10 Romantic Restaurants: A Wedding Venue’s Guide
Hello, I’m Diane. As the owner of a Jacksonville wedding venue, I know that a great love story is built on countless special moments, many of which happen over a shared meal. My husband, Glenn, and I have hosted hundreds of weddings on our family farm since 2017, and we’ve heard so many wonderful engagement and anniversary stories that began with a memorable dinner.
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in a truly special dining experience. For those seeking an evening of elegance, impeccable service, and unforgettable food, Jacksonville’s fine dining scene does not disappoint. These sought-after restaurants create an atmosphere of romance that’s ideal for celebrating your relationship, but their popularity means one thing is essential: a reservation.
Planning ahead is key to securing a table at one of these top-tier establishments. This guide highlights ten of the most romantic restaurants in Jacksonville where booking in advance is a must for a seamless and magical Valentine’s Day dinner.
Planning Your Perfect Valentine’s Dinner
Before we dive into the list, remember this crucial tip: book early. Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest nights of the year for restaurants. Most of these places open reservations 30 days or more in advance. I recommend calling or booking online at least three to four weeks ahead of February 14th to avoid disappointment. Many will also feature special prix-fixe menus for the occasion, so inquire about those details when you book.
1. Restaurant Orsay
Located in Avondale, Restaurant Orsay is a Jacksonville institution for romantic dining. It beautifully blends the lively atmosphere of a Parisian brasserie with the sophistication of modern French cuisine. The ambiance is upscale yet welcoming, with dim lighting and classic decor.
Why it’s romantic: From fresh oysters to classic dishes like Steak Frites, the food is consistently exceptional. Sharing a decadent dessert in this elegant setting makes for a quintessential Valentine’s night out. It has the kind of celebratory feel our couples love.
- Location: 3630 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
- Website: restaurantorsay.com
- Cost: $$$$ (Entrees typically $30-$50+)
- Hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 4pm-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm
- Parking: Complimentary valet parking is available.
2. Matthew’s Restaurant
For an evening of unparalleled culinary excellence, Matthew’s Restaurant in San Marco is the destination. As one of the city’s most acclaimed fine dining establishments, it offers a refined and intimate atmosphere perfect for a significant occasion.
Why it’s romantic: Chef Matthew Medure’s menu is a work of art. The multi-course tasting menu is a popular choice for special events, allowing you and your partner to embark on a shared culinary journey. It’s an experience designed to be savored.
- Location: 2107 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207
- Website: matthewsrestaurant.com
- Cost: $$$$ (Tasting menus start around $100+)
- Hours: Mon-Sat 5:30pm-10pm
- Parking: Valet parking and nearby street parking.
3. Cowford Chophouse
Situated in a historic downtown building, Cowford Chophouse delivers a grand and impressive dining experience. With its stunning architecture, rooftop bar offering panoramic city views, and a menu centered on prime steaks, it’s a place to see and be seen.
Why it’s romantic: The combination of historic elegance and modern luxury creates a dramatic backdrop. Start with cocktails on the rooftop at sunset before moving to the sophisticated dining room. This is the kind of show-stopping venue that inspires grand gestures.
- Location: 101 E Bay St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
- Website: cowfordchophouse.com
- Cost: $$$$ (Steaks range from $50+)
- Hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 4pm-11pm
- Parking: Valet parking is available, along with several paid lots and garages nearby.
4. Taverna
Taverna, in the heart of San Marco Square, serves rustic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting setting. The open kitchen and wood-fired pizza oven create a vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere.
Why it’s romantic: Sharing a plate of house-made pasta or a gourmet pizza is inherently romantic. Taverna offers food that is both comforting and refined. Its lively ambiance is great for couples who enjoy a more social, energetic dining experience.
- Location: 1986 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
- Website: tavernsanmarco.com
- Cost: $$$ (Entrees typically $20-$40)
- Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm
- Parking: Street parking in and around San Marco Square.
5. River & Post
Boasting one of the best views in Jacksonville, River & Post is a modern American restaurant with a stunning rooftop lounge overlooking the St. Johns River. The setting is contemporary, stylish, and undeniably impressive.
Why it’s romantic: The view alone is worth the reservation. Dining with a backdrop of glittering city lights on the water sets an incredibly romantic mood. A pre-dinner drink on the rooftop is a must.
