Jacksonville Magazine, April 2021, Legal Eagles

LEGAL EAGLES In trouble with the law?

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FIVE THINGS

FIVE

THINGS WE

1

LOVE right now

Happy Thoughts Muralist Jason Tetlak recently finished painting a new mural atop the River Park Place office building, adjacent to I-95 and the Fuller Warren Bridge. The artwork is designed to be a “welcome” sign to passing motorists and features scenes of Northeast Florida wildlife and St. Johns River ecosystem. “Bright colors have a way of affecting people in a positive way and I hope that putting an eye-catching design in an unusual place will add a moment of happiness,” says the artist. Thanks, Jason.

2

Get Quackin’

Park It

Earlier this year, the new 8.5acre Mussallem Beachfront Park opened for public use. The passive park is wedged between the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway along Hwy. A1A, in Vilano Beach. Preserving the land is especially important because it is a frequent nesting location for sea turtles. It is named for Abraham Mussallem, who once owned the property and built the Villa Zorayda in Downtown St. Augustine. There’s free parking, beach access and restrooms.

4

Play Ball!

Baseball season is nearly here and the Jumbo Shrimp, newly named the AAA affiliate of the Major League’s Miami Marlins, host several home games in May (4-9 and 25-30), most starting at 7 PM. Single game tickets at the gate range from $7 to $27. Hot dogs, peanuts and ice cold beer are extra.

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The 7th annual Rubber Ducky Regatta takes place Sunday, May 16.

The duckies will be dropped from the north side of the Palm Valley Bridge and “race” to the finish line opposite the Palm Valley Outdoors Bar & Grill. Ducks cost $5 apiece, or go big with a “Quacks Galore” package—25 ducks for $100. Prizes include gift cards and Southwest Airlines tickets. Proceeds benefit Learn to Read of St. Johns County and the Rotary Club of Ponte Vedra.

5

Music to My Ears The new Jax River Jams concert series presented by VyStar Credit

Union kicks off with four dates this month, April 8, 15, 22 and 29. Concerts are free, start at 6 PM, and are held at Riverfront Plaza, the Downtown park space where the Landing used to stand. An arts market, food trucks and local craft beer and spirits complete the setting. u

St. Augustine

GUSTI U A N T.

FO

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Food + Wine Festival

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+ W INE FE

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May 6 – 9, 2021 The Culinary Event on Florida’s Historic Coast TICKETS ON SALE NOW! StAugustineFoodAndWineFestival.com Thank You to Our Partners!

St Aug Food Wine Festival jmAPR21.indd 19

Thank You to Our Media Partners!

3/29/21 11:09 AM

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PICTURE PAWFECT Sponsored by

Picture Pawfect MABEL Staffordshire Mix, 5 years old

“Mabel was rescued from a junk yard when she was about four months old,” says her owner Anna Howard. “A rescue group brought her to an adoption event at Petco and my husband knew immediately that she was our girl!” Mabel likes to climb up and stand on the table, even once during a card game at a friend’s house. She also enjoys sniffing car bumpers. Her favorite foods? Beets and cantaloupe. Peas are pretty good, too.

MEOWTH Short Hair Tabby, 4 months old

“My older cat, Mo-Mo, did not like Meowth at all, at first.

It took eight days for them to sleep together with us,” recalls owner Darian Goode. “He is a polydactyl cat, meaning he has more than the usual number of toes on his front paws.”

Among Meowth’s favorite things are his catnip mouse, Fancy Feast and sitting on the window sill. He loves playing with plants, too. But that’s a no-no in the house and gets him into trouble.

WANT TO SEE YOUR BELOVED ANIMAL IN JAX MAG? Nominations for Picture Pawfect pets can be made via our website, under the heading Reader Polls. Previously featured Picture Pawfect pets may be viewed there, too.

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COLEY Mini Australian Shepherd, 2 years old

“One of Coley’s favorite things to do is howl,” says owner Alexis Zoller. “What’s funny though, is that he will only do it if someone does it first. If I howl, he’s quick to chime in, too.

