Rooftop Dining With a View

While other parts of the country may be layering on sweaters and coats as they head to holiday gatherings, typically in Northeast Florida the weather in fall and winter is prime for outdoor entertaining. And if there is a chill in the air (ahem, 60 degrees…) heaters are cranked for comfort. This holiday season, elevate your celebration and head to one of these rooftop restaurants. Then sit back while you enjoy the views of sunsets, waterways and twinkling lights and share a fabulous meal with your favorite people.

BLACK SHEEP RESTAURANT 1534 Oak Street, Jacksonville | @blacksheep5points
You’ll find plenty of fresh, local ingredients on the menu at this rooftop spot in Five Points. Views of Riverside, Downtown Jacksonville and the nearby river are the backdrop while enjoying contemporary American cuisine at brunch or dinner. Order several dishes and share, if you can bear to part with favorites such as Wild Georgia Shrimp and Grits and Green Hill Ravioli. The seasonal dessert menu always has a delectable sweet to finish off your meal.

CASA MARINA 691 1st Street N, Jacksonville Beach | @casamarinahotel
If you’re looking for vacation at the beach vibes, this oceanfront penthouse lounge is the spot for you. Views of the beach, cocktails (including an impressive martini selection), sangrias and a full dinner menu – sounds like the perfect spot to enjoy a getaway. And if your weekend is not complete without a brunch outing, stop by the Penthouse, and try the Rooftop Bloody Mary, featuring Two Titmice Vodka.

COOP 303 303 Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach | @coop303ab
Located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center and a short stroll from the beach, Coop 303 serves classic dishes with a contemporary twist. Al fresco dining up on the rooftop garden is your chance to enjoy ocean breezes and signature cocktails along with favorite dishes such as Loaded Tater Tots, Coop 303 Fried Chicken Basket and Grilled Portobello Mushroom with Cauliflower Fritters.

COWFORD CHOPHOUSE 101 E Bay Street, Jacksonville | @cowfordchophouse
Set atop the beautifully renovated historic Bostwick Building, the patio at this downtown steakhouse is the place to be for fine dining and Southbank skyline vistas. Start your meal with appetizers from the raw bar; the restaurant prides itself on its selection of oysters from around the country. Cowford cuts include American Wagyu Filet or Spinalis, 28-Day Dry-Aged Tomahawk and a 40-ounce Porterhouse. Oenophiles will find plenty to enjoy on the extensive wine menu.

ESTRELLA COCINA 100 W Bay Street, Jacksonville | @estrellajax
Ready to escape to Baja, at least for an evening? Set your compass for Estrella Cocina on the 7th floor of the VyStar Credit Union campus in Downtown Jacksonville. Savor coastal Mexican cuisine while you enjoy views of the Jacksonville skyline and St. Johns River. There are plenty of specialty cocktails with local spirits, such as the Flor de Cielo featuring Manifest’s Botanical Gin. Don’t sleep on the Grilled Cactus & Citrus Salad or the Camarones en Mojo de Ajo, and be sure to save room for something sweet like Dulce De Leche Chocolate Mousse.

RIVER & POST 1000 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville | @riverandpostjax
If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood and sensational adult beverages, head to Riverside and watch the boat traffic on the St. Johns River from the 9th floor patio at River & Post. Be sure to ask about the seasonal cocktail or head straight to the Manifest Destiny featuring vodka from Manifest Distilling. And if the temperature dips a bit? No worries, just grab a spot on one of the couches and cozy up to the fire pits.

PRATI ITALIA 4972 Big Island Drive, Jacksonville | @pratiitaliajax
If you're looking for local flavors when shopping at St. Johns Town Center, be sure to check out Prati Italia. Led by Chef Tom Gray and his culinary team, you will surely have a distinct dining experience with a contemporary menu of Roman-Style pizzas, housemade pastas, and expertly-crafted artisan cocktails. The upstairs open terrace is protected when the weather is less than ideal, and the downstairs patio is perfect for happy hour or al fresco dinners.