Jacksonville Magazine, May 2026

BESTinJAX

Announcing the winners in more than 100 categories ranging from Best Tacos to Best Salon, as named by the readers of Jacksonville Magazine. Congrats to all of this year’s winners.

Featuring gorgeous gowns, our exclusive reception sites chart and a pair of real First Coast wedding stories.

From party balloons to bartending services, from cupcakes to hair extensions, and from historic reception venues to wedding photography, we present the very best in 60 categories of bride and groom essentials.

Every home needs a space where the family can enjoy daily life in uncluttered, casual comfort.

Publisher’s Note

One of the more unusual aspects of my job at the magazine is that I have access to a time machine of sorts, namely more than 40 years of back issues collected and neatly organized in our archives. I’ll admit I don’t often peruse the shelves of yesteryears. I’m more of a forward-thinking person. But we do receive several requests each month from folks looking for photos or stories that were printed all the way back to the 1980s. So, there are times when I’ll search the stacks, flipping through pages to locate an article that mentioned a relative, long-lost friend or some other subject of interest to someone.

Recently, I did some time traveling of my own. I wanted to go back to peruse some of our very first Best in Jacksonville feature stories to see what we were writing about those many years ago. When we first hatched the idea, readers were asked to fill out and mail in printed ballots that were inserted into the magazine. Voting back then required a pen and a stamp, things with which our younger generations are growing less and less familiar.

BEST IN JAX WINNERS — 20 Years Ago —

Restaurant Wine List...............................................Bistro Aix

Meal Under $10.................................................Mossfire Grill

New Restaurant....................Eleven South Bistro & Bar Place to Flirt..............................................................The Grotto Barbecue............................................................Sticky Fingers

Lunchtime Sandwich Shop.........European Street Cafe

Dessert Selection......................................................Biscottis Seafood Joint.............................................First Street Grille

Middle Eastern...................................................Casbah Cafe

Bar to Pick Up A Lawyer.................................Square One Bar to Pick Up A Doctor.............................Bonefish Grille

Beaches Bar.............................................................Lemon Bar

After-Work Bar.............................................Ragtime Tavern

Wine Shop..................................................Riverside Liquors

Italian Fare........................................Giovanni’s Bar & Grille

Today, nearly all of the Best in Jax voting is done online. That said, we did have a handful of readers who sent in a sample ballot that was stitched into the January edition. We were happy to accept those and count them among the thousands of votes received this year. Online ballots are not only easier to complete as a voter, but tabulating the final results is a dream compared to what it was decades

ago—something that’s especially true when the readers’ poll spans more than 100 categories. The results of all that counting and tabulating are featured in this issue, our annual Best in Jax compilation ranging from tacos and pulled pork to hair salons and fine jewelry.

Among the interesting things about paging through our archives for old “Best” articles were comparing the differences between then and now. Much in the city has remained the same over the past couple of decades; however, far more has changed. Inserted here is a sample of Best in Jax restaurant categories and winners from 20 years ago. There are few nostalgic names many will remember and even a few businesses that continue to be counted among the city’s best. Congrats to all of this year’s winners and thanks to those who voted. We’ll be at it again next year. Until then, all the best to you. u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

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MAY 30

Edwardian Garden Party, Springfield

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Dinner on the Riviera

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Crafting Radiant Smiles

At CRE8 Smile Studio, veneer work is approached as both a science and an art form, reflecting Dr. Susan Prater’s commitment to precision, aesthetics, and personalized care. Each veneer is thoughtfully designed to complement the patient’s natural features, ensuring results that feel as authentic as they look beautiful.

Using advanced technology and highquality materials, Dr. Prater carefully crafts smiles that enhance symmetry, brightness, and overall harmony. The process is never rushed; instead, it is a collaborative journey where patients are guided every step of the way, resulting in transformations that are both subtle and striking.

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DINNER ON THE RIVIERA at Saleya Riviera Cafe in San Marco Square June 2 6:45 PM - 8:30 PM

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JAX FILES

Recently, members of the Jacksonville Photography Group assembled Downtown for a meet-up and photo workshop. The night’s assignment was to capture images for a series titled “Connections.” A collection of photos were taken of the bridges and other landmarks in the area, including the public path along the Southbank Riverwalk, the place where this photo was taken. “Each lock represents a romantic connection. The “Heart Lock” on the fence beneath the Main Street Bridge symbolizes this in image and words.”

— Sharon Hoffman

Small Talk

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Ponder on This Month

J The year's North Atlantic right whale calving season, which ran from November through April, concluded on a hopeful note with a total of 23 calves documented, according to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute. This marks the first time in 15 years that more than 20 calves have been recorded in a single season—an encouraging milestone for this critically endangered species which frequents the Atlantic Ocean waters off of Northeast Florida. Calves and their mothers were observed throughout the southeastern U.S., from North Carolina to Florida. With an estimated population of approximately 384 individuals, including about 70 reproductively active females, right whales still face significant challenges from human-related threats such as vessel strikes and entanglement in fishing gear.

J We’re moving to a penniless society, particularly in Florida. A new law passed by the legislature allows that cash purchases ending in 1 or 2 cents may round down to the

nearest nickel, while totals ending in 3 or 4 cents round up to five. Amounts ending in 6 or 7 cents round down to five and 8 and 9 cents round up to the next dime. Credit and electronic payments remain to the penny. It’s a little confusing, but it does make cents.

J According to U.S. Census Bureau migration data, Florida finished 2024 as the nation’s second most popular destination for state-tostate migration, topped only by Texas. About 68,000 new residents arrived that year, with the biggest feeder state being New York—yes, we know. Approximately 53% of people relocating to the Sunshine State purchased a home within the first year, even though Florida home prices are up more than 140% in the past decade. Inbound movers reported their average income at $68,000 and age 39.

J Believe it or not, there are places in Florida where hotels are few and far between. These so-called “hotel deserts” are scattered across

mostly rural parts of the state, places that Airbnb says are increasingly sought out by its travelers. According to its data, 86% of travelers want to visit lesser-known destinations like Cedar Key, a small town of less than 1,000 people and accessible only via a single two-lane road. Last year, Airbnb hosts in hotel deserts across the nation earned nearly $10 billion, with Florida hosts taking in more than $1 billion alone.

J Recent analysis by Property Shark measured how much residential space the $400,000 median sales price could buy across the 100 largest U.S. cities. In Florida, Jax is the only large city where that cash could buy one more than the 1,820 square foot national median, at 2,241 square feet. Miami is the most space constrained large city in the state, at just 861, nearly three times smaller than Jax. On a national level, Detroit buyers could potentially buy homes with nearly 5,000 square feet for $400K. In Manhattan those dollars will allow for just 267 square feet. u

A Kick!

“What we’re building in North Florida is more than a stadium—it’s a permanent identity for Jacksonville and for the entire region,” says Ricky Caplin, majority owner and chairman of Sporting Club Jacksonville. “This is a privately led investment, backed by our own capital and a long-term commitment to do something meaningful here.” In addition to a planned 15,000seat stadium announced in March, plans call for a destination that will integrate pro sports, entertainment, hospitality, residential living and retail into a walkable district located at a site near St. Johns Town Center. The development will serve as home base for Sporting Jax’s men’s and women’s professional soccer teams, and will include facilities to attract high school championships, regional youth tournaments, college athletics and even concerts. u

CHEW ON THIS

WHAT’S NEW AND NOTEWORTHY IN LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK

To help mark the country’s 250th anniversary, the Alhambra Theatre stages the musical 1776 May 14-June 14. For the show, chef DeJuan Roy has prepared a three-course menu offering selections such as Boston bean soup, oven-roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cornbread, apple strudel, and Yankee Doodle cake. A glass of ice tea seems fitting, too, don’t you think?

 One need not travel to Dublin to enjoy a traditional Irish brunch. In April, Donovan’s Irish Pub in Palencia began offering classic Emerald Isle breakfast fare on Sunday mornings. The menu features thick-cut bacon, sausages, black and white pudding, grilled tomatoes, baked beans and Irish soda bread. Oh, and bottomless mimosas. Not really Irish, but we’re all for it.

 About a dozen Saucy! by KFC locations have sprouted recently across Florida, including 4816 Gate Parkway. The new tech-forward fastfood eateries are designed to be something of a late-night hangout with dimmed lights, piped-in music and brighter, bolder flavors—including the drinks. Drips by Pepsi are fountain drinks laced with flavors such as salted caramel and chocolate, blue raspberry boba, pineapple, jalapeno, mint, Tajin and dragon fruit.

chef Peter and Kristin Kenney opened a new breakfast and lunch cafe on Anastasia Island. Housed in the former Purple Olive restaurant along Hwy. A1A south, Beach Bagels serves salads, bagels (of course), bowls and sand-and-surf inspired sandwiches like the Hamolulu—ham and pineapple with Datil pepper honey cream cheese and lettuce on sourdough ($11).

 Also in St. Augustine, the region’s second Pickle Factory opened in the old Coca-Cola plant on San Marco Avenue. Gourmet pickles, specialty brined foods, and other pickle merchandise are for sale. There’s even a “pickle window,” where patrons can order a pickle on a stick to go. Cold can of pickle beer, anyone?

 Vista Brooklyn, a mixeduse development featuring a 308-apartment building with rooftop pool and ground-floor retail at 200 Riverside Avenue, will welcome a new restaurant later this year. Just minutes from Downtown, the new Brooklyn’s Pizza Bar is slated to debut later this summer. • Also in Brooklyn—Jax not NYC—a new 1928 Cuban Bistro has opened. The eighth location in the homegrown string of 1928s, the eatery specializes in Cuban classics, soups, salads, croquetas and coffee for breakfast and lunch.

 St. Augustine culinary couple

 In April, Marriott International and Indigo Road Hospitality Group announced plans to open Hotel Merrydelle in the former Ambassador Hotel building downtown. The 109-key boutique property will include a coffee/pastry shop and a full-service restaurant and bar, Colletta. Italian for “collection,” the 120-seat eatery plans to serve a seasonal menu of wood-fired pizzas, housemade pasta, Italian wines and cocktails. The hotel is slated to open in 2027.

Mark Your Calendars:

The Blue Crab Festival returns to downtown Palatka May 22-24. Dozens of food trucks and other vendors will line the riverfront site serving a mix of seafood, as well as arts and crafts. Plus, there will be two live music stages, a kids’ play zone and a water ski show on the St. Johns.

Goodbyes: After some three decades pouring pints, the Fly’s Tie Irish pub in Atlantic Beach closed in late March. Owner Ralph Tiernan’s establishment was loved for its Guinness, Irish eats and Premier League football matches on the telly.

 A Downtown fixture for nearly a decade, Bellwether shut its doors in March. The kimchi tater tots, shrimp and grits, and smashed burgers will be missed. u

Mayor of East Bay Street

FROM NEWSPAPERS TO SHIRTS TO THERMAL UNDERWEAR, BENNIE ERLICH WAS BORN TO SELL IT

BY TIM GILMORE

The stooped man scurried about the brick storefront, chewing the stub of his cigar, placing hand-written price tags in the mouths of work boots tacked to suitcases along one edge of the sidewalk. Standing five-foot, five-inches tall, Bennie Erlich, the workers’ haberdasher, wore his usual fedora, bowtie, blue knit pants that buttoned on the side, and told Florida Times-Union journalist Lyn Lazarus in 1972, “Never liked a long tie. Gets in the soup.”

It was “Old Daughtry,” the lawyer known colloquially as Boss Towers, who’d dubbed Bennie “the Mayor of East Bay Street,” and mayors from the 1960s through the ’80s addressed

him as “Mayor.” Lazarus called his store “the United Nations of Bay Street,” since Bennie Erlich’s customers came off ships from Greece, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Palestine and Egypt. His brother Manny, who helped run the store, spoke Spanish and Yiddish and Bennie had picked up some German and Greek.

On the hand-painted wooden sign over the sidewalk, a younger, more dynamic Bennie pointed into Benny’s Men’s Store, 109 East Bay St., “Seamen’s Outfitters.” He spelled his name in the name of the shop with a ‘y’, like in J.C. Penney, the downtown department store, though his first name ended in ‘i-e.’ Manny stayed inside to greet custom-

ers, while Bennie worked the doorway and the sidewalk, saying “How do?” and “How are ya?” to every passerby. He knew every politician in the city for most of a century.

Business had peaked during World War II when the Jacksonville Shipyards employed 20,000 people and built 82 Liberty ships right out in front of Bay Street. When Bennie died in 1995, 88 years old, his brother Manny said the store was his life.

Back in the ’40s, Bennie opened at four in the morning, so shipbuilders and longshoremen could stop in on their way to work. “When I’d get here,” he explained to Lazarus, “the side-

walk would be lined up with vegetables and farmers who’d been here since two AM would be selling their homegrowns to the restaurant owners. The vegetables would be lined up all the way from Ocean Street and all the way down Bay Street.”

Bennie started smoking cigars when he was 12 (sometimes he said 14), took his first job, paperboy for The Florida Metropolis, when he was 13, quit school after his bar mitzvah. Bennie was eight when his parents, Minnie and Max, moved to Jax from Savannah. They lived at the corner of Church and Broad streets, where his brother and future business partner Emanuel was born, edge of the historically black neighborhood of LaVilla. Synagogue B’nai Israel stood a block-and-half away.

When his papa asked him what he wanted to do when he grew up, Bennie told him, “There are two things I want. I want to be a merchant and I want to be a bachelor. Papa told me I’d be lonely, but I said it’s okay—I know this and I know what I want.” He just wanted to sell things, he said. When he sold newspapers, he’d start out carrying 40 papers from the Metropolis headquarters at Main and Forsyth streets, “and I’d sell down Main” three miles to Evergreen Cemetery.

Goldie Goldstein, manager of the men’s department at Furchgott’s Department Store, said he liked the way Bennie sold papers, gave him a job working “in stiff collars and white shirts.” Bennie was 15. Then he and another salesman got fired for fighting. “I was supposed to stay in shirts and collars,” he said. “My customer needed a hat, so I took him to the hat department.” The hat salesman popped Bennie in the face for encroaching on his territory and Bennie hit him back.

But that’s when Morris Ossinsky, with his old Russian accent, gave Bennie the job at his men’s clothing shop, seven in the morning to seven at night. It was 1923. He worked for Ossinsky until the old man’s death 11 years later. “Because I knew I was a hustler and my papa knew I was a hustler,” Bennie said, “I asked him for money to rent the store. I reopened it in my name, August 14, 1934.”

In the 1970s, everyone fled Downtown who could, except for a few romantic holdouts and stubborn old men, and Bennie started getting robbed. On January 3, 1978, at 5:30 in the afternoon, just as he was closing for the day, a young man came in and pistol-whipped him a couple times across the face. When he told Bennie to give him all his money, Bennie said, “You’re not gonna get a damn thing.”

The man hit him over the head and fled. That same year, Bennie moved into a Philips Highway motel, where he’d live until 1989. On August 25, 1979, three men knocked him down as he left his room in the morning and stole his wallet. They also broke his hip.

In the early ‘80s, Mayor Jake Godbold came by to see Bennie regularly. “He stops in the middle of the street. He double-parks,” Bennie complained. “Anybody else would get a ticket. He gets out and hollers, ‘How you gettin’ along there, Mayor?’”

In March 1988, Bennie said he was still getting robbed, but now the perpetrators were Big Business. He couldn’t compete with the

Continued on page 18

1. Emanuel and Bennie Erlich, March 9, 1988. Photo by Will Dickey. Image courtesy Special Collections, Jacksonville Public Libraries

2. Bennie and Emanuel Erlich, locking up for the last time, February 28, 1989. Photo by Will Dickey, Florida Times-Union

3. Bennie Erlich on his last day of business, February 28, 1989. Photo by Will Dickey, image courtesy Special Collections, Jacksonville Public Libraries

4. August 14, 1973. Photo by Don Ray, Jacksonville Journal

5. Date and photographer uncertain, Jacksonville Journal

Walmarts of the world, which bought in enormous bulk. Walmart sold “sweatshirts for $4.88 that I’m buying for five dollars wholesale. How can I sell them for $4.88?” he said.

He still smoked ten cigars a day. On the last day of February, 1989, the folks next door at Nautical Supply Co. gave him a box of 100 as a retirement gift. He said he’d quit smoking when he finished the box. He had another six years to live. Manny died in 2004. They’d sold every last item. They sold the cashier’s counter and the cash register and the sign. The final sale was a pair of thermal underwear. u

Southern Grits

“Originally created by Native Americans through the grinding of corn, grits were passed on to enslaved Africans as a part of their food allowance provided by plantation owners. Maximizing local resources along the coast, enslaved Africans and their Gullah Geechee descendants caught and used shrimp in a variety of ways, including combining them with grits. What was once a simple Gullah meal prepared using food allowances, natural seasonings and readily accessible Low Country seafood is now a staple of Southern cuisine and a pricy dish on the menu of Jacksonville’s trendy restaurants.” So write authors Ennis Davis and Adrienne Burke in their new book Jacksonville’s Gullah Geechee Heritage (Arcadia Publishing, $35 hardback). Released in late April, the 128-page read is peppered with black and white photos and local history that lives on in the land, neighborhoods and memories passed down through generations. u

Today, the beaches of Jacksonville are lined with million dollar showplaces, towering condo buildings and assorted restaurants and shops. It wasn’t that long ago that our shoreline was considered near wilderness, a place one visited to escape the summer heat of the city. How much the area has changed is explored in a new exhibition at the Beaches Museum. Atlantic Beach 100, an updated history of the city and a celebration of its centennial, traces its early years as a beachfront vacation haven in the early 1900s to the vibrant community it is today. A collection of photos, artifacts and first-person stories recount its role in things such as professional golf, World War II and the people whose names still appear on street signs and parks throughout the area. On display through August 23. u

Though not as well known to history as locations such as Bunker Hill and Valley Forge, Northeast Florida played its role during the War For Independence. For example, the Battle of Thomas Creek, May 17, 1777, saw a small American patriot force of Georgia militia and Continentals ambushed by mounted British loyalists and Native American allies. It was the southernmost battle of the American Revolution and, in terms of wins and losses, not a good day for the upstart rebels. Also, the Battle of Alligator Bridge took place on June 30, 1778, marking the failure of a third, and final, attempt by American Patriots to invade British East Florida. Following a skirmish and pursuit, Georgia militia under Col. Elijah Clarke was repulsed at a fortified bridge near present-day Callahan by British regulars led by Major Mark Prevost. Again, not a good day for the revolution.

To mark these occasions and take part in the nation’s America250 celebrations, the Jacksonville Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will stage a series of local events, such as the recognition of the 250-year-old Treaty Oak as a Liberty Tree, which took place in April. On Saturday, June 20, the organization will commemorate the Battle of Alligator Bridge with a gathering at the Nassau County Fairgrounds. Then, come July there will be additional events, including a Spirit of America Celebration reading of the Declaration of Independence and bell ringing at the Orange Park Town Hall on July 8, exactly 250 years after the Declaration was first read aloud to the public on the steps of Philadelphia’s Independence Hall.

NUMBER$ GAME

J The hum of new construction continues in Downtown Jax, with the completion of a 205-unit apartment building on the horizon. The Vandeveer is the first residential opportunity in Pearl Square, an emerging nine-block neighborhood of residential buildings, dining and retail space, and public parks. The Vandeveer apartments will rest atop some 22,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space, including a Japanese restaurant from The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, operators of O-Ku in Jax Beach. Apartments in the new building will range from studios to two-bedroom units with amenities such as co-working spaces, a club room, outdoor terrace with pool, gym and pet spa. “With thoughtfully designed residences, an anchor restaurant, and its prime location directly across from public parks, Vandeveer sets the tone for the vibrant, walkable neighborhood we are building in the heart of Jacksonville,” says Bryan Moll, CEO of developer Gateway Jax. The name Vandeveer honors Thomas Vandeveer Porter, whose historic Porter House Mansion, designed by Henry Klutho following the Great Fire of 1902, stands as the centerpiece of the public spaces that anchor the neighborhood. The building’s first residents are expected by late summer 2026. u

Small Town Charm

MAIN STREET ADVENTURES ARE EASY TO FIND IN SLEEPY SANFORD

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

Intrepid adventurers are discovering the delights of main street communities throughout the South, including places such as the Central Florida town of Sanford. An easy drive from Jacksonville, located on the shores of Lake Monroe (part of the St Johns River), the community’s town center has been revitalized, preserving its historic character and charm.

Sanford embraces three districts listed in the National Register of Historic Places—Downtown, Residential and Georgetown—where visitors can enjoy a variety of historical and architectural encounters. The Residential District alone has more than 400 noteworthy homes, while the Georgetown District is an historically African American neighborhood that was founded during the Jim Crow era.

The waterfront, just a few blocks away, is

one of Sanford's most alluring attractions. If you're eager to see the wildlife and natural beauty along the river's edge, enjoy the sights and a mealtime cruise aboard the Rivership Barbara-Lee, a sternwheeler operated by the St. Johns Rivership Co. Animal lovers will also enjoy the Central Florida Zoo, a lush, Floridian environment where you can feed the giraffes, have an up-close encounter with "PJ" the rhinoceros, or simply enjoy a leisurely wander.

