Singleton’s Seafood Shack is located on the beautiful shores of Mayport, Florida. It has been serving fresh, locally-sourced seafood since 1969. This family-owned restaurant offers a true Old Florida dining experience.
Guests can enjoy waterfront views and a casual atmosphere. The menu celebrates the region’s rich maritime heritage. It’s a place where tradition meets delicious food.
Key Takeaways
- Singleton’s Seafood Shack has been a Mayport staple for over 50 years, offering fresh-caught fish and seafood in a casual, waterfront setting.
- The restaurant has been recently renovated, with upgrades to the outdoor deck, dining room, and kitchen equipment.
- Singleton’s is committed to preserving the local seafood traditions of Mayport, the oldest fishing village in the United States.
- The menu features classic seafood dishes, as well as regional specialties like Minorcan Clam Chowder and blackened gator tail.
- Guests can enjoy their meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the working fishing boats along the St. Johns River.
A Rich History Since 1969
Singleton’s Seafood Shack has been a favorite in Mayport for over 50 years. It started in 1969 by Capt. Ray Singleton and his wife Ann. They first served breakfast to local fishermen. Now, it offers a wide menu of fresh seafood.
The Legacy of Mayport’s Seafood Tradition
Mayport, founded in 1562, is known for its seafood. Singleton’s Seafood Shack celebrates this tradition. Capt. Ray Singleton, a 10th generation Minorcan, added to the Shack’s history.
From Local Secret to Food Network Fame
In 2010, Singleton’s Seafood Shack became famous on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fieri. This made it a top spot for seafood lovers everywhere. Today, it has over 130,800 followers on Facebook.
“Singleton’s Seafood Shack is a true representation of Mayport’s rich seafood tradition, offering fresh, boat-to-table specialties that have been delighting customers for over 50 years.”
The Authentic Old Florida Dining Experience
At Singleton’s Seafood Shack, you’ll find a true Old Florida dining experience. It’s simple and genuine. Since 1969, this place has been serving casual seafood dining. They focus on fried seafood and Mayport shrimp on styrofoam plates with plastic forks.
The vibe here is rustic and authentic “shack” ambiance. The rooms and decks are made from rough lumber and plywood. It feels like stepping back in time to Old Florida, where the main thing is fresh, delicious seafood and warm hospitality.
“Singleton’s Seafood Shack has been a local staple since 1969, with a bartender who’s been working there for 31 years and an owner who’s turned down $10 million offers to sell the place. That’s how you know it’s the real deal.”
While you eat, you’ll see Mayport’s fishing village life. You’ll get views of the water and boats passing by. It’s a truly authentic experience that honors the coastal community’s history and traditions.
If you want fried seafood, Minorcan chowder, or just the laid-back, old-school charm of Old Florida, Singleton’s is the spot. It’s a timeless gem that’s as much a part of Mayport as the fishing boats on the horizon.
Singleton’s Seafood Shack: Location and Atmosphere
Singleton’s Seafood Shack sits at the mouth of the St. Johns River in Mayport. It’s a historic fishing village. This family-owned spot has been around since 1969, bringing local seafood traditions to life.
Waterfront Views and Fishing Boats
When you enter Singleton’s, you’re hit with stunning St. Johns River views. You’ll see fishing boats floating nearby. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the coastal vibe and watch the harbor’s activity.
Indoor and Outdoor Dining Options
Singleton’s has something for everyone. You can dine inside, where it feels like a cozy nautical retreat. Or, choose the outdoor deck for a sunny spot with river views. Either way, you’re in for a genuine Old Florida dining experience.
The Unique Museum Annex
But there’s more. Singleton’s also has a ship model museum inside. It showcases over 130 detailed model boats made by Capt. Ray Singleton. This annex gives a peek into the maritime history of the area.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Mayport, FL – at the mouth of the St. Johns River |
| Dining Options | Indoor dining room, outdoor deck |
| Museum Annex | Over 130 ship models crafted by the founder |
Fresh From the Boat: Daily Seafood Selection
At Singleton’s Seafood Shack, you’ll find a variety of fresh-caught fish and local seafood every day. The restaurant is close to Mayport’s fishing docks. This means the chefs get the freshest catch right from the boat.
Look into the display counter to see what’s in today. You might see snapper, grouper, shrimp, and more. This clear view lets you see the seafood’s quality and freshness. It makes for a real, authentic dining experience.
| Seafood Item | Source | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Red Snapper | Local Mayport Fishing Fleet | Daily |
| Shrimp | Locally Caught in the Atlantic Ocean | Daily |
| Grouper | Gulf of Mexico | Seasonal |
| Flounder | Coastal Waters of Northeast Florida | Daily |
The chefs at Singleton’s Seafood Shack use only the freshest local seafood. They prepare your meal with great care and quality. No matter how you like your fish, it’s fresh-caught and served with pride.
Signature Dishes and Local Specialties
When you walk into Singleton’s Seafood Shack, you’ll smell Minorcan cuisine. The famous Minorcan Clam Chowder is a must-try. It’s a rich, flavorful dish that honors the area’s history, mixing fresh seafood with Datil pepper.
The blackened gator tail appetizer is another favorite. It’s a unique dish that highlights the Florida waterways’ bounty. For a classic choice, the menu has many fried shrimp options, pleasing all seafood fans.
Singleton’s is known for its fresh catch preparations. You can choose how you want your seafood cooked: grilled, fried, or blackened. This way, you get to enjoy the day’s freshest catch.
“The secret to our success lies in the quality of our ingredients and the care we put into every dish. We’re proud to showcase the bounty of the sea right here in Mayport.”
– Owner, Singleton’s Seafood Shack
The Southern Hospitality Experience
Singleton’s Seafood Shack is known for its warm Southern hospitality. The waitstaff, many long-time employees, call customers “hon” and “darlin'”. This creates a welcoming atmosphere that captures the South’s charm.
As soon as you enter, you’re surrounded by southern charm. Your meal comes with hushpuppies, a Southern favorite. Collard greens are also a common side, showing the restaurant’s deep Southern roots.
The friendly service at Singleton’s makes every visit feel like a reunion. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll leave with a smile. The genuine hospitality here is truly special.
“The staff at Singleton’s really makes you feel like family. They’re so attentive and always have a kind word to share. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back again and again.”
Singleton’s Seafood Shack is the heart of Southern warmth. From the start, you’re wrapped in the rich culture and southern charm. It’s a favorite spot for seafood lovers and locals alike.
Operating Hours and Best Times to Visit
Singleton’s Seafood Shack has been a favorite in Mayport, Florida, since 1969. It’s known for fresh seafood. Knowing when to go can make your visit better.
Weekly Schedule
Singleton’s Seafood Shack is open every day. It’s open from 10 AM to 9 PM from Sunday to Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, it stays open until 10 PM. This lets everyone enjoy their meals and the view by the water.
Peak Hours and Seasonal Considerations
Singleton’s Seafood Shack is a top spot for restaurant hours. It gets very busy during the day and in the peak seasonal dining season. Lunch is the busiest time, from 11 AM to 2 PM. The warm months bring more people to the Mayport waterfront.
| Day | Hours | Peak Times |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday-Thursday | 10 AM – 9 PM | 11 AM – 2 PM |
| Friday-Saturday | 10 AM – 10 PM | 11 AM – 2 PM, 6 PM – 9 PM |
Knowing the restaurant hours, busy times, and seasonal dining helps. You’ll have a great time at Singleton’s Seafood Shack, whether for lunch or dinner.
What Makes the Shack Special
Singleton’s Seafood Shack in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, is a true gem. It captivates visitors with its rustic charm, commitment to fresh seafood, and status as a beloved local favorite. Since 1945, it has been serving the community with quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
Its waterfront location offers stunning views of the St. Johns River and Mayport’s fishing village. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining areas. These provide a comfortable and casual setting for families, friends, and seafood lovers.
Singleton’s dedication to serving the freshest seafood is unmatched. Being close to the docks means the catch of the day is always fresh. The menu showcases a variety of preparations that highlight the sea’s natural flavors.
| Signature Dishes | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Minorcan Clam Chowder | A regional specialty made with local datil peppers, delivering a unique and flavorful twist on the classic New England-style chowder. |
| Blackened Gator Tail | A local favorite that showcases the versatility of the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. |
| Shrimp Burgers | A signature dish that has gained national recognition, featuring delicious shrimp patties that are a testament to the restaurant’s culinary expertise. |
Singleton’s Seafood Shack is also known for its rich history and dedication to the local community. It has faced many challenges, including hurricanes and industry changes. Yet, it has remained a key part of Mayport for over 70 years.
“Singleton’s Seafood Shack has been a part of the fabric of Mayport for generations, and we’re proud to carry on that legacy,” says owner Dean Singleton, a 10th generation Minorcan. “Our commitment to serving the freshest seafood and providing a welcoming, casual atmosphere is what keeps our patrons coming back time and time again.”
Singleton’s Seafood Shack is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. It offers a truly authentic and unforgettable Old Florida dining experience. From its rustic charm to its dedication to fresh seafood and its status as a beloved local favorite, this legendary eatery is a true gem that captures the essence of Jacksonville Beach’s vibrant culinary scene.
Conclusion
Singleton’s Seafood Shack offers a real Mayport dining experience. It mixes fresh seafood with a relaxed waterfront ambiance. With a 76-year history, it’s a favorite spot, keeping the seafood tradition alive.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, eating at Singleton’s feels like stepping into Old Florida. Here, quality, simplicity, and fresh seafood are the main focus.
The lightly fried Florida shrimp and Minorcan clam chowder are must-try dishes. They celebrate the sea’s bounty. The friendly atmosphere and Southern hospitality make it a place people love to return to.
Enjoying the flavors and views at Singleton’s Seafood Shack shows why it’s a key part of Mayport’s dining scene. It’s perfect for those wanting a true taste of coastal Florida or a tasty seafood meal without breaking the bank.