Daytona Beach, Florida, is renowned for its stunning coastline, thrilling NASCAR races, and a culinary scene that’s as diverse as it is delicious. This coastal city offers an array of dining options that cater to various tastes and budgets. Let’s explore some of the top restaurants that make Daytona Beach a food lover’s paradise.

Seafood Sensations

Hull’s Seafood Kitchen

Located near the Halifax River, Hull’s Seafood Kitchen stands out as one of the top restaurants in Daytona Beach. This unpretentious eatery serves up some of the freshest seafood in town. Their menu changes daily based on the catch, ensuring you always get the best of what the ocean has to offer.

Popular dishes include the grilled mahi-mahi, fried shrimp basket, and their famous fish tacos. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and reasonable prices make it an excellent choice for families and seafood enthusiasts alike.

Hull’s also operates a market next door, where you can purchase fresh seafood to cook at home. This connection to local fishermen guarantees the quality and freshness of their offerings.

Caribbean Jack’s

Situated on the banks of the Halifax River, Caribbean Jack’s offers not just great food but also stunning waterfront views. This restaurant combines fresh seafood with a tropical twist, creating a unique dining experience.

Their coconut shrimp and Caribbean-style grouper are crowd-pleasers. The outdoor seating area allows guests to enjoy their meals while watching boats sail by, adding to the overall ambiance.

Caribbean Jack’s also features a full bar with a selection of tropical cocktails. Their signature Rum Runner is a perfect complement to any seafood dish. On weekends, live music adds to the lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Steakhouse Delights

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse

For those craving a high-end steakhouse experience, Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse delivers. Located in the heart of Daytona Beach, this upscale restaurant is known for its premium cuts of beef and extensive wine list.

The menu features a variety of USDA Prime steaks, including the popular bone-in ribeye and filet mignon. Their sides, such as the truffle mac and cheese and creamed spinach, complement the main courses perfectly.

Hyde Park’s wine cellar boasts an impressive selection of over 150 wines from around the world. Their knowledgeable sommeliers can help you find the perfect pairing for your meal. The restaurant also offers a private dining room for special occasions and business meetings.

Charlie Horse Restaurant

Charlie Horse Restaurant offers a more casual steakhouse experience without compromising on quality. This family-owned establishment has been serving Daytona Beach for decades, earning a loyal following among locals and tourists alike.

Their signature dish is the prime rib, slow-roasted to perfection. The restaurant also offers a variety of other cuts, including sirloin and New York strip. Don’t miss their homemade desserts, particularly the key lime pie.

Charlie Horse is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The walls are adorned with local memorabilia and photos, giving diners a glimpse into Daytona Beach’s rich history. They also feature a full bar and often show sports events on their TVs, making it a great spot for a casual night out.

Italian Cuisine

Don Vito’s Italian Restaurant

Don Vito’s brings a taste of Italy to Daytona Beach. This charming restaurant offers authentic Italian dishes in a cozy, family-friendly setting.

Their homemade pasta dishes shine, especially the lasagna and fettuccine Alfredo. The wood-fired pizzas are another highlight, featuring crispy thin crusts and generous toppings. The tiramisu makes for a perfect ending to any meal here.

Don Vito’s prides itself on using traditional Italian recipes passed down through generations. The owner, originally from Naples, ensures that each dish maintains its authenticity. They also offer a selection of Italian wines to complement your meal.

Zappi’s Italian Garden Restaurant

Zappi’s Italian Garden Restaurant offers a unique dining experience in Daytona Beach. Set in a beautiful garden setting, this restaurant serves up traditional Italian fare alongside some creative twists on classic dishes.

Their garden-to-table concept ensures fresh ingredients in every dish. Try their signature Zappi’s Chicken, a flavorful combination of chicken breast, prosciutto, and mozzarella in a white wine sauce. The outdoor seating area, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a romantic atmosphere for evening meals.

Zappi’s also features a bocce ball court, adding a fun, interactive element to your dining experience. On weekends, they often host live music performances, creating a lively Italian-inspired ambiance.

Breakfast and Brunch Spots

Dancing Avocado Kitchen

Dancing Avocado Kitchen is a local gem that specializes in healthy, organic breakfast and lunch options. This quirky eatery has been serving Daytona Beach since 1997, focusing on vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.

Their avocado toast variations are a must-try, as is the “Groovy Granola” parfait. For lunch, the black bean burger and various salads are popular choices. The eclectic decor and friendly staff add to the restaurant’s charm.

The restaurant sources many of its ingredients from local farms, supporting the community while ensuring the freshness of their dishes. They also offer a selection of fresh juices and smoothies, perfect for a refreshing start to your day.

Crabby Joe’s Deck & Grill

While Crabby Joe’s is known for its seafood, it also serves up one of the best breakfasts in Daytona Beach. Located on the Sunglow Pier, this restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views along with your morning meal.

Their breakfast menu includes classics like eggs Benedict and pancakes, as well as unique offerings like the crab cake breakfast. The “Surfer’s Special,” a hearty combination of eggs, bacon, and home fries, is perfect for those planning a day on the beach.