Of course, no visit is complete without heading into Sanford's compact Downtown District for its culinary attractions. This includes Wondermade, makers of worldclass marshmallow treats, The Old Jailhouse Kitchen & Spirits, the perfect combination of historic charm and modern luxury inside a preserved jailhouse, Hollerbach's German Restaurant, especially enjoyable once the

yodeling and accordions get underway, The District, serving contemporary American cuisine, and St. John’s River Steak & Seafood with panoramic views of Lake Monroe.

Of note are the surprising number of watering holes concentrated within the commercial district including Suffering Bastard, Wet Spot, Sullivan Public House, Loggerhead Distillery and Dees Brothers Brewery. You can also spend the night aboard a houseboat on Lake Monroe or in a restored fire station in town (both Airbnb), then put on your walking shoes and start exploring.

Whether you come for the day, stay overnight, or spend the weekend, Sanford offers an impressive selection of memorable and undeniably delightful historical, outdoor and culinary adventures that make the twohour drive south well worth it. u

Happy Birthday!

Celebrating the Fourth of July on a Florida beach is a match made in summertime heaven. That dream day is even better when the beach is just steps from the broad grassy lawn at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. In honor of the country’s 250th anniversary, the oceanside resort is hosting the Red, White & Deep Blue Barbecue on July 4th. This all-American milestone celebration will feature a range of holiday festivities, from classic lawn games to a chef-crafted barbecue showcasing summer classics alongside seafood specialties from the Ritz-Carlton’s award-winning kitchens. Oh, and the pastry team will present an abundance of suitably red, white and blue desserts. The evening culminates with waterside seating for a fireworks show lighting up the sky starting at 9:15 PM. Tickets for kids ages 4-9 are $65, and ages 10 and up $165. u

Often described as an underwater Easter egg hunt, searching for scallops requires a few things in nature, notably clean, clear water and shallow grassy flats just a few feet deep. Fortunately, the Sunshine State has a destination that offers these in spades. The Crystal River and Homosassa area, also called Florida’s Nature Coast, spill into shallow Gulf waters that are prime habitat for wild scallops. With a mask, snorkel, fins and a small net, swimmers are able to drift over the seagrass and scan for the tasty marine bivalve mollusks as they move through the water. Yes, they do swim. For those new to scalloping, guides and charter captains can provide all the necessary gear, including the boat. Scallop season runs July 1 through September 24. Be careful with your fingers, though. A scallop can snap its shells closed and it does pinch. u

NAMES & FACES

Dennis Rodman, an NBA Hall of Famer and one of the most unconventional athletes of our time, will make an appearance at the River City Wrestling Con, set for June 6 and 7 at the World Golf Village Resort. The “Worm” will take part in autograph sessions, photo opportunities, and VIP experiences on Sunday.

Meet Franciso , one of the manatees swimming and living in the Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ new Manatee River Habitat. His roommates include Alpine and Cullen.

Bravo to actor and Bolles School alum Will Ropp, who received standing ovations and rave reviews for his directorial debut Brian. The movie, a coming-ofage comedy featuring William H. Macy, Edi Patterson and Ben Wang, was a runaway hit at this year’s South by Southwest festival, held March 12-18 in Austin, Texas.

Recently, MOCA Jacksonville announced it had received the single largest gift ever made to the museum—courtesy of Dita Domonkos—and five works of art by some of the most significant artists of the past hundred years, including Frank Stella, Damien Hirst and Josef Albers, gifted by Preston (pictured) and Joan Haskell

Ironman Jacksonville was May 16. Among the thousands participating was Jax’s own Lori Elliott, 60, the first person to complete a triathlon on all seven continents (including Antarctica in 2025). And full and halfmarathons on all seven, too. Keep running, Lori!

Animal Magnetism

CONSERVATION, SUSTAINABILITY, AND PHILANTHROPY ALL COME TOGETHER FOR THE CAUSE OF CUTE CREATURES.

BY KAYLA BYRD

Animal lovers in Northeast Florida can enjoy a wide variety of experiences where they are asked to snuggle up with some furry friends. From alpaca farms to local shelters, there are unique experiences for people to enrich the lives of different species and learn how to care for them.

For example, those looking to interact with animals they normally wouldn’t see during their day-to-day, the Capybara Café in St. Augustine offers interactions that teach participants about exotic animals. While known for their capybara encounters where participants can feed and pet the South American rodents, there is also the option to meet armadillos, lemurs, coatimundis, and wallabies. When you first enter the café, you’ll notice a distinct lack of coffee and an abundance of animals ready to greet you. With rabbits, baby goats, and ferrets running around the waiting room,

you’ll be greeted by the friendliest welcoming committee before your official encounter.

But for the Capybara Café, it’s not just about setting up wildlife experiences, it’s about conservation. Jonaven Viera, a lead supervisor at Capybara, says, “We’re taking strides in both funding other conservation efforts across the state of Florida, as well as developing some of our own. There’s a lot of missions like that that we're trying to support, including low-cost vet clinics, transportation of multiple animals in the state of an evacuation.” Through the non-profit Noah’s Ark Sanctuary, St. Augustine’s Fluffy Cow Café and Capybara Café help take care of endangered and neglected animals.

One of the best things to learn about was the attention paid to the capybaras by their caretakers. During the experience, Jonaven taught the group all about the ways they

protect the animals. “Our capybaras do not stay on property. They go home to our seven-acre sanctuary every day. That's where they have most of their facilities.”

Not only do the rodents reside in a large sanctuary where they can roam and play, but they also choose whether or not they want to go into work that day. If capybaras choose not to board the van that takes them to the café, they get to stay back at the sanctuary.

Another South American animal that people are allowed to interact with in Jax are the alpacas at Shady Rest. Run by Trina Hope, Shady Rest seeks to teach others about the fascinating animals, as well as how to use their byproducts for sustainable farming. By organizing fun events on the farm like birthday and holiday parties, private tours, and workshops, guests may receive hands-on experience of what it’s like to care for the herd.

Far from a simple petting zoo, this is a business. Trina sells both the alpaca poop and their hair at her Farm Store. Their poop is a great fertilizer for any garden, and their hair is turned into yarn which can then be felted into different products. The fibers can be used as dryer balls, an exfoliating outer layer for bar soap, nesting balls for birds, or dyed and turned into art pieces.

Her love for her herd is on full display. “I just found them fascinating and I love the education portion; you can do so many things with alpacas. I just wanted to share that with everybody,” she says.

Each alpaca that came up to her and kissed her on the nose, was just another testament to the care she provides. In the barn, participants stand against the wall and feed the alpacas one at a time. It’s easy to tell the animals apart as they each have a distinct haircut to fit his or her personality, like Willie the wild-natured alpaca rocking a mullet.

The haircuts are more than just cosmetic. Trina shears the alpacas twice a year to combat the heat, as opposed to farmers in colder climates that only shear once annually. She also set up a sprinkler system, gives them electrolyte water, and makes them cold popsicles made of carrots, tangerines, or watermelon to keep them cool. The property is private, so anyone who wants to tour and potentially get their own kiss from one of her sweet boys will have to contact Trina through social media or her website.

If you still want to connect with a furry friend but you’re not looking for something as wild, Jacksonville’s Animal Care & Protective Services and Humane Society offer different opportunities to help out at their facilities. Entering a shelter can be daunting, as it’s easy to feel saddened for the animals who have experienced surrender, abuse, or neglect. But spending more time there opens up your heart and makes you excited to come back. With opportu-

nities to volunteer at both JHS and ACPS based on preference, you can choose to help with tasks such as doing laundry, providing enrichment for cats, or taking dogs out for their daily walks.

Both shelters also offer a program where dogs can be taken for a day out of their kennels. As animals become stressed from an extended time locked up, it can become more difficult for them to get adopted. When walking past each dog, it was disheartening to know how much they wanted to be on the other side of the door. But the care they receive from excited volunteers and staff can help brighten their spirits.

During a day out, volunteers may take dogs out to a farmer’s market, the beach, or back to their house to help the dog relax. While out, dogs might be seen by someone who falls in love and decides to adopt them.

“Volunteering, fostering, and taking dogs on Dog Day Outs make a huge difference in the lives of the animals at JHS,” says Savanna New, assistant director of development and education. “JHS cares for nearly 11,000 dogs and cats each year, and we rely on the support of our generous community to ensure that each and every individual animal is given the compassionate care, love, and second chance they deserve.”

As kitten season approaches, the ability to foster becomes even more important. Fosters can help alleviate the stress that kittens feel by watching them overnight or over the course of a few weeks, as it can be the hardest to keep them healthy when they’re so young.

Spending time with animals, from the exotic to the household, can make your days brighter. It opens you up to experiencing something new and teaches you about an unconditional love. Petting soft alpaca coats, feeding capybaras, and snuggling up with a foster pet all make Jacksonville a better city for both its people and animals. u

The region was blessed with a few April and May showers, the first seemingly measurable rainfall across Northeast Florida in months. However, according to the St. Johns River Water Management District, the entire region is classified as being in extreme drought—conditions that have resulted in declines in groundwater levels and reduced surface water flows in rivers and streams.

Florida is home to more than 1,000 natural springs, the highest concentration in the world, and 148 of those springs are located within the St. Johns River Water Management District. Springs are a visible connection to the Floridan aquifer, the primary source of drinking water for most Floridians. Approximately 90 percent of the state’s residents rely on groundwater for their drinking water, making the protection of springs and aquifers essential to Florida’s environment, communities and economy.

“Florida’s springs are among our state’s most valuable natural resources,” says St. Johns River Water Management District executive director Mike Register. “Protecting them means conserving water, improving water quality and continuing restoration work with our partners across the region.” u

A recently released peer-reviewed scientific study revealed that the Gulf serves as a regular winter habitat for white sharks migrating thousands of miles from the northeastern United States. The research, published in the journal Wildlife Research, tracked the movements of 92 white sharks tagged between Nova Scotia, Canada, and Jacksonville as part of a long-term collaborative research effort coordinated by OCEARCH. Using satellite-linked smart position (SPOT), pop-up archival (PSAT), and acoustic tags, researchers discovered that more than half of the sharks tracked—57 individuals across all life stages—spent significant time in the Gulf or Straits of Florida, primarily between December and May. The findings reshape long-standing assumptions about the species’ seasonal movements in the western North Atlantic. “For years we suspected white sharks were using the Gulf more than people realized,” says Chris Fischer, founder and expedition leader of the Mayport-based OCEARCH. “This research confirms the Gulf is a regular winter habitat for this population and highlights how connected the ecosystems of the Atlantic Ocean truly are.” u

Family First

MOVING INTO AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY IS A MAJOR LIFE TRANSITION, BOTH FOR SENIORS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

While the goal is to ensure safety, comfort, and quality of life, the decision involves many factors that must be carefully weighed. From financial planning to lifestyle preferences, each detail contributes to how well a senior thrives in their new environment. Knowing that, following are five key considerations to keep in mind when evaluating assisted living communities.

 The starting point in any search is assessing the individual’s care requirements. Assisted living communities are designed to provide varying levels of support, from help with daily activities like bathing and dressing to medication management and mobility assistance. Understanding what level of care is needed now, and what may be needed in the future, is crucial in choosing a facility that can adapt as health conditions change. Some

communities specialize in memory care for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s, while others may focus on active seniors who want minimal support. By clarifying care needs early, families can avoid the stress of relocating again if circumstances evolve.

 Cost is one of the most significant factors in choosing assisted living. Monthly fees often cover housing, meals, and basic services, but additional care or amenities may come at an extra cost. Families should review contracts carefully to understand what is included and what could result in higher expenses. It’s important to explore financial planning options and ask questions such as is assisted living tax deductible and whether insurance or long-term care policies cover certain services.

 Where the community is located plays a

huge role in satisfaction. Proximity to family and friends allows for frequent visits and stronger support networks, while closeness to hospitals, specialists, and pharmacies ensures easy access to medical care. Seniors often thrive when they remain connected to familiar surroundings, whether it’s their hometown or a neighborhood where they have long-standing ties. Accessibility within the community itself is equally important. Families should evaluate whether facilities are designed with mobility in mind, offering features like wheelchair ramps, wide hallways, and accessible bathrooms to accommodate changing needs.

 Assisted living isn’t only about care, it’s about lifestyle. The right community should align with the senior’s personal interests and hobbies. Many facilities offer activity calendars filled with fitness classes, cultural outings, art workshops, and social events that foster a sense of engagement and belonging. Amenities such as dining options, outdoor spaces, and wellness programs further enhance the quality of life. Touring a facility, sampling meals, and observing activities firsthand can provide valuable insights into whether the environment feels welcoming and vibrant.

 The quality of staff directly impacts the safety and happiness of residents. Families should inquire about staff training, certifications, and ongoing professional development. Specialized training in dementia care, emergency response, and elder communication skills is valuable.

Staff-to-resident ratios are another critical factor. A facility with adequate staffing ensures that seniors receive timely assistance, personalized attention, and higher-quality care. During visits, families should observe how staff interact with residents; kindness, patience, and respect are non-negotiable qualities in a supportive environment.

Choosing assisted living should address immediate needs and anticipate future possibilities. Health conditions may progress, and families should confirm whether the community can provide higher levels of care if required. Some facilities allow residents to transition seamlessly from assisted living to more comprehensive nursing or memory care services without relocating.

Planning ahead minimizes the disruption of having to move again, which can be stressful for both seniors and their families. By selecting a community that supports aging in place, families create stability and continuity of care for the long term. u

Catch a Wave

The city recently welcomed it first professional women’s soccer team, Sporing Jax, playing in the USL W League. This spring, another professional women’s organization debuts in Northeast Florida. The Jacksonville Waves, a new pro women’s basketball team and a member of the UPSHOT League, begins its inaugural four-month season in May. RadiFi Credit Union has signed on a presenting sponsor. “Women’s sports are experiencing powerful, sustained growth, and it’s partnerships like this that turn momentum into lasting impact,” says team co-founder Donna Orender (who, by the way, was a heck of a player herself back in the day). “The Jacksonville Waves are becoming part of Jacksonville—bringing people together, inspiring the next generation, and building something that truly belongs to the community.” The Waves and head coach Jessica Bogie (pictured) tipped off their season with the first home game on May 15 against the Charlotte Crown at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Additional games are May 23 and June 18, 19 and 21. Tickets range from $18 to $52. u

CHILD'S PLAY

Back for its 29th year this July is the three-show Summer Theatreworks children’s theater series. Founded in 1979, the troupe merged with the Florida Theatre seven years ago. The shows open with an interactive, two-person retelling of the L. Frank Baum classic, Wizard of Oz, on July 7. The following week, Aesop’s fable Tortoise and the Hare is given a fun, updated twist in this musical staged July 14. Closing out the series is Zak Morgan: The Wonder of it All, a one-man “science is fun” production featuring plasma balls, sound waves and kid-friendly humor, on July 20. Performances are held at 11 AM and 1 PM at the Florida Theatre. Best of all, seats are free for all three shows. To reserve in advance, visit the Theatreworks website. u

Among the obstacles that keep drivers and putters out of many kids’ hands these days is the cost to play. Quality golf equipment isn’t cheap and greens fees can be far out of reach for kids and teens. While that’s true, one group and a couple of financial heavy hitters are looking to change that. Golf With Us is a partnership between Youth On Course and Bank of America with a goal of making golf more accessible to young players.

“Golf teaches powerful life lessons, how to compete, stay patient, and handle setbacks, and those lessons shape who you become,” says two-time Masters champion Rory McIlroy, who recently donated $500,000 to Youth on Course, a gift that will help fund some 70,000 rounds for young players. “Opening access to the game is key to giving more kids that opportunity.”

For a limited time, kids ages 6 to 18 who register for the program can reserve tee times at courses across the country, including three in Northeast Florida. The cost to tee up? About what it takes to buy a new Titleist. Kids who enroll for a one-year membership to Youth on Course (with consent of an adult), can play a round for $5. Last year, members logged more than 100,000 rounds of golf across the country. The three area courses open to play for the discounted rate are Hidden Hills Golf Club, Blue Sky Golf Club and Brentwood Golf Course. Enrollment is open until June 15 at BOFA.com/GolfwithUs. u

THE TO-DO LIST

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA

Jazz Piano Competition

MAY 21, 7PM

The Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition has been a local tradition for more than 30 years. This year, five finalists—Ian McCune, Max Holm, Christian Valdes, Quintin Harris and Rowan Tucker-Meyer—compete May 21, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre. The first place winner receives a monetary prize and will perform onstage during the Jacksonville Jazz Festival. Admission is free.

FESTIVAL

St. Augustine Romanza Festivale

St. Augustine’s Romanza Festivale of Music and The Arts is two weeks of daily events featuring dozens concerts, shows, exhibits and more at locations throughout the city and showcasing productions by dozens of local arts and cultural nonprofit organizations (Third Space Improv, St. Augustine Orchestra, First Coast Opera and others), May 1-17. Most events are free.

ANIMALS

Dinosauria

Travel back in time and come faceto-face with more than 40 life-size dinosaurs in the largest Dinosauria experience in Jacksonville Zoo history. From a towering Brachiosaurus to a roaring T. rex, the immersive adventure brings prehistoric creatures to life with interactive fossil experiences for all ages, presented at the Zoo through August 2.

THEATRE 1776

EXHIBITION A Moment in Time

As the nation marks its semiquincentennial anniversary, the Lightner Museum and the First Coast Plein Air Painters celebrate the timeless beauty of Northeast Florida and its place in America’s story. In the late nineteenth century, America’s First Coast emerged as a seasonal haven for painters from artist colonies across the United States. They were captivated by the region’s expansive skies, historic architecture, and diverse landscapes. A Moment in Time: America 250 is on display through July 14 at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine.

OPERA

Trouble in Tahiti

The Amelia Island Opera presents and evening of music and drama with Leonard Bernstein’s Trouble in Tahiti and Gioachino Rossini’s Il Signor Bruschino May 22, 7 PM, at the Amelia Island Chapel in Fernandina Beach, $50.

TV

The Late Show

The last episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert airs on May 22. CBS has said the long-running talk show will be replaced by Comics Unleashed, a long-syndicated comedy panel show. Will anyone besides Colbert notice?

Classic musical is based on the events surrounding the drafting and the signing of the Declaration of Independence, if only our founding fathers can agree to do it. Staged May 14-June 14 at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining. Three-course dinner included, $45-$84.

MUSIC

Willie Nelson & Family

With a career spanning seven decades, Willie Nelson remains a defining force in music and culture. In recent years, he has released a steady stream of new music and books, including the Grammy-winning A Beautiful Time, and celebrated his 90th birthday with a star-studded concert film. He plays May 21, 7:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $76-$162.

FESTIVAL

Jacksonville Jazz Festival

The annual festival is back for Memorial Day Weekend in Downtown Jax, May 2124. For more than four decades, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival has brought people together to celebrate music, community, and good vibes. This year, things kick off Thursday night at the Florida Theatre with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition. Next is three days of free live performances at Ford on Bay in the heart of Downtown. Scheduled performers include Sheila E. & the E-Train, Moonchild, Parliament Funkadelic, Butcher Brown and Andra Day.

DANCE

At the Ballet: Symphony in 60

The Florida Ballet and Jacksonville Dance Theatre return to Jacoby Symphony Hall for this annual collaboration with the Jacksonville Symphony. The program blends the elegance of ballet with the energy of modern dance. It’s a celebration of movement, music and artistry. Commencing with a lively cocktail hour in the lobby and engaging introductions by the conductor, performances are May 21, 6:30 PM, and May 22, 11 AM, $30-$53.

MUSIC

Punch Brothers

Known for pushing the boundaries of acoustic music, the band has garnered critical acclaim, including a Grammy for Best Folk Album for All Ashore (2018). The Washington Post applauded them for taking “bluegrass to its next evolutionary stage, drawing equal inspiration from the brain and the heart.” Hear the banjo, mandolin, bass, violin and more May 26, 8 PM, at the Ponte Concert Hall, $76-$250.

COMEDY

Rob Schneider

After leaving Saturday Night Live in 1994, Schneider went on to star in films including Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, The Hot Chick, You Don’t Mess With the Zohan and the Grownups franchise. He takes the comedy stage May 28, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $64-$149.

COMEDY

John Crist

John Crist is one of today’s fastest-rising stand-up comedians, earning more than one billion video views, more than 7.9 million fans on social media and sold-out shows from coast to coast. He takes the Florida Theatre stage May 29, 7 PM, $44-$174.

MUSIC

The Music of Elton John Michael Cavanaugh returns for the Terry Family Foundation

livering an electrifying tribute to the timeless music of Elton John. With his captivating command of the keys and powerhouse vocals, he breathes new life into beloved hits like “Rocket Man,” “Bennie and the Jets” and “Candle in the Wind,” May 29 and 30, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $39-$98.

DANCE

Heather Loveland Dance Academy

The Academy’s 12th annual Spring Concert features two presentations May 30 and 31, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre. The night opens with Lorelei’s Enchanted Voyage, an enchanted tale of the sea where Lorelei and Lorenzo are lost and meet underwater fish and creatures that eventually bring them back home together. Next, Music Makes the World go ‘Round depicts all various dance styles such as jazz, tap, hip hop and contemporary, all set music that inspires joy and memories of a lifetime, $32.

