One of a handful of nondescript strip malls lining Mayport Road that belie the culinary delights within, this particular parcel includes a distillery, a popular taproom/pizza spot, a MICHELIN-recommended breakfast restaurant and a by-reservation only tiki-themed speakeasy | Matt Shaw, Jacksonville Today
Published on September 16, 2026 at 4:14 pm
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Incorporated as a city in 1909, Mayport is part of Jacksonville’s Beaches community and has long ties to the local fishing and shipping industry. As the main corridor through the neighborhood, Mayport Road, aka Jimmy Buffet Memorial Highway, aka State Road A1A, is where much of the business sector sits. This stretch of highway between Atlantic Boulevard and the Mayport Ferry is lined with strip malls and has an understated, beachy vibe. There’s a great surf culture juxtaposed with the presence of nearby Naval Station Mayport personnel and remnants of a vibrant fishing harbor.
If your only connection to Mayport Road has been while driving to Hanna Park, it’s time to slow down and get a taste of this beachside community. Those nondescript strip malls belie a culinary mélange, from Filipino to Thai, build-your-own pizza to craft sandwiches. There are still a few fishing boats unloading at Mayport Village, so you’re sure to find some fresh shrimp and fish on the local menus.
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Eat
Choi’s Chinese Food Drive Thru | $
With its extensive menu of Asian, Cantonese and other Chinese dishes for take-out and delivery, Choi’s is a hidden gem and has become a staple in the neighborhood for two decades.
Eggboy | $
This breakfast and brunch restaurant was recently recognized in the MICHELIN Guide for Florida, for good reason. Try one of their best-selling sandwiches featuring house-made sauces (red-eye aioli or creamy hollandaise) and add a cortadito or café con leche for a jolt of caffeine.
Pho Viet | $
A hidden gem, Pho Viet is known for its delicious Vietnamese cuisine served in a cozy and friendly atmosphere. The menu features authentic dishes that highlight traditional flavors, making it a favorite among locals. Guests can enjoy a variety of appetizers, including the popular Cha Gio, as well as a selection of flavorful pho and grilled pork dishes.
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The Juicy Seafood Mayport | $$
A casual setting for lunch and dinner, fresh seafood is the star here (try the Low Country Boil) along with wings, Japanese hibachi and a full bar to accompany your meal.
Col. Mustard’s Phabulous Smash Burgers | $
Formerly known as Dano’s Diner, Col. Mustard’s menu features breakfast and lunch favorites including a variety of pancakes, Redneck Benedict (English muffin, poached eggs and sausage covered in sausage gravy) and The Original Col. Mustard’s Phat Burgers: smash burgers with an inventive selection of toppings.
Sub Cultured | $
What started as a cart in front of Home Depot has grown into a takeout spot beloved for grilled and pressed craft sandwiches. Splurge and add an order of Obscene Poutine to your meal, one of several specialty fries on the menu.
Pie Heaven Bakery Café | $$
This tiny bakery set in a remodeled cottage cranks out a huge selection of savory and sweet pies, along with seasonal specials. Pick up a whole pie or a variety of slices. Pro tip: If tomato basil cheddar souffle is on the menu, grab one. You won’t be sorry.
Tony Pepperoni Pizza Bar | $$
Italian food for delivery, take out or dine in. The menu provides something for all appetites, including pasta, build-your-own pizza, calzones, wings, salads and subs. Save room for the New York-style cheesecake drizzled with raspberry.
Casa Leon Mexican Cuisine | $$
A staple in Mayport since 2012, the loyal clientele comes to Casa Leon for the casual vibe and the burritos, tacos, enchiladas and other classic Mexican food. A selection of flavorful margaritas come in pitcher size, perfect for the table.
Simply Tasty Thai | $$
Chef-owner Nancy grew up in northern Thailand, and she brings an authentic flavor to each dish, making every curry, sauce and signature dish from scratch. Watch for seasonal specials, like sticky rice with fresh mango.
