Step into the heart of Jacksonville’s waterfront dining scene and discover the Sandollar Restaurant. It has been captivating diners since 1954. Located where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique coastal experience.
With stunning river views and a casual, inviting atmosphere, it’s a must-visit. Whether you arrive by land or water, the scenic drive along Heckscher Drive sets the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Key Takeaways
- The Sandollar Restaurant has been a Jacksonville landmark since 1954, known for its waterfront dining experience.
- The restaurant offers a casual atmosphere with captivating views of the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Patrons can access the Sandollar Restaurant by both land and water, with a scenic drive along Heckscher Drive.
- The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including the award-winning Blackened Red Fish.
- The restaurant’s strategic location and exceptional cuisine make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique waterfront dining experience in Jacksonville.
A Historic Waterfront Dining Experience Since 1954
For over six decades, the Sandollar Restaurant has been a key part of Jacksonville’s dining scene. It’s known for its amazing seafood and stunning river views. The restaurant has recently changed hands, aiming to keep its traditions alive while offering top-notch food and service.
Legacy of Coastal Dining Excellence
The Sandollar Restaurant opened in 1954 and quickly became a favorite spot. It’s known for its fresh seafood and beautiful waterfront setting. This has made it a cherished part of Jacksonville’s seafood history.
Evolution Through the Years
Even though the Sandollar Restaurant has stayed true to its roots, it has also grown. The new owners have refreshed the focus on coastal dining. They want to keep it a top choice for a memorable meal by the St. Johns River.
The Sandollar Restaurant has been a beloved part of Jacksonville’s dining landscape for over six decades, and we’re committed to upholding its legacy of excellence while introducing new and exciting elements to the experience.
Prime Location on the St. Johns River
The Sandollar Restaurant is right on the St. Johns River in Jacksonville. It offers a stunning view of the river meeting the Atlantic Ocean. Plus, it’s close to the St. Johns River Ferry dock, making it easy to get to.
With the quiet north shore of the river behind it, the Sandollar Restaurant is a standout. It’s one of 21 waterfront restaurants in the area.
Located at 9716 Heckscher Drive, the Sandollar Restaurant is near State Parks and nature preserves. This makes it less crowded than other spots in Jacksonville. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the St. Johns River dining experience.
Unlike busy Jacksonville waterfront restaurants, the Sandollar is a calm retreat. It often has live music on weekends, if the weather is good. Its large outdoor deck, with unique decor and pink chairs, is perfect for enjoying the river view.
The Sandollar’s unique location and tranquil atmosphere set it apart from the crowded waterfront dining options in the area, offering a truly memorable St. Johns River dining experience.”
The Sandollar Restaurant Jacksonville FL Experience
At The Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, Florida, you’ll find a mix of casual and upscale dining. You can wear flip-flops and shorts or formal clothes and still feel at home. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating to suit everyone’s taste.
Casual Atmosphere Meets Upscale Dining
The Sandollar has a relaxed and cozy feel, great for meals with family and friends. Its casual atmosphere lets you unwind and enjoy your meal.
Indoor and Outdoor Seating Options
- For indoor dining, the Sandollar has a cozy area with views of the St. Johns River.
- The outdoor deck is a highlight, where you can enjoy the sun and see local wildlife.
Marina Access for Boat Arrivals
The Sandollar is special because you can get there by boat. It’s a favorite spot for boaters who can dock and walk right into the restaurant.
“The Sandollar is a true gem, offering a casual yet upscale dining experience with the added bonus of being accessible by boat. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the picturesque waterfront views.
Signature Seafood Menu Highlights
At The Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, FL, you’ll find a delicious selection of fresh, locally-sourced Jacksonville seafood menu items. The restaurant prides itself on using the best fresh fish dishes from nearby waters. Each dish is a true taste of the coastal cuisine.
The Sandollar Sandwich is a must-try, with a grilled fillet of Redfish. Another favorite is the Bourbon Street Salmon. It’s a salmon fillet marinated in a rich bourbon glaze, grilled to perfection.
The culinary team at The Sandollar searches local markets for the freshest seafood. This allows them to create a menu that changes with the seasons. Whether you want a classic seafood platter or something new, The Sandollar has it all.
“The Sandollar’s dedication to using only the finest, locally-sourced fresh fish dishes sets it apart as a true seafood destination in Jacksonville.”
Award-Winning Specialties and Local Favorites
The Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, FL, is known for its amazing seafood. It has won awards for its dishes. One favorite is the restaurant’s famous hush puppies.
Famous Hush Puppies
The Sandollar’s hush puppies are a must-try. These golden, fried cornbread balls are a Southern favorite. They offer a perfect mix of crunch and taste.
Served with tangy remoulade sauce, they’ve made the Sandollar famous. People love them for their delicious flavor.
Blackened Red Fish Selection
The Sandollar is also known for its Blackened Red Fish. It’s a bold dish with a fresh red fish fillet. The fish is blackened with Cajun spices, making it tender and flavorful.
This dish is a favorite among Jacksonville local favorites. It’s a top choice for award-winning seafood.
These dishes, along with the Sandollar’s commitment to quality, make it a top spot in Jacksonville, FL.
Waterfront Views and Dining Atmosphere
The Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, FL, offers a unique dining experience. It’s located on the banks of the scenic St. Johns River. The Jacksonville river views and scenic dining atmosphere make it special. It feels like a coastal getaway.
The outdoor seating on the deck is perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze. You can watch local birds land on the dock posts. This spot, where the river meets the Atlantic, makes dining even better.
| Menu Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Sandollar Sandwich | Grilled Redfish served in a roll with lettuce, tomato, and onion, accompanied by tartar and cocktail sauce. |
| Bourbon Street Salmon | Salmon fillet marinated in a bourbon glaze and grilled to perfection. |
Enjoying a Sandollar Sandwich or Bourbon Street Salmon is even better with the views. You can take in the river and ocean while you eat.
“The combination of river views and ocean breezes creates a unique dining atmosphere that truly sets The Sandollar apart.”
The Sandollar Restaurant is a mix of coastal charm, great food, and Jacksonville river views. It’s a dining experience like no other.
Special Events and Group Dining Options
The Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, FL is perfect for those looking for top-notch Jacksonville event venues and waterfront party locations. It has versatile event spaces and a beautiful waterfront view. This makes it ideal for many celebrations and group dining experiences.
Private Party Packages
The Sandollar has detailed private party packages for unforgettable events. Whether it’s a small gathering or a big celebration, their team can create a custom package for you. They offer elegant dinners and fun cocktail receptions to impress your guests.
Deck Party Arrangements
The Sandollar’s large deck with views of the St. Johns River is great for casual events. Enjoy delicious food and beautiful views while feeling the ocean breeze. It’s perfect for birthdays, corporate events, and more.
| Catering Option | Average Cost per Person | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Plenti Restaurant | $10 – $11 | Diverse Menu |
| Graze Craze | $8.99 – $19.50 | Catering Services |
| Catering Revolution | N/A | Serving First Coast Since 1994 |
| Sticky Fingers | N/A | BBQ, Burgers, Southern Cuisine |
| Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse | N/A | 45+ Item Catering Menu |
Whether it’s a formal event or a casual get-together, the Sandollar is the best choice. Its amazing event options and beautiful waterfront party location make it perfect for your next celebration.
Full-Service Bar and Beverage Selection
At the Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, FL, you can enjoy a full-service bar. It offers a wide selection of drinks to go with your meal by the water. Whether you want a cool cocktail with a view or a glass of wine with your seafood, they have it all.
The bar menu has many specialty cocktails, craft beers, and wines. You can try a classic martini or a Jacksonville waterfront bar special. Or, enjoy a fine wine while watching the St. Johns River.
For big events or private parties, the Sandollar’s bar offers full-service catering. They can make custom cocktail menus and bar packages for you. Whether it’s a corporate event, a wedding, or a deck party, they’ll make it special with great drinks and service.
| Beverage Catering Service | Price Range | Distance from St. Augustine, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Plenti | $10-$11 per person | 36 miles |
| Graze Craze | $8.99-$19.50 per person | 31 miles |
| LIQ-N-WINGS | $15-$32 per person | 45 miles |
| Happy Drinks | $150-$500 per event | 51 miles |
Looking for a drink with a view or planning a big event? The Sandollar Restaurant’s bar is ready to give you an amazing cocktails with a view experience.
Fresh Seafood Sourcing and Preparation
At the Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, FL, the team is proud of their fresh seafood. They get it from local markets. The menu changes with the seasons, showing off the best fish of the year.
Market-Fresh Ingredients
The chefs at the Sandollar work with local suppliers. They pick the best seafood for a top-notch dining experience. This includes wild-caught fish and farmed shellfish.
Seasonal Specialties
- In summer, enjoy Flounder’s sweet taste or fresh Oysters.
- Spring brings Grouper’s rich flavor, and fall has Crab Cakes.
- Every visit to the Sandollar means fresh seafood Jacksonville offers.
| Dish | Seasonal Availability | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Flounder | Summer | $24.95 |
| Oysters Rockefeller | Fall | $19.95 |
| Blackened Grouper | Spring | $28.95 |
| Crab Cakes | Fall | $21.95 |
“At the Sandollar, we are committed to serving the freshest, most flavorful seafood possible. Our chefs work tirelessly to source the best local and seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every dish is a true taste of the coast.”
– Executive Chef, Sandollar Restaurant
Accessibility and Location Details
The Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, Florida, is a waterfront dining gem. It’s on Heckscher Drive, easy to get to by car or boat. This makes it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Exploring the Jacksonville waterfront? The Sandollar is close to the St. Johns River Ferry dock. You can drive along Heckscher Drive or take a boat ride. Either way, you’ll see amazing river views.
Heckscher Drive is full of great spots, like Singleton’s Seafood Shack and Wicked Barley Brewing Company. Singleton’s has been serving fresh fish for over 40 years. Wicked Barley has a huge outdoor beer garden with water views.
For a deeper Jacksonville waterfront access, try Palms Fish Camp Restaurant or Lemon Bar. Palms offers views of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Lemon Bar has views of the Atlantic Ocean. Safe Harbor Seafood Market and Restaurant and O-Ku rooftop bar also have great views of Mayport.
Looking for a tasty seafood meal, a cool cocktail, or just to enjoy the views? The Sandollar Restaurant and Heckscher Drive spots offer a top-notch dining and entertainment experience in Jacksonville, Florida.
Conclusion
The Sandollar Restaurant in Jacksonville, FL, is a top waterfront seafood restaurant. It offers a unique Jacksonville dining experience. With its beautiful views of the St. Johns River and fresh local seafood, it’s a favorite spot for many.
Looking for a casual dinner or a special event? The Sandollar Restaurant has it all. It’s known for its inviting atmosphere, great service, and top-notch food. Every visit is designed to leave a lasting memory.
When in Jacksonville, don’t miss the Sandollar Restaurant. It’s a key part of the city’s dining scene. Enjoy the stunning views, fresh seafood, and warm hospitality. It’s a place loved by both locals and visitors.