Brian Nagele
Jacksonville, a gem on Florida’s northeastern coast, serves up brunch that’s as bright and inviting as its morning shores. In this sprawling city, brunch isn’t just the first meal of the day; it’s a social event, a culinary excursion, and a weekend tradition rolled into one. Here, you’ll find a smorgasbord of brunch options, from airy waterfront cafes dishing out fresh, ocean-inspired fare to cozy, sun-dappled patios where the aromas of rich coffee and sweet pastries mingle in the air. With a laid-back vibe and menus bursting with inventive takes on brunch classics, Jacksonville’s eateries master the art of the leisurely late breakfast. So, let’s set off on a journey to uncover the crème de la crème of Jacksonville’s brunch scene.
21. Maple Street Biscuit Company
Multiple locations
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Known as “comfort food with a modern twist”, Maple Street is popular in most of the big cities in Florida, but what makes the Jacksonville locations so unique? Well for starters, some of the friendliest staff I’ve ever met works there. Shoutout to Kenya. Jacksonville Maple Street has the best mocha and biscuits out there. You’ll want to visit for brunch simply because of all the different options. There were more biscuit variations than drinks!My personal favorite is The Farmer, a fluffy biscuit with chicken, bacon, and cheese. It was the perfect pick-me-up for a day spent at the beach. I recommend getting here early because their seats seem to fill up fast and they stop serving at 2 pm.
20. Biscottis
3556 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205
904-387-2060
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One of the best bistro-style brunches I have ever had was right here in Jacksonville, FL. Located in Avondale, inside the Avondale Shopping Center, is a cozy charming neighborhood just minutes from the historic Five Points, Biscottis is a true Jacksonville staple. At Biscottis, you’ll be served some of the best hand-crafted cocktails you’ve ever had, all in an elegant and Southern-style setting. Their brunch is served between 8 am and 3 pm, and features some of the best brunch food I’ve had in Florida, including their Creme Brulee French Toast, and Sweet Potato Pancakes. Their mimosas were delightful, but their most noteworthy drink is their Peach Bellini.
19. Metro Diner
9802 Baymeadows Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32256
904-425-9142
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Although not local to Jax, Metro Diner is widely known around town as one of the best brunch spots. If you’re a fan of pumpkins, this is the place for you. Their brunch menu features the tastiest Pumpkin Pancakes out there. Not to mention their super cheap mimosas only cost about $3 each. Looking around, I found their Italian Meat Lover’s Burrito Press to be a crowd favorite, motivating me to try one of my own. And I must say, I was not disappointed. The Baymeadows area is one of the busiest neighborhoods in Jacksonville, so I had no problem finding things to do in the area after brunch.
18. Taverna
1986 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
904-398-3005
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I love visiting Taverna for a classic outdoor brunch affair. Chef Sam Efron is committed to only serving seasonally fresh ingredients, authentic Italian, and local meat. This combination makes for some of the highest quality Italian food you can get here in the states. My favorite dish here is the Lemon-Ricotta Pancakes. And to wash it all down, I thoroughly enjoyed the Ramos Fizz. The San Marco area is one of the most abundant neighborhoods in Jacksonville. After having brunch at Taverna, you can enjoy a nice walk, or visit Memorial Park.
17. Town Hall
2012 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
904-398-0726
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Chef Tom Gray hosts some of the best Sunday brunches in the city. This was truly an experience I couldn’t miss. Located in the San Marco area, this restaurant is nestled right in the heart of the city. The restaurant is also just a short drive from downtown Jax, which features lively parks and fascinating museums. I enjoyed dining at Town Hall because the food was fresh; you can tell by the way they design their plates. My favorite brunch dish was the Smoked Salmon Toast, washed down with their $5 mimosas and bellinis.
16. Beach Diner
Multiple locations
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With all of its locations on the beach, this restaurant rightfully lives up to its name. Their brunch starts precisely at 6 am and features common American favorites. Customers rave over their pancakes, Belgian waffles, and french toast, but my personal favorite is their Ultimate Bubba Special, which is eggs mixed with home fries, topped with cheese, grits, bacon, sausage, and pancakes. Trust me, you won’t have room for seconds. Their prices are also pretty modest. Their mimosas are just $6 each and include an extensive wine list.
