You know that favorite diner, sandwich shop or seafood shack near you? The cash-only one you might affectionately call a greasy spoon or a hole in the wall? You can’t judge a book by its cover, and locals know that sometimes these places have the best food in town. Check out our list of the 14 best unassuming restaurants in Florida and see if your favorite spot made the list:
- The Freezer, Homosassa
www.tripadvisor.com/karenapardue1234 Fresh seafood at affordable prices? Is this a dream? The Freezer is a local gem in Homosassa with an authentic Old Florida feel. Guests eat from to-go boxes with plastic forks (or their hands), but they don’t complain. That’s because they’re eating some of the best steamed shrimp, mussels and crab in town. Bring cash and enjoy this waterfront gem.
- The Burg Bar & Grill, St. Petersburg
www.tripadvisor.com/rogersober
Facebook/The Burg Bar & Grill This is a tiny restaurant, but they serve up some big hits. From some of the best burgers in town to a fried chicken and waffle sandwich, you won’t be disappointed with anything on this menu. Come see why The Burg Bar & Grill is one of the best unassuming restaurants in Florida.
- Chowder Ted’s, Jacksonville
www.tripadvisor.com/Michigan Katie
Facebook/CHOWDER TED’S Be sure to bring cash when you visit this hidden gem in Jacksonville. The amazing food, cheap beer and awesome service will keep you coming back to Chowder Ted’s again and again.
- Tikanis, St. Petersburg
Facebook/TiKanis Tikanis is known for crafting some of the best pizza in town, including an authentic Chicago-style deep dish. Their wings, salads and craft beer are also must-try items. The next time hunger strikes, be sure to stop by this fantastic eatery.
- BeckyJack’s Food Shack, Weeki Wachee
Facebook/BeckyJack’s Food Shack
Facebook/BeckyJack’s Food Shack If you visit Weeki Wachee for a mermaid show, eating at BeckyJack’s Food Shack is a must. It might even be worth its own trip. Blackened fish sandwiches, fish tacos, clam chowder—it’s a big menu for such a small place. Side note: If you’re like us and have an obsession with finding the world’s best mac ’n cheese, you have to try BeckyJack’s scrumptious creation.
- Sunnyside Grill, Panama City Beach
www.tripadvisor.com/Kevno1painter You’ll find big servings of home-cooked comfort foods and breakfast classics at this grill in Panama City Beach. It’s also cash only, so remember to hit the ATM before you visit. Sunnyside Grill is one of those can’t-miss eateries in Florida.
- Mediterranean Deli, Orlando
Willie Santiago via Facebook/Mediterranean Deli
Anil Valiani via Facebook/Mediterranean Deli Hiding in this tiny, no-frills deli in Orlando is the best gyro you will ever eat. All of the other Mediterranean standards served here are also superb. If you want to be greeted like a hero, buy some extra food to take home. The meals from Mediterranean Deli will put a smile on your face.
- No Name Pub, Big Pine Key
www.tripadvisor.com/rfuchs0917 No Name Pub has great pub food, like pizza and wings, but it’s the laid-back classic Keys atmosphere that keeps folks coming back. You might even catch a glimpse of the rare Key deer, without even leaving your table.
- Gulf Coast Grouper & Chips, Naples
www.tripadvisor.com/Jennifer G Delicious dishes made with only the freshest fish have made this secret spot a local favorite for more than 20 years. The next time you get a craving for scrumptious seafood, head over to Gulf Coast Grouper & Chips.
- Boathouse Oyster Bar, Destin
www.tripadavisor.com/mattytude
www.tripadvisor.com/Sonja V If you’re looking for a waterfront hang out without a high price tag, this will be your new favorite place to eat. Guests rave about the crab legs, gumbo and, of course, the oysters. After your first visit to Boathouse Oyster Bar, you’ll want to come back again and again.
- Las Olas, Miami Beach
Facebook/Las Olas Cafe South Beach
Facebook/Las Olas Cafe South Beach This local favorite with a few locations in Miami is an affordable oasis in this pretty pricey city. Their authentic Cuban sandwiches, coffee, empanadas and fresh breakfasts will blow you away. Las Olas really has something for everyone.
- Tarks of Dania Beach
Facebook/Tarks of Dania Beach This is what locals would affectionately call a dive, so consider yourself warned. However, If you are in search of the best wings in the world, this beach bar/seafood shack deserves a spot on your bucket list. The eats from Tarks of Dania Beach.
- Mac’s Drive Thru, Gainesville
Facebook/Mac’s Drive Thru
Jonathan Smith via Facebook/Mac’s Drive Thru It’s rare these days to see a drive thru without a giant M in front of it, but Gainesville likes to be a little different. Mac’s Drive Thru has stood the test of time because of their simple menu full of delicious food at affordable prices. This is another cash-only spot, so come prepared, and avoid the lunch rush if you don’t want to wait in long lines full of hungry locals.
