Dining on the Go, Depending on the Weather

Where Northeast Florida locals eat when it's hot, chilly, rainy or just perfect outdoors.

Northeast Florida weather can be fickle. One minute it's sunny, the next it's raining, and during this time of year, it might also be freezing, all in the same day. So, where might you go when the weather is...weathering? We asked Northeast Florida locals just that: where they like to eat, given specific weather conditions; really hot, cold, rainy and perfect. Their dining recommendations span the full breadth of where we live and eat, each tailored to specific weather conditions.

Each recommended place is from a local who has learned through experience exactly where they want to be when the clouds shift or the temperature fluctuates. From fried chicken on cold nights to legendary patios in sunshine, these are the spots that make our region's food culture what it is. Next time you check the forecast and wonder where to eat, let this guide from your neighbors help you. The best meal is always the one that matches the weather and the mood it puts you in. Do you have a go-to spot for a specific weather condition? Tell us where you like to eat and tag us @edibleneflorida.

JOSEPHINE, AVONDALE

Haley Davis @thehaleydavis

DOCKSIDE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT, JACKSONVILLE BEACH

“Our favorite place to go on a perfect-weather day is Dockside, where the atmosphere is easy-going and coastal. It’s the perfect spot for an East Coast sunset view.”

Cheyenne and Chawnee @shopcheyandhchawn

LA BODEGA ORIGINAL, LAKESHORE

“When it’s perfect weather here in Jacksonville, my favorite place to eat is La Bodega Original. This Puerto Rican restaurant reminds me of being back on the island. They have the best mofongo and pork in town.”

Yanira Yaya Cardona @yayalovejax

THE BRIX, JACKSONVILLE BEACH

Devin James Carvajal @devincarvajal

THE DISTRICT SPR, SPRINGFIELD

“When it’s perfect outside, I love heading to The District and settling into their Peacock Garden. It feels like stepping into someone’s cozy backyard, bright, welcoming, and full of that Springfield charm.”

Bryana Dunn @Travelwelldunn

ROYAL PALM VILLAGE WINE AND TAPAS, ATLANTIC BEACH

Philip Bennet Walker @philipbennettwalker

THE REEF, ST. AUGUSTINE

Rance Adams @ranceadamsmedia

OAXACA CLUB, JACKSONVILLE BEACH

Bethany @artdarlingjax

TAQUERIA CINCO, RIVERSIDE

“Taqueria Cinco is my wife’s and my favorite summertime eatery. The food is always fresh and delicious, and we absolutely love the outdoor seating in their beautiful plant oasis.”

Chef Onyx @chefonyxseven

LUCKY CAT DIM SUM, MANDARIN

Jeffery @spearwrites

MALACHI’S ICE CREAM BAR, RIVERSIDE

Chanelle @breezefeeds

SLIDER’S OYSTER BAR, NEPTUNE BEACH

“When it’s hot outside, I really like to go to Slider’s and get a tray of oysters and a bloody mary. It’s the perfect place to watch people walk by and take in some sun.”

Shannon @shannonrosegreene

BILLY JACK’S BBQ, MAYPORT

Malcolm @malcjax

MEZCAL SPIRIT OF OAXACA, FERNANDINA BEACH

Yoanna @yomania

DOROTHY’S DOWNTOWN, JACKSONVILLE

“My favorite restaurant for cozy nights is Dorothy’s Downtown. Their red beans and rice are the best I’ve had – pure comfort during this time of year.”

Ashley Sachiko @bossfidence

SAINT, ST. AUGUSTINE

“Saint in downtown St. Augustine is fantastic to visit anytime of year for their views of the bay. But particularly in the fall and winter, they have a great outdoor courtyard with fire pits.”

Christina Swyers @therealchristinaswyers

ORSAY, AVONDALE

Dani Colding @thecoldcraftsman

MESA, AVONDALE

“Mesa is a cozy haven that chases away a chilly night the moment you step inside. Every dish on the menu features rich flavors and thoughtfully selected seasonal ingredients.”

Dea Howald @deahowald

CONGAREE AND PENN, NORTHWEST JACKSONVILLE

Emily Dunkley @emilydunkleycreative

MAKENU, ATLANTIC BEACH

Katie Sims @misskatiemae

13 GYPSIES, RIVERSIDE

“My favorite cozy spot for rich, delicious, soul-warming small plates has always been our neighborhood staple, 13 Gypsies. The roasted potatoes, spicy pasta and mushroom Sevilla paired with a perfect glass of red wine are chef ’s kiss.”

Tenley Dietrich @tenleydietrich

CHANCHO KING, MURRAY HILL

Brandon Alexander Boudreau @boudreauwineeco

NOURA’S, LAKEWOOD

Gabrielle Magid @strongerthanstigma

SALUMERIA, ATLANTIC BEACH

Jadyn Nottingham @jadynnottingham

1748 BAKEHOUSE, SPRINGFIELD

“As soon as it rains or dips below 72 degrees, I head to 1748 Bakehouse in Springfield for their soup. They offer two selections daily, one with meat and one without, and they frequently change varieties.”

Heather Schatz @hbschatz

MEZZA LUNA, NEPTUNE BEACH

“There’s nothing better than Mezza Luna’s covered patio during a rainstorm: the soft glow of string lights against wooden beams, a Hugo Spritz in hand and Sinatra on the speakers.”

Madison Delaney Dawson @madisondelaney____

COMMUNITY LOAVES, MURRAY HILL

Victoria Asprey @__victoriamoronta

DOMU, TOWN CENTER

Shanti Hollis @somethingnewwithshanti