The Southern Grill — Restaurant in Jacksonville

I haven't spent any significant time in downtown Jacksonville due to a couple property crimes when I was there years ago. We decided to come for a concert, and ended up adding another event and staying overnight on the Northbank. At "brunch time" there were few choices on the north bank there were few choices except the $50 a plate hotel choices, so a quick Google search found us walking to try out the Southern Grill. We picked it based on it showing $4.95 kids plates on their menu, though we quickly found they had gone up since that menu was added to their profile. Still, the pricing was reasonable EXCEPT they were still charging a .50 surcharge PER EGG (prices on eggs had plunged after the bird flu scare subsided by now). I mentioned this to the lady taking our order (I think she may have been the owner) and she fired back "yes, and I hear they are going up 20% more by the end of the year (this was late March). You place your order at the counter (waiting behind others to do so), and are served at your table (a tip is expected in advance). We waited about 25 minutes for our food (they were about 1/2 full inside), but a portion of mine had to go back when I found the summer sausage they offered was still cold in the center. After flagging down one of the servers I was promised another, which came about the time I was finishing with the rest of my meal. Meanwhile one in our party had never received his entree (a hamburger). The staff was apologetic, but they had clearly missed this plate (in our party of 6). The price was pretty good, even with the junk fee egg charge, but the service is definitely lacking. I loved the room, but the 'day drinking' crowd at the bar (at noon on Sunday) was already loud and raucous. Another note, if you are traveling from the Northbank: We walked over (pleasant, with a bit of a slog uphill over the Main Street bridge for seniors), and planned to treat the kids to the Jacksonville Skyway for the ride back. By the time we arrived at the restaurant, a light rain kicked in, but we were disappointed to find the Skyway was "special events only" on Sundays. We were attending a 'special event' but evidently not special enough for the autonomous Skyway to run. The Skyway is a notorious as the "train to nowhere", but has devolved into a 'train goes nowhere' at least on Sunday. We agreed that Jacksonville has made significant strides in what was it's number one problem with rampant pan-handling street people. We put it at no more than 20% of the numbers we saw last time, but that was still a lot. I've never seen a city do such an efficient job of letting it's signature asset go to waste like Jax. Maybe someday...

Title: A Serendipitous Encounter: A Stroll Along the St. John River

Introduction: The St. John River, with its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings, has long been a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and wanderers seeking solace. On one such occasion, after a long and invigorating walk along the river, my companions and I were pleasantly surprised by the harmonious melodies of live music and the tantalizing aroma of food wafting through the air. Although our appetites were left unsatisfied due to the untimely closure of the grill, we relished in the brief moments of live music and ensured our loyal canine companion was provided with refreshing water. This unexpected encounter served as a reminder of the simple joys that can be found in the most unexpected places.

As we embarked on our leisurely stroll along the banks of the St. John River, the sun's warm rays gently caressed our skin, invigorating our spirits. The serene atmosphere, punctuated by the gentle rustling of leaves and the rhythmic flow of the river, provided a soothing backdrop for our journey. The rhythmic sound of our footsteps merged harmoniously with the symphony of nature, creating a sense of tranquility that enveloped us.

Suddenly, as if carried by the wind, the melodious strains of live music reached our ears. The enchanting tunes seemed to beckon us closer, drawing us towards their source. Intrigued, we quickened our pace, our curiosity piqued by the allure of the music. With each step, the melodies grew clearer, and our anticipation heightened.

As we approached the source of the music, the tantalizing aroma of food filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of nature. Our stomachs growled in response, reminding us of the exertion we had put into our walk. Eager to satiate our appetites, we hastened our steps, hoping to indulge in a delectable meal.

However, much to our dismay, we discovered that the grill had closed by the time we arrived. Our hopes of savoring a delicious meal were dashed, leaving us with a lingering sense of disappointment. Nevertheless, we refused to let this setback dampen our spirits, for we had already been captivated by the enchanting music that continued to resonate through the air.

Taking a moment to appreciate the live performance, we found solace in the...

The Southern Grill. A wonderful, surprising, hidden gem in the heart of Jacksonville. This restaurant, has a very diverse menu, ranging from traditional menu items such as southern comfort food, including barbeque, all the way to Mediterranean cuisine such as falafel. We happened to be at the hospital complex, and did not have a desire for hospital food, so we looked on google maps to see what was close enough to walk to. On the way through Treaty Park, you will find this place, a short 10 min walk from Baptist medical center. The first day we were greeted by Kim, one of the sweetest ladies you will ever meet. We ordered breakfast, a pancake breakfast for me, and a chorizo sausage pita sandwich for my wife. We were not at all disapointed. The pancakes were huge, bacon was thick and tasted fresh cut, and grits of perfect consistency. The sausage in the pita was very good, and unique. Plenty of food, and coffee on the ready.

We decided since our return visit to the hospital over the next couple of days, we would return for lunch or dinner, especially since they open at 8, and close at 10, the availability here is great.

We came back for a late lunch, and talked with Christian, and she took wonderful care of us. I had the 2 meat bbq plate, and my wife had the flounder club (she ate before I could get a picture) The bbq, is competition quality, and is slow smoked all day. There are 3 sauces available, a traditional sweet, a mild but tangy mustard, and a unique spicy mustard. All 3 sauces are fantastic, and not your over done commons. They compliment the light smoke on the meats. I selected the brisket, and pulled pork. Both, very difficult meats to present, and good selections to test any grill master. The pork, on the edge of moist/dry, but very very flavorful and tender. The brisket? Some of the best I have had in the area, well worth the trip here from anywhere in the area to try it! The atmosphere here is wonderful, caught between a sports bar, and a casual dining room, the service here is very fast, and friendly- after ordering at the counter, and enough time to make our drinks, sit down, and food was ready! - plenty of TV's to watch the games, a huge aquarium, plenty of drink selections, and a small area outside to dine if you like. If I could give the Southern Grill 6...