HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN NEED NOT BE OVERLOOKED COMPANIES WITH HEART
SALUTING LOCAL BUSINESSES DOING GREAT WORK
MUSEUM SECRETS
NORTHEAST FLORIDA'S ODD, UNUSUAL AND PRIZED ART AND OBJECTS
A select listing of the region's top private schools.
From breakfast sandwiches and chocolaty desserts to tummy-warming soups and racks of ribs, let’s take a big bite out of the Northeast Florida foodie scene.
The Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Wine Tasting Gala is stepping up to the plate for an unforgettable evening at VyStar Ballpark.
Companies With Heart
Annual salute to Northeast Florida businesses that consider community pride, charitable causes and giving back all part of a successful organization. Right at the Museum
You might be surprised to learn what some of our local institutions consider their most prized possessions. Solid As A Rock
historic neighborhood flush with stunning residences has but one Marble House.
Publisher’s Note
The business of restaurants is an ever-changing endeavor. Today’s hot food trend is yesterday’s Jell-o salad. Diner preferences are not static. They come and go like the tide at Jax Beach, and restaurateurs and chefs need to stay in touch with what their customers desire—at least those who wish to remain in business do. This is particularly true of independent, mom-and-pop eateries.
Now, that’s not to say the drive-thru lanes at your neighborhood Chick-fil-A are going to be less crowded any time soon. A tasty chicken sandwich and fries have timeless appeal, wouldn’t you say? But ask the marketing folks over at Cracker Barrel how finicky diners can be. The restaurant chain counts more than 650 locations across the country, including about 60 in Florida. Last year, Cracker Barrel hatched a plan to help it keep current by changing its logo and refreshing their interior decor. As we all know, the new ideas fell flatter than a day-old pancake and many customers elected to purchase their toast, grits and eggs elsewhere.
According to a variety of industry sources, restaurants will have to navigate some degree of troubled waters in 2026. Costs for produce, beef and other ingredients will remain high, as will labor, rent and other business-related expenses. Of course, it’s really never been easy to open and successfully manage a restaurant, and even those with loyal followings need to be nimble and adjust to each day’s circumstances—will my seafood order arrive on time, will the dishwashing machine break, will my chef take another job.
As for food trends in 2026, the James Beard Foundation asked chefs from around the country for their insights, specifically things they believe will impact the way we dine, drink and talk about food this year. Among their offerings were chefs using more unusual ingredients such as fish collars, vegetable stems, and seaweed in ways they haven’t before. Also, they expect menus to get smaller, with the idea being operators should focus on fewer things done well. Comfort foods will remain in demand and cost is king. Not
necessarily cheap foods, but does a meal feel like a deal at a particular price point, whether that be $20 for a burger, fries and a beer or $95 for a tasting menu.
The Michelin Guide , the bible for global fine dining, predicts more chefs will utilize cooking over embers, live fire and hot stones. Homestyle favorites will see a resurgence in popularity, even at fine dining establishments. Think meatloaf served with a quenelle of potato puree with truffle butter and peppercorn sauce. And look for vegetables like endive and radicchio to be kitchen staples, as will techniques of fermentation, aging and concentrated stocks.
Will these ideas filter across the First Coast dining scene? We'll have to wait and see. Count us among those who are hungry to find out. u
Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
DIVORCE FOR WOMEN, BY WOMEN
The team at Florida Women’s Law Group is committed to ensuring women are informed, prepared, and supported to assert their rights, whether it’s regarding nancial support or timesharing arrangements. Through over 40 years of combined legal experience, we’ve recognized common patterns where women, understandably a ected by fear and uncertainty, may sometimes hesitate to begin the process. Once they do take that rst step, there’s a natural inclination to seek a quick resolution, sometimes overlooking their own well-being in the process. Through a combination of empathetic support and robust legal advocacy, we guide our clients through the divorce and family law process, safeguarding their interests and future. Our commitment extends beyond legal representation, aiming to foster relationships and support women not only in winning their legal battles but also winning at life. Contact us at Florida Women’s Law Group today.
Florida Women’s Law Group is the only divorce and family law firm for women in Northeast Florida. Practice Areas:
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UPCOMING EVENTS
FEBRUARY 12
Bold City Classics Big Band, Talons Golf Course
FEBRUARY 22
Florida Chamber Music Project, Beaches Museum Chapel
NEWSLETTERS
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JAX FILES
“I noticed students would stand and stare into the sink when entering the room. One day, I walked over to take a look to see what was mesmerizing them. That's what prompted me to shoot photos. Here is a swirl of dried paint and tiny scratches that forms an accidental canvas on the art room sink at Long Branch Elementary School. The photo captures the quiet traces of creativity left behind by young artists. Each layer of color is a memory of a project washed away, yet never fully removed.”
— by Steve Pederson Art Teacher, Long Branch Elementary School
CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: Do you have an image of Florida you’d like to share with our readers? Submit your photo and the story behind it to mail@jacksonvillemag.com for the opportunity to be featured on this page.
Small Talk
Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Ponder on This Month
J Just like King George, the Broadway smash Hamilton will be back. But you will have to wait a little while. FSCJ Artist Series is bringing back the musical as part of its upcoming season featuring Mrs. Doubtfire (February 10-15), Moulin Rouge! The Musical (March 10-15), A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical (April 14-19) and Beetlejuice (May 12-17). As an enticement for fans, purchase a three-show package (starting at $172) and you’ll be guaranteed a seat for Hamilton.
J Starting this spring, JetBlue begins offering nonstop flights from Jax to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Flying an Airbus A320, the new yearround route will operate Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday beginning on March 13.
JetBlue previously fly from Jax to San Juan, but that service discontinued in 2014.
J Some people hate it, others love it. Driving on the beach, that is. Annual St. Johns County beach driving passes for 2026 are on sale for $50 (county residents), $100 (non-residents), and $40 for ADA-accessible passes. Passes can be purchased at various locations including tax collector’s offices through March 1. After that, they can be had at the county fishing pier and the toll booths at eight access ramps between Vilano and Crescent beaches. Vehicles do not need a pass prior to March 1.
J According to Research.com, the median cost of studying at the 53 institutions of higher learning in Florida is $22,660 per year—not bad
considering the median alumni salary for Florida grads is $40,861. Presently, there are 9,300 more women than men attending these colleges and universities. The average acceptance rate for Sunshine State colleges in the current year is 67 percent. Not surprisingly, University of Florida is considered the most difficult and prized acceptance letter for applicants to receive.
J If Florida were a country, it would rank as the 15th largest economy in the world, with a gross domestic product exceeding $1.7 trillion. According to the Florida Chamber Foundation, the state surpassed Spain and stands less than $26 billion behind Australia. Statewide, the workforce totals more than 10 million, a figure higher than the population of 40 individual U.S. states. u
Park It Here
More access to the city’s miles of waterfront—particularly in the vicinity of Downtown— has been a talking point for local politicians for years. Finally, some of that talking has come to fruition. Not only did Riverfront Plaza recently debut on the Northbank parcel that was once home to the Jacksonville Landing, across the St. Johns the new RiversEdge Park has opened to the public. Here, steps from the Duval County School Board building, are four pet-friendly acres of property that include a walking track, grassy lawn, and a fitness area called “The Gym.” In addition to the paved walkways, an elevated, 1,500-foot boardwalk winds through a marshy wooded area that loops around back to the park. Additional plans call for a 125slip marina and public kayak launches—all of which will be incorporated into the larger RiversEdge development and its retail, apartment, condo and hotel properties. u
FLORIDA WOMEN’S LAW GROUP
Heather Quick, Owner, CEO, and Attorney
Heather Brooke Quick is the founder and CEO of Florida Women's Law Group, the only divorce and family law firm for women in Northeast Florida. Based in Jacksonville, she has built a reputation for championing women's rights through compassionate advocacy and legal excellence. With a background as a former prosecutor and over two decades of legal experience, Heather leads with vision and purpose. Beyond her professional achievements, she is also a certified yoga instructor, dedicated community volunteer, published author, and podcast host.
EDUCATION
Juris Doctor, with honors (December 2000)
Stetson University College of Law
ASSOCIATIONS
Florida Bar Association
Jacksonville Bar Association Board member on the Ponte Vedra High School Football board
PUBLICATIONS
"Women's Guide to Divorce in Florida" "Is Divorce Right for You"
"Women's Guide to Becoming a Successful Entrepreneur"
"Time To Fly: The Untold Stories of Courageous Women Conquering Divorce"
"Discovering Me: a Guided Journal"
Creator and host of the podcast "Women Winning Divorce" Fifth book in progress
Jacksonville Ultimate CEO –Jacksonville Business Journal, 2024
Jacksonville Magazine's Best Lawyers – 2024
Lawyers of Distinction: Excellence in Family and Divorce Law – 2024
Top Attorneys in Jacksonville –Jacksonville Magazine, 2023
Fast 50: Northeast Florida's Fastest Growing Privately Owned Companies – Jacksonville Business Journal
Law Firm 500 Honoree – 2021, 2017, 2016
Enterprising Women of the Year Award Winner –Enterprising Women, 2018
Super Lawyers Honoree – 2017 (Top 5% statewide)
Ultimate Attorney – Jacksonville Business Journal, 2017
Top 50 Fastest Growing Firms –Jacksonville Business Journal, 2017
Woman of Influence – Jacksonville Business Journal, 2017
Best Gender-Focused Family Law Boutique –Southern USA – Acquisition International, 2016
Silver Stevie Award – Female Entrepreneur of the Year, 2015
Silver Stevie Award – Women Helping Women, 2015
AVVO Client's Choice Award
AVVO Top Contributor Award
CHEW ON THIS
WHAT’S NEW AND NOTEWORTHY IN LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK
St. Johns Town Center welcomed owner Kal Gullapalli and the city’s first PopUp Bagels shop in December. Started in the Northeast, the chain has grown to about 23 stores across the country serving just whole bagels and schmears like truffle cream cheese and maple cinnamon butter. No sandwiches here, just bagels and spreads.
The city’s second Bold Birds Hot Chicken opened on San Jose Boulevard. The new outlet serves the same menu as the Murray Hill original—spicy chicken tenders, sandwiches and wings, Southern sides, and milkshakes. Heat levels range from Classic (no spice) to Hotter Than a Mother Clucker (extreme heat).
The St. Augustine Beach dining scene keeps growing and evolving with the arrival of new eateries such as T. Smith Asian Bistro along A1A South, offering a Thai fusion menu (think pad Thai, Panang curry and basil fried rice) laced with seafood, steaks and lamb, as well as sushi, sashimi and creative cocktails at the bar.
Pecan Craft Kitchen recently debuted in Fruit Cove. Contemporary design on the exterior while the interior fills with the aromas of a Southerninspired menu laden with creative takes on classics such as datil pepper pimento cheese,
Relatively new to PVB, Ponte Vedra Wine Bar & Restaurant on Solana Road is bright and colorful serving brunch, lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday. Menu highlights include bacon Brussels sprouts, blackened whole snapper, veggie ceviche and craft cocktails like The Terri, with tequila, pomegranate puree, lime and soda water. We love the tropical wallpaper.
Gotta dance? If so, step on over to The Volstead the first and third Sunday of the month. The Downtown watering hole clears the floor for Swing Dance Sunday, making the speakeasy feel like the coolest living room in town. Cocktails start pouring at 4 PM, dancing (with lessons) kicks off at 7 PM.
citrus-grilled shrimp and grits, and pecan-fired grilled chicken with lemon rosemary jus. Desserts like banana puddin’ are served in mason jars. How about a chocolate Whoopie pie? Yes, please.
Step into the earthy world of fungi at a workshop with John Red of Samurai Fungi February 22, 12:30-2 PM, at the Cummer Museum. “Mushrooms at the Edge” explores the role of mushrooms in natural ecosystems and artistic inspiration. They can be delicious, too.
After more than a decade based in Augusta, Georgia, gourmet gifting brand Watanut is relocating its headquarters and primary bakery to Amelia Island. Best known for its shortbread cookies, premium nut mixes, and gift baskets, Watanut’s new bakery is slated to open on 8th Street in February. “We fell in love with the spirit of Fernandina Beach,” say founders Brian and Kam Kyzer. Its Centre Street retail shop will remain open, selling its mix of cookies, ice cream sandwiches, Amelia-branded gifts and, of course, lots of nuts.
Chef Nils Rowland
He’s an established star in St. Augustine’s culinary scene. Now he’s a Food Network champ. Chef Nils Rowland, co-owner of Creme de la Cocoa, and his TV teammates recently won Sweet Empire: Winter Wars on Food Network, dazzling judges with their incredible and edible works of dessert art. Congrats, Nils.
Save the date:
The Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation’s annual Wine Tasting Gala, one of the city’s largest annual foodie fetes, is set for March 5, 6:30-9:30 PM, at VyStar Ballpark, across the street from EverBank Field. $150 early-bird tickets went on sale in January. u
Watanut
Pecan Craft Kitchen
The Sound and the Fury
FOUR TIMES EVERY WEEKDAY BIG JIM REFUSED TO BE IGNORED, TO THE CONSTERNATION OF MANY
BY TIM GILMORE
“UNNECESSARY NOISES SHOULD BE ABOLISHED,” the headline shouted in all capital letters on January 27, 1914, such noises delivering “Severe Shock to Neurasthenic Patients.” The latest bulletin from the Florida State Board of Health lamented “automobile beaus” who ran their “auto engines” late at night “when returning the girl home.” The section called “Church Bells” began with the sentence, “There’s another useless noise.”
Big Jim, the bulletin explained, was “the pet name for a great brazen-throated steam whistle” at Jacksonville’s waterworks, “which is sounded four times every weekday to announce the beginning and ending of work hours at 7, 12, 1 and 5 o’clock.” Additionally, when fire alarm call boxes rang the fire department from any street corner, Big Jim answered, and “day or night, this great deluge of noise is poured forth on an innocent public.”
Big Jim had whistled through his gullet since 1890, a decade after, as T. Frederick Davis wrote in his 1925 history of the city, “John Einig of Jacksonville made it with his own hands out of sheet copper.” Einig named it for his brother-
in-law, Jim Patterson, and patented the design. In fact, other sources attest, Patterson built the whistle.
Einig built steam whistles for boats and ships as a hobby, but the city had no steam source big enough for the whistle until the Jacksonville Waterworks installed new boilers beside the electrical plant in 1890. Einig began work for S.B. Hubbard, hardware, in the 1870s, retired as vice president, and died at 57 years old, two years before World War I, in 1912. In honor of John Einig’s death, Big Jim bellowed over the city for one full minute.
Six months before the start of World War I, three years before America’s entry, the Board of Health reported, “We are a nation of nervewracked people. Any extreme noise aggravates such persons.” The bulletin considered “the strong, rugged city man,” tragically “compelled to seek rest in his annual vacations in order to ward off the breakdown, and he seeks it in the quiet of the country where he may escape the noise, which has worn him perilously near to the breaking point.”
One-third of city-dwelling Americans, the Board of Health said, suffered from neurasthenia, a term used by late-Victorian alienists and early 20th Century psychologists for a condition that included headaches, high blood pressure, fatigue, depression and anxiety. In the 1880s and ’90s, European medical writers began referring to neurasthenia, a condition to which Americans in particular seemed susceptible, as “Americanitis.” Just after the turn of the 20th century, Rexall Drugs started marketing a product called “Americanitis Elixir” for “nervous prostration” and “nervous derangement, exhaustion and debility.” It was 15 percent alcohol and contained chloroform.
Big Jim, argued the Board of Health, had served Jacksonville as its alarm clock for too long. In fact, the board believed, the relationship was the other way around. The city served the whistle. Big Jim demanded citizens get out of bed, get to work, go to lunch and finish lunch. It informed nervous urbanites “when (but not where) the fires were.” People depended on Big Jim blindly and believed him indispensable, when really he was “a relic of the village stage of Jacksonville’s development.”
The Board of Health failed to mention that Big Jim sounded the clarion on May 3, 1901, the dawn of the Great Fire, which decimated the city. Four years after the hysterical bulletin, Big Jim blasted a fanfare for the armistice that ended World War I. It had ballyhooed the ignition of public electricity in the city in 1895, electric lighting having first lit the St. James Hotel downtown in 1893 and blinked on down Bay Street two years later. The city ignored the Board of Health’s call to quiet Big Jim and managed somehow to survive.
In early November 1933, nearby residents had complained to the Jacksonville City Commission, hoping to shut Big Jim’s mouth, but the City decided “half as long a whistle would do,” and shortened the steam blast to 15 seconds. By the time Big Jim trumpeted the peace at the end of World War II, it was back to 30 seconds.
On September 10, 1971, Big Jim went silent. At first, almost nobody noticed. The Associated Press remembered the recent “clamor to keep the whistle working in 1966, when the steam boiler in the old water works in downtown Jacksonville went out of service and Big Jim was due
to be retired.” Since the whistle “required two men to handle the operation,” the Jacksonville Electric Authority had decided to automate it and almost nobody noticed when Big Jim went silent during the transition. Personally hurt, JEA Managing Director Lou Winnard said, “We had only three telephone calls in protest.” The JEA had moved the whistle to the Southside Electric Generating Plant, where it continued to mark time the city’s metronome, its timepiece.
In 2001, Big Jim came home. The JEA shut the switch on the Southside Generating Station, opening up riverfront land for redevelopment, and moved Big Jim back to the old Waterworks Building. Now a “garage-size set of equipment” would move a rotor fast enough to shoot “shock waves through water.” Countless minuscule bubbles instantly form and pop and blast heat through the old copper windpipe.
By the time lightning struck Big Jim in 2012 and silenced him until 2013, Springfield had fallen back in love. “In Springfield,” says Kiley Secrest, “We love Big Jim. Everyone in the neighborhood uses it as an added guide for time. We’ve been hearing that same sound for over 100 years.”
Phillip Heilman had “never heard anything like it before moving to Springfield,” though it “provides a sense of timeliness to the day.” Often when Heilman hears Big Jim, he “spends a few moments considering people starting another day, breaking for lunch, or going home for the evening.”
Drew Edward Hunter says, “I. Love. Big. Jim! He’s one with Springfield. Long may he sound!” u
FREE AT LAST
In the late 17th century, astounding news reached Africans who were enslaved on British plantations in the Carolinas and Georgia. Freedom seekers who could complete the 300-mile journey to St. Augustine would be granted sanctuary by the Spanish government. The first freedom seekers—a group of eight men, two women and a nursing child—arrived in St. Augustine in 1686. To commemorate their journey and that of countless others who sought freedom in the Colonies and in what would become the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in what is now the United States, Fort Mose Historic State Park in St. Augustine, a 40-acre waterfront historic site, hosts its annual Flight to Freedom February 26-28. Visitors will experience reenactments of the journey of freedom seekers from 1687 through 1763, and learn about Spanish, African, and Native American food traditions, music, and culture from guest speakers and live presentations. Event hours are Thursday through Saturday, 9 AM-3 PM. Guided tours begin every 15 minutes. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated. u
This Old House
When built in 1909, the Drew Residence was a grand showplace, an architectural melange that turned heads along 3rd Street in Springfield. Today, the house retains little of its original grandeur, having fallen into disrepair over the decades. Springfield Preservation and Revitalization, the property’s new owner, aims to bring it back to life. “The Drew is quintessentially Springfield, historic, quirky and the front porch of Jacksonville,” says SPAR Board president Tyler Grant. “The way we have acquired the property and our plan to renovate it represent a novel approach to avoiding demolition by neglect and ensuring historic preservation that we hope will be replicable for our architectural treasures both in the Springfield community and throughout Jacksonville.” Plans call for the structure to be repurposed as a community center of sorts with public spaces and low-cost office space. A rehabilitation fund campaign has been launched to raise the money for the approximately $1.5 million project. u
NUMBER$ GAME
WHAT’S BEEN SELLING LATELY IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA. AND FOR HOW MUCH.
J It recently was announced that sales are underway at Greenbriar Landing at The Landings. Located in northern St. Johns County, the community offers single-family homes from the $400s on sites ranging from 50- to 65-feet. The one- and two-story homes vary from approximately 1,800 square feet to more than 4,300 including two- to six-bedroom and two- to six-bath floorplans. Five decorated models are open and move-in homes already available. Neighborhood amenities include an eight-acre community center (currently under construction) with clubhouse, pool, bark park, sports courts, event lawn, RV and boat storage and walking trails. A new Publix is about a twomile drive, as is the area’s newest 55+ community, Del Webb Saint Johns. u
Glamp It Up
WESTGATE RIVER RANCH IS WHERE LUXURY MEETS COWBOY COOL
Yippee Ki Yay, city slickers and weekend warriors! Ever wondered what happens when a luxury resort collides with an authentic ranch? Saddle up, partner—and make the three-hour trek to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. The sprawling Central Florida property is the wild and whimsical mash-up you’ve been dreaming of, and it’s ready to glamp your spurs off.
Nestled on 1,700 acres along the Kissimmee River in Polk County, Westgate’s glamping experience is all about embracing nature—without ditching your creature comforts. Imagine spacious canvas tents perched on platforms, fully furnished with hardwood floors, cozy king beds, A/C, heating, and even a kitchen-
ette. Each site sleeps up to four and comes with private bathroom facilities and a Personal Glamping Concierge who delivers morning coffee and a full breakfast, and lights your campfire nightly.
Want more glam? Try the Luxe Teepees with claw-foot tubs and fireplaces or hitch your family to a Luxe Conestoga Wagon, complete with VIP rodeo tickets in an arena that seats some 2,000 spectators on the weekend.
Roughing it? Nope, just ranch-style razzle-dazzle under Florida’s star-studded sky. Westgate River Ranch isn’t just about horses, although riding the range is amazing. The resort is a fullon frontier playground. Cheer at the Saturday
night rodeo, then hop on a swamp buggy for a mud-slinging adventure or glide across the Kissimmee River on an airboat. The “littles” will love the petting zoo and pony rides. If you’re there on a hot day don’t miss the cement pond—super fun water park with slides. The Cowboy Adventure Park is perfect for thrill seekers and includes a mechanical bull, zip line, rock-climbing wall, tractor races, bungee jumper, gold panning, and more. Cap it all off with a hayride BBQ under the stars, because nothing says ranch life like barbecue and cowboy tunes by the campfire.
Speaking of dining: Guests are welcome to bring their own grub. Or let someone else do the cooking and enjoy the hickory smoked
brisket and bourbon baked beans at Smokehouse on the River, or a 16 oz. ribeye at River Ranch Cattle Company Chophouse. There’s also a coffee house, a saloon, general store and a pizza parlor.
Westgate offers a rare combination—the thrill of rugged wilderness, the delight of pampered lodgings, and activity-packed fun that appeals to every family member. Whether you are toasting marshmallows by your tent, cheering the bull riders, or exploring the pastures on horseback, this Florida ranch delivers big on memories—and even bigger on charm. So, snag your cowboy hat, book your luxe tent, and prepare for glamping glory. Y’all don’t want to miss this. u
— Maggie
Look for more of Jax Maggie's travels in upcoming editions of Jacksonville Magazine.
Life's a Beach
Following a $100 million property-wide transformation, the Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne Miami reopened in December. The oceanside resort is spread across 17 acres and practically every corner of the property has been renovated, from the spa and fitness center to the culinary concepts. The most noticeable upgrade is the new open-air architecture providing uninterrupted views of the Atlantic and the indoor-outdoor vibe created by the lush tropical gardens. Six distinct beachfront dining and cocktail options range from Luma, a Mediterranean-inspired eatery serving modern Italian cuisine, grilled fish, handmade pastas and gelato, to the Dune Beach Bar serving sea-inspired small plates and breezy cocktails. The enormous spa features 16 treatment rooms, including three couples suites, private cabanas and a full-service salon. u
Considered one of Florida’s premier epicurean events, the seventh annual Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival returns January 19-25. Highlighted by a cadre of Michelin-recognized restaurants and James Beard-nominated chefs, the seven-day foodie fest sets the table for nearly a dozen distinctive dining experiences. Top chefs gather for Wok ’n Roll featuring Asian-inspired dishes and live music. Plus, there’s BBQ at the Beach, a night of barbecue favorites and friendly pitmaster competition. Save room for the Grand Tasting, the Saturday afternoon finale including more than 100 tasting stations and a cooking demonstration by celebrity chef Richard Blais. u
Rare Piece of Jacksonville History
1878 AVONDALE CIRCLE
3 BD | 4.4BA | 4876SQFT | 118FT River Frontage
A rare piece of Jacksonville history, set on one of Avondale’s most coveted riverfront parcels. Built in 1922 as the private residence of Avondale founder Telfair Stockton, this Mediterranean Revival estate seamlessly blends architectural legacy with timeless waterfront living. Tucked at the foot of a cul-de-sac, the property o ers 118 feet on the St. Johns River with sweeping downtown skyline views. Original millwork, preserved details, and five fireplaces reflect the home’s historic pedigree, while thoughtful updates—including an expansive kitchen—support modern living and entertaining. The residence features three bedrooms plus a flex room, four full baths and one half bath. Outdoors, enjoy a resort-style pool, private dock with covered boat lift, and a detached two-car garage with a one-bedroom carriage house. More than a home, this is an irreplaceable Avondale landmark.
Ladies First
THE UNFORTUNATE TRUTHS ABOUT WOMEN AND HEART DISEASE.
Over 60 million women (44%) in the United States are living with some form of heart disease. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States and can affect women at any age. In 2023, it was responsible for the deaths of 304,970 women— or about 1 in every 5 female deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Only about half of US women recognize that heart disease is their number 1 killer.
Sobering information, for sure. However, knowing the facts about heart disease—as well as the signs, symptoms and risk factors— can help you take steps to protect your health and seek proper treatment if you need it.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, and it’s exceptionally common in the country. More than 58.9 million women in the United States have high blood pressure (defined as 130/80 mm Hg or higher) or are taking blood pressure medicine. This includes almost 1 in 5 women of reproductive age. Having high blood pressure increases the risk
of developing heart disease and stroke and can lead to early death. High blood pressure is often under-diagnosed in women, and fewer than 1 in 4 women with high blood pressure have their condition under control.
Don’t stop reading just yet. There is good news and ways to prevent worst-case scenarios. First, know your blood pressure. Having uncontrolled blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and dementia. High blood pressure has no symptoms so it’s important to check your blood pressure regularly and report elevated readings to your health care team. Talk to your doctor about whether you should be tested for diabetes. Having uncontrolled diabetes raises your risk of heart disease.
