Just steps from Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, Flatbread & Butter is a neighborhood café offering quality coffee alongside hearty breakfast and lunch options. The interior is bright and modern, and the patio is ideal for a casual bite outdoors. It’s an excellent spot for early risers, families, or anyone in search of a relaxing breakfast with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
For something a little more refined, Chez Faby is a charming French café offering both classic and modern bistro fare. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s an easy walk from several Riverwalk access points. The café is known for its elegant brunch options, including eggs Benedict and quiche, as well as beautifully plated desserts and espresso drinks.
What to try: Margherita pizza, calzones, garlic knots This pizza food truck is a local favorite for quick, satisfying meals with a laid-back vibe. Conveniently located near several downtown hotels and just a short walk from the Riverwalk, Street Crust specializes in wood-fired pies made fresh to order. While seating is limited, the casual atmosphere and great service make it worth the stop, especially if you're in the mood for something warm and cheesy after a long walk.
Just across from the JW Marriott, Bright Ice is the perfect place to cool off after an afternoon along the river. This sleek, modern ice cream shop offers small-batch scoops in fun and unexpected flavors. With both dairy and vegan options, as well as coffee and desserts, it’s great for families, date night, or a quick sugar fix.
If you’re looking for something lighter and nutrient-packed, Fit Bowl Co. is your go-to. This walk-up smoothie shack near Sparkman Wharf serves fresh acai and pitaya bowls topped with fruit, granola, and other superfoods. Perfect for a post-walk energy boost or a quick, healthy snack before heading into the shops nearby.
Located along the Channelside stretch of the Riverwalk, Hampton Chocolate Factory is a dessert lover’s dream. This sleek dessert bar offers gourmet chocolate, soft-serve sundaes, and creative takes on classic sweets. It’s a fun stop for both kids and adults — and a great pick if you’re looking for something indulgent after dinner or before heading to a show at the nearby arena.
Located in Historic Springfield, Foxy Lady Café is a hidden gem offering soul-warming comfort food, homemade pastries, and flavorful lattes. Known for its chicken salad, potato salad, and fresh lemonade, this spot is great for grabbing a bite before or after a stroll through Springfield Park
This veteran-owned coffee shop is all about ethically sourced, locally roasted coffee. Tucked into the Springfield neighborhood, it’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a latte, a fresh pastry, and recharge before heading to the library or TIAA Bank Field. With a casual and relaxed atmosphere, Social Grounds is perfect for both quick stops and long coffee breaks.
If you’re looking for something beyond just coffee, The District is a trendy spot offering a mix of coffee, cocktails, and Southern-inspired comfort food. From beef Wellington to shrimp and grits, this café-restaurant hybrid is great for brunch before a game or dinner after a day in the city. The outdoor seating and vibrant ambiance make it a perfect weekend stop.
Just steps from Hemming Park and Jacksonville Library, Ground Level Coffee is a calm, work-friendly space serving up expertly crafted cappuccinos, fresh blueberry pastries, and hearty quinoa salads. The laid-back vibe, friendly baristas, and plenty of seating make it a great place to unwind with a book or catch up on emails.
If you love chocolate as much as coffee, Sweet Pete’s Candy is an absolute must-visit. Housed in a historic 22,000-square-foot mansion in Downtown Jacksonville, this spot offers handcrafted chocolates, fun candy-making experiences, and, of course, great coffee. Whether you're stopping in for a sweet treat or a chocolate-infused coffee, Sweet Pete’s is a fun and unique stop after a walk through Hemming Park.
The most aesthetic coffee shop in Jacksonville, The Greenhouse Bar is like stepping into a botanical oasis in the middle of the city. This coffee-meets-cocktail bar offers beautifully crafted lattes, matcha, and handcrafted cocktails in a space surrounded by lush greenery. It’s the perfect coffee break spot after exploring Downtown Jacksonville or before heading to Riverside Park.
Situated inside MOCA Jacksonville (Museum of Contemporary Art), Setlan Coffee Co. is a minimalist, modern café with top-tier espresso, matcha lattes, and fresh pastries. If you’re spending the day exploring art exhibits or looking for a quiet spot near the Jacksonville Public Library, this is one of the best places to grab a coffee and unwind.
Brass Tacks Coffee Co. is tucked away in the middle of Southside’s busy shopping scene, making it a perfect stop for a mid-day caffeine break. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and seriously good coffee, this spot has the vibe of a big-name chain but the heart of a local favorite.
For a cozy coffee stop with house-baked bread, muffins, and scones, Great Harvest Bread Co. is a hidden gem. They make real, fresh bread from scratch, and you can tell the difference in every bite. Their chipotle turkey sandwich pairs perfectly with a latte, and the friendly service makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time visiting.
Just down the road from Great Harvest, Mechanism Coffee Roasters is a relaxed and modern coffee shop with plenty of space for working, studying, or taking a break from the hustle and bustle of Southside. Their iced chai, matcha latte, and breakfast bagels are all great choices, and the low-key ambiance makes it a great spot to sit and unwind.
Located inside The Avenues Mall, Dolce & Amaro Caffe is the perfect pick-me-up when you need a break from shopping. They specialize in Italian-style coffee and pastries, serving cappuccinos, lattes, and strong espresso that would impress even the toughest coffee snob.
A favorite among Southside locals, Red Owl Coffee Company is known for its hand-roasted coffee, expertly crafted lattes, and fast service. Their iced coconut and white mocha latte is a fan favorite, and the Dosta Double is a must-try for anyone who loves a strong espresso kick.
Towers Deli & Coffee is a local favorite for breakfast, coffee, and quick bites. Their locally roasted coffee is brewed fresh to order, and they serve up pastries, sandwiches, and kolaches that are perfect for a light meal. It’s a great place to grab a coffee before exploring San Marco Square.
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee is not just a coffee shop—it’s a movement. The shop is staffed by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, creating a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere. The cinnamon rolls, muffins, and espresso drinks are all top-notch, making this a great place to grab coffee while supporting a great cause.
A newer addition to San Marco’s coffee scene, Happy Brew is a bright and cheerful coffee shop with locally roasted coffee and fresh-baked pastries. Their cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and relaxing vibe make it a great stop for a midday shopping break.
If you love freshly baked sourdough, quiche, and locally sourced ingredients, Community Loaves is a must-visit. This bakery café is known for its handmade breads, seasonal pastries, and high-quality espresso drinks. It’s a go-to spot for families, remote workers, and anyone who appreciates good food made from scratch.
Southern comfort food, but make it vegan! Murray Hillbilly is one of Jacksonville’s best plant-based restaurants, serving up fried pickles, mac and cheese, and their famous Vegan Bubba Chicken Sandwich. It’s a casual and friendly spot with low prices and big portions, making it a local favorite.
A coffee shop by day and a live music venue by night, The Walrus is one of Murray Hill’s most unique spots. Their all-vegan menu includes smoothies, craft beer, and fresh sandwiches, with a focus on bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed, and their outdoor seating makes it an ideal place to enjoy a coffee after a stroll through the neighborhood.
A true Murray Hill staple, Vagabond Coffee Co. is known for its oat milk lattes, house-made pop tarts, and cozy vibes. The café has a great balance of work-friendly energy and a welcoming community atmosphere, making it a favorite for remote workers, students, and creatives. They roast their own beans, so the coffee is always fresh and flavorful.
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