Jacksonville’s comfort food lives at the intersection of Southern, coastal, and barbecue.
Big plates, porch vibes, and hospitality underpin these five local favorites.
Maple Street Biscuit Company
Born in Jax and now a regional favorite, Maple Street still feels local—especially the original neighborhoods.
Buttery biscuits are the foundation for craveable stacks like the Squawking Goat (fried chicken, pepper jelly, goat cheese) and The Sticky Maple (bacon and fried chicken drizzled with syrup).
Hash brown cakes and biscuit beignets make it a full-on comfort feast.
The Bearded Pig
A Riverside mainstay for barbecue cravings, The Bearded Pig nails brisket with peppery bark, juicy pulled pork, and ribs with a perfect bite.
The pimento cheese appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, and sides like collards, slaw, and smoked turkey chili round out the tray.
Patio seating with TVs and a family-friendly vibe make it an easy choice any day of the week.
Beach Road Fish House & Chicken Dinners
An old-school favorite, Beach Road blends coastal comfort with Southern soul.
Fried chicken dinners come crisp and well-seasoned, while seafood platters showcase local catches—fried, grilled, or blackened. Hushpuppies, mashed potatoes, and gravy bring the nostalgia.
It’s the kind of place where regulars have “the usual.”
The Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro
Soul Food Bistro delivers abundance and warmth—think turkey wings, smothered pork chops, oxtails, and fried catfish, plus sides like mac and cheese, cabbage, rice and gravy, and cornbread.
Portions are generous, the line moves quickly, and everything tastes like it’s been simmering all afternoon.
Save room for peach cobbler.
Metro Diner
Another Jacksonville-born classic, Metro Diner perfects diner comfort with a Southern accent.
The chicken and waffles—topped with strawberry butter and served with syrup—are iconic, and the meatloaf plate is deeply satisfying.
Big salads, pot roast, and daily soups keep regulars returning.
Expect a wait on weekends and bottomless coffee.
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