“Women present to a cardiologist‘s office for many reasons. Sometimes it is because of an abnormal EKG, a strong family history, or an abnormality identified during a routine exam such as a murmur,” says Andrea DeNeen, MD, at First Coast Cardiovascular Institute. “Other times it is due to ongoing symptoms,
which may be palpitations, swelling, trouble, breathing, chest symptoms, which may be described as pressure or pain or discomfort, or inability to do the activities they’re normally able to do without issues.”
Acentury ago, so little was known about heart disease that people who had it resigned themselves to years of bed rest or, worse, an early death. Even less was known about how heart disease affected women—because nobody thought it did. Heart disease was considered a man's disease. If women had a role to play, it was in taking care of the men in their lives.
That attitude persisted throughout the 20th century, a time when questions about a woman's health were centered on the parts of her body under her bikini, says Dr. Gina Lundberg, clinical director of the Emory Woman's Heart Center and a professor at Emory University School of Medicine. ”It was, 'Get a pap smear and a mammogram and you're good,'" she says. "We left out all the things we were checking men for, like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. But between a woman's breasts and her reproductive organs is her heart."
Women were believed to have some natural protection from heart disease until their hormone levels dropped during menopause, Lundberg adds. After menopause, it was believed that hormone replacement therapy could prolong that protection, a premise since amended to apply only to women who take it during the early stages of this transition.
“Through education, the general population is recognizing heart disease is a disease that does not discriminate between sexes. Women may be surprised by their diagnosis because it has not made it into common knowledge that heart and blood vessel disease is so prevalent and much more likely to occur than cancer,” says Dr. DeNeen. “What I see more, however, is the surprise that heart disease and blood vessel disease are linked. I encourage patients to think of the vascular/blood vessel system as its own organ and that once problems develop in one area of the body, such as the heart, there is a good likelihood that issues can develop in any of the blood vessels of the body, including the neck, belly, or legs.”
Research shows women continue to be under-treated for cardiovascular problems compared to men. They are less likely to be treated for high cholesterol with statins, which have been shown to lower the risk for heart attacks and strokes. They also are less likely than men to be prescribed blood-thinning drugs to prevent or treat blood clots as treatment for atrial fibrillation, or AFib.
Other sex-specific risk factors that have come to light include starting menopause before age 40 and having endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, a hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries. Women also are more likely to have autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, that cause plaque to build up faster in their arteries and lead to worse outcomes following a heart attack or stroke.
As for better understanding differences in the ways heart disease develops in men and women, it's now known that atherosclerosis—the buildup of plaque in the arteries that leads to heart attacks and strokes—differs in the size of the plaque, where it is found and how vulnerable it may be to rupture. Women are more likely than men to have a heart attack caused by plaque erosion, spontaneous coronary artery dissection and problems other than an obstruction, while men are more likely to have heart attacks caused by rupturing plaque in their arteries. u
A new study from Mayo Clinic highlights the widespread impact of menopause symptoms on midlife women, and raises concerns that most are navigating this stage of life without medical care to help manage those challenges. The study was based on responses from nearly 5,000 women ages 45-60 who were surveyed across four Mayo Clinic primary care locations including Jax. More than 3 out of 4 respondents experienced menopause symptoms, with many reporting substantial effects on daily life.
More than one-third of women surveyed reported moderate to severe symptoms. Sleep disturbances and weight gain were among the most common issues mentioned by more than half of participants. Perhaps the most striking finding was that more than 80% did not seek medical attention for their menopause symptoms. While many women said they preferred to manage symptoms on their own, others said they were too busy or unaware that effective treatments exist.
“Menopause is universal for women at midlife, the symptoms are common and disruptive, and yet, few women are receiving care that could help them,” says lead author Ekta Kapoor, an endocrinologist and menopause specialist at Mayo. “This gap has real consequences for women’s health and quality of life, and it’s time we address it more proactively. By making it easier to recognize and understand symptoms, we can close the gap between need and care—and help midlife women live healthier, more fulfilling lives.” u
NAMES & FACES
Longtime Ponte Vedran and now White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles who generally shuns the spotlight, made “huuuge” headlines following the release of an extensive and unflattering profile in Vanity Fair magazine. One imagines it will be the last such article in which she’ll participate for a long time.
Congrats to Jaxson Billy Pitman , who recently won $1 million playing a Florida Lottery scratch-off game. He purchased the ticket at the Winn-Dixie on Beach Boulevard and elected to receive the lump-sum payment of $638,100.
No other name is more synonymous with Las Vegas than Mr. Las Vegas himself—Wayne Newton. Newton performs March 20 at the Ponte Vedra Concert. “Danke Schoen,” Wayne.
If you enjoyed the music this season, there is plenty more to come. Music Director Courtney Lewis signed a contract extension keeping him with the Jacksonville Symphony through June 2032. Bravo,
Kudos to Jaguars linebacker Foye Oluokun, who completed his sixth consecutive season with at least 100 total tackles. He is one of only six active players to accomplish this feat.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the film comedy Police Academy. Star Steve Guttenberg will present at a screening followed by a Q&A session March 12 at the Florida Theatre. Trivia question: How many total movies were made in the Police Academy franchise? More than you think. ^
Horsing Around
HOW JACKSONVILLE’S RIDING EXPERIENCES CAN SHAPE YOUR NEW YEAR
BY KAYLA BYRD
As we ride into the new year, we’re likely already considering how to achieve our goals to become better versions of ourselves. Some of us may start hitting the gym in pursuit of better health, we might be on the hunt for a new hobby that breaks us out of our comfort zone, or maybe after spending the holiday season bundled up indoors, we’re looking to get out of the house more. But what if there was a way to combine these resolutions into one activity?
There are endless opportunities across Northeast Florida to enjoy the beauty of the region from a new perspective. All it takes is the courage to mount the saddle. Though this is easier said than done, different enterprises have dedicated their efforts towards making horseback riding fun and accessible to all.
Horseback riding has so many physical and emotional benefits. Not only is it a great way to get out into the fresh air, work on core and leg strength, and improve posture, but it also lets you connect with a gentle and empathetic animal. While some people may find
it hard to believe that you can have a strong connection with a horse, Samantha Sykes, Program Director of H.O.R.S.E. Therapies Inc., knows that there is a real power in learning to ride. “Horses can really take the energy, the negative energy or the good energy, and are very good receptors of that. These horses just want to love on you and nurture you just as much as you want to nurture them.”
The Jacksonville Equestrian Center has utilized its adaptive therapeutic riding program to service the community by helping individuals who face emotional, physical, or cognitive challenges. This can include helping children who may use an accessibility device like a wheelchair, veterans struggling with PTSD, and mothers dealing with the emotional difficulties that come with being postpartum. “We tailor what those riders are working towards or their riding goals to what we can meet with their needs,” Samantha says. “A big thing that we work on with all of our students is being able to handle an animal of that size, especially on your own, [which] is a huge accomplishment.”
Along with the H.O.R.S.E. Therapies non-profit program, the Jacksonville Equestrian Center also hosts an ongoing calendar of events and shows. With each show focusing on different disciplines to show off proficiency in skills like riding, jumping, roping, and so much more, audiences can fall in love with the sport and get to know trainers. It’s the perfect way to become more interested in the equestrian world as most of their weekend events are free and open to the public.
To experience more gorgeous views while still meeting your resolutions, rides can be scheduled through several of the other local outfits offering guided excursions. One of the most unique escapades comes from the beaches of Amelia Island.
“You can do trail rides anywhere. You can go on mountain rides, trail rides, but beach rides are far and few between,” Deby, a guide from Amelia Island Horseback Riding, notes. Though our region can’t offer rides down a winding mountain path, we get an experience that is incomparable. During one of the hour-
long rides along Amelia Island’s coast, you’ll breathe in the fresh and salty air as the lull of the crashing waves creates a feeling of serenity. The best part of all is taking in the stunning sights of the sunrise or sunset (depending on what time you decide to book) reflecting off the shimmering waves as you lead your horse down the shore.
Guides like Deby make sure you’re comfortable and safe, all while snapping beautiful pictures to share with friends and family. They ensure that the ride is memorable for years to come, while also going out of their way to maintain the safety of the horses and the upkeep of the property.
If you’re not ready to face your resolutions alone, ranches like Diamond D offer trail rides that can support groups. Those looking to bring their best friend or even their extended family for moral support can head down to the ranch to enjoy different trail ride experiences, from a one-hour ride to half-day excursions. As a family owned and operated organization since the 1950s, Diamond D gives riders a more rustic feel. Moseying down their dirt trails gives one a tour of the 500-acre property, passing by cattle, emus, deer, and goats. It’s the perfect way to feel unplugged as your horse lets you take in the views of the fields at an easy pace.
“I would say that it's definitely something you should do at least once in your life, take you out of your comfort zone,” Diamond D’s guide Siera Wing happily shares about riding. “It's really just good for your soul, really good for relaxing and just getting out with family and friends, and having a good time, especially here at our barn. All of our horses are top notch.”
As you plan to take hold of the reins of your life and shape your new year with new resolutions in mind, you can take the first steps by grabbing the reins of a friendly equine friend. u
At the start of last year, a new Florida law took effect banning children under age 14 from having their own social media accounts. The Online Protections for Minors law officially went into effect in February. However, legal challenges were filed and a judge put the effort on hold as it worked through the appeals process. In addition to the ban on kids under the age of 14, key provisions of the law say 14 and 15 year olds must have a parent’s or guardian’s permission to have an account. Also, social media sites must verify the ages of users and users under 18 will be blocked from accessing “materials harmful to minors.” Opponents of the law claim it restricts minors’ access to constitutionally protected speech.
In late November, a federal appeals court disagreed that the law was unconstitutional, which lifted an order preventing state officials from enforcing the new rules. No doubt, more court challenges will arise; however, the idea of limiting kids’ access to social media is gaining momentum, as seen in recently passed laws in liberal countries such Australia and Denmark. u
EASY BEING GREEN
College can be full of stressors. Deadlines, pressure to ace exams, changing social groups and the looming fears of securing a job after graduation may all lead students to feel exhausted, frazzled and anxious. What if part of the solution for taking the edge off is as simple as soil, sunlight and water?
A new study from University of Florida researchers found that the therapeutic horticulture program not only helped reduce students’ overall stress—it also increased their academic resilience, which could lead to better performance in class. The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, examined groups of University of Florida students over three semesters to evaluate their stress before and after doing therapeutic horticulture activities, such as caring for potted plants and doing paired mindfulness activities.
“We want to help students recognize the relationship between nature and their personal wellness,” says Leah Diehl, program director and UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/ IFAS) faculty. “We hope they’ll use these strategies for their entire life—in their careers and family lives—not just while they're a student in the university.”
Students paired a horticulture activity like propagating plant cuttings with a wellness strategy such as gratitude or mindfulness, with the goal of reducing stress and anxiety. Most of the students who participated in this program found that after the program was finished, they felt they had more academic resilience, perseverance, help-seeking skills, fewer negative emotions and less overall perceived stress.
Stress and mental health challenges are persistent obstacles for college students, many studies have found. In fact, a 2024 State of Higher Education Report stated that one in three enrolled college students had considered dropping out, and of that number, 64% said it was due to emotional stress or mental health. u
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Private Schools OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS HAVE NEVER BEEN BETTER. From expanding private school enrollment to new charter and traditional public schools opening, the choices are plentiful. Featured on the following pages are profiles of some of the region’s leading K-12 schools, as well as a handy chart detailing more than a dozen categories for comparison, from sports to test scores. Now, do your homework and find the right fit for your child.
Select Northeast Florida Private & Public Schools
Circle of Hope School 1095 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd., 32206 904-627-7276 circleofhopeschool.org
Collage Day School
NOTE: School details posted here are subject to change. Parents are encouraged to confirm all information. We attempted to verify the chart by contacting all of the schools listed. Questions we were not able to confirm were left blank. • Updated January 2026
$10,500-$22,125 by appointment rolling enrollment varies N/A N/A N/A N/A COGNIA by appointment rolling admissions
$14,950-$25,200 FCIS, NAIS see sjcds.net/visit rolling admissions 12:1
Tradition. Excellence. Faith. BISHOP KENNY HIGH SCHOOL
“And do not choose to be conformed to this age, but instead choose to be reformed in the newness of your mind, so that you may demonstrate what is the will of God: what is good, and what is well-pleasing, and what is perfect.” – Romans 12:2
Bishop Kenny High School has guided students in forming their minds, strengthening their faith, and discovering who they are called to be for more than 74 years. Rooted in Gospel values, we prepare Crusaders to live with conviction and integrity, encouraging them to grow through study, service, leadership, and grace. The journey each student begins here is one of transformation, where faith informs action and learning inspires purpose.
Founded in 1952, our beautiful 55-acre campus remains a place where Catholic tradition shapes daily life. With more than 17,000 student, faculty, staff, and alumni members, the Bishop Kenny community continues to thrive as we evolve, while the heart of the BK experience remains constant: excellent academics, meaningful service, a dynamic student life, and an unwavering focus on prayer, Mass, and spiritual formation.
Students may choose from 26 Advanced Placement courses, including the AP Capstone Diploma Program, and explore a wide range of performing and practical arts. Bishop Kenny also offers 40 STEM courses that engage students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Innovative learning spaces support
this work, including a medical school-level Anatomage Table, a collaborative makerspace for robotics, and the Demetree Learning Commons, which provides digital resources, 3D printing, and a student help desk. BK has also been named an Apple Distinguished School for 2024–2027, becoming the first high school in Northeast Florida to earn this distinction for visionary use of technology in teaching and learning.
Nearly every student engages in one of our 50 clubs, and more than half compete on athletic teams, carrying their leadership, commitment, and sportsmanship into every area of their BK journey. From their freshman Mass to their graduation Mass, everything in between shapes the Crusaders they become. As we look to the future, Bishop Kenny remains committed to helping students deepen their faith, live with purpose, and carry their values confidently into the world.
AT THE BOLLES SCHOOL, EXCELLENCE IS THE FOUNDATION OF EVERY ASPECT OF THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE, preparing learners for futures filled with limitless opportunities.
Founded in 1933, The Bolles School is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school with four campuses and more than 1,800 students from Pre-K through Grade 12, all of whom are inspired to explore boldly, think critically and lead with empathy. From rigorous academics and championship athletics to vibrant arts programs and global learning experiences, Bolles students are encouraged to discover their passions and pursue them with confidence.
A shining example of the School’s commitment to immersive, hands-on learning is the Frank R. Sanchez & Hope and Dana E. Fender Center for Innovation, which opened last fall on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus. This three-story, 47,000-squarefoot facility houses the School’s science, math and technology programs, offering expansive spaces for advanced courses in robotics, computer programming, information technology, engineering and design.
Just as Bolles fosters innovation in learning, it also cultivates a global perspective through its diverse student population. Students represent 74 countries and speak 25 languages, bringing a wealth of perspectives to campus life. The Resident Life Program, which includes boarding students from 40 countries and 14 states, adds depth to the day student body’s culturally rich environment. In the 2026-27 school year, the program will grow to double the girls’ boarding capacity through a dorm expansion project made possible by the Gund family.
Academically, Bolles offers courses in five world languages and 32 Advanced Placement courses, guided by expert faculty who spark intellectual engagement and help students uncover their unique interests and academic strengths. The School’s comprehensive fine and performing arts program provides courses in drama, dance, visual arts, chorus, music and band. Among middle and upper school students, 70 percent enrolled in fine and performing arts classes this year, while 100 percent of lower school students are involved in art, music and theater instruction.
Athletics at Bolles are world-renowned, with 27 sports in middle school and upper school. Bolles Swimming has been represented at every Olympics since 1972, with a total of 67 Bolles students, former students and Bolles Sharks competing over the years. Bolles’ Olympic history now includes 15 medalists, winning a total of 36 medals – including 21 gold.
At Bolles, students benefit from an All Things Possible approach to learning. With a foundation in courage, integrity and compassion, they are empowered to realize their potential and embrace the limitless opportunities ahead. Whether in the classroom, on the stage or on the field, Bolles students are prepared not just for college – but for a life of purpose, leadership and impact.
7400 SAN JOSE BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32217
(904) 256-5030
BOLLES.ORG
EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE
A
Portrait of Potential
WITH THREE CAMPUSES LOCATED ACROSS NORTHEAST FLORIDA, only Episcopal School of Jacksonville is able to serve students and families through every phase of their academic journey, from age one through 12th grade. We are a community where students benefit from our rigorous curriculum, vibrant fine arts offerings, outstanding athletic programs, diverse extracurricular programs, small class sizes, and exceptional faculty; the global community benefits from the contributions and leadership of our graduates.
Episcopal School of Jacksonville prepares students for success in college and beyond by delivering a unique balance across Four Pillars — Academics, Athletics, Spiritual Life, and Fine Arts. An Episcopal graduate lives into his or her potential by becoming a well-rounded individual who seeks understanding, develops a sense of self, lives with honor and purpose, and pursues a life of faith. We invite you to visit one of our three campuses to learn more:
Grades 6-12 on the Munnerlyn Campus, located at 4455 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32207. Phone: (904) 396-5751
Grades Pre-K 3-Grade 5 on the Beaches Campus, located at 1150 N 5th Street, Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250. Phone: (904) 246-2466
Age 1-Grade 5 on the St. Mark’s Campus, located at 4114 Oxford Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32210. Phone: (904) 388-2632
396-5751 • ESJ.ORG
Boldly Christian, Unquestionably Academic PROVIDENCE SCHOOL
SINCE ITS OPENING OVER 28 YEARS AGO, PROVIDENCE HAS DEVELOPED INTO one of the premier private Christian schools in Northeast Florida. It is one of a few schools in the area th at offers a seamless education from preschool through 12th grade, incorporating college-preparatory academics, an awardwinning fine arts program, and a championship FHSAA athletic program. Providence, as a Christ-centered community, is deeply committed to its Christian mission, which demonstrates God’s love in ways we serve the community through local outreach, global missions trips, weekly chapel services, spiritual retreats, Bible classes, and daily prayer.
Motivated by a challenging academic experience, our program offers College Preparatory, Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, or Honors programs to prepare students for the next level of academic achievement. Our distinguished faculty and staff model their Christian values inside and outside the classroom. They purposefully create interactive environments that promote student engagement. Our college counselors work one-on-one with
students to help them discover God’s unique plan for their lives, establish good college matches, and identify potential lifelong careers. For the last several years, our graduates have received 100% college acceptance, and in 5 years, our graduates have been offered over $46 million in college scholarships. We’d love to show you why Providence is more than just a school; we are a family! To learn more, go to www.prov.org or call 904-223-5270 to schedule a campus visit.
Riverside’s Mission: Educate the mind, nurture the spirit & foster the development of the whole child.
FOR OVER 75 YEARS, RIVERSIDE PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL HAS had a passion for foundational childhood education that uniquely lays the building blocks for a lifetime of learning. Riverside’s mission is to educate the mind, nurture the spirit, and foster the development of the whole child. Our educational program reflects this commitment and is designed to build knowledgeable, well-rounded, critically thinking individuals who respect the differences of others in preparation for life in a global community.
Riverside provides a child-centered learning environment for PreK 3 through 6th Grade students that is dedicated to imagination and wonder. Our talented faculty shares a challenging academic program, designed to unwrap the joy of learning through discovery and reflection. Our students learn to value and respect the unique qualities inherent within themselves. We invite you to visit our campus and explore your future at Riverside.
Beginning in September, we invite prospective families to join us for events across campus including: Parent Tours, weekly Chapel services, School Plays, Rams on the Rise events, and more. In the meantime, we encourage you to explore how our Rams are collaborating, creating, and leading by visiting our website, rpds.com.
COLLAGE DAY SCHOOL
Whole child approach to learning
COLLAGE DAY SCHOOL IS AN EDUCATIONALLY DYNAMIC INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL in the Palm Valley area of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Serving students aged 3 months through 8th grade, Collage provides your child a safe and beautiful environment that develops not just their love of learning, but their eagerness to explore and understand the natural world. By combining evidence-based academic programming with a wealth of socioemotional resources, Collage sets the foundation for your child to engage with the world as a wellrounded lifelong learner.
At Collage, our primary objective is to equip your child with the skills and confidence to excel in any classroom they encounter, ensuring they leave our school feeling capable and self-assured. To achieve this, we utilize an educational methodology grounded in standards-based academics, ageappropriate social skill development, and project-based learning opportunities across our entire setting. At Collage, our dedicated staff brings a rich tapestry of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and teaching styles to our school community. What unites them is a shared passion for our holistic approach to education, which nurtures the whole child. We embrace and celebrate diversity, encourage curiosity, and foster creativity from our youngest to our oldest students.
THE COVENANT SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE
Come discover the Covenant difference firsthand.
THE COVENANT SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE IS A CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL in Northeast Florida committed to equipping students with knowledge, wisdom, virtue, and joy. Since 2009, The Covenant School of Jacksonville has partnered with like-hearted and like-minded families to provide their students with the finest education and is the first private school in Florida, and one of the first ten private schools in the nation, to be a licensed user of Hillsdale K-12 curriculum. Located on nearly 30 acres adorned with majestic oaks in Jacksonville, Florida, Covenant’s campus is a safe, state-of-the-art, beautiful picture of God’s glory where students, Preschool through Grade 12, reach their full potential to fulfill God’s plan for their lives.
BARTRAM ROAD, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32207
THE DISCOVERY SCHOOL
Discover the greatness in your child.
FOUNDED IN 1990, THE DISCOVERY SCHOOL IS A DYNAMIC INDEPENDENT SCHOOL located in Jacksonville Beach serving children ages 18 months through 8th grade. Your child’s educational path starts in an authentic Montessori classroom and advances to a globally recognized program, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme starting at age 3. Its student-centered approach to education reflects the best of educational research, thought leadership, and experience. Our Vision is to cultivate an inclusive and vibrant community that promotes knowledge, creativity, independent thinking, and mutual respect. When we meld imagination with compassion and academic excellence, there is no limit to what our students can achieve.
ST. JOHNS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
You belong here.
PRIVATE SCHOOL EDUCATION IS CLOSER — AND MORE ACCESSIBLE — THAN YOU THINK. If your child is getting lost in the crowd, it’s time for something different. At St. Johns Country Day School, we combine small class sizes with big opportunities — so every child is known, supported, and encouraged to thrive in a safe, nurturing environment.
• Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 12 together on one campus
• Florida School Choice Scholarships (FES-EO/FTC) are accepted
• Bus service available
• Call (904) 264-9572 or visit sjcds.net to schedule a tour
ADMISSIONS@THEDISCOVERYSCHOOL.ORG
CIRCLE OF HOPE SCHOOL
Invest Early. Grow Boldly.
CIRCLE OF HOPE SCHOOL GOES BEYOND TRADITIONAL DAYCARE. We are a program rooted in over 40 years of early childhood expertise through Lutheran Services Florida. Here, your child receives high-quality education, social-emotional development and holistic support in a safe, engaging environment. Our teachers are passionate, experienced and deeply committed to helping every child thrive. Rolling admissions for the 2025-2026 school year are now open. Visit circleofhopeschool.org to schedule a tour or apply today.
1095 A. PHILLIP RANDOLPH BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32206
904-627-7276
WWW.CIRCLEOFHOPESCHOOL.ORG
GREENWOOD SCHOOL
AT GREENWOOD SCHOOL, WE RECOGNIZE THAT NO TWO STUDENTS are the same and neither are their learning needs. Teachers’ use research-based, multi-sensory instructional methods to focus on students’ strengths in and out of the classroom. Across all academic subjects, Greenwood offers interactive and collaborative classroom technology specifically helpful for students’ learning differences. Opportunities for advanced coursework, guidance based Social Emotional Learning courses, and a broad range of extracurricular pursuits are also provided.
Greenwood School is situated within a remarkable natural environment. Thirteen acres of protected wetlands, featuring an observation tower, and outdoor classroom area, provide ample opportunities for outdoor learning. These are further complemented by a STEAM lab, our dock, and outdoor garden space, supporting a comprehensive and distinctive Environmental Sciences program. Students actively utilize these outdoor facilities through partnerships with professional environmental and conservation organizations, as well as universities.
9920 REGENCY SQUARE BLVD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32225
PH (904) 726-5000
FAX (904) 726-5056 GREENWOODJAX.ORG
THE FOUNDATION ACADEMY
Where Learning Comes Alive and Who You Become Matters
FOUNDED IN 1988, THE FOUNDATION ACADEMY OFFERS a transformative educational experience rooted in creativity, inquiry, and personal growth. Our approach is anything but conventional — here, learning is a dynamic, hands-on journey that adapts to each student’s unique style and sparks their innate curiosity. Through standards-driven research, students design meaningful projects and presentations that deepen their understanding and showcase their voice. Collaborative group discourse and thoughtful teacher feedback cultivate not only academic mastery but the confidence to teach others what they’ve learned — a true mark of internalized knowledge. Academics are enriched through musical theatre performances, 2D,3D,Fiber,Ceramic, and Digital arts programs, community service work, multiple academic field trips, and campus wide events.
3675 SAN PABLO RD S, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32224
904-493-7300
WWW.FOUNDATIONACADEMY.COM
JACKSONVILLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
THROUGH INTELLECTUAL EXPLORATION ACROSS OUR 19-ACRE campus in the convenient Southside area of Jacksonville, children in Pre-K 3 through 5th grade are engaged in a transformative learning experience at Jacksonville Country Day School. Strengthened by a supportive and nurturing community of educators, peers, and parents, JCDS students are taught how to approach learning with creativity, perseverance, and confidence so that they are prepared for success at the next academic level and beyond. Call or visit JCDS online to schedule a virtual tour and discover all that our school has to offer.
THE MANDALA SCHOOL
Tailored for Students Who Learn Differently
AT THE MANDALA SCHOOL, WE ACKNOWLEDGE THAT EVERY STUDENT HAS A UNIQUE LEARNING STYLE. This understanding drives our teachers to create vibrant and engaging learning environments. Our educators specialize in remediation through personalized and differentiated instruction. Our multi-sensory classrooms captivate students, regardless of their learning preferences—be it visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. Our students interact with stimulating course material, hands-on learning opportunities, and enriching co-curricular activities that mold and nurture their diverse interests and talents.
IF IT’S AN EDUCATION, AN INSPIRATION, A PLACE FOR INSIGHT AND GROWTH. When it fuels high achievement, nurtures compassion and teaches the value of both.
IF IT PRIZES CURIOSITY, INSTILLS GENEROSITY AND HIGHLIGHTS ETHICAL LIVING. When it showcases tradition, puts community first and stresses the importance of giving.
IF IT PIONEERS INNOVATION, WELCOMES WARM CELEBRATION AND ALLOWS STUDENTS TO TAKE FLIGHT. When it offers support, builds fast friendships for life and lets every person shine bright.
