Last updated on September 25th, 2023 at 05:39 am
5 Great Jacksonville Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants
These five great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants each each have their own unique charm and flavors. From Southern soul food to international cuisines, the possibilities are endless.
Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, serving up mouthwatering dishes like their signature Candy Apple Burger. Jax Diner delights visitors with comfort food classics like Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles. Mambos Cuban Cafe takes diners on a flavorful journey to Cuba, with their authentic Cuban Sandwich stealing the show. V Pizza brings a taste of Italy to Jacksonville with their Neapolitan-style pizza, while Mossfire Grill offers a warm and inviting ambiance alongside their standout Smoked Gouda Grits.
Now you know why these are some of the popular Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants just waiting for you to discover them. However, it’s important to let you know that this is not an exhaustive list of the favorite Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants and that this list is in no particular order.
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1) Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails
Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails is one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants located in the heart of the city. This family-owned and operated establishment is a hidden gem, offering a unique dining experience that combines delectable cuisine with a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
One of the standout features of Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails is its incredible signature food. The restaurant is renowned for its mouthwatering Candy Apple Burger, a culinary masterpiece that combines a juicy beef patty with crispy applewood-smoked bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy apple butter spread. This delightful combination of flavors and textures is a true treat for the taste buds and keeps customers coming back for more.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles”: This indulgent dish features perfectly crispy fried chicken served atop fluffy Belgian waffles, accompanied by a generous drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The juxtaposition of sweet and savory flavors in this classic Southern comfort food is simply heavenly.
2. “Shrimp and Grits”: A Southern staple done right, Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails’ Shrimp and Grits is a must-try. Succulent sautéed shrimp are served over a bed of creamy stone-ground grits, infused with a rich and flavorful sauce that showcases a harmonious blend of spices and herbs. This dish captures the essence of Southern cuisine in every delicious bite.
3. “Key Lime Pie Martini”: For those looking to indulge their sweet tooth, the Key Lime Pie Martini is a delightful choice. This cocktail is a refreshing and tangy twist on a classic dessert. Made with fresh lime juice, vanilla vodka, and a graham cracker rim, this liquid confection captures the essence of a key lime pie in a perfectly sippable form.
Customer Reviews:
“Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails is a true hidden gem in Jacksonville! The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel right at home. The Candy Apple Burger is out of this world, and the Shrimp and Grits are to die for. Highly recommended!”
“I stumbled upon this hole-in-the-wall restaurant during my visit to Jacksonville, and I’m so glad I did! The food at Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails exceeded all my expectations. The Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles were absolutely delicious, and the Key Lime Pie Martini was the perfect way to end the meal.”
“Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails is a must-visit if you’re in Jacksonville. The menu is filled with unique and flavorful dishes that cater to various tastes. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, and the service is top-notch. Don’t miss out on their incredible Shrimp and Grits!”
Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails truly lives up to its reputation as one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants. This family-owned and operated establishment offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where diners can indulge in a culinary adventure. They are one of the best Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
From their signature Candy Apple Burger to the delightful Key Lime Pie Martini, every dish at Candy Apple Cafe and Cocktails is crafted with care and passion. Whether you’re a local looking for a hidden gem or a visitor seeking an authentic dining experience, this restaurant is a must-try destination. They rank high among the best Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants for good reasons.
2) Jax Diner
Jax Diner is one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants located in a charming neighborhood of the city. This family-owned and operated establishment offers a unique dining experience that combines comfort food with a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere.
The signature food at Jax Diner is their famous Southern-style Fried Chicken. This delectable dish features crispy and golden-brown fried chicken with a perfectly seasoned coating that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. The chicken is tender and juicy on the inside, making it a true comfort food classic that keeps customers coming back for more.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich”: This New Orleans-inspired sandwich is a crowd favorite at Jax Diner. It features succulent shrimp, lightly battered and fried to perfection, nestled inside a soft and fluffy French bread roll. Topped with lettuce, tomato, and a zesty remoulade sauce, this sandwich is bursting with flavor and offers a delightful combination of textures.
2. “Jax Diner Burger”: The Jax Diner Burger is a must-try for burger enthusiasts. This juicy and flavorful burger is made with a perfectly seasoned beef patty, grilled to perfection, and topped with melted cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickles. Served on a toasted brioche bun, it’s a classic American favorite that never disappoints.
3. “Southern Pecan Pie”: For a sweet ending to your meal, indulge in Jax Diner’s Southern Pecan Pie. This homemade dessert features a buttery and flaky crust filled with a rich and gooey pecan filling. Served warm and topped with a dollop of whipped cream, it’s a heavenly treat that embodies the essence of Southern hospitality.
Customer Reviews:
“Jax Diner is a true gem in Jacksonville! The cozy and relaxed atmosphere makes you feel right at home. Their Fried Chicken is the best I’ve had in the city, and the Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich is simply amazing. I can’t wait to go back and try more of their delicious menu items.”