15. Orsay
3630 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
904-381-0909
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This brunch spot is the perfect example of when a French bistro meets a southern staple. Orsay is popular around town because of its inviting atmosphere that can only be described as a “feeling of having wine with friends.” Their menu can be categorized as Parisian bistro classics with a contemporary heart. Some of their best “brunch libations”’ include their Grand Mimosa and Manifest Reviver. Careful with the Reviver, because the amount of gin they load in this cocktail will seriously leave you revived! Of course with your craft beverage, you can enjoy some of their tasty brunch food, such as the infamous Carolina Trout, or the Bourbon and Orange French Toast. Orsay is located on Park Street, a part of Jacksonville’s Riverside district. In Riverside, townies enjoy walks along shopping strips and parks where they can get a great view of the St. Johns River. It’s also a pretty great place to get steak when you’re in Jax, too!
14. BB’s Restaurant + Bar
1019 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207
904-306-0100
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This is my favorite spot in Jacksonville for a weekend brunch. Their brunch is served only on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 am and 3 pm, and features some of the best brunch food you can get in this city. My favorite brunch dish is their Omelette Du Jour. Their eggs are always fresh, fluffy, and cooked to perfection. I also enjoyed their classic cocktails. BB’s isn’t big on mimosas, but their signature drinks like the Bee’s Knees make up for it. BB’s is centrally located in San Marco, a short drive to downtown and about 20 minutes out from the beach.
13. Southern Grounds
Multiple locations
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You can enjoy some of the best bagel creations here at Southern Grounds. I’ve tried a couple of different Tartines (French open-faced sandwiches) from different restaurants, but none of them measure up to the ones here at Southern Grounds. For brunch, I recommend the Goat Cheese, Pear & Honey Tartine. It’s the perfect combination of sweetness and fruit for an eventful day in Jacksonville, FL. Southern Ground’s food display is truly Instagram-worthy. You’ll snap pictures the entire time. Aside from their alluring display, Southern Grounds is also known for its artisan bakery, which has some of the best cheesecakes and baked goods in the city.
12. Culhane’s Irish Pub
9720 Deer Lake Ct, Jacksonville, FL 32246
904-619-3177
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If you’re looking for a little culture with your brunch, then look no further than Culhane’s. I like Culhane’s because it retains its Irish heritage while catering to a posh and hungry crowd. Culhane’s is near the University of North Florida, so you’ll likely see the college crowd a lot when visiting. The best food you can get here for a weekend brunch is the Irish Breakfast, which comes with a bunch of food, or the Irish Skillet, which isn’t as much food but is sure flavorful for the portion. Customers love to visit Culhane’s especially for their brunch sides, which include traditional Irish babycakes, Irish beans, and Irish bangers. Their “hair of the dog” brunch happy hour also includes some of the best cocktails in the city, such as the Sister’s Bloody Mary and the Super Sister’s Bloody Mary. Each drink features a “crisp dog of Irish sass in each glass.”
11. Jax Beach Brunch Haus
610 3rd St S, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
904-945-4287
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Located just two short blocks from sunny Jax beach, Jax Beach Brunch Haus is a residential favorite for obvious reasons. For starters, its proximity to the beach makes it an automatic favorite. It’s also near a popular jewelry shop and a tattoo parlor. Their famous brunch affair is unique and fun for all visitors. You start with your choice of the base and can choose between hash, an omelet, a sandwich, or a wrap. Then you choose your brunch style (filling). Style options include Left Coast style, Sirloin style, or one of my personal favorites: San Fran style. Their most popular brunch-tails include the Sunny Bloody Brunch Day and Paradise City. My favorite cocktail from Jax Beach Brunch Haus is the Here Comes the Sun, which is a traditional mimosa with the addition of orange rum.
