29 South ~ This eclectic bistro has it all; great ambiance, fantastic food, an extensive wine list and reasonable prices. The menu can best be described as traditional world cuisine with modern, whimsical twist, where award-winning executive chef and owner Scotty Schwartz paints a playground for the palette. Choose from entrees including: lobster corn dogs with spicy horseradish ketchup spiked with ketel one vodka, seared scallops on green tea smoked thai curry nage topped with crispy calamari straws, and sweet tea brined smithfield farm pork chop on macaroni gratin with warm blackberry preserves. 29 South also features grilled pizzas, sandwiches, and nightly specials. 29 South Third Street, Historic Downtown, 277-7919, www.29southrestaurant.com • Read a review!

Bar Zin ~ Inspired by 30 years in the hospitality industry and numerous trips to Napa and Sonoma, our philosophy at Bar Zin is quite simple: create a fun relaxed upbeat indoor / outdoor atmosphere where friends and families can enjoy creative, fresh American bistro cuisine. In addition, we offer a diverse beverage menu consisting of great wines, local brews, and Saki martinis. Whenever possible, it is our intention to utilize local farmers, local products, and local businesses to create a farm-to-table style menu. Our vision was to design a neighborhood atmosphere where everyone will feel welcome, whether you are enjoying a full meal, appetizers, or just stopping in for a cold beverage; a place that will attract a diverse clientele which in turn makes it a place where everyone will have a relaxing and fun time. www.barzin-bistro-winebar.com. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. Major credit cards. 4924 First Coast Hwy at Palmetto Walk Shopping Village. (904) 310-6620. Read a review!

Bonito Grill and Sushi ~ Bonito Grill & Sushi offers guests a unique dining experience with an “East meets West” fusion cooking style. Enjoy miso-rubbed Chilean Sea Bass, black bean & garlic Maine lobster, hoisin citrus glazed salmon, or one of our chef's daily fusion specials. Dine in the casual sushi bar area, or for a more elegant evening, select from our extensive wine list and indulge in the experience of our warm, contemporary dining room. Monday through Saturday, join us for lunch, and try Bonito’s popular Bento lunch box. Our full bar, eclectic menu, and unique atmosphere will provide a new twist to your normal lunch or dinner routine. 614 Centre St. 261-0508. Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Sat. 12:00-2:30pm, Dinner: 7 days, 5:30-9:30pm V/MC/AE. www.bonitogrillandsushi.com • Read a review!

Brett’s Waterway Cafe ~ The only restaurant on the island where you can dine overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, Brett’s offers a wide choice of seafood, chicken and beef with daily specials both at lunch and dinner. The view of the water, the impeccable service and the refined ambiance will enhance your dining pleasure. The large rectangular bar overlooking the Fernandina Harbor Marina is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink. Open seven days. At the marina on Front Street. 261-2660. Open 7 days, Mon-Sat. www.brettswaterwaycafe.com • Read a review!

Le Clos ~ Located in Fernandina’s Historic District, Le Clos serves delicious Provençal dishes, by candlelight and music, in a charming, intimate, 1906 cottage. Patio garden seating available, weather permitting. Eclectic wine list. Monday-Saturday 5:30-9:00 PM. Reservations recommended. 30 South Second Street. (904)261.8100. www.leclos.com. D, $$$, B/W. Read a review!

Crab Trap ~ Nautical decor and friendly service makes for a casual, relaxing atmosphere. Dinner daily offers seafood—fried, grilled, broiled, or blackened—as well as steaks, chicken and oysters year round. Entrees $8.95 - $18.95. Call for seasonal hours. Beer, wine, and cocktails. Family owned and operated since 1979. 31 N 2nd Street, 261-4749. V/MC/D. Read a review!

