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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Unique food finds in Southside

Routine meals have lost their appeal, and something unexpected is needed to break the monotony.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Raices | Fast Casual Mexican image 1
Raices | Fast Casual Mexican image 2
Raices | Fast Casual Mexican image 3
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Space combines boho style with modern Mexican art and features a salsa bar with whole peppers and limes. Atmosphere balances fast casual ordering with sit-down dining, creating a peaceful and clean vibe. Live music and a well-stocked bar add to the relaxed energy.

Food features exceptional freshness with shrimp that are hearty and soft. It offers complex spice and consistent flavor in traditional Mexican dishes served fast casual style.

Sauces stand out with unique flavors, including an orange one that has a sharp kick. Dishes offer fresh, delicious, and unique Mexican food options at unmatched prices.

People are saying

"This casual spot's corn tortillas are the best I've had."

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and truly unique."

Good to know

1

Raices offers an all-day happy hour with 50% off cocktails.

2

Live music occurs on Tuesdays and Fridays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Kids meals are priced at $8, providing affordable options for families.

02
Umami Curry & Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Intimate space filled with anime decorations and Naruto-themed decor creates a unique Japanese vibe. Warm and inviting atmosphere pairs with nostalgic music for a relaxed dining experience. Cramped layout contrasts with high-quality ramen and curry that stand out in flavor.

Food offers loads of flavor with a wide variety of textures and profiles. Dishes like fried octopus and peppers stand out, served fresh and promptly even when busy.

An intimate space with a really unique atmosphere. The curry broth stands out as a signature, and the food overall is distinctive and flavorful.

People are saying

"This food is the most authentic Japanese I've had."

"The curry here is amazing and full of flavor."

"The ramen broth here is uniquely thick and creamy."

Good to know

1

Bingo nights occur every other Wednesday, offering a fun social experience.

2

Karaoke nights are hosted regularly, providing entertainment for guests.

3

Parking is easy as the restaurant is located in a near-empty shopping center.

03
M Brothers at Mayo image 1
New American restaurant

Open concept kitchen and modern decor create a romantic, serene atmosphere with live saxophone and piano music enhancing the experience. The space feels private and relaxing, suitable for quiet business meetings or date nights. Guests enjoy carefully paired wines and gourmet dishes in a hidden gem setting inside a hospital campus.

Food here reaches a Michelin Star level even within a hospital setting. The quality and atmosphere stand out, with the hostess and service adding to the dining experience.

Menu offers deliciously unique dishes that stand out. Ambiance adds to the experience while catching up with friends.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here offer out of this world amazing food."

"The food here is amazing, especially the appetizers and entrees."

"The food here is amazing and uniquely delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant is located inside the Mayo Clinic, making it convenient for visitors.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

04
Zen Dumpling image 1
Asian restaurant

Modern space with minimalist decor and zenlike atmosphere offers a calming, peaceful vibe. Fresh dumplings are made behind a glass panel, adding to the authentic dining experience. Clean, spacious layout supports a relaxed setting with unique silverware and chopsticks.

Food arrives quickly with fresh ingredients and constant refills. The dishes offer a fantastic taste that stands out for quality and flavor.

The dining experience features unique Beef Pancake Rolls that resemble green onion tortillas wrapped like sushi with beef and veggies inside. Every roll feels refined and distinct, complemented by unusual silverware and chopsticks.

People are saying

"I found the soup dumplings to be juicy and delicious."

"The food here is incredible and tasted so fresh."

"You have to try their dumplings; they're bursting with freshness."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

05
YH Dim Sum image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Large, bright space with natural light and spacious seating creates an inviting yet elegant atmosphere. Clean, updated interior features ply board walls and a bar serving strong cocktails. Dim sum and authentic Cantonese dishes complement the relaxed, comfortable vibe.

Authentic Chinese food shines with wonderfully delicious flavors and consistent quality. Service stays excellent alongside a great ambiance and drinks.