THE MISSION OF SEACOAST IS TO PROVIDE A STUDENTCENTERED EDUCATION, focusing on the whole child. We want our students to develop a true love for learning by creating a positive learning environment with innovative technology and high-quality education, focused on an arts-integrated, handson curriculum with the overall goal of giving our elementary students a lifetime appreciation of learning and the development of their unique talents and abilities.
Call to schedule a tour to see what makes us different.
THE TO-DO LIST
NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA
The Players Championship
MARCH 10-15
What’s annually believed to be the strongest field in golf gathers once again at TPC Sawgrass and the Stadium Course. More than 140 of the world’s best golfers test their skills and work their way through Pete Dye’s rolling fairways, sand traps and water, water everywhere. Rory McIlroy, who secured his second Players title by defeating J.J. Spaun in a three-hole playoff, claiming a $4.5 million prize, returns to defend his title.
Rory McIlroy
JANUARY
MUSIC
Jacksonville Symphony
Love them, laugh at them or sing along— some love songs are too good to resist. The Jacksonville Symphony and a lineup of powerhouse guest vocalists present a night of unforgettable No. 1 hits from the past 50 years. Silly Love Songs: McCartney, Cher, Whitney & More is presented for three concerts January 30, 11 AM and 7:30 PM, and January 31, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $32-$92.
FEBRUARY
THEATER
Menopause: The Musical
The longest running scripted musical in Las Vegas history, this parody set to the music of the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s may have you dancing in your seats. Have dinner and watch as four women make you laugh hard enough to forget about your hot flashes, through February 15 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $73-$84.
THEATER
Carmen
Carmen tells a passionate story of love, jealousy, and betrayal. The George Bizet opera follows Don José, a soldier who is seduced by the fiery gypsy factory-girl Carmen. Teatro Lirico D’Europa presents this full-scale production featuring traditional European-designed sets and costumes, an international cast, and vibrant dancers. Performed in the original French with English supertitles February 1, 3 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $38-$73.
SPORTS Jacksonville Icemen
Winter in Jax means ice hockey. And the Icemen’s home schedule is packed this month, with games versus the Savannah Ghost Pirates, Kansas City Mavericks and South Carolina Stingrays February 1, 3, 11, 14, and 28. First puck drops at 7 PM inside VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $68-$171.
TV
2026 Milan Cortina Olympics
The Winter Olympics competition opens February 4 with Mixed Doubles Curling. The
Opening Ceremony isn’t until Friday, February 6, 8:30 PM on NBC. Downhill skiing, ice skating, bobsled and other snowy sports continue through February 22.
DANCE
Riverdance 30: The New Generation
To celebrate the 30th year milestone, Riverdance embarked on a special anniversary tour, bringing its magic to audiences around the world. This production rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new choreography and costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series February 5, 7:30 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $55-$150.
EXHIBITION Out of Place
For this exhibit, members of the St. Augustine Art Association are asked to create images that question the normal, that push the boundaries of what “should” be and build a world of acceptance, letting go of apprehension. On display February 6 through March 1, 22 Marine Street Gallery.
MUSIC
Nine Inch Nails
The Peel It Back Tour launched back in the summer of last year with a successful run across Europe and the UK, featuring shows in Dublin, London, Paris, Madrid and more. Trent and the band then brought the next-level production to North America with shows spanning across the country, including nights in Brooklyn, Chicago, and Los Angeles, and Jax February 7, 8 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $466-$380.
TV
Super Bowl LX
As we write this in early December, we can’t say which two teams will make it all the way to the Super Bowl. But the Jacksonville Jaguars were riding high in first places of the AFC South Division. Unfortunately, the season ended with a playoff loss. The game kicks off Sunday, February 8. 6:30 PM, in San Francisco.
THEATRE
Mrs. Doubtfire
Everyone’s favorite cross-dressing Scottish nanny is headed to Jacksonville in a “feel-good, family friendly comedy that delivers”—or so says The Hollywood Reporter. Based on the Robin Williams and Sally Field comedy, it’s “the lovable, big-hearted musi-
Jacksonville Icemen
cal comedy we need right now”—or so says the Chicago Tribune. Multiple shows by FSCJ Artist Series February 10-15 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts
FILM
Gale: Yellow Brick Road
Dorothy, now an elderly woman haunted by her past, tries to warn her granddaughter Emily before dark forces pull her into Oz, a once familiar land now twisted by horrors. Starring Chloe Crump, Laura Kay Bailey and Hassan Taj. In theaters February 11
MUSIC
The Queens: 4 Legends, 1 Stage
We’re going to need a bigger stage. For the first time, Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills come together for an evening of soaring hits, ballads and dance tracks February 12, 8 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $91-$427.
DANCE
Swing, Swing, Swing
This evening staged by the Florida Ballet features two world premieres: Idylle, a new creation that explores the poetry of movement, love and connection, and Vernalagnia, a vibrant work, evoking themes of romance, rebirth, and emotional awakening tied to the season’s arrival, February 13, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $56-$76.
MUSIC
Avi Avital
The Viano String Quartet returns to take part in the Beaches Fine Arts Series with famed mandolin artist Avi Avital, a driving force behind the reinvigoration of the mandolin repertory, February 13, 7:30 PM, at St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, Jacksonville Beach, free.
MUSIC
Jacksonville Symphony
Experience a musical journey through the greatest love stories ever told. Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy captures the passion and tragedy of young love, while the ballet music from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet brings Shakespeare’s drama to life with fiery energy and dark foreboding. Romeo and Juliet: Tchaikovsky & Bernstein is presented February 13 and 14, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $33-$92.
EXHIBITION
Art in Bloom
Coinciding with the height of the spring season, “Art in Bloom” celebrates how today’s artists are expanding the boundaries of floral art far beyond historic still-life paintings. Works from the Cummer’s Museum of Art’s permanent collection and exciting loans from contemporary artists create a dynamic exploration of this well-known style. On display February 13 through September 13
COMEDY
Kathy Griffin
Perhaps best known for her standup comedy bits, hosting CNN’s New Year’s Eve celebration broadcast with Anderson Cooper for ten years, and really, really hating Donald Trump, Griffin brings her “New Face: New Tour” (a really, really new face) comedy show to Jax February 15, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $64-$106.
THEATER
Cirque FLIP Fabrique Blizzard
Hailing from Québec City, Cirque FLIP Fabrique is a troupe founded by a group of friends who are at the peak of their talents as professional circus artists. Blizzard is the story of a group of friends, each one different from the other, like snowflakes, exploring the awe and wonder of a winter storm, staged February 18, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $44-$102.
MUSIC
Love Me Tender Live!
Actor/singer/songwriter Ted Torres Martin is recognized as one of the top Elvis tribute acts going today. Don’t take our word for it. So says Elvis Presley Enterprises. Martin is the King of Rock & Roll for a limited run, February 18-22, at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $89 with three-course dinner included.
SPORTS
PBR: Unleash the Beast
The premier bull riding tour, featuring the world’s top 40 riders competing against elite bulls for points, prize money, and the coveted World Championship title with a $1 million bonus, stampedes into town February 20 and 21, 7:45 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $44-$203.
MUSIC
Jacksonville Symphony
From the golden age of Broadway to the silver screen, the timeless collaborations of Richard Rodgers’ music with the lyrics of Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein have shaped the soundtrack of American musical theater. Join the Jacksonville Symphony and guest vocalists for an evening of unforgettable melodies, from the romantic charm of “My Funny Valentine” to the sweeping grandeur of “Some Enchanted Evening” February 20, 11 AM and 7:30 PM, and February 21, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $33-$96.
COMEDY
Nate Bargatze
Few stand-up acts can fill an arena. Bargatze can and does. Hailed as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” by The Atlantic Magazine, and “One of the Funniest People,” by CBS Mornings, Grammy and Emmy-nominated comedian, author, podcaster, director and producer Nate Bargatze is selling out shows and breaking venue attendance records with more than 1.2 million tickets sold during one tour. See him here February 26, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $61-$310.
MUSIC Pink Martini
Featuring a dozen musicians, with songs in 25 languages, Pink Martini performs its multilingual repertoire on concert stages around the globe. After making its European debut at the Cannes Film Festival in 1997 and its orchestral debut with the Oregon Symphony in 1998, the band has rarely stopped playing, and returns to Jax February 27 , 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $52-$80.
MUSIC
Il Divo
The multinational classical crossover vocal quartet formed in the United Kingdom in 2003, Il Divo (meaning the “divine one” or a “divine male performer” has attracted legions of fans—mostly women—worldwide. They sing classics as well as covers of more contemporary songs like “Unchained Melody” and “The Time of Our Lives” February 26, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $53-$94.
Gale: Yellow Brick Road
PBR: Unleash the Beast
SPORTS First Responders Fight Night
St. Johns County firefighters and deputies lace up their gloves and leave it all in the ring in this second annual pugilistic battle between first responders. The first bell rings at 6 PM, on Thursday, February 26, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. The event is a benefit for Special Olympics Florida and the Diamond of Dreams, $24-$179.
THEATER
Damn Yankees
In this Broadway classic musical comedy, Joe Boyd’s favorite baseball team isn’t winning. So, he makes a deal with a mysterious man to become young again and help the Yankees win the pennant. Not everything goes as planned. Staged February 26-April 5 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $73-$84.
MUSIC
Jacksonville Children’s Chorus
Join the JCC and special Guests for the 17th annual Martin Luther King Jr. “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” concert, a celebration honoring the Civil Rights icon and commemorating Black History Month February 28, 2 PM, at Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church.
MUSIC
Styx
Like a symphony that builds to a satisfying crescendo, a Styx set covers a wide range of stylistic cornerstones—from the progressively sweeping splendor that is “The Grand Illusion” to the hunker-down fortitude of all that is the “Blue Collar Man,” from the regal reach-for-the-stars bravado of “Come Sail Away.” With special guest Cheap Trick February 28, 7 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $66-$213.
EXHIBITION
Jiha Moon: Half Moon
South Korean Jiha Moon is a contemporary visual artist with a multifaceted practice ranging from gestural paintings, ceramic sculptures, and installations.
Continued on page 60
Damn Yankees
Seen
The 11th annual DTJAX Awards were held November 13 at The Lark in the heart of Downtown. The event celebrates the people, businesses and projects that make a difference and improve the living and working experience in the city’s urban center. Among this year’s honorees were Trai Robinson and Bryan Moll, as well as the Greenhouse & Bar, named Small Business of the Year, and Pour Taproom and Pizza Dynamo, Retail Project of the Year. u
COMING SOON:
• The United Way of Northeast Florida hosts is second annual Champions of Change on February 13 at Emerald Station in the Phoenix Arts District. The event recognizes individuals and corporations that make a commitment to positive community impact. In addition to honoring the year’s “Champions,” guest can expect food, music and dancing. $60 per person, $400 for a table of eight.
• Aussie wildlife advocate and newly crowned Dancing With the Stars champ Robert Irwin is the special guest for Toast to Conservation , taking place February 10 at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Guests receive a first look at the zoo’s new SkyScape and Manatee River Habitat. Dances with Irvin not included in ticket purchases.
Though it’s already among the most attended performance venues in the country (welcoming over 184,000 patrons annually), there’s always room for more at the historic Florida Theatre. The downtown landmark helped ring in the new year as it hosted an open house celebration the evening of January 8. Fans, supporters and guests were invited to mingle and explore the nearly 100-yearold theatre, as well as enjoy food and drinks across three levels and the stage. u
She draws from a wide range of influences, including Eastern and Western art histories, Korean temple paintings and folk traditions, popular culture, Internet emojis and icons, and product packaging from around the world. Her exhibition “Half Moon” is on display February 29 through August 23 at MOCA Jacksonville.
MARCH
MUSIC
An Evening With Toto
Following this past summer’s tour with Christopher Cross and Men At Work, Toto stages a tour presenting the band’s “An Evening With” performance. Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams have curated a new set list for this excursion featuring more than two hours of music March 2, 8 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $60-$150.
AUTOS
The Amelia Concours
Legendary IndyCar driver Dario Franchitti is this year’s Concours d’Elegance honoree, alongside classic car shows, auctions of prized vehicles, seminars, cocktail parties and more. The week’s grand event on Saturday showcases more than 250 rare autos—Mercedes, Duesenberg, Ferrari, Corvette, race cars and other exotic collectibles—which are assembled from pri-
vate collections around the world. The cars roll March 5-9, at the Golf Club of Amelia and The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
TV
World Baseball Classic
20 teams from around the globe square off March 5-17, with the semi-final and final games being played in Miami. Already committed for Team USA are Aaron Judge, Paul Skenes, Kyle Schwarber and Tarik Skubal. USA!, USA!
MUSIC
New York Voices
Beaches Fine Arts Series collaborates with the UNF Great American Jazz Series to bring the exciting vocal ensemble to Jax March 5, 7:30 PM, Lazzara Performance Hall, UNF campus, free.
ARTS
Women Arts Exchange
This annual event is a celebration of the innovative and bold women in local arts, bringing together visual art, performance art, and live music. Happening in two halves—an art gallery and sip-and-stroll followed by a live dance performance March 6 and 7 at Players by the Sea and the Beaches Museum.
SPORT
Gate River Run
Thousands of pairs of running shoes take
to the streets of Downtown Jax, San Marco and St. Nicholas for the annual 15K, the largest such race in the nation. Known for its challenging pace and route over two bridges, the Gate saw nearly 14,000 runners in 2025. This year’s race week is set for March 5-7, with the big race starting Saturday morning at 8 AM. On your marks…
THEATRE
Moulin Rouge: The Musical
Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory as Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series March 10-15, 8 shows, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $50-$142.
Continued on page 63
Moulin Rouge: The Musical
CAST YOUR BALLOT FOR THE Best in Jax 2026
Take this opportunity to vote for your favorites in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches. Winners will be published in the May edition. To make the cut, ballots must be received by March 15. So, get voting before it’s too late! You may only cast ONE ballot. Votes will not be counted if the ballot is not signed and dated. No copies of this form or faxes will be accepted. Who has a fax machine these days, anyway?
Annual Charity Gala ___________________________________
Art Museum __________________________________________
Community Theatre ___________________________________
New Restaurant (Amelia Island) ____________________________
New Restaurant (Jacksonville) ____________________________
New Restaurant ( St. Augustine) _____________________________
Your Name email address
Signature _________________________________________________________________________ Date ___________________________
THEATRE
Dirty Dancing in Concert
Relive the film that stole the hearts of generations in a unique live-to-film concert that features the original film projected in full, accompanied by a live band and singers performing all the songs from the soundtrack March 13, 7:30 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $37-$101.
MUSIC
Motown Meets Rock
The heart of the Motown Era and the energy of rock come together in one powerhouse concert. Emmy and Grammy-nominated, award-winning songstress N’Kenge returns to Jacksonville to lead a night of unforgettable music, backed by the full force of the Jacksonville Symphony March 13 and 14, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $32-$92.
COMEDY
Whose Live Anyway?
A live comedy show featuring 90 minutes of hilarious improvised laughs and song based on audience suggestions. Cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray are geniuses for inventing scenes at the spur of the moment and audience participation is key to the show—so bring your suggestions and you might be asked to join the cast onstage March 19, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $70-$85.
FILM
Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man
During World War II, Tommy Shelby returns to a bombed Birmingham and becomes involved in secret wartime missions based on true events, facing new threats as he reckons with his past and rising national stakes. Starring Cillian Murphy, Rebecca Ferguson and Sammy Heaney. Expected premier March 20
SPORTS Cosmic Baseball
The Tri-City Chili Peppers play their own brand of baseball, namely they like to play at night and in the dark. The squad rolled into the River City last year and played to a sold-out crowd at VyStar Ballpark. They return for two games versus the Glow Mojis March 20 and 21, Tickets? You have to
register online for a lottery to receive the chance to go. Good luck.
OPERA
The
Mikado
Performed as originally produced, complete with Japanese fans and kimonos, the timeless comedy features Sir William Gilbert’s lyrics and dialogue poking fun at England’s politics, while Sir Arthur Sullivan provides one hummable tune after another. Presented by First Coast Opera March 20 and 21 at Lewis Auditorium, Flagler College.
MAGIC
Masters of Illusion
Starring some of the world’s greatest award-winning magicians, this 21st Century magic show may be unlike anything you have seen before, and is filled with modern illusions and arts of deception, performed live on stage March 22, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $54-$72.
ARTS
Women Makers Market
The Cummer Museum plays host to Spring Bloom: Women Makers Market in the Gardens, a celebration of the spirit of spring and the power of female creativity with a daylong marketplace in the riverfront gardens. In honor of Women’s History Month, the museum showcases women makers, designers and entrepreneurs March 24, 11 AM-7 PM. u
Cosmic Baseball
Cruise Control
PHOTO BY ANDY VARNES
During the NFL season, the arrival of Jaguars owner Shad Khan’s megayacht Kismet (meaning destiny or fate) is a can’t miss site along the north bank of the St. Johns River in Downtown Jax. When in town, Khan often resides on the floating marvel, as well as hosts parties for friends, business partners, and Jaguars staff and players. For those not fortunate enough to be invited aboard, the yacht is as luxurious as one might imagine.
The magazine Boat International reports the vessel is 400 feet in length and cost more than $300 million to complete in 2024. Spread across six decks for owner and guests is a remarkable collection of rooms and amenities including an illuminated dance floor, DJ booth, four bars, pools, hot tubs, movie theater, four fireplaces, wine vault, sauna, hair salon, massage room, yoga studio, gym, cryotherapy chamber, a two-deck video art wall and an underwater “Nemo” viewing window. The owner’s “apartment” spans two decks and comes complete with two marbled bathrooms, dressing rooms and a hot tub.
The interior spaces are finished in a variety of elegant materials—marble, onyx, velvet, crystal, leather, mahogany and suede. Outside, the teak helipad doubles as a pickleball court. On a deck nearby is a covered dining area and kitchen outfitted with a barbecue grill, teppanyaki cooking station and pizza oven. Note the 13-foot stylized silver Jaguar mounted on the bowsprit.
According to a 2024 article in Robb Report , a weekly charter aboard Kismet is priced at roughly $3.25 million, making it one of the most expensive in the world. That figure comes to about $272,000 each for a party of 12 guests. The crew of nearly 40 is included, as are water toys such as Jet Skis, eFoils, waterslides, a sailing dinghy and floating deck.
So, how does Khan’s yacht measure up against those owned by other billionaires? Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s $300 - million Launchpad comes in at approximately 387 feet, using some 291 gallons of fuel per hour when cruising. Amazon’s Jeff Bezos owns the world’s largest sailing yacht, Koru . The three-masted vessels stretches 417 feet and is estimated to cost around $500 million. The world’s largest superyacht currently at sea is said to be the Azzam , a sleek monster of a ship measuring nearly 600 feet from stern to bow and owned by the royal family of Abu Dhabi. u
BEST the
THINGS TO EAT RIGHT NOW
From breakfast sandwiches and chocolatey desserts to tummy-warming soups and racks of ribs, let’s take a big bite out of the Northeast Florida foodie scene.
BY JEFFREY SPEAR AND JOHN O’MARA
NOTABLE NEWBIES
Do you eat to live or live to eat?
There is a big difference. The later group is just as comfortable noshing a street taco from a food truck as they are relishing a multi-course tasting menu at a fine dining establishment. For them, the setting, service and price are important—but it’s really all about the flavors, the excitement of trying something new and perhaps finding the next hidden culinary gem. Here, we take a tour of nearly 100 First Coast restaurants, stretching from Amelia Island to the Oldest City, Jax Beach to Downtown and all points in between. We encourage readers take at least part of the tour themselves this year. Discover new surprises and revisit old favorites.
14 Prime
A visually stunning newcomer to Jacksonville's Deerwood neighborhood, this steakhouse understands service, applying considerable culinary prowess to every dish. Steak lovers will find it all—Prime, Black Angus and Wagyu cuts, extensive wine list and delightful cocktails. Their seafood and pasta dishes are equally impressive. Don't miss their dreamy Cloud Nine cocktail ($21) or Wild Burgundy Escargot Pot Pie ($27).
Brine Oyster Bar
Oysters and seafood are plentiful at this San Marco-
adjacent restaurant. You'll find exquisite offerings, from the relatively simple Bagel & Schmear, to the undeniably entertaining Caviar Fries ($20) and alluring Lobster Cannelloni ($30). Whether you dine on their open patio, covered courtyard or the more intimate indoor dining room, this is a cozy spot to share a great meal with great friends.
La Cocina at the Cellar Upstairs
The San Sebastian Winery has been an Oldest City landmark for years. Among the latest upgrades to the multi-level attraction is La Cocina, the white table cloth dining experience on the upper
Flying Iguana
level. The menu covers much ground, from poached pear salad ($13) and Short Rib Sliders ($17) to New Zealand lamb, Seared Chilean Seabass and grilled 8 oz. filet mignon complemented by a rich mushroom, blue cheese and spinach cream sauce served with heirloom carrots and creamy potatoes ($51). Listen for live music most nights, but particularly on weekends. Choose between the elegant main dining room, the bar or rooftop patio overlooking the San Sebastian River.
Chophouse at Nocatee
This stylishly appointed steakhouse is a welcome addition to the alwaysexpanding Nocatee property. While its open-air rooftop is alluring on warm days, the richly appointed dining room is perfect yearround. Everything you'd expect from a steakhouse of this caliber, starting with craft cocktails followed by beautifully prepared steaks and fresh seafood. Try their Wagyu Carpaccio ($28) or Hawaiian Bigeye Tuna Tartare ($26).
Dorothy's Downtown
Enjoy authentic Louisianastyle cuisine right here in downtown Jacksonville. The setting is curiously vintage with a touch of elegance. Come for lunch or dinner. Better still, start with happy hour at the bar, the only time to experience the Voodoo Balls ($10) and Short Rib Poutine ($18). Their Creole heritage is apparent throughout the menu, especially in the Fried Chicken Gumbo ($24).
Pour Taproom
They say there are more than 80 beers on tap at this Downtown gathering spot. The self-serve concept (pour your own and pay by the ounce) is still something of a novelty in Jax, but we’re excited to see the city center welcoming dining
Gemma Fish + Oyster
and drinking establishments like this. It’s big, spread over two level. Burgers, spinach artichoke dip, shrimp po boy sandwiches, and jerk chicken egg rolls ($14) readily complement the expansive list of ales, ciders, lagers and pretty much everything that can be brewed and poured in a pint glass.
Electric Dough Pizza Co.
Located in the old San Marco Theatre, this is the latest creation by Jacksonville's renown Chef Tom Gray. The pizzas feature a traditional Roman-style dough, airy with a crispycheesy edge reminiscent of Detroit-style pizzas. Favorites include The Mighty Quinn and Godfather II (both $20 for a medium sized pie). Don't forget the bar, stocked with all your favorites. A perfect happy hour destination.
Othello
Located in Springfield, this neighborhood gem offers Mediterranean specialties paired with natural wines and local beers. Whether your adventure includes their baba ghanoush ($8), Fava Bean Falafel ($11), or something more robust such as Seared Octopus ($26) or the shareable 32 oz. Braised Lamb Shank ($59), Spanish and Middle Eastern flavors abound. Plus, plenty of indulgent cocktails available from the bar.
Saleya Riviera Cafe
Influenced by the simplicity of cuisine along the French Cote d’ Azur, diners find an inspired menu including an impressive selection of negronis, spritzes and house cocktails. A few suggestions for a deliciously good time starts with their Walnut Muhammara Spread ($9) and Hamachi Crudo ($18), followed by their Mediterranean Seabass ($27) or Lamb Rigatoni ($26). So many wonderful choices.
FINE DINING
Eleven South
Located in South Jacksonville Beach, Eleven South balances elegance, fine dining and impeccable service with the casual nature of its coastal surroundings. Specializing in expertly prepared, mesquite grilled steaks and fresh seafood, there's everything from Tuna & Avocado Tartare ($17) and Stuffed Fresh Figs ($16) to Cape Cod Diver Scallops ($38) and Double Bone-In Duroc Pork Chop ($39). As you'd expect from an establishment of this caliber, there's an impressive wine list, a full-service bar offering craft cocktails and martinis, and a rare selection of bourbon, whiskey and rye. With seasonal specials always available, be sure to ask your server for recommendations. Don't forget dessert, best when accompanied by a selection from their list of dessert wines, cognacs, brandies and ports.
Ember & Iron
This St. Johns County establishment is impressive. An extensive selection of tequilas and whiskeys greet you as you enter. You can't miss their flaming, oak-burning grill either, used for many of the best dishes on the menu. A rustic approach reminiscent of camp-fire cooking, try their Logan Mill Skillet Cornbread ($8) followed by a Sweet Tea Brined Pork Tenderloin ($30) or Seared Redfish ($37).
River & Post
This ultra-stylish hotspot along Riverside Avenue offers a varied
menu featuring chilled shellfish, raw oysters, and seafood entrées including their crowd-pleasing Bouillabaisse ($46). Don't miss their steaks and chops, most notably their Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop ($37), as well as burgers, chicken and vegan options. Visit the downstairs dining room or head up to their rooftop lounge to enjoy cocktails, a limited menu and the view of the St Johns River.
Rustica
While the Silverleaf community is still emerging, this is one of the more exciting arrivals. Illuminated fish sculptures swim overhead, hinting at the restaurant's innovative menu. Along with a contemporary bar program, a few dishes of note includes the Tandoor Roasted Miso Glazed Hoisin Ribs ($18), Roasted Lobster Tail Ramen ($38) and Rustica Nigiri ($23) with tuna, salmon, hamachi and crispy oysters.
Matthew’s
Attentive service, refined setting, extensive wine collection, superbly plated dishes…. check, check, check and check. A San Marco dining jewel for nearly three decades, Matthew’s continues to epitomize fine dining in the River City. The M Lounge is ideal for creative bar bites and cocktails while the intimate dining room (seats only 50) is sleek and elegant. The open kitchen adds to the allure and excitement of an
evening. The menu adapts with the season but diners can expect sophisticated offerings such as snow crab salad ($17), seared foie gras with sweet onion confit, and Maine diver scallops with creamed corn and broccolini purée ($52). For truly special occasions, a chef’s tasting menu (six or eight courses) might be in order.
Rue St. Marc
Located in bustling San Marco Square, Rue St. Marc has a something of an upscale bistro vibe. It retains a casual neighborhood appeal, but not in a t-shirt and flip-flops way. Details mean a lot here, from the garnish on a cocktail glass to this crisp folds of the linens to the sear on the scallops. French cuisine is the star with dishes such as smoked salmon tartlets ($7) and wild boar country pate ($17), but the chef’s inspiration jumps to creative diversions such as venison stripling with savoy cabbage, buckwheat spatula and huckleberry jus. Apple butter soufflé with rum creme anglaise for dessert, anyone? Multi-course tasting menus available, too.
