Amelia Island is a charming and historic island located in the northeastern corner of Florida, just south of the Georgia border. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With a variety of restaurants offering a range of culinary delights, Amelia Island has become a top destination for foodies seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.
One of the reasons that Amelia Island has become a culinary destination is its unique blend of Southern, coastal, and international cuisine. The island’s chefs draw inspiration from the local seafood, seasonal produce, and rich culinary traditions of the region, creating dishes that are both innovative and delicious.
In addition to the quality of the food, Amelia Island’s restaurants offer beautiful settings and excellent service, making dining here a memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a casual meal with friends, or a family-friendly brunch, Amelia Island has something to offer.
In this guide, we will explore the best restaurants on Amelia Island for an unforgettable culinary experience. We will cover a range of dining options, from fine dining to casual restaurants, and highlight the must-try dishes at each place. Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot to try, or a visitor planning a trip to Amelia Island, this guide will help you discover the island’s culinary gems.
The Best Fine Dining Restaurants on Amelia Island
Amelia Island boasts a range of fine dining restaurants that offer impeccable service, elegant decor, and innovative cuisine. Here are some of the best fine-dining restaurants on the island:
Salt: One of the most popular fine dining restaurants on Amelia Island, Salt offers contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant has an impressive wine list and a stunning ocean view. Some of the must-try dishes at Salt include the truffle fries, the pan-seared diver scallops, and the grass-fed beef tenderloin. Prices at Salt range from $35 to $60 for entrees.
David’s Restaurant & Lounge: Located inside the Ritz Carlton on Amelia Island, David’s Restaurant & Lounge offers a refined dining experience with a menu featuring classic dishes with modern twists. The restaurant has an extensive wine list and a luxurious atmosphere. Some of the standout dishes at David’s include the lobster bisque, the Wagyu beef, and the seared sea bass. Prices at David’s range from $45 to $75 for entrees.
Bob’s Steak & Chop House: If you’re in the mood for a great steak, Bob’s Steak & Chop House is the place to go. The restaurant has a classic, upscale atmosphere and an impressive selection of prime beef cuts. Some of the must-try dishes at Bob’s include the filet mignon, the bone-in ribeye, and the lamb chops. Prices at Bob’s range from $40 to $60 for entrees.
Lagniappe: This charming restaurant offers a fusion of Southern and Cajun cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. Lagniappe has a cozy and intimate atmosphere and a menu that changes seasonally. Some of the standout dishes at Lagniappe include the blackened shrimp and grits, the crawfish étouffée, and the fried green tomatoes. Prices at Lagniappe range from $25 to $40 for entrees.
The Best Casual Dining Restaurants on Amelia Island
Amelia Island is home to many casual dining restaurants that offer delicious food in a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, these restaurants are perfect for a more relaxed dining experience. Here are some of the best casual dining restaurants on the island:
The Salty Pelican Bar & Grill: Located in Fernandina Beach, The Salty Pelican Bar & Grill is a casual waterfront restaurant with a lively atmosphere. The restaurant offers a menu of classic American cuisine with a focus on seafood. Some of the must-try dishes at The Salty Pelican include fish tacos, shrimp and grits, and the crab cake sandwich. Prices at The Salty Pelican range from $10 to $20 for entrees.
Timoti’s Seafood Shak: This casual seafood shack offers fresh, locally-sourced seafood in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant has a menu of classic seafood dishes like fish and chips, shrimp po’boys, and oysters on the half-shell. Some of the standout dishes at Timoti’s include the blackened fish tacos, the fried shrimp basket, and the lobster roll. Prices at Timoti’s range from $10 to $20 for entrees.
T-Rays Burger Station: This classic burger joint offers delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a nostalgic atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with vintage memorabilia and has a laid-back vibe. Some of the must-try dishes at T-Rays include the classic cheeseburger, the chili cheese fries, and the banana pudding milkshake. Prices at T-Rays range from $5 to $10 for entrees.
Amelia Island Coffee: For a quick breakfast or a casual lunch, Amelia Island Coffee is the perfect spot. The cafe offers a selection of coffee drinks, smoothies, sandwiches, and pastries. Some of the standout dishes at Amelia Island Coffee include the breakfast burrito, the turkey and brie sandwich, and the avocado toast. Prices at Amelia Island Coffee range from $5 to $15 for entrees.
The Best International Cuisine Restaurants on Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a diverse culinary destination that offers an array of international cuisine restaurants. From Asian fusion to Mediterranean and Latin American such as Ritz Carlton Florida, these restaurants serve up flavors from around the world. Here are some of the best international cuisine restaurants on the island:
España Restaurant & Tapas: This Spanish restaurant is located in Fernandina Beach and serves up authentic Spanish cuisine with a focus on tapas. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere and offers a selection of small plates that are perfect for sharing. Some of the must-try dishes at España Restaurant & Tapas include the patatas bravas, the gambas al ajillo, and the paella. Prices at España range from $10 to $30 for tapas and entrees.
Ceviche Jax: This Latin American restaurant is located in downtown Fernandina Beach and serves up traditional Peruvian cuisine with a focus on ceviche. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and offers a menu of fresh seafood dishes with a Latin twist. Some of the standout dishes at Ceviche Jax include the ceviche mixto, the arroz con mariscos, and the lomo saltado. Prices at Ceviche Jax range from $10 to $25 for entrees.
Le Clos: This French restaurant is located in the heart of historic downtown Fernandina Beach and offers a fine dining experience with a menu of classic French cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy and elegant atmosphere with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes at Le Clos include the escargots de Bourgogne, the coq au vin, and the bouillabaisse. Prices at Le Clos range from $25 to $50 for entrees.
Wicked Bao: This Asian fusion restaurant is located in downtown Fernandina Beach and offers a menu of creative dishes inspired by traditional Asian street food. The restaurant has a casual and eclectic atmosphere with a focus on bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Some of the standout dishes at Wicked Bao include pork belly bao, Korean fried chicken wings, and pad Thai prices at Wicked Bao range from $10 to $20 for entrees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Amelia Island is a hidden gem for foodies seeking an unforgettable culinary experience. From fine dining to casual restaurants and international cuisine, the island offers a wide range of options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood or international flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the best fine dining restaurants on the island include the Salt at the Ritz-Carlton and Burlingame Restaurant, while casual dining options can be found at places like T-Rays Burger Station and Timoti’s Seafood Shak. For those seeking international flavors, España Restaurant & Tapas, Ceviche Jax, Le Clos, Wicked Bao, and Arte Pizza are must-visit restaurants.
Additionally, Amelia Island is home to many local farmers, fishermen, and artisans who supply the restaurants with fresh and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a high-quality culinary experience.
