Best Downtown Jacksonville, Florida Restaurants & Bars

Downtown Jacksonville’s Best Restaurants & Bars

🍽️ Downtown Jacksonville’s Best Restaurants & Bars

If you're staying at our Jacksonville vacation rentals, you’re just minutes from some of the city’s top dining and nightlife. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, or a rooftop view, downtown Jax has something for everyone.

Top Downtown Jacksonville Restaurants

  • Bellwether (100 N Laura St) – A rising star for smart dishes like shrimp & grits and Hong Kong waffle-fried chicken. Perfect for foodies looking for bold flavors.
  • River & Post (1000 Riverside Ave) – A seafood-forward pick with a rooftop lounge and incredible river views. Ideal for sunset dinners.
  • Town Hall (Central Downtown) – Seasonal small plates, wine, and cocktails in a community-focused kitchen setting by Chef Tom Gray.
  • The Little Stove (56 N Central Park Plaza) – A classy daytime option with Italian-trained culinary flair and rotating daily menus.
  • BB’s Restaurant & Bar (San Marco, just over the river) – An award-winning staple known for its comfort food, quality drinks, and welcoming atmosphere.

Best Bars & Nightlife in Downtown Jacksonville

  • The Elbow (Bay St Corridor) – A district packed with over 20 venues including dive bars, cocktail lounges, and music halls. Perfect for bar hopping.
  • The Volstead (115 W Adams St) – A cozy speakeasy with vintage vibes and expertly crafted cocktails. Don’t miss their whiskey specials.
  • Dos Gatos (123 E Forsyth St) – Known for lively crowds, karaoke nights, and creative cocktails in a fun, upbeat setting.
  • Sidecar – A casual hangout that pairs great drinks with wood-fired pizza from V Pizza.
  • The Parlour, Spliff’s Gastropub, The Circuit Arcade Bar, Hardwicks, Locals’ – Local favorites offering unique drinks, live DJs, and even retro games.

🎉 Sample Downtown Night Crawl

  1. Start at River & Post with a rooftop cocktail and scenic views.
  2. Head to The Volstead for a vintage speakeasy experience.
  3. Hit Dos Gatos for some energetic nightlife and karaoke.
  4. End at Circuit Arcade Bar or Spliff’s for late-night fun and local brews.

💡 Insider Tips

  • Live music fans: Visit Breezy Jazz Club or check out local acts in The Elbow.
  • Early lunch? The Little Stove and BB’s are excellent choices for brunch and midday dining.
  • Adventurous? Explore nearby San Marco for even more food options, or extend your trip to Jacksonville Beach’s bar scene.

From rooftop lounges to hidden speakeasies, downtown Jacksonville offers the perfect night out for guests staying at Vacation Rental Destination Relaxation. All of these spots are just a short drive away from our Jacksonville vacation rental homes.

Ready to explore Jacksonville’s food and bar scene? Book your stay with us and enjoy the best of Downtown Jax!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Premium shopping Jacksonville, Florida

Image
With the holidays fast approaching, Jacksonville, Florida, offers a variety of options for premium shopping for that special gift for someone, including upscale malls, designer boutiques, and luxury shopping districts. Here are some of the top destinations for premium shopping in Jacksonville: St. Johns Town Center: St. Johns Town Center is one of Jacksonville's premier shopping destinations, featuring a mix of high-end retailers, luxury brands, and upscale dining options. Anchored by department stores like Nordstrom and Dillard's, the outdoor shopping center also boasts designer boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Kate Spade New York. The Avenues: Located on Jacksonville's Southside, The Avenues is another popular shopping mall offering a wide selection of upscale stores and dining options. Visitors can shop for designer clothing, accessories, and home goods at retailers like Apple, Michael Kors, Pottery Barn, and Williams-Sonoma. The Markets at Town...
Read more

Best Rooftop Bars Around Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville, Florida offers some fantastic rooftop bars where you can enjoy beautiful views and refreshing drinks.  Each offers its own unique ambiance and views, so be sure to check them out to find your favorite spot! Here are a few popular options: River & Post : Situated on the rooftop of a historic building in Riverside, River & Post offers panoramic views of the St. Johns River and downtown skyline. The rooftop bar serves handcrafted cocktails, local beers, and a diverse menu of small plates and entrees. Cowford Chophouse : This upscale steakhouse in downtown Jacksonville features a rooftop bar with views of the city skyline and the St. Johns River. Guests can enjoy cocktails, fine wines, and premium spirits while taking in the scenery. Dos Gatos: While not strictly a rooftop bar, Dos Gatos has a second-floor balcony that offers a great vantage point for people-watching in downtown Jacksonville. It's known for its extensive selection of craft cocktails and lively ...
Read more

Is There a Jacksonville Art Scene? You Bet There Is!

Image
Jacksonville, FL, has a distinctive and growing art scene that offers several unique aspects and a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, from traditional to contemporary. The art community in Jacksonville is known for its supportive atmosphere. Local artists and organizations collaborate frequently, fostering creativity and innovation.  Jacksonville also hosts several art festivals and events throughout the year. These events celebrate different art forms, including visual arts, performing arts, music, and culinary arts, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural calendar. The city also supports emerging artists through various galleries, art studios, and creative spaces. These venues provide opportunities for up-and-coming artists to showcase their work, gain exposure, and connect with art enthusiasts and collectors. Events like the Riverside Arts Market provide platforms for artists to showcase their work and engage with the community. RAM is located under the canopy of th...
Read more