Michael’s
Tucked inside the Hyatt Hotel in Vilano Beach is Michael’s, home base for longtime St. Augustine chef Michael Lugo. Beachy it’s not. No, the dinner-only establishment is decidedly formal with a grand piano, chic wine library, and a menu that focuses on steaks and seafood—often with a coastal Spanish influence such as coffeecrusted salmon with creamy risotto ($42) and Steak Mofongo with smashed fried yucca ($42). If still hungry over the weekend, come back for a second meal at Pesca Rooftop, a more casual eatery and bar with open-air seating.
ORSAY
Avondale’s Orsay is a true neighborhood dining landmark serving dinner and a very popular Sunday brunch. Many a meal starts with oysters from the raw bar, perhaps an order of marinated octopus with capers and lemon zest ($19), too. There are two primary dining rooms, as well as a small covered porch. French flavors abound, from the Croque Madame sandwich ($23) to the rustic bouillabaisse ($39), a hearty stew of shellfish in a saffrontomato broth. Perfect on a cold winter evening.
PASTA & SAUCES
cuisine steeped in traditions straight from Salerno Italy. Serving both lunch and dinner, there's a tremendous assortment of Italian favorites and house specialties. From appetizers such as Prosciutto e Melone ($15) and Vongole Positano, sautéed Littleneck clams ($16), lots of soups, salads, pizzas, and pastas, as well as main dishes such as Costata Di Vitello Al Carboni Vivi—grilled veal chop ($38) and Dentice Champagne, snapper in champagne cream sauce ($20), it would be difficult to walk away hungry. Along with a well stocked wine list and bar, there's everything you need for an enjoyable, undeniably Italian, dining experience.
Midtown Table
In a part of town overflowing with franchise brands, it’s refreshing to see a locally owned eatery set down roots and flourish. Midtown’s menu has a decided Italian flair, laced with handmade pastas, Calabrian chilis, roasted garlic and basil pesto. Sure, there are burgers, sandwiches and salads, but for our money one can’t miss with house favorites such as fettuccini bathed
garlic, and fish consommé tossed with linguine ($32). Oh, and Neapolitan pizzas, too.
Taverna
Like an old friend or beloved relative, this San Marco favorite never fails to bring a smile to one’s face. We say start the evening with a dish of marinated olives drenched in garlic oil and a plate of burrata caprese of heirloom tomatoes, basil, prosciutto, balsamic reduction and grilled bread ($18). Yum! The pastas are made daily and really shine in Taverna classics like ravioli stuffed with butternut squash, roasted mushrooms, and kale tossed in a savory truffle-parmesan cream sauce ($22). Of course, nothing beats an Italian classic like spaghetti and meatballs drenched in tomato basil sauce with parmesan ($29). A table on the front patio is ideal for people watching. Serving lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
Dwight’s Bistro
Its Penman Road address belies the classically whimsical space that is Dwight’s, a Beaches dining legend known for the thousands of handlaid tiles that adorn the interior walls
JOSEPHINE
This Italianinfluenced eatery has settled nicely into the Shoppes of Avondale, drawing neighborhood regulars and out-of-town visitors with house specialties such as sourdough focaccia with parmigiana butter ($10) and pinwheel lasagna with roasted fennel sausage ragu ($28). Of course, any Nonna worth her sauce really shines with dishes like hand-pinched agnolotti or crab and shrimp Alfredo swimming in butter sauce ($27). Serving dinner nightly and brunch on weekends.
and ceiling and a menu ripe with escargot, fresh-made mozzarella, and the longtime house favorite, crab cakes ($29 for an appetizer). Veal piccata, grilled lamb chops, New York strip with bruléed bleu cheese—not much has changed in decades here, particularly the pastas, such as angel hair puttanesca with Kalamata olives and capers ($26), fettucini carbonara ($26), and the daily special of four jumbo ravioli in red sauce ($24).
Mezza Luna
Mezza Luna is a Neptune Beach favorite, enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. Their menu features authentic Italian fare and a variety of local classics including Burrata with cabernet poached pears in a balsamic reduction ($17) and house-made Pappardelle with Short Rib Ragu ($30). Their pizzas,
PRATI ITALIA
This locally owned, boldly designed, two-story Italian restaurant sits on the rim of Jacksonville’s bustling Town Center and offers a menu featuring handmade pastas and Roman-style pizzas. Their 13-Layer Crisp Lasagna ($28), Chianti-Braised Short Rib “Pot Roast,” and all their signature pizzas are crowd pleasers. Whether you dine at the bar, outdoor patio or dining room, you’ll be well looked after.
all baked in a wood fired oven, get rave reviews. One of the most unique features at Mezza Luna is their dining options. Choose from the distinctly beach friendly bar and lounge, covered outdoor patio for a little fresh air, or the main dining room for a more formal experience. While you're there, enjoy something special from their extensive wine list, selection of local and craft beers, or perhaps one of their signature martinis from the fullservice bar.
Al's Pizza
Al's Pizza is one of Jacksonville's most enduring collection of homegrown restaurants, and a favorite among pasta and pizza lovers of all ages. In operation since 1988, there are five locations including San Pablo, Baymeadows, Neptune Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach and Riverside, all offering a wide variety of Italian specialties including chicken parmigiana, stuffed shells, lasagna, calzones, salads, sandwiches and pizzas. Their 14-inch Greek ($25), Margarita ($25) and Vegan Deluxe pizzas are all exceptional.
Whether one dines on-premises, pick up your meal to enjoy at home, or have it delivered, Al’s are open for both lunch and dinner daily. Plus nightly specials including Monday Pasta Night, Wine Down Wednesdays and Happy Hour discounts every day of the week.
Poppy's Italiano
Traditional Italian cuisine and unparalleled hospitality are the house specialties at Poppy's Italiano. While their Ponte Vedra Beach location is a longstanding favorite, embracing slightly traditional decor, their second location in St Augustine is a touch more modern with a full-service bar. Whichever location you visit, enjoy classics such as Linguini Primavera, Penne alla Vodka ($23), Veal Francese ($36), Pork Ossobuco ($32) and Baked Manicotti ($22). Plus, there are always exciting specials that change daily. Be sure to ask your server. Of note are their highly popular "Early Bird Specials," served at lunchtime from noon to 5:30 PM, that include a glass of house wine.
ST. AUGUSTINE
Collage
One of the more romantic restaurants in the Oldest City, Collage has been a Hypolita Street landmark for decades, with an eclectic menu that focuses on locally caught seafood, lamb and steaks.
TRY THIS: Lobster-stuffed ravioli with sautéed shrimp in a pesto cream sauce, topped with a Maine lobster tail, $54
FOR DESSERT: Vanilla rum cake finished with a sweet rum glaze, $8
Asado Life
More than just a restaurant, Asado combines all the things we love about a bakery, market and private event space, too. Wood-fire cooking touches most everything on the menu with the smoke and char adding to the sights, sounds and aromas of the waterside establishment.
START WITH: Plato de path charcuterie board with red oak-smoked duck prosciutto, dried cherry gastrique, truffle mushroom duxelles, French bread and more, $28
The Ice Plant
The building dates back to the 1920s, but the farm-to-table concept, grass-fed beef and the craft spirits embrace contemporary palettes. Serving brunch, lunch and dinner, don’t forget to visit the next-door distillery and gift shop.
TRY THIS: Blue crab beignets with Datil pepper remoulade, four for $26
FROM THE BAR: The Little Red Corvette, gin, Campari, cranberry, thyme and lemon, $16
TRY THIS: 8 oz. Hanger steak, $34, with hand-cut pommes frites and creamy bourbon peppercorn sauce
Harvest & Reel
You don’t need to be a guest at the Embassy Suites Resort along St. Augustine Beach to enjoy a meal here. The open kitchen and contemporary decor add to an upscale beachy vide, as does the herbcrusted salmon, shrimp and crab chowder and crispy flounder sandwich. A walk along the sand and to the Pier is a terrific way to end the evening before heading home.
TRY THIS: Porcini-dusted seared scallops with a creamy polenta cake, charred asparagus, mushroom and corn ragu
Forgotten Tonic
It’s a little hidden down quiet Aviles Street, but certainly worth finding. Craft cocktails are house specialties and the menu is full of dishes meant to be shared, including warn
focaccia with cinnamon-datil pepper and honey butter ($10) and baked brie in puff pastry ($20), and crispy golden brown risotto balls filled with mushroom duxelles and coated in Parmesan breadcrumbs ($15). The cocktail and spirits list is miles long.
FOR DESSERT: Creamy banana pudding cheesecake on a vanilla wafer crust, $11
Cordova Coastal Chophouse
Located inside the Casa Monica Hotel, Cordova epitomizes elegance and grace with fine wines and a sophisticated menu with Mediterranean and Spanish influences.
TRY THIS: Braised lamb gnocchi with pistachio mint pesto, lemon and manchego, $32
FROM THE BAR: Cordova Sour cocktail made from Buffalo Trace bourbon, maple, lemon, egg white and Angostura bitter, $18 u
Llama Restaurant
Another of St. Augustine’s petit dining gems, the traditions and flavors of Peru flow from chef Marcel Viscera’s kitchen. Plate presentations are works of art, with a dash of theater thrown in with smoke, foams and delicate sauces.
TRY THIS: Mar Y Tierra, a stir-fry hanger steak with onions and tomatoes with a smokey finish over shrimp tagliatelle pasta, $55
FOR DESSERT: The S’More is On Fire, shortbread cookies filled with dulce de leche topped with coconut marshmallow, served with Parmesan ice cream and strawberry, black currant and rosemary compote, $21
Jacksonville
The Avenues Mall
The Shoppes of Avondale
Savannah Broughton Street Collection
Macarons • Lavazza Coffee
Chocolates
Gelato
LATIN FLAIR
TACOLU
TacoLu is arguably the most popular taco and tequila destination in Jacksonville Beach. Okay, there’s really no argument. Serving a tempting selection of tacos including The Taco Rosa, made with seared Ahi tuna ($5) and Carnitas ($4), as well as Street Corn Nachos ($14), Bangin’ Dilla, shrimp quesadilla and loads of enchiladas, salads and more.
Plus, there’s an encyclopedic selection of tequilas and mezcals that overwhelms the bar, giving rise to a long list of margaritas, lots of creatively conceived cocktails, and just about anything else you might want. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday and brunch on weekends, enjoy your visit at the bar, in the restaurant, or outside on their festive, open-air deck.
Flying Iguana
There's nothing like a visit to Neptune Beach, enjoying the surf and fresh air, followed by happy hour cocktails or a meal at Flying Iguana. With more than 100 tequilas, an alluring selection of margaritas, craft beers and specialty cocktails, you're off to a good start. The menu features a wide range of Latin-inspired dishes. Choose from Guacamole & Chips—prepared tableside ($13), an assortment of tacos including Crispy Pork Belly, Blackened Shrimp and Flying Fish (all $6), or one of their flavorful rice bowls such as Peruvian Steak ($19), Caribbean Shrimp ($21) or Veggie ($19). While any visit will be enjoyable, you might want to check out the specials on Margarita Mondays or Taco Tuesdays.
Oaxaca Club
If you like Mexican cuisine, you'll enjoy the traditional moles, fresh herbs, quesillo, and coastal Mexican dishes served at this popular Jacksonville Beach destination. From tacos and tamales to authentic Oaxacan specialties, choices are numerous. Their Barbacoa Enmoladas ($24),
featuring house made molé, is not to be missed. Similarly, their Sweet Heat Margarita ($17) is a spicy and undoubtedly worthwhile treat.
Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequilla
Located steps from the Bridge of Lions in the heart of St. Augustine’s waterfront historic district, Casa Reina is a rambling beauty with tables in a pair of dining rooms as well as patios and porches on three levels. Start your lunch of dinner with a pineapple
mojito or a margarita. We enjoy the Casa Reina with Casa Noble tequila, orange liqueur, lime and agave ($14). You’ll want some chips, salsa and guacamole with that, too. For the main course, the house-seasoned grilled ribeye with caramelized peppers and onions, black beans and rice, and chimichurri and truffle hot sauce ($32) is wonderful. Another winner is the seafood combo enchiladas plate, corn tortillas stuffed with seared shrimp and scallops, and Chihuahua cheese, and covered in blue crab cream sauce, with
black beans and white rice ($23). We’re going to need a to-go box. But first, another margarita, please.
1928 Cuban Bistro
It’s hard to keep track, but we believe there are now seven 1928 locations peppered across the region. The homegrown collection of casual eateries, coffee stops and bakeries offer a sizable selection of breakfast specialties, lunchtime sandwiches, and coffees. In the morning, nothing beats a cafe con leche ($4.50) and the tostada dulce ($7) with cream cheese and guava preserves on sweet bread. Come back for lunch and the “El Guajiro ($14), with roast pork, onions, sweet plantains, Swiss cheese, and the house special salsa stuffed between Cuban bread.
Chancho King
The city’s Murray Hill neighborhood is quietly becoming a bonafide Jax
foodie destination. Up and down Edgewood Avenue are several unique spots for food and drink, among them Chancho King. The menu is inspired by Ecuadorian classics and produces some deliciously surprising munchies like the fried cheese and yucca balls ($6), braised mushroom sandwich ($7) and shrimp and coconut stew ($21). Or, saddle up to the bar for oysters and champagne. Quirky and fun.
Havanna Jax Cafe
The restaurant has been a fixture in St. Nicholas for more than 30 years. The name says it all—Cuban cuisine is the house specialty. Pressed Cuban sandwiches ($16), chicken croquettes with guava dipping sauce ($12), arroz con pollo with beans and plantains ($24) and braised ropa vieja ($26) are just some the menu standouts. Of course, don’t overlook the paella platter ($32) with mussels, shrimp, fish, scallops and calamari. Big enough to share. But why would you?
SALENTO COLUMBIAN STEAKHOUSE
With two First Coast locations (Mandarin and St. Johns), Salento is a family affair that’s making a name for itself amongst those in search of South American flavors. Plantains, cassava, chicken empanadas ($11), chicharron, arepas and fried pork belly and more produce a menu that covers much of the continent. The grill is the center of attention here, preparing ribeye ($44 for 16 oz.), t-bone and New York strip steaks, pork chops, burgers, chicken and fish ($20 for two tilapia filets). The combo plates are the way to go, if you ask us. The Columbian coffee is pretty darn good, too.
PATIOS, DECKS & ROOFTOPS
Cowford Chophouse
Downtown’s Cowford Chophouse spans three separate levels including a bar up top that provides postcard views of the Main Street Bridge and much of the city skyline. Decked out with plenty of tables and a dedicated bar, when the weather allows there is no better spot for a cocktail or two (maybe a “Dirty Cow” or “The Jaguar”) after a long day at the office. Downstairs is the upscale restaurant, favored for entrée classics such as filet mignon, wood-fired salmon, Maine lobster and lamb chops with house made mint jelly. White tablecloths, polished wood, wine lockers… you get the idea.
River & Fort
The rooftop menu at this St. Augustine restaurant is similar to what can be had on the patio and inside the first-floor dining room. Given its setting just across the street from Matanzas Bay and the Castillo de San Marco, seafood play a significant role. Broiled oysters with chorizo and lobster flat bread with garlic cream and three cheeses ($23) share space with wood-charred chicken wings tossed in gochujang barbecue
sauce ($17) and cocktails like the “Cannonball,” made with tequila, passion fruit and lime ($18).
Whitey’s Fish Camp
John F. Kennedy was President when the doors first opened at Whitey’s, a Doctors Lake magnet for boaters who slip into Swimming Pen Creek and tie up at the docks for fried fish baskets, huge seafood platters, pasta, tacos, sandwiches and more. Hungry? The Boathouse Combo for two ($47) is a fried mountain of shrimp, clam strips, two whole catfish, and sides like cheese grits and slaw. The Tiki Bar hosts live music each Saturday starting at 4 PM.
Cap’s on the Water
The Vilano Beach dining landmark has weathered the decades and many storms. Hurricanes have knocked her down, but Cap’s always gets back up. The huge deck out back overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway is legendary for its tangle of oak trees, skinny beach, gorgeous sunsets, peel and eat shrimp and Corona beers. The lobster ravioli with Maine lobster, ricotta and mozzarella ($34) and flash-fried grouper swimming in vanilla rum
sauce ($34) gives one a hint of what the larger menu features.
Harry's Seafood
When visiting St. Augustine, there's a restaurant in the heart of this historic city that features Cajun/ Creole cuisine, live music, a view of the Matanzas River and a lush outdoor patio sheltered by a canopy of flowering Hong Kong Orchid trees. This is Harry's Seafood, a St Augustine landmark that's been a treasured dining destination since 1997. If you enjoy Louisiana-inspired dishes, start with their Boudin Balls, a New Orleans tradition ($14) or Fried Green Tomatoes ($15), accompanied by one of their many specialty cocktails. Their signature
It’s a hard choice: The courtyard patio or the second-floor terrace? Both are winners, if seeking a table outside for a meal in Downtown St. Augustine. Open for little over a year, Saint earns high marks for fine Italian fare, wine and cocktails. Wood-charred lamb chops with saffron risotto and garlic asparagus ($56) and whole roasted branzino with artichokes, fennel, salsa verde and white bean ragu ($47) are menu staples. The courtyard is particularly beautiful at night and when live music is being played. Parking? That can be a challenge. Best to go to the city garage a couple blocks away. Dinner and weekend brunch.
Crab Crusted Redfish Royale ($30) or Shrimp & Scallop Orleans ($28) are crowd favorites as a main course, although there's plenty more to satisfy every preference.
The District SPR
How many restaurants in Jax have a Moroccan tent and a geodesic dome waiting for diners? We know of at least one, The District. In many ways Springfield’s little restaurant that could epitomizes the quirky neighborhood in which it sits. The patio out back is the place to enjoy house favorites like spinach and artichoke dip, maple bacon deviled eggs, blackened salmon and beef Wellington in puff pastry. Oh, and the cheese boards are not to be missed. Dinner opens at 3 PM, brunch on weekends 11 AM-3 PM.
O-Ku
Modern and uber stylish, O-Ku is gem just steps off the sand at Jax Beach. It’s one of about a dozen branded restaurants around the country, with the local property featuring a rooftop bar and dining space. Sushi and sashimi options take up much of the menu, but additional dinner options include orange and gingerglazed pork belly ($25) and crispy duck with roasted carrot and duck skin chicharron ($33).
1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop
The oceanside dining and cocktail outpost is part of the nearby Sawgrass Marriott Resort and offers indoor and outdoor seating on the second and third floors. In a region with too few beachfront
restaurants, 1912 is a treat and ideal for sharing lite bites with friends. Blackened rock shrimp, roasted garlic hummus, charred tomato and ricotta flatbread, charcuterie boards—the choices are many. It’s a casual spot but the menu elevates an evening with favorites like seared scallops in a citrustomato beurre blanc ($48) and boneless braised short ribs over creamy goat cheese polenta ($50). Serving lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
Congaree & Penn
Conch House
Driving back down to St. Augustine, we cross over to Anastasia Island for a stop at the Conch House. Sure, tourists love the tiki hut tables. But so do we. The waterfront view is wonderful, the island vibe can’t be beat and the Goombay Smashes are always cold. Conch fritters ($16), smoked fish dip ($16) and shrimp and Andouille sausage gumbo bathed in Creole gravy with okra over cilantro rice ($29)— what’s not to love. Lunch and dinner daily starting at 11 AM. ^
HAPPYHOURBRUNCH
Spread across more than 300 acres, Congaree and Penn is something of a little farm community all its own. It’s a bit of drive to the city’s Northwest side, but worth the ride. There are goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, horses, orchards, ancient oaks, creeks and more to explore. Seasonal and farm-to-table are firm rules in the kitchen. Cornbread with whipped butter ($12), brisket flatbread ($25) and confit duck leg ($51) are on the menu this winter. The covered patio is picture perfect when weather permits and the sunsets can be amazing.
Saturday & 10am-2pmSunday
FRUITS OF THE SEA
CITY GRILLE
As you enter City Grille, conveniently located on the Downtown Southbank, you’re greeted by an antique bar that invites you to pull up a stool, grab a cocktail, and enjoy a few freshly shucked oysters. Alternatively, head into one of their intimate dining rooms, then start your meal with Hamachi Crudo ($19) or Aji Tuna Tataki ($18) accompanied by wines from their award-winning wine list. Ask about seasonal specials, or try their Local Black Grouper ($37), Braised Beef Short Rib ($37) or an expertly grilled, hand-cut steak. For the perfect finish, complete your experience with a decadently sweet treat accompanied by a fine port or dessert wine.
Aqua Grill
Aqua Grill, a contemporary, elegantly appointed restaurant in Ponte Vedra Beach, has been treating its guests to eclectic, multi-ethnic cuisines for nearly four decades. While its menu is rooted in fresh, locally sourced seafood, it offers considerably more.
Under second generation family leadership, longstanding menu favorites have been preserved while rotating seasonal dishes have been added. Best described as elevated cuisine, a few favorites include Deviled Eggs Seattle Style—with a touch of smoked salmon and caviar ($12), Vidalia-crusted Flounder— their most popular dish ($42), and Steak Frites ($36) for those who prefer land-based dishes. Keep an eye out for upcoming, chef curated wine dinners, quarterly culinary events not to be missed.
Sliders Oyster Bar
You don’t get much more “beachy” than Sliders. Sprinkled with light pinks and greens, a covered patio and walk-up outdoor bar for drinks and eats, picnic tables, and seafood delivered daily from a local purveyor, the Neptune Beach gathering spot offers the perfect sand-between-your-toes vibe.
Mayport shrimp and grits ($18), bacon-wrapped scallops ($16), oysters Rockefeller, conch fritters… would it be greedy to order one of each? The poke bowl includes Ahi tuna drizzled with soy syrup, served atop jasmine rice, baby spinach and cucumber ($22).
The Fish Camps
There are four of them, so one is never really too far from a Fish Camp—be it North Beach, Palm Valley, Julington Creek or St. Augustine. As the name implies, diners find boatloads of fruits of the sea including grilled octopus, New England style clam chowder, fried fish sandwiches, seared tuna and more. For starters, try the Abaco conch fritters with lemon aioli ($14) or the fried gator tail and datil pepper dipping sauce ($13). For the main course, one can’t miss with
the blackened catch of the day with grits and collards ($19). Lunch and dinner daily.
Oceana
Oceana is a bright and spacious raw bar and seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Marco. Open for happy hour and dinner, Tuesday through Saturday, guests can enjoy a selection of fresh, seasonal fish and shellfish, prepared with unmistakable global influences. While there's plenty for non-seafood lovers, the freshly shucked oysters, Taverna Tower ($75), Tuna Poke ($20) and Vietnamese Seafood Stew (36) are all excellent examples of what's available. Along with a full bar, there are lots of martinis, house cocktails, beers, sakes and wines to enjoy. For noodle lovers, Asian noodle nights every Tuesday through Thursday remain popular, offering dishes such as Dan Dan Noodles, Short Rib Yaki Udon and more.
Salt Life Food Shack
If you're drawn to the sun, sand, and surf that Florida's coastal living provides, Salt Life Food Shack has you covered. A popular hangout for surfers, fishing enthusiasts, beachcombers, sun worshippers, and visitors alike, they frequent the restaurant's locations in Jacksonville Beach, St. Augustine Beach and Fernandina Beach in search of island-themed specialty drinks; an abundance of rum, tequila, beer and wine options; and a menu that features a cornucopia of fresh seafood and tropical delights. A memorable meal starts with some Hawaiian Wings ($16), a
dozen Oysters on the Half Shell ($25) or an Asian Salmon Salad. Larger appetites will appreciate their Crab Baked Grouper ($30), Spicy Poke Bowl ($23), and Island Skirt Steak ($24).
Gemma Fish + Oyster
San Marco is blessed with a number of upscale dining establishments, including the chic Gemma. The interior is dressed in polished stone, verdant greens, bold graphics and sophisticated lighting. The second-floor lounge and veranda is a must-visit. Menu standouts include baked crab and artichoke dip ($18), spicy Calabrian chili mussels ($22), rainbow trout stuffed with blue crab and shrimp ($40) and bouillabaisse awash with Florida lobster, shrimp, white fish, mussels in a saffron shellfish broth ($42).
The Fish Company
Located in Atlantic Beach about a mile from the ocean's edge, The Fish Company is a bright, light and spacious restaurant offering significantly more than fish. Known for everything from freshly shucked oysters ($17/ doz.), Hot & Spicy, Peel & Eat Shrimp ($18/half pound) and Seafood Bouillabaisse ($32) to Fried Seafood Platters and both Snow and King Crab legs, this is the place for seafood. It's also the place for cocktails, a broad selection of wines as well as domestic, craft and imported beers. When you arrive, you'll discover a lively neighborhood gathering spot, especially during happy hour, where everyone comes to eat, drink and make merry.
AMELIA ISLAND
Burlingame Restaurant
Tucked down 5th Street half a block from downtown Fernandina’s main drag, you might mistake Burlingame for a private residence. The interior decor compliments a seasonal menu typically laden with seafood specialties. We love the small covered patio, especially at night.
TRY THIS: The seafood gumbo is a hearty mélange of shellfish stock, shrimp, scallops, oysters, Andouille sausage, fried okra and Carolina Gold rice ($48)
FOR DESSERT: Lemon pie with blueberry compote ($14) and vanilla bean creme brûlée with mixed berries ($12)
Pogo’s Kitchen
The interior is contemporary and sophisticated without being pretentious. A small bar greets diners as they enter and the warm woods, subdued colors, black and white photos and tile flooring help make one feel right at home. Dinner six days a week plus Sunday brunch.
TRY THIS: Pan-seared scallops with celery root, truffle and pine nut gremolata, $38
SOMETHING SMALLER: Pork and beef meatball with pecorino Romano and marinara, $18
Lagniappe
Sure, the name can be a little tricky to say, but “Lan-Yap” earns the Creole term that translates to “a little something extra.” Here, that something extra means artfully plated dishes in a warm setting complete with black granite bar and high-backed booths. Outdoor patio seating, too.
TWO TO SHARE: Chicken-fried oysters with horseradish hot sauce aioli ($16) and hotsmoked steel head salmon brûlée with house pickles, capers and crostini ($15)
Salt at the Ritz-Carlton
Amelia is blessed with an enviable collection of upscale dining properties. At the top of the list is the AAA Five-Diamond Award winner, Salt. Chef D’Cuisine Okan Kizilbayir and team present seasonally inspired menus featuring caviar, confit duck, beef tenderloin, and halibut baked in butter with braised chicory and shrimp au poivre. Overlooking rolling dunes with the Atlantic just beyond, the dining room is a special place for truly special occasions.
