The 6 Best Restaurants In Jacksonville North Carolina

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Jacksonville is a nice military town like most of the suburban United States with plenty of cultural diversity and a constant flow of military folk so there are always new things popping up across town and there is plenty to do in the area around Jacksonville given all the historical towns nearby. 

With its proximity to the coast, we thoroughly enjoyed activities like fishing, boating, and exploring nearby beaches. Additionally, the city has parks, nature trails, and outdoor recreational spaces that will leave you breathless. 

And when it comes to food, this beautiful city has plenty of options for your appetites. 

The food scene in Jacksonville, NC is quite amazing. The city offers a cornucopia of international cuisine that will surprise and delight you. 

Here are some of the restaurants we choose for you. Hope you are going to visit them and enjoy the variety of dining options that reflect the city’s diverse population and coastal location. 

Top 3 Restaurants In Jacksonville North Carolina

Restaurant	Top Pick	Our Rating
Marrakesh Mediterranean Cuisine	fried cauliflower	5/5
Elsa’s Place	fried chicken & mac & cheese	4.5/5
The Kettle Diner	mozzarella sticks	4/5

The 6 Best Jacksonville North Carolina Restaurants

Marrakesh Mediterranean Cuisine

409 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546, United States  +19102190229

There was nothing that I didn’t like about this place, it is a pure heaven for all of you who love Mediterranean cuisine with rich flavors embarking on brave adventures during the journey of exploring tastes and odors. 

Marrakesh Mediterranean Cuisine in Jacksonville offers a delightful culinary journey to the vibrant and exotic flavors of Morocco. 

From the moment you step inside, the restaurant’s warm and inviting ambiance transports you to the bustling streets of Marrakech.

The menu boasts a tantalizing array of Mediterranean and North African dishes, each thoughtfully prepared with an authentic touch. 

We started our meal with a platter of mezze, which featured creamy hummus, smoky baba ganoush, and flavorful tabbouleh. The falafel was a standout, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

For the main course, we couldn’t resist trying their signature tagines. The Lamb Tagine was a highlight, with succulent pieces of lamb slow-cooked with aromatic spices and dried fruits. 

The Chicken Tagine was equally impressive, tender and fragrant with saffron and preserved lemons. The accompanying fluffy couscous was a perfect complement to the rich stews.

I also loved the fried cauliflower. It was coated in a seasoned batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. It is a vegetarian or vegan alternative to traditional fried dishes and it was loved by my friend who is vegan.

In conclusion, Marrakesh Mediterranean Cuisine is a gem in Jacksonville, offering an authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine with warm hospitality.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a newcomer to Mediterranean flavors, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving for more.

Capt. Bob Beck’s Marina Cafe

 110 S Marine Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28540, United States  +19109382002

We all love clean and marvelous water, the smell of sunscreen and the relaxing views on the ambiance along the coast.

We sat for hours on the relaxed dockside of this restaurant, a perfect spot for seafood, burgers and fried snacks.

We especially love the riverboat cruises allowing us to embrace the freedom this place offers to its visitors.  In Capt. Bob Beck’s Marina cafe you will find entertainment, great food, and delicious rinks. 

This place is a hidden gem tucked away on the waterfront, offering a delightful dining experience with a picturesque view of the marina. 

We were all the time gifted with warm hospitality and a laid-back atmosphere that set the tone for a relaxing meal. 

The cafe’s location couldn’t be more perfect, providing a serene setting to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner by the water. The outdoor seating area was especially inviting, allowing us to bask in the cool breeze while savoring our meal.

We split the Captain Sampler and Chicken nachos as entries. 

For the main course, the seafood platter was a true highlight. 

We had perfectly fried shrimp, tender scallops, and flaky white fish, all cooked to perfection and accompanied by a side of crispy fries and coleslaw. Each bite was a delicious reminder of the coastal charm that this restaurant exudes.

Other recommended dishes from our side are; Key Lime Pie, Peanut Butter Pie, Crab Legs, Fried Shrimp and Hushpuppies, Seafood Platter, Hush Puppies. A real heaven for your palate.

Capt. Bob Beck’s Marina Cafe offers a charming and enjoyable dining experience for seafood enthusiasts and those looking to unwind by the water.

With its inviting ambiance, delicious food, and attentive service, it is a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal with family and friends. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this waterside gem is definitely worth a visit.