- King Neptune Restaurant, Stuart/Port Salerno
Facebook/King Neptune
Harvey Eubank via Facebook/King Neptune King Neptune is a local favorite for fresh seafood and great service. Guests rave about the cracked conch, seafood bisque, and just about everything else on the menu. We’ll save you a wasted trip and tell you they’re closed on Mondays.
Have you been to any of the best unassuming restaurants in Florida? Did your favorite eatery make the list? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another hidden gem in the Sunshine State, nominate it for a chance to be featured.
www.tripadvisor.com/karenapardue1234
Fresh seafood at affordable prices? Is this a dream? The Freezer is a local gem in Homosassa with an authentic Old Florida feel. Guests eat from to-go boxes with plastic forks (or their hands), but they don’t complain. That’s because they’re eating some of the best steamed shrimp, mussels and crab in town. Bring cash and enjoy this waterfront gem.
www.tripadvisor.com/rogersober
Facebook/The Burg Bar & Grill
This is a tiny restaurant, but they serve up some big hits. From some of the best burgers in town to a fried chicken and waffle sandwich, you won’t be disappointed with anything on this menu. Come see why The Burg Bar & Grill is one of the best unassuming restaurants in Florida.
www.tripadvisor.com/Michigan Katie
Facebook/CHOWDER TED’S
Be sure to bring cash when you visit this hidden gem in Jacksonville. The amazing food, cheap beer and awesome service will keep you coming back to Chowder Ted’s again and again.
Facebook/TiKanis
Tikanis is known for crafting some of the best pizza in town, including an authentic Chicago-style deep dish. Their wings, salads and craft beer are also must-try items. The next time hunger strikes, be sure to stop by this fantastic eatery.
Facebook/BeckyJack’s Food Shack
If you visit Weeki Wachee for a mermaid show, eating at BeckyJack’s Food Shack is a must. It might even be worth its own trip. Blackened fish sandwiches, fish tacos, clam chowder—it’s a big menu for such a small place. Side note: If you’re like us and have an obsession with finding the world’s best mac ’n cheese, you have to try BeckyJack’s scrumptious creation.
www.tripadvisor.com/Kevno1painter
You’ll find big servings of home-cooked comfort foods and breakfast classics at this grill in Panama City Beach. It’s also cash only, so remember to hit the ATM before you visit. Sunnyside Grill is one of those can’t-miss eateries in Florida.
Willie Santiago via Facebook/Mediterranean Deli
Anil Valiani via Facebook/Mediterranean Deli
Hiding in this tiny, no-frills deli in Orlando is the best gyro you will ever eat. All of the other Mediterranean standards served here are also superb. If you want to be greeted like a hero, buy some extra food to take home. The meals from Mediterranean Deli will put a smile on your face.
www.tripadvisor.com/rfuchs0917
No Name Pub has great pub food, like pizza and wings, but it’s the laid-back classic Keys atmosphere that keeps folks coming back. You might even catch a glimpse of the rare Key deer, without even leaving your table.
www.tripadvisor.com/Jennifer G
Delicious dishes made with only the freshest fish have made this secret spot a local favorite for more than 20 years. The next time you get a craving for scrumptious seafood, head over to Gulf Coast Grouper & Chips.
www.tripadavisor.com/mattytude
If you’re looking for a waterfront hang out without a high price tag, this will be your new favorite place to eat. Guests rave about the crab legs, gumbo and, of course, the oysters. After your first visit to Boathouse Oyster Bar, you’ll want to come back again and again.
Facebook/Las Olas Cafe South Beach
This local favorite with a few locations in Miami is an affordable oasis in this pretty pricey city. Their authentic Cuban sandwiches, coffee, empanadas and fresh breakfasts will blow you away. Las Olas really has something for everyone.
Facebook/Tarks of Dania Beach
This is what locals would affectionately call a dive, so consider yourself warned. However, If you are in search of the best wings in the world, this beach bar/seafood shack deserves a spot on your bucket list. The eats from Tarks of Dania Beach.
Facebook/Mac’s Drive Thru
Jonathan Smith via Facebook/Mac’s Drive Thru
It’s rare these days to see a drive thru without a giant M in front of it, but Gainesville likes to be a little different. Mac’s Drive Thru has stood the test of time because of their simple menu full of delicious food at affordable prices. This is another cash-only spot, so come prepared, and avoid the lunch rush if you don’t want to wait in long lines full of hungry locals.