CHARITY

Spirit of Service Walk/Run

A fundraiser for The Bridges of Northeast Florida, the event champions causes such as education, health, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian relief while also fostering a spirit of unity and service. Participants get moving May 31, 10 AM, at Riverside Park, $15 registration fee for adults.

SPORT

Jacksonville Sharks

The Sharks dove into the 2026 season earlier this spring and the home schedule continues well into summer with games against the Fishers Freight May 30, San Antonio Gunslingers June 6, San Diego Strike Force June 28, Iowa Barnstormers July 18, and the Green Bay Blizzard July 26. Games kick off at either 7 or 7:30 PM inside VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $15-$150.

EXHIBITION

Jiha Moon: Half Moon

Jiha Moon is a contemporary visual artist with a multifaceted practice ranging from

gestural paintings, ceramic sculptures, and installations. She draws from a wide range of influences, including Eastern and Western art histories, Korean temple paintings, popular culture, internet emojis and icons, and product packaging. She often transforms and distorts these visual languages, making them both unrecognizable and strangely familiar at the same time. On display through August 23 at MOCA Jacksonville.

JUNE

SPORT

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

The Shrimp swim back into the friendly confines of VyStar Ballpark for 18 games in June—2-7 versus Nashville Sounds, 9-14 versus Gwinnett Stripers and 23-28 against the Memphis Redbirds. Stick around for fireworks following all Friday and Saturday night games, $8-$140.

MUSIC

KC and the Sunshine Band

Lead man KC and crew created the dance revolution in the 1970s with their unique disco funk sound. Best known for their hits “That’s the Way (I like it),” “(Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty,” “I’m Your Boogie Man,” and “Get Down Tonight,” their songs likely have been played at every wedding for the last 50 years. See them June 3, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $74-$259.

CARS

Gumball 3000

Start your engines. For the first time, the 27th annual Gumball 3000 road rally (Miami to Mexico City) rolls through Amelia Island. On June 5, 6-9 PM, more than 100 supercars will gather along Centre Street for a festival of things that go fast with music and more. An additional event takes place at the Main Street Skatepark, free.

MUSIC

Rachmaninoff’s Third

The Jacksonville Symphony’s season finale features George Li in Rachmaninoff’s exhilarating Piano Concerto No. 3, one of the most intricate, demanding and passionate works in the repertoire. Carlos Simon’s Fate Now Conquers opens the evening with dramatic urgency, leading into Schoenberg’s Transfigured Night, a hauntingly beautiful journey from turmoil to resolution, June 5 and 6, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $33-$96.

MUSIC

Tunes & Blooms

The Jacksonville Zoo’s summer concert series returns with live music, beautiful garden settings, and a community atmosphere June 5, 12, 19 and 26. Purchase of Zoo admission pass required.

EXHIBITION Moment in Time

More than 100 works by photographers from around the world are brought together for Moment in Time: A Legacy of Photographs from the Bank of America Collection, presently on display at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. The exhibition traces the history of photography as an art form, highlighting artists including Henri Cartier-Bresson, Ansel Adams and Walker Evans. On display through September 6.

TV World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup soccer tourney kicks off June 11. The USA opens Group

Play versus Paraguay on June 12 in Los Angeles, followed by matches June 19 (Australia) and June 25 (Turkiye). If they make it to the Finals, they will play July 19 in New Jersey. USA! USA!

MUSIC

Chris Stapleton All-American Road Show

Gritty country superstar, winner of eleven Grammys and some 40 Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards, rides into town as part of his current tour June 11, 7:30 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $93-$525.

FILM

Disclosure Day

Director Steven Spielberg reunites with screenwriter David Kopek for a sci-fi story based on an original idea from Spielberg. Not much is known about the plot, but the cast is all-star with Emily Blunt, Colin Firth and Eve Hewson. Released June 12.

MUSIC

Jax Beach Country Fest

This year’s lineup for the annual beachside hoedown includes Ashley Cooke, Preston Cooper, Madden Metcalf, Stephen Quinn, Liz Bechtle and others, all playing just yards off the sand June 13 at the Seawalk Pavilion. Gates open at 2 PM with the last act taking the stage around 8 PM, free.

MUSIC

Steve Earle

A protege of legendary songwriters Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, Earle quickly became a master storyteller in his own right, with his songs being recorded by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Emmylou Harris, The Pretenders, and countless others. Most recently, he was honored with an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry and was officially inducted in September 2025. He plays June 16, 7:30 PM, at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, $63-$126.

THEATRE

Shrek The Musical

You know the cast… Shrek, Donkey, and Princess Fiona in the DreamWorks classic brought to life on stage. When Lord Farquaad threatens Shrek’s swamp, Shrek and Donkey embark on a fairy tale adventure to rescue Fiona from the dragon’s keep. Many laughs ensue at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, June 18-August 9, $45-$84.

MUSIC

Rick Ross

This stop on the national tour transforms Ross’s chart-defining records into a grand concert experience, blending hip-hop with the powerful sound of a full orchestra and choir for an unforgettable evening of music and elegance. Guests are encouraged

Continued on page 36

Seen

On Saturday, April 18, United Way of Northeast Florida partnered with James Weldon Johnson Park for the inaugural The Cookout: Unity on the Block, a family festival where the city’s neighborhoods were invited to bring their flavors and pride to the table. Guests were treated to an afternoon of music, line dancing, a karaoke sing-off, food trucks, libations and more. Plus, nine swag bags, each representing a Jacksonville neighborhood, were up for grabs. u

COMING SOON:

• The annual Florida Theatre Ball takes place Saturday, May 16 inside the historic concert hall. This year’s theme is “An Evening in the Tropics” and guests will be treated to vibrant music, bold cocktails and cuisine, live performances, dancing, a silent auction and more. Tickets for the fundraiser start at $350.

• Generation W. Honors - A Night of Live Performance and Purpose celebrates Patti McElroy, Michael Ward and Darnell Smith for making a difference in the community and for their support of Generation W and its mission. The evening features cocktails, dinner and a show August 27, 6-10 PM, at the Alhambra Theatre & Dining, $162.

The Jacksonville Symphony Gala is the orchestra’s signature fundraiser and on the evening of February 26, a record $1.4 million was garnered to support music education and community programs. The party featured dinner on the Moran Theater stage, a luxury auction and a performance by the Jacksonville Symphony and Broadway stars Meghan Picerno and Jay Armstrong Johnson. u

to dress in formal black-tie attire for the performance June 20, 8 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $102-$370.

FESTIVAL

JWJ BDAY 5K & Block Party

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in a 5K that celebrates the 155th anniversary of James Weldon Johnson’s birth and travels through the LaVilla neighborhood where the Johnson family lived. Historical markers will line the route with the race finishing back at James Weldon Johnson Park with a block party featuring food trucks, music and more June 20. Race check in begins at 7:30 AM.

MUSIC

Jacksonville Rock Orchestra

The Jax Rock Orchestra is a 27-piece symphony married to the traditional bass, drums, guitar, keyboards and vocals of a rock band and dedicated to interpreting hits songs of the Classic Rock era, but with expansive symphonic arrangements. The whole band is back together for a three-concert series this summer: A Night of Symphonic Rock on June 26; The Music of Green Day July 18; and The Music of David Bowie on August 8. All shows start at 7:30 PM inside the Florida Theatre.

MUSIC

Vince Gill

2025 marked the 50th anniversary of Gill leaving home to pursue a career in music. To honor that milestone, he signed a lifetime recording contract with MCA and released an EP series of brand-new music every month for a year, titled 50 Years from Home. Hear him live June 27, 7:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $65-$150.

JULY

SPORT Banana Ball

The Banana Ball world tour rolls into Jax for three games July 2-4 at VyStar Ballpark. The baseball matchup features the Indianapolis Clowns playing the Loco Beach Coconuts. For those who have never attended, Banana Ball is a fast-paced style of baseball with rules that include no bunting, a two-hour

time limit, fans catching foul balls for outs, batters stealing first base, and a one-onone tiebreaker showdown at the end of the game if it’s tied. Tickets? Good luck.

MUSIC

The Princess Concert

Listen for iconic songs from animated favorites including Frozen, Wicked, K-Pop Demon Hunters, Moana, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty & The Beast, Anastasia, Pocahontas, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and more. Whew, that’s a lot of songs. July 6, 3:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $51-$61.

TV

Little House on the Prairie

A new Little House on the Prairie series reboot is set to premiere on Netflix on July 9. Developed by Rebecca Sonnenshine, this adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books is described as a family drama and survival tale. Who will play Pa? He better have fantastic hair.

MUSIC

Jake Hoot

Jake Hoot, best known as Season 17 winner of The Voice, will perform at the Florida Theatre July 12, 7 PM. Jake has graced

iconic stages like the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, captivating audiences with his rich, soulful voice and undeniable gift for storytelling. With special guest Katie O., $53-$73.

FILM

The Odyssey Academy Award winner Christopher Nolan follows up Oppenheimer with an adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey, which tells the story of Odysseus (Matt Damon) in the aftermath of the Trojan War. The film’s star-studded ensemble includes Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, and more. Opening July 17.

MUSIC

Rodney Atkins

Atkins has charted at least one radio single at Country Radio in three different decades. He is an artist with multi-generational impact whose voice has been a mainstay at Country Radio, challenging all of us to be better no matter our age—parents who are now grandparents, and adults who first heard him while eating a happy meal in their booster seat. Hear Atkins live July 17, 7:30 PM, at the Thrasher-Horne Center, $47-$101.

MUSIC

Men at Work

The band was born in Melbourne, Australia in the middle of 1979 and the group went on to become a globally successful Grammy winning, multi-platinum selling act, during the early ‘80s. The original band broke up years ago (Cricky!), but lead singer Colin Hay carries on and performs many Men at Work’s hits July 17, 6:30 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $60-$161.

MUSIC

Lindsey Strings

Not only a multi-award-winning musician known for her genre-bending virtuosity on electronic violin, she’s endlessly dazzled audiences with her extraordinary talents as a dancer—an element she brings to the stage as part of her spectacular live show. Strings performs July 20, 7 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $66-$163 u

Born to be Wild

PHOTOS BY MORGAN CALENBERG

Immediately upon passing under the towering entrance canopy and stepping through the admission gates, guests are greeted with fish-eye views of the Jacksonville Zoo & Botantical Gardens’ new manatee habitat, a visually stunning attraction that celebrated its grand opening March 6. Officially called the VyStar SkyScape and J. Wayne and Delores Weaver Manatee River, the two additions make up the bulk of a $72 million transformation at the 112-year-old zoo.

The entire attraction, including the water filtration and life support systems, one mile of pipe and other behind-thescenes portions, covers some two acres. Overhead, translucent roofs eliminate the need for daytime lighting and reduce heat for visitors and provide shade for the manatees. Too much sun can lead to sunburn on visitors, as well as the animals. A bank of 23 variable-speed pumps and a centralized computer system keeps the water moving and clean. Also helping keep the tanks clean are staff divers who enter each day to scrub algae from the 6-inch thick glass walls.

Built to house and rehabilitate up to 20 of the marine mammals at a time, presently there are three male manatees—Alpine, Francisco and Cullen—that call the 350,000-gallon exhibit home, at least temporarily. The facility was specially built to rescue, rehabilitate and release Florida’s signature wild animal, and not make it a permanent home. If all goes well, Alpine will be released later this year.

The exhibit features three connected main pools visible at the zoo entrance, as well as four smaller pools out of sight in back. The main pools, which can be divided into separate spaces if needed, have been designed to recreate a North Florida river habitat with native fish, reptiles and birds. To the left, a small waterfall was modeled after the tiny falls near Steinhatchee, in the Big Bend portion of the state. The pools in back can be used for separation of animals and medical treatment. Two of the pools have floors that can be raised or lowered, so staff can wade into the water if needed to care for the animals. Also, a built-in crane system high overhead is utilized to lift a manatee—which can grow to more than nine feet in length and weigh some 1,000 pounds—into and out of the facility.

The Jax Zoo’s manatees are fed a daily diet of Romaine lettuce—and only Romaine lettuce—up to 100 pounds each per day. Out back, a separate building houses two large coolers stuffed with shelf after shelf of the leafy greens. In fact, the cost to feed the manatees is more than the total expense to feed all the other mammals, birds and reptiles at the 2,000-animal zoo. u

JAX BEST IN 2026

Drum roll, please… Introducing the winners of this year’s Best in Jax Readers Poll, highlighting more than 100 categories of people, places, things to do and more.

KARA POUND, KIM BROWN, KELSEY HEARNS, ORANGE FARINELLA, FABRIZIO GOWDY AND JEFFREY SPEAR CONTRIBUTED TO THIS ARTICLE

ARTS, CULTURE & People

ANNUAL CHARITY GALA

Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Wine Gala

The Jay Fund Wine Tasting is a signature event of the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation, where guests can sip and savor wines and dishes from over 40 local restaurants and wine suppliers. The 2026 event raised over $340,000, with more than 1,000 guests coming together to support families tackling childhood cancer. Superbowl-winning coach Tom Coughlin created the Jay Fund in honor of Jay McGillis, a young man who developed leukemia while playing for Coach Coughlin at Boston College. In the charity’s 30 years, the Jay Fund has provided over $34 million in support to more than 6,700 families in Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia and the New York Metropolitan area. tcjayfund.org

RUNNER-UP: Jacksonville Symphony Gala

Bold new sounds, powerful crescendos and engaging performances are always in season at the Jacksonville Symphony. The annual Jacksonville Symphony Gala raises funds for its music education and community impact programs

that reach tens of thousands of students and families each year. Jaxsymphony.org

MUSEUM

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens (SEE BELOW)

RUNNER-UP: MOCA Jacksonville

In the heart of downtown Jacksonville, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA) brings contemporary art alive for visitors of all ages. As a cultural institute of the University of North Florida and one of the largest contemporary art institutions in the Southeastern U.S., it continues to serve the community through camps, classes and by highlighting breakout artists from around the world. MOCAJacksonville.unf.edu

COMMUNITY THEATER

Theatre Jacksonville

RUNNER UP: Players By the Sea

CONCERT VENUE

Florida Theatre

From strumming troubadours to pop rock icons and everything in between, the historic Florida Theatre on E. Forsyth Street in downtown Jacksonville is the 904’s favorite place to catch a concert. Opened in April 1927 (nearly a century ago!)

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. The Cummer offers a tranquil escape along the St. Johns River where art, history and nature meet. Established in 1958 from the personal collection of philanthropist Ninah Cummer, the former home now showcases more than 5,000 works of art. The museum’s celebrated English, Italian and Sculpture Gardens, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, span over a century of landscape design and local legacy. Seasonal exhibitions, from floral-inspired installations to thought-provoking historical works, ensure there’s always something new to discover. A visit here feels both inspiring and restorative, making it a standout cultural treasure in Northeast Florida. CummerMuseum.org

and added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1982, this 1,865-seat venue has played host to some of the biggest acts in history, including Elvis’ six shows played over two days in August 1956. Today, the newly renovated, multi-purpose venue welcomes family friendly programming, chefs, comedians, charity events and even jazz piano competitions. Truly a bit of something for everyone! Floridatheatre.com

RUNNER UP: St. Augustine Amphitheatre

COOKING CLASSES

Sur La Table

RUNNER UP: Jax Cooking Studio

FESTIVAL

Amelia Island Shrimp Festival

RUNNER UP: Springing the Blues

FUNDRAISING WALK/RUN

The Donna Marathon

Nearly 10,000 runners participated in the 19th annual Donna Marathon Weekend, held this year January 31-February 1. Athletes from all 50 states and 11 countries laced up their shoes for a variety of races, raising nearly $250,000 in support of the Donna Foundation’s mission. The 26.2 with DONNA The National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer is the only marathon in the country dedicated to serving those living with breast cancer, helping some 20,000 families and securing more than $6.5 million in financial relief. And it all started here, the vision of former TV news anchor and now Jax Mayor Donna Deegan. The 20th anniversary event is set for February 5-7, 2027. Better start training now. TheDonnaFoundation.org

RUNNER UP: Dreams Come True 5 K

PLACE TO DANCE

The Barn Palm Valley

RUNNER UP: Cuba Libre

PLACE TO TAKE VISITORS

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

For hosting out-of-town guests or planning a memorable afternoon, the Cum -

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Chris Thomas Project. Drawing inspiration from Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, charismatic vocalist Chris Thomas and his group perform R&B, blue-eyed soul and jazz. Thomas first arrived in the Jacksonville area in 1980 and operated four dance studios before the Great Recession turned that business on its head. He formed the Chris Thomas Band and performed for a decade until vocal cord nodules forced him to take a hiatus. In 2023, he formed his current band, the Chris Thomas Project, which features Thomas on vocals backed up by drums, guitar, sax and keyboard. Thomas has performed at the Florida Theatre, Times-Union Center for the Arts, Miami Cultural Center for the Arts, on I Heart Radio, and you can see his group perform at live music venues around town. TheChrisThomasProject.com

mer delivers an experience that feels elevated and welcoming. Guests can explore a diverse art collection before wandering through historic gardens that hold a history spanning more than 100 years. Each garden offers its own character, from formal pathways to peaceful river views. The excursion doesn’t end there. After strolling the gardens, stop at the Cummer Café to enjoy tasty bites like a cheese board or Flatbread Du Jour on the patio or carried outdoors. The setting is an effortless choice for entertaining visitors with taste and charm. CummerMuseum.org

RUNNER UP: Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

LOCAL MURAL

Riverside Arts Market (by Patrick Maxcy)

RUNNER UP: Welcome to St. Nicholas (by Mary Joan Hinson)

PLACE TO CREATE ART

Paisley Grace Makery

RUNNER UP: MOCA Jacksonville (PAGE 44)

LOCAL MUSICIAN

Chris Thomas Project (ABOVE)

RUNNER UP: Band Be Easy

MUSIC FESTIVAL PorchFest

RUNNER UP: Jacksonville Jazz Festival

PIECE OF PUBLIC ART

Friendship Fountain

RUNNER UP: “Life” Statue at Memorial Park

DANCE COMPANY

Florida Ballet

RUNNER UP: Jax Dance Co.

JAX PRO ATHLETE

Trevor Lawrence

RUNNER UP: Cam Little

LOCAL INFLUENCER

Plants by Wade Lee

A gardener, educator and podcaster,

Wade Lee’s work bridges history, horticulture and community. As the gardener at the historic Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Wade tends to one of Jacksonville’s most treasured landscapes—he enjoys preserving its beauty and sharing its stories with visitors. Through his engaging workshops, he tries to give everyone the confidence to care for plants at home. PlantsbyWadeLee.com

RUNNER UP: Eric V. Dunn

SPORTS TALK HOST

Dan Hicken

RUNNER UP: Mike Dempsey

TV NEWS TEAM News4Jax

RUNNER UP: First Coast News

MORNING RADIO DJ/TEAM

Jeff Prosser/Dan Hicken 1010XL

RUNNER UP: The Big Show 99.1 WQIK

TV METEOROLOGIST

Lewis Turner, First Coast News

RUNNER UP: Richard Nunn, News4Jax

TALK RADIO HOST/SHOW

First Coast Connect 89.9 FM

RUNNER UP: Jacksonville Morning News WOKV

NIGHTLIFE & Entertainment

AFTER-WORK DRINKS

River & Post Rooftop

RUNNER UP: Grape & Grain Exchange

BAR BITES

Royal Palm Wine & Tapas

From farm-to-table, Royal Palm offers an

MOCA Jacksonville. The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA) is the primary institution in Northeast Florida dedicated to contemporary art. As a nonprofit organization and a Cultural Institute of the University of North Florida, MOCA Jacksonville uses the power of art to strengthen communities, spark curiosity and offer fresh perspectives on life. MOCA embraces this role by creating a welcoming space where visitors can connect, learn and stay inspired. Through dynamic exhibitions and art-integrated programs, art becomes a bridge between people, ideas and experiences. The museum continues to energize downtown Jacksonville, creating a vibrant hub where community and contemporary art come together. MOCAJacksonville.unf.edu

elevated culinary experience with a scratch kitchen and a rotating menu. The establishment stores a collection of over 200 craft beers in bottles, 12 rotating draughts and 1,200 bottles of wine all available at the table or for retail. Dishes such as the housemade hummus, warm prosciutto and manchego-stuffed dates ($7), hickory-smoked octopus, five spice seared Ahi tuna and garlic sautéed Mayport shrimp ($18) are made to be shared—but only if you want to. Larger plates such as cast iron seared pork ribeye with herb chimichurri, greens and tomato ($18) are offered, too. RoyalPalmWines.com

RUNNER UP: Strings Sports Brewery

BEER SELECTION

Wicked Barley Brewing Co.

RUNNER UP: Hoptinger

BILLIARDS

Perfect Rack Billiards

RUNNER UP: Legends Billiards

BOWLING ALLEY

Beach Bowl

RUNNER UP: Splitz Orange Park

BUSINESS LUNCH

Midtown Table

This popular Town Center eatery is part

HOURS: 11AM-6PM MONDAY-SATURDAY 12PM-5PM SUNDAY

of the Medure Brothers’ collection of homegrown establishments. The casual interior is nicely complemented by the upscale but approachable seasonal menu featuring items such as soups, salads, Neapolitan pizzas and house-made pastas. The prime rib French dip ($18) comes with provolone and horseradish cream, ideal for dunking in au jus. The Margherita pizza ($14) is a classic and deliciously simple mélange of San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, pecorino and basil.