10. Fox Restaurant
3580 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205
904-387-2669
I like to visit the Fox Restaurant in Jacksonville because it’s in the Saint John’s area, the perfect neighborhood for catching a good view of the river. While at Fox, I enjoyed their Coyote Burger. I don’t usually order a burger for brunch, but this was one of the best burgers I’ve had in a while. I especially enjoyed the signature sauce that came on it. The vintage decor surrounding the joint is another reason I can’t seem to get enough of this place. Their prices are quite modest for the Saint Johns area, so I appreciated this the most. As far as simple brunches go, this is the perfect Jacksonville brunch for visitors on a budget. After brunch, I was able to walk to Sivada’s for a specially crafted cupcake.
9. Taco Lu
1712 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
904-249-8226
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I love Mexican food and Taco Lu is the Mexican restaurant for enthusiasts in Jax. It started as a small taco shack and steadily grew into one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. When eating at Taco Lu, you’ll be in the heart of all the action. It is located next door to Wild Adventures and Shipwreck Island waterpark. The restaurant sits on a beautiful landscape with charming green views. You’ll enjoy the fact that your meal comes with the scenery. You can get traditional Mexican fares here, such as Mexican Street Corn and a variety of gourmet tacos. For brunch, their menu shortens to breakfast tacos and tequila. Their cocktail menu was recently renovated and now features handcrafted cocktails such as The Double Barrel Margarita and La Paloma. I especially enjoyed this visit because of how friendly their staff was, which is great for large groups!
8. Secret Garden Cafe
10095 Beach Blvd Ste 600, Jacksonville, FL 32246
904-645-0859
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Secret Garden Cafe received a legendary makeover back in 2011 by HGTV, but rest assured, the fame never made Secret Garden Cafe’s owners lose sight of what’s important: quality food at a modest price. Secret Garden Cafe is near the hands-on children’s museum in Jax beach, and it’s the perfect outing for a day with the kids since their menu doesn’t feature alcoholic beverages. The best food here at Secret Garden Cafe is the Hot Mess, the Morning Grab Platter, and Strawberry N’ Cream French Toast. Locals recommend Secret Garden Cafe because it’s homey, near the beach, and modestly priced.
7. Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar
3551 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205
904-387-0700
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This is one of the best seafood restaurants in town. And being in Jacksonville, these locals know seafood. I was surprised to find out how good their brunch was with their seafood selection being so extensive. When dining at Blue Fish, you’ll be near downtown Jax and Boone Park. This is one of the most famous parks for walking your dog or enjoying the outdoors. Their brunch menu includes house-made specialty waffles, fresh seafood, and breakfast sandwiches. They also have an extensive list of brunch cocktails. My favorite is the Blackberry Ol’ Fashioned, which is a mix of bourbon, blackberry puree, and orange twist.
6. Brick Restaurant
3585 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205
904-387-0606
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I love eating next to the river whenever I’m in Jacksonville, FL, so it’s no surprise I chose Brick Restaurant as one of the best brunch restaurants in town. It’s an Italian-inspired restaurant located about a block and a half from the St. Johns River and features a full bar, but that’s not even the best part. Brick has brunch on the weekend and serves popular entrees like the Spanish Frittata and Huevos Rancheros. Their famous beverages served during brunch, also known as “eye-openers,” are specially crafted and certified in taste. My personal favorite is the Bacon Bloody Mary.
5. Cool Moose Cafe
2708 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
904-381-4242
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Owned by a local couple, Cool Moose Cafe is a great Jacksonville brunch spot for locals and tourists alike. Their menu features options from the grill, vegan food, egg starters, and omelets. They also have the best grilled cheese I’ve ever had from a local cafe. Cool Moose Cafe is located near Willowbranch Park and Fairy Village, making it a perfect spot for pictures. I especially enjoyed dining at Cool Moose Cafe because of its alluring decor. It feels like you’ve taken a step into a cafe in Italy. They have outdoor dining as well for those wanting to enjoy their breakfast with a soft breeze. I like their outdoor seating because it’s a good chance to enjoy breakfast while sitting in a cute antique chair.