“I stumbled upon Jax Diner while exploring Jacksonville, and it was a fantastic find! The Jax Diner Burger was juicy and flavorful, and the fries were crispy and perfectly seasoned. The service was friendly and attentive, and the overall vibe of the place was welcoming. Highly recommended!”
“If you’re looking for a hole-in-the-wall restaurant with incredible food, look no further than Jax Diner. Their Southern Pecan Pie is to die for, and their Fried Chicken is a game-changer. The staff is friendly, and the prices are reasonable. It’s a hidden gem that deserves all the praise.”
Jax Diner is truly one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants, offering a cozy and welcoming dining experience. As a family-owned and operated establishment, they serve up comfort food favorites with a touch of Southern charm. They are one of the popular Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
From their famous Southern-style Fried Chicken to the flavorful Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich and the indulgent Southern Pecan Pie, Jax Diner’s menu is filled with delicious options that satisfy cravings and warm the soul. If you’re seeking a laid-back atmosphere and outstanding comfort food, Jax Diner is the place to be in Jacksonville. They stand out among the popular Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
3) Mambos Cuban Cafe
Mambos Cuban Cafe is one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants situated in a vibrant area of the city. This family-owned and operated establishment takes diners on a culinary journey to Cuba, offering an authentic and flavorful dining experience.
The signature food at Mambos Cuban Cafe is their mouthwatering Cuban Sandwich. This classic delicacy features layers of slow-roasted pork, thinly sliced ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed together between freshly baked Cuban bread. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that epitomizes the essence of Cuban cuisine.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Ropa Vieja”: This traditional Cuban dish translates to “old clothes” and is a true standout at Mambos Cuban Cafe. Tender and juicy shredded beef is simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and aromatic spices. Served with white rice and sweet plantains, this hearty and comforting dish is a must-try for any visitor.
2. “Lechon Asado”: For pork lovers, the Lechon Asado is a culinary delight. Succulent marinated roasted pork is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender meat with a crispy and flavorful skin. Served with black beans, rice, and yuca, this dish showcases the authentic flavors of Cuba and is sure to satisfy any craving.
3. “Tres Leches Cake”: To end your meal on a sweet note, indulge in Mambos Cuban Cafe’s Tres Leches Cake. This luscious dessert is a sponge cake soaked in a combination of three milks—condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. Topped with a creamy frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s a decadent treat that will transport you straight to the streets of Havana.
Customer Reviews:
“Mambos Cuban Cafe is a hidden gem in Jacksonville! The flavors of their Cuban Sandwich are incredible—the bread is perfectly crispy, and the combination of pork, ham, cheese, and pickles is simply divine. The ropa vieja is also outstanding, and the service is warm and friendly.”
“I visited Mambos Cuban Cafe and was blown away by their Lechon Asado. The pork was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the accompanying black beans and rice were the perfect complement. The restaurant has an authentic and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff made me feel like family.”
“If you’re craving authentic Cuban cuisine, Mambos Cuban Cafe is the place to go. Their Tres Leches Cake is heavenly, and the flavors of their dishes are spot-on. The atmosphere is cozy, and you can tell that the restaurant is run with love and passion. Highly recommended!”
Mambos Cuban Cafe is undeniably one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants, offering an authentic taste of Cuba in a warm and inviting setting. As a family-owned and operated establishment, they take pride in serving up traditional Cuban dishes that transport diners to the streets of Havana. They are another of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
From their signature Cuban Sandwich to the flavorful Ropa Vieja and the indulgent Tres Leches Cake, every dish at Mambos Cuban Cafe showcases the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine. If you’re looking for a true Cuban dining experience, Mambos Cuban Cafe is a must-visit destination in Jacksonville. They deserve to be ranked high among the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
4) V Pizza
V Pizza is one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants located in a lively area of the city. This family-owned and operated pizzeria brings a taste of Italy to Jacksonville with its authentic and flavorful creations.
The signature food at V Pizza is their Neapolitan-style pizza. Prepared with a thin and chewy crust, the pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a delightful char and a perfectly crisp exterior. Topped with high-quality ingredients and traditional Italian flavors, V Pizza’s Neapolitan-style pizza is a true standout.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Margherita Pizza”: The Margherita Pizza at V Pizza is a classic that never fails to impress. With a simple yet flavorful combination of San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, this pizza pays homage to its Neapolitan roots. Each bite is a burst of authentic Italian flavors.
2. “Prosciutto e Rucola Pizza”: This mouthwatering pizza combines the savory and salty flavors of prosciutto with the peppery bite of arugula. Topped with creamy mozzarella cheese, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and a hint of balsamic glaze, this pizza strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness.
3. “Diavola Pizza”: For those who crave a bit of spice, the Diavola Pizza is the perfect choice. This fiery creation features spicy salami, roasted red peppers, crushed red pepper flakes, and a touch of honey to balance the heat. With every bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of flavors that will awaken your taste buds.