David's Restaurant & Lounge ~ David's Restaurant has it all: an amazing Steakhouse & Seafood Menu, upscale atmosphere, and professional service staff, all for your dining pleasure. Relax in our comfortable leather lounge and peruse the Martini and full bar menu. Executive Chef Robert Camp offers prime steaks, Filet Oscar, and our Signature 20oz boneless Ribeyes. English Channel Dover Sole, Maine Lobster, Chilean Sea Bass and a true Surf & Turf. Desserts & breads made on premises. Open 7 days from 5-10pm with the lounge opening at 4pm. Prix Fixe menu available from 5-6:30pm for 35.00 pp plus tax & grat. No high chairs or kids menu. 802 Ash Street. (904) 310-6049. Reservations highly recommended. www.AmeliaIslandDavids.com • Read a review!

España ~ Featuring Old World cuisine from Portugal and Spain, España offers an intriguing menu in a comfortably elegant atmosphere in downtown Fernandina Beach. Owner/chef Roberto Pestana serves mouthwatering tapas like Grouper Ceviche, Portobello al La España, and Shrimp with Garlic, all served with España’s homemade bread. Entrees include a classic Seafood Paella, and a variety of fresh local seafood and meats. España also features an extensive wine list and an excellent homemade sangria. Available for private parties. Reservations recommended. All major credit cards. Open 7 days. 261-7700. 22 South 4th Street. www.espanadowntown.com • Read a review!

Espressos Cafe ~ Food offerings at Espressos are simple and light, refined over many years by discriminating palates and freshly prepared in the best Tuscan tradition. Enjoy Old-World wines from the star vineyards of Europe and coffees and teas chosen from the finest estates in the world. Espressos boasts an elegant ambience that mirrors Europe’s finest bistros and cafés. Located in Gateway to Amelia. Open Mon. to Wed., 8 a.m to 5 p.m; Thurs. to Sat., from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Available for private events at other times. (904) 491-9800. Major credit cards. B,L,D. $$

The Florida House Inn ~ Enjoy Southern cooking at its best. Chef Susannah Sands makes everything on the menu from scratch. Menu includes southern style home cooking as well as Southern Bistro salads, sandwiches, soups and daily specials. The Florida House Inn is located just off Centre Street in the historic district of Fernandina Beach. The inn is the oldest surviving hotel in the state of Florida and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Lunch: Wed. – Sun. 11:30am - 2:30pm. Mermaid Bar: Open Wed. – Sun. Drink specials nightly. 23 South Third Street, 904-491-3322. L, $$, F • Read a review!

Gennaro's Ristorante Italiano and Pizzera ~ Authentic Italian cuisine at its finest. Start with our Antipasto or our mussels with white wine or marinara sauce. Accent with luscious wine from our extensive selection. Try our signature dishes, such as Chicken Marsala, Veal Cacciatore with fresh mushrooms, Shrimp Fra' Diavolo or Veal Piccata with lemon, butter, capers and white wine sauce. Complete your meal with "Chianti Classico" from Banfi. Our delicious desserts include Caramel Fudge Pecan cake and Raspberry White Chocolate Key Lime Cheese Cake. It's a dining experience to remember and relive often. Two locations: 5 S. Second St., Downtown Fernandina (next to Hampton Inn), (904) 261-9400, -Fri 4:30 - 9:30pm; Sat 11:30am - 9:30pm; Sun 12 - 9:30pm, and 5472 First Coast Hwy (next to Summer Beach check-in), (904) 491-1999, Mon-Sun 4:30 - 9:30pm. Reservations recommended. Major credit cards accepted.

Gourmet Gourmet ~ Gourmet Gourmet is located between The Ritz-Carlton and AIP at the historical American Beach entrance, on the corner of Lewis Street and A1A. In addition to our fabulous selections of baked goods, appetizers, salads, & entrées to go, we also serve gourmet coffees/cappuccino/espresso with continental breakfast items & lunch everyday. A bistro-style dinner menu is served Wed-Sat 5-9 pm, with a full brunch menu on Sundays 9am-6pm. AE/MC/ V/DISC 261-8973. Mon-Sat 8am-9pm & Sun 9pm-6pm. Read a review!

