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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown

Cool American food spots

Classic comfort food served in a space with a distinct personality makes for a memorable meal.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Greenhouse Bar image 1
The Greenhouse Bar image 2
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Space blends lush plants with stylish, cozy design creating a peaceful urban oasis. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, inviting reading, working, or quiet socializing. Plant shop and bar elements add unique charm and variety.

Grilled cheese sandwiches come in unique varieties like fig and brie, kimchi, and pizza styles. Apple pie and Greenhouse Cold Brew coffee also stand out as notable American food options.

Funky interior and nice plants create a cool vibe. The crew adds to the relaxed, interesting atmosphere.

People are saying

"This place's coffee has such a chill, lush atmosphere."

"The vibe here is so cool with all the plants."

"The American Food here is charming, with a unique atmosphere and lush greenery."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, but validation is available for nearby garages.

2

The small space makes finding a seat difficult during busy hours.

3

Expect a wait of over 20 minutes for drinks during peak times.

02
Underbelly image 1
Live music venue

Small venue offers intimate live music with great sound quality and phenomenal BBQ. Crowd is diverse and lively, creating an amazing atmosphere close to the bands. Setup ensures no bad views and includes thoughtful touches like a water cooler near the soundboard.

Brisket stands out with options like a sandwich paired with horseradish-based sauce and coleslaw and a version with Buffalo Trace sweet bourbon sauce. The brisket chili and pulled pork come with creamy, thick mac and cheese and flavorful sides.

Music fills the space with a cool vibe that stands out. Staff like bartenders and door guys add to the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"You've got to try their smoked turkey; it's moist and full of smoky flavor."

"You have to try their smoked turkey; it's moist and full of flavor."

"I thought the vibe here was really cool."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $30 when purchased in advance and $48 at the door.

2

Parking is available nearby, but it can be challenging during events.

3

The venue serves a full bar and hot BBQ made to order.

03
Indulgence Southern Bistro image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Petite space with neat decor and an exclusive feel creates a homey atmosphere. Old school R&B music plays at a comfortable volume, supporting easy conversation. The vibe reflects black excellence with attentive service and a relaxed energy.

Grits appear in several dishes like fish, shrimp, and salmon cakes, all cooked well. The mac-and-cheese side pairs consistently with these meals.

Cozy vibes create a chill atmosphere that feels relaxed and inviting. The spot carries a cool energy that makes hanging out easy.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the salmon croquettes and grits, is perfection."

"Our server Charles was amazing and brought all the energy for Brunch."

"The vibes here are so cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait time of 2-3 hours during peak hours.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and food.

04
The Southern Grill image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant offers a laid back atmosphere with live music and both indoor and outdoor seating. The space includes a spacious patio and multiple large TVs, creating a casual spot for food and games. The vibe is family-owned and community-focused, blending comfort with entertainment.

Southern-style dishes feature prominently with crispy fried chicken and pulled pork sandwiches that allow customizable sauce levels. Breakfast includes hearty options like eggs, toast, and grits praised as the best ever.

A cool atmosphere sets the tone with a wide variety of food options and cool people to hang out with. The aquarium adds an extra layer of interest to the vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food to be tasty and prepared perfectly."

"I thought the American food, especially the breakfast, was great."

"It's a cool place to hang out with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 PM.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday with a lively atmosphere.

3

Live music features rotating bands on Friday nights.

05
Pour Taproom - Jacksonville image 1

Self-pour taps with over 80 beer options create an interactive drinking experience. The space combines retro arcade games, multiple seating levels, and a wine wall, blending a dive bar feel with a modern twist. Live music and multiple screens support a lively atmosphere suited for games and socializing.

Shrimp and Steak Nachos stand out with excellent flavor and generous portions. Tater tots come out very good, adding a solid side option.

Self-serve taps let you pour your own beer, cocktails, and wine, creating a cool concept. Upstairs seating offers a cozy vibe while the overall design and atmosphere feel super cool.

People are saying

"It's a cool concept to pour your own beer after a learning curve."

"The atmosphere and vibe here are really cool."

"I loved trying the wide selection of American Food beers and ciders."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Self-service ordering is required; download the app to place your order.