Before you know it, everyone in the house is howling like a pack of wolves.” Shepherds like to run so a day at the beach and some time with his frisbee is Coley’s idea of heaven, especially if he can chew a few ice cubes afterward. @COLEYTHEAUSSIE

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PUT A RING ON IT Sponsored by

Put a Ring on It MELISSA & THATCHER

“Thatcher and I met in college and have been together for about six years,” recalls Melissa. “He told me we were going to a nice dinner that night. When we parked near Friendship Fountain, I felt like something was up. He told me we were taking the ‘scenic route.’ When he got down on one knee, I yelled, ‘I knew it!’ It was still a surprise to me because of the ring… it’s perfect. He sure did well and we cannot wait to get married in 2022.

PHOTO BY YAZI DAVIS

Recently engaged? Jacksonville Magazine is looking for unique proposal stories with photos.

Details posted at JacksonvilleMag.com. Or email mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

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GET THE LOOK 14k white gold solitaire engagement ring featuring a round brilliant cut diamond.

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DATEBOOK

datebook

In Real Life Comedy Tour APRIL 17 • 7 PM • VYSTAR VETERANS MEMORIAL ARENA Actor and comedian Mike Epps is poised to bring laughs to Jax once again with special guest host, Sommore, Joining them are Michael Blackson, DC Young Fly and Kountry Wayne. $59-$125.

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DATEBOOK

Smoke on the Mountain THROUGH APRIL 25

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Cajun Fest with Flow Tribe

The Sanders Family Singers will be providing an uplifting evenin’ of singin’ and sharin’ at the country’s oldest running dining theater.

The show features plenty of gospel favorites including “Jesus is Mine’’ and “I’ll Fly Away.”

The down-home menu is highlighted by pan-seared trout, fried center-cut pork chops and pot pie. $45-$73.

MAY 8 • 4 - 10 PM

Railyard Cornhole Tourney MAY 1 • NOON

Bold City Brewery If you have a passion for cornhole and enjoy drinking beer (and who doesn’t, right?), then you may want to consider competing in this multi-stop tournament that starts at Lemonstreet and takes competitors to other local craft breweries where teams of two or four battle it out by tossing beanbags. The tourney’s winner is crowned at evening’s end at Tabula Rasa Brewing, $42.

James Weldon Johnson Park Let the good times roll! Head out to the heart of Downtown to soak in the flavors and sounds of Louisiana. The park will be brimming with food trucks dishing out Cajun and Creole eats while Flow Tribe keeps toes tappin’ with its brand of Cuban-Carribean music. Free.

Cody Johnson MAY 1 • 6:30 PM • The Amp Country music’s Cody Johnson rides into Northeast Florida for a set of ‘90s inspired songs. Johnson is known for changing his playlists based on audience feedback, meaning no two concerts are the same. Doors open at 5 PM, $32.50-$52.50.

Riverside Avondale Preservation Garden Tour MAY 8 • 10 AM - 5 PM

Riverside Avondale Neighborhood

Jacksonville International Auto Show MAY 7-9

Prime Osborn Convention Center Head out to the Prime Osborn to browse hundreds of the latest model vehicles that fall under most everyone’s budget—and all under one roof. The car and truck extravaganza features nearly all major domestic and import brands. And representatives on site will be happy to reserve one for you to take home. Doors open at noon May 7, 10 AM on May 8-9. $5-$12.

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Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival

46th annual fundraising self-guided tour of local properties returns, hosted by Riverside Avondale Preservation. $10

MAY 8 • 1 PM

Waves of Gray 5K

Fernandina Beach

MAY 8 • 8 AM

JB Scott’s Swingin’ Allstars featuring vocalist Lisa Kelly present an evening of Chicago Swing/New Orleans-style jazz as part of the annual Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival.

The band has a versatile repertoire that includes tributes to classics from the 1920s, ‘30s and ‘40s. Free.

Seawalk Pavilion May is Brain Cancer/Tumor Awareness month and the city of Jacksonville Beach is hosting a 5K walk and run to raise money for the cause. Participants are encouraged to wear gray as they proceed down the sand beginning at the Jax Beach Pier. $25.

DATEBOOK

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Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance MAY 20-23

Golf Club of Amelia Island Now in its third decade, one of the top auto events in the world featuring four days of seminars, driving excursions, auctions, dinners and a display of hundreds of rare vehicles. Prices vary.

Historic Springfield Tour of Homes & Gardens MAY 15 & 16 • NOON - 5 PM

Springfield Neighborhood Annual self-guided tour of beautiful houses features a new plan this year, with the addition of neighborhood gardens. Hosted by Springfield Preservation & Revitalization.

AMELIA ISLAND: DEREMER STUDIOS; SPORTING FASHION: BRIAN DAVIS

St. Augustine VegFest MAY 15 • 10 AM - 2 PM

World Golf Hall of Fame Among the goals of VegFest is to educate our community about plant-based lifestyles and how they contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world. Come hungry and enjoy live demonstrations, grab a free swag bag, and maybe even sit in on a yoga session. Free.

Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls from 1800 to 1960 OPENING MAY 22

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens “Sporting Fashion” is said to be the first exhibition to explore the evolution of women’s sporting attire in Western fashion over a 160-year period. With nearly 70 accessorized ensembles and a selection of sport-related gear and ephemera, there’s plenty of inspiration to spice up one’s next tennis outfit or maybe those old yoga pants.. u JACKSONVILLEMAG.COM

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ZISSER FAMILY LAW L to R: Joseph Alvarez, Lynn Salvatore, Elliot Zisser, Carolyn Zisser, Jonathan Zisser, Katherine Johnson SAVE THE DATE

F

ounded by distinguished Family Law pioneers, Zisser Family Law is consistently among the most recognized and respected law firms in Northeast Florida. In over four decades of real-life Family Law experience, the Zisser name has become synonymous with the highest standards of care and focus. Extensive knowledge and skillful strategies create a roadmap for achieving the most desirable outcomes.

The firm offers traditional litigation or a more collaborative process for Family Law and is adept at related Criminal Law issues. A diverse practice of people and expertise, the Zisser family of lawyers has six accomplished attorneys equipped to handle the simplest to the most complex situations.

Among them is a Board Certified Marital and Family Law attorney, two specially trained Collaborative lawyers and a former assistant public defender—all masterful at the issues that impact the families they serve.

Most recently, three of the firm’s lawyers earned coveted distinctions in Gregory White Smith and Steven Naifeh’s annual publication, The Best Lawyers in America. Elliot Zisser was again acknowledged as one of the “Best Lawyers in America” for 2021, an honor indicative of his longevity and esteem in the field of law. Katherine Johnson and Joe Alvarez were both nominated and recognized by their peers as “Ones to Watch.”

Zisser Family Law. Not a standard practice, just the highest standards.® Downtown: 121 West Forsyth St., Suite 1000, Jacksonville, FL 32202 The Beaches: Ocean Office Plaza, 302 Third St., Suite 6, Jacksonville, FL 32266 904.353.3222 | www.zisserfamilylaw.com AD VER TISIN G FEATU RE

HOT SEATS BLACK SHEEP RESTAURANT Situated in Five Points, Black Sheep’s menu ranges from delicate dishes like smoked trout rillettes to staples of the American South like their gluten-free Wild Georgia Shrimp & Grits. Black Sheep boasts one of the best rooftops in the city, making sipping a cocktail from their rooftop bar a must. 1534 Oak St., Five Points, Riverside (380-3091, blacksheep5points. com). L, D, SB, $$.

BLACKSTONE GRILLE In what is described as Modern American fusion, Blackstone blends a little taste from everywhere with menu items like grilled Thai steak, pan-seared sea scallops, curry beef empanadas and lobster ravioli. Their interior provides a trendy bistro-style setting. 112 Bartram Oaks Walk, Fruit Cove (287-0766; blackstone-grille.com). L, D, $$$.

BLUE BAMBOO This restaurant (recently relocated after a decade on the Southside) 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 (646-1478; bluebamboojacksonville.com). L, D, $$.

BLUE ORCHID Blue Orchid Thai serves authentic Thai dishes 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 BBQ 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;

cakes, and eggs—along with more modern faves, like avocado toast and gluten-free French toast.

For lunch, fill up on a Dagwood sandwich or black Angus burger. 12525 Philips Hwy., #201, Bayard (379-8928; canopyroadcafe.com). B, L, $$.

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 fresh seafood and feature a conditioned wine room with ample variety. 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (262-0006; chophouse13.com). L,D, $$$.

COASTAL WINE MARKET & TASTING ROOM A standout in Nocatee’s growing collection of dining spots and shops, the interior of Coastal Wine Market is dressed in warm woods, hightop tables and more bottles of reds, whites and sparkling wines than one could count. The concise menu bursts with creative bites such as baked goat cheese, French onion soup, meatballs marinara, angus sirloin sliders and blackened shrimp crostini with mango chutney. Plus artisan cheeses and charcuterie. Wines sold by the glass, bottle and three-tasting flight. 641 Crosswater Pkwy., Suite B, Nocatee Town Center (395-3520, coastalwinemarket.com). D, $$.

porch; a rooftop garden; and an upstairs parlor. 303 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (372-4507; coop303.com).

L, D, $$.

COSTA BRAVA Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Costa Brava 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. Entrees are highlighted by crab-crusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorn-crusted short ribs. Save room for the spiced chocolate cake or a slice of olive oil lemon cake. Be sure to enjoy cocktails in the Cobalt Lounge. Private dining room available. 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine (819-6018, KesslerCollection.com/ costa-brava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.

CRUISERS GRILL For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for a 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, $.

COOP 303

ELEVEN SOUTH BISTRO

Coop 303 is known for its regional cuisine featuring smoked heritage pork belly, beef short ribs and grilled pork chop. But the Beaches Town Center restaurant also features local seafood dishes and is home to the Impossible Burger. Coop also has plenty of spots to hang out and sip their signature cocktails: community tables; alcove booths; a front

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, $$$$.

bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.

BREW FIVE POINTS After opening in 2014 as a craft beer and espresso bar with artisan toast options, Brew Five Points realized customers wanted more. Food manager Calli Marie Webb created a menu featuring breakfast favorites with a twist. The shop offers flavored waffles, quiche, breakfast tacos, sandwiches, salad and sweets to accompany a variety of toasts with toppings including avocado, hummus and chocolate-pecan spread. 1024 Park St., Five Points (3745789). B, L, SB, $.

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 compliments their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (2802299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.

CANOPY ROAD CAFE Breakfast is the draw at this Tallahassee-based chain, which offers all the standard fare—oatmeal, pan-

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Coop 303

HOT SEATS THE FISH COMPANY With a crowded raw bar, oyster specials Monday-Saturday, 2-7 PM, and a wide variety of fresh, 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; thefishcojax.com). L, D. $$$.

FLYING IGUANA TAQUERIA & TEQUILA BAR As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach, 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, $$

THE FRENCH PANTRY Regulars know to come early.

The line often forms even before the doors open. Expect items like shrimp and leek bruschetta, French dip sandwiches and delicious cakes and cookies. 6301 Powers Ave., Southside (730-8696). L, $.

GOOD DOUGH From-scratch, old-fashioned donuts in flavors like fluffernutter and coffee toffee are the focus at this hip donut shop, where lines have been known to snake out the door on weekends. A few savory options—just trust us and try the fried chicken doughwich—make it an indulgent lunch choice, too.

1636 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (527-1875). B, L, SB, $.

HARRY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILLE One of the original tenants of the Jacksonville Landing, Harry’s now resides at 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.

46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedonharrys.com).

L, D, $$.

JJ’S BISTRO DE PARIS With delicious French food, a handpainted French mural, and a replica of the Eiffel Tower, custom-

ers feel as if they are relaxing at a bistro in Paris. With a separate, yet just as talented Pastry Chef, you will find yourself indulging in the finest French desserts and pastries such as eclairs and fruit tarts. This one-of-a-kind restaurant offers the best of France in food, wine, and desserts. 7643 Gate Pkwy.,

Happy at Home

Jacksonville (996-7557; jjbistro.com/ gateparkway). L, D, $$$.

JJ’S LIBERTY BISTRO Open since 1994, JJ’s Liberty Bistro is a fine dining destination offering one of the largest selections of wine in Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts frequent wine dinners featuring some of the largest wine producers around the world, including Chateau L’Angelus, Veuve Clicquot, Plumpjack. You’ll find hundreds of different bottles in our retail store, as well as the finest cheeses, caviars, and homemade desserts made by our own Pastry Chef. Stop by our ice cream and chocolate/ macaron shop located just next door. 330 A1A N., Suite 209, Ponte

2120 3rd Street Jacksonville Beach, FL

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, sundried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh-outof-the oven pastries, macaron and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappucino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio.

9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparisjax.com).

B, L, $.

M SHACK Specializing in burgers made from hormone-free freshly ground beef, M Shack was voted as the best “Gourmet Burger” in our Best In Jax issue. Their menu also includes burger joint favorites such as all-beef hot dogs, fries, sweet potato tots, and handspun shakes.

St. Johns Town Center (642-5000; mshackburgers.com); 299 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-2599); 641 Crosswater Pkwy., Nocatee (395-3575). L, D, $.

ASK US ABOUT SPECIAL ORDERS FOR THANK YOU NOTES, GREETING CARDS, WEDDING INVITATIONS, HISTORICAL MAPS, NEIGHBORHOOD PRINTS & MORE!

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

EAT REVIEW WIN

Have an opinion to share? Of course you do.

Restaurant Name____________________________________________

__________________________________________________________ Restaurant Location__________________________________________

__________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Your Review________________________________________________

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HOT SEATS RIVER & POST

TAVERNA

Rooftop bars are popping up all over Northeast Florida. Arguably one of the best can be enjoyed at River & Post. Open since 2017, the restaurant specializes in upscale American fare—seared hanger steak, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon almondine. Small bites, charcuterie, sushi rolls and flatbreads are available on the rooftop. 1000 Riverside Ave., Riverside (575-

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.,

2366; riverandpostjax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

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 seeks to offer high-end, threecourse meals. The restaurant strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort by serving decadent menu items like Halibut Meunière while maintaining exceptional service and a quaint atmosphere. 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (619-0861; ruesaintmarc.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

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SALT LIFE FOOD SHACK __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Name_____________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________ Phone____________________________________________________ Email_____________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ City______________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________ Zip_______________________________________________________

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Fill out the form here or online at jacksonvillemag.com Mailing Address: 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204

“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 seafood-heavy menu designed to appeal to all locals and beach-lovers who enter, ranging from tuna poke bowls to beer-can chicken. 1018 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (372-4456; saltlifefoodshack.com); 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. L, D, $$.

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. They also host a weekend brunch including breakfast burritos and Chilaquiles that rival any others in town.

809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.com). L, D, $$.

San Marco (398-3005; taverna.restaurant).

TOWN HALL Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches, such as outlets at high-top tables in the bar area.

2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (3980726; townhalljax.com). D, SB, $$$.

V PIZZA With the goal of bringing true Neapolitan pizza to Jacksonville, V Pizza isn’t afraid to pave a new path, using dry-aged Italian meats, San Marzano tomatoes, 00 wheat flour, and fresh mozzarella made from the milk of water buffalo. Beyond pies, V’s chicken wings have won Best in Jax multiple years in a row—just be wary of the spice that comes with Calabrian chili.

1406 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (527-1511; vpizza.com); 528 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (853-6633); 12601 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (647-9424). L, D, $$.

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. Additional draws are its open kitchen concept and panoramic views. 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 specialties include beer-battered fried grouper, north-ofthe-border steamed snow crab legs, shrimp boil, and all-you-can-eat 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.

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