Facebook/King Neptune
Harvey Eubank via Facebook/King Neptune
King Neptune is a local favorite for fresh seafood and great service. Guests rave about the cracked conch, seafood bisque, and just about everything else on the menu. We’ll save you a wasted trip and tell you they’re closed on Mondays.
Hungry for more? Check out this scrumptious no-frills seafood restaurant in Florida.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: The Freezer Tiki Bar, 5590 S Boulevard Dr, Homosassa, FL 34448, USAAddress: 1752 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, USAAddress: 5215 Heckscher Dr #3051, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USAAddress: 9385 Bay Pines Blvd N, St. Petersburg, FL 33708, USAAddress: 8070 Cortez Blvd, Weeki Wachee, FL 34607, USAAddress: 21828 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, USAAddress: 981 W Fairbanks Ave, Orlando, FL 32804, USAAddress: 30813 Watson Blvd, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, USAAddress: 338 9th St N, Naples, FL 34102, USAAddress: 288 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, USAAddress: 644 6th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USAAddress: 1317 S Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, FL 33004, USAAddress: 129 NW 10th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, USAAddress: King Neptune Restaurant, 4795 SE Dixie Hwy, Stuart, FL 34997, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best unassuming restaurants in Florida July 14, 2020 Elisa Regulski What are the best hole in the wall restaurants in Florida? Sometimes, the best eateries are the least flashy. For some truly scrumptious meals, head to one of Florida’s hole in the wall restaurants. From mouthwatering smoked meats from Big Lee’s in Ocala to homemade pies from The Front Porch in Dunnellon, this list hits all of the highlights. If it’s seafood you’re after, visit Florida Seafood in Cocoa Beach. This no-frills restaurant serves some of the most delicious dinners around. What are the best hidden gem restaurants in Florida? Hungry for more excellent meals? We know just where you should go. For starters, head over to Star Fish Company Market and Restaurant in Cortez. Although it doesn’t look fancy, their food is to-die-for. You’ll love relaxing on their scenic outdoor patio and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Bring your friends and make an entire afternoon out of it! There’s so much to love about this hidden gem restaurant in Florida. What are the best seafood restaurants in Florida? Florida is known for its scrumptious seafood, and there are so many incredible places to get it. Ted Peters, located in St. Petersburg, is one of the most famous restaurants in Florida. If you don’t order their wonderful smoked fish, you’re really missing out. Add this place to your Florida dining bucket list ASAP.
The OIYS Visitor Center
best unassuming restaurants in Florida
July 14, 2020
Elisa Regulski
What are the best hole in the wall restaurants in Florida? Sometimes, the best eateries are the least flashy. For some truly scrumptious meals, head to one of Florida’s hole in the wall restaurants. From mouthwatering smoked meats from Big Lee’s in Ocala to homemade pies from The Front Porch in Dunnellon, this list hits all of the highlights. If it’s seafood you’re after, visit Florida Seafood in Cocoa Beach. This no-frills restaurant serves some of the most delicious dinners around. What are the best hidden gem restaurants in Florida? Hungry for more excellent meals? We know just where you should go. For starters, head over to Star Fish Company Market and Restaurant in Cortez. Although it doesn’t look fancy, their food is to-die-for. You’ll love relaxing on their scenic outdoor patio and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Bring your friends and make an entire afternoon out of it! There’s so much to love about this hidden gem restaurant in Florida. What are the best seafood restaurants in Florida? Florida is known for its scrumptious seafood, and there are so many incredible places to get it. Ted Peters, located in St. Petersburg, is one of the most famous restaurants in Florida. If you don’t order their wonderful smoked fish, you’re really missing out. Add this place to your Florida dining bucket list ASAP.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Sometimes, the best eateries are the least flashy. For some truly scrumptious meals, head to one of Florida’s hole in the wall restaurants. From mouthwatering smoked meats from Big Lee’s in Ocala to homemade pies from The Front Porch in Dunnellon, this list hits all of the highlights. If it’s seafood you’re after, visit Florida Seafood in Cocoa Beach. This no-frills restaurant serves some of the most delicious dinners around.
What are the best hidden gem restaurants in Florida?
Hungry for more excellent meals? We know just where you should go. For starters, head over to Star Fish Company Market and Restaurant in Cortez. Although it doesn’t look fancy, their food is to-die-for. You’ll love relaxing on their scenic outdoor patio and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Bring your friends and make an entire afternoon out of it! There’s so much to love about this hidden gem restaurant in Florida.
What are the best seafood restaurants in Florida?
Florida is known for its scrumptious seafood, and there are so many incredible places to get it. Ted Peters, located in St. Petersburg, is one of the most famous restaurants in Florida. If you don’t order their wonderful smoked fish, you’re really missing out. Add this place to your Florida dining bucket list ASAP.