3

Parking is available in a nearby garage, making access convenient.

06
Cowford Chophouse image 1

Old bank building with original style and safe deposit boxes creates a unique setting. Rooftop bar offers skyline views and a relaxing atmosphere with patio heaters and valet parking. Quiet, private rooms support intimate gatherings and clear conversation.

Duck fat cornbread stands out as a unique and flavorful appetizer. Ribeye steak pairs well with whipped potatoes, while NY strip comes alongside pimento Mac and cheese for a classic American meal.

A rooftop bar offers cool views of the city along with good drinks. The setting provides a relaxed vibe with a focus on the scenery.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty good to the best pork chop I ever had."

"The American Food here, especially the steak, is perfectly cooked and juicy."

"The rooftop bar has cool skyline views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great deals on appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits during peak hours.

3

The rooftop bar offers a unique happy hour experience with stunning views.

07
THAT BAR AT THE ARENA image 1

Sports bar combines indoor and outdoor spaces with two patios featuring bars. Atmosphere stays lively yet comfortable, with numerous TV screens and a festive vibe that draws energetic crowds before and after events.

Early drinks pair well with hamburgers and a pulled pork sandwich loaded with meat. Mozzarella sticks add a classic American snack option.

Atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting with a cool design inside. People there add to the vibe, making it a great spot to hang out before and after events.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and hustling."

"I loved the outdoor seating and the festive vibe."

"It's a cool little spot to hang out before and after games."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a great time to visit for discounted drinks.

2

Parking is available but can be crowded on game days.

3

Food ordering can be slow due to no designated seating area.

08
Dorothy's Downtown image 1

Space combines modern elegance with a vibrant, inviting atmosphere featuring a covered courtyard and distinct dining and cocktail areas. Energy feels warm and lively, with a stylish mix of old and new decor. Cocktails are eclectic and well-crafted, complementing a menu known for standout dishes and desserts.

Shrimp and grits come with rich flavors and great texture. The fried chicken gumbo features andouille sausage and fluffy yellow rice. Dishes like crab cakes and salmon on Gouda grits show careful seasoning and depth.

Inside, the atmosphere feels super cool with a nice vibe. The space offers a cool setting that stands out.

People are saying

"The salmon dish was good, and I loved the presentation."

"The American Food here, especially the shrimp and grits, was amazing."

"The crab cakes and voodoo balls were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with food and drink specials.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

3

Parking meters only accept credit cards, so bring one for payment.

09
Bay Street Sports Grill image 1

Rustic decor and multiple TVs create a fun, relaxed vibe with a small town feel in a big city. Pool tables, skee ball, and darts add interactive entertainment alongside good music and occasional live DJs. The atmosphere suits casual gatherings with affordable drinks and food.

Cheeseburgers come with an extra patty at no charge. Hot dogs stretch about 9 inches long, juicy with solid toppings. Wings shine with Cajun garlic and Carolina gold sauce paired with Cajun ranch.

Laid back vibe sets the tone with cool music playing in the background. Comedy shows add a fun element but can get loud for kids.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and tasty."

"The bartenders here are awesome and really attentive."

"The American Food here, especially the wings, is the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street or in the public parking building in front of the Hyatt hotel.

2

Drinks are reasonably priced, and food portions are good for the price.

3

The prices for liquor are on the high end.

10
Ocean Street Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio connects to an arcade game room, creating a quaint and lively space with giant Jenga and Connect 4. Colorful murals and Mexican music set a festive vibe, while pet-friendly seating and umbrellas offer comfort. A DJ and live music stage add to the energetic atmosphere.

Mac and cheese tacos stand out with rich, creamy cheese and a crispy shell. The menu also features a surf and turf taco combining seafood and meat flavors.

Live music on a small stage creates a cool hangout vibe. The back garden offers a chill atmosphere with friendly, cool staff.

People are saying

"The fish and brisket tacos here are delicious and fresh."

"The back patio has a bar and games like giant Jenga."

"The American Food tacos here are amazing."

Good to know

1

The lively atmosphere on the back patio occurs on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 12-6pm.

2

This downtown staple offers Taco Tuesday specials and daily specials.

3

Expect prices for tacos to range from $5.50 to $9.00 each.

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