Crabby Joe’s is also a prime spot for watching the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Early risers can enjoy their coffee and breakfast while taking in the spectacular views. The restaurant’s location on the pier also makes it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

International Flavors

Tia Cori’s Tacos

Tia Cori’s Tacos brings authentic Mexican flavors to Daytona Beach. This small, unassuming restaurant has gained a big reputation for its delicious tacos and friendly service.

The menu offers a variety of tacos, including favorites like al pastor and carne asada. Their homemade salsas and guacamole are the perfect accompaniments. Don’t forget to try their horchata, a traditional Mexican rice drink that pairs well with any spicy dish.

Tia Cori’s also offers a selection of Mexican sodas and beers to complement your meal. The vibrant decor, featuring colorful Mexican artwork, adds to the authentic atmosphere.

Ronin Sushi & Bar

For those craving Japanese cuisine, Ronin Sushi & Bar is a top choice in Daytona Beach. This modern restaurant offers an extensive menu of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese specialties.

Their signature rolls, like the Volcano Roll and the Daytona Roll, showcase the chef’s creativity. The restaurant also offers a selection of hot dishes, including teriyaki and tempura. The sleek interior and attentive service make for an enjoyable dining experience.

Ronin features a full bar specializing in sake and Japanese whisky. They often host sake tasting events, providing an opportunity to learn more about this traditional Japanese beverage.

Casual Dining and Sports Bars

Daytona Taproom

Daytona Taproom is the place to go for craft beer enthusiasts and burger lovers. This casual eatery boasts an impressive selection of local and national craft beers on tap, along with a menu of gourmet burgers and pub fare.

Their burgers are the stars of the show, with unique options like the PB&J Burger and the Mac & Cheese Burger. The extensive beer list features rotating taps, ensuring there’s always something new to try.

The Taproom also hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music performances. Their outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for pet owners.

Houligan’s Sports Grille

Houligan’s Sports Grille is a local favorite for casual dining and catching the latest sports events. With multiple locations in the Daytona Beach area, it’s a convenient option for many visitors and residents.

Their menu offers a wide range of American classics, but they’re particularly known for their wings and “Wally” sandwiches. The relaxed atmosphere and numerous TV screens make it an ideal spot for group gatherings or game days.

Houligan’s also features a full bar and often runs drink specials during major sporting events. Their loyalty program is popular among locals, offering rewards for frequent diners.

Sweet Treats

Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory

No culinary tour of Daytona Beach would be complete without a stop at Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory. This local institution has been crafting artisanal chocolates since 1925.

Visitors can take a free tour of the factory to see how their chocolates are made, followed by free samples. Their sea salt caramels and chocolate-covered potato chips are unique treats worth trying. The shop also offers a variety of traditional chocolates and truffles.

Angell & Phelps is known for their seasonal specialties, including chocolate seashells in summer and festive shapes during holidays. They also offer custom chocolate creations for special events.

Zeno’s Boardwalk Sweet Shop

Located on the famous Daytona Beach Boardwalk, Zeno’s has been satisfying sweet tooths since 1948. This old-fashioned candy shop is known for its homemade salt water taffy, available in over 30 flavors.

Besides taffy, Zeno’s offers a wide array of candies, fudge, and ice cream. Their saltwater taffy ice cream is a unique treat that combines two of their specialties. The nostalgic atmosphere and beachfront location make it a fun stop for families.

Zeno’s also features a small museum showcasing the history of candy making on the boardwalk. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Daytona Beach’s past and the evolution of confectionery.

Farm-to-Table Dining

The Cellar Restaurant

Housed in the former home of President Warren G. Harding, The Cellar Restaurant offers a unique fine dining experience in Daytona Beach. This intimate restaurant focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and an ever-changing menu.

The chef’s tasting menu is a popular choice, allowing diners to sample a variety of seasonal dishes. Their wine list is equally impressive, featuring selections curators hand-pick. The historic setting adds an extra layer of charm to the dining experience.

The Cellar’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond their menu. They practice eco-friendly operations, including composting food waste and using energy-efficient appliances.

Rose Villa Southern Table & Bar

Rose Villa brings Southern charm and farm-to-table dining to Daytona Beach. Set in a beautifully restored 1920s home, this restaurant offers a menu that celebrates Southern cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients.

Dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and pecan-crusted chicken showcase the best of Southern cooking. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients means the menu changes regularly. Their craft cocktails, many featuring house-made syrups and infusions, are the perfect complement to any meal.

Rose Villa also features a lovely garden where they grow some of their own herbs and vegetables. They offer cooking classes and special farm-to-table dinners, providing unique culinary experiences for food enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Daytona Beach’s culinary landscape is as diverse and exciting as the city itself. From fresh seafood and steakhouses to international cuisines and farm-to-table experiences, there’s an abundance of options for every palate and occasion.

These restaurants not only offer delicious food but also contribute to the city’s vibrant culture. Many of them have deep roots in the community, telling the story of Daytona Beach through their menus and atmospheres.

After enjoying Daytona Beach’s culinary delights, rest in comfort at one of the luxurious accommodations Great Ocean Condos and Homes offer.