Seafood Sensations: Exploring Ormond Beach’s Coastal Cuisine
Craving delicious food in a beautiful beach town? Look no further than Ormond Beach, Florida! This charming coastal city, nestled in Volusia County, offers more than just stunning ocean views and relaxing sandy shores. Ormond Beach boasts a surprisingly diverse and vibrant food scene, offering something to satisfy every palate, from the freshest seafood catches to globally-inspired flavors. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey as we explore the best restaurants and culinary experiences Ormond Beach, FL has to offer.
Ormond Beach’s prime location along the Atlantic Ocean naturally lends itself to an abundance of fresh and delectable seafood. The salty air seems to carry the promise of the ocean’s bounty, and the restaurants here deliver on that promise in spectacular fashion. You’ll find everything from casual, laid-back fish shacks to more upscale dining establishments featuring expertly prepared seafood dishes.
Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar
One standout is Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar. Located right on the Halifax River, Grills offers an amazing atmosphere and a menu showcasing the freshest catches of the day. Picture yourself enjoying grilled mahi-mahi, succulent shrimp scampi, or perfectly prepared oysters while watching the boats glide by. Grills prides itself on sourcing local ingredients whenever possible, ensuring a truly fresh and flavorful dining experience. They’re known for their friendly service, generous portions, and a lively Tiki Bar perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail. Their Key Lime Pie is a must-try!
Hull’s Seafood Kitchen
For a different seafood experience, check out Hull’s Seafood Kitchen. While it may be slightly inland, don’t let that deter you! Hull’s offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed family meal. They specialize in classic seafood dishes like fried shrimp, fish and chips, and their famous crab cakes, all prepared with care and using the freshest ingredients. Hull’s also boasts an impressive raw bar, offering a wide selection of oysters, clams, and other shellfish. Be sure to check out their daily specials, as they often feature unique and seasonal seafood creations. The restaurant also has a small market that sell fresh seafood you can prepare yourself at home.
Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club
If you’re looking for a family-friendly option with stunning ocean views, Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club is the place to be. Situated right on the beach, Ocean Deck offers a wide variety of seafood dishes, along with other classic American fare. Their casual atmosphere and extensive menu make it a perfect spot for a fun and relaxing meal with the whole family. Kids will love their dedicated menu. Many love the blackened fish tacos and the lively atmosphere. Live music is featured often.
When indulging in seafood in Ormond Beach, remember to ask about the catch of the day and be mindful of seasonality. Local seafood is often at its peak flavor during specific times of the year. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the familiar and try some of the region’s unique seafood offerings.
Beyond Seafood: Discovering Diverse Dining Options
While seafood is undoubtedly a highlight of the Ormond Beach food scene, the city offers a surprisingly diverse array of culinary options to cater to every taste. From comforting Italian dishes to flavorful American cuisine and exciting international flavors, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds.
La Tavola Italian Restaurant
For those craving Italian or Mediterranean flavors, La Tavola Italian Restaurant is an excellent choice. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. La Tavola’s menu features a variety of classic Italian dishes, including homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and flavorful Mediterranean specialties. Be sure to try their signature lasagna, a family recipe passed down through generations. The restaurant offers a nice wine list as well.
31 Supper Club
If you’re in the mood for classic American cuisine, 31 Supper Club offers an elevated and elegant dining experience. While they have many different choices, this restaurant offers burgers, steak, and other comfort food. The restaurant uses high quality ingredients. The bar also offers a vast selection of craft beers. Many love their steaks and pasta.
Peach Valley Cafe
For a taste of international flavors, venture over to Peach Valley Cafe. Peach Valley Cafe has locations throughout Central Florida, but this chain offers authentic Mexican cuisine in the heart of Ormond Beach. Whether you’re craving tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, or something more adventurous, Peach Valley Cafe delivers with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Their colorful atmosphere and friendly service add to the overall dining experience.
Breakfast & Brunch Spots in Ormond Beach: Starting Your Day Right
No culinary exploration is complete without indulging in a delicious breakfast or brunch. Ormond Beach has many restaurants that offer this meal. Whether you are looking for classic pancakes, specialty omelets, or something new, Ormond Beach can satisfy.
Crabby Chris’s
For a casual and classic breakfast experience, look no further than Crabby Chris’s. This local favorite is known for its generous portions of pancakes, eggs, bacon, and other breakfast staples. Crabby Chris’s offers a no-frills, welcoming atmosphere and is the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying breakfast before hitting the beach. The restaurant is known for its reasonable prices, its location, and many say that its customer service is top notch.
Rose Villa Southern Table and Bar
If you’re looking for a more upscale and creative brunch experience, Rose Villa Southern Table and Bar is the perfect choice. Rose Villa offers a refined and elegant setting, perfect for a special occasion or a leisurely weekend brunch. Their menu features unique and innovative brunch items, like avocado toast with poached eggs, shrimp and grits, and creative omelets. Be sure to indulge in their mimosas or Bloody Marys, and soak in the sophisticated ambiance.
Sweet Treats & Desserts: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
After a satisfying meal, treat yourself to something sweet at one of Ormond Beach’s many ice cream parlors and dessert shops.
Tomoka Brewing Company
Tomoka Brewing Company is well known for their beer, but this brewery is also known for their desserts. From homemade ice cream to specialty milkshakes, you’ll find a delicious treat to satisfy your cravings. Many love the fact that they have a bar as well.
Donnie’s Donuts
For a selection of fresh pastries, cakes, and cookies, visit Donnie’s Donuts. This local bakery is known for its handcrafted treats, using only the finest ingredients. They have all different choices of pastries, cakes, and cookies.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites: Uncovering the Unexpected
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Ormond Beach is home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites that offer exceptional food and a unique dining experience.
Ronin Sushi and Bar
Ronin Sushi and Bar is a food truck that offers an array of sushi dishes. From nigiri to ramen, this food truck has become a local favorite over the years. Many rave about the affordability and the quality.
Java Junkies Coffee Cafe
Another spot is Java Junkies Coffee Cafe. Java Junkies is the perfect spot to grab breakfast. They offer breakfast sandwiches, bagels, coffee, tea, smoothies and other options. Many love this restaurant due to its location and friendly staff.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Ormond Beach Culinary Adventure
From the freshest seafood delicacies to diverse international flavors and comforting American classics, Ormond Beach, FL offers a culinary landscape that is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. This charming coastal town is a true hidden gem for food lovers, offering something to tantalize every taste bud and create lasting memories.
So, whether you’re craving fresh seafood with ocean views, an elegant Italian dinner, or a quick and delicious breakfast before hitting the beach, Ormond Beach has something to offer. Don’t hesitate to explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide, and venture off the beaten path to discover your own hidden culinary treasures. Attend local farmer’s markets and food festivals to get a true taste of what the area has to offer.
Your Ormond Beach culinary adventure awaits!