Ducks Grille & Bar

1207 Gum Branch Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540, United States  +19104559128

Ducks Grille & Bar is a popular restaurant located in Jacksonville, North Carolina. It is known for its casual and inviting atmosphere, offering a diverse menu with a focus on American comfort food and bar favorites.

In this lovely and cozy restaurant, we enjoyed a broad range of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, steaks, and seafood options. Also, they have an extensive selection of appetizers and desserts.

As the name suggests, Ducks Grille & Bar likely has a bar section offering a variety of drinks. We enjoyed various beers on tap, craft beers, cocktails, and wine. And we feel a little tipsy but in a positive way that brings us the simplicity of life.

Ducks Grille & Bar is often seen as a family-friendly establishment, suitable for casual dining with kids and groups.

We were a group of friends that had an amazing time,talking, eating and drinking, surrounded by attentive and friendly staff, one of the greatest features this restaurant has.

And when it comes to food, this place has really talented people that prepare tasty food with fresh and seasonal ingredients.

We ordered Salmon and the featured swordfish. 

Other dishes we tried and recommended are Risotto and Lollipop Lamb Chops.

For dessert, I had Cheesecake and Chocolate cake. The cheesecake was a rich and indulgent dessert that had a creamy and smooth texture, made with cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and a graham cracker crust. It had a deliciously decadent flavor and was  served in a very creative  style.

Other masterpieces this restaurant has are Crab Dip, Shrimp and Grits, Chicken Wings, Red Velvet Cheesecake, Chicken and Waffles, Bang Bang Shrimp.

Absolutely amazing place with a phenomenal good and a great atmosphere. Would definitely recommend it as a date night place. It is super cozy, fancy, and definitely gives off romantic restaurant vibes. And of course the food is something you will not forget and will inspire you to book a flight immediately for Jacksonville, North Carolina.

The Kettle Diner

300 Marine Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28540, United States +19104557739 

We had a delightful journey in The Kettle Diner in Jacksonville, North Carolina. 

From the moment we stepped inside, the retro ambiance and welcoming staff immediately transported us to a bygone era. The old-fashioned style, complete with vinyl booths and neon lights, added a touch of nostalgia that made our dining experience even more special.

We started our meal with the Kettle Classic Sampler, a generous platter of crispy onion rings, gooey mozzarella sticks, and savory chicken wings. It was the perfect way to kick off our diner experience, and we loved sharing the appetizers with our group.

For the main course, we ordered their signature Kettle Burger and the Philly Cheesesteak. The Kettle Burger was a juicy and perfectly cooked patty, topped with all the classic fixings and served with a side of golden fries. 

The Philly Cheesesteak was equally impressive, with tender beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, all packed into a soft hoagie roll. Both dishes hit the spot and left us feeling completely satisfied.

The milkshakes at The Kettle Diner deserve a special mention. Creamy, thick, and generously topped with whipped cream and a cherry, they were the perfect accompaniment to our meal, taking us back to the good old days of soda fountains and diners.

Other dishes we recommend are Buttermilk Pancakes, Salads, Bacon Cheese Fries, Fish Tacos, Chicken-Fried Steak, Chicken and Waffles Breakfast.

The bacon cheese fries was a mouthwatering dish that combined the savory goodness of bacon, the rich creaminess of cheese, and the crispy texture of fries. It was our comfort food with indulgent flavors and a satisfying combination of ingredients.

The service was friendly and efficient, with the staff embodying the spirit of classic diner hospitality. Our food arrived promptly, and our server made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal.

In conclusion, The Kettle Diner in Jacksonville is a hidden gem that captures the essence of a classic American diner. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or simply craving delicious diner food, The Kettle Diner is a must-visit spot. We left with smiles on our faces and hearts full of fond memories, eager to return for another taste of the past.

Logan’s Roadhouse

1177 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546, United States  +19109380905

Logan’s Roadhouse is a popular restaurant chain with a location in Jacksonville, North Carolina. 

Logan’s Roadhouse offered a casual and welcoming ambiance, with a rustic and laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant’s interior features wood and country-style decor, creating a cozy and comfortable setting.

We were amused by the wide selection of grilled steaks and other American classics. The menu  includes a variety of hand-cut steaks, ribs, burgers, and chicken dishes, all seasoned and prepared to perfection. Many of their dishes incorporate the smoky flavors of a wood-fire grill.

Several nights in a row we visited a full bar with a variety of cocktails, beers, and other beverages to complement the meal. And it was amazingly complement to our exceptionally tasty dinner.

