Enjoy the Best Restaurants & Bars on Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a foodie’s dream come true! From cozy seafood shacks to fancy restaurants with award-winning chefs, we’ve got it all! Every restaurant showcases a perfect blend of Southern comfort, coastal flavors, and international influences. If you’ve still got room for more, enjoy a tasty drink at one of the best bars on Amelia Island.
With every bite, you’ll journey through time and cultures. And the best part–the locals are all about keeping it real. This means that you’ll enjoy fresh ingredients from nearby waters and farms from many restaurants on this list! Many visitors find it easy to plan their entire trip around the unmatched culinary experiences discovered in Amelia Island, so let’s dish about some of the best dining options you must try!
Our Top Picks on Amelia Island
Espana
Step into Espana and you’ll swear you’ve been whisked away to a cozy taverna in Seville. Let chef/owner Roberto impress you with his family recipes. Entree choices include Paella Valencia style, Veal Chops, or Filet Mignon with Cabrales Sauce, shrimp, scallops, and snapper. Grab a glass of homemade sangria, settle in, and let the warm, lively atmosphere transport you across the Atlantic. Featured in our Romance Package.
4.5/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Mon – Sun 5 PM – 10 AM | View Espana’s Menu
David’s
One of the newest arrivals to the Historic District, David’s Restaurant serves fine seafood and meats in an upscale setting. Imagine if your coolest friend who loves to cook opened a classy restaurant – that’s David’s for you. This place is all about big flavors and zero pretension. Menu items include Filet Oscar, Prime Rib, Rack of Lamb, New York Strip Steak Special, Dover Sole, Truffle Scallops, Soft Shell Crabs and Seafood Risotto. Attire: Sophisticated casual in the dining room, casual in the lounge. Featured in our Romance Package.
4.6/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Mon – Sun 5 PM – 9 PM | View Full Menu
Mezcal Spirit of Oaxaca
Experience traditional Mexican recipes in a fine dining experience in beautiful downtown Fernandina Beach. Mezcal Spirit of Oaxaca is about to take your taste buds on a wild ride south of the border. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Mexican joint; it’s a love letter to Oaxacan cuisine. Pair a delicious drink from their expansive drink menu with one of many fares from street tacos and fajitas, to Pork Shank and Seafood Poblano Rice. Mezcal is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Featured in our Romance Package.
4.5/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Tue – Sun | Lunch: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM | Dinner: 4:30 PM – 10 PM | View Full Menu
The Beech Street Grill
Located on the beautiful Amelia Island, The Beech Street Grill boasts of coastal charm and delicious plates. It’s the kind of place where you can show up in flip-flops or your Sunday best and feel right at home. The menu is like a greatest hits album of Southern cuisine, with each dish getting its own modern twist. Dine indoors with nautical touches or on the patio surrounded by stunning greenery and ocean breezes, perfect for any occasion from romantic dinners to gatherings with loved ones. Featured in our Romance Package.
4.5/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Tue – Thur: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10PM | View Full Menu
Casual Dining on Amelia Island
T-Rays Burger Station
For a taste of American comfort, T-Rays Burger Station is the place to be. Enjoy juicy, mouthwatering burgers made from fresh, high-quality ingredients in a charming, retro setting. From breakfast to lunch, you can enjoy everything from pancakes to burgers loaded with toppings. Don’t forget to try their crispy fries and a hot dog for a complete, nostalgic dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, T-Rays offers a hearty, satisfying meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
4.7/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Mon – Fri: 7 AM – 2 PM | Sat: 8 AM – 1 PM | View Full Menu
Amelia Tavern
An in-town gastro brewpub. From the website: “We create beers and plates that add to the American experience, standing atop the classics, poking and prodding, tinkering for the greater good. Our kitchen serves amped-up southern comfort food, where you’ll see enough diversity to be surprised without losing sight of the simple stuff you love. The collection of house brews and craft beer options are curated to match the menu, with plenty of pairings to fit any palette”.
4.4/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Thur: 5 PM – 9 PM | Fri: 5 PM – 10 PM | Sat: 11 AM – 10 PM | Sun: 11 AM – 8 PM | View Menu
Fancy Sushi
If you’re craving sushi with a touch of elegance, Fancy Sushi is your go-to destination on Amelia Island. This stylish restaurant combines traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist, offering an extensive menu that includes everything from delicately crafted sashimi to inventive sushi rolls. The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed, making it perfect for both special occasions and casual dining. With their emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and artistic presentation, Fancy Sushi promises a delightful experience for sushi enthusiasts.
4.4/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Tue – Thu: 11 AM – 9:30 PM | Fri – Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM | Sun: 12 PM – 9:30 PM | View Online Menu
The Patio at 5th and Ash
The Patio in downtown Fernandina Beach offers a delightful open-air dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of coastal living. The menu is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, featuring standout dishes like the crab cake sandwich served with tomato and lemon aioli for lunch or the beautifully crusted pecan salmon garnished with arugula for dinner. The restaurant’s friendly staff and extensive cocktail list, including their signature Patio Margarita, add to the welcoming vibe.
4.7/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: M-Sat 11 am – 9 pm (Closed Tuesday) | Sun Brunch 10 am – 3 pm | View Menu
Downtown Fernandina Beach Restaurants
Twisted Table
Twisted Table is a culinary gem that brings a creative flair to traditional American cuisine. Known for its innovative menu and laid-back vibe, this spot offers a unique dining experience with dishes that put a fresh spin on familiar favorites. From their flavorful appetizers to their delectable main courses, every dish is prepared with a touch of originality. The eclectic decor and friendly service enhance the dining experience, making Twisted Table a great choice for those looking to enjoy a fun, flavorful meal in a relaxed setting.
4.9/5 ⭐️ on Google | 5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Thu & Wed: Closed | Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun: 8 AM – 2:30 PM
Wicked Bao
Prepare your taste buds for a mischievous adventure at Wicked Bao, the culinary rebel of Amelia Island! This isn’t your grandma’s dim sum joint – it’s where traditional Asian cuisine gets a cheeky makeover. With authentic Asian family recipes, noodle bowls, and delicious small plates, Wicked Bao is a great new Asian street food restaurant with a fun and comfortable atmosphere. It’s a little bit off the beaten path – located 3 blocks north of Centre Street – but it’s so worth the 15-minute walk from the inn, even just for the sake sangria of the month.
4.8/5 ⭐️ on Google | 5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Tue – Thu: 4 PM- 8 PM | Fri & Sat: 4 PM – 9 PM | View Full Menu
Cafe Karibo
Inside a charming old building on Third Street, an eclectic palette of colors and furnishings add to the relaxed ambiance that is Café Karibo. A large garden patio shaded by a huge oak tree invites you to a fun and unique culinary experience in a friendly relaxed and very casual setting. This quirky eatery is where island vibes meet comfort food in a delicious collision of flavors! Feast on their famous jerk chicken dishes and pub menu items that will have you talking for days. Enjoy outdoor seating, bask in the vibrant indoor atmosphere, or enjoy your order while you’re relaxing in your vacation rental!
4.5/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Mon: 11 AM – 3 PM | Tue-Thu: 11 AM – 9 PM | Fri-Sat: 11 AM-9:30 PM | Sun: 9 AM – 3 PM | View Menu
Where to Get Fresh Seafood on Amelia Island
Burlingame
One of the newest entrants to the Amelia Island restaurant scene features Chef Chad Livingston’s seasonally inspired, modern American food with a twist. The menu is small by design to focus on a handful of exquisite dishes each season. The vision for Burlingame is simple: great food from fresh ingredients, and unobtrusive service, in a relaxed environment. The atmosphere is casually elegant and comfortable whether dining in the intimate Glass Room, the lively Bar/Lounge, quiet Ethel’s Room or on the Back Deck under the magnolia and live oaks. Open Monday through Saturday 5:30 – 9:30 pm. Closed Sunday (except for some holidays).
4.7/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ Tripadvisor
Hours: Mon – Fri: 5 PM – 9:30 PM | Sat: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM | View Menu
Salty Pelican
A great addition to the casual scene in Fernandina, the Pelican overlooks the river and offers great views of the sunset from the decks – if you’re lucky enough to get a seat. Sunset or not, the casual menu is sure to please with a good mix of burgers, local seafood, oysters, tacos, and craft beers. Multiple large-screen TVs make this a good spot to catch your game. Open all day beginning at noon.
4.5/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 10 PM | View Menu
Timoti’s Seafood Shak
For a taste of local seafood with a relaxed, down-to-earth feel, Timoti’s Seafood Shak is a must-visit. This charming spot is known for its fresh, flavorful seafood dishes served in a casual, friendly environment. The menu features a variety of options, from fish tacos to shrimp and grits, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The laid-back setting and attentive service make it a great place to enjoy a hearty meal while soaking up the island’s friendly atmosphere.
4.7/5 ⭐️ on Google | 4.5/5 ⭐️ on Tripadvisor
Hours: Monday – Saturday 11-8pm | Sun 11-3pm | View Menu
Bars on Amelia Island
Palace Saloon
A trip to Amelia Island is incomplete without visiting the oldest bar in Florida! The Palace Saloon has welcomed weary travelers looking to take a load off since 1903. First known as the “Shipcaptain’s Bar,” it now continues to bring folks together! The tin ceiling, exposed brick walls, and a gorgeous wooden bar give this establishment a lot of character. In addition to ordering a drink or night, you might also be able to see some live music while you’re there!
Green Turtle Tavern
Equal parts funky and friendly the Green Turtle Tavern is the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy a couple of drinks! If you’re lucky, you might catch a local band playing one evening. They pride themselves on using fresh, local fruit and ingredients from their own garden to concoct tasty cocktails. You’ll also find an eclectic mix of locals and visitors with whom you can extract some great ideas on what to do around Amelia Island!
The Decantery
The Decantery is an excellent option for those who might enjoy a sleek, upscale atmosphere combined with historic surroundings. This establishment is a relatively new addition to the downtown scene. They offer wine, craft beer, cocktails, and dessert! Wine dispensing machines allow for a personal selection of type as well as the volume of your pour. It’s an excellent option for before or after dinner. They also offer tastings throughout the week!
PJD’s Beer & Wine Garden
Local character and entrepreneur, Pajama Dave, welcomes locals and visitors alike to his self-ascribed “hole in the wall” beer and wine garden. What used to be an outdoor-only venue now boasts an indoor bar that gives patrons the ability to partake in the ever-changing list of craft brews while also enjoying live music, rain or shine. This local favorite invites island visitors to come in for easy listening, football, and the occasional pop-up beer and yoga session!
Stay at The Fairbanks on Amelia Island
As you explore the diverse and delightful dining scene on Amelia Island, you’ll find that each restaurant offers its own unique charm and culinary adventure. To make your journey even more enjoyable, consider staying at The Fairbanks, a charming local gem known for its exceptional hospitality and prime location. The Fairbanks provides easy access to all these fantastic restaurants and more, allowing you to savor the best of Amelia Island without the hassle of long commutes.
Book your stay at The Fairbanks for a seamless and memorable dining experience, and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere of this beautiful island.