Florida

When you grow up in California, you really don’t have a need for Florida. But after a decade in NYC, you start to see its value.  My trips have really centered around visiting in-laws in Ponte Vedra (often) or business trips to Miami (rare).

Jacksonville Area

Sub Cultured: On the border of Atlantic Baech is the best sandwich around; The Godfather or the Hitman; and yes, try the poutine! ($$)

Medure: a sleek Ponte Vedra place with some of the best food in Florida; try the meatloaf! ($$$)

Black Sheep:  great space (roof), great menu, and great food (short ribs, grits)…and yes, great service ($$$)

Midtown Table: fantastic, casual Italian from the Medure gang ($$$)

Valley Smoke: Whiskey, BBQ, deviled eggs, and smoked brisket poutine on the intercoastal; everything is delicious ($$$)

Whitey’s Fish Camp:  the best fried combo I’ve had! ($$)

Palm Valley Fish Camp: Another great intercoastal fish camp slightly higher end ($$$)

Palm Valley Outdoors: Again, some of the best fried seafood around, especially the oysters ($$)

The Seafood Kitchen: fried shrimp, a can of PBR and a good attitude is all you need ($)

Barbara Jean’s: crab cakes, chicken fried steak and other Southern fried food in a diner/deck setting ($$)

Miami

Mandolin:  Supercool, insanely delicious, primarily outdoor Greek/Turkish place; be sure to over-order!  ($$$)

Sanguich:  best Cuban sammie in Little Havana, but don’t skip the croquettes as they are even better! ($)

Verde: cool outdoor spot at the Perez with amazing food and views ($$)

Prime 112: MUST try the stuffed lobster…INSANE; plus, bacon at the bar!  ($$$$)

Casa Tua:  A restaurant?  A Club? A Hotel?  Who knows, but I’ve always had a good meal ($$$$)

Zumi: Best sushi in Florida; creative ($$$$)