Hoyt House ~ Enjoy an Authentic English Tea Experience at The Hoyt House Bed & Breakfast. Our menu has fresh Scones and Crumpets made about one hour before you arrive and are usually still warm. A perfect balance of sweet and savory with three different Silver tray platters to choose from.Our signature Tea Sandwiches of Spiced Egg, Tarragon Chicken and the classic Cucumber are sure to please. For a different experience we also have a tray of English Cheeses and Truffle Pate. Open daily Wednesday through Sunday from 12:30pm to 3:30pm and private parties of six or more on Monday & Tuesday. Trays range from $11.95 - $39.95. Full libations offered including Bellini Cocktail, Mimosa & Bloody Mary's to complete your experience. Reservations are required. 904-277-4300.Our menu is on-line at www.hoythouse.com. Located at 804 Atlantic Avenue on the corner of Center & 8th Avenue in the Historic District.

Jack & Diane's ~ Jack & Diane's remains the love of the locals for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Come explore "A world of Taste all in one Place" as it is affectionately known by guests from every corner of the globe. At the crossroads of comfort and quest, you will find each dish combines homespun recipes with global influences offering new discoveries in their signature concept of "adventurous dining". The extensive five page menu presents such a great variety that they created a $5 tasting menu, so you can explore all your cravings at once. This cozy bistro nestled in a historic home circa 1862 offers a fun-loving, unique dining experience in what is now an artists' sanctuary. Your senses will be filled with sights, sounds and tastes from the world over in this little island gem. Tastes that echo both tradition and adventure, it's the memories a happy life are made of. www.jackanddianescafe.com • Read a review!

Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro ~ Located in historic downtown Fernandina, Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro serves innovative cuisine in a relaxed, island atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood, game, and specialty dishes in a charming 1903 home, or outside in a New Orleans-inspired courtyard. Jacksonville Magazine Top 25. Extensive wine list available. Reservations recommended. Major credit cards. 321-2558. Open 7 days. www.joesbistro.com • Read a review!

Kabuki Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar ~ Enjoy the show as your chef, a master of the ancient art of Teppanyaki cookery, prepares your meal in front of you. Entrees of certified Angus beef, chicken or seafood include soup, salad, shrimp appetizer, vegetables, rice and tea. All entrees MSG free. Dinners from $9.95. Open Tues-Sun at 5:30pm. Closed Monday. 37-item sushi bar. Children’s menu. Beer and wine. Waiting list accepted. Amelia Plaza. 277-8782. Read a review!

Karibrew ~ Located on North 3rd St. just off Centre Street in the historic downtown district. It has a cozy interior with a funky, laid-back setting. It’s most striking feature is its naturally shaded outdoor dining patio. Great selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups for lunch. Tasty nightly fresh fish specials, theme nights (Wed: pad thai, Thur: curry), and live music in the patio most Friday and Saturday nights. Kid friendly. Vegetarian items on the menu. Open: 11- 9 Tue thru Sat; Sunday Brunch 10:30-2; Mon 11-3. Fresh-brewed beer available in the Cafe and in the brew pub—The Karibrew—located next door. Food prices are relatively low- lunch average $10 pp/ dinner $20 pp (generous portions). Read a review!

Kelley's Courtyard Café ~ The newest addition to Fernandina Beach's eclectic blend of restaurants. This family friendly Café offers homemade soups, salads and sandwiches in a warm and welcoming courtyard in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach. On and Off site catering available. Please come and join us at Kelley's we're at 19 S. 3rd Street Fernandina Beach. (904) 432-8213. Read a review!

