After a day at the beach or visiting a museum, I always love to grab a drink and a bite to eat at one of the many pubs in Jacksonville – it’s one of the best things to do here! There are a staggering 232 bars in Bold City, so it’s hard to pick a favorite pub, but over the past year that I’ve lived here, I’ve found some great ones that I’ll share below.
There’s something about a pub or a tavern that I always find so welcoming and relaxing. And if there’s a great outdoor space? Even better! Jacksonville is a huge city in Florida, so depending on which neighborhood you’re in, you could sit rooftop with an ocean view or downtown in a cozy atmosphere.
Jax is home to many historic pubs, taverns with live music, and breweries making delicious craft beer creations. Keep reading to find out more about the best Jacksonville pubs that I’ve found so far.
Quick Look – Best Pubs in Jacksonville, Florida
- Top choice overall: Poe’s Tavern
- Best historic pub: Palace Saloon
- Cheapest pint of beer: Hoptinger Bier Garden & Sausage House
- Fun atmosphere: Keg & Coin
- Top pub for live music: Shanty Town Pub
- Awesome views: River & Post
- Best pub to watch sports: Strings Sports Brewery
Best Pubs in Jacksonville, Florida
After living in, and drinking my way around Jacksonville, Florida for a year now, I’ve compiled this list of my favorite pubs in the city based on the atmosphere, quality of the food and drinks, service, location, my personal opinion, and customer reviews. It was hard to choose since there are so many incredible pubs in Jacksonville, but I’ve narrowed this list down to 15 based on the above criteria.
1. Poe’s Tavern – Top Pub in Jacksonville, Florida Overall
I chose Poe’s Tavern in Atlantic Beach as the best pub overall because of its amazing location, unique and fun atmosphere, and delicious food. Their beer selection is pretty decent as well.
The gastropub has an Edgar Allen Poe theme, and there’s something fun to look at on every wall, and in every corner. What I love most about Poe’s is that it’s just a couple blocks away from the beach and in the heart of the Atlantic/Neptune Beach downtown area.
Another great thing about this pub is that the bar is half indoors, and half outdoors and is buzzing with energy during peak seasons (summer), but chill during the winter and shoulder seasons. Oh, and their burgers are to die for.
Poe’s Tavern Information
Address: 363 Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Phone: +19042417637
Operating Hours: 11 am-10 pm, every day
Must-Try Items: Beef Hop Frog Burger, Edgar’s Nachos, Poe’s Punch
Average Cost: $7-$9 per pint, $10 per cocktail, $6-$14 per appetizer, $9-$18 entrees
Website: Poe’s Tavern
2. Palace Saloon – Best Historic Pub Near Jacksonville
Although it’s not located directly in Jacksonville, if you’re looking for a historic experience, it’s without a doubt worth the 40-minute drive to Fernandina Beach to visit the Palace Saloