Fernandina Beach isn’t just about the beautiful beaches and historic charm; it’s also a fantastic place to eat! From casual seafood shacks to upscale dining experiences, there’s something for every palate. You’ll find a delightful mix of local flavors and international influences that make the dining scene truly special.
If you’re wondering where to grab the best bite, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through some of the top restaurants Fernandina Beach has to offer, helping both visitors and locals make the most delicious choices.
Fernandina Beach vs. Amelia Island: What’s the difference?
You’ll often see the names “Fernandina Beach” and “Amelia Island” used together, sometimes interchangeably. So, let’s clear up any confusion.
Fernandina Beach is a city on Amelia Island. Amelia Island is the larger landmass. Think of it like this: Fernandina Beach is a neighborhood, and Amelia Island is the town it’s in.
This list mainly focuses on restaurants actually in Fernandina Beach.
Exploring Fernandina Beach Restaurants by Cuisine and Ambiance
Fernandina Beach has a wide range of restaurants, from upscale dining to casual burger joints. Here are a few local favorites:
Lunch and Dinner Delights
- Wicked Bao: If you’re craving Asian street food, Wicked Bao is a great place to start. They have vegetarian and gluten-free options, and the staff is known for providing personal service.
- España Restaurant & Tapas: For authentic Spanish cuisine, look no further than España. They serve traditional dishes like paella and a variety of tapas.
- Salty Pelican Bar & Grill: You can’t go wrong with fresh seafood and Southern coastal cuisine, especially when you can enjoy it with waterfront views. The Salty Pelican is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Casual Dining Options
- Tasty’s Fresh Burgers: Sometimes, you just want a classic burger, fries, and milkshake. Tasty’s delivers on all fronts with their American comfort food.
- Arte Pizza: If you love Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza and artisan pasta, Arte Pizza is a must-try. They also have gluten-free options, so everyone can enjoy a slice.
Drinks, breweries, and sweet treats
Fernandina Beach has plenty to offer when you’re looking for a quick bite, a refreshing drink, or a sweet treat.
Imbibing local flavors
- Marlin & Barrel Distillery is the place to sample locally made liquors and learn about the process of making spirits.
- The Tavern by AIBC offers a wide selection of craft beers and gastropub fare, including appetizers and full meals.
- Hofbrau Amelia Beer Garden serves German food and beers in a festive Biergarten setting.
Coffee and sweets
- Amelia Island Coffee is a classic coffee shop that also serves full breakfasts—perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
- Aloha Bagel & Bakery sells bagels, sandwiches, and other treats in a Hawaiian-themed space.
- DeNucci’s Icecream is a colorful ice cream parlor with a range of frozen treats.
How do rankings work?
Traveler’s Choice Awards, like the ones you see on TripAdvisor, are a pretty good way to find a great restaurant. These awards recognize the top 10% of listings on TripAdvisor, based on reviews from diners.
Restaurants get ranked based on a lot of factors. Page views, ratings, price, type of food, and location all play a role. TripAdvisor also uses its own internal data to help determine the best places to eat.
Rankings can be useful for finding popular restaurants. But remember that these lists may not align with your tastes. Always consider the rankings alongside your personal preferences when choosing a restaurant.
When should you visit Fernandina Beach restaurants?
If you’re looking to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Fernandina Beach is in the spring or fall. The weather is usually pretty mild then, too.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that some of the restaurants around Fernandina Beach will have seasonal menus, highlighting local ingredients when they’re at their peak.
Final Thoughts
Fernandina Beach is a true culinary gem, with a vibrant and diverse dining scene that’s sure to please every palate. From upscale waterfront restaurants to cozy, family-run cafes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor eager to explore the island’s culinary delights, I encourage you to check out the restaurants mentioned in this article and discover some new favorites of your own.
Bon appétit, and enjoy the unique flavors and experiences that Fernandina Beach has to offer!