SAVE THE DATE: Salt hosts a series of intimate dining events each year, including a Valentine’s Day (February 14) four-course prix-fixe menu ($225 per person).
DON’T MISS: Enjoy a cocktail, meal or dessert in the Salt Lounge, a more casual experience yet sophisticated and relaxed at the same time
TRY THIS: Pecan-crusted rainbow trout with lemon-caper beurre blanc ($32)
Cucina South
Italian American fare with Mediterranean twists highlights the menu at this stylish eatery along 1st Coast Highway. Pasta dishes such as chicken piccata, angel hair pasta, linguine and clams, and spaghetti and meatballs complement other house favorites like osso buco ($27) and braised beef short ribs ($31). If you’re lucky, the fire pit on the patio will be crackling away. Dinner Wednesday through Sunday.
TRY THIS: Cioppino with salmon, little neck clams, mussels, shrimp and fennel swimming in a spicy tomato broth, and focaccia bread
ASK FOR: Weather permitting, ask for a table out back on the patio or porch
Timotti’s Seafood Shack
There are three Timotti’s scattered around the First Coast, with the 3rd Street location being the original. Nothing fancy here—paper bowls, disposable utensils, canned beer— just outstanding fried baskets, tacos, sandwiches and salads. The covered
brick patio with picnic tables is a haven on a hot summer day. Plus, there’s a playground for the kids.
MUST TRY: Lobster rolls with chilled lobster salad stuffed into a pair of soft rolls, market price
HOUSE SPECIALTY: Ahi tuna poke bowl with coconut rice, avocado, spinach, green onions, and black sesame seeds, $11
Wicked Bao
Specializing in Asian street food, the menu of this Fernandina Beach favorite, just a block from the waterfront, runs from fried tofu wings to charred octopus ($13). Casual and fun, check out the black board for the list of small plates, noodle dishes, bao buns and libations, place your order and find a seat.
TRY THIS: The Bao Trio with three pillowy soft buns stuffed with braised pork belly, bulgogi beef and buttermilk fried chicken, $15
FROM THE BAR: A pitcher of the house sake sangria, $24 u
David’s Restaurant & Lounge
Led by chef/owner David Echeverri, his namesake restaurant offers an upscale dining experience that focuses on sustainable, local and seasonal ingredients. Walking up the steps into the red brick building, one can’t help but anticipate a special evening ahead. White tablecloths and comfortable banquet seating confirm those thoughts. Everything from the Amelia martini to the caramel mousse is presented with artistic panache.
START WITH: Grilled octopus with chimichurri, sweet plantain, chorizo and cheese croquet, salsa, compressed cucumber and passion fruit gel, $26
MUST TRY: Pan-seared sea bass with truffle Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, and citrus beurre blanc, $58
ASIAN ADVENTURES
Domu
There's nothing as satisfying as a beautifully presented bowl of ramen. At Domu, located in Jacksonville's bustling Town Center, they're putting a modern twist on authentic Japanese cuisine. The menu features creative small plates as well as an inviting selection of ramen. A few alluring options includes Tonkotsu, Creamy Miso and Yuzu Shoyu (all $17) as well as Chuka—a cold ramen salad ($15), all using house made noodles. In addition, their full-service bar is impressive, including seasonally inspired alcoholic and nonalcoholic cocktails, several varieties of sake and a compelling range of Japanese whiskeys that invites exploration. Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and Brunch on weekends, an inspired dining experience awaits.
Mesa
With two tiny dining rooms and a brick patio, reservations are a must at this Avondale Indian food fave. Oh, but there is no phone number. You’ll have to do it online. Expect classic south Indian
dishes such as chicken curry with a coconut milk sauce over Basmati rice ($24) and lamb chops with potato, arugula and cilantro ($46). However, offerings do swerve to satisfy Americanized palettes with a burger topped with goat cheese and served with fries dusted with spice and palm oil, and glazed chicken wings ($17). Check out the five-course winter tasting menu ($65). Serving dinner Tuesday through Saturday.
Indochine
Count Indochine among the true Downtown Jax culinary pioneers. The Adams Street eatery has been luring diners with its Thai specialties for some two decades. Step inside and follow the dragon mural up to the second floor to a dining room lined in exposed red brick, hardwood floors and Asian art. We suggest starting with the crab and curried cream cheese wontons ($10) or the grilled coconut curry chicken skewers. Of course, pad Thai is a top seller and can be ordered with beef, tofu, pork, shrimp, scallops or vegetarian. The wok-tossed “Sea of Indochine” special is a feast of
shrimp, squid, scallop and mussels with sweet peppers, bamboo shoots and basil ($25). Serving lunch during the week and dinner nightly.
Vagabond Korean Steakhouse
The interior is sleek and casual with a handful of high-backed booths along the wall. The center of the dining is lined with banks of large tables with communal-type seating, designed so that each guest can reach one of the built-in grills. Diners at the Tinseltown steakhouse get to do some of the cooking here. Simply select your uncooked entree—pork belly, spicy octopus, Cajun shrimp, garlic butter steak, etc…—and the staff will guide you through the cooking process, the many sauces and side dishes. It’s fun, adventurous and best for small group outings.
Lotus Noodle Bar
The menu changes with the season, but diners can expect nothing short of expertly crafted cuisine coming from chef Barry Honan’s kitchen. At Lotus, Honan, a vet of the 3-Star Michelin restaurant Le Bernardin, concentrates on traditional Japanese ramen entrées, as well as innovative appetizers such as tuna sashimi with pickled shallots, toasted pistachio, yuzo, and tomato ponzu ($29). Spicy duck, lobster and noodle, soy braised brisket… the ramen creations are sublime. Plating is sophisticated and the openkitchen floor plan allows guests
NORIKASE
It’s a visually striking restaurant with bold greens and gold. The plush dining room chairs are heavenly comfortable. The plating of the dishes is just as stylish and elegant. King salmon with coconut foam, Japanese uni, and Wagyu and shrimp Maki let diners know this is not your ordinary sushi spot. Nigiri and sashimi are prepared at the sushi bar (which is the place to sit and enjoy the chefs’ craft) utilizing yellowtail, bluefin tuna, amber jack, scallops and salmon roe. Signature plates include the black garlic filet with a brown butter sweet potato and wasabi creme fraiche ($55) and the miso yuzo salmon with roasted squash puree and grilled broccolini ($36). Crispy Brussel sprouts, honey soy glazed carrots and tempura-fried mushrooms are among the short list of sides.
to peek behind the curtain to see the culinary team at work. Open for dinner only, serving sake, Japanese beer and wine. This one’s reservation only, so do plan ahead.
Blue Orchid Thai Cuisine
There are two Blue Orchid eateries in Jax, one out near the beach in East Arlington and another in Riverside. Both serve truly authentic fare, and have done so since 2016. The Summer Rolls ($11) are light and flavorful, a rice paper wrapper stuffed with rice noodles, carrot, cucumber and basil and served with peanut sauce. It makes for a wonderful starter. The toasted roti flat breads and panang curry sauce ($12) is a can’t-miss treat. In addition to fried rice, soups and curry dishes, house specialties like the chicken glass noodle stir fry with Asian mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, onion and egg ($21) are diner favorites. On Tuesday, the restaurant’s signature pad Thai is only $13 all day. After a meal, a stroll through nearby Memorial Park can be delight.
Karai Ramen Bistro
On a winter’s day, few things satisfy more than a warm and savory bowl of ramen. Karai is one of the city’s oldest ramen outlets, having set up shop on Beach Boulevard nearly a decade ago. The decor is contemporary and somewhat spartan, but few mind because their attention is directed to a menu featuring crispy shrimp tempura ($8) and katsu chicken curry rice bowls ($14). The restaurant’s signature ramen has a silky rich broth made with chicken, ground sesame, Japanese hot sauce and white miso. Floating inside are noodles, spicy ground beef, green onions, minced garlic and, if you wish, sliced cabbage and pork belly ($16). The selection of Japanese matcha, beers and sake is outstanding. ^
TAPAS & SHARABLES
BISCOTTIS
Nestled amidst a variety of shops and restaurants in the Avondale neighborhood, Biscottis is a standout, recognized as one of Jacksonville’s most iconic dining destinations. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner and brunch on weekends, its reputation includes some of the best cakes in town including Oreo Mousse, White Chocolate Raspberry and Classic Chocolate— slices are big enough to share, if you wish. Along with an extensive menu including Wild Mushroom & Chorizo Pizza ($16), Marcona-Lemon Crusted Halibut ($42) and Cacoila Braised Short Rib ($46), the appeal of Biscottis is apparent. If you’ve not visited lately, the restaurant has enjoyed a significant remodel. A new private dining room along with upgraded surface treatments, lighting and bathrooms makes this place more enjoyable than ever.
The Local
Neptune Beach, Ponte Vedra and the original in Miramar all share common traits such as family friendly vibes, warm interiors and menus that never fail to surprise. There’s the Fruity Pebble waffle topped with whipped cream ($10), Korean short ribs with hot honey piled atop fries ($17), and Ahi tuna poke nachos. The house club sandwich is packed with ham, turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheddar, provolone on toasted sourdough and plenty big enough to share. They open for breakfast daily at 9 AM and stay open late.
Culhane’s Irish Pub
An Irish pub is all about friends, conversation, music, beer, whiskey and stick-to-your-ribs eats. That’s certainly true at Culhane’s, serving starters like steak fries topped with creamy garlic sauce and cheddar ($13), giant pretzels with beer cheese dipping sauce ($16) and baked and fried chicken wings (seven sauces available). For the table, split the house trio platter with onion rings, wings and sausage rolls ($20). Guinness, anyone? Two locations in town, Atlantic Beach and Southside.
Coastal Wine & Tapas
Tucked in Nocatee Town Center, Coastal Wine combines the best of a fine wine shop with an inviting neighborhood gathering spot. The charcuterie boards are laden with delights such as aged gouda, goat cheese, dry-aged prosciutto, fig jam, local honey and more. Other menu highlights include lump crab dip with sliced baguettes, housemade
pickles, Ahi tuna tartare and coconut shrimp with sweet Thai chili sauce. Opens daily at 4 PM.
Bearded Pig
For some of the best Q in town, The Bearded Pig, described as a Southern BBQ joint and beer garden, is the place to visit. A casual destination in the San Marco neighborhood with a loyal following, there's lots of praise for their brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage and more. Try their Bearded Poutine ($10), Pulled Pork Sandwich ($12) and Burnt Ends ($10) while they last. Better still, order your meats a-lacarte, load up on a few sides, and dig in. Whether you sit indoors or enjoy the fresh air on their covered patio, there's a full bar at your disposal, offering cocktails, local and craft brews on tap, and several screens to watch the game.
Town Hall
San Marco diners have so many fantastic options, including the cozy space that is Town Hall. Our recommendations include duck fat cornbread topped with bacon, shallots, candied peanuts and pepper jelly ($13), seared octopus drenched in an almond romesco sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, fennel and citrus vinaigrette ($16) and the three-cheese mac and cheese. The charcuterie boards are wonderful, too. Cocktails, comfy booth seating, chic bar… we’ll take it all.
13 Gypsies
Good things can come in small packages, as proven by this Riverside
standout. The interior is tiny with a small bar and just a handful of tables. They take their tapas seriously here and the menu was built for sharing. Housemade chorizo, red shrimp with curry butter and coconut broth, tomato and cucumber salad, roasted mushrooms, risotto and more prepared with Spanish overtones. Kitschy decor, sangria and desserts like tres leches and flan add to the experience.
Beirut Restaurant
Jacksonville’s international restaurant options are slowly taking shape—and we mean beyond sushi and tacos joints. Drawing flavors form the Middle East and Mediterranean to busy Baymeadows Road, meals here are best enjoyed family style. Dishes such as the grilled eggplant baba ghanouj ($10), stuffed grape leaves, hummus, lamb kebabs ($19) are meant to be shared. We recommend the falafel and the soujouk, Mediterranean beef sausages with onion, tomato and green peppers. Look for nights with live comedy and music.
Coop 303
Amidst all the action in Atlantic Beach, Coop 303 has become one of the most popular destinations in the neighborhood. Known for its deliciously crafted cuisine, a few standouts are their signature Peaches & Cream—an elevated take on fried green tomatoes ($15), Shrimp Scampi—served with potato gnocchi and coconut mushroom sauce ($36) and Hot Honey Glazed Salmon ($35). With two full bars, three dining rooms and relaxing outdoor spaces, this sleek and contemporary setting is enjoyable for lunch, weekend brunch, dinner and happy hour. There’s also the Living Room Lounge on its second floor, an upscale cocktail lounge open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings with a live DJ spinning music each night.
HANDHELDS & SANDWICHES
RP’s Fine Food and Drink
RP’s Fine Food and Drink, a popular gathering spot among locals in Jacksonville Beach, is equally appealing to visitors seeking a place that’s casual and beachy as well as familiar and satisfying. The menu, featuring dishes such as Conch Fritters ($10), Cauliflower “Wings” ($11), Crabcake BLT ($15) and Fried Shrimp Po’ Boys ($12), along with a variety of burgers, salads and more, has undeniable appeal. Coupled with a full-service bar offering plenty of wine, draft and bottled beers, lots of margaritas, an assortment of craft cocktails, several mules and a handful of mocktails, it’s easy to see why this place enjoys broad and undeniable appeal.
Mojo BBQ
With locations in Jacksonville, Jax Beach, Fleming Island, Avondale and St Augustine, you can easily enjoy the Mojo experience—great BBQ, great music and good times—whenever you'd like. Serving all your favorites and everything you'd expect from a Southern BBQ joint, including pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs, turkey, chicken and hot links. If you're not sure where to start, try their Smoked Chicken Nachos ($14), Boom Boom Shrimp ($14), or Nashville Hot Chicken. Fried pickles, chopped brisket sandwich, bbq Reuben… there’s a lot to love. With a full-service bar, and
slow-roasted French dip ($20) dripping with melted provolone cheese and au jus on the side?
At this Ponte Vedra mainstay, the French classics make choosing just one a challenge. This visit we’ll go with the ham, cheese, tomato and lettuce on a baguette. One jambon fromage, please. Grab some gourmet chocolate and a bottle of wine on your way home. Serving lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday.
Argyle
weekday happy hour from 3-6 PM, there's a considerable selection of cocktails, wines and beers (bottled and on tap) to keep you happy.
Le Petit Paris
With four eateries spread out from Atlantic Beach to Mandarin, a fresh croissant or baguette is never too far away. Salads and quiche are popular, but for our Euros one can’t go wrong with the toasted croissant or baguette sandwiches. Try the brie, honey, walnuts and mixed greens croissant sandwich ($11) or the Le Marais with smoked salmon, tzatziki cream, cucumbers, red onions lemon. C’est manifique!
Treylor Park
Born in Savannah, there are now two Northeast Florida Treylor Parks, in Nocatee and St. Augustine. The quirky menu is packed with innovative flavor combinations. Sandwiches include fried baloney, grilled apple pie with chicken, and the Double Wide Dog, a hearty serving of a foot-long hot dog topped with the house sloppy joe, fried banana peppers, cheese, and Dijonaise, plus fries ($16). The PB&J chicken wings ($16) with peach jam dipping sauce is unusually delish.
JJ’s Liberty Bistro
What’s it going to be? The croquemonsieur with ham and cheese on toasted brioche and topped with mornay sauce ($19) or the
It’s tucked way back in Sawgrass Country Club but worth the drive exploring the tony gated community. Casual but also somewhat upscale (this is Ponte Vedra, after all), the menu offers a wide variety of fare. Mushroom flatbread with creme fraiche and Oaxaca cheese ($18) and a country ham biscuit with jalapeño jelly share space with a 14 oz. ribeye steak ($59) and grilled salmon with green beans. The interior is bright and airy with views of the adjacent pickelball courts and golf course. The patio is ideal for a cold beer or two.
Cruisers Grill
Laid back in true Jax Beach style, Cruisers always satisfies with a sizable portions of everything from aged cheddar French fries ($10) and deep-fried cauliflower tossed in Buffalo wing sauce to the 1/2-pound Wagyu smash burger ($20) and shrimp tacos. The marinated chicken sandwich is a perennial top seller, and for good reason. A seat at the front bar provides great people watching opportunities, as locals, surfers and vacationers file in for lunch and dinner. On a hot day, there’s nothing more satisfying than a root beer or Cheerwine float ($9).
^
bb’s
One of the most beloved and enduring restaurants in Jacksonville is bb’s, a smart and stylish dining destination conveniently located a minute’s drive from Downtown. Serving lunch and dinner throughout the week and brunch on weekends, their creatively conceived menu, well stocked bar and appealing wine list attracts a lively crowd, many staying late on Friday and Saturday nights. With lavish praise for dishes including Salmon Wontons ($16), Classic Caesar with Crispy Calamari ($19) and Pork Chops ($40), bb’s has been satisfying locals and visitors alike for years. The white truffle pizza, crispy crab cake sandwich, and fried green tomato sandwich are pretty great, as well. Of course, insiders know that desserts, especially their incredibly rich and alluring cakes, from Peanut Butter Mousse and Carrot to Chocolate Ganache and Red Velvet Cheesecake, make every visit a pleasure. u
Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Wine Tasting Gala THURSDAY,
MARCH 5, 2026
VyStar Ballpark
The Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Wine Tasting Gala is stepping up to the plate for an unforgettable evening at VyStar Ballpark. The gala will be held at the home of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, offering guests a new venue to sip, savor and support families tackling childhood cancer. With its spacious concourse, classic architectural charm, and nods to baseball’s golden era, VyStar Ballpark promises a nostalgic, open-air experience perfect for an elevated night of food, wine and philanthropy.
Sponsor benefits include an exclusive reception inside the Miller Electric Center, the training facility for the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jay Fund is grateful to the Jaguars for their continued partnership and for this opportunity to explore a space that few fans can enter. Sponsors will enjoy a tour of the facility’s restricted team areas plus cocktails and light bites in the Player Dining Hall that overlooks the stunning practice field.
Guests at the gala will mingle with local celebrities while savoring hundreds of fine and artisanal wines curated by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, along with inspired dishes from more than 30 of Northeast Florida’s top restaurants. From coastal flavors to southern staples and global bites, the
culinary lineup is crafted to delight both seasoned gourmets and curious newcomers.
All proceeds from the evening support families who have a child with cancer. Founded in 1996 by two-time Super Bowlwinning head coach Tom Coughlin, the Jay Fund provides critical financial, emotional and practical assistance to help families focus on their sick child.
“When a child is diagnosed with cancer, everyday life can turn upside down,” says Keli Coughlin Joyce, CEO of the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund. “We work to ensure families can remain in their homes, keep their pantries stocked and manage essential bills while navigating the unimaginable. When we surround a family with support, we want them to feel one thing above all else—that they’re not facing this alone.”
To date, the Jay Fund has provided more than $38 million in assistance to over 7,000 families. On March 5, we invite you to BE THERE—ready to enjoy an extraordinary night at Jacksonville’s hometown ballpark. Join us in raising a glass to hope, strength and the families who inspire us every day.
To purchase tickets, please visit tcjayfund.org/wine.
Poured With Purpose
JUSTIN Wines
JUSTIN Wines returns to the Wine Tasting Gala with a continued commitment to both excellence and community. Recognized for its New World, Bordeaux-style wines, JUSTIN has earned top honors around the globe while maintaining a deep belief that strong communities are built through shared purpose.
“We are honored to partner with the Jay Fund,” says Molly Scott, Senior Director of Grower & Community Relations at JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery. “We’re proud to invest in an organization that uplifts and strengthens the community so no one faces childhood cancer alone.”
JUSTIN donates custom-etched 1.5L Cabernet Sauvignon bottles to each restaurant sponsor—keepsakes many proudly display as a symbol of their enduring support for the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund and its mission.
MINDFUL POURS
Reflecting the growing interest in mindful, inclusive drinking, the Gala will feature a selection of non-alcoholic wines alongside traditional pours. Today’s alcohol-removed wines offer nuanced aromas and layered flavors—inviting guests to savor the ritual of tasting without alcohol. Gala attendees can explore standout options below:
• Seaglass Pinot Grigio NA
• Seaglass Sauvignon Blanc NA
• Mionetto Alcohol Removed Sparkling Wine
• Josh Cellars Sparkling Wine NA
• Luminara Cabernet Sauvignon Alcohol Removed
• Luminara Chardonnay Alcohol Removed
• Kyle Minogue Sparkling Rosé
Art of the Cocktail
The Sponsor Reception will feature the artistry of Armando Rosario, an internationally acclaimed Master Mixologist. With more than three decades of experience, Rosario is guided by his philosophy to “Make It Fresh and Keep It Simple.” His work has taken him from New York to Las Vegas and earned national recognition from The Wall Street Journal, Cheers—which named him “The Best Bartender in America”—and beyond. Now based in Orlando as Executive Director of Mixology for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, Rosario brings his signature style to the Wine Tasting Gala, crafting specialty cocktails that set an elevated, celebratory tone for the evening. “The Jay Fund is such a beloved charity with real world impact on the lives of so many kids that I feel privileged and thankful to be part of it,” says Rosario.
Each year, the Wine Tasting Gala pairs dishes from Jacksonville’s best restaurants with thoughtfully selected wines to create an experience that is memorable and meaningful. The event is a powerful example of what happens when a community comes together in support of families facing childhood cancer.
This special evening would not be possible without the guests who attend, the wineries who bring their passion to every pour, the restaurants who share their time and talent, and the sponsors who help bring the event to life.
We are deeply grateful to our longstanding partner, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, for their continued dedication to our mission and the vital role they play in making the Wine Tasting Gala one of Jacksonville’s most anticipated events.
Because of this collective generosity, the Wine Tasting Gala has raised more than $4.6 million over the past 22 years to support families during their most challenging moments. We hope you will join us for this special evening and be part of its continued impact.
With gratitude,
No One Fights Alone: When Childhood Cancer Strikes, the Jay Fund is There
Two weeks after Alex and Harlee unlocked the front door to their first home, the future they imagined inside its walls vanished. Their youngest son, Zechariah, was just eight months old when doctors diagnosed him with leukemia.
The joy of becoming homeowners quickly gave way to hospital rooms, chemotherapy schedules and an overwhelming sense of fear. Zechariah’s diagnosis came with serious medical complications, and each update seemed heavier than the last.
The family lives an hour and a half from Zechariah’s treatment center, making everyday life a cycle of long drives, exhaustion and emotional strain. Harlee took a leave of absence from work to remain at Zechariah’s side, often spending nights sleeping in his hospital room. Alex continued working to maintain an income while trying to keep life steady for their six-year-old son, Killian, whose routine and sense of security had been completely upended.
“We had spent our entire savings on buying our home,” Harlee says. “When we lost my income, we had no idea how we would pay our mortgage. We were terrified we would become homeless.”
That fear was met with compassion when the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund reached out.
“When the Jay Fund contacted us, they immediately felt like family,” Harlee says. “They told us, ‘We’re going to help you with your house payment.’”
The Jay Fund stepped in to cover the family’s mortgage, offering stability when everything else felt uncertain. The support went beyond financial relief. During long hospital stays, the Jay Fund provided meals, easing one more burden from the family’s shoulders. For Killian, who struggled to understand why life had changed so dramatically, the Jay Fund offered programs and outings that restored structure, connection, and joy.
Amid the exhaustion and fear, Harlee says the family has also witnessed profound blessings—in the care provided by doctors and nurses, and in the steady presence of the Jay Fund.
“Even through all of the struggle and living a nightmare, we have been blessed,” she says.
Faith and gratitude guide the family’s outlook. Their motto is one they live by daily.
“God doesn’t give us a miracle to stay quiet,” Harlee says. “If my story brings light to childhood cancer, we’re going to keep sharing our story.”
Recently, the family attended the Jay Fund’s holiday party, surrounded by others who understood their journey without explanation—a reminder that they are not alone.
As Zechariah continues treatment, the family moves forward with hope, strengthened by a community committed to being there. Support from the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Wine Tasting Gala helps ensure families like theirs never face childhood cancer alone—providing stability, compassion, and hope when it is needed most. u
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COMPANIES
with heart 2026
Annual salute to Northeast Florida businesses that consider community pride, charitable causes and giving back all part of a successful organization.
Each year for more than a decade, Jacksonville Magazine has recognized local businesses, both big and small, that undertake extraordinary community outreach efforts. Those efforts can be through volunteering, monetary donations or countless other activities. The only thing we ask is that the company-created initiatives help make Northeast Florida a better place to call home.
All of the twenty businesses highlighted for 2026 are making a positive impact on our city and region. Though the industries they represent are varied, and they range in size from 50 employees to more than 15,000, each make real and measurable positive contributions—and they do so as part of their operating philosophy. Posted on the following pages are short profiles of this year’s honored companies, including highlights of specific actions undertaken over the past year, as well as how they plan to continue their charitable efforts in 2026. Well done and congratulations.
Auld & White Constructors
Number of Employees: 195
At Auld & White Constructors, success is measured by more than completed projects—it’s defined by the strength of the community they help build. Each year, the company supports more than 40 local nonprofit organizations through a combination of financial contributions and hands-on volunteer service, reinforcing a long-standing commitment to Northeast Florida.
This year, Auld & White Constructors is the presenting sponsor of the inaugural Run for the Rolls 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run, hosted at its Jacksonville headquarters. The event honors the memory of a cherished member of the extended AWC family and raises funds for The Compassionate Friends, an organization dedicated to providing hope and healing to families grieving the loss of a child.
Ascension St. Vincent’s
Number of Employees: Approx. 5,300
Philanthropy reflects Ascension St. Vincent’s mission to serve all people, especially those who are poor and vulnerable. Through the Mobile Health Outreach Ministry, nearly 9,534 adult and pediatric visits were provided, representing more than $2.5 million in medical care value. Additionally, over $820,000 in support was delivered to 2,756 patients for transportation, infusions, medical equipment, respite care, and dialysis assistance. Volunteerism plays a critical role in community engagement. Volunteers also prepare approximately 1,100 Thanksgiving meals annually for local seniors in need—a tradition now in its 32nd year.
NOTEABLE TEAM MEMBER: Willie Roberts, MSHA, BSN, RN, FCN, Community Outreach and Faith Community Nursing Manager, has dedicated more than 50 years to healthcare service. Since 2014, she has supported more than 1,000 mothers and infants through Ascension St. Vincent’s Brighter Beginnings program, a free monthly initiative aimed at reducing infant mortality in Northeast Florida.
