Jacksonville, Florida is a big city with a unique mix of eclectic restaurants. People are warm and friendly, and because the city is so large geographically, you are bound to find distinctly different neighborhoods with a lot of personality. Five Points offers a haven for artists, and the food is reflective of the people with restaurants serving up gourmet sandwiches, salads, and beer. By the beach, you have a more casual crowd with surf boards getting together at Gene’s Seafood for their signature fried shrimp. One of my favorite things to do is visit new and exciting restaurants to have an appetizer and drinks with friends. Below, you will find some great suggestions for some of the best seafood restaurants in Jacksonville.
Clarks Fish Camp
12903 Hood Landing Road
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Phone: 904-268-FISH
http://www.clarksfishcamp.com
Clarks Fish Camp is located on the St. Johns River in beautiful Julington Creek. They have indoor and outdoor seating. Although the restaurant is quite casual, it has personality, and surprisingly you will find a host of preserved animals throughout the restaurant. Tigers, deer, lions, and birds lurk all around, but try not to let it spoil your appetite as the food is spectacular. Although Clarks serves up prime rib and chicken, you will want to go for the seafood. Best bets include the crab soup, and the seafood gumbo that comes loaded with shrimp, sausage, and scallops. The smoked fish dip is another treat and is served with crackers. If you dine on the patio, soak in the scenic view of the river, but don’t feed the gators. The restaurant is casual but reservations are accepted.
Aqua Grill
950 Sawgrass Village Dr
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Phone: 904-285-3017
The Aqua Grill is located in posh Ponte Vedra Beach and is the perfect place for get togethers and special occasions. They feature a full bar, lounge, and patio dining is available. Diners are sure to have an elegant and pleasurable dining experience. The staff is knowledgable and friendly, and specialties include the Mayport shrimp and grits, and the delectable grilled salmon. The presentation is fabulous as is the wine list, and you will love soaking in the romantic ambiance of the place. Reservations are a must, and you don’t want to miss out on dessert.
Benny’s Steak and Seafood
2 West Independent Dr
Ste 175
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: 904-301-1014
http://www.bennyssteakandseafood.com/
Benny’s is a notable seafood restaurant located downtown on the St John’s River. They are known for their perfectly grilled steaks and delightful seafood dishes. Specialties include any of their pasta selections, and the chef seabass. The great thing about Benny’s is you can have a romantic dinner date or take the kids for a night out as they have a children’s menu. The restaurant is perfect for both occasions. If you are on a budget, go for lunch. They offer $8.95 lunches that include a non-alcoholic beverage. If the weather is good, dine out on the patio for a spectacular view of the river.
Restaurants in Jacksonville are plentiful, and one of the dishes that the city does right is seafood. You can get it fried, grilled, or broiled, but count on a memorable dining experience, amazing views, and great food.