RUNNER UP: bb’s (BELOW)

CIGAR BAR

Island Girl

RUNNER UP: Dapper D’s Cigars

COMEDY SPOT

Comedy Zone

RUNNER UP: First Coast Comedy

CRAFT BREWERY

Southern Swells

RUNNER UP: Aardwolf

CRAFT DISTILLERY

Manifest Distilling

RUNNER UP: Grey Matter Distillery

ELEGANT DINING SETTING

Matthew’s

Restaurant

Located in the heart of historic San Marco, Matthew’s Restaurant is consistently described as the epitome of fine dining. While their menu has tremendous appeal, offering dishes such as basil-crusted lamb ($46), duck breast ($48) and elite cuts of beef, it’s the decor that unifies and heightens the overall dining experience. Surprisingly smaller than you might expect, exuding refinement, character and style, there’s more than enough room for easy conversation and connection. Should you prefer the intimacy and exclusivity of a private room, there are two spaces to consider, both expressing the same charm and elegance as the main dining room. matthewsrestaurant.com

RUNNER UP: 14 Prime

GAMES/TRIVIA NIGHTS

Culhane’s Irish Pub

No matter which location you prefer (Atlantic Beach, Southside), Culhane’s is the perfect destination to cheer your favorite team on game day, wrack your brain on trivia nights, and sing your heart out on karaoke nights. Of course, you can always just show up with friends, share a few pints, some good Irish whiskey, and savor some of the best food this side of the Emerald Isle. Their

bb’s. A convenient location and casual yet sophisticated interior help make bb’s a winner for business lunches. The one-room establishment is minutes from Downtown and Southbank office towers. In addition to the regular menu of crispy crab cake sandwich, salmon salad, and toasted naan chips with hummus, a rotating list of lunchtime specials is offered. Ribeye burger capped with Havarti cheese ($18), Cajun-grilled shrimp and grits with red pepper jam, and the blackened catch of the day are always good choices. Talk a little business to put your next meal on the expense account. Maybe order a slice of cake from the dessert case to go, too. bbsRestaurant.com

wings (baked or fried), Craic Garlic Chips and Scotch Egg are a great way to start and undeniable crowd pleasers. If you’re looking for even more, don’t miss their traditional Shepherd’s Pie ($18) and Corned Beef N’ Cabbage ($21). CulhanesIrishPub.com

RUNNER

UP: Dart Bar & Games

HAPPY HOUR

Aqua Grill

Established in 1988 and reinvented for 2016, Ponte Vedra Beach’s Aqua Grill offers local and visitors a contemporary restaurant concept located directly on a small lake in the Sawgrass Village shopping center. With a menu that covers much culinary ground—shrimp scampi, Gulf Coast oysters, cornmeal-dusted trout ($32) , grilled filet mignon and more—the restaurant features private banquet facilities, a covered lakefront deck, and a lively bar with all NFL ticket, sports packages and 4K HD TVs. Happy hour drink specials are offered 3-7 PM weekdays, noon-6 PM weekends, making for ideal times to enjoy bar bites such as honey sriracha rock shrimp ($8), sliders on Hawaiian rolls and P.E.I. mussels with garlic, basil in lemon butter sauce ($11). Serving lunch and dinner daily. AquaGrill.net

RUNNER UP: Prati Italia

HOTEL BAR

Coastal Kitchen at the Hilton Mayo

Perhaps it’s the fact that this place is still relatively new. Or it’s the outdoor patio that backs up to a lush Floridian lagoon, inviting you to kick back, take in the fresh air and relax in comfy upholstered rockers. Or maybe it’s the warm, personalized service. No doubt, the selection of creatively conceived cocktails (and mocktails) such as the intriguing Big City Sour ($18), Sunset Swizzle ($19) or Southern Heatwave ($18) adds to the experience. As does the restaurant menu that offers just about everything one

Blue Jay Listening Room.

Performers have called Blue Jay the “unicorn of music venues,” and compared it to iconic songwriter nightclubs— Club Passim in Boston, the Bluebird in Nashville, the Cactus Cafe in Austin—in their nascent years. Patrons say you’ll experience a level of connection, interaction and attentive listening that is difficult to find elsewhere. The intimate listening room is the creation of owner Cara Murphy, who wanted a place where people could be themselves, be present with others and let the cares of the world melt away. Named in honor of her late grandmother, Blue Jay is a carefully curated space where everything about the decor, lighting and vibe feels just right. BlueJayJax.com

could want for breakfast (okay, the bar’s not open), lunch, happy hour or dinner. CoastalKitchenJax.com

RUNNER

UP: Casa

Monica Resort & Spa

IRISH PUB

Culhane’s Irish Pub

Founded by four sisters from Limerick, Ireland in 2005, pubs don’t get more Irish than the city’s two Culhane’s. The recipes for dishes like Guinness Stew and Shepherd’s Pie are family favorites. The sisters and their restaurants have been featured twice on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fieri. Expect standing-room-only crowds this summer whenever World Cup games are broadcast. How about a pint of Smithwick’s red ale?

RUNNER UP: Lynch’s Irish Pub

LATE NIGHT BITES

V Pizza/Sidecar

RUNNER UP: Kickback’s Gastro Pub

LIVE MUSIC

Blue Jay Listening Room (LEFT)

RUNNER UP: Players Locker Room

It’s a Miramar favorite, “where every game feels like front row with food, fans and fun!” So say the proprietors of the Players Locker Room, where almost every night offers some kind of entertainment, from trivia and open mics to music bingo and live music every Friday evening until 11:30 PM. From country fried steak and fish tacos ($15) to jumbo meatballs and mozzarella sticks ($10), place your order and settle in for the evening show.

MARGARITAS

Flying Iguana

There’s nothing like a day on the sand in Neptune Beach, followed by refreshing margaritas and flavorful Latin specialties at Flying Iguana. Whether you like your margaritas on the rocks, frozen or fruit flavored, there’s plenty to choose from. Along with more than 100 tequilas, the stage is set for a deliciously good time. The menu features freshly made guacamole, plenty of tacos including blackened shrimp ($6.50), crispy pork belly ($6.50) and Baja fish ($6), and a variety of rice bowls and inspired entrees. Who could ask for more? Don’t forget about Margarita Mondays— house margaritas are just $6 all day. flyingiguana.com

RUNNER UP: La Nopalera

ROOFTOP BAR

Cowford Chophouse

RUNNER UP: River & Post

SPORTS BAR

Strings Sports Brewery

RUNNER UP: Island Wing Co.

WINE SELECTION

Riverside Liquors

A fixture in the neighborhood for 50 years (though it did move locations a few years back), Riverside Liquors offers a staggering selection of wine, beer and spirits. If it’s made from grapes and comes in a corked bottle, there’s a good chance they have it in stock. If not, the crew can likely find a bottle for you. Rack upon rack of reds, whites, roses, sparkling and more greet patrons upon entering. In the back is a small bar and dining area, much loved for its seasonal tapas menu featuring spinach artichoke and crab dip, cheese and charcuterie, and Thai chili shrimp ($18). A nice perk offered here is the opportunity to purchase a bottle of wine in the shop and then enjoy it with your meal. Cheers to that. RiversideLiquors.biz

RUNNER UP: Restaurant Medure

Restaurant Medure in Ponte Vedra Beach offers an upscale dining experience featuring dishes that reference global flavors. A few of these include Hudson Valley foie gras ($3), Seasonal burrata salad ($16), and rack of lamb ($48). More importantly is the restaurant’s wine list. A hefty presentation featuring wines from all points around the world. If you’re not sure where to start, the sommelier is more than happy to steer you in the right direction. It goes without saying that the availability of undeniably remarkable wines, paired with noteworthy foods expertly prepared, gives way to an exceptional dining experience. restaurantmedure.com

SHOPPING & Browsing

ANTIQUES Avonlea Antiques

RUNNER UP: Southern Crossings Antique Mall

BIKE SHOP Zen Cog

RUNNER UP: Champion Jax Beach

A luxury NAIL SALON

 Strict hygiene protocols

 High-performance vegan and water-based gels

 Refreshing alternative to the fumes and toxins common in traditional salons

 Elevate skincare with our ELEMIS® facial treatments, blending science-driven results with indulgent relaxation

BOOKS

San Marco Books and More

This is a story that began in the early 1970s. Over the years much has changed in San Marco Square and the beloved independent book and gifts shop that is San Marco Books and More. Catering to customers’ desires (like the ability to pre-order upcoming new releases), the store packs a whole lot into its space, including a popular Jacksonville and Florida history sections, a large stock of classic fiction (both hardback and paperback), children’s books, an extensive choice of leather-bound books, and literary gifts for people of all ages. Plus, there is an ongoing schedule of special events such as New Book Tuesdays, Audiobook Walks, Literary Chat and Bookish Happy Hours. SanMarcoBooksandMore.com

RUNNER UP: Chamblin Bookmine

BUTCHER SHOP

Cline’s Custom Meats

RUNNER UP: Pine Grove Market

CAKES

B the Bakery

RUNNER UP: Sweet Theory

CHOCOLATES

Peterbrooke Chocolatier

RUNNER UP: Makenu

CONSIGNMENT SHOP

Fifi’s

RUNNER UP: Hope’s Closet

COOKIES

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Little Red Cottage Cookies

RUNNER UP: Cinotti’s Bakery

CUPCAKES

SmallCakes Cupcakery & Creamery

RUNNER UP: Sweet Theory

DRESSES

Jane Doe

RUNNER UP: Momni

FINE JEWELRY

Underwood Jewelers

With locations in San Marco, Avondale and Ponte Vedra Beach, Underwood Jewelers has provided Northeast Florida with beautiful, high-end and timeless jewelry and

Drift Boutique

watches since 1928. Whether you’re looking for ruby and sapphire flower bouquet clip-on earrings from their Estate offerings, a brand new Rolex Submariner from their watch department or a 5-carat radiant cut diamond engagement ring with halo, the team at Underwood’s will take great care of you. They’re also a ‘Best in Jax’ repeat offender— consistently racking up ‘Best Fine Jewelry’ and other reader-appointed accolades. Oh, yeah, and they’re staffed by the largest AGS credentialed professional staff east of the Mississippi River. UnderwoodJewelers.com

RUNNER UP: Miriam’s Jewelry

FLORIST

Kuhn’s

RUNNER UP: Anything with Plants

JEANS Drift Boutique

Jaffi’s. Yves Saint Laurent’s “fashions fade, style is eternal,” are words Jaffi’s keeps close to heart. Since opening in 2000, this Neptune Beach staple has kept Northeast Florida on-trend with a laid-back boutique experience centered on quality, comfort, and thoughtful curation. The shop carries a wide range of women’s apparel and accessories—shoes, jewelry, undergarments, athleisure, dresses, denim, beachwear, and more—making it a true head-to-toe destination. Jaffi’s mission is to make women feel confident and comfortable in their own skin, and their staff is passionate and knowledgeable about what they do. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe or looking for a complete look for a special event, Jaffi’s offers a relaxed environment and a caliber of hand-selected merchandise. Jaffi’s.com

Dressing the beaches and beyond for almost a decade, Drift Boutique specializes in sustainable, American-made and female-founded brands. That focus helps cut down on the environmental impact of overseas shipping while supporting stronger labor standards and tighter quality control. Their team assembles each seasonal lineup with intention, curating a balance of timeless classics and trendy pieces, and new arrivals show up almost daily to keep things fresh. Visitors can take their time browsing with a glass of bubbles or Drift’s signature complimentary frosé in hand. The guys aren’t left out either, with the men’s section featuring Aviator Nation, Madeworn and Citizens of Humanity. Drift continues to be a destination for shoppers who appreciate thoughtful sourcing and clothing that is made to last. ShopDrift.com

RUNNER UP: Jaffi’s (LEFT)

PURSES

Rosie True

RUNNER UP: Momni

SWIMSUITS

Sunrise Surf Shop

RUNNER UP: Aqua East Surf Shop

VINTAGE JEWELRY

Miriam’s Jewelry

Hand selecting heirloom quality estate jewelry from all over the world, Miriam’s boasts a timeless and rare collection of antique and estate jewelry. Owner Miriam started the shop over 40 years ago, and now runs it with her two daughters Benji and Leah. They are always in the market to buy or sell at their two locations. She likes to remind customers that they are buying a piece of history, not just a piece of jewelry. MiriamsJewelry.com

RUNNER UP: Lübeck Jewelers

WOMEN’S CLOTHING/SHOES

Jaffi’s (PAGE 50)

RUNNER UP: Fig & Willow

RESOURCE FOR HOME COOKS

Sur La Table

RUNNER UP: Summa Salts/The Salt Lady

GIFT SHOP

Cummer Museum Shop

The shop at the museum stands out as a refined retail experience that mirrors the elegance of the museum itself. Dark walls and carefully styled shelves create a gallery-like atmosphere. Shoppers will find artful home goods, accessories and decor that are pieces of functional artwork, yet perfect for everyday use. A dedicated garden section features birdhouses, planters and watering cans, in case you’re feeling inspired to spruce up your garden after walking the museum’s botanical gardens. Open during museum hours, it’s important you don’t skip this stop for meaningful gifts and timeless finds on your way out of the museum. CummerMuseum.org

RUNNER UP: Avondale Gift Boutique

RECORD SHOP

Tiger Records

RUNNER UP: Music Matters Remixed

Analogs, rejoice! Vinyl records are back with a vengeance, and nobody could be happier than music store owners. For Northeast Floridians, Music Matters Remixed in St. Augustine is the go-to place for licorice pizza, wax, platters—whatever you want to call them. A fixture in the oldest city since 1989, Music Matters sells new and used CDs, records, DVDs and music accessories. From domestic releases like pop top sellers to hard-to-find imports from across the

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Jamie Ray, Ray of Blonde Salon. Jamie Ray created Ray of Blonde Salon with a goal of making every guest feel welcome, comfortable and cared for. The space is designed to be both professional and relaxing, with comfortable seating, refreshments, good music and a positive atmosphere that turns long appointments into an enjoyable experience. Specializing in blonding and custom color, Jamie and her team (now numbering two dozen stylists among both locations) take time to ensure each service is thoughtful and personalized. With salons in Jacksonville Beach and Intracoastal West, Ray of Blonde is known for beautiful results and an inviting environment where clients can unwind while leaving with fresh, confidence-boosting color. “Blonde is our name, but that’s not all we do,” says Jamie. “We have stylists who specialize in many different techniques, dimensional color, nourishing treatments, cutting, hair extensions and event styles.” RayofBlondeSalon.com

pond, this unassuming shop in a strip mall is a music-lover’s haven for electronica, classic rock, heavy metal, jazz, new wave and more. Facebook.com/MusicMatters

BOUTIQUE THRIFTING

Vintage Exchange

RUNNER UP: Fifi’s

ART SUPPLIES

Jerry’s Artarama

RUNNER UP: Hobby Lobby

HEALTH & Beauty

AESTHETICIAN

Bodhi Aesthetics

RUNNER UP: Elase Avondale

BATH PRODUCTS

Headplant

RUNNER UP: Earth Salt Stone

DAY SPA

Bartram Spa and Salon

RUNNER UP: The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

HAIR COLORIST

Jamie Ray, Ray of Blonde Salon (ABOVE)

RUNNER-UP: Jenna Wages

Jenna Wages, a stylist at Ray of Blonde, is known for creating dimensional, lived-in color tailored to each client. She values thorough consultations and helps guests plan a realistic maintenance routine, all while keeping the appointment light, friendly and enjoyable.

HAIR EXTENSIONS

Brittany’s Hair (PAGE 54)

RUNNER UP: PRIM Salon

PRIM is a haven of eco-conscious beauty located in Ponte Vedra Beach. With an unwavering commitment to sustainability, the talented team of professionals is dedicated to providing a wide array of services that leave clients feeling fabulous. From hair extensions to color correction and razor cutting to airbrush makeup, PRIM has all your beauty needs covered.

LASHES

Deka Lash

For thick, lush, fluttery lashes, look no further than Deka Lash. They specialize in creating lashes and brows that look flawless and effortless, with easy maintenance thanks to their membership programs. Owner Jennifer Blair created Deka Lash after being discouraged with

how inaccessible lash extensions were to everyday women. She loves how empowered and confident women feel after their first service. Look your best with full lash extension sets, lash extension refills, lash lifts, brow lamination and lash and brow tinting for those who prefer a more defined, no-makeup look. DekaLash.com

RUNNER UP: Lash Jax

LUXURY MANI/PEDI

Paint Nail Bar

At Paint Nail Bar, self-care is reimagined as an experience, not just a service. Designed to feel nothing like a traditional nail salon, it’s known for its clean, low-odor environment, high sanitation standards and non-toxic, vegan-friendly products. Its services range from quick, refreshing manicures to more luxurious treatments with exfoliation and massage. Every detail, from friendly products to thoughtful services, is centered on elevating both beauty and well-being. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick refresh or settling in for a full pampering session, Paint Nail Bar sets a new standard for beauty, wellness and relaxation in Jacksonville Beach. PaintNailBar.com

RUNNER UP: Polish Nail Bar

SALON FOR MEN & WOMEN

Ten

Salon

Best in Jax seven years running, founder Sheila and the team at the two Beaches Ten Salons (Jacksonville and Neptune) does everything from extensions to nourishing treatments and color services. Meanwhile, the men can enjoy cuts, styling and a hot towel finish, as well as a full range



Brittany’s Hair.

Eat your heart out, Rapunzel! For long, luscious, natural-looking locks, Brittany’s Hair has expert and personalized care for hair extensions. Offering elite knowledge with a luxury experience, the professionals at Brittany’s Hair prioritize the health and beauty of their clients’ hair, producing thicker, longer and fuller hair that you’ll love. The expert stylists offer extensions, shaping, coloring, styling and keratin treatments, as well as personalized services for those experiencing hair thinning and loss due to medical conditions, scars and chemotherapy. They truly have everything you need to have your best hair ever. There’s a reason Brittany’s Hair has been a Best in Jax winner for three years running. BrittanysHair.com

of men’s hair, skin and shave products. From vibrant color to head-turning coifs, revitalizing therapies and pampering, their goal is to meet client beauty needs while exceeding expectations with their many beauty and hair care services. Wedding services include updos, styles, and blowouts for the bride, bridal party, and special guests. Perhaps the best part is their stylist match survey pairs customers with their ideal stylist, ensuring you get the best possible experience. TenSalon.com

RUNNER UP: Gwynn Mims Salon

MICROBLADING

Simple Sweet Beauty

RUNNER UP: Debbie Mathson, Hydro Med Spa

PERMANENT MAKEUP

Ocean Brows & Aesthetics

RUNNER UP: Luz Cosmetic Tattooing Get rid of every preconceived notion you have about permanent makeup. Luz Cosmetic Tattooing is a trailblazer in the permanent makeup industry, offering confidence-boosting cosmetic tattooing services for nearly a decade. In addition

to natural enhancements like microblading, freckles, lip blush, lashes, tattoo lightening and micro tattoos, owner Luz Blando specializes in paramedical tattooing, including scar camouflage, stretch mark revision, acne scars, vitiligo and areola correction that can restore or enhance the areola and/or nipple following surgery. She offers personalized, compassionate services at her professional studio, conveniently located on San Jose Boulevard. LuzCosmetictattooing.com

SPRAY TAN

Tan Like A Celebrity

RUNNER UP: Tan Vita

Only recently arrived in Neptune Beach, Tan Vita’s spray tan solutions are made with high-quality natural and organic ingredients, including plant and mineral extracts. Not only does the solution give clients a natural-looking tan tailored to unique skin tone, but it’s also packed with non-toxic, skin-loving ingredients that nourish while they bronze.

WAXING

European Wax Center

RUNNER UP: K&M Waxing Center

EATS & Drinks

AL FRESCO DINING

Midtown Table

If the weather allows, arguably the best tables at Midtown Table are found outside on the covered patio next to the putting green. While enjoying Northeast Florida’s warm evenings, let Chef Geo tempt the tastebuds with wood-fired pizzas, house-made gnocchi, crab cakes and more. Yes, please!

RUNNER UP: TacoLu

How many family-run taco joints need valet parking? They do at TacoLu Baja Mexicana, a near-legendary restaurant that is a true Jax Beach original. A full parking lot usually means a full interior, so ask if a table is open out back. Serving lunch and dinner Tuesday-Sunday.

BBQ BRISKET

Bearded Pig

Although you can find reasonably good BBQ throughout the region, nothing beats the BBQ brisket at the Bearded Pig (San Marco). Dry rubbed, perfectly smoked, served a la carte or on a sandwich, this is the way brisket was meant to be served. Of course, their Burnt Ends ($10) and Bearded poutine ($10) are a wonderful way to kick start your meal. To keep you lubricated, there’s a curated selection of local and regional craft brews along with a full-service bar. Come for lunch, happy hour or dinner, enjoy your Q inside or in the fresh air out on the patio. thebeardedpigbbq.com

RUNNER UP: Valley Smoke

BBQ

PULLED PORK & RIBS

Mojo

With seven destinations around town, Mojo BBQ has been delighting Jacksonville with some of the best Q since 2003. While their menu includes all the smoked meats you’d expect, including brisket, chicken, hot links and turkey, it’s the pulled pork ($18.50) and St Louis spareribs ($22.50) that are attracting accolades. Other dishes of note include their Kansas city burnt ends ($18), Mojo’s famous onion rings ($12.50) served with house made buttermilk ranch dip and an assortment of jumbo BBQ sandwiches that are sure to please. Be sure to check out the bar menu, paying particular attention to their impressive selection of fine whiskeys. mojobbq.com

RUNNER UP: Bono’s

BBQ RIBS Mojo

RUNNER UP: ABBQ

Grumpy’s.