We ordered Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, Everything Salad, Filet Mignon and Shrimp. The filet mignon was with tenderness, juiciness, and exceptional flavor.

Another standout was Loaded potato skins as a delicious appetizer or snack made from potato halves that are scooped out and filled with a savory and flavorful mixture of toppings.

They were backed crisp crispy and golden, resulting in a mouthwatering dish.

We’re thrilled to experience this place that left us craving endlessly for the food. We hope we will visit this place again soon.

Elsa’s Place

610 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540, United States  +19103461652

Our visit to Elsa’s Place in Jacksonville, North Carolina, was a delightful experience from start to finish. 

It was an unforgettable experience with an amazing enjoyment of homestyle Caribbean fare, plus simple American comfort food.

Tucked away in a charming corner, the restaurant exuded a welcoming and cozy atmosphere that immediately put us at ease. With its friendly staff and homestyle decor, Elsa’s Place felt like a true hidden gem.

The menu at Elsa’s Place boasted a selection of homestyle dishes that reminded us of comfort food cooked with love. 

From the first bite to the last, we savored every flavor, appreciating the familiar tastes that reminded us of home-cooked meals.

The warmth of Southern hospitality was evident in the attentive and friendly service we received throughout our meal. The staff at Elsa’s Place made us feel like valued guests, taking the time to chat and ensure our dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

The highlights of our meal were undoubtedly the signature dishes. The Fried Chicken was a standout, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, seasoned just right. The Macaroni and Cheese was a heavenly indulgence, with gooey cheese and a hint of smokiness that made it unforgettable.

I also got Jerk Chicken with Green Beans and Collard Greens. The jerk chicken was really good, it had Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Peppers mixed with the chicken and rice. 

The homemade desserts at Elsa’s Place were the perfect ending to our meal. We couldn’t resist trying their famous Pecan Pie, and it did not disappoint. The pie’s buttery crust and rich pecan filling were the perfect sweet note to conclude our dining experience.

The strawberry cake that came with the meal was really moist and had great flavor.

Elsa’s Place in Jacksonville is a delightful destination for those seeking homestyle comfort food served with genuine Southern hospitality. 

From the welcoming ambiance to the mouthwatering dishes, Elsa’s Place leaves a lasting impression. We left with smiles on our faces and full hearts, eager to return for another taste of their delightful creations.

FAQ

What kind of restaurants in Jacksonville North Carolina can we expect? 

Jacksonville, North Carolina, offered a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes and preferences. You can expect to find  Southern and Soul Food taking into account  its location in the southeastern United States, you can expect to find restaurants offering delicious Southern and Soul Food dishes.

These may include classics like fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and BBQ. Seafood is not an exception. Jacksonville is near the coast, so you’ll likely find plenty of seafood restaurants offering fresh catches of fish, shrimp, oysters, crab, and other local seafood delicacies.

If you’re a fan of grilled meats, steakhouses in Jacksonville will offer a range of high-quality steaks, along with various sides and accompaniments.

Italian restaurants offering pasta, pizza, and other Italian specialties can also be found in Jacksonville.

Are these restaurants expensive?

The cost of dining in restaurants in Jacksonville, North Carolina, can vary depending on the type of restaurant, the level of service, and the specific dishes offered. Generally, Jacksonville is a mid-sized city in a relatively affordable region of North Carolina, so dining prices are often more reasonable compared to larger urban areas.

Keep in mind that the concept of “expensive” is subjective and can vary depending on individual budgets and expectations.

Some visitors or residents might find certain restaurants more expensive than others based on their personal preferences and spending habits.

Are there any fast food restaurants that could be found in this area?

Fast food restaurants are typically the most budget-friendly option, with many offering value meals and combo deals. So yes, you can find plenty of options when it comes to fast food guilty summer pleasures that always make us palates to scream. 

Conclusion: The 6 Best Restaurants In Jacksonville North Carolina

In conclusion, Jacksonville, North Carolina, offers a diverse range of restaurants catering to various tastes and preferences. As a mid-sized city in an affordable region of North Carolina, the dining scene generally offers reasonably priced options for residents and visitors alike.

Depending on the area’s demographics, you might find restaurants serving other international cuisines like Indian, Greek, Middle Eastern, or Korean.

Dine out on the freshest seafood, devour the best hot dogs, or indulge in a wide variety of international cuisines. We guarantee that these Jacksonville NC restaurants will keep your palate on its toes.