St. Johns, Florida, is more than just a beautiful place to live and visit — it’s also a fantastic spot for foodies! Whether you’re craving sizzling steaks, coastal seafood, international cuisine, or a classic brunch, this Northeast Florida town has something to satisfy every craving. Here’s a roundup of 13 incredible restaurants in St Johns that should definitely be on your radar.
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Julington Creek Fish House & Oyster Bar
Seafood lovers, rejoice! Julington Creek Fish House & Oyster Bar is our go-to spot for a fresh catch-focused menu and relaxed coastal vibes. The topped oysters are always a highlight—Southern oyster Rockefeller, fish house charbroiled, or chef’s choice—and the blackened grouper or seafood platter offers hearty, flavorful options for dinner.
Sit on the outdoor patio for a laid-back evening, ideal for sunny Florida days, and catch some live music. As a bonus, this restaurant also has a sushi menu.
The best starter is house-made hush puppies and jam. Don’t miss the lip-smacking Lobster Bisque. If you go on Tuesdays, enjoy Endless Shrimp with one house-made side for $19.99.
The Loop
A casual American eatery, The Loop offers burgers, pizza, and salads in a modern diner-style setting with counter service. The burgers are juicy, the pinsas and pizzas are loaded with toppings, and the milkshakes are worth every calorie. You’ll also find crisp salads on the menu.
My favorite item is the mushroom Swiss burger with warm blue cheese chips.
The Loop is family-friendly, fast, and consistent—great for a weeknight bite and easily one of the most popular restaurants in St Johns. I’d also like to brag for a minute about how eye-catching the decor is. Well done!
Fun Fact: There are 9 locations of The Loop around the greater Jacksonville area.
Thirty minutes south is St. Augustine. Here are our favorite places to grab a bite there.
1928 Cuban Bistro
Step into the 1928 Cuban Bistro for a taste of Havana in the heart of St. Johns. The authentic Cuban sandwiches are packed with flavor, and the empanadas are the perfect grab-and-go snack.
For a complete experience, pair your meal with a rich Cuban coffee (the cortadito is my go-to) or a sweet guava pastry. Croquetas, medianoche (A Cuban on sweeter bread) sandwich, and papa rellena (potato balls) are delicious regardless of the time of day.
Peppers Cocina
Peppers Cocina Mexicana & Tequila Bar brings Tex-Mex flair to St. Johns with tacos, burritos, and quesadillas that burst with bold spices. Their fajitas come sizzling hot, and the chips and homemade queso are irresistible. You’ll also find unique specials and tasty margaritas that keep the locals coming back for more, though the upbeat vibe and upscale decor do that as well.
Our faves? Quesa Birria Tacos, Enchiladas de Mole, and Sizzling Fajitas (pick 3– with chicken, shrimp, and steak). Save room for Tres Leches or churros.
Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday until 3:00 pm. Peppers also has a location at Fernandina Beach.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill
You’ll love The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill if your jam is fresh, fast, and flavorful. This counter-service spot delivers classic Greek dishes in generous portions. Think lamb gyros, grilled chicken souvlaki, creamy hummus, and feta-covered salads. It’s ideal for a quick lunch or casual dinner without skimping on flavor.
I never miss getting the Four Dip Combo (usually hummus, tzatziki, Tirokafteri (creamy Greek feta with roasted peppers), and Melitzanosalata (roasted eggplant puree with garlic) and the Great Greek Gyro.
Kinya Ramen
For something cozy and craveable, check out Kinya Ramen, our go-to meal to enjoy at home. This sleek noodle bar delivers steaming bowls of ramen packed with rich broths, tender meats, and perfectly cooked noodles. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a modern twist.
The spicy tonkotsu (fish cake, black mushroom, bamboo shoots, red pickled ginger, and a seasoned boiled egg) and miso ramen are standout dishes. You can also skip ramen and try the chicken hibachi or pork Chashu bowl.