4. Another Broken Egg
Multiple locations
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Don’t let the name fool you; this spot isn’t just another breakfast spot. I like to dine here for brunch because you can start your day with delicious southern-style biscuits, gourmet omelets, and unique eggs benedict. Their avocados are fresh from Mexico which is another plus for you avocado-on-toast lovers. Their mimosas are to die for. They feature Wycliff California Champagne, which is a bottle of high-quality champagne that pairs well with natural fruit juices. Also, they have a Tito’s Lemon Mule that pairs well with their signature sandwiches. In the area is ample parking for the beach, and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum is right around the corner.
3. Casa Marina Hotel and Restaurant
691 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
904-270-0025
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If you’re looking for a tasty brunch in Jacksonville right on the beach, then stop by Casa Marina’s Hotel and Restaurant. It’s even near the popular Jacksonville Beach museum, which is a real tourist attraction, especially in the warmer months. On Sundays, Casa Marina hosts some of the best brunches in Jacksonville. Their food is home-style but upscale at the same time. You can enjoy breakfast classics such as beignets, or fancier fares such as the Shrimp and Sweet Hash. What I found most fascinating about Casa Marina is the extensive mimosa menu. They have over 8 different mimosas, with the option for bottomless mimosas as well. The ambiance is upscale, as most hotels are, but there’s no need to dress in a suit and tie. The environment is casual and classy.
2. The Southern Grill
800 Flagler Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207
904-858-9800
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The Southern Grill is one of the best local brunch spots in Jacksonville because of its lively atmosphere and vegetarian options. They’re known for serving a variety of cuisines including breakfast, BBQ, and greek platters. And they excel at them all. For brunch, you’ll want to try their giant omelets and Belgian waffles. This place never disappoints in filling me up. While they don’t specialize in craft cocktails, you can still enjoy all the other live events that are just as fun as bottomless mimosas. The Southern Grill regularly hosts trivia nights, karaoke nights, and live jam sessions, making this a real hometown favorite.
1. Uptown Kitchen and Bar
1303 N Main St, Jacksonville, FL 32206
904-355-0734
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I’ve always loved loft-style restaurants because they make me feel so classy and elegant. This is why I like to visit Uptown Kitchen and Bar whenever I’m in Jacksonville. Near Uptown is the Southbank Riverwalk, where locals enjoy serene walks by the water. It’s also conveniently located near the Graffiti Alley, a small hole-in-the-wall featuring some of the best artwork by city locals. Their menu serves breakfast all day. My favorite dish from Uptown is the Vegan Tofu Scramble for my vegan side and the Let’s Meat Up for my cheat days. Residents informed me their mimosas are some of the best in the city, and you can even get them to go.
Why Trust Us?
When it comes to local restaurant recommendations, we pride ourselves on being a reliable and trustworthy resource. Our suggestions are not just based on our personal experiences, ensuring a more authentic and well-rounded perspective, but also on extensive online research. We diligently searched the internet and reviewed 5 credible sites and blogs, including Miami.eater.com and Tripadvisor.com.
We compiled all the findings in one location and sorted them by the frequency of mentions to ensure you receive top-notch recommendations. We strive to present you with a curated list of establishments that truly stand out, allowing you to enjoy the best dining experiences possible.
Interested in the sources we consulted? Check out the list of all 5 sites we referenced below this paragraph, offering transparency and an opportunity for our readers to explore further. Our commitment is to deliver trustworthy and unparalleled recommendations, helping you make informed decisions on your culinary journeys.
https://jacksonvillemom.com/in-around-jax/the-ultimate-jacksonville-brunch-bucket-list/
https://miami.eater.com/maps/best-brunch-jacksonville
https://www.visitjacksonville.com/blog/jacksonvilles-top-hot-brunch-spots/
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g60805-zfp10606-Jacksonville_Florida.html
https://www.opentable.com/features/best-brunch-restaurants-jacksonville-fl
