The Top 5 Great Jacksonville Restaurants
As chauffeurs for Jacksonville Black Car Limo, we drive guests all over town — and we see where locals and visitors choose to eat. If you want to impress a client, celebrate a special night, or simply enjoy a great Jacksonville restaurant meal without worrying about parking, here are our top picks for the best restaurants in Jacksonville.
Restaurant Orsay
Why Orsay: Orsay blends classic French technique with Southern ingredients. It’s consistently a go-to for date nights, anniversaries, and special occasions—beautiful plating, balanced flavors, and an attentive staff.
What to try: Start with raw oysters or escargots if you like classic French flavors, then move to scallops or a seasonal entree. Save room for their petit four sampler.
Insider Tips
- Reserve ahead — this place fills up quickly on weekends.
- Ask for a softly lit table if privacy is important for your client.
- We often drop guests at the door so they don’t have to hunt for parking — that’s the chauffeured car service advantage.
Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse
Why Terra Gaucha: For groups and big appetites, a Brazilian rodízio is an experience. Meats are carved tableside; the gourmet hot-and-cold bar complements the mains. It’s lively and memorable.
What to try: Order the full rodízio and start slow with the hot/cold bar. The picanha and lamb cuts are local favorites.
Insider Tips
- Bring a hungry group — the rodízio is best value when you try several meats.
- We recommend arrival a little early to enjoy the salad and hot bar without rush.
- Let your black car chauffeur handle parking — Terra Gaucha has a lot, but it fills fast on weekend nights.
Cowford Chophouse
Why Cowford: This restored, elegant chophouse in downtown Jacksonville brings a polished steakhouse experience — dramatic architecture, a rooftop bar, and reliably excellent steaks and seafood.
What to try: Prime steaks, seafood selections, and the rooftop cocktails pre-dinner if the weather’s good.
Insider Tips
- Ask for a view table when possible — downtown skyline and river views lift the evening.
- Perfect choice for clients attending nearby theater or corporate events.
- We generally drop guests curbside so arrival is smooth and elegant.
Matthew’s Restaurant
Why Matthew’s: A long-standing San Marco favorite, Matthew’s brings seasonal, thoughtfully plated fine dining that’s perfect for anniversaries, business dinners, or when you want a quiet, elevated meal.
What to try: Chef-driven seasonal entrees and seafood specials are a safe, impressive bet.
Insider Tips
- Let the restaurant know if you’re celebrating — they often add a thoughtful flourish.
- Timing matters — plan a relaxed reservation so the kitchen can pace multi-course meals.
Prati Italia (St. Johns Town Center)
Why Prati: Fresh pasta, Roman-style pizza, and a modern Italian menu make Prati a favorite for polished casual dining — ideal for guests staying near Town Center.
What to try: Handmade pastas or a Roman-style pizza and a shared antipasti board.
Insider Tips
- Weeknights are easier — weekends can get busy around Town Center.
- Use your luxury car service for drop-off/pick-up — parking and traffic near the mall get heavy.