Baptist Health
Number of Employees: 15,698
In fiscal year 2024, Baptist Health provided more than $16.4 million in community benefit projects, $84.4 million in charity care, and $279.9 million in unreimbursed Medicare and Medicaid costs. Services include mobile mammography, JaxCare Connect, the Wellness on Wheels bus, and food recovery programs supporting nearly 1,000 seniors. Volunteerism remains strong, with team members contributing 12,676 volunteer hours in 2024 and raising more than $87,000 through the 2025 First Coast Heart Walk.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: Erin Tracy, BSN, RN, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology RN and Assistant Nurse Manager, Wolfson Children’s Hospital, founded Fourth and Gold, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to accelerating childhood cancer research. Since 2022, the organization has invested more than $500,000 into pediatric cancer research at leading institutions, raising awareness and funding for innovative treatments.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Florida Network Realty
Number of Employees: 50
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has supported Dreams Come True since 2013, donating over $500,000. In 2024, the company donated $40,660 for the annual 5K and staffed the WJXT Channel 4 Phone Bank. In addition, we undertake the annual Holiday Luminarias initiative, donating $20,325 to local organizations, and support over 50 local nonprofits including AB Cares, BEAM, Boy Scouts, Feeding Northeast Florida, K9s for Warriors, and Pine Castle.
Coastal Wealth
Number of Employees: 65
Coastal Wealth measures success by the tangible impact of its collective efforts. Environmental initiatives include an annual Earth Day Beach Cleanup, with success measured by waste collected, volunteer participation, and continued engagement. Philanthropic efforts include financial and in-kind support for causes such as Hurricane Melissa relief in Jamaica and Feeding America food drives. Arts and culture support includes partnerships with organizations like the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts.
CTI Resource Management Services
Number of employees: 48
As part of its environmental stewardship efforts, CTI utilizes government computers and equipment. When the equipment
needs to be replaced, the it is turned in to a supply area at NAS Jacksonville where they are either re-used or recycled. Once CTI owned computer equipment needs to be replaced, we contact a local company to come out to shred the hard drives and take all of the equipment to a recycling center. We also offer employees the opportunity to keep the old computer if they wish to do so.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: Darrin Bauford has been with CTI for 20 years. She has always been one of the first employees to step up and volunteer for everything in which CTI participates She volunteers a tremendous amount of time in the community—at her church, charity walks, luncheons, tutoring kids and more.
Ennis, Pellum & Associates, CPAs
Number of Employees: 46
Each year, company staff participate in volunteer projects including Children’s Home Society apartment cleanups, Thanksgiving baskets via United Way and Duval County Full-Service Schools, Farm Share Jacksonville, and other local outreach programs. Team members participate in local arts and culture initiatives and company leaders serve as treasurer for organizations such as the Florida Theatre and North Florida Archers. In addition, they contribute to multiple organizations via fundraisers, payroll donation programs, and a bake-off benefiting The Clay County Humane Society.
Florida Capital Bank
Number of Employees: 126
Volunteerism is a core focus at Florida Capital Bank, with employees participating in holiday gift programs for foster children, meal preparation, mock interviews, and other service initiatives. Engagement spans all levels of the organization, from executives to entry-level staff. The company measures success through meaningful engagement and lasting impact. Employees are eligible for up to 40 hours of paid volunteer time annually. Some of the local non-profit organization Florida Capital plans to contribute to in 2026 include Family First, Operation New Hope, JROTC at Raines High School, Dress for Success, Rethreaded, We Care, and Family Support Services’ “Be An Angel” Program. The bank will continue providing financial support and on-site professional assistance to help these organizations grow and better serve the families and individuals who rely on them.
Financial Solution Advisors CPA
Number of Employees: 31
This year, Financial Solution Advisors will engage in structured quarterly service initiatives, leadership involvement, and sustained support programs that enhance quality of life across the community, including support for groups such as Beaches Emergency Assistance Services, Volunteers in Medicine, Rethreaded, Episcopal Children’s Services, University of North Florida, Ponte Vedra Rotary, Step Up for Students, and Trinity College of Jacksonville.
Florida Blue
Number of Employees: 5,159
GuideWell and Florida Blue measure success by helping people and communities achieve better health. Since 2020, grants have included $16.3 million to improve health outcomes, $19 million for food security—serving more than 200 million meals—and $22 million supporting mental well-being initiatives reaching nearly 60,000 individuals. Volunteerism is equally central, with employees contributing more than 60,000 volunteer hours in 2024. Florida Blue offers up to eight hours of Volunteer Time Off annually, and its Employee Giving Campaign contributed $3.2 million to 174 local United Way organizations.
The Florida Blue Foundation focuses on food security, mental well-being, and health literacy, supporting local organizations through strategic funding and volunteer engagement. In 2026, it will continue aligning its mission with community health needs through charitable giving, volunteer service, and partnerships that strengthen the First Coast. Feeding Northeast Florida, LIFT JAX, Jacksonville Symphony, Cathedral Arts Project, and Children’s Home Society are among the many organizations it will support this year.
Hylant
Number of employees: 1,300
At Hylant of Jacksonville, giving back isn’t just encouraged—it’s embedded in our culture. With over 300 service hours logged this year alone, our team actively supports causes that matter most to our employees. What makes the company’s approach special is the flexibility offered: employees are encouraged to volunteer during business hours without being docked for their time. This commitment ensures that everyone has the chance to make a difference—whether it’s supporting a local nonprofit, mentoring youth, or helping at a community event—while still fulfilling their professional responsibilities.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBERS: Our success as a team is attributed to our dedicated Volunteer Committee which includes Dave Holden , Val Ratchev , Bridget Davis , Michelle Shelor and Trista Allison . Their dedication and organization empower our team to make the greatest possible impact. By cultivating strong, successful relationships with our community partners, they ensure that our initiatives are both effective and sustainable.
Jimerson Birr
Among Jimmerson Birr’s many community involvement initiatives are monthly service projects and park cleanups, including work at Memorial Park in partnership with the 5 Points Association. The firm also makes financial contributions and hands-on initiatives, including Hope Haven summer camp and Winter Care Kits for the Sulzbacher Center. Its Valentines for Seniors program delivers handmade cards and gifts to nursing home residents and veterans. And employees participate in monthly projects such as park cleanups, care kit assembly, Toys for Tots donations, and blood drives.
Jimmerson Birr’s Talent Acquisition Team coordinates all monthly service projects, managing planning, communication, logistics, and volunteer participation, enabling consistent, meaningful service and strengthening both team morale and community impact. For 2026, the firm will contribute to the efforts of Builders Care through the Northeast Florida Builders Association. Plans are to provide volunteer labor and financial assistance for a residential accessibility ramp project, organize an employee volunteer day, and use the firm’s expertise to raise awareness of accessibility needs while measuring impact.
LandSouth Construction
Number of Employees: 72
LandSouth operates under a Charitable Giving Mission Statement focused on supporting children and families in need. The company partners with numerous local nonprofits, with members of the executive team serving on several nonprofit boards. Philanthropic initiatives include packing 250 backpacks and donating art supplies to Lake Lucina Elementary School. LandSouth sponsored the Once Upon A Room Halloween event at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, distributing costumes and gift bags to hospitalized children.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: Dana Webb, Chair of LandSouth’s Charitable Giving Footprint and Vice President of Finance, energized and unified employees throughout the year, creating volunteer shirts to promote engagement and camaraderie. Under her leadership, the LandSouth team participated in multiple Habitat for Humanity builds, Boys & Girls Club events, and Hunger Fight meal-packing.
Office Images
Number of Employees: 90
Office Images measures success by the tangible and lasting impact its philanthropy, arts initiatives, and volunteer efforts have on the Jacksonville community. The Jacksonville studio contributes financially to organizations that support education, economic development, and social services, including Jacksonville Alliance for Kipp Schools, Boys and Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida, and Fresh Ministries.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: Market President Madelen Salter serves on multiple boards and committees, including the JAX Chamber Board of Directors, JAXUSA Partnership Policy Council, Leadership Jacksonville, Build Up Downtown, and San Marco Preservation Society. She is mission-driven, advocates for clients, partners, and teams, and demonstrates a deep commitment to community service.
Riverside Homes
Number of Employees: 45
Community involvement is deeply personal for the Riverside Homes team, whose members extend their commitment beyond sales, design, and construction to embody the company’s mission of being more than a homebuilder and creating lasting positive impact. The company’s philosophy of “Building with Heart” guides its approach to success, which is measured not only by exceptional customer service and high-quality home design, but also by the strength and reach of its community and social responsibility initiatives.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: Matt Birdwell, President of Riverside Homes Custom Division, spearheaded the inaugural Riverside Homes Clay Shoot, raising $33,220 for Inheritance of Hope.
Stellar
Number of Employees: 859
Volunteerism and education are central to Stellar’s mission, with mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities provided through ACE Mentorship programs and the NEASE Academy of Engineering. Additional volunteer efforts include fulfilling PedsCare Christmas wish lists and organizing food and toy drives. Health and wellness are emphasized through a Fitness & Nutrition Center, wellness programs, and recognition as a Platinum First Coast Healthiest Companies award recipient.
Stellar measures success through sustained impact across environmental stewardship, philanthropy, education, and employee well-being. Environmental initiatives include sustainable construction practices, recycling programs, and LEED-certified projects. Philanthropic support spans numerous local organizations, including the Jacksonville Zoo, MOSH, YMCA, Food Brings Hope, UF Health, and Dreams Come True.
THE PLAYERS Championship / PGA TOUR
Number of Employees: 1,400
Since its inception, THE PLAYERS has generated more than $120 million in charitable contributions, benefiting over 300 local nonprofit organizations. Support is prioritized for causes
centered on youth services, education, character development, health and wellness, sports, and military support. Arts and culture initiatives are supported through two grant programs that fund community-based arts, education, and cultural enrichment efforts. In the past year alone, more than 67 grants were awarded to organizations strengthening the region’s creative and civic fabric.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: As Volunteer Chair, Tyler Oldenburg led a team of more than 2,000 volunteers who collectively contributed over 68,000 community service hours in support of the tournament and its charitable mission.
Turner Pest Control
Number of Employees: 646
As a family-founded company, Turner Pest Control views giving back as a core part of its identity. Despite significant growth, the organization remains deeply committed to its “family” of customers and employees, contributing to the quality of life across the communities it serves. In 2025, Turner Pest Control partnered with United Way of Northeast Florida and First Coast News as a corporate sponsor of the Stuff the Bus initiative, helping collect more than 36,000 school supplies and raising nearly $10,000 in donations.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: Radheya Ponce is a passionate communications professional who uses her photography and storytelling skills to amplify nonprofit missions and community initiatives. She volunteered during the first-ever Northeast Florida Missing Child Rescue Operation and played a key role in Turner’s 2025 Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
VyStar Credit Union
Number of Employees: 2,300
VyStar employees contributed 35,832 hours in 2025 and served on 158 nonprofit boards. More than $7 million was contributed to 400+ nonprofits in 2024, focusing on military, youth empowerment, and community building. In addition, the company provided 20,776 free admissions to cultural institutions and sponsored major arts programs including FSCJ Artist Series, Jacksonville Symphony, and the Museum of Science & History.
One local non-profit organization VyStar plans to contribute to in 2026 is the Jacksonville Public Education Fund. The credit union will sponsor JPEF’s Eddy Awards, recognize educators at a Jacksonville Icemen game, and amplify awareness and appreciation for teachers.
Wingard
JACKSONVILLE MAGAZINE
Number of Employees: 22 Volunteerism is encouraged through two paid volunteer days per employee each year, with an optional $250 charitable donation incentive. In 2025, employees volunteered with Feeding Northeast Florida, Goodwill, The DONNA Foundation, and the Five Points Association, as well as with individual causes including the Jacksonville Arts & Music School, animal welfare organizations, voter registration efforts, and mentorship programs.
NOTABLE TEAM MEMBER: Carley Farill has been instrumental in Wingard’s work with the Five Points Association. Her passion for the neighborhood, commitment to supporting local businesses, and welcoming presence have energized the community. Through creative social media initiatives and hands-on support of the Funky Fridays event series, Carley has played a key role in contributing to the success of Five Points businesses. u
YOU MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO LEARN WHAT SOME OF OUR LOCAL INSITUTIONS CONSIDER THEIR MOST PRIZED POSSESSIONS.
Right at the MUSEUM
More than just a collection of rare or valuable items or a visually striking building, a museum is a living entity, a place were people gather to learn, be entertained and, perhaps every once in a while, be awed. Northeast Florida is home to a number of such places where art and history come to life. Recently, we reached out to several local museums and asked a simple to understand but difficult to answer question: If you had to select one item in your institution’s collection that best represents it and its mission, what would it be?
For some like the St. Augustine Lighthouse and the USS Orleck , the initial answers were, respectively, the striped tower itself and the retired US Navy destroyer. Certainly, in the case of these two historical attractions, those were fitting replies. However, we asked each to modify their answers, stating the subject needed to be an object and not the whole lighthouse or ship. The idea was too dig a little deeper, to better understand something about all of the museums, the roles they play in the community and the continuing missions for which they dedicate their efforts. From small porcelain statues to historic memorabilia to notable paintings, the items they selected were as varied as the museums themselves. Here, we highlight the institutions and the one item you must seek out during your next visit.
MOCA JACKSONVILLE
The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA), a vibrant asset of the University of North Florida, is committed to providing engaging contemporary art experiences to visitors. At the heart of the museum sits a cavernous, three-story atrium. At 40 feet high and 30 feet wide, it is one of the most commanding spaces in the museum. Since 2011, this space has been home to MOCA’s Project Atrium series. While not a single work of art in our collection, it is distinctly MOCA. Project Atrium is a series of highly engaging site-specific installations that immediately make an impact on visitors by uplifting local artists and bringing artists from around the world to Northeast Florida.
The series began as a communitybased project, Imagination Squared, which exhibited nearly a thousand square canvases created by local residents— from professional artists to young children. Since that first installation, Project Atrium has been focused on uplifting the work of emerging and mid-career artists, giving them a platform and an experience that often pushes the boundaries of what they have done before. The unique placement, dimensions, and scale of the space provide a compelling challenge—a call to reinvention and an active collaboration with the architecture of the museum on a monumental scale.
—AMBER SESNICK, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
LIGHTNER MUSEUM
RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT!
While this is not the most shocking or the flashiest piece in our collection, this sculpture is one that I feel represents our brand. It is full of color and life, it is something that all ages can find happiness in. It is quirky and made from something very unexpected—telephone poles—and it has movement and life. The Venus fly traps in back open and close. These are all traits that Ripley’s wants when it comes to entertaining guests. Our attractions should be colorful, quirky, odd, unexpected, fun for everyone and full of life and color. In the end, it brings a smile to everyone who sees it—which is what we are all about.
—KIM KIFF, GENERAL MANAGER
This striking porcelain sculpture of an ape was created by German sculptor Arthur Storch for the 1921 Leipzig Fair in Germany. The fair’s exhibition hall for porcelain and fine ceramics was designed by Berlin architect Hans Poelzig and his wife Marlene Moeschke. To complement their design, Storch was commissioned to produce a series of large, polychromed porcelain sculptures featuring animals and mythical creatures.
Storch’s Ape reflects the eclectic nature of the Lightner Museum collection. Originally founded as the Lightner Museum of Hobbies, the museum’s roots are in the early twentieth-century American hobbyist movement. Otto Lightner, the museum’s founder, was a passionate advocate for hobbies, promoting their joys and benefits through his magazine, for Collectors. While Lightner promoted a wide range of hobbies—from stamp and cigar label collecting to handicrafts—he also had the means to build a vast personal collection. His acquisitions spanned fine and decorative arts, natural history specimens, and Americana from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
—DAVID BOGNALL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Arthur Storch (German, 1870-1947), Ape, 1920, Polychrome painted porcelain Photograph by Rob Futrell
BEACHES MUSEUM
In the lobby of the Beaches Museum hangs a large painting by A.E. Backus. For us, this likely is the most valuable piece in our collection, but it hits on a few other important areas. Having previously hung at the Oceanic Hotel, which was owned by the family of our founder and ultimately torn down as Jacksonville Beach developed. Owned by the McCormick family, McCormick & Sons were known as the “Builders of the Beaches.” The painting was given to the museum by Jean McCormick, specifically to hang in the lobby of the “new” Beaches Museum.
According to the Backus Museum and Gallery, Albert Ernest “Bean” Backus (1906-1990) was a largely self-taught artist from Fort Pierce, Florida who created iconic images of the timeless beauty of the Florida landscape. Whether in the glades, the beaches, the rivers, the savannas, or the back country, his paintings capture a unique sense of place that is instantly recognizable and beloved. Praised and renowned as an exceptional artist in the regionalist tradition, he was also a mentor and advocate for countless people in his lifetime, and is remembered today both for his artistic accomplishments and altruistic spirit. The painting hangs in the Museum’s lobby, designed to resemble that of an old beach hotel, for all our visitors and guests to enjoy.
—CHRISTINE HOFFMAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
JACKSONVILLE NAVAL MUSEUM
Operation: The Purloined Pin-Up is one of the most entertaining moralebuilding traditions to emerge from the post-World War II U.S. Navy, and it comes vividly to life aboard the USS Orleck . From the late 1940s through the 1950s, destroyers of the Asiatic Fleet waged good-natured “combat” over a framed pin-up photo of Hollywood star Esther Williams, whose image became a coveted trophy passed between ships by stealth, guile, and outright raids. Governed by formal rules, marked by a distinctive pennant flown in port, the Esther Williams tradition boosted camaraderie and esprit de corps among sailors far from home. The Orleck herself played a starring role, famously capturing Esther from the USS Floyd in Sasebo Harbor. Today, the exhibit highlights this unique blend of humor, rivalry, and naval culture—offering visitors a glimpse into the lighter side of life at sea and the bonds that sustained sailors during long deployments.
—CREW OF THE USS ORLECK
ST. AUGUSTINE LIGHTHOUSE AND
MARITIME MUSEUM
The original 1st order Fresnel lens represents the most critical object in the Lighthouse collection. The lens is original to the Lighthouse, standing nine feet tall, comprised of 370 prisms, weighing roughly two tons, and manufactured in Paris, in the 1870s specifically for the St. Augustine Lighthouse. As an object, it is still in operation today, just as it was 151 years ago. The lens has seen lots of changes over time, including changes to fuel sources that power the light (whale oil, kerosene, vaporized kerosene and electricity).
The technology for the Fresnel lens design goes back to the 1820s in France. The lens can capture at least 70% of the total light from a source for projection. Each lens has specific prisms above and below the light source that redirect the light. The light is also amplified by 3 bullseye lens panels that can project the light 24 miles off the coast.
Our glasswork is a magnificent piece of our Lighthouse history, having been cleaned, polished, and maintained by every Lighthouse keeper who worked in St. Augustine. If the keepers failed to take care of the lens, then the Lighthouse failed to protect mariners. These keepers maintained the light every night, 365 days a year. With advancements in technology, the relevance of the St. Augustine Lighthouse diminished. As a result, the tower and lens fell into disrepair. In 1986, 19 of the prisms were damaged by a vandal and the lens was taken out of operation.
In the 1990s the Junior Service League of St. Augustine made it a priority to restore our first order Fresnel lens, something which had never been done before. However, the manufacturing technology was lost and had to be redeveloped. What began as a tragedy became a path for other lenses to be restored across this country. This effort set the foundation for our mission to preserve the Lighthouse and its historic light for future generations.
—JASON TITCOMB, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS
Because of the breadth of its permanent collection, the Cummer Museum has the unique opportunity to explore both historic and contemporary creative expression across media and geography. It isn’t unusual for today’s artists to reflect upon past styles and trends to provide meaning to and commentary about our own moment. Take, for example, the Cummer Museum’s collection of early Meissen porcelain, regarded as one of the top three of its kind in the world and the most significant in the United States. Today, porcelain is a common material. In the 18th century, when Meissen became the first European firm to make porcelain, it was a major scientific, technological, and artistic advancement; one that reflected status, diplomacy, trade, and perfection. Today these objects are viewed through a museum lens, as static objects protected behind glass. Expanding upon those associations, contemporary Korean ceramicist Yeesookung created Translated Vase which binds broken pieces of porcelain tableware with gold leaf and epoxy, creating new objects that are visually reminiscent of calcified shipwreck discoveries or the Japanese technique of mending broken pottery, called kintsukugi. She explains, “The master potter was trying to create the perfect piece each time, and he would discard even the ones with the slightest flaw. So I chose to create new forms from them, because perhaps, I don’t believe completely in that kind of perfection. To me, a piece of broken ceramic finds another piece, and they come to rely on one another.” Translated Vase is a wonderful example of the Cummer Museum’s mission in that it provides visitors with a new way of looking at older objects and allows for a rich discussion about form, function, meaning, beauty, and connection.
—HOLLY KERIS, J. WAYNE & DELORES BARR WEAVER CHIEF CURATOR
JACKSONVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
In the spring of 1929, a small group of Jacksonville citizens gathered to organize a historical society dedicated to preserving the city’s heritage. Members began collecting books, photographs, papers, and memorabilia—materials that would become the foundation of our archival collection, the Jacksonville History Collection. The first meeting was held on May 3, 1929, at the Carling Hotel (later the Roosevelt Hotel)—a fitting date, marking the 28th anniversary of the Great Fire of 1901.
The photo of Mayor J.E.T. Bowden smoking a cigar while looking over the devastation of the Great Fire of 1901 encapsulates what the Jacksonville History Center treats as one of the pivotal events of the big 203-year arc of Jacksonville’s history. It also speaks to the strength of the collection, particularly about the city’s early history.
with funds from Miss
MANDARIN MUSEUM
Mandarin Museum is devoted to sharing the stories of the community’s history, culture, and natural resources. Foundational to this mission is the museum’s archives, filled with documents and objects that call to mind Mandarin’s bygone “Old Florida” era. This sense of nostalgia is bolstered by the museum’s place in Walter Jones Historical Park, a 10-acre City of Jacksonville park that is home to a towering canopy of old oaks, pines, magnolias, and cypress and nineteenth-century buildings that speak to the once rural nature of the community. Harriet Beecher Stowe, famed author of the 1852 anti-slavery novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin, spent seventeen winters as a Mandarin resident and aptly described her adopted state as follows: “Florida, like a piece of embroidery, has two sides to it—one side all tag-rag and thrums, without order or position; and the other side showing flowers and arabesques and brilliant coloring… There is a right side and a wrong side to everything.” However, both sides taken together, she mused, inculcated “a sort of tumble-down, wild, picnicky kind of life—this general happy-go-luckiness…”
Though most known for creating imagery with her words, Harriet Beecher Stowe was also a gifted painter. Her original oil on fabric depiction of the area’s southern magnolia blossoms, painted circa 1883, represents a convergence of all the aforementioned, and demonstrates the significance of Mandarin Museum’s collection. As with her writing, Stowe rendered her magnolias as a means to improve her community. Stitched into the center of a quilt made and raffled by Stowe and the women of the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour, the proceeds helped fund the construction of their first church building that same year. The Episcopal Church of Our Saviour is still an active congregation today. Located a half mile west of Mandarin Museum, the church was damaged in 1964 by Hurricane Dora. Remnants of the 1883 structure remain, fortified by a 1965 rebuild honoring the original design and architecture. u
—ALAN S. BLISS, CEO
Yeesookyung (Korean, b. 1963), Translated Vase, 2013, ceramic shards, epoxy, 24 karat gold leaf, 27 x 26 x 27 in.
Purchased
Constance I. and Mr. Ralph H. Wark and Mr. Patrick Hayes, AP. 2022.1.1
Harriet Beecher Stowe, Untitled, c. 1883, oil on silk, 24 x 22 inches, Mandarin Museum, Jacksonville, Florida.
SOLID AS A ROCK
the home stands proud at the corner of Avondale and Riverside avenues. When the light is just right, the exterior white marble practically shimmers, bright and smooth as the icing on a grand wedding cake. The historic neighborhood in which it sits is awash with beautiful houses, many greater than 100 years old. While that’s true, few carry the immediate recognition of this residence. Say the words “Marble House” and nearly everyone living in Riverside and Avondale will know exactly what corner one is talking about.
Peter and Carol Blumeyer purchased the dwelling in the summer of 2016. The couple spent the next few years updating portions of the interior and exterior, as well as making it truly their home with personal touches added throughout. It goes without saying that a structure that’s nearly 100 years old is going to need some work here and there. Actually, a lot of work.
An historic neighborhood flush with stunning residences has but one Marble House.
PHOTOS BY ANDY VARNES
"The pendant lights were the extra bit of whimsy that pulled it all together, the custom metal finish matched the stone perfectly and the little bells on the fixtures were the cherry on top."
“The largest offender in the home was the guest bathroom because it was the 1927 original,” recalls Carol. “It took four months to remove the tile and hand-scrape eight inches of concrete below the tile.”
The kitchen needed much work, as well. In fact, it took some seven years of contemplation and, eventually, action to get the space just right.
“The kitchen had been remodeled in the early 2000s,” Carol continues. “It was quite peculiar, as one side had a large stainless steel wash area that looked like something you would see in the back of a commercial kitchen. The other side featured elaborate woodwork with a coat of arms and griffins. A lot of space was taken up by columns and posts on the sides of the lower cabinets and island.”
In January of 2024, Carol reached out Nicole Houser, owner of San Marco-based NLH Design and someone she knew from previous projects, following a scare she had while carrying a heavy Le Crueset casserole dish up from the basement, an unusual space in a Florida home and one that was being utilized as storage for extra dishes and kitchen essentials. Following the guidance of the designer, they were able gain additional cabinet space for storage and even make the room appear much larger by removing an unnecessary door and better utilizing the room’s layout—including a convenient cat feeding station to keep the home’s feline residents happy and well fed.
“The previous owners had gone through a remodeling of the kitchen, and it was full of heavy, painted black cabinets with millwork detail that overpowered the room,” recalls the designer. “The house is full of natural light and even with the windows open, it still felt dark and dated.” Houser previously contributed to interior projects in the home's family room, dining room and guest bathroom while working for Ellen Dyal Interiors, a business she took charge of in 2023.
“Nicole took me to choose the cabinets and island, appliances and plumbing fixtures and all the marble for the countertops, island and backsplash. Her design for my range hood is absolutely stunning,” says Carol. “When we decided to remodel the kitchen, my husband’s request was to include the small downstairs powder room. It was definitely in need of change, but this meant living without running water in the downstairs for several months. Moving out wasn’t an option because we had too many pets. I didn’t have any idea how to improve it.”