O’Kane’s ~ Whether you’re Irish or not, you’re sure to enjoy this pub. Genuine Irish cheer on tap with a wide selection including ales, bitters and stout, plus single malt Scotches, of course Irish Whiskey and just the right food to go with it–Irish Steak and Guinness Pie or Shepherd's Pie. O'Kane's has a lively pub in front and a spacious brick-walled dining room in the back. 318 Centre St. 261-1000, Open 7 days. Read a review!

Picante ~ Just west of the Shave Bridge, Picante offers the vibrant flavors of Peru and Latin America with a contemporary look and a fun atmosphere boasting a large dining area and free Wi-Fi throughout. The menu at Picante reflects the culinary influences of Latin America providing their guests with a distinctive and unique Latin dining experience. Mostly influenced by Peruvian cuisine, we stamp our dishes with new, bold flavors to challenge and excite your palate! Offering everything from authentic Peruvian Cebiche to Argentinian cuts of beef with chimichurri sauce.  Picante also serves an extensive selection of both boutique South American wines as well as international and domestic craft brew beers, adding a unique flare to the Island's dining experience. For more information please call (904) 310-9221/9222 or visit us at www.picantenassau.com. Open: Mon-Sun for Lunch and Dinner. $$. B/W. Read a review!

PLAE ~ PLAE has just opened here on Amelia Island to rave reviews from the local clientele and visitors alike. PLAE raises dining on Amelia Island to new levels. PLAE (People Laughing and Eating) has crossed into unknown territory with a brilliant and seductive atmosphere that accompanies an incomparable menu. Both the menu and the lounge are classic, with exciting twists and unexpected elements that tantalize all appetites. Make PLAE a must on your “to do” list. Located at The Spa & Shops at Amelia Island Plantation. 277-2132. www.plaefl.net • Read a review!

Tasty's Fresh Burgers & Fries ~ Amelia Island's FRESH spot for great grub and even better atmosphere! Our burgers are 100% grass-fed Angus beef and the fries are hand cut. For our health conscious and PALEO customers, try a bunless option or a delicious turkey burger. And for all the herbivores, we offer a beautiful veggie burger chocked full of flavor! Relax and enjoy an icy cold beer or glass of wine in the casual indoor or outdoor seating. We offer free WI-FI and flat screen TV so you won't miss your game! Corner of 8th and Centre Street in Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach. L, D, $, B/W.

Sandy Bottoms ~ Casual dining, lunch and dinner menu, outside beach bar, tables and chairs in the sand on the beach, live entertainment almost every night, feet from the ocean.  We offer seafood, sandwiches, salads, and home made pizzas.  Full bar inside and outside. Read a review!

Sliders Seaside Grill ~ The Caribbean has come to Amelia Island! Slider's offers fun dining for the whole family! Exotic seafood and steaks served to order are the specials of the house. Enjoy a beautiful oceanfront view inside, or on the patio, located steps from the beach. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 1998 S. Fletcher Ave. at Sadler Rd. (next to the roundabout). 277-6652. Read a review!

The Surf ~ Dine indoors or out on the huge, oceanview deck. The extensive menu features delicious steaks, fresh fish, oysters, shrimp and nightly specials. Also featuring sandwiches, burgers, seafood baskets and our famous all-you-can-eat wing specials (Wed. & Sun.). Take out available. Open daily from 11am until late. 29 TVs throughout. Full service bar. Live entertainment every night and weekend afternoons. 3199 S. Fletcher Ave. 261-5711. www.thesurfonline.com • Read a review!

The Verandah ~ Charmingly casual with today’s freshest seafood…The Verandah alone is worth a trip to Amelia. Sample specially prepared delicacies from the sea as well as grilled New York strip, pan-roasted free-range chicken, grilled pork tenderloin and more! Set among the live oaks of Racquet Park, views are splendid and the service is even better. Dinner nightly, 5:30pm-9pm. Amelia Island Plantation, 6800 First Coast Hwy. Reservations, 321-5050. www.villasofameliaisland.com • Read a review!