Jacksonville, Florida, the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, is known for its sprawling beaches, vibrant arts scene, and a diverse culinary landscape.
Family-owned restaurants in Jacksonville bring heart, history, and homecooked flavors to the forefront, making dining here a truly enriching experience.
Here are the five best family-owned restaurants in Jacksonville that you absolutely must try.
Carmines Pie House
Carmines Pie House offers an authentic taste of New York-style pizza with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Start with the Garlic Knots, soft and doughy knots brushed with garlic butter, and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, served with marinara sauce for dipping.
Their Brooklyn Special Pizza, topped with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers, brings a taste of the Big Apple to Jacksonville.
End your meal with a slice of their famous Cannoli, a crispy pastry shell filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
Metro Diner
Metro Diner delivers classic American comfort food in a cozy and welcoming setting that feels like home.
Begin with the Fried Chicken and Waffle, a signature dish featuring crispy fried chicken served atop a fluffy Belgian waffle with strawberry butter and sweet syrup.
Their Meatloaf Plate, made with a secret blend of spices and served with mashed potatoes and gravy, is the ultimate comfort food.
Finish with a slice of their award-winning Diner Apple Pie, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar
The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar combines fresh seafood with Southern hospitality in the heart of Jacksonville’s historic Avondale district.
Start with a dozen Gulf Oysters, fresh-shucked and served on the half shell with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
Their Shrimp and Grits, featuring succulent shrimp sautéed with smoked sausage over creamy, stone-ground grits, is a Southern classic done right.
End with the Key Lime Pie, a tangy and sweet dessert with a graham cracker crust that captures the flavors of Florida.
BB’s Restaurant and Bar
BB’s Restaurant and Bar offers an eclectic menu with a blend of American and international flavors, set in a trendy, urban space.
Begin with the Beef Carpaccio, thinly sliced and topped with arugula, Parmesan, capers, and a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant appetizer.
Their Thai Meatloaf, a unique twist on a comfort food staple, features a blend of Thai spices and is served with wasabi mashed potatoes and a ginger soy glaze.
Finish with the Seven Layer Chocolate Cake, a decadent dessert that’s perfect for sharing or indulgently savoring all on your own.
Taverna
Taverna brings rustic Italian cuisine to Jacksonville with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and handmade pastas.
Start with the Burrata Caprese, featuring creamy burrata cheese, heirloom tomatoes, and fresh basil drizzled with olive oil.
Their Pappardelle Bolognese, house-made wide noodles topped with a rich and savory meat sauce, is a hearty and satisfying entrée.
End with the Tiramisu, a traditional Italian dessert with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder.
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