Fortunately, her designer did. Bold wallpaper was selected for the walls and a new black and white marble sink and fixtures were installed. The result is a much more dramatic and inviting space, all contained within a room the same size as before.
“Our contractors unearthed three layers of different flooring materials in the demolition phase of the renovation of the kitchen in 2024 and in the upstairs guest bathroom renovation in 2016. Just seeing the variety of materials made you dream up a story of what the space looked like in its previous lives,” says Houser.
““My favorite space is the kitchen,” she continues. “I was adamant about finding a star piece of marble for the island top that we then used for the backsplash behind the range. The stone was sourced with the help of a local supplier that we hand-selected from a stone yard in Richmond, Virginia. A lot of homes are using manmade quartz, and I just couldn’t bring myself to select manmade materials for the “Marble House”… I would die on that hill!”
due to its prominent location, the Marble House has been one of the most well-known symbols of Avondale elegance since the time of its completion. It is an interesting variation of the Mediterranean Revival style, with classical elements such as the ornate entrance porch and a balustrade across the terrace.” So writes author Wayne Wood in his book, Jacksonville’s Architectural Heritage. A half-page is devoted to the Bryson Residence, built in 1927-1928.
“I did feel a lot of pressure to do the house justice with our design and finish selections,” says Houser. “The level of detail in the millwork existing throughout the home was exquisite. I just had to trust my gut and dive into the project. Nerves quickly took a back seat to excitement for the opportunity to work on the home.”
"We wanted to keep the existing marble exterior untouched and had to think of clever solutions for storage in the kitchen with the use of open metal and glass shelving in the windows."
“The most unusual feature of the house is its exterior veneer, which is marble quarried in Georgia,” the description in Jacksonville’s Architectural Heritage continues. “Most of the ornamentation on the facade is also marble, including the cartouches that flank the upstairs balcony, the arched bas-relief panels over the French doors, and the frieze on the entry porch. The residence was originally built at a cost of over $70,000 for contractor Walter Bryson, who had to sell the house shortly after completion due to the ‘crash’ at the end of the Florida Land Boom.”
“Furnishing the house was a tricky job. We brought furniture with us that was from a much larger home,” says Carol. “I depended on Nicole to help me decide which pieces of furniture worked and where. She painstakingly brought fabric samples to recover furniture and blend in with the upholstered pieces that I did not want to change. Two of my favorite pieces from my prior residence were two benches because I love the upholstery and Lucite legs.”
Upstairs, another room required the attention of the homeowners. This time it wasn’t because something was outdated or in need of repair. No, on Father’s Day of 2024, Carol and Peter learned they were going to be grandparents to a baby boy. After some time contemplating colors and furniture options, it was decided Nicole’s insight was needed once again.
“She took all the guess work out of the process and the result is truly handsome. Nicole advised on all the furniture pieces including the glider, the most comfortable chair in either of our homes. From drapes, rugs, pillows and wall art all the way down to the bed sheets, she worked tirelessly to decorate the nursery in only a few months,” recalls Carol. “The fabrics she presented were perfect for the ‘little Ivy League’ nursery, but also would transition to an older boy so there would be no need for redecoration.”
“The homeowners really did bring this house back to life with the
renovations that it so desperately needed, I was just happy that they chose me to help make it all happen,” says Houser.
“Each Monday morning during the bathroom remodel, my husband would start the day asking, ‘Carol, is it really going to be different?’ I would say, ‘Yes.’ At the end, he could not believe it was the same space and it looks so much larger than before.” Sounds like a job well done, for sure. u
Sources
CABINETS: Johnson’s Cabinetry
TILE AND COUNTERTOPS: Traditions in Tile
WALLPAPER: Phoenix Coverings
LIGHTING: Visual Comfort, Charles Edwards
ELECTRICAL: Adams Electrical
APPLIANCES: Ferguson
WOOD FLOORING: Affordable Carpet and Wood
KITCHEN CHAIRS: Cowtan and Trout, Mrs. Howard
KITCHEN TABLE: Saloom
DRAPERIES: Jim Thompson No. 9, Beacon Hill
CONTRACTORS: Tom Trout, Horn Builders
True Colors
MAKE 2026 THE YEAR YOUR INTERIORS SHINE THROUGH WITH BEAUTIFUL HUES.
BY PAT GILHAM
Are you planning to refresh the interior of your home this year? If so, you might be interested in the paint colors that are predicted to be especially popular in 2026. According to the house paint pros and producers, here are some of the color palettes that will be making a splash in homes and workspaces.
Silhouette. Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year is a rich espresso brown with subtle notes of charcoal. Silhouette is a versatile hue that blends well with warm neutrals, earthy reds, and blues. It has the benefit of being bold, yet it’s a warmer, subtler tone than black or grey.
This elegant shade feels like an instant classic. So, it’s perfect for giving rooms a refined and
timeless look. As it’s a deep and warm, it can be used on walls to create a striking and grownup lounge. You could also use the color on your kitchen cabinets to bring them up to date.
Divine Damson. Graham and Brown’s pick for 2026 is a similar shade. Divine Damson mixes Damson, fig and mulberry notes to create a dark, opulent red that’s capable of adding depth, warmth and luxury to interiors. Go bold and use it to drench a room or bring even more drama to spaces by pairing it with exotic, patterned wallpapers and warm metallics. Use it to create a sumptuous bedroom design or to turn a cold, north-facing room into a warm and welcoming space.
Warm Eucalyptus. Valspar has also gone with
Homes Sweet Homes
a warm tone for its Color of the Year. However, they’ve turned directly to nature for their inspiration. Warm Eucalyptus is an earthy green with a hint of grey that coordinates well with deep browns and pale blues, enabling you to create an interior that’s calm and grounding. The hue is perfect for double-drenching a room with Valspar’s Degas Blue and for creating serene and relaxing bathrooms and bedrooms. This versatile green also works well on cabinetry in kitchens, lounges and bedrooms.
Rhythm of Blues. In a similar vein to Valspar, Dulux have also chosen a soothing palette for 2026. However, they’ve taken a slightly different approach, going for a trio of colors rather than a single shade. Their cool combo, Rhythm of Blues, aims to promote a serene ambience around the home. The trio consists of Slow Swing, a deep, inky blue; Free Groove, a vibrant indigo; and Mellow Flow, a pale greyblue. These three shades, like most of the year’s top picks, have a versatile quality. You could use them together to create a coordinated interior with lots of depth or combine one color with a warm neutral, punchy yellow or crisp white.
Mellow Flow is great for making small spaces feel light and airy, while kitchen cabinets painted in Free Groove will help you stay cool as a cucumber when you’re cooking. Blue is thought to aid concentration, so Slow Swing and Free Groove are also ideal for home offices, garden rooms and yoga spaces.
Secret Safari. Johnstone’s Secret Safari, is a yellow with a touch of green and it evokes an even greater sense of calm. Used on walls and ceilings, the soft olive tones bring a deeper connection to nature, helping to soothe and uplift moods. You could combine Secret Safari with natural wood tones and terracotta browns to create a grounding interior design that suits kitchens, lounges and bedrooms. It also coordinates well with coral pinks and pale blues.
From looking at the many colors of the year, it’s clear that there’s a range of versatile hues set to dominate in 2026. So, you can be sure there’s a shade to suit your project. Thanks to the timeless quality of these trending colors, you can be confident that whatever you go for, it won’t look dated after the year is out. u
One of the Jacksonville’s most beloved springtime traditions is soon to return. Actually, two much loved traditions. The 52nd annual Riverside Avondale Preservation Home Tour is set for the weekend of April 11 and 12. Approximately a dozen private residences open their doors for self-guided tours, all to raise money for the city’s original grassroots neighborhood preservation organization. There’s also a special Preview Twilight Party on Thursday evening. Tour tickets, available online at 904TIX.com, are $25 in advance and $30 on the weekend of the event. In addition, RAP hosts its annual one-day Garden Tour later in the spring. On Saturday, May 6, 10 AM-4 PM, another collection of neighborhood homes welcome visitors into their private garden spaces for an afternoon complete with music, plant sales and more. Garden Tour tickets, also for sale at 904TIX, are $20 in advance, $25 the day of the event. u
DULUX’S RHYTHM OF BLUES
BENJAMIN MOORE’S SILHOUETTE
VALSPAR’S WARM EUCALYPTUS
GRAHAM & BROWN’S DIVINE DAMSON
JOHNSTONE’S SECRET SAFARI
SHALL WE DANCE?
Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2026 is “Cloud Dancer,” an airy white that the Color Institute describes as creating room for focus and creativity. Gentle and uplifting, it brings a sense of clarity to interiors and fashion, working as an easy foundation for both minimal palettes and richer schemes. Here are few example of how you can bring Cloud Dancer into your Northeast Florida home
1. The Maude large storage cabinet ($600) features solid white ash veneer paired with antique brass effect metal handles. Two arched cabinet doors open up to four shelves, on top of two bottom drawers.
2. Fancy a home office upgrade? Look no further than the Solenne White Boucle Swivel Chair ($250). The neutral upholstery is teamed with elegant black metal legs, ensuring that it will fall easily into any interior decor.
3. This timeless flush ceiling light by Laura Ashley Lighting and Mirrors ($75) in white glass and antique brass will suit nearly every room in the house.
4. Inspired by the natural shape of the artichoke, this Ceramic Table Lamp ($80 as a pair) by Laura Ashley Lighting and Mirrors is a versatile statement piece, enhancing any contemporary or traditional interior. Fabric shade is included.
5. This Smithy Sofa by Loaf ($1,900) is made for lounging with a very deep seat and feather-wrapped foam cushions. It’s a laid back classic and even more comfortable than it looks. u
Watch Your Step
WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF CARPET FOR A STAIRCASE?
BY RICHARD MOORE
Stair carpet is simultaneously practical and decorative, which can make choosing one a little tricky. The stairs in your home will typically experience some of the heaviest foot traffic, particularly if you are a busy household or you have children. As a result, durability needs to be high on your list of priorities. A knowledgable retailer should be able to advise customers if they are unsure about which class of carpet may be best for their stairs.
TEXTURE. You may not have considered the texture of your carpet, but it is an important feature. Unsurprisingly, the texture is determined by the material that the carpet is made of and the method of construction. The most common materials used to make carpet are wool, nylon and polyester, with wool being the most luxurious and comfortable. As synthetic materials, nylon and polyester are less expensive and quite durable.
COLOR. Naturally, choosing the color of your
stair carpet will mean considering how it works with the rest of your décor, but there are also some practical reasons for thinking carefully about this choice. Both dark and light colors can show up marks and debris in different ways. So, often a mid-tone such as brown or grey is a better choice. The carpet should also complement the other decorative elements in the immediate area, such as wall color, handrail and nearby furniture.
DESIGN. The stair carpet design that you pick will mostly be influenced by personal preference as well as consideration of the rest of your décor. However, the choice is usually between having a plain, patterned or striped design. A plain carpet can give a smart, elegant look, but it is also going to show up any marks, dirt or signs of wear and tear fairly easily. The benefits of a patterned design are the visual interest that it brings to the stairs, but also its ability to disguise minor dirt, debris and scuffs.
THICKNESS. The thickness of a stair carpet is
not just about how soft it feels underfoot or the amount of cushioning it gives. There is an important safety aspect to consider as well. A very thick carpet on stairs can increase the risk of slips and falls.
It is harder to feel the stairs beneath your feet when they are covered with a deep-pile carpet. A chunky carpet also reduces the amount of space on the stair tread, the part you step on, increasing the likelihood of a slip or misstep.
You do have the option of choosing between carpet that covers the full width of the stairs or a stair runner. A stair runner covers the majority of the stair tread, where people typically step, and leaves a gap on either side, which allows the wood of the stairs to be exposed. Many people prefer this as it has the benefit of softening footfall on the stairs and absorbing sound, but without hiding the entirety of your stairs under carpet. This is also a less expensive way of covering your stairs, as you’ll need less carpet. u
Serenity Now
'TIS THE SEASON FOR WARMTH, COMFORT AND CONTENTMENT
BY ZOE WARREN
"Hygge" is a Danish concept that embodies a sense of warmth, comfort, and contentment. It involves creating a cozy atmosphere in your home that encourages relaxation, enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures, and spending quality time with loved ones, as well as enjoying solitary moments. At its core, the idea is about creating an atmosphere of coziness and comfort in one’s physical surroundings and emotional state. Think of the feeling you get when you are wrapped in a warm blanket, drinking a cup of piping hot tea while soft snow falls outside of your window. That’s hygge.
Bringing greenery into your home is a great way to lighten and brighten a space and provides a particular mood boost during the colder months, where it may be lacking outdoors. Houseplants, with their purifying properties, have been shown to
help reduce stress and make us feel more at ease in our environment, improving overall well-being.
Wood is another great material for bringing nature into your home and creating a cozier, happier feel. Wood floors, furniture, or décor can help us feel closer to nature, which is a very important part of the hygge concept. Bring more natural elements into your home, such as textured pieces and plenty of clay accents to complete the look and feel.
Candles are often one of the first things that come to mind for hygge practitioners, and for good reason. The soft glow of candles can create the perfect atmosphere to lift the spirits and cast a warm light over a room on a winter evening. Turning off artificial lights and opting for candles instead transforms your space into a cozier, more romantic, and more intimate sanctuary. There is nothing more
enticing than the glow of candlelight, whether it is for a night of gathering with close friends or spending some valuable, solitary time relaxing.
Beyond just candles, natural light as a whole is a huge factor in hygge. Lighting plays a crucial role in Danish culture when the weather becomes cloudy and the darkness draws in early as the seasons change. A home that embraces hygge will draw in as much natural light as possible. Candlelight is perfect for the evenings, but you must also consider the daylight hours.
Keep your curtains open and position mirrors on walls across from windows to allow natural light to bounce around every corner of your home. If your space lacks windows, be strategic about lamps and choose bulbs with a cozier orange tint as opposed to those with blue, clinical-feeling hues.
Taking the time to curl up with a good book is a key feature of hygge. Display all of your favorite classics or books that you have been meaning to read to inspire you to stay home and invest yourself in reading. How you display your books is up to you. You could fill a shelf with books, trinkets, and string fairy lights or simply stack your favorites on coffee tables and side tables. Books hold a special power in making a space feel more welcoming and lived-in.
Every hygge home needs a perfect place for you to snuggle up in a warm blanket and relax. There is even a Danish word to describe this space—‘hyggekrog’, meaning ‘comfortable corner.’ Think of this as your safe space where you can find peace, read a book, and curl up with a warm drink. Start by finding your most comfortable chair or bean bag, or even just your favorite corner of your sofa. Layer pillows and throws to make your little nook the coziest part of your home. Consider positioning it near to a window or add a warm lamp for soft lighting, and pair it with a side table to place your items that bring you comfort.
Lastly, it is important to remember that hygge life is about ease, contentment and comfort. Cluttered corners and excessive pieces of furniture that don’t bring you any real joy are going to make it less likely for you to feel content and relaxed within your space. Only fill your home with the things that really make you happy and donate or discard whatever you don’t need. Rather than focusing on extravagance and materialism, hygge is about taking pleasure in the sheer simplicity of your immediate surroundings. u
Secret Gardens
PICKING PLANTS THAT ADD COLOR, BEAUTY AND PRIVACY TO YOUR LANDSCAPE.
BY CALUM MADDOCK
Keeping your garden private isn’t just about blocking out the view of prying neighbors—it is about creating a peaceful, beautiful retreat. In recent years, more and more of us are turning to nature to build garden borders, choosing green screens over traditional fences. Dense trees, lush shrubs, and climbing vines can all work together to turn your outdoor space into a secluded haven. In Northeast Florida, winter and early spring are the best times of year to plan and plant many varieties of trees and bushes, as the summertime heat can be brutal on fresh plantings. Here, we'll discuss some of the best plants to boost privacy, along with tips on selecting and caring for your greenery. Arborvitae is an evergreen conifer related to cypress, juniper, and redwood. This common landscape plant comes in a wide range of sizes, from dwarf shrubs to tall trees. The dense, dark green foliage of this plant creates an effective privacy screen and should be spaced out appropriately. The arborvitae plant thrives in a wide range of soil conditions. For ideal conditions, plant in moist, welldrained soil in either full sun or partial shade. Most arborvitae are dark green, but certain varieties produce a lovely golden yellow hue in autumn and winter, and color-changing varieties are available if you want to add a splash of color to your garden.
The fast-growing privet tree provides exceptional privacy and can easily boost the curb appeal of your property. With the appropriate care, it
can reach a height of two or three feet every year, so within a few years, you can easily create a living wall that will keep prying eyes away.
Privet has no special requirements for its location, but there are some care tips to follow for optimum growth. In terms of lighting, privet feels comfortable in the sun but also does not mind partial shade. It is commonly used to grow as a privacy hedge but requires regular pruning. However, the extra effort really pays off in the spring when you should see your plants producing an abundance of sweet-smelling white blooms.
Bamboo is often considered the ultimate plant for creating an atmosphere of privacy. It is easy to cultivate tall hedges, which spread fast and improve the appearance of your garden. Planting bamboo around your garden borders can help to create an attractive visual barrier, noise buffer, and windbreak. There are various types of bamboo, each with its own growing tendencies. Some plants take a long time to mature, while others will quickly take over your garden, so it is important to choose carefully. u
HOT SEATS
Jacksonville Magazine offers a select list of area restaurants as a service to its readers. The directory does not include every restaurant in town. It does, however, feature many of the magazine’s Top 50 choices of must-try eateries, as well as a sampling of other notable Northeast Florida dining establishments. Suggestions are welcome. Please contact us at mail@jacksonvillemag.com.
GUIDE to the GUIDE:
B–Breakfast; L–Lunch; D–Dinner; SB–Sunday Brunch
$–$10 or less; $$–$11 to $20; $$$–$21 to $30; $$$$–$31 or above
These $ categories are based on the average cost of a dinner entrée excluding drinks, desserts and/or gratuities.
NOTE: Some restaurant entrée prices do not include à la carte sides or salad. All phone numbers are in the (904) area code. Cafeterias, fast food joints and primarily take-out restaurants are not eligible for inclusion.
Alhambra Theatre & Dining
Alhambra serves up dinner and a show inside its performance hall. Formerly a buffet service, the Alhambra is becoming known as much for its culinary experience as it is for its Broadway-caliber productions. The nation’s oldest continuously operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as Menopause The Musical January 8-February 15, and Damn Yankees, February 26-April 5. 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.
Al’s Pizza
This home-grown string of pizza joints offers a wide selection of appetizers and New Yorkstyle pizza, alongside traditional Italian dishes, Al’s menu includes unexpected items like mussels in wine and garlic butter sauce to satisfy the adventurous foodies out there. They also offer delivery for those in the area of their restaurants. Four locations including 8060 Philips Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza. com), L, D, $.
Aqua Grill
Aqua Grill has a contemporary, eclectic menu with a coastal flair made from local ingredients. The Ponte Vedra eatery is known for its top-of-the line service and has been featured on both Jax Mag’s Top 50 Restaurants and Best in Jax lists for many years. 395 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-3017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.
Argyle
Located inside TPC Sawgrass and adjacent to The Yards pickleball and golf club, the menu
features jumbo scallops, 14oz. ribeye and PEI mussels. 254 Alta Mar Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach (3953114; argylepub.com). L, D, SB bb’s Restaurant & Bar
Bb’s specializes in New American fare and treats, giving comfort food an upscale presentation. Menu items include yellowfin tuna tartare and ancho-spiced rotisserie turkey. They also boast an international cheese selection and top-notch desserts. 1019 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (306-0100; bbsrestaurant.com). L, D, SB, $$.
Blue Bamboo
The Bearded Pig
A pair of casual barbecue spots (complete with an oversized chalkboard wall for kids and plenty of TVs) serves turkey, chicken, brisket, pulled pork and the like, counter-style. Owners Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt both have fine dining backgrounds, so even the standard fare is a bit more grown up than what you might expect at a “Q” joint. And though it’s a meat-fest, there’s truly something for everyone: all of the sides (slaw, collards, mac-n-cheese) are vegetarian. 1224 Kings Ave., San Marco (619-2247); thebearded pigbbq. com. L, D $$.
Biscottis
This neighborhood landmark for more than two decades specializes in innovative updates on old favorites, like meatloaf served with apricot marinara sauce and duck confit pizza (dinner specials change daily). The dessert case is legendary. Casual. 3556 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (387-2060; biscottis.net). B, L, D, SB, $$.
Blue Bamboo
This restaurant serves hip, Asian cuisine with a wine lounge and patio dining. Menu items include miso-marinated salmon, Cantonese orange duck, Ahi tuna salad and Mandarin orange cake. 10110 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (6461478; bluebamboojacksonville. com). L, D, $$.
Blue Orchid
Blue Orchid Thai serves authentic Asian fare made with traditional ingredients like Thai basil, palm sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Their pad Thai and dynamite chicken are house favorites. 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville (723-1300; blueorchid.menu). L, D, $$.
Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q
Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q, which has been pit-smoking everything from turkey to pork since 1949. Try the Slawpy Pig, a heaping pile of pulled pork topped with coleslaw and served with sides such as fried corn on the cob, collard greens, or Brunswick stew. Multiple locations (880-8310; bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.
Caffé Andiamo
A copper pizza oven highlights this stylish eatery specializing in frutti di mare, pollo paisano, vongole Positano, and homemade Italian sausage. Caffe Andiamo complements their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (280-2299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.
Casa Reina
Taqueria & Tequila
Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas, as well as short rib, chiles rellenos and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson Cir., St. Augustine (295-3847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.
ChopHouse Thirteen
Formerly The Tree Steakhouse, this restaurant offers a sleek, chic dining room. Along with their grilled steaks of 100% Angus beef, they also serve seafood and feature a conditioned wine room with ample variety. 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (262-0006; chophouse13.com). L,D, $$$.
City Grille & Raw Bar
Welcome arrival to the San Marco area dining scene featuring an upscale setting and a menu laden with seafood, steak and seasonal specialties, as well as an extensive wine list with labels from around the globe. 1314 Prudential Dr., Southbank (398-8989, citygrillerawbar.com) . L, D, $$
Coastal Wine & Tapas
Coastal Wine & Tapas has quickly become a standout in Nocatee’s thriving dining scene, winning over locals and visitors alike with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The space is defined by its signature grapevine chandelier, cozy booths, handcrafted high tops, and a stunning granite bar top that sets the stage for memorable evenings. Guests can indulge in chef-curated small plates such as Housemade Meatballs Marinara, MarconaCrusted Goat Cheese & Fig, Ahi Tuna Tartare, Drunken Filet Sliders, and more. Reservations are accepted, and the team looks forward to welcoming you into their beautiful new home. 300 Pine Lake Dr., Suite 101, Ponte Vedra (395-3520, coastalwineandtapas.com). D, $$.
Coop 303
Coop 303 is known for its regional cuisine featuring hot honey-glazed salmon, chicken and waffles and pulled pork sliders. But the Beaches Town Center restaurant also features local seafood dishes, and is home to the eight-piece fried chicken basket. Coop also has plenty of spots to hang out and sip their signature cocktails: community tables; alcove booths; a front porch; a rooftop garden; and an upstairs parlor. 303 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (372-4507; coop303. com). L, D, SB, $$.
Cordova, A Coastal Chophouse & Bar
Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Cordova is the signature restaurant of the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. An extensive menu covers much culinary territory, with an emphasis on seafood and local ingredients. Dinner starters include items such as Florida little neck clams and Georgia peach salad. Entrées are highlighted by crab-crusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorn-crusted short ribs. Save room for the spiced chocolate cake. Be sure to enjoy cocktails in the Cobalt Lounge. Private dining room available. 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine (8196018, KesslerCollection.com/costabrava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.
Cowford Chophouse
Spread over three levels in a restored building near the foot of the Main Street Bridge, Cowford is an upscale restaurant/rooftop bar combo that specializes in hand-cut steaks and seafood. The menu is flush with items such as tuna tartare, roasted bone marrow and foie gras. A raw bar serves oysters, shrimp cocktail and caviar. For the main course, diners choose between dishes such as bone-in ribeyes and Maine lobster. 101 E. Bay St., Downtown (862-6464). D, $$$$.
Cruisers Grill
For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing. Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted Swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics, plus newer options like a housemade fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (270-0356). L, D, $.
Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants
Straight from Limerick, Ireland, the four sisters who operate the city’s two Culhane’s pubs draw legions of regulars with classics such as Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Stew. Bangers N’ Mash, Corned Beef N’ Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Cheese-Crusted Cod—the flavors of the Emerald Isle live here. Full bar. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (249-9595); 9720 Deer Lake Ct., Southside (619-3177), culhanesirishpub.com. L, D, SB, $$
David's
A fine-dining landmark in Fernandina Beach for some 20 years, this chef-driven eatery features an extensive wine and cocktail list, Wagyu beef, Australian rack of lamb, pan-seared Dover sole and seafood gnocchi bouillabaisse in coconut broth. 802 Ash St., Amelia Island (3106049, ameliaislanddavids.com) D, $$$
Eleven South Bistro
This upscale eatery features an extensive wine list, mesquite wood grill and outdoor patio. Seafood martini, lobster mac and cheese, miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and mesquite-grilled certified Angus beef tenderloin highlight the menu. 216 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (241-1112;elevensouth.com). L, D, $$$$.
The Fish Company
With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (246-0123; thefish cojax.com). L, D. $$$.
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Casa Reina
Hot Buns! And Other Bakery Delights
LET’S VISIT A HALF-DOZEN LOCAL SHOPS ACCLAIMED FOR WARM, CRUSTY PERFECTION.
BY JEFFREY SPEAR
There's nothing like freshly baked bread—its irresistible aromas, alluring textures, complex flavors and irrefutable pleasures baked into every loaf. Of course, you'll want to know where to find these earthly delights in Northeast Florida. While supermarket bakeries have replaced most of the independent bakers, their offerings pale in comparison. Fortunately, there are a small number
of dedicated chefs and artisanal bakeries around town that offer the allure, warmth and comfort of irrefutably superior, freshly baked breads, pastries and sweet treats.
Originally specializing in Guatemalan baked goods, the St Gabriel Bakery offers an overwhelming selection of traditional and contemporary breads and pastries, all based on recipes from Central America, Mexico
and other parts of the world. Best known for their crusty sourdough breads, available in several varieties, you'll also find not-tobe-missed specialty items including pan de queso (Mexican orange bread), volovan (puff pastries with savory fillings, derived from the French vol-au-vent) and conchitas (an iconic Mexican sweet bread). If you like your bread still warm to the touch, everything is on the shelves, fresh from the oven, by 10:30 AM.
Jax Bread Co.
Just down the road is The French Pantry , a retail bakery and considerably larger commercial operation that caters to local restaurants. It's also one of Jacksonville's most iconic lunchtime destinations, renown for its many creative sandwiches and decadent layer cakes. Offering more than 35 different breads, all baked daily, a few of the most popular include their signature pesto cheese rolls, sourdough bread and focaccia. As with most bakeries, arriving early (around 10:30 AM) is recommended, giving you access to the greatest variety. Many of the bakery's offerings can also be purchased from its second storefront and restaurant located in St Augustine.
If you're looking for New York-style bagels, Jax Bread Co. is for you. Offering all the varieties you'd expect including salt, onion, poppy seed, cinnamon raisin, Asiago and even spinach Florentine, the "everything" is the most popular. They also make a mean French sourdough (pain au levain), possessing a darker crust and a slightly milder tang that sets it apart from its American counterparts. If you're feeling adventurous, don't miss their signature African sweet bread, a South African creation that's soft, buttery and medium sweet (something between a Hawaiian sweet bread and Japanese milk bread), perfect for morning toast with jam or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Sometimes, a trip to the bakery should include a little time for a cup of coffee, a freshly baked treat or even more for breakfast or lunch. If you agree, Community Loaves , located in the heart of historic Murray Hill, offers freshly baked breads, an assortment of pastries, and plenty of cafe space to kick back and relax. While they offer a variety of breads throughout the week including country white, rosemary & garlic (a customer fave), whole wheat, and bagels, you'll want to check their bread schedule to see what else may be available. The widest selection will be found when their doors open at 8 AM , especially on the weekends.
Another place to enjoy a casual cup of coffee or meal while shopping for freshly baked breads and pastries is 1748 Bakehouse. Located in the heart of Springfield just north of downtown, this cozy community bakery offers sourdough breads, English
St Gabriel Bakery
The French Pantry Community Loaves
muffins that enjoy a cult-like following, and an impressive selection of croissants, pies and other sweet treats. You'll also encounter a selection of gourmet gift items as you enter the shop. If you're looking for more, you'll find focaccia, pumpernickel and baguettes under their tent at the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) on Saturdays, starting at 10 AM Of course, it's always best to come early no matter which destination you choose.
Nothing says traditional French bakery like
warm, freshly baked baguettes. When you visit Le Petit Paris , especially if you arrive between 8 AM and 2 PM, the signature French baguettes are being pulled straight from the oven every 25-30 minutes. You'll also find a large selection of pastries including croissants, macarons and other treats, all available for your enjoyment at home or on premises. Most come for the baguettes, then linger in the cafe for a quick morning pick me up, casual breakfast, relaxing lunch with friends or even a
Let's Go Nuts
A regular at the Riverside Arts Market and Atlantic Beach Farmers Market, as well as on the shelves of retailers such as 1748 Bakehouse and Native Sun, Backyard Buffalo , a self-described small batch scratch kitchen based in Ponte Vedra Beach, is loved for its selection of grab-and-go Indian specialties such as cilantro chutney, pickled carrots, butter chicken, bhuna masala, chakka yogurt, soups and more. Also, its pre-made refrigerator market meals can be ordered and delivered right to your home. For good eats on the go, pick up a bag of the Cardamom Granola ($9 for 16 oz.), with oats, walnuts, almonds, brown sugar, coconut oil and flakes, dried cranberries, molasses, nutmeg, salt and, of course, cardamom. Also comes in chocolate, pumpkin, and walnut varieties. It’s sweet and savory, good and good for you. u
restorative glass of French wine paired with tasty nibbles at the end of the day.
It's clear that every bakery has its specialty. For some, it’s a dense and tangy sourdough, while others have loyal patrons clamoring for bagels, baguettes and English muffins.
Undoubtedly, they all offer an enticing variety of eye-catching, sweet and savory baked goods. Your best bet is to visit them all, arriving early, letting your senses be your guide. u
1748 Bakehouse Le Petit Paris
Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar
As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach (and now in Avondale), the Flying Iguana represents one of the liveliest dining options in Duval. Specializing in Latin-American cuisine and expansive cocktail possibilities, the restaurant also hosts live music and has only one rule: Good Vibes Only. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach (853-5680, flyingiguana. com). L, D, SB, $$
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
There are a handful of Harry’s peppered around Florida, including a waterfront location in St. Augustine across from the Bridge of Lions. The eatery brings Louisiana flavor to the regional seafood scene, serving up Cajun and Creole dishes such as French-baked scallops, blackened redfish and crawfish étouffée. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (8247765; hookedonharrys.com). L, D, $$.
JJ’s Liberty Bistro
Open since 1994, JJ’s Liberty Bistro is a family-run establishment offering one of the largest selections of wine in Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts frequent wine dinners featuring some of the largest wine producers around the world, including Chateau L’Angelus, Veuve Clicquot, and Plumpjack. You’ll find hundreds of different bottles in the retail store, as well as the finest cheeses, caviars, and homemade desserts. Stop by the ice cream and chocolate/macaron shop located just next door. 330 A1A N., Suite 209, Ponte Vedra (273-7980; jjbistro.com/ponte-vedra). L, D, $$$.
Le Petit Paris Café
A little slice of France in the River City, the chef-owned establishment specializes in toasted croissants, quiches and baguette sandwiches. Le Parisien is a classic French handheld with ham, Swiss and salted butter. The Le Flore salad is a must-try with smoked salmon, tzatiziki cream, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh pastries, macarons and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappuccino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio. Several locations including 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparis jax.com). B, L, $.
Matthew’s Restaurant
A fine-dining experience in historic San Marco. The menu is comprised of French and Mediterranean dishes crafted by Chef Alex Yim and also possesses a vast wine selection. Menu items include venison carpaccio, Maine diver scallops, and Osetra caviar. 2107 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (396-9922; matthewsrestaurant.com). D, $$$$.
Restaurant Medure
This restaurant features high-end favorites like escargot and caviar, while also making room for classics like meatloaf. Their menu features global cuisine with a local influence, ranging from handcrafted pasta to duck leg confit poutine. 818 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (543-3797; restaurantmedure.com). D, $$$.
Mellow Mushroom
With more than 200 locations around the country, Mellow Mushroom has garnered a loyal following for its stone-baked pizza flavor combinations and for offering up craft beer, premium imports and local favorites. Menu features baked chicken wings, spinach artichoke dip and a dozen house speciality pizzas. Multiple area locations: Avondale, Fleming Island, Southside, River City, Jacksonville Beach (mellowmushroom.com). L, D, $$.
Mezza Luna Ristorante
Located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center, this long-time neighborhood favorite offers seating on their covered patio, formal dining room, and lounge that often hosts live music. The lengthy dinner menu includes Mediterranean favorites like linguine and clams, pan-seared bronzino and woodfired pizzas. 110 1st St., Neptune Beach (249-5573; mezzalunajax. com). D, $$$.
Midtown Table
A culinary concept from the Medure Brothers, this Gate Parkway eatery specializes in all-things Italian. That means appetizers run the gamut from seasonal burrata to meatballs with house-made bread. Entrées include fresh pastas, Neapolitan pizza, and heartier fare (like pork marsala and salt-baked zucchini). 5016 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (503.4122; midtowntable. medurebrothers.com). L, D, $$.
Mojo Bar-B-Que
This regional chain showcases Southern barbecue styles like Texas and North Carolina, including everything from burnt ends to pulled pork. Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whiskey selections and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (732-7200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (247-6636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (381-6670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (342-5264). L, D, $$.
Nineteen
Located inside the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass, this fine-dining restaurant matches the high quality
you would expect for a place that hosts The Players Championship. The menu is dominated by seafood and local fare, like lime pepper-crusted tuna and ribeye steak. The broad back patio overlooks the golf course. Sawgrass Clubhouse, Ponte Vedra Beach (273-3238; tpcsawgrass.com). B, L, D, $$.
1912 Ocean Bar and Rooftop
A part of the Marriott Sawgrass Golf Resort and Spa, the oceanside outpost offers postcard views of the Atlantic and indoor and outdoor seating on the second and third floors. The menu features seared scallops, blackened rock shrimp, boneless short ribs, small plates, cocktails and wine. Save room for chocolate pistachio tarts for dessert. 619 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (373-2063). L, D, $$
O-Ku Sushi
O-Ku offers upscale Japanese cuisine, a rooftop bar and patio and seafood from fish markets in Tokyo, Hawaii and here locally. Check out the chef specialties and small plates like tuna crudo, Agedashi tofu and O-Ku rock shrimp or just go straight for the rolls including Neptune’s Beard (shrimp tempura, avocado, spicy tuna, salmon, spicy aioli, sweet soy, chive) and the Firecracker (crispy panko fried roll with spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, goat cheese mousse, sweet soy). 502 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (694-2770, o-kusushi.com). D, $$$.
Restaurant Orsay
An upscale French bistro with local, Southern flavor, meals at Restaurant Orsay are the epitome of a high-end dining experience. The chef-owned restaurant offers an extensive drink selection and some of the best oysters in the city, having won Best in Jax multiple times. 3630 Park St., Avondale (381-0909; restaurantorsay.com). D, SB, $$$$.
Philly’s Finest
When you call yourself Philly’s Finest, you better bring the Cheesesteak magic. For the love of Pat’s and Geno’s, they’ve been doing just that for two decades at the Jax Beach sandwich institution. American, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses, sautéed onions, mushrooms, pickles, sweet peppers, black olives, Cheese Whiz—each order can be customized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too. 1527 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (241-7188, phillys-finest.com). L, D, $$.
Poppy’s Italiano
Family-owned establishment serving Italian comfort foods since 2107, Poppy’s serves lunch and dinner daily featuring toasted cheese ravioli, Caesar salads, baked penne pasta, chicken piccata and seafood risotto. Among its specialty pasta are spaghetti carbonara with prosciutto, peas and onions sautéed and tossed in cream sauce, and linguini primavera with seasonal vegetable. 832 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (904-273-7272); 104 Ashourian Ave., St. Augustine (904-6793657, poppysitaliano.net). L, D, $$.
Poe’s Tavern
Located at the end of Atlantic Blvd. in the heart of the Beaches lies a gourmet burger joint where you can experience an ample beer selection and the cool breeze of the ocean from their outside seating area. Each menu item is named after one of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous stories, including the Tell-Tale Heart, a half-pound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7637; poestavern.com). L,D, $.
River & Post
Rooftop bars are popping up all over Northeast Florida. Arguably one of the best can be enjoyed at River & Post. The restaurant specializes in upscale American fare—seared hanger steak, shrimp and grits, grilled
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Restaurant Orsay
DINNER DATES
Tumucuana Country Club played host to the 10th annual Orchestration of Food, Wine and Music, an event that has become a cherished tradition of the Civic Orchestra of Jacksonville. The organization’s mission is to present live symphonic music to the community. Guests were treated to champagne, passed hors d’oeuvres, a carving station and a jazz ensemble during dinner. It’s next pair of concerts are titled, “Music Inspired by Literary Giants,” set for March 7 and 8. Like all Civic Orchestra concerts, admission is free. u
It’s been part of the Jacksonville artistic and dining scene since 1967. Despite some 60 years “breaking legs,” opening nights at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining still provide plenty of nervous energy for performers and staff. A bit of music, drama, laughter and a three-course meal are all part of the show, too. On January 8, the Alhambra opened the comedy classic Menopause: The Musical. A full house enjoyed Chef Dejuan Roy’s menu featuring field green salad, tea-poached salmon, and ice box pie—an ideal ending to a meal should a hot flash or two occur. u
The Spuds Stop Here
Once proudly known as the “Potato Capital of Florida,” the town of Hastings was established in 1890 as an agricultural community west of St. Augustine. As Henry Flagler built his grand hotels in the Oldest City, Hastings prospered as the source for farm-fresh vegetables and more for travelers and the region’s growing population. However, as much of Florida continued to grow, Hastings languished, passed over by socalled “progress.” Today, it’s still a rural outpost, but one that celebrates its small town charm and agricultural roots. This spring, Hastings hosts its third annual Cabbage, Potato and Bacon Festival on April 25. The town’s Main Street is the site of cooking demonstrations, food and beverage vendors, panel discussions, a street-side brunch, seated dinner, lawn mower races and the event’s highlight, the Miss Potato Queen Pageant. u
Dream Street: Edgewood Avenue at Murray Hill
SLICES, LATTES, HOT CHICKEN, EGG ROLLS, BILLIARDS, BILL MURRAY MURAL… YES, PLEASE.
M OON RIVER PIZZA
A Murray Hill original, Moon River prepares its pizzas, calzones and bread sticks the traditional way. Everything is made to order. The house special is topped with spinach, mushrooms, cheddar cheese and fresh garlic ($26 for a large) Hot pies 11 AM-10 PM daily except for Sunday. Expect a line at the counter to order. It’s worth the wait. 1176 Edgewood Ave., 904-389-4442.
Georgia On Your Mind?
One doesn’t readily equate the Peach State with wineries. But tucked away in the small, southwest Georgia town of LaGrange, Nutwood Winery sits on ten acres peppered with 200-year-old pecan trees. The mom-and-pop operation includes a tasting room and wine bar, and a limited menu of sandwiches, pastries, charcuterie, cheese and fresh fruit boards. The Liechty family produces a surprisingly large collection of chardonnays, pinot grigio, cabernet and malbec varieties, as well as whiskey barrel-aged, peach and muscadine wines. The tasting room also serves local craft beer, wine slushies and soft-serve wine. Look for the dates of their second annual summertime Grape Stomping Festival to be announced soon. If visiting (Thursday-Sunday), ask for Jolene, the Great Pyrenees and the official Nutwood mascot. You may find her sleeping on the front porch. u
FISHWEIR BREWING CO.
New to craft beer? Try a flight of four house brews, if feeling adventurous. Lighter palettes should stick to taps like Midway Amber Lager or Twice As Weiss Hefeweizen ($8 a pint). The backyard beer garden welcomes kids and dogs. Trivia nights, farmers markets and more pack the neighborhood calendar. Pouring starts at 3 PM during the week, at noon Friday-Sunday. 1183 Edgewood Ave., 904-551-9469.
THE FLAMINGO
Exposed red brick, glowing neon, funky art on the wall, a long comfy couch… Chandler Bing would feel right at home here. Breakfast handhelds—blueberry scones, cream cheese kolaches, cinnamon rolls—are neighborhood faves. Add a chai tea or vanilla latte and start the day right. Come nightfall, saddle up on a stool at the bar for a Manifest mule, Congaree & Penn cider or a glass of prosecco. Opens daily at 7 AM. 1176 Edgewood Ave., 904-683-4380. u
PANDA-MONIUM
Just two years ago it launched as a one-day pop-up event in New York City. Today, Panda Fest has grown into a traveling food and culture event reaching about a dozen cities across the country, including the inaugural event in Orlando, set for February 27-March 1. Designed to be a celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures, the Sunshine State’s festival will features more than 80 food vendors offering dishes from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand and other Asian favorites. Plus, look for a marketplace offering everything from clothing and jewelry to traditional arts and crafts. Of course, pandas are everywhere. Not live ones—but a panda bounce house, themed food, souvenirs, games and 15-foot inflatable black and white bear. Panda Fest takes place in Orlando’s Festival Park. General admission tickets start at $14. u
Run, Forest, Run
Nothing says “Florida” food like freshly caught shrimp. Boiled shrimp, shrimp scampi, shrimp cocktail, popcorn shrimp… Hungry patrons can expect the tasty crustaceans to be fried, grilled, sautéed and more at the annual St. George Island ShrimpFest, set for Saturday, February 8, 11 AM-4 PM, at the island’s historic lighthouse park. Local chefs and home cooks gather to prepare and serve a feast for the senses at the oceanside festival. They are joined by artisans and other vendors, as well as live music and more. Tickets are $5 for ages 13+ and free for kids under 12. Food and drink are extra. Funds raised support the St. George Lighthouse Association which promotes and preserves the Cape St. George Lighthouse and museum. u
salmon almondine. Small plates, charcuterie, sushi rolls and flatbreads are available on the rooftop. 1000 Riverside Ave., Riverside (575-2366; riverandpostjax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.
RP’s Fine Food & Drink
RP’s serves local fish and fresh produce inside a casual beach setting. The menu features items such as conch fritters, a crab cake BLT, and Shrimp 308—sautéed local shrimp doused in spicy Cajun butter over rice with hushpuppies. 1183 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach (853-5094; rpsjaxbeach.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.
Rue Saint-Marc
Led by executive chef Scott Alters, Rue Saint-Marc strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort by serving decadent menu items like halibut meunière while maintaining exceptional service and a quaint atmosphere, all just steps from the heart of San Marco Square. 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (619-0861; ruesaintmarc.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.
Safe Harbor Seafood
Fresh, locally caught seafood is the calling card for Safe Harbor. That’s not surprising, as customers can practically see the shrimp boats of Mayport from the restaurant’s front door. It’s easy to see why hungry diners have been drifting here for years. Sure, the menu is laden with clams, oysters, crab cakes and other seafood standards, but sometimes a basket of fried shrimp, slaw, fries and hush puppies is a little slice of heaven. 4378 Ocean St., Mayport (246 4911, safeharbor-seafood.com). L, D, $$.
Salento Colombian Steakhouse
Open since 2014, this family-operated dining spot specializes in grilled salmon, pork chops, ribeye steaks, burgers and more. Also serving fried green plantains, arepas, corn cakes, rice and beans—all with a
Latin American flair. 11018 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (374-5882); 60 Silver Forest Dr., St. Augustine (342-7557, salentosteakhouse.com)
Salt Life Food Shack
“Salt Life” is a ubiquitous phrase in Northeast Florida, and for many represents a lifestyle of relaxing fun and, above all, love for our adjacent ocean. This restaurant channels that vibe in a dining experience and a seafood-heavy menu designed to appeal to all locals and beach-lovers who enter, ranging from tuna poke bowls to Boca-style grouper. 1018 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (372-4456; saltlifefoodshack.com); 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. L, D, $$.
Sliders Oyster Bar
With its open-air bar and broad covered patio, Sliders oozes beaches vibes and charm. A sister restaurant of Safe Harbor Seafood, diners rest assured the fish, shrimp, and shellfish are going to be the freshest around. The raw bar serves all the seafood staples like steamed clams, peeland-eat shrimp and oysters on the half-shell. The oysters Rockefeller is baked with spinach, parmesan, provolone and breadcrumbs. The oysters “Godzilla” are served raw with seaweed salad, cucumber wasabi and the house “pirate” sauce. 218 1st St., Neptune Beach (246-0881, slidersoysterbar.com). L, D, $$.
Surfwiches
One of Northeast Florida’s original cheesesteak and hoagie stops, Surfwiches has been a top Beaches sandwich and full-service ice cream shop since 2013. Cheesesteaks range from sliced ribeye steak to grilled buffalo chicken. Classic hoagies include the Italian with Genoa salami, spicy capitol, prosciutto and provolone, as well as the thin-sliced roast beef, ham and cheese, and corned beef. The Outrageous BLT comes with
a mountain of applewood-cured bacon. Plus, hot dogs, burgers, patty melts, chocolate sundaes, and more. Dine in, carryout and delivery through Uber Eats. 1537 Penman Rd., Jacksonville Beach (904-241-6996, surfwiches.com) B, L, $$
TacoLu
In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this "uber" popular restaurant serves nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and about any kind of taco you desire, with fish tacos being their specialty. TacoLu fulfills their niche well, and it’s what earned them the designation of “Best Tacos” in the city in our Best In Jax reader’s poll. Oh, and they have over 100 types of tequila and mezcal. 1712 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (249-TACO; tacolu.com). L, D, SB, $.
Taqueria Cinco
Located in funky Five Points, this restaurant focuses on providing top-notch hospitality while serving authentic Mexican eats. If you come on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to try their Al Pastor. Happy hour food and drink specials available Mon.-Fri. from 3-6:30. Closed Sundays. 809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.com). L, D, $$.
Taverna
Taverna offers authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Its focused menu brings out the best in Mediterranean flavors, producing dishes like antipasto and orecchiette. All of their pasta and mozzarella are house-made, and the pizzas are cooked in a wood oven at the back of the dining room. 1986 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; taverna. restaurant). L, D, SB, $$.
Taverna Oceana
The recently opened next door neighbor to sister eatery Taverna, Sam and Kiley Efron’s latest specializes in fruits of the sea. The raw bar serves classics
like oysters on the half-shell, shrimp cocktail and caviar. Dinner features lobster thermador, hot-smoked salmon and pasta primavera. 1988 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; oceana.restaurant). L, D, $$
Town Hall
Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence to Florida. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches such as outlets in the bar area. 2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-0726; townhalljax. com). D, SB, $$$.
Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar
Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-7777). B, D, $$$.
Whitey’s Fish Camp
Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, Northof-the-border steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-you-caneat catfish. Check out the deck, tiki bar and dock, where you can even arrive by boat. 2032 C.R. 220, Orange Park (269-4198; whiteysfish-camp.com). L, D, $$. u
Send food and restaurant news, ideas or questions to mail@ jacksonvillemag.com.
Culhane's Irish Curry Rice Bowl
BY CHEF CHAD SPANO, CULHANE'S IRISH PUB
While curry is not immediately recognized as traditional Irish cuisine, it has become a regular part of the Emerald Isle diet and embraced as the ultimate comfort food. Rich and satisfying, this dish is enjoyed for dinner and is particularly popular at chip shops, served over fries as a late-night snack. Here, chef Chad Spano shares one of his favorite curry dishes, one that diners can find on the menu at the two area Culhane’s Irish Pubs.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup potato, diced, precooked, fork tender
1/4 cup green peas
1/3 cup red bell pepper strips
1 cup McDonnells Curry Sauce (pre-mixed according to directions)*
3/4 cup jasmine rice, cooked cilantro, coarsely chopped, for garnish green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
1. Using a sauté pan, combine the diced potatoes, peas, red pepper strips and curry sauce.
2. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Cook until the veggies are soft, then transfer to a serving bowl.
4. Top with the steamed jasmine rice, then garnish with the green onion and cilantro. The dish is even better with grilled chicken or shrimp.
*Check the international aisle of your grocery store. Easiest to find online. Makes 1 serving.
BEER OF THE MONTH
After a holiday season stuffed with heavy meals, chocolates, candy canes, bottles of wine and punch bowls of eggnog, it may be time to consider lighter libations. From Intuition Ale Works, one of Jax’s original craft breweries, comes El Guapo , a crisp Mexican-style lager. Its bright flavor is wonderful on a hot summer day, but is also enjoyable sitting on the couch watching a football game or two. Heck, Jags fans can purchase draughts just yards from EverBank Field at the Intuition brewery and taproom. $13 for a six-pack at local retailers such as Grassroots Natural Market. Tastes great and the can’s graphics are outstanding, too. u
Yes, We Can
The consumption of many brands of beer, wine and liquor has been on the decline in recent years. Not great news for brewers, vineyards and distillers. However, at least in Jax, there’s still reason to say, “cheers.” Anheuser-Busch recently announced plans for a $30 million investment in its local brewery and aluminum can plant. The Jax-based brewery opened in 1969 and its Metal Container Corp (MCC) came online in 2016. The new funds reportedly will allow for upgrades to brewing, bottling and packaging equipment to fuel increased production of Michelob Ultra. “Investing in our Jacksonville facilities enables us to brew more of the highest-quality American beers that consumers love, including Michelob Ultra, the number one top-selling and fastest growing beer in America,” says Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth. “Investments like these are incredibly important because they help us to enhance our operations while also sustaining jobs and driving local economic growth in the communities where we operate.” We’ll raise a pint to that. u
The 1980s are alive and well at one bar on King Street in Riverside. Well, at least your favorite ‘80s and ‘90s arcade and video games are. For eight years, Keg & Coin has been the scene of vicious on-screen fights and battles against all sorts of blinking and glowing creatures. Just beyond the foosball table, the floor is lined wall-to-wall with nine pinball machines, a handful of “shooter” and “fighter” games like Big Buck and Mortal Kombat. For our quarters, one can’t beat the classics big box games—Super Mario, Frogger, Pac Man, Galaga, and Donkey Kong. There’s even an Atari Pong table. The cast of Stranger Things would feel right at home here. Behind the bar, there are more than a dozen beers and ciders on tap, and coolers full of beer, wine and craft sodas keep players shifting, shooting and aiming for high scores. u
Only in Florida
STRANGE BUT TRUE STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SUNSHINE STATE
In the fall of last year, firefighter Gabrielle Franze was accused and charged with two counts of misdemeanor stalking by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. According to published reports, Franze became angered upon learning that her ex-boyfriend had a new girlfriend and, late one night, tossed between 75 and 100 tampons in her ex’s front yard. The police report stated that the tampons were “stained red as if they were possibly used.” At first, Franze denied she was involved. However, security camera footage and license plate readers verified her pickup truck was in the area that night. Eventually, she did admit to dumping the tampons, adding that her mom and aunt came up with the idea—including painting them red to appear as if they had been used.
“You are trespassing, you need to leave, I’m calling the police,” said a surprised homeowner upon finding bikini-clad Moriah McCowan in the living room of her house. Reportedly, McCowan told the homeowner a “realtor sent her,” and asked if the home was for sale. Learning it was not she quickly sped away in her car. After ignoring an order to pull over by police, a brief vehicular chase through Palm Beach ensued. When finally stopped, McCowan allegedly told police she believed that she was invisible and saw no reason to pull over. She was booked for trespassing, fleeing and eluding.
“ We got a call that he was naked inside of a restroom at a public
park, so we asked, ‘is he naked or buck naked?’” said Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County. Judd was speaking of an incident involving 51-year-old Walter Frymire , who was reported naked in a park in October. When officers arrived, Frymire had put his clothes back on, but was issued a warning for trespassing and sent on his way. Unfortunately, he decided to ignore the warning and was arrested. This is where the story takes an “only in Florida” turn. The Polk County jail’s body scanner discovered something unusual inside Frymire—a thermos, located “up the exit ramp,” as described by Sheriff Judd. The thermos subsequently was removed at a hospital. “It was quite the ordeal,” said Judd, “but he’s thermos-less in the county jail today.”
Speaking of being naked. After receiving numerous “complaints regarding unauthorized nudity,” six beachgoers were picked up by the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office on October 25 of last year. The group had removed their clothes near a county boat ramp, which sits about a mile from the designated nude-optional Blind Creek Beach. The six were charged with indecent exposure and exposure of sexual organs, according to the Sheriff’s Office. The nude-optional beach was closed due to a temporary renovation project. St. Lucie County officials acknowledged that while the closure of the nude-optional beach was an inconvenience to some, “it does not permit the use of undesignated public areas.” u
