Unquestionably, a plate of Southern cuisine has a reassuring quality about it; the rich flavors and substantial servings are just right, and the cooking seems like a warm embrace. Additionally, Florida is home to some of the most amazing hidden gems that serve authentic Southern comfort food. Here are some of the greatest restaurants that any true foodie should visit, offering everything from soul-satisfying biscuits and gravy to crispy fried chicken.
The Southern Pantry, a quaint small cafe hidden away from the main tourist hordes in Tallahassee, was my first destination. The aroma of slow-cooked meats and cornbread filled the air as soon as I came in. The fried chicken is as good as I’ve ever tasted, and the menu is a tribute to Southern comfort cuisine. The food is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfectly seasoned, so it’s no wonder that this establishment has a devoted customer base. I was in Southern culinary bliss when I added a side of creamy mashed potatoes and an unbelievably buttery biscuit.
If you don’t know where to look, you’ll miss The Smokin’ Rib Shack down in St. Petersburg. Situated in a dull strip mall, it doesn’t stand out, but the aroma of slow-smoked barbecue permeates the air. The pulled pork sandwich I got was quite good and came with mac and cheese and collard greens on the side. The pulled pork had the perfect amount of tangy barbecue sauce and was tender and smokey. The mac and cheese was creamy, cheesy, and comforting, and the collard greens had the ideal depth of flavor that comes from the South.
I discovered The Blue Jay Kitchen & Bar in Jacksonville, a welcoming, casual place that offers Southern classics with a contemporary spin. With plump, expertly seasoned shrimp piled on top of a bed of creamy, cheesy grits, their shrimp and grits are legendary. This recipe exemplifies how Southern cuisine can be both comfortable and sophisticated at the same time. It is rich without being overpowering. Their pecan pie is a must-try dessert; it’s sweet, gooey, and completely irresistible.
If you ever find yourself in West Palm Beach, you should definitely visit Honey’s Fried Chicken. It may appear to be just another takeout place from the outside, but don’t be fooled. You will be greeted by some of the state’s crispiest and juiciest fried chicken once you enter. The chicken is brined for hours to achieve the ideal moisture and flavor balance. You’ll fall in love with their hushpuppies if you’re fortunate enough to eat them; they’re the ideal side dish to go with the chicken because they’re crunchy on the exterior and soft and flavorful on the inside.