Cabalen Restaurant | $$
The small Asian-Filipino menu includes lumpia, pancit, kare-kare and palabok in a casual, friendly setting. Save room for the halo-halo dessert.
Hangar Bay Café and Gallery | $$
If you can’t decide whether you want ramen or fried chicken for dinner, head to Hangar Bay. Owner Chris Straw settled on this combo when he retired from the Navy and realized there were no restaurants serving either of those dishes on Mayport Road. Be sure to peruse the naval aviation art gallery and memorabilia throughout the space.
Reve Brewing and Bones Pizza | $$
A brewery, taproom and wood-fired pizza kitchen. For extra flavor, try one of the crust dippers, like the house truffle aioli or Sub Cultured ranch. Watch for their annual Tiki Weeki event in August, with drink and food specials.
A&A Ice Cream | $
Hand-scooped ice cream in a variety of classic and gourmet flavors (Dreamsicle, Insta Graham, Caramel Macchiato), along with sundaes, shakes, floats, smoothies and the ultimate banana split.
Olympia Café | $$
Pizza reigns supreme here, with an impressive selection of toppings. In the mood for Greek food? Try the pita bread appetizer with olives, pepperoncini, dolmades and a side of tzatziki, chicken souvlaki or the classic Greek salad.
Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant | $$
The waterfront view at this casual spot alongside the St. Johns River includes boats offloading fresh-caught seafood. Mayport shrimp stars in the restaurant’s signature platter. Or try seasonal fish, oysters and lobster as a po’ boy.
Singleton’s Seafood Shack | $$
Open since 1969, this rustic and casual Mayport institution serves fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes with a side of stunning sunsets. Watch the sun put on a unique show every night on Singleton’s expansive west-facing deck overlooking the St. Johns River.
Drink
Grey Matter Distillery | $$
Founded in 2014, this is Jacksonville’s first craft distillery, producing and bottling Carve Craft Vodka, Live Oak Whiskey, Mayport Moonshine and Ribault Rum. Tours, tastings and an extensive menu of craft cocktails are available at the distillery, along with trivia, live music and other monthly events.
Harbor Tavern | $
A no-frills neighborhood dive bar with great service, a well-stocked juke box and an eclectic clientele. Check their social media for their free pool night and other specials.
VooSwar Restaurant and Lounge | $
A community gathering spot since 1963, this casual lounge features an indoor tiki bar, live music, colorful murals by local artists, pool tables and light-up dance floor. Try the fried pork chop sandwich or wings, both crowd favorites.
Mayport Brewing Co. | $
A neighborhood sports bar and brewery with an extensive selection of beer (40 taps), a full liquor and wine bar, pool tables, trivia and duckpin bowling lanes. Food offered by The Burger Galaxy, the resident food truck.
Zap Cat | $
Along with pastries made by local bakeries, this coffee shop serves espresso and pour over drinks made with a rotating selection of specialty coffee beans from around the world. Check the retail shelf for featured beans.
Cap’n Odies | $
A local dive bar with darts, pool tables, comedy nights, karaoke, live music and juke box. Hot dogs, dips, chips, mac ‘n cheese and other bar snacks available.
Mayport Garden Club | $$
Open Thursday-Saturday, this reservation-only speakeasy lounge specializes in tiki drinks and all things tropical. The hand-crafted cocktails feature fresh ingredients, curated rums and house made spirits and cordials.
Island Girl Taproom and Lounge | $
A cigar bar with a selection of craft beer, cocktails, pool tables and a humidor, along with cigars for sale, happy hour specials and live music.
1985 Coffee Shop & Events | $
Cozy coffee and event spot serving hot and cold beverages, an assortment of pastries and a merchandise section with caffeine related items. Check their social media for monthly flight specials and events.
Coconut Key Coffee & Sundries | $
Stop by for a specialty coffee, breakfast sandwich and pastry, then pick up any last-minute essentials for a day on the beach. The chocolate chip cookies are some of the best around – be sure to get one warmed up.