When you’re ready for breakfast, the best place to start your day is Grumpy’s. Described as a full-service American diner, their menu includes a long list of traditional American and Southern dishes that includes eggs, waffles, pancakes, omelets and more. A few of their most popular dishes are corned beef hash, biscuits & gravy ($17), golden french toast ($13) and their #1 favorite: Grumpy’s Madd Breakfast Wrap ($16). With six locations around town, you can enjoy these award-winning breakfasts any day of the week, from early morning until mid-afternoon. Plus, despite the name, nobody goes away Grumpy. Or hungry. GrumpysRestaurantco.com

BEACH BRUNCH

Coop 303

Brunch takes decidedly upscale twists at this Atlantic Beach eatery and lounge. For example, starters include fried green tomatoes with burrata, peach jam and mustard balsamic ($16) and Ahi tuna tartare with seaweed salad, cucumbers and crispy wontons. The crab Benedict ($20) is prepared with lump blue crab meat, fried green tomatoes, soft poached eggs, chive Hollandaise sauce and toasted English muffin. Your sweet tooth will love the Belgian waffle bathed in chocolate sauce, strawberries and whipped cream. Ask for a table on the patio upstairs. How about a bloody Mary? Make that two. It’s the weekend, after all. Serving Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM to 4 PM. Coop303.com

RUNNER UP: Jax Beach Brunch Haus

BREAKFAST

Grumpy’s (ABOVE)

RUNNER UP: Metro Diner

BRUNCH

Jax Beach Brunch Haus

RUNNER UP: The Local

CHEESESTEAK SANDWICHES

Surfwiches

There’s not much in the way of curb appeal or decor at Surfwiches—this place is designed for quick service functionality, not beauty. That being said, the cheesesteak ($17), made with ribeye steak and white American cheese, is the perfect combination of meat, cheese and bread. If you’re in the mood for embellishments,

1928 Cuban Bistro. If you’re in the mood for Cuban fare, 1928 Cuban Bistro celebrates the rich culinary traditions of this Caribbean nation. With family recipes passed down over generations, the authenticity of everything on the menu is unmistakable. Come for a Cuban tostada and cafécito to start your day, enjoy a few croquetas ($4.25) and a Cuban sandwich ($14) midday, or one of their more substantial Platos Fuertes rice plates ($17) with your choice of roasted pork, pollo a la plancha, ropa vieja, vaca frita, and more throughout the day. With eight locations peppered around the First Coast, it’s easy to enjoy life on the island, right here in Jacksonville, one bite at a time. 1928bistro.com

they offer plenty of toppings, including fried onions, grilled mushrooms, sweet peppers, garlic mayo, spicy mustard, long hots, tomatoes and/or lettuce, giving your sandwich that perfect, finishing touch, While the cheesesteak is the eatery’s most popular, the chicken cheesesteak, Buffalo chicken cheesesteak, Italian hoagie, and Cuban sandwich have sizable fan bases as well. Surfwiches.com

RUNNER UP: Eddie & Sons Cheesesteaks

CHICKEN WINGS

V Pizza

RUNNER UP: Hawkers

CHINESE CUISINE

Blue Bamboo

Blue Bamboo bills itself as “the sit-down Chinese food restaurant in Jacksonville that you’ve been searching for.” The readers of Jacksonville Magazine would agree

with that. Chef/owner Dennis Chan grew up in a family of restaurateurs and he continues that local legacy with an eatery loved for its Cantonese comfort food. For starters, we suggest the lump crab meat and cream cheese crab Rangoon wontons ($15) and the steamed garlic and ginger edamame ($11). The roast pork stir fry with bok chow, carrots and broccoli in ginger sauce is a classic. As are the Chinese barbecue spareribs ($30) and the Canton roast duck with orange sauce. Keep and eye out for the Dim Sum Sundays (May 17 and June 7), when specially prepared potstickers, shrimp dumplings and roast pork buns are offered. BlueBambooJacksonville.com

RUNNER UP: Peony Asian Bistro

COFFEE SHOP

Southern Grounds

RUNNER UP: Bold Bean

COMFORT FOOD

Hanger Bay Cantina

RUNNER UP: Metro Diner

CUBAN CUISINE

1928 Cuban Bistro (ABOVE)

RUNNER UP: Havana Jax Cafe

DELI SANDWICHES

Angie’s Subs

RUNNER UP: Pine Grove Market

DONUTS Good Dough

RUNNER UP: The Donut Shoppe

FAMILY RESTAURANT The Loop

RUNNER UP: Athenian Owl

FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT

Congaree & Penn

RUNNER UP: Community Loaves

FISH & CHIPS

Safe Harbor

RUNNER UP: The Fish Camps

FISH SANDWICH

Sizemore’s Coastal Kitchen

RUNNER UP: RP’s

If you’ve lived here long enough, you may remember RP McMurphy’s, the first sports bar in Jacksonville Beach. While it closed a while ago, RP’s Fine Food & Drink is its latest incarnation on Beach Blvd, just

a few blocks from the ocean’s edge. Serving casual beach cuisine, including some of the best seafood around, the blackened fish wrap, seafood po’ boys ($13) and crabcake BLT ($16) may be just what you’re looking for. Make sure to try Billy’s Beach Dip, an enduring favorite, along with their wings and conch fritters. If you’re looking for an adult beverage, their fully stocked bar has everything you’ll need to complete the perfect meal. rpsjaxbeach.com

FLORIDA CUISINE

Grouper Shack (BELOW)

RUNNER UP: Dockside Seafood Restaurant

Grouper Shack. Part of a homegrown string of restaurants specializing in seafood and Southern flavors, the two area Grouper Shacks (Jax Beach and St. Augustine) count The Boathouse, Fish House & Oyster Co. and Outback Crabshack among its sister restaurants. As one would expect, fish and shellfish flavor the menu. Smoked fish dip, crab bites, peel and eat shrimp, conch fritters and oysters are among the house favorites. One can’t go wrong with a blackened grouper basket ($18) or the shrimp po’ boy ($16). Homemade cornbread, fried gator tail, and seafood gumbo add some Southern flair. Don’t forget sides such as white beans and ham, bacon collard greens, coleslaw and bacon broccoli salad. GrouperShack.com

FRENCH CUISINE

Le Petit Paris

RUNNER UP: Rue St. Marc

For spring, the culinary team at this San Marco fave has crafted a seasonal menu that shares the bounty of vegetables coming into season. They are sourcing the best products available, both locally and afar for dishes such as bacon-wrapped rabbit loin ($43) with morel mushrooms, wild ramps, fava beans, tortelletti pasta and rabbit jus. C’est magnifique!

FRENCH FRIES

Mojo BBQ

A meal at Mojo BBQ (7 locations in Northeast Florida) typically includes their slow-smoked brisket, pork or chicken. If you’re not sure where to start, bring some friends and sample The Whole Hawg ($50), a plate featuring a little of everything. Alternatively, specialty sandwiches such as the BBQ Reuben ($16) and The Smitty ($17) are definitely worthwhile. More importantly, be sure to include a side of their hand cut, perfectly salted, French fries with whatever you order. They’re great on their own and even better when dipped into one of their house made sauces. Plus, if you’re thirsty, there’s plenty of craft beer, cocktails and an impressive selection of whiskey on hand to go with. Mojobbq.com

RUNNER UP: Poe’s Tavern

FRESH BREAD

French Pantry

RUNNER UP: Community Loaves

FRIED CHICKEN

Metro Diner

RUNNER UP: Hanger Bay Cafe

FRIED SHRIMP

Dockside

RUNNER UP: Safe Harbor

Whit’s Frozen Custard. We might as well call this category the Whit’s Award, as they are perennial Best in Jax winners. In Jax, when it comes to frozen custard there really is just one choice, right? With seven locations spread around town, from Atlantic Beach to Orange Park, one is never too far from a waffle cone or bowl and deliciously imaginative flavors like the Grass Hopper (chocolate flakes and mint), Sea Turtle (hot fudge, caramel and pecans), and S’mores (marshmallows, graham cracker and chocolate flakes). Also serving classics like banana splits ($8), chocolate shakes and root beer floats ($7.50). We like our “Whitser” with vanilla topped with sea salt caramel, Reese’s Cup chunks, coconut and whipped cream. Large, please. WhitsFrozenCustard.com

FROZEN CUSTARD

Whit’s (ABOVE)

ICE CREAM

Dreamette

RUNNER UP: Mayday

INDIAN CUISINE

Mesa Jax

RUNNER UP: Spice

ITALIAN CUISINE

Mezza Luna

Mezza Luna is one of the most enduring restaurants in Neptune Beach. Whether

you prefer drinks or a casual meal in the lounge, dining al fresco on the patio, or a more formal setting in the dining room, the variety of experiences makes this place special. Add in the glorious Italian cuisine—everything from appetizers such as lamb lollipops ($20) and fresh fried East Coast calamari ($16), a selection of wood-fired pizzas, and satisfying entrées including cioppino ($35), house made pappardelle ($30) and grilled NY strip ($38). If you need to walk it off, or simply enjoy a casual stroll after your meal, the beach is across the street. MezzaLunaJax.com

RUNNER UP: Catullo’s

MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE

Noura’s Cafe

RUNNER UP: Wafaa N Mike’s Cafe

MEXICAN CLASSICS

La Nopalera

RUNNER UP: TacoLu

MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE

Casbah

RUNNER UP: Mandaloun

Mediterranean Cuisine

MUSEUM RESTAURANT

The Cummer Cafe

Visitors to the Cummer Museum of Art are regularly enthralled by the museum’s world class collections, temporary exhibitions and historic gardens. They also enjoy casual meals, refreshing cocktails, and restorative coffees and teas in the Cummer Café. Whether served in the Café itself, at a table on its shaded outdoor patio, or carried out into the gardens, the combination of inspired art, verdant landscape and delectable cuisine is a wonderful experience. Depending on your mood, a few recommendations are the mezze platter ($14), crab cakes ($20), shrimp and grits ($19) and quiche du jour ($14). Standout cocktails include their Spicy Margarita, Seasonal Sangria and spirit-free Lavender Blanc Spritz. CummerMuseum.org/cafe

RUNNER UP: Setlan Coffee Co. at MOCA Jacksonville

PIES

Mixed Filling

RUNNER UP: Pie Heaven Bakery Cafe

PIZZA

Al’s Pizza

Al’s Pizza keeps things reliably excellent with a simple process and straightforward philosophy. Their pies consist of hand-stretched dough, fresh ingredients and Al’s signature

sauce. Some of their most popular pizzas are a little off the beaten flavor path, like the spicy Caribbean chicken. The zucchini fries ($12) and toasted ravioli ($12) are worth a try, and the fried zeppolis—fried pizza dough covered in powdered sugar and raspberry or chocolate sauce—make for an indulgent post-dinner treat. The calzones and flatbreads make for easy, shareable meals. With five locations around Jacksonville and the beaches, Al’s pairs tried-and-true technique with familiar comfort. AlsPizza.com

RUNNER UP: V Pizza

POKE BOWL

Salt Life Food Shack (BELOW)

RUNNER UP: Poke Cafe

POPSICLES

Hyppo Gourmet Popsicle

RUNNER UP: Mayday

RAMEN

Domu

RUNNER UP: Soupa Noodle Bar

RAW BAR

City Grille & Raw Bar

It might have had some pretty big shoes to fill when a Southbank staple like The Wine Cellar closed after 47 years, but City Grill has not disappointed. True to its roots, the menu is fresh, seasonal and consistently delicious, offering a refined mix of seafood, steak, and house specialties backed by an impressive list of global wines. The Raw Bar is a standout, featuring East and West Coast oysters, plus favorites like the Ahi Tuna Tartare ($17), the Hamachi Crudo ($19), and the Peruvian Hamachi Ceviche ($18).

Whether you’re tucked into the intimate Velvet Room, savoring the Tuscan Room’s charm, or relaxing in the serene Garden Room, the atmosphere is welcoming, polished and refined. City Grill looks to offer a true big city dining experience, and it’s already proving quite capable of continuing the legacy of elevated dining on Prudential Drive. CityGrilleRawBar.com

RUNNER UP: Slider’s

RESTAURANT VIEW

Salt at the Ritz-Carlton

RUNNER UP: Marker 32

SALADS

bb’s

The menu here is flush with outstanding choices—bistro steak sandwich, white truffle pizza, crispy calamari and stuffed mozzarella bruschetta, among many others. However, for many diners the menu starts and stops with the delish salads, particularly for lunch. The pan Asian chop chop salad with grilled chicken, toasted peanuts, rice noodles, fried wonton strips, sweet soy and wasabi drizzles ($21) has been a menu staple for more than two decades. Mixed spring greens, Romaine, candied walnuts, prosciutto, Medjool dates, and goat cheese-stuffed sourdough croutons make the warm goat cheese salad another afternoon fave. Salmon salad, steak salad, Mediterranean chicken, classic Caesar… one of each, please. bbsRestaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Midtown Table

SEAFOOD

Oceana

Oceana knows to lean into what its patrons love most: exceptionally fresh oysters and a relaxed, welcoming

atmosphere. The bar’s polished look and strong cocktail and wine program set the tone, while the menu mixes global flavors with comfort- driven options meant for sharing. Their creative small plates like kimchi brussels sprouts ($16), caviar and tots ($85), and wagyu sliders ($21) are particularly popular, and there are plenty of solid seafood, steak, and vegetarian options too. One of the most- requested dishes remains the seafood pasta ($48), a rich mix of shrimp, scallops, and crab in lobster cream. The special Asian Noodle Nights menu offered Tuesday through Thursday makes for a great dine-in or take-out experience, and Saturday brunch is not to miss either, with Oceana serving up house-made pastry baskets ($16) and lemon-ricotta pancakes ($21). OceanaRestaurant.com

RUNNER UP: The Fish Co.

Oysters and crab claws chilling on ice, shrimp and fish filets searing on the grills, cold beer being poured from the taps... what else does one need for a great seafood joint. The Fish Company in Atlantic Beach has all this and much more, all tucked inside and bright and casual space decked in blonde woods and neon lights. Crab cakes ($14), grilled mahi with Key lime butter, mussels poached in white wine and butter ($9), and sesame tuna— the choices go on and on.

SOUTHERN COOKING

Soul Food Bistro

RUNNER UP: Sweet Mama’s

STEAKHOUSE

14 Prime

RUNNER UP: Cowford Chophouse

Salt Life Food Shack.

Salt Life makes the Best in Jax list again, still delivering that laid-back coastal energy just three blocks from the beach. The open-air vibe and island-leaning menu make it a natural stop after a long day in the sun, especially when a refreshing poke bowl hits the spot. Regulars swear by Caliche’s poke bowl ($22) and the spicy poke bowl ($23), two dishes that balance bright flavors with the kind of easygoing comfort Salt Life is known for. The menu stretches well beyond seafood, but the poke bowls are definitely worth a try. Casual, consistent, and found in Jax Beach, Amelia and St. Augustine, Salt Life is the go-to spot for post-beach coastal fare. SaltLifeFoodShack.com

Saturday & 10am-2pmSunday

O-Ku. The first thing one notices about this Jax Beach establishment is that it’s simply stunning. The interior of the first level is modern and uber stylish. Up above is the rooftop patio, a wonderful spot for cocktails and beautifully prepared plates. O-Ku’s menu showcases a variety of Japanese delights, ranging from sushi, sashimi, nigiri, and maki rolls to cooked entrees. Complementing these offerings are small plates like dumplings and robata skewers, alongside vegetarian and gluten-free options. Spicy tuna, seared Angus beef, steamed lobster, soft-shell crab—the sushi choices are many. Of course, the “Duuval” with salmon, cucumber, avocado, unagi, and eel sauce ($19), is a local favorite. Serving dinner nightly and lunch on the weekends. O-KuSushi.com

SUSHI

O-Ku (ABOVE)

RUNNER UP: Norikase

TACOS

TacoLu

WATERFRONT RESTAURANT Cap’s on the Water

RUNNER UP: Palm Valley Outdoors Bar & Grill

NEW RESTAURANT (JACKSONVILLE) Saleya

Occupying the rustic building that was home to the Homestead Restaurant for decades, TacoLu is one of those wonderfully eclectic establishments that seem to predominate on the beaches side of the ICW. It even has its own paranormal lore, with patrons reporting seeing the ghost of Homestead founder Alpha Paynter over the years. Whether TacoLu is haunted is unconfirmed, but what can be verified is that their tacos are outrageously popular. The bangin’ shrimp ($5) and Deb’s verde ($4) are crowd favorites. The restaurant also features an extensive menu with hard-to-find tequilas and an enchanting patio adorned with string lights and mural art.

RUNNER UP: Taqueria Cinco

THAI CUISINE

Green Papaya

RUNNER UP: Lemongrass

VEGAN DISHES

The Walrus

RUNNER UP: Seitanic Jax

“Saleya Riviera Café was conceived on an excursion along the Cote d’ Azur that culminated in the port city of Nice, France,” say restaurateurs Scott and Gabrielle Alters. “After a trip to the Cours Saleya farmer’s market, while drinking Champagne and enjoying oysters at a café on the Place Massena, we began planning our next restaurant venture for the San Marco neighborhood. We were inspired by the incredibly fresh ingredients, simplicity of the regional cuisine, the convivial approach to dining, and several ice cold Negroni cocktails.” Long story short, San Marco Square lands another top dining spot.

RUNNER UP: Electric Pizza

NEW RESTAURANT (ST. AUGUSTINE) Saint

RUNNER UP: Little Miss Ha u

MODERN

classics

Among the things that have emerged in many 2027 bridal gown collections are designs that deeply align with the contemporary bride.

founded in 2018, Katherine Tash is a Los Angeles–based bridal label known for its refined, modern take on timeless wedding gowns. The 2027 Chrysalis Collection marks a moment of expansion for the designer. It is a collection shaped by trust, both in the designer’s own perspective and in the craftsmanship of the atelier behind it. The result is work that feels confident without force, elevated without excess, and quietly powerful in its expression.

ELIN

COSIMA NOEMI

There is a noticeable confidence in shape, with designs like Demi that feel more intentional in their construction and presence. The balance between softness and structure remains central, but it is refined, distilled into forms that feel both fluid and controlled.

There is a quiet richness to the materials in gowns such as the satin silk crepe lined with charmeuse Elin, allowing the garments to hold their own without excess embellishment.

The 2027 Chrysalis Collection builds on the familiar codes of the house, femininity, romance and structure, while introducing a more elevated, directional perspective—perfectly captured in the Cosima, made with matte silk crepe and featherweight tulle, lined with stretch charmeuse.

The Noemi is crafted with French lace lined with tulle. The gown and the collection are defined by fluid draping, elegant silhouettes, and understated detailing, staying true to the brand’s aesthetic that balances contemporary sophistication with enduring romance.

there is a certain quiet confidence to Alyssa Kristin’s Spring 2027 collection. Rather than chasing novelty, the designer returns to the foundations of bridal design, revisiting the silhouettes and details that have shaped the category for decades. The result is a collection that feels considered and deliberate, where familiar forms are distilled through a modern, minimalist sensibility.

Aneta, rendered in structured jacquard with a soft sheen, uses directional pleating to contour the figure before opening into a dramatic fit and flare silhouette.

Similarly polished is Emma, cut in smooth Spanish Mikado with a bateau neckline that balances a strikingly low open back. The streamlined mermaid silhouette contours the body before gently flaring, offering a poised and modern profile.

Simone echoes this softness with gentle draping through the bodice, while Ophelia expands the silhouette into graceful A-line skirts that glide into sweeping trains. Each feels refined rather than ornate, emphasizing form, proportion, and fabric.

ANGELUS

inspired by the layered landscapes of Danxia—where cliffs ripple in tones of crimson, clay, and sand—design house Ouma’s 2027 Alluvia collection explores how time, pressure, and patience shape form. The designer approached fabric in the same way. Organza folds like sediment, pleats build like layers, and draping moves as if guided by water. The gowns have structure without feeling rigid, and volume without excess.

Seraphine balances delicacy with depth. A straight neckline lace bodice is softly draped with pleated tulle, creating asymmetry that feels both organic and intentional. Beneath, layers of pleated and soft tulle build volume without weight.

Ember is designed in layers of transformation. The top dress, cut in organza, is shaped through organic folds and tucks, falling into a high-low hem that can be worn as a standalone mini. Beneath, a voluminous skirt of pleated and soft tulle creates a fuller silhouette—removable, revealing a lighter form beneath.

Aurelia is an exploration of structure softened by light. A straight neckline is framed by delicately ruched straps, leading into a sculpted basque waist that defines and elongates the form. In pleated satin, side tucks shape the silhouette with quiet precision.