Menu offers distinctive options with dishes that stand out for their authenticity and unique flavors. Drinks also bring a different twist, adding to the overall unique experience.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious and authentic."

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

"The dim sum here is authentic and truly unique."

Good to know

1

Dim sum is only served during lunch hours from 11 am to 2 pm.

2

Happy hour on drinks runs Monday to Saturday, 5-7 PM.

3

Starting July 15th, all-day dim sum is available.

06
Spliff's Gastropub - South Jax image 1

Gastropub combines dark, worn interior with friendly, laid-back vibe and community feel. It offers multiple entertainment options like pool, darts, blackjack, and live music, creating a lively atmosphere. The space supports late-night socializing with seating that encourages conversation.

Food stands out with excellent burgers and consistently perfect dishes. The menu offers a variety of options that keep the quality high every visit.

Unique flavors stand out in the food, especially the balsamic, goat cheese, and dill combinations. The fries are notably thin and crispy, offering a fresh twist on steak fries, and the environment adds to the overall uniqueness.

People are saying

"They have a great beer selection with tons of options."

"The food here is great and absolutely incredible."

"The fries here are unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Saturday nights, starting at 10pm.

2

Trivia night is every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Blackjack is available on Wednesday nights.

07
Bubbakoo's Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant wall art and energetic, positive atmosphere welcomes families and casual diners. Clean, well-appointed interior features cool videos on TVs and a fresh, uplifting vibe. Menu offers unique options with notable vegan and vegetarian choices and a reputation for some of the best burritos in town.

Food here offers great value with delectable flavors and a varied menu. Service is quick and friendly, making it a solid fast food choice.

Menu features unique flavor combinations and dishes like the Keto Bowl and customizable Chiwawa rice ball. Burritos stand out as more distinctive and flavorful compared to similar spots.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"They have so many great vegetarian options, like the crispy cauliflower."

"The flavor combinations on the menu are so unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday with discounted drinks.

2

Bubbakoo's Burritos offers vegan and vegetarian options on the menu.

3

Prices are budget-friendly for the amount of food provided.

08
Kyuramen x TBaar - Jacksonville image 1

Private booths with curtains and call buttons create a cozy, intimate atmosphere reminiscent of authentic ramen shops in Japan. The space features bamboo-themed decor and thoughtful amenities like USB and power outlets at each table. The environment feels spotlessly clean and welcoming, making it ideal for quiet meals or date nights.

Food arrives quickly with options to adjust flavor and heat using spices. The menu features amazing ramen and a variety of appetizers, all served with attentive service in a beautiful setting.

Broth stands out with its incredibly flavorful and unique taste. The interior design and atmosphere feel organized and distinct, fitting well for families.

People are saying

"I found the spicy ramen here to be excellent."

"I found the food here to be wonderful and enjoyable."

"The pork in the rice bun is amazing."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is available Monday to Friday from 11:30 am to 4 pm.

2

Expect the restaurant to be busy on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

3

Seating is usually fast during weekdays, even at peak times.

09
Gaa Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers a cozy, colorful vibe with thoughtful design and plenty of seating for work or relaxation. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing without loud music or crowds. Unique Hong Kong street-food style sets it apart from typical cafes.

Freshly made food arrives hot and ready without long waits. The Hong Kong street-food vibe shines through with sweet pineapple buns and taro filling that balance flavor and texture well.

Drinks feature creative and unique presentations with flavors like Creamy Black Sesame Banana Latte and Iced Cotton Candy Vanilla Latte. The decor is cozy and Instagrammable, making the coffee experience stand out.

People are saying

"The cafe staff here are so sweet and friendly."

"The drinks here are visually stunning with very creative presentations."

"The food and drinks here are mouthwatering and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like the upcoming lion dance.

2

Gaa Cafe offers unique small plate options that differ from standard Asian cafes.

3

The owner personally prepares all items, ensuring a homemade quality.

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Southside, Jacksonville

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