When prospective homebuyers begin looking for a new home, one of the first questions they often ask is, “What restaurants are nearby?”
Even those seeking a home in the suburbs or surrounded by nature enjoy being not too far from such cosmopolitan offerings as shops and great restaurants. In particular, real estate experts say, “empty nesters” looking to start a new chapter in their lives, often desire a new home situated close to a diverse array of dining destinations.
First Coast Food
Fortunately, buyers considering a new home on Northeast Florida’s “First Coast” have a wide range of restaurants and dining options from which to choose. Residents of Nocatee, for example, are just a short drive from the many restaurants of Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra Beach and historic St. Augustine. From family-friendly and casual spots to fine dining options, the First Coast offers countless culinary choices to suit any palate or budget.
Here are just a few of the many local dining options in the First Coast area:
Casual
The Beach Diner: With locations in Ponte Vedra Beach, Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville’s popular San Marco neighborhood, the Beach Diner is a favorite. Beach Diner offers sumptuous breakfasts such as Belgian waffles, shrimp and crab omelettes and “eggs on the bayou.”
Dick’s Wings: With numerous locations in the Jacksonville area -- including one at Nocatee Town Center -- Dick’s is known for its 365 varieties of wings and its Wednesday night trivia contests.
Food trucks: Haven’t tried the First Coast’s latest dining craze yet? Food trucks have come a long way since the days of hot dogs and soft-serve ice cream cones. Today’s food trucks feature unique menu offerings such as lobster corn dogs, Korean barbecue short rib melts and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. What’s more, Nocatee’s monthly “Food Truck Night” at the Splash Water Park has become a highly anticipated community event. Residents turn out to sample cuisine from a variety of food trucks while enjoying live entertainment.
Fine Dining
The Columbia: A St. Augustine tradition since 1905, the Columbia offers authentic Cuban cuisine right in the heart of the city’s historic district.
Matthew’s: Considered by many to be Jacksonville’s finest restaurant, Matthew’s features a diverse menu including Hudson Valley foie gras, prime beef tenderloin and fresh Atlantic salmon. Along with numerous pasta dishes, Matthew's dessert menu includes unexpected offerings such as a rum raisin milkshake! Chef Matthew Medure is also the creative force behind Ponte Vedra Beach’s popular Restaurant Medure and the new, casual MShack offering burgers and shakes at St Johns Town Center.
95 Cordova: Located in the St. Augustine’s historic Casa Monica Hotel, 95 Cordova is the quintessential special occasion restaurant. This exquisite dining experience offers escargot, filet mignon, Chilean sea bass and other specialties in its opulent dining room.
Waterfront
The Chart House: Pan-seared king salmon, macadamia-crusted mahi and blue cheese filet mignon are just a few of the specialties offered at this landmark restaurant. Located on the St. Johns River, The Chart House was designed by famed architect Frank Gehry.
The Reef: Located right on the beach along scenic A1A in St. Augustine, The Reef is known for its seafood offerings and popular Sunday brunch.
Interested in a new home? Visit the Nocatee Welcome Center or call 1-800-NOCATEE for more information.