Riverside Avondale, a historic neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida, is not only known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture but also for its thriving food scene. This charming district offers a diverse culinary landscape, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, promising a delightful experience for every palate. If you’re eager to explore the best of Jacksonville Food, Riverside Avondale is the perfect place to start. Here are some must-try dishes that highlight the neighborhood’s gastronomic gems.
13 Gypsies: A Taste of Spain
For an authentic Spanish culinary journey, 13 Gypsies is a local favorite. This restaurant specializes in traditional Spanish tapas, crafting everything in-house, from flavorful sausages to artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread. Among their standout offerings is the daily-changing Risotto. This creamy and comforting dish is a testament to their culinary creativity, with the chefs using seasonal ingredients to create unique and delightful risotto variations each day. It’s a perfect dish to share and savor the true essence of Spanish cuisine.
Biscottis: Decadence Beyond Desserts
Biscottis has long been celebrated in Jacksonville for its indulgent dessert selection. However, before you dive into their famous cakes, consider starting your meal with their savory dishes. The Blue Cheese Crusted Beef Medallions are an exceptional choice. These tender beef medallions are elevated with a rich blue cheese crust and a savory shiitake demi-glaze, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a testament to Biscottis’ ability to deliver excellence in both sweet and savory realms of Jacksonville food.
BREW Five Points: Breakfast Delights and More
BREW Five Points is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a culinary hub that keeps locals coming back for its exceptional food and freshly baked pastries. While their coffee is a draw, the Brisket Breakfast Tacos are a must-try for anyone exploring Jacksonville food. These tacos are generously filled with tender brisket and topped with a smoky chipotle barbecue sauce, a perfectly cooked chimi fried egg, creamy white cheddar, and tangy pickled red onions. It’s a flavorful and satisfying way to start your day or enjoy a hearty brunch.
Burrito Gallery: Jacksonville’s Best Burrito
When it comes to burritos in Jacksonville, Burrito Gallery consistently ranks as a local favorite. Voted “best burrito in Jax” for numerous years, this spot has perfected the art of burrito making. For a classic experience, try their Mission Style Burrito. Packed with your choice of fillings and wrapped in a warm tortilla, it’s a hearty and flavorful meal that showcases why Burrito Gallery remains a top choice for Jacksonville food enthusiasts.
Kickbacks Gastropub: Simple Pleasures and Craft Brews
Kickbacks Gastropub, connected to Goozlepipe and Guttyworks, offers a diverse menu ranging from adventurous gourmet dishes to classic comfort food. Sometimes, simplicity is key, and their Corn Nuggets are a perfect example. These golden, crispy nuggets of sweet corn are incredibly satisfying in their simplicity. They are an ideal snack or side dish, especially when paired with one of the over 180 beers on tap, making it a quintessential Jacksonville food experience in a relaxed gastropub setting.
Mesa: Modern Indian Flavors
Mesa is a modern Indian restaurant that presents both traditional Indian dishes and innovative creations. The Paneer Burrata is a standout example of their unique culinary approach. This dish beautifully blends Indian and Italian flavors, featuring creamy paneer and burrata cheese drizzled with chili oil and served with crispy naan chips. It’s a delightful fusion that reflects the evolving and exciting Jacksonville food scene.
The Mossfire Grill: Pacific Rim Inspired Tacos
The Mossfire Grill brings a taste of the Pacific Rim to Jacksonville food with dishes like their popular Pacific Rim Tuna Tacos. These tacos feature seared yellowfin tuna combined with a refreshing tangy Asian slaw, crisp green onions, and a homemade sesame seed sauce, all served in a soft flour tortilla. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day of the week, these tacos offer a burst of fresh and vibrant flavors.
Prospect Five Points: Happy Hour Bites
Prospect Five Points is known for its lively happy hour, making it a great spot to gather with friends and enjoy drinks and shareable plates. Their Pistachio Crusted Goat Cheese Balls are an excellent choice for sharing. These creamy goat cheese balls are coated in crunchy pistachios and drizzled with a delicate lavender honey, creating a sweet and savory appetizer that perfectly complements their drink menu and embodies the social Jacksonville food culture.
Restaurant Orsay: French Fine Dining
For a refined dining experience in Riverside Avondale, Restaurant Orsay is the perfect destination. This restaurant offers fine French cuisine in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Indulge in their classic Steak Frites. The dish features a rosemary-seasoned steak paired with a rich red wine jus and a luscious butter sauce, accompanied by perfectly crisp pommes frites. It’s a quintessential French dish executed with precision, representing the sophisticated side of Jacksonville food.
Taqueria Cinco Five Points: Hidden Gem Tacos
Taqueria Cinco is a beloved local gem tucked away in the Five Points area of Riverside Avondale. A highly recommended taco here is the Repollitos Taco. This unique taco features Brussel sprouts glazed in a complex Oaxacan mole, topped with fresh queso fresco, tangy pickled onions, and a nutty almond salsa, all served on a freshly made corn tortilla. It’s an inventive and flavorful taco that showcases the diverse and exciting flavors found within Jacksonville food.
Exploring Jacksonville food in Riverside Avondale is a journey through diverse flavors and culinary styles. From Spanish tapas to French fine dining, and innovative tacos to comforting classics, this neighborhood offers a taste for every craving. Venture into Riverside Avondale and discover your own favorite Jacksonville food experiences.
