When it comes to planning a trip to Daytona Beach, Florida, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to eat. With its rich racing heritage, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, Daytona Beach has a lot to offer visitors. But, let’s be real, no trip is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to eat in Daytona Beach, from seafood restaurants to diners, and everything in between.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Daytona Beach’s Culinary Scene
Daytona Beach’s culinary scene is a reflection of its coastal location and rich cultural heritage. You’ll find a mix of traditional Floridian cuisine, fresh seafood, and Southern comfort food, all infused with a hint of international flair. From casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Types of Cuisine to Expect
In Daytona Beach, you can expect to find a wide range of cuisines, including:
- Fresh seafood, straight from the Atlantic Ocean
- Traditional Floridian dishes, such as grouper sandwiches and conch fritters
- Southern comfort food, including barbecue and soul food
- International cuisine, including Italian, Mexican, and Asian fusion
In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the best places to eat in Daytona Beach, including top-rated restaurants, hidden gems, and local favorites. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a quick bite on the go, we’ve got you covered.
Where to Eat in Daytona Beach, FL
Daytona Beach, a popular tourist destination in Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches, racing heritage, and vibrant cultural scene. When it comes to dining, Daytona Beach offers a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to Southern comfort food, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Daytona Beach has it all. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Daytona Beach, FL, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you plan your dining itinerary.
Beachside Eats
Daytona Beach is famous for its 23 miles of coastline, and what better way to enjoy the beach than with a delicious meal at a beachside restaurant? Here are some top picks:
- The Ocean Deck Beach Club: Located right on the beach, this casual eatery serves up fresh seafood, burgers, and sandwiches, along with stunning ocean views.
- The Beach Bucket: This beachside bar and grill is a local favorite, offering a menu of tasty pub fare, including fish tacos, burgers, and wings.
- The Shores Resort & Spa’s Azure: For a more upscale beachside dining experience, head to Azure, which serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Seafood Lovers’ Paradise
Daytona Beach is renowned for its fresh seafood, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving up the catch of the day. Here are some top seafood spots: (See Also: Where To Eat In Honolulu Waikiki)
- The Oyster Pub: This casual, waterfront eatery has been a Daytona Beach institution for over 40 years, serving up fresh oysters, shrimp, and fish in a variety of ways.
- Joe’s Crab Shack: This popular chain has a location in Daytona Beach, offering a menu of seafood favorites, including crab legs, fish, and shrimp.
- The Fish Company: For a more upscale seafood experience, head to The Fish Company, which serves fresh, sustainable seafood in a stylish setting.
Southern Comfort Food
Southern comfort food is a staple of Daytona Beach’s culinary scene, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving up classic dishes like fried chicken, grits, and biscuits. Here are some top picks:
- The Cracked Egg Diner: This popular breakfast spot serves up Southern favorites like chicken and waffles, grits, and biscuits and gravy.
- Bob’s BBQ: For a taste of traditional Southern barbecue, head to Bob’s BBQ, which serves up tender meats, sides, and desserts.
- The Breakfast Club: This retro-style diner serves up creative breakfast dishes, including Southern favorites like chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits.
International Cuisine
Daytona Beach may be known for its Southern roots, but the city also offers a diverse range of international cuisine. Here are some top picks:
- La Piazza Café: For a taste of Italy, head to La Piazza Café, which serves up authentic dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto.
- Sakura Japanese Restaurant: This family-owned Japanese restaurant serves up fresh sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese favorites.
- La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant: For a flavorful taste of Mexico, head to La Fiesta, which serves up tacos, burritos, and other Mexican classics.
Foodie Favorites
Daytona Beach is home to a thriving foodie scene, with plenty of restaurants offering unique and creative dishes. Here are some top picks:
- The Cellar: This upscale restaurant serves up creative, farm-to-table cuisine, including dishes like foie gras and filet mignon.
- The Garlic: This popular restaurant serves up gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and salads, along with a wide selection of craft beers.
- The Original Café: This cozy café serves up creative breakfast and lunch dishes, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Food Trucks
Food trucks are a popular trend in Daytona Beach, offering a convenient and affordable way to try a variety of cuisines. Here are some top food truck picks:
- Tropical Treats: This food truck serves up delicious ice cream and other sweet treats.
- Cluckin’ Good: This food truck specializes in gourmet chicken dishes, including sandwiches and salads.
- The Taco Spot: For a flavorful taste of Mexico, head to The Taco Spot, which serves up tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Daytona Beach is home to a variety of breakfast and brunch spots, offering everything from classic eggs and pancakes to creative dishes like breakfast tacos and quiche. Here are some top picks: (See Also: Where To Eat In Antigua Guatemala)
- The Donut Hole: This popular breakfast spot serves up fresh donuts, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches.
- The Bistro on Granada: This upscale breakfast and brunch spot serves up creative dishes like eggs benedict and quiche.
- First Watch: This popular breakfast chain has a location in Daytona Beach, serving up fresh, made-to-order breakfast dishes.
Recap and Recommendations
In conclusion, Daytona Beach offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to Southern comfort food, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Daytona Beach has something for everyone. Here are some top recommendations:
- For a beachside dining experience, head to The Ocean Deck Beach Club or The Beach Bucket.
- For fresh seafood, try The Oyster Pub or The Fish Company.
- For Southern comfort food, head to The Cracked Egg Diner or Bob’s BBQ.
- For international cuisine, try La Piazza Café or Sakura Japanese Restaurant.
- For a unique dining experience, head to The Cellar or The Garlic.
We hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the best places to eat in Daytona Beach, FL. Whether you’re looking for a casual beachside meal or a more upscale dining experience, Daytona Beach has something for everyone. Bon appétit!
Restaurant | Cuisine | Location |
---|---|---|
The Ocean Deck Beach Club | Seafood | Beachside |
The Beach Bucket | Pub Fare | Beachside |
The Oyster Pub | Seafood | Waterfront |
The Cracked Egg Diner | Southern Comfort Food | Downtown |
La Piazza Café | Italian | Downtown |
The Cellar | Fine Dining | Downtown |
Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and there are many more restaurants and eateries to explore in Daytona Beach. Be sure to check out online reviews and make reservations in advance, especially during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Daytona Beach, FL
What are some popular seafood restaurants in Daytona Beach?
Daytona Beach is known for its fresh seafood, and some popular spots include Joe’s Crab Shack, The Oyster Pub, and The Shrimp Basket. These restaurants offer a variety of seafood dishes, from fish tacos to lobster rolls, and are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.
Are there any restaurants in Daytona Beach that offer outdoor seating with a view?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Daytona Beach that offer outdoor seating with a beautiful view of the ocean. Some popular options include The Ocean Deck Beach Club, which has a large outdoor patio overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and The Cellar, which has a rooftop bar with stunning views of the beach.
What are some budget-friendly dining options in Daytona Beach?
If you’re looking for affordable dining options in Daytona Beach, consider trying some of the local favorites like Racing’s North Turn, which serves up classic American fare at reasonable prices, or The Cracked Egg Diner, which offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options at a budget-friendly price point. (See Also: Where To Eat In Mankato)
Are there any restaurants in Daytona Beach that cater to special diets, such as gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Daytona Beach that cater to special diets. For example, The Vegan Cafe offers a completely plant-based menu, while The Garden Cafe has a separate gluten-free menu. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm their options.
What are some popular breakfast spots in Daytona Beach?
Daytona Beach has a variety of popular breakfast spots to start your day off right. Some local favorites include The Cracked Egg Diner, which serves up omelets, pancakes, and more, and First Watch, which offers a menu of breakfast and brunch items made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.