When the weather starts to get perfect, scenic outdoor dining in Jacksonville is where you want to be. At certain times of the year, you’ve got to take advantage of the area’s bountiful outdoor dining – from a tranquil oasis to an idyllic al fresco – we’re here to get some open-air nourishment.
So, before you plan your next restaurant outing, check out these hidden garden patios and beat the crowds to a beautiful day.
If you haven’t been back through the neighborhoods of Springfield to this little clandestine restaurant – it’s next on your list! While the interior may be small, their outdoor Peacock Garden has plenty of seating. The walls are covered in colorful and vibrant artwork, creating perfect backdrops for your foodie photos! Dine al fresco under their covered patio and enjoy tasty plates in the beautiful Florida weather.
The District even has patio tents and geodomes for those looking for an extra private touch to their garden picnic. Patrons should be warned, however, that while there are secluded aspects to The District – it’s growing in popularity. Beware of weekend brunches and popular times when the crowds come!
BIG PLUS: The food is amazing as well!
📍 2026 Walnut St, Jacksonville, FL 32206
📷 Stuff To Do in Jacksonville
While there is nothing secret about the absolutely stunning garden behind the Cummer art museum, many people don’t know about their Friday Night Picnics!
Patrons can enjoy the outdoor garden on a clear night with al fresco dining with a picnic. Bag lunches are included with the admission, featuring menu items made from the Cummer café. Bring your own blanket and post up on a secluded spot within their 1.45-acre property. Enjoy wine and bask in the breeze off the St. Johns River during a romantic night downtown with your favorite company.
📍829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204
We love a little German biergarten on a fall afternoon, and Buchner’s hidden speakeasy style location is the perfect pairing of secret garden and German beer!
With an entrance through Black Hat Vapor, Buchner’s Bierhalle has classic European pub vibes with an expansive outdoor biergarten in the back. Nestled in the heart of Murray Hill, this little nondescript “Ratskeller” manages to be in a prime location without being too obvious.
📍 Enter through Blackhat Vapor, 1188 Edgewood Ave S, Jacksonville, FL 32205
📷 Stuff To Do in Jacksonville
This adorable little pie shop in Avondale is home to the most authentic pies and also a lush hidden garden in the back of the shop! If you haven’t grabbed a slice and headed to the back patio area of Mixed Fillings, you’re missing out on a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
We recommend their Key Lime pie for a warm afternoon or if it’s on the chillier side, the Peanut Butter and Jealous (oh, yeah). If you’re more of a savory person, be sure to check out their quiche or chicken pot pie options! They do NOT disappoint!
📍 2251 Oak St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
📷 Cafe Karibo – Facebook
Located in downtown Fernandina, Care Karibo has lovely, old Florida dining down right. We recommend dining here during the evening time when the string lights are on and frogs can be heard chirping.
Choose from dining on the ground, amidst the trees and plants or opt for the second floor balcony for the great views of the garden.
Café Karibo also has a delicious menu full of homemade, eclectic eats that will make you want to savor every moment of the experience.
📍 27 N 3rd St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
📷 Les CLos – Facebook
This adorable French restaurant channels the Mediterranean countryside with their slatted pergola and overgrown, crawling vines and shrubs.
With white tablecloths and mood lighting, you’ll feel as if you just took a trip to an ancient European village to dine under the stars.
Be sure to enjoy a nice glass of wine at Les Clos for the full experience.
📍 20 S 2nd St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
📷 Meehan’s – Facebook
Meehan’s has a prime location in the heart of St. Augustine but few know how much of a go-to their patio is when dining downtown!
With gorgeous river views and excellent street watching, you can dine at Meehan’s viewing both the lively action of downtown St. Augustine and the sailboats passing under the Bridge of Lions.
We recommend hitting up Meehan’s during Night of Lights when the entire patio is decorated and lit up for a stunning atmosphere and perfect pairing of Christmas in the Old City.
📍 20 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084