Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville isn't an exotic travel destination but it does have a lot to offer. The city is the largest in the U.S. in terms of total acres so it can be hard to find good restaurants and accommodations. Luckily, you can read this blog and rely on my knowledge of the city to guide you to the best spots!

Top Restaurants:

1. Salt, Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island (9.5)

Which restaurant is the best in all of Jacksonville? One word: Salt. Until 2008, the acclaimed Salt restaurant, located in the Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island was listed as a AAA five diamond restaurant. Despite falling to a 4 diamond rating in 2009, Salt remains the top ranked restaurant in North Florida. These accolades did not come by accident.

Upon entering Salt, patrons are greeted with a sprawling view of the ocean in a traditional upscale setting. This view is complimented by a delicious menu which changes weekly. On a recent visit, I chose the prix fixe menu which included a variety of creatively prepared dishes including: lobster salad drizzled with an apple glaze, seared tuna, and kobe beef.

Diners at Salt can also expect to be treated to over 40 salt varieties and over 500 wines. However, diners should not expect to pay less than $250 dollars for a two-person dinner. Plan to dress nice because jackets are required for men. Don't go overboard with dress, men may feel overdressed in a suit and tie. In sum, Salt is the most upscale and highly-rated restaurant in Jacksonville and it is a perfect place to celebrate your latest milestone. Is it the best? That question ios always up for debate.

2. Eleven South, Jacksonville Beach

This basically looks like a house and it's in a residential neighborhood so it's easy to miss. The main draw here is the food. I recommend the lobster mac and melted goat cheese for an appetizer. The Bibb salad with mango, avocado, and toasted macadamia nuts is also good. The Pecan Crusted Rack of Lamb, Chilean Sea Bass, and Seared Diver Scallops are also excellent. For dessert, the Blueberry and White Chocolate Bread Pudding is a good one to try. The wine selection is pretty thorough. Franciscan "Magnificat" ($16 per glass) from Napa is a safe bet. The Cambria Pino Noir ($12 per glass) should also be a solid choice. The interior is laid back but classy. I'd recommend a button-up shirt for men and a dress for women. Men would feel at home in a coat but no tie is needed.

3. Bistro Aix, San Marco

A relatively large bistro that has two large rooms inside: the Onyx Bar and the main dining room. The decor is gothic in the dining room with a large clock on the wall and medieval chair backs. The Onyx Bar is completely white with couches and pillars throughout.

4. Restaurant Medure, Ponte Vedra

Recently re-opened, this stylish restaurant is a nice place for a big night out.

5. Espeto, Avondale

6. Seafoam Room, Ponte Vedra

7. 95 Cardova, St. Augustine

8. Roy's, Jacksonville Beach

9. Ruth's Chris, Downtown Jax

10. Cantina Laredo, St. John's Town Center