Canopy Road Cafe
A beloved Florida breakfast and lunch chain, Canopy Road Cafe delivers comfort food done right. Their omelets and pancakes are massive, and the breakfast skillets are the definition of hearty.
For a satisfying start to your day, try their signature sweet potato pancakes with candied pecans or the Goat in the Garden rolled omelet. Please note: gluten-free pancakes and toast are available upon request.
The laid-back, retro diner feel adds to the charm, and it’s a great place to fuel up before a busy day. This eatery also serves Smashburgers, salads, and sandwiches for lunch.
Serafina’s Pizzeria
Serafina’s, a cozy family-owned neighborhood pizzeria, has built a loyal following with its New York-style pizzas and Italian-American fare. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pepperoni slice, a meatball sub, a calzone, or a hearty pasta dish, you’ll find comfort food in every bite.
Slices are popular at Serafina’s —choose from menu creations (pepperoni, Sicilian, Grandma Margherita, Buffalo Chicken, etc.) or add your own toppings for .75 cents each.
Jana Steakhouse
For an elevated hibachi-style dining experience, Jana Steakhouse delivers perfectly seared steaks, specialty sushi rolls, and fine wines in a stylish, upscale setting. It’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or treat yourself.
At lunch, the Teppanyaki special includes soup, salad, assorted vegetables, and fried rice with your main ingredient (chicken, steak, shrimp, salmon, scallops, or vegetables). I highly recommend the filet mignon—it’s a noticeable step above the typical steak quality you’d expect at a Japanese steakhouse.
Jana Steakhouse is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
Hurricane Grill & Wings
Hurricane Grill & Wings is a favorite for its laid-back, beachy vibe, award-winning wings, and welcoming atmosphere for sports fans and casual diners. Their bold wing flavors—like roasted garlic inferno and fire and ice—pair perfectly with an ice-cold drink on the patio.
The menu offers plenty beyond wings, too, including chicken tenders, burgers, nachos, fish and chips, and tacos. As much as I love the wings, my go-to order is the Beach Bowl—it’s a must-try! And don’t miss the garlic parmesan broccoli on the side—it’s seriously delicious.
Keke’s Breakfast Café
Keke’s takes breakfast and lunch seriously. With oversized waffles, creative pancake creations, and savory options like Benedicts and scrambles, there’s no way to leave hungry. The clean, bright interior and fast service make it a hit with families and brunch-goers.
We first discovered this restaurant in Orlando a decade ago, and we love watching it grow and gain more followers. Keke’s is all about starting your day on a high (and filling) note.
Ember & Iron
A local favorite for wood-fired flavors and refined Southern comfort food, Ember & Iron brings rustic elegance to the St. Johns dining scene. The steaks and chops are cooked perfectly over an open flame, giving each dish a smoky, delicious flavor.
Whether you indulge in the Ribeye & Frites or try the house steak burger topped with Tillamook cheddar and bacon jam, you’ll appreciate the attention to detail. Don’t skip the Logan Turnpike Mill cast-iron skillet cornbread (with whipped honey butter and pepper jelly) or the rotating seasonal cocktails.
Ember & Iron is also a great upscale meal to get for takeout.
Island Wing Company
Island Wing Company puts a tropical spin on the traditional wing joint. Their menu focuses on baked — not fried — wings and a wide selection of yummy sauces to accompany them. They are loaded and 60% lower in fat and calories!
Choose sauces like jerk spice (dry), mango habanero, sweet Hawaiian BBQ, and dips like wasabi ranch and bleu cheese. Island Wing Company also offers juicy burgers, tacos, bowls, and cold drinks, perfect for game day or happy hour.
Vegetarians, don’t worry. This establishment offers veggie wings for those wanting to be meat-free.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a lifelong local or just visiting, these St. Johns restaurants showcase the area’s diverse and growing food scene. From early morning breakfasts to indulgent dinners and everything in between, there’s no shortage of delicious spots to explore.