Customer Reviews:
“V Pizza is a true gem in Jacksonville! The authentic Neapolitan-style pizza is the best in town. The Margherita Pizza is my favorite—it’s simple yet bursting with flavor. The staff is friendly, and the cozy atmosphere makes you feel like you’re in a traditional Italian pizzeria.”
“I can’t get enough of the Prosciutto e Rucola Pizza at V Pizza. The combination of prosciutto and arugula is heavenly, and the balsamic glaze adds a delightful tang. The pizza crust is perfectly chewy, and the service is always prompt and friendly. Highly recommended!”
“V Pizza is hands down my go-to spot for pizza in Jacksonville. The Diavola Pizza is my absolute favorite—the spiciness of the salami is addictive. The quality of the ingredients is top-notch, and you can taste the authenticity in every bite. It’s truly one of the great hole-in-the-wall restaurants in the city.”
V Pizza is an exceptional Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurant that brings a taste of Italy to the city. As a family-owned and operated pizzeria, they serve up authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional flavors. They are one of the leading Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
From their classic Margherita Pizza to the bold and fiery Diavola Pizza, every bite at V Pizza is a flavorful journey to Italy. If you’re seeking a genuine and mouthwatering pizza experience, V Pizza is a must-visit destination in Jacksonville. They have earned the rank of being one of the leading Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
5) Mossfire Grill
Mossfire Grill is one of the great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants nestled in a vibrant area of the city. This family-owned and operated establishment offers a unique dining experience with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The signature food at Mossfire Grill is their mouthwatering Smoked Gouda Grits. This Southern-inspired dish features creamy stone-ground grits infused with the rich and smoky flavor of Gouda cheese. Topped with a medley of sautéed vegetables and a drizzle of tangy barbecue sauce, these grits are a true comfort food delight.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Blackened Shrimp Tacos”: The Blackened Shrimp Tacos at Mossfire Grill are a crowd favorite. Plump and succulent shrimp are seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, blackened to perfection, and served in warm tortillas. Topped with tangy slaw, fresh avocado, and a drizzle of cilantro-lime crema, these tacos offer a burst of bold flavors.
2. “Smokehouse Burger”: The Smokehouse Burger is a must-try for burger enthusiasts. This hearty creation features a juicy beef patty grilled to perfection and topped with smoky bacon, melted cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and tangy barbecue sauce. Served on a toasted brioche bun, it’s a flavorful and satisfying choice for meat lovers.
3. “Jamaican Jerk Chicken”: For those craving a taste of the Caribbean, the Jamaican Jerk Chicken is a fantastic option. Tender chicken marinated in a blend of Jamaican spices, including scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, and thyme, is grilled to juicy perfection. Served with rice and peas, this dish delivers a spicy and aromatic flavor experience.
Customer Reviews:
“Mossfire Grill is a hidden gem in Jacksonville! The Smoked Gouda Grits are absolutely divine—the creamy texture and smoky flavor make them unforgettable. The Blackened Shrimp Tacos are bursting with flavor, and the service is friendly and attentive. It’s truly one of the great hole-in-the-wall restaurants in the city.”
“I stumbled upon Mossfire Grill while exploring Jacksonville, and I’m so glad I did! The Smokehouse Burger was one of the best burgers I’ve ever had—the combination of flavors was outstanding. The Jamaican Jerk Chicken was spicy and delicious, transporting me to the Caribbean. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.”
“Mossfire Grill is a must-visit for anyone looking for unique and flavorful dishes. The attention to detail in their food is evident—the Smoked Gouda Grits were a revelation. The Blackened Shrimp Tacos were fresh and full of zesty flavors, and the Jamaican Jerk Chicken had the perfect level of heat. It’s definitely one of the great hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Jacksonville.”
Mossfire Grill is an exceptional Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurant, offering a delightful dining experience in a vibrant setting. As a family-owned and operated establishment, they take pride in serving up delicious and unique dishes that cater to various tastes. They are one of the Leading Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
From their signature Smoked Gouda Grits to the bold flavors of the Blackened Shrimp Tacos and the Caribbean flair of the Jamaican Jerk Chicken, Mossfire Grill delivers a memorable culinary journey. If you’re seeking a cozy atmosphere and incredible flavors, Mossfire Grill is a must-try destination among the great hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Jacksonville. They can definitely be counted among the Leading Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
It’s important to note that these five Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants are just the tip of the iceberg. Jacksonville is brimming with numerous other hole-in-the-wall establishments waiting to be discovered. Each one offers its own culinary surprises and hidden treasures, showcasing the diverse flavors and cultures that make Jacksonville’s dining scene so vibrant. This is why these are some of the favorite Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants that are waiting for you to discover them.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor seeking an authentic taste of Jacksonville, venture off the beaten path and explore the city’s many other hole-in-the-wall restaurants. So go forth and embark on your own gastronomic adventure, as there are plenty more great Jacksonville hole-in-the-wall restaurants waiting to be savored and celebrated.
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