The Angelus set moves with a sense of quiet fluidity. A textured chiffon corset is softly draped, extending into a fluid train that can be wrapped as a scarf—an intimate gesture of movement and styling. u

Rachel & Alex

MARCH

14,

2026 | CONGAREE & PENN

“Alex and I met on August 5, 2023, at a pool party neither of us planned to attend. Both of our friends made us go, and it ended up being the start of everything,” recalls Rachel. “Alex was convinced he had seen me out before and decided this was his chance. He asked me to a Jason Aldean concert for our first date. I didn’t know a single song, but I had the best time with him.”

The following May, the couple took their first trip to Italy together and loved it enough to go back the next year. Alex proposed in August of 2025 while they were in Ischia, under the moonlight by the water in the pair’s favorite place, Sant’Angelo. He got down on one knee and pulled the ring out of a Zyn can—the one place he knew Rachel would never find it. After he proposed and Rachel accepted, they briefly talked about eloping right there in Italy at a small white chapel, but soon decided they wanted friends and family to be part of the big day.

“We knew we’d never hear the end of it if they missed it,” recalls Rachel. “By the end of the trip, we had our whole wedding planned

for that spring. It all came together easily.” They were married on a Saturday in March, at sunset at Congaree & Penn farm with 30 of their closest family and friends. The ceremony was held under a live oak tree and Alex’s best friend, Ashton, officiated.

“The way Alex looked at me when I walked down the aisle was one of my favorite moments, and so were our vows. We’re not very sentimental, so saying them out loud in front of everyone was intimidating. But once we looked at each other, the nerves went away. We both included the same line from the movie Wedding Crashers, ‘True love is your soul’s recognition of its counterpart in another.’ We really did find our counterpart in each other, and we balance each other. There were definitely a few tears, and I’m not sure who cried more during the ceremony—Alex or Ashton.

According to Rachel, one of the best parts of the night was sitting at one long table for a family-style dinner, looking down and just feeling surrounded by love. “We ended the night at Sherwood’s, a dive bar in San Marco, and honestly didn’t want it to end.” u

VENUE: Congaree and Penn | PHOTOGRAPHY: She Exposure | MAKEUP: Lia Croke | HAIR: Blush and Mane | FLORALS: Anthology | DRESS: Reformation CATERING AND CONFECTIONS: Congaree and Penn | BRIDAL ALTERATIONS: Stori Weddings | MUSIC: Taylor Roberts | INVITATIONS: Write Touch

Camille & Chase

MARCH 14, 2026 | JACKSONVILLE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

The spring wedding of Chase Ewing and Camille Agudelo at the Jacksonville Golf & Country Club was set against a backdrop of vibrant greenery and blooming seasonal flowers, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere for the occasion.

The ceremony took place on the Garden Terrace, beautifully incorporating Filipino traditions. The lighting of the unity candle symbolized the joining of two families and two lives into one. The Arras coins were presented as a promise of prosperity and shared responsibility, while the placement of the veil and cord (yugal) represented unity, protection, and the everlasting bond between the couple. Each ritual was thoughtfully woven into the ceremony, making it both heartfelt and deeply symbolic.

Vendors

Following the ceremony, guests gathered for the reception inside Mulligan’s Pub. They were welcomed with butler-passed hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. A standout feature of the cocktail hour was the beautifully displayed tuna station, which served as both a visual centerpiece and a culinary highlight.

After the cocktail hour, guests sat down for a mulit-course dinner. The celebration continued with dancing, laughter, and heartfelt moments with loved ones. The night concluded on a sweet note with a selection of desserts, ending with the couple sharing a private dance, and sparkler exit with a getaway golf cart. Very fitting for the reception site’s golf club location. u

WEDDING VENUE: Jacksonville Golf & Country Club | RECEPTION SITE: Mulligan’s Pub, Jacksonville Golf & Country Club | PHOTOGRAPHY: The Narrative Weddings, Jarrod and Taylor Rigby | FLOWERS: Manic Botanicc, Cassidy Ramos | CAKE: Publix  | MAKE UP ARTIST: Lia Croke | HAIR STYLIST: Blush and Mane. SaraJane Maples | CATERING: Jacksonville Golf & Country Club  | DJ: Mark Aria Entertainment, Andres Martinez | WEDDING DRESS: Love, A Bridal Boutique  | TUXEDO: Jos A. Bank | VEIL: Devona Fisher, owner of Groovy Club | ORDAIN: Doug Speed III

Bride

2026 READERS' POLL HONOREES

the Readers of Jacksonville Magazine are picking favorites and naming names From party balloons to bartending services, from cupcakes to hair extensions, and from historic reception venues to wedding photography, we present the very best in 60 categories of bride and groom essentials. No need to thank us. We’re happy to do it. After all, for your big day, don’t you want the best? Well, here they are.

THE RESULTS FOR 2026 ARE IN!

AND THE WINNERS ARE:

ACOUSTIC MUSICIAN

Wehner Weddings

With over three decades of experience performing at weddings and events, Kyle Wehner knows weddings. With a roster of 60 professional musicians, Wehner Weddings offers solo violin, duos of violin and cello, violin and guitar, and violin and keys and string trios and quartets. From elopements on a sailboat to luxurious black-tie celebrations, from classical to contemporary hits, Wehner Weddings has your perfect ambiance covered. Their wedding trios and quartets have performed for the likes of Oprah—yes, that Oprah—and President Barack Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry and were featured on four seasons of Disney’s Fairytale Weddings television series.

Runner Up: Who Rescued Who

AESTHETICIAN

Halley Wilkerson, Coastal Cosmetic Center

Get your wedding glow on with skincare that’s healthcare at Coastal Cosmetic Center. Licensed Medical Aesthetician Halley Wilkerson comes with the education she earned her Master’s Degree in Cosmetic Science and has been transforming self-care into a comprehensive health journey ever since. Clients appreciate her gentle touch, soothing presence and expert knowledge. Halley specializes in radio frequency micro-needling, HydraFacial, Evolve Body and CoolSculpting. She also creates professional skincare routines using medical-grade products that continue working long after your procedure. Go ahead, show your skin some love!

Runner Up: Modern Aesthetic Centers

ALTERATIONS Oceanside Cleaners

Runner Up: Momni

ANNIVERSARY JEWELRY Underwood Jewelers

Whether you’re just about to propose or are celebrating 50 years of wedded bliss, our readers are looking to Underwood Jewelers for the perfect anniversary jewelry and engagement rings. A sixth-generation, family-run business with locations in San Marco, Avondale and Ponte Vedra Beach, Underwood’s is synonymous with quality, care and top-notch customer service. Choose from a two-carat diamond eternity band, oval peridot drop earrings or have their team of expert jewelers craft a custom piece showing your partner’s personality. “We had a custom ring designed at Underwoods, and the experience was fantastic from start to finish,” said Alexandra Rudnick on Google Reviews. “The final piece turned out even more beautiful than we imagined.”

Runner Up: Beard’s Diamonds

BALLOONS

Zig + Zag Balloon Company

Whether you’re looking for a fishing-themed installation for your son’s birthday party or a more subdued gold, silver and black champagneshaped celebration for your upcoming nuptials, Zig + Zag Balloon Company can add a bit of latex and mylar magic to any occasion. Based in Atlantic Beach, this bespoke balloon design company is the 904’s favorite purveyor of

colorful, air-filled orbs. “Zig + Zag created an awesome celebratory balloon bouquet for my sweet niece,” wrote Bonnie Murdock Currie on Facebook Reviews. “She was over the moon! It exceeded my expectations and, as always, Erin was so sweet and attentive.”

Runner Up: Hennessey Events BAND

Bold City Classics

A legend of Jax’s professional party scene, Bold City prides itself on delivering top-tier entertainment that fits any vibe and any event. From the grooves of a jazz band to the high-energy pulse of a dance floor-filling party band, they’ve got you covered. Knowing that every event has its own style, owner Sarah Lee and team take the time to truly understand your vision, working hands-on with you to build a custom entertainment experience that fits the mood, matches the moment, and goes beyond your expectations. “Moon River,” Dancing Queen,” “Pink Pony Club”… name the tune and they can probably play it.

Runner Up: Who Rescued Who

BANQUET HALL VENUE Garden Club of Jacksonville

As one of the largest private event venues in Northeast Florida, the Garden Club provides versatile spaces to accommodate gatherings of

all sizes. The Grand Ballroom (5,500 square feet) seats up to 500 guests theater-style or 350 for dining. There’s even and elevated stage ideal for bands. The elegant Clubroom offers an intimate atmosphere with seating for up to 80 theaterstyle or 50 for dining. The historic riverfront location sits within steps of city boat slips, hotels, restaurants and shops. The garden, fountain, stone patio, broad front porch and elegant floorto-ceiling windows provide countless options for photos to cherish for years.

Runner-Up: Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa

From elegant ballrooms and banquet halls to tranquil outdoor spaces showcasing the natural beauty of Northeast Florida, Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa is a top pick for Banquet Hall

HAIR APPARENT

FIVE TIPS FOR HAIRDO HAPPINESS

No bride wants to have her big day be a bad hair day. So, planning ahead is crucial to creating the perfect hairstyle to complement your overall look. Following are just a few tips to help you achieve the beautiful results you desire.

1

Consider your height and silhouette when choosing your hairstyle. Certain updos can make you look taller. Also, some silhouettes look better with high updos, while some face shapes work better with lower styles. For example, long, thin faces usually look more so with a straight style. And hair texture is always an important consideration. If your hair has trouble holding curl, don’t force it into waves that may fall flat.

2

Do you research and search through wedding and style sites and magazines to get a feel for your personal preferences. Bring some photos when you visit your stylist, so that he or she can envision the hairstyle and color you’re going for. Consulting more than one stylist is often recommended.

3

Wedding photos will live on for many years, so asking your stylist to take pictures of your practice hairstyle from many angles can give you a preview of how your wedding day hair will be captured on the actual day.

4

Being comfortable on your wedding is most important, and this is especially true when considering a hairstyle. After a practice run, keep your hair styled throughout the day to see if it has staying power. Does it fall out after a few hours? Does it give you a headache? These are things that only time will tell, and you will want to find out the answers before your wedding day.

5

Make sure your hairstyle complements your veil, gown and your overall look. Dresses with halter necklines, plunging backs and ballgown silhouettes typically call for updos. More laidback affairs like beach weddings may favor long, loose waves. Your hair should be incorporated into your entire look. u

Venue in the 904. Whether you love the proximity of THE PLAYERS Stadium Course or prefer to spend the day at their full-service spa, planning a weekend of wedding events has never been easier.

BARTENDING SERVICES

Catered Cocktail

Runner Up: The Perfect Pour

BRIDAL HAIR EXTENSIONS PRIM Salon

Hair extension care tip number 1: Use sulfatefree shampoo and lukewarm water. Wash your extensions gently, focusing on the roots and avoiding excessive rubbing. At PRIM, their services extend beyond one’s time in the salon chair. The team of stylists regularly offer advice to keep one’s locks looking fabulous well after walking out of the Sawgrass Village salon. So, it’s not surprising its the official salon of the Roar of Jaguars cheerleading squad. Go, Jags! Now back to your extensions. Tip number 2: Regularly apply a rich conditioner to keep the hair moisturized, concentrating on the mid-lengths to ends, and rinse thoroughly.

Runner Up: Abby Chapman.

For bridal hair that’s thicker, longer, perfectly blended and an absolute show-stopper, look no further than Abby Chapman. Abby is a pro when it comes to beautiful wedding hair, from stunning updos to effortless, loose curls. She can augment your natural hair with extensions that blend naturally, giving your hair more of what you want—volume, length, or both. In addition to bridal hair, Abby offers cuts, color, blowouts, styling and more. Abby is based on Normandy Boulevard in Jacksonville, but has created bridal styles that have graced the most popular wedding venues throughout Northeast Florida.

BRIDAL UPDOS

PRIM Bridal, PRIM Salon

Partnered with Ponte Vedra Beach standout PRIM Salon, the experts at PRIM Bridal know what it means to be on call at all hours, ready and waiting to assist clients with everything from airbrush makeup application to false band lashes to bridal hairstyling. Among its many upscale services are premium clip-in hair extensions, perfect for brides and bridesmaids who desire gorgeous, natural-looking volume just for the special occasion. An in-studio bridal trial run is always a good idea.

Runner Up: Studio Bride

BRIDAL MAKEUP ARTIST Lia Croke

Runner Up: Kimtasha Armstrong

BRIDESMAID GOWNS Stori

Runner Up: One Bridal

BUDGET VENUE

Crosswater Hall Nocatee

Runner Up: Golden Creek Ranch

CAKES

Classic Cakes

Runner Up: Creme de la Cocoa

CALLIGRAPHY SERVICES

Calligraphy by Cami

Runner Up: Pam Meadows

CATERING (FEWER THAN 100 GUESTS)

Chefs Garden

Runner Up: Biscottis

The catering team at Biscottis, an Avondale landmark for 30 years, specializes in curating a diverse range of events including private parties, craft services, luncheons, corporate gatherings, open houses, elegant plated dinners, wedding receptions, bar mitzvahs, and festive holiday celebrations. Choose from a menu featuring spinach and artichoke fondue, chilled lump crab salad, grilled brie, charcuterie plates, Thai chicken spring rolls, grilled beef skewers, and more. Oh, and don’t forget the whole cakes one can order.

CATERING (MORE THAN 100 GUESTS)

Chef’s Garden

Runner Up: Anthony’s

CHURCH VENUE

San Marco Preservation Hall

Runner Up: Immaculate

Conception Cathedral

The River Club

Runner Up: Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

The Cummer offers one of Northeast Florida’s most enchanting event settings, where over 120 years of thoughtful garden design meets sweeping waterfront views of downtown Jacksonville’s modern skyline and city lights. Its historic grounds—featuring the nationally significant Olmsted, English and Italian Gardens—blend reflecting pools, fountains, arbors and rare plantings beneath a canopy of mature live oaks. Event hosts can pair these outdoor spaces with elegant indoor options such as the Terry Gallery, which accommodates up to 200 seated guests and 220 for a cocktail reception. The gardens themselves offer ceremony capacities ranging from 100 guests on the Upper Tier to 200 on the Lower Tier, creating flexible options for gatherings of many sizes.

Between the sunset’s reflection on the river and the sculptures integrated throughout the landscape, art, history and nature come seamlessly together.

COUNTRY CLUB VENUE

Jacksonville Golf & Country Club

Jacksonville Golf and Country Club’s special event staff is ready and waiting to cater to their clients’ every request. The elegantly appointed clubhouse is ideal for gatherings up to 200 people. For a special touch, expand your event to the wraparound veranda, outdoor lawn or garden terrace overlooking the golf course. The catering team can prepare everything from a grilled flank steak carving station and a poke bowl bar to grilled New Zealand rack of lamb and herb-crusted pork loin. Would you care for a make your own pasta station? No problem. But save room for some Key lime pie.

Runner Up: TPC Sawgrass

CUPCAKES Kristen’s Cupcake Cafe

Runner Up: Luli’s Cupcakes

Cos Celebrations

Runner Up: Vic Micolucci

ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER Jay Grubb Photography

Runner Up: Simply Grace Photography

FIT & FABULOUS TIPS FOR GETTING INTO SHAPE BEFORE YOUR WEDDING

vow to Look Your Best.

Your wedding day is arguably among the most important days in your life, and with the eyes of family and friends on you for much of it, it’s essential that you look and feel great. Weddings tend to involve long days and nights. Why not impress your guests by creating a plan to get in shape and be healthier, and then stick to it?

Be Realistic.

Being overly ambitious when in comes to losing weight is never a good idea. Set a healthy and attainable goal. Focus on losing one, maybe two, pounds per week through diet and exercise.

Reduce Stress.

Relax, breathe and stretch. Now, there’s no need to become a human pretzel, but ten to 20 minutes of gentle stretching every day will help you feel more relaxed and less stressed. Sign up for a yoga class to learn some more advanced limb-limbering moves. Group gathering such as Saturday

morning yoga sessions at the Riverside Arts Market are pretty common these days, and usually come with minimal cost, if not completely free.

Fight the Fads.

Get-thin-quick routines can be hazardous to one’s health, especially when many of them ask participants to cut out some foods that may be essential to a healthy diet. Using GLP medications is all the rage right now, and there is no denying that for many they do work exceptionally well. However, just because you may shed pounds, it doesn’t mean you are enjoying the added benefits of being healthier due to a better diet and exercise.

Pick Up the Pace.

An extra 20 minutes of walking every day can go a long way to help you burn additional calories. Spend some extra time walking the dog or start taking the stairs instead of riding the elevator. If you plan to have your beloved pup in the ceremony, a few extra steps wouldn’t hurt him, either.

Not-So-Heavy Lifting.

Weight lifting is an easy exercise that will have you looking trim and toned come wedding day. If you purchase your own set of dumbbells, you can practice bicep curls, tricep extensions and lateral raises from the comfort of your own home.

Eat For Energy.

Consuming healthier food five times a day (three meals and two snacks) will keep you going strong all day long. The most important meal of the day is breakfast—yes, your mom was right. It’s often the easiest to skip, but grabbing some morning eats will help kick your metabolism in gear.

Phone a Friend.

Trying to stick to an exercise regime alone can be especially difficult. So, surround yourself with people who support your goals and invite friends to along for the journey. After all, if they are participating in the big day, no doubt they will want to look their best, too. u

ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Faith Jewelers

Runner Up: Underwood Jewelers

FACIAL

Skin by Leah

Runner Up: Coastal Cosmetic Center

Looking for a brighter, glowier complexion? Look no further than Coastal Cosmetic Center’s HydraFacial MD treatments. It’s no secret that UV ray exposure can wreak havoc on the skin, no matter your age. Coastal Cosmetic Center’s expert aestheticians use this innovative, multi-step facial treatment that combines hydration, exfoliation and skin rejuvenation to improve the appearance and health of your skin. They customize the treatment to address your individual needs, combining microdermabrasion and serum infusion. Their custom facials can target fine lines and wrinkles, acne and congestion or help with brightening, pre-event glow and lips and eyes. And as a medical facility, Coastal Cosmetic Center can use medical-grade devices and ingredients to improve the texture and quality of your skin.

FLORIST

Kuhn’s Flowers

Runner Up: Floral Anthology

GARDEN/PARK VENUE

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

Runner Up: Epping Forest Yacht Club

HISTORIC

VENUE

Lightner Museum

Once a Gilded Age hotel, commissioned by Henry Flagler, the Lightner Museum in downtown St. Augustine now serves as a uniquely opulent events venue. Completed in 1888 and originally called Hotel Alcazar, this magnificent Spanish Renaissance Revival building was designed by the prominent architecture firm of Carrère and Hastings. Today, it hosts everything from cozy nuptials for a group of 40 to lavish affairs for up to 225 guests. Choose from the Historic Pool, Mezzanine, Outdoor Terrace & Gardens, Grand Lobby or a combination of the spaces for a celebration you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Runner Up: Clay Theatre

HOTEL VENUE

Casa Marina

Runner Up: Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

INDUSTRIAL VENUE

The Glass Factory

Runner Up: Brick & Beam

Nestled in historic Springfield and occupying some 2,300 square feet on North Main Street –

just on the outskirts of downtown Jacksonville –is Brick and Beam. Named one of the 904’s favorite ‘Industrial Venue,’ Brick and Beam has become one of the city’s most popular wedding venues. The space can comfortably accommodate up to 120 guests for a seated gathering and 150 for a standing event. From exposed brick walls, old-fashioned streetlights and an outdoor space boasting a patio, pergola and fire pit, Brick and Beam will make all of your wedding dreams come true!

INVITATIONS AND STATIONARY

The Write Touch

Runner Up: Cami Hall Design Studio

Pla ic Surgery Experts

LARGE PARTY HAIRSTYLIST PRIM Salon

For large party hair styling, efficiency and preparation are key. First thing, you need to hire multiple stylists for groups over 6 to 8. Jax Magazine readers suggest the stylists at PRIM, a multiple Best winner in 2026. Also, be sure to create a strict schedule, assigning early slots to punctual members. Asking for dry, clean hair upon arrival is a good idea, too. Schedule the bride or guest of honor last, and allow 20 minutes for touch-ups, photos, and prep. Do all that, and then enjoy your big day knowing everyone looks their best.

Runner Up: Blush & Mane

LARGE PARTY MAKEUP ARTIST Lia Croke

Runner Up: Carrie Wilson Makeup

LARGE VENUE

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa

Located in Ponte Vedra Beach, the Sawgrass Marriott boasts 28 event rooms, 90,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space and room for up to 1,600 of your closest family and friends in their signature Champions Ballroom. What’s even better is that your guests don’t have to step off-property for spa services, dining or even golf with the award-winning THE PLAYERS Stadium Course adjacent. Sawgrass Marriott also offers a

short shuttle ride to their oceanfront Cabana Beach Club with direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, so you can perfect the perfect wedding-day tan.