- Location: 1000 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
- Website: riverandpostjax.com
- Cost: $$$ (Entrees typically $25-$45)
- Hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-12am; Fri 4pm-2am; Sat 11am-2am; Sun 10am-12am
- Parking: Complimentary valet service is provided.
6. Rue Saint-Marc
Nestled in San Marco, Rue Saint-Marc offers a taste of France with a modern twist. The interior is chic and thoughtfully designed, creating an intimate space that feels both trendy and timeless.
Why it’s romantic: The restaurant’s intimate scale makes it feel exclusive and personal. The menu, which often includes delicate seafood and rich meats, is perfect for a discerning palate. It’s ideal for quiet conversation over a beautifully prepared meal.
- Location: 2103 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
- Website: ruesaintmarc.com
- Cost: $$$ (Entrees typically $25-$40)
- Hours: Tue-Thu 5pm-9pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10pm
- Parking: Street parking available in the surrounding neighborhood.
7. Marker 32
For over 30 years, Marker 32 has been a go-to for waterfront dining with a focus on fresh, local seafood. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, the restaurant provides serene views and a classic, coastal ambiance.
Why it’s romantic: Watching the boats glide by as you enjoy expertly prepared fish is a peaceful and romantic experience. It reminds me of the serene views from our own farm, just with a saltwater twist!
- Location: 14549 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32250
- Website: marker32.com
- Cost: $$$ (Entrees typically $30-$50)
- Hours: Sun-Thu 5pm-9pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10pm
- Parking: Large private parking lot available for guests.
8. Ocean 60
A beloved Atlantic Beach establishment, Ocean 60 offers “continental cuisine with a coastal flair.” The restaurant has two distinct dining areas: a more formal, intimate room and a lively “martini room.”
Why it’s romantic: The courtyard, with its twinkling lights, is especially enchanting. The creative menu and award-winning wine list provide ample pairing opportunities. It’s a beachside favorite that feels like a special escape.
- Location: 60 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
- Website: ocean60.com
- Cost: $$$ (Entrees typically $30-$50)
- Hours: Open daily from 5pm.
- Parking: Valet parking available, plus street parking in the area.
9. Coop 303
Coop 303 is a stylish, two-story eatery in Atlantic Beach featuring Southern-inspired cuisine, modern cocktails, and inviting indoor and rooftop dining spaces. The ambiance balances charm and sophistication, making it an excellent choice for a romantic dinner date. The rooftop is especially popular for its open-air views and twinkling string lights.
Why it’s romantic: The cozy booths and rooftop atmosphere make intimate conversations easy, while inventive Southern dishes (like fried green tomatoes and shrimp & grits) feel indulgent and comforting. Toast to your love with a craft cocktail as you take in the lively Atlantic Beach neighborhood vibe.
- Location: 303 Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
- Website: coop303.com
- Cost: $$ (Entrees typically $18-$35)
- Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-10pm; Sat 10am-10pm; Sun 10am-9pm
- Parking: Free parking lot and ample street parking nearby.
10. Azurea at One Ocean Resort
Located in Atlantic Beach, Azurea offers an elegant oceanfront dining experience inside the luxurious One Ocean Resort. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
Why it’s romantic: Dining with the sound and sight of the ocean is the epitome of coastal romance. The chef-driven menu highlights local bounty in beautiful presentations. It is a true destination restaurant that makes any evening feel like a special getaway.
- Location: 1 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
- Website: oneoceanresort.com/azurea
- Cost: $$$$ (Entrees typically $40-$60+)
- Hours: Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dinner service starts at 5:30pm.
- Parking: Valet parking provided by the resort.
Let the Celebration Continue
A beautiful meal is a wonderful way to celebrate your love, and after that celebration, the next step is often planning the wedding! At All4One Farms, we believe in giving you the freedom to create a day that is a true reflection of your story. As an à la carte venue, we provide the stunning backdrop, from our open-air barn to our antique oak pews, and you bring in the vendors that match your style and budget.
We invite you to see if our farm is the perfect fit for your big day. You can schedule a tour, use our price calculator to see transparent pricing, or contact us for more information. For more visual ideas, please visit our photo gallery.
Happy planning,
Diane
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All4One Farms is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
- Maidenwood, Maidenwood Blog,
- The Barn at Magnolia Farm,
- The Barn at Green Garden Farm,
- Little Tennessee Farm,
- Caribou Bay Retreat,
