s plenty of time to enjoy a whole pig roasted on an open fire accompanied by rice with chickpeas and some home made pasteles—similar to tamales and stuffed with pork, encased in green plantain masa and wrapped in banana leaves. According to Rebecca Reed, corporate pastry chef for Black Sheep, Bellwether, and Orsay, her dream meal is one where she gets to do most of the cooking. Admitting that she doesn't mind working in the kitchen on her day off, she dreams of a brined and smoked turkey, gravy, roasted root vegetables, cranberry apple chutney, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, buttermilk brioche rolls, and her Grandma Penny's southern cornbread dressing.

What's most apparent is that, for each of these chefs, their appreciation of good food extends well beyond their restaurants and onto their holiday tables at home. Whether traditional or global in origin, their celebrations are built on fond memories and shared with love among family and friends. u