Runner Up: The Glass Factory

LIMO SERVICE

Dana’s Limousine

Runner Up: Jax Party Bus

LOFT/MODERN SPACE VENUE

The Cady Club

Runner Up: The Lark

MANI/PEDI

Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

Runner Up: Bartram Spa and Salon

MANSION VENUE

Epping Forest Yacht Club

Runner Up: La Venture Grove

MUSICAL TRIO/QUARTET

Adagio Weddings

Runner Up: Wehner Weddings

OUTDOOR VENUE

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

Runner Up: La Venture Grove

PARTY BUS Jax Party Bus

PARTY PLANNER In Good Company

“Once upon a time, there were two little girls in Jacksonville—Paige and Courtney—who became fast friends. From birthday parties and sleepovers to sorority life in college, they have basically done everything side by side.” So begins the story of In Good Company, a boutique event planning, design and floral studio specializing

WEDDING DAY PLANNER

BE PREPARED FOR THE DAY YOU TIE THE KNOT

The day of your wedding has finally arrived and the last thing you want to deal with is an unexpected problem. To avoid any such worry or delay, be sure to make a plan ahead of time. Give yourself plenty of time to complete the day’s tasks and sketch out a schedule of how you’d like the afternoon and evening to unfold. Most importantly, relax and enjoy those special moments. To that end, here is a sample wedding day timeline for a 2 PM ceremony.

7 AM - Time to wake up and enjoy a relaxing shower or bath.

8 AM - Eat a light breakfast. It’s not a good idea to skip a meal on your wedding day. Feeling hungry or faint while at the alter is not what you want.

9 AM - Photographers should be on hand to capture candid moments with you and your bridesmaids getting ready for the big day.

9 - 10:30 AM - Time for hair and makeup. Remember your veil and other hair accessories, and have the makeup artist apply your makeup in lighting that mimics the ceremony setting. Touch-ups can be applied after the ceremony to fit the reception’s lighting and atmosphere.

11 AM - Flowers, bouquets and boutonnieres and corsages should be delivered by the florist. If not, have someone track them down.

NOON - Have the photographer and videographer capture some pre-wedding glamour photos. Have fun, laugh and enjoy the process with gathered family and friends.

1 PM - Your transportation to the ceremony should arrive to take you to the wedding site, if located elsewhere.

2 PM - The time has arrived. Let the music begin…

3 PM - Congratulations. You are now a married couple. Organize for post-ceremony formal pictures with a list of shots you want the photographer to capture. Make sure you have told all family members and others you’d like in the photos to stick around after the ceremony.

4 PM - Arrive at the reception site. It’s always nice to be greeted by a shower of applause and music. This is the ideal time for the various family dances, as well as the new couple’s first twirl round the dance floor.

5 PM - Dinner is served, followed by toasts from those who have been asked to participate. Asking the assembled guests for additional toasts can be fun, too. Though, one never knows what may be said, so use some caution here.

6:30 PM - Cut the cake. Have the caterer pass slices to guests who would like one.

7 PM - It’s time for dancing, laughing and having fun with family and guests. This is your day, and it’s nearly over, so be sure to soak in all you can.

11 PM - If you make it this long, now is the time to leave. Let the honeymoon begin! u

in weddings, social celebrations and branded events. They specialize in luxury weddings with bold design moments, social events that celebrate life’s milestones, and other events that inspire and entertain. Every aspect of the wedding, from the seating arrangements to the timing of the ceremony, will be handled with precision and care.

Runner Up: Red Velvet Collective

PHOTO BOOTH

Bokeh & Birch

Runner

Up:

904 Photo Co.

On your big day, you’ll want your moments captured in a way that feels real, timeless and true to you. 904 Photo Co. owners Bre and Larrell Cherry specialize in luxury photo booth experiences that invite guests into the celebration through interactive, modern setups filled with laughter, candid joy and spontaneous fun. With options like instant prints, digital sharing and select immersive booth experiences, each moment becomes a fun, shareable part of the celebration. Across weddings and events in Jacksonville, 904 Photo Co. transforms fleeting memories into keepsakes your guests can hold, share and relive long after the music fades.

PHOTOGRAPHER

She Exposure

“Behind the camera for almost a decade, we can say we’ve found our calling,” say She Exposure founders Lindsay and Carson. “We are documentary wedding and family photographers based in Jacksonville Beach, creating images with authentic emotion. Our work is centered around light, composition and human connection.” The dynamic photography duo believes their craft

PIECE OF CAKE

SELECT A WEDDING CAKE THAT LEAVES A LASTING IMPRESSION

PICTURE THIS: Everyone gathers around the newlyweds, the photographer gets the camera ready and the couple cuts that first slice of cake. It’s a time-honored tradition and a staple of the wedding reception. To make sure you leave your guests with a good taste in their mouths, picking out an attractive, delicious cake is a crucial part of planning for the big day.

The key elements of a successful wedding cake are size, design and flavor. If only it were that simple, right? Flavor alone can be tricky. Keep in mind that aside from the top tier (which many couples freeze and save for the first anniversary) and that first slice from the bottom, the newlyweds aren’t the only people enjoying the cake. As such, a thoughtful strategy when it comes to choosing flavors is pleasing the masses.

is more than simply operating a camera. Much more. It’s about capturing the beauty of life in a way that preserves genuine emotion for years to come. Weddings, engagements, fashion and boudoir… if it can be framed, they can capture it.

Runner Up: Jay Grubb Photography

REHEARSAL DINNER

Florida Yacht Club

Runner Up: The Refinery Jax Beach

RENTAL TUXEDOS Men’s Warehouse

While what’s on the inside is important, don’t underestimate the power of a first impression. That’s where design comes into play. Your cake should be uniquely yours, but it should also fit with the themes of the reception. For example, a contemporary design might look out of place in the midst of a very traditional reception setting.

One way to inject some flair into the cake design is by adding more elaborate details to traditional design. Rather than a miniature bride and groom topper, let’s say, some couples

use delicate floral arrangements, monograms or other figurines to personalize the design. And don’t be afraid to consider shapes other than the traditional round with multiple tiers. Squares, diamonds and other shapes are just as likely to make a statement.

At the end of the day—or evening, as it were—the cake may very well be the centerpiece of the reception. It doesn’t have to be, but a gorgeous cake is a chance to treat guests to something truly special and delicious before they leave the celebration. u

STAY ON SCHEDULE

THE TIME TO START PLANNING IS NOW!

with your engagement final and a date set, the months (or even weeks) ahead can become overwhelming. Whether you are dealing with the wedding plans yourself of have hired a professional, you likely will be seeking additional guidance. What’s needed is a solid plan, a timeline of important tasks to accomplish as the big day approaches. So, here you go, a six-month planner…

SIX MONTHS

 Establish a budget and hire a consultant, if your budget allows

 Set a timetable

 Reserve and meet with venues and vendors such as the florist, musicians, caterer, etc.

 Order the save-the-date cards and invitations

 Arrange for wedding day transportation

 Register for gifts

 Select and order wedding bands

 Name your bridesmaids and groomsmen

 Shop for and order a gown

 Reserve the band or DJ, or both

 Arrange the honeymoon details including hotel reservations, flights, car rentals, etc.

FOUR MONTHS

 Finalize your guest list

 Follow up with your hired vendors including the cake, dinner menu, photo list

 Plan for any specific decorations at the wedding and reception venues: Candles, flowers, family photos at the guest book table, etc.

 Schedule the rehearsal dinner and book the location

 Book a room for the wedding night

 Talk to the people you would like to read or sing at the ceremony or reception

 Arrange for a block or rooms at a hotel relatively close to the ceremony and reception sites for out-of-town guests

TWO MONTHS

 Mail invitations

 Review ceremony details with officiant

 Schedule a hair and makeup run-through

 Buy gifts for the wedding party

 Order party favors

 Write vows

 Decide on any insurance policy changes for the new couple. Insurance for the honeymoon isn’t a bad idea, either

SIX WEEKS

 Print or order ceremony programs, if planning to distribute to guests

 Apply for the marriage license

 Final dress fittings, for bride and bridesmaids

 Send rehearsal dinner invitations

TWO WEEKS

 Provide the DJ with the final music list

 Adding a list of songs you don’t want to hear is a good idea, too

 Provide photographer with a list of specific shots most important to you

 Update the gift registry

 Contact any invitee who did not RSVP

 Get your final haircut and/or color

ONE WEEK

 Pack for the honeymoon

 Provide caterer with the final headcount, adding extra for vendors such as the DJ and photographer

 Confirm all vendors

 Pick up the dress

 Wear your wedding day shoes to break them in

 Facial, if desired

 Supply reception site with any vendor requests, such as a table for the DJ, tablecloths, etc.

 Provide wedding day schedule to vendors and ceremony and reception sites

 Arrange welcome baskets or gifts for out-of-town guests

THREE DAYS BEFORE

 Get dress steamed, if necessary

 Pick up formalwear for groom

 Finalize the seating chart

 Write table place cards

ONE DAY BEFORE

 Manicure and pedicure

 Rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

 Provide emergency phone numbers for vendors to call on wedding day

 Give the marriage license to officiant

AFTER THE WEDDING

 Prearrange for rental returns as needed

 Pre-plan for tuxedos to be returned and gown to be picked up and cleaned

 Write and send thank-you notes for wedding gifts or other special guests who attended u

(Note: Reserving some venue and services may require much more than six months advance notice. Considering second and third options may be required.)

RESTAURANT VENUE Oceana

Opened in 2023 in San Marco, Oceana brings a fresh, seafood-forward concept to Jacksonville’s dining scene. Led by Executive Chef Sam Efron and co-owner Kiley Wynne Efron, the husband-and-wife team behind Taverna, Oceana blends a raw bar focus with creative interpretations of classic dishes. Menu highlights include inventive plates such as Udon Carbonara with crab, bacon, peas, parmesan and egg, and Miso Glazed Salmon Udon. Brunch favorites like their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and mimosa specials add to its appeal. Oceana also offers catering, private dining and event space, making it a versatile and memorable venue for gatherings.

Runner Up: The Reef

RUSTIC VENUE

Chandler Oaks Barn

Runner Up: Bowing Oaks

SMALL VENUE

Clay Theatre

Runner Up: Azaleana Manor

SPA FOR BRIDAL PARTY

Bartram Spa and Salon

Runner Up: The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

SPRAY TAN You Had Me At Glow

Runner Up: TanVita

Feeling good and looking good go hand in hand, particularly on one’s wedding day. In Neptune Beach, clients of Tan Vita visit for a flawless, custom spray tan tailored to your skin tone for a natural, sun-kissed look. No need to bake on the beach here. Instead, relax and

enjoy a luxurious custom spray tan infused with vitamins, plant extracts and anti-aging ingredients, giving you a sunny glow without the harmful effects of UV exposure.

STATEMENT JEWELRY Miriam’s Jewelry

Runner Up: Barnett Jewelers

SUNSET VENUE

Epping Forest Yacht Club

Runner Up: Cummer Museum of Art

At the Cummer, sunsets unfold across one of Jacksonville’s most scenic outdoor

venues. Founded in 1961 on the former estate of Ninah Cummer, the museum sits along the St. Johns River and features two-and-a-half acres of formal gardens. The outdoor spaces include centuries-old oak trees, reflecting pools, fountains and garden rooms inspired by Italian, English and Japanese garden traditions. The riverfront setting provides open views, shaded walkways and manicured lawns ideal for weddings and events. As daylight fades, the gardens offer an elegant backdrop where architecture, landscape design and the river meet in harmony.

GIVING & RECEIVING

ARE YOU READY TO REGISTER FOR WEDDING GIFTS?

Registering for gifts should be one of the most enjoyable parts of the wedding planning experience. After all, there are worse things than selecting things you’d love to receive from friends and family. But, at the same time, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed by the wide variety of stores, websites and advice out there. Fear not. A bridal registry can be much easier (and less stressful) if you begin the process with a few guidelines in mind.

First, and perhaps most important, when deciding where to register is to consider location and selection.

A store or site with a wide selection ensures you will find multiple registry options in one place—from china and chargers to towels and toasters. Also, make sure to register someplace accessible to all your invitees, no matter their location.

Also, consider convenience. The ideal registry makes it simple to create and manage your gifts list, both in a store or online. Your friends and family should be able find and access your registry with little effort. Also, they may appreciate the opportunity to partake of special sales or other deals offered by the retailer.

VIDEOGRAPHER

Tyler & MaKenzie Films

Runner Up: Jay Grubb Photography

WATERFRONT VENUE

Riverhouse Events

Runner Up: Casa Marina Hotel

WEDDING BANDS

Diamonds Direct

Beard’s Diamonds

If you’re not sure what to register for, truth is there aren’t any unbreakable rules. There are traditional home items that most young couples place on a registry. Stuff for the kitchen, fancy dishes and crystal wine glasses—you know what we mean. Chances are your parents and in-laws are going to have their opinions, but today’s registries allow for as many choices as one can imagine. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond classics like china, crystal and silver. Travel gear, interior decor items, art, and even stuff for the backyard are all acceptable to include on a list. Big ticket items like furniture are usually left off; however, it’s not unheard of for a group of friends to chip in together for something they know you will especially appreciate.

So, when it comes time to draw up a gift registry, don’t invite the whole family to participate. In this case, fewer opinions are usually better than more. It’s fine to ask for advice from relatives and a good friend

WEDDING COORDINATOR

Red Velvet Collective

Runner Up: Ethereal Atelier

Ethereal means “delicate beauty” and Atelier means “workshop of an artist.” So, it’s no suprise that owner Camille takes pride in creating only the most memorable occasions. “From small gatherings to meticulously planning my own wedding in 2021, I discovered a love for the process of event design and coordination,” she says. “My ultimate goal is to craft elevated events that go beyond the ordinary, infusing them with elegance and making every detail stand out.” Florals, catering, bartender, venue decor… let the expert take charge, make a plan and guide the process from start to finish. That way, the bride and groom, simply need to enjoy the big day.

WEDDING DRESS PRESERVATION Oceanside Cleaners

WEDDING GOWNS

Love, A Bridal Boutique

Runner Up: One Bridal u

RECEPTION SITES

DUVAL COUNTY

BEACHES MUSEUM CHAPEL

Jacksonville Beach | (904) 241-5657

BRICK & BEAM Springfield | (904) 374-2993

CASA MARINA

Jacksonville Beach | (904) 270-0025

THE CHAPEL AT BEACHES MUSEUM

Jacksonville Beach | (904) 241-5657

CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS

| (904) 356-6857

DEERCREEK COUNTRY CLUB

Southside | (904) 363-1604

DEERWOOD COUNTRY CLUB

Southside | (904) 641-6100

EPPING FOREST YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB San Jose | (904) 739-7200

FIVE POINTS CHAPEL Riverside | (904) 351-6692

GARDEN CLUB OF JACKSONVILLE

| (904) 355-4224

HAMPTON INN OCEANFRONT

Jacksonvillle Beach | (904) 685-3009

HYATT PLACE JACKSONVILLE / ST. JOHNS TOWN CENTER

St. Johns Town Center | (904) 641-7200

| (904) 329-1992

OCEAN BREEZE CONFERENCE & CATERING CENTER

Atlantic Beach | (904) 270-5313

ONE OCEAN RESORT & SPA

Atlantic Beach | (904) 249-7402

| (904) 387-9927

@ EPPING FORREST

| (904) 354-1111

RIVERDALE INN Riverside | (904) 354-5080

RUBY BEACH BREWING CO.

Jacksonville Beach | (904) 647-6044

ST. JOHNS COUNTY

BAYFRONT MARIN HOUSE

St Augustine | (904) 824-4301

CAFFE ANDIAMO

Ponte Vedra Beach | (904) 280-2299

CASA MONICA RESORT & SPA

St. Augustine | (904) 827-1888

ST. JOHNS COUNTY (continued)

KING & BEAR

St. Augustine | (904) 940-6088

LA VENTURE GROVE

Fruit Cove | (904) 891-4536

LIGHTNER MUSEUM WEDDINGS & EVENTS

St. Augustine | (904) 217-0077

THE LODGE & CLUB

Ponte Vedra Beach | (800) 243-4304

PONTE VEDRA INN & CLUB

Ponte Vedra Beach | (888) 839-9145

RENAISSANCE RESORT AT WORLD GOLF VILLAGE

St. Augustine | (904) 940-8000

SAWGRASS MARRIOTT GOLF RESORT & SPA

Ponte Vedra Beach | (904) 285-7777 ext #5

THE TREASURY ON THE PLAZA

St. Augustine | (904) 217-0077

CLAY COUNTY

AZALEANA MANOR

Orange Park | (904) 930-7514

CLAY THEATRE

Orange Park | (904) 419-7094

THE MANOR AT 12 OAKS

Green Cove Springs | (904) 657-2290

THRASHER-HORNE CENTER

Orange Park | (904) 276-6815

WINTERBOURNE INN

Orange Park | (904) 982-2827

NASSAU COUNTY

AMELIA HOTEL AT THE BEACH

Amelia Island | (904) 261-1919

THE BARN AT COTTONWOOD RANCH

Callahan | (904) 677-1350

OMNI AMELIA ISLAND RESORT & SPA

Amelia Island | (904) 261-6161

RESIDENCE INN AMELIA ISLAND

Amelia Island | (904) 557-9855

AMELIA ISLAND

Amelia Island | (904) 277-1100

GEORGIA’S GOLDEN ISLES

GREYFIELD INN

Cumberland Island | (904) 261-6408

HORSESTAMP INN

Waverly | (702) 427-5956

JEKYLL ISLAND CLUB RESORT

Jekyll Island | (855) 787-3857

KING & PRINCE BEACH & GOLF RESORT

Saint Simons Island | (912) 638-3631

SEA ISLAND RESORT

Sea Island | (855) 714-9201

WESTIN JEKYLL ISLAND

Jekyll Island | (912) 635-4545

Great Expectations

Every home needs a space where the family can enjoy daily life in uncluttered, casual comfort | PHOTOGRAPHY BY POLINA PIGULEVSKY

“Ialways plan for two living spaces on the main floor. It allows for maximum entertaining space and daily life. I love to have a large kitchen island because it’s great for feeding the family and having friends for dinner. Large windows and tall ceilings to bring in all the natural surrounding and sunlight. And incorporating as much outdoor space as possible,” says Lindsey Capps, owner and lead designer at Lindsey Capps Interiors. “But I think hidden and purposeful storage is my number one must have. By having a maximum amount of storage, a home feels less cluttered, more pulled together and offers a sense of calm. Custom cabinetry and creative space planning is where I spend a lot of time in each project.”

The designer had the opportunity to put her interior philosophies to work in her very own Ponte Vedra Beach home. After about a year’s worth of work, which concluded in February of 2025, her family of five (including husband Andy and three children ages 4, 6, and 9) settled into the 5,500-square-foot, five-bedroom, five-bath home—one that captures what she loves most about design and family life.

According to the homeowner/designer, the family inherited the existing footprint of the house, so when renovating the space, one goal was to open it up as much as possible, as well as create an interior around a main gathering space. So, she created the “Great Room,” a space where a family of five can live its daily lives side by side, but not be on top of one another.

“Off the Great Room, I placed secondary spaces for specific activities like a kids office for homework, scullery and working area with laundry and storage, and the formal office and game room,” says Capps. “The flow of the spaces allows us all to engage with one another, even if we are working on our own projects. Placing the kids study adjacent to the kitchen allows me to be working in the kitchen while homework is being done. The formal office has double doors that open to the front yard so the kids can play outside while I’m working. Our lives are made richer when we are all able to enjoy our time at home.”

Another space that was carefully planned is the second living room. This area was intended to double as a pool house with fully retractable sliding glass doors on both sides. Also, the east-facing wall has a bar with a counter that extends out to the turfed backyard to allow the flow of indoor entertaining to seamlessly continue outside.

“I tend to gravitate more to Scandinavian or Belgium modern designs. I find that a light color palette brings a feeling of calm, and when used consistently throughout the home it makes the rooms in every area feel connected. The light cabinets pair well with natural tones and textures, which is something else I find myself selecting over and over,” says Capps. “I intentionally selected the floors to be just a few shades darker than the cabinets. By keeping the color palate simple and closely related, it allows for other more uncommon design elements to be incorporated. A funky light fixture or an unusual art piece stands out just a bit more.”

In the kitchen, a unique stone top was desired for the island and

“Maybe the least noticed design choice are the reeded toe kicks.  It’s an often neglected and overlooked item. By choosing a dimensional application for them I feel it gives them a playful and unexpected boost to the design.”

cabinets. Capps says she selected Brazilian Quartzite because it offers durability and makes for a gorgeous focal point without being too busy like some marble stones can be. “My design choices always go back to the question, ‘how does this choice fit with the rest of the home design?’ They all need to feel unified.”

The result is that the truncated waterfall sides, dropped ceiling, picture window, spotlights above the island, and the extra thick countertop are all small but intentional design choices that elevate the space. No one design element overpowers the other. Instead, they all blend together and feel seamless.

“I made the choice to have a scullery to handle all of the overflow from the kitchen,” she continues. “It allowed me to move a lot of

“I try to design a home that can be lived in well, where my friends feel like they can bring their kids over to play and aren’t afraid of sitting on my couch. I want to spend time with people here and want them to enjoy themselves and feel welcome.”

those items commonly placed on the countertop into the scullery and keep the main kitchen space simple and uncluttered. The extra prep area keeps messes hidden, and provides lots of storage.”

The tall cabinet columns flanking the cooktop have doors that open, slide back, and recess so anyone preparing a meal can access the dishes and cooking items and still move easily around the kitchen without constantly opening and closing cabinets. Capps says she prefers to leave them open durning mealtimes for easy access to necessary utensils and such, and doing so cuts down on prep time and putting dishes away.

Large windows are present throughout much of the home. The desire for expansive windows and floor to ceiling glass doors is two-fold. First,

it allows for an abundance of natural light and it brings the indoor and exterior spaces together, making the home feel much larger. In addition, having large windows adds beauty from nature and the outdoors.

“The most beautiful aspect of a home is how well it blends its natural surroundings into the design. Nature organically brings a feeling of peace you can’t design, and you always have an opportunity to incorporate nature when you showcase it properly,” the designer says. “For instance, the picture window in the kitchen takes the place of art on the wall. It’s framed the bottle brush tree perfectly, and now you can watch the birds build their nests and watch the seasons change.”

Arguably the cutest space in the home is the cozy game nook. “Our family loves playing games as an alternative to watching TV. I wanted a fun and intentional space for us to spend time together that could also function as a daytime office. Sometimes I’ll spend the day working from here, and the next we will put out a board game. It’s a great way for us to unwind and unplug and have some fun.”

Most of the furniture is from previous homes. Capps says she tends to buy neutral textured pieces that can be reused easily. Custom pieces like the love

“I start with a very practical floor plan and I think about the daily use of every space. A home needs to blend form and function. When a house flows seamlessly, it feels effortless to accomplish daily tasks.”

seat in the office and the concrete game tables are the only new items purchased specifically for the home.

“Without a doubt my favorite part of the home is the Great Room. It incorporates the kitchen, living room, dining area and the coffee nook, a little jewel box with two giant swivel chairs where we love to sit and sip coffee on the weekends. It’s a joy to live and entertain in this space,” Capps says.

“Utilizing every square inch and making the most of the spaces you have can result in unexpected surprises,” she continues. “When I reworked our staircase, we ended up with room for an upstairs guest bedroom. It’s become one of the most fun spaces we didn’t expect to have.” u

Sources :

CONSTRUCTION: Alesch Contracting | PLASTER: Studio Nico

LANDSCAPING: Dune Landscaping | STONE: Mediterranean Designs

SPECIALTY TILE: CIOT | ARCHITECT: William T. Baker

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 1776, May 14-June 14, and Shrek The Musical , June 18-August 9. 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 York-style 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, $$.

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, macn-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. 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 Continued on page 112

Say Cheese!

SWEET, SALTY AND SAVORY DREAMS ARE MADE OF THESE….

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

Whether you call it gooey, chewy, buttery, stretchy, melty, creamy or even funky, there's something about cheese that's undeniably crave-worthy. The bottom line is that cheese, no matter how or where you find it, is tasty, enjoyable and fun. From mild to sharp, salty to sweet, domestic to imported, it's estimated there are more than 1,000 different varieties either produced or available here in America. Whether you elect to consume them at home or in restaurants, there are countless ways to enjoy these culinary delights.

If you're ready to have an unforgettable cheese experience, the best place to start is the all-American burger. In Jacksonville, some of the best and cheesiest varieties are served at Epik (Jacksonville and St Johns). No need to settle for everyday American cheese. Try their Red Dragon Burger made with Red Dragon Cheddar, Epikurean Burger made

with Maytag cave-ripened Bleu cheese, or the Fruit & Cheese Burger topped with Old Quebec three-year aged super sharp Cheddar (each $14). Of course, you can build your own, selecting between several varieties of cheddar, bleu, pepper Jack, emmental Swiss, goat, brie, parmesan and pecorino.

Another option, considered a staple of Southern cuisine, is mac-n-cheese. Although widely available across town, Spliff's Gastropub (Riverside and Bayard) serves some of the best. If you like yours straight up, their String Cheese Incident mac n cheese ($15), made with cheddar, Swiss, provolone, mozzarella, smoked gouda, and goat cheese can't be beat. You'll also find exceptional variations that feature BBQ pork, tri-tip steak, grilled chicken and shrimp.

At the more epicurean end of the spectrum, the lobster mac n cheese ($20 small) at

Orsay (Avondale) is not to be missed. Made with cavatappi, lobster, gruyere and Parmigiano, this dish is cheesy, crunchy, creamy and incredibly indulgent. Before you dig in, consider starting your meal with a selection of fine cheeses offered here such as Brillat-Savarin, Mekkerstee Oud, Treur Villa Bleu and Humbolt Fog to name a few, accompanied by a crisp white or full-bodied red wine.

If pairing wine and cheese sounds good, you may also want to try the Cured + Aged cheese and charcuterie board ($22 serves four) at Town Hall (San Marco). Choose from a selection of meats along with cheeses such as Manchego, marinated feta and Chef Tom Grey’s house-made pimento cheese.

It goes without saying that one of the most alluring and decadent applications for cheese is in sauces. While dishes such as Welsh rarebit, potatoes au gratin and mous-

saka are wonderful examples, you don't want to miss the highly entertaining and deliciously prepared Signature Cacio E Pepe ($24) at one of the two Bella Vista Italian Restaurants (Fruit Cove and Jacksonville Beach). Prepared tableside, hot and creamy fettucine is tossed in a wheel of pecorino romano, then spooned onto a plate just for you.

There's also fondue, a traditional Swiss dish made popular in the late 1960s, designed to be shared by everyone at the table. A true Jax classic, The Melting Pot (Deerwood) serves a variety of cheese fondues, as well as several chocolate fondues for dessert.

Influenced by French, Italian and British culinary traditions, cheese is a wonderful thing to enjoy at the end of the meal, paired with a fine cognac, brandy or port. If your preferences lean towards something sweeter, there's always cheesecake. Arguably, some of the best cheesecakes in Jacksonville are served at bb's (Southbank) and Biscottis (Avondale). While their most popular is key lime, they offer an enticing variety (availability changes throughout the year) including cappuccino chocolate truffle, limoncello, praline, New York or lemon blueberry.

Should you prefer a cheesy adventure from the comfort of your own home, or you're eager to present new and exciting varieties while entertaining, the best (and only) true cheese shop in Jacksonville is Grater

Goods (Murray Hill). Featuring an impressive selection of artisanal American and imported cheeses, you'll find varieties not readily available in mainstream grocery stores. You'll also find a wide variety of specialty foods including conservas (tinned fish), caviar, and everything else you could want for an elegant, cheese-centric, dinner party. Alternatively, there's a broad selection of cheeses at Whole Foods (Mandarin and Jacksonville Beach), intriguing Latino varieties at Rowe's

(multiple locations), a range of Middle Eastern cheeses at Hala's Mideast Eatery and Market, and Eastern European styles at Romashka Euro Store (Jacksonville, St. Johns)

Each of these options offers plenty of choice and exciting culinary experiences. When you consider the seemingly endless number of variables, whether listed on menus or discovered in the retailer's cheese case, there's a lot to explore. So many cheeses. So little time. u

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 house-made 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 (310-6049, 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. $$$.

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 (824-7765; 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

Continued on page 115

Oyster Bar!

Local Fish • Shrimp • Clams • Mussels • Oysters Crab: Snow • Alaska King • Stone (Seasonal) Homemade Soups & Salads • Desserts

Family Owned & Operated

Check our website for hours & special rewards 725-12 Atlantic Blvd. • 904.246.0123 • the shcojax.com

DREAM STREET: Main Street, Springfield

PIZZA SLICES, KAROKE, CROISSANTS, MUFFINS, CRAFT BEER…YES, PLEASE

CRISPY’S 2.0

One big room with a woodtopped bar stretching down the left side as you enter, Crispy’s serves a sizable variety of pub eats, salads, sandwiches, wings and quesadillas. They’re good, but pizza and calzones are the house specialties. The Klutho PK is a meaty marvel topped with pepperoni, Azar andouille sausage, applewood smoked bacon and sliced ham, with mozzarella and San Marzano tomato sauce ($29). Pool tables, darts and video games on the loft level in back. 1735 N. Main St., 904-661-1503

You know you have reached the Gnarly Gar in Satsuma when the road ends. Literally. Wind your way through the ramshackle community of Hermit’s Cove in Satsuma, a few miles south of Palatka along Hwy. 17, and you’ll come upon the tiny bar and marina sitting on the edge of Barrentine Creek, a picturesque slice of water that branches off the St. Johns River. A true “no shoes, no problem” kind of place, the one-room joint has been around more than 50 years. There’s a pool table, $3 Budweisers in the ice chest, picnic tables under a covered porch and a broad deck over looking the water. Keep an eye out for blue herons, cormorants, egrets and alligators. Sunsets are particularly pretty. On weekends, you may find the Discreet Eats food truck parked out front, offering cheeseburgers and fries ($12), hot dogs ($4) and chicken tacos ($12). Opens at 11 AM Wednesday to Sunday. u

1748 BAKEHOUSE

Red brick inside and out, the neighborhood standout serves breakfast sandwiches, mu ffi ns, French toast, croissants, lattes, salads, soups and more Tuesday-Sunday. Love the grilled sourdough bread on the pimento BLT ($11). The roast beef and gruyere on toasted pumpernickel is delish, too. The fresh Danish in the bakery case are feasts for the eyes and tastebuds. Selections change daily. Cold drinks, wine, bread, crafty items and gifts for sale up front. 1748 N. Main St., 904-374-2541

STRINGS SPORTS BREWERY

Cavernous pub and craft brewery breathes new life into a 1930s Art Deco building. From boiled peanuts and beer cheese fries to smoked brisket sandwiches and pulled pork, the menu is made for watching the game— Jags football, college basketball, Premier League soccer, you name it. The house Red Caps ale is named for a Negro League team that played in Jax 80 years ago. Patio seating out front. Opens daily at 11 AM. 1850 N. Main St., 904-475-2970 u

Drink Up!

In early April, thousands of commemorative America250 cans began rolling off the lines at Coke Florida’s Jacksonville manufacturing facility. To mark the nation’s 250th anniversary, the 7.5 oz. cans spotlight all 50 states including Florida and are now available in mini-can packaging at retail locations statewide. The Jax plant is one of only a handful of Coke facilities producing the commemorative packaging. “Coca-Cola has been a unique and deeply rooted part of Americana for nearly 140 years,” says Troy Taylor, chairman and CEO of Coke Florida, bottler and distributor of Coke products across 47 Florida counties. “As we celebrate this milestone, we’re proud to join our fellow bottling partners and the Coca-Cola Company in bringing these commemorative cans to life.”

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Tampa, Coke Florida is one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the country. "From a JAX Manufacturing operations standpoint, we produce an average of approximately 20 million cases annually across 134 distinct products (SKUs), including both bottle and can formats,” says Territory General Manager Jack Palmorn. u

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 hand-held 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 (5127777, 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 highend 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 longtime 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 (2640636); 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, $$

1928 Cuban Bistro

At this growing collection of homegrown casual bistros, authentic Cuban recipes are infused with a contemporary flair. Breakfast items include mini croquetas and egg sandwich, ham and

Continued on page 119

DINNER DATES

“It’s incredibly moving to witness our community come together for a shared purpose and mission—to keep children safe from child abuse,” says Edward Burr, founder of the Monique Burr Foundation for Children. The Foundation hosted its 5th annual A Night at the Vineyard fundraiser on April 24—delayed a couple weeks because of stormy weather earlier in the month— at the SoNapa Grille in Jacksonville Beach. Guests were treated to musical entertainment, live and silent auctions, wine and food pairings and more—raising over $283,000. u

This year’s Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Wine Tasting Gala raised a staggering $340,000 to help area families who are tackling childhood cancer. More than 1,000 guests were on hand the evening of March 5 to taste some 150 fine wines and sample cuisine from two dozen restaurants. A VIP party was held inside the Jaguars’ Miller Electric Center practice facility while the main event took place across several levels of VyStar Ballpark. Guest were treated to a silent auction featuring luxury travel packages and autographed sports memorabilia. Now in its 22nd year, the event has raised nearly $5 million for families facing the financial, emotional and practical struggles that come with childhood cancer.  u

The significant cold snap of January 2026, which sent temperatures plunging across the Sunshine State, become the optimal testing grounds for University of Florida scientists developing new cold-hardy avocados at the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). The chill underscored just how valuable this research is and demonstrated that several UF-bred avocado types can withstand temperatures that would normally wipe out commercial varieties. “I’m from Puerto Rico, and we love avocados,” Jose Chaparro, associate professor of horticultural sciences, says. “But in Gainesville and North Florida, there are very few trees because the types grown in South Florida or California just can’t survive our winters.”

The UF/IFAS plant breeding program has spent more than 70 years creating fruit varieties suited to Florida’s diverse environments, including peaches, citrus, blueberries, finger limes and other crops that have become staples of the state’s agricultural landscape. Building on this legacy, the avocado breeding program launched in 2005 to produce an avocado that survives hard freezes and meets commercial expectations for quality. The UF-bred avocados survived at temperatures as low as 17 to 18 degrees, a significant advancement for avocado cultivation, according to Chaparro. “This year was excellent for separating and categorizing different levels of cold resistance,” he says. “You could clearly see which trees were damaged and which ones stayed green.” u

Beer of the Month

Self-serve ice tea and soda stations are old hat. But beer, wine and cocktails? It’s still something of a novelty in Jax, and nobody is doing it bigger than Pour Taproom on Laura Street. The Downtown establishment has 80 self-pour taps arrayed over two levels and some 7,000 square feet. Guests check in at the front desk, where they provide ID and method for payment. Then, head to the banks of draught handles and start pouring. Burgers, quesadillas, chicken wings, sandwiches and more round out a menu of pub-style fare. There is a full-sevice bar, should you crave libations not available by the pull. Open daily for lunch and dinner. u

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Feeding Northeast Florida sorted, packed and helped distribute more than 38 million pounds of food last year. That’s a lot of work, for sure. Chances are it will move even more food this year, but with decidedly more fun than before. The organization has launched Warehouse Jams, a new series of volunteer nights at its Old Kings Road headquarters. Attendees sort and pack food for distribution to help local families. That’s the work. Now the fun—each night features a DJ, light refreshments and drinks including beer, wine and a signature cocktail. Upcoming series themes are the family-friendly Disney Night (June 5), an R&B singles mixer (July 17), and the 21+ only X-Plicit Night (August 14). Events runs 6-8 PM and tickets, which include two drink tickets, are $40 per person, $75 for a couple. Kids are $10 with an adult. Participation is capped at 100 each night. Good fun, good friends and good deeds. Sounds like a win, win, win. u

cheese tostada and open-face toast topped with avocado, bacon, fried eggs and more. A lengthy menu covers much ground with Cuban espresso, roasted pork sandwiches, chicken empanadas, shredded beef sandwiches, and rice plates with braised chicken, pork, ground beef and more. Eight First Coast locations including 3928 Baymeadows Rd., Baymeadows (683-8104, 1928bistro. com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

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 (2417188, 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 halfpound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2417637; 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 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)

Continued on page 121

Macarons • Lavazza Coffee Fine Chocolates • Gelato

Jacksonville The Avenues Mall The Shoppes of Avondale

Savannah Broughton Street Collection

“Serving Locals at the Beach for 37 Years”

Brunchaladas

BY EXECUTIVE CHEF BOBBY PARLON, CASTILLO CRAFT BAR + KITCHEN

Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen is connected to the Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel, a spot that lures plenty of Oldest City visitors. However, thanks to a mix of creative cocktails and inventive dishes employing seasonal and regional ingredients, the eatery attracts its fare share of locals, too. Current house specialties include the bison burger with pimento cheese, lemony ricotta cavatelli, and the signature brunch dish, Brunchaladas. Here, executive chef Bobby Parlon shares some south of the border flavors one can enjoy at home or at Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen.

LIME CREMA

1 cup mayonnaise

1 cup sour cream

2 limes, zested and juiced

1 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped

½ Tbs. each granulated garlic & onion

Salt and pepper, to taste

Procedure: Add ingredients to a mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Taste for seasoning and adjust. For best results, refrigerate and let sit for 24 hours, to allow the flavors to combine.

ENCHILADA SAUCE

2 oz. olive oil

10 tomatillos, whole

2 jalapeño peppers, whole

2 poblano peppers, whole

2 yellow onions, peeled & quartered

2 bunches scallions

1 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped

2 limes, zested and juiced

¼ cup sugar

1 Tbs. each ground cumin & coriander

Salt and pepper, to taste

Procedure:

1. Prepare the tomatillos by removing the husks and washing off any sticky residue.

2. Place the onions, jalapeño peppers, tomatillos and poblano peppers in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, cumin and coriander and toss to coat thoroughly.

3. Heat a large, dry pan over high heat. Char the poblano peppers, jalapeño peppers, and tomatillos until the skins begin to peel away, then return them to the large mixing bowl. Char the onions and scallions in the same pan.

4. While the onions are charring, split open the poblano peppers and remove the seeds and ribs. Return everything to the mixing bowl and add the remaining ingredients; toss to combine.

5. Using a blender, process into a smooth sauce, in batches if necessary. Taste for seasoning.

2 oz. olive oil

11 oz. tomatillos, whole (approximately 4 to 6 medium fresh tomatillos)

24 oz. poblano peppers, whole (approximately 8 to 10 mediumto-large fresh poblano peppers)

1 lb. cream cheese, softened 1 tsp. each granulated garlic, ground cumin and coriander

Procedure:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Prepare the tomatillos by removing the husks and washing off any sticky residue. Add the tomatillos and poblano peppers to a large mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper and toss to coat thoroughly.

3. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes. Once cool to the touch, split open the poblano peppers and remove the seeds and ribs.

4. Dice the poblano peppers and tomatillos. You should have 16 oz. of prepared poblanos and 8 oz. of prepared tomatillos.

5. Add to the mixing bowl along with the remaining ingredients. Mix until combined and cool.

ENCHILADAS

12 oz. fresh chorizo sausage 12 6-inch corn tortillas neutral cooking oil

Procedure:

1. Remove the chorizo from the casing, if necessary, and cook according to package instructions. Drain on paper towels.

2. Place ½ inch of oil in a large, shallow pan and heat it to 360 degrees. Lightly fry the corn tortillas for 5 seconds on each side to soften the tortillas.

3. Lay fried tortillas on a wire rack over a cookie sheet to drain the excess oil.

4. Assemble the enchiladas by placing 1.5 oz. of the green chili cream cheese in the middle of the fried tortilla. Place 1 oz. of cooked chorizo on top of the cream cheese mixture.

4. Roll up the tortilla and place seam-side down in a dish. Repeat until all tortillas are stuffed and rolled.

For Garnish:

Pico de gallo, homemade or your favorite store brand Cilantro, cleaned, stems removed, and finely minced or micro-cilantro, cleaned

Finished Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. When heated, place three enchiladas on a small sheet pan and warm them in the oven for 5 minutes.

3. Cook an egg however you prefer.

4. Ladle 6 oz. of the enchilada sauce on the bottom of a medium bowl.

5. Place the warmed enchiladas in the sauce and top with the egg.

6. Place 2 oz. of pico de gallo on top of the eggs and drizzle generously with the lime crema.

7. Garnish with cilantro, serve immediately and enjoy.u

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 sea food-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, peel-and-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 (904-2416996, 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 Sat -

urday, 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 (3980726; 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.

A J Beach Ic f 30 Ye s

Only in Florida

STRANGE BUT TRUE STORIES FROM ACROSS THE SUNSHINE STATE

o twerking! You will be charged with disorderly conduct!” So declared a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer at Panama City Beach in March. Reportedly, local law enforcement apparently had enough of unruly spring breakers and were doing what they could to put a stop to it. Twerking isn’t illegal, Bay County sheriff Tommy Ford admitted. He added that while the dance move is “not inherently against the law unless it becomes lewd or if there is a noise ordinance complaint.” So, please, twerk quietly.

One never truly knows what you’ll find when checking into an Airbnb. It’s not uncommon for beautiful photos of a short-term rental property on Airbnb’s website to look better than the real thing. Recently, a group of friends staying in the Punta Gorda area received a surprise and scare. No, not an uncomfortable bed—but reportedly a baby ball python curled up in the covers of one. Fortunately, the reptile isn’t poisonous and the houseguests, once able to muster enough courage, placed a t-shirt over the snake and carried it outside. Pythons are unwanted invasive species in Florida, so letting it free outside isn’t the preferred method of disposal.

Speaking of Airbnbs: In March, Nicolette Keough, 31, was arrested for

reportedly renting two Pensacola properties and then conducting some business. Her business, you ask? Recording herself urinating on furniture and other items inside the rentals and then posting the recordings on an adult content platform. According to police reports, Keough faces two felony criminal mischief charges, damaging more than $5,000 in personal property. “There was a young lady inside making money in a very unusual way that damaged somebody else’s property,” said Pensacola police officer Mike Wood. Well said, Mike.

Two men are facing felony charges after they were spotted driving across Florida with an alligator strapped to the roof of their car. In early April, witnesses reported seeing the gator-adorned vehicle as it traveled near Walt Disney World on a Saturday afternoon. Police license plate readers subsequently tracked the auto as it moved through other Central Florida locales. The car was eventually pulled over in Melbourne around 7 PM by a Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officer. The suspects, Anthony Buhl, 56, and Mark Chadwick, 57, were arrested and charged with illegal killing, possessing, or capturing of alligators or other crocodilia or eggs. The men were booked into the Brevard County jail, from where they were later freed after posting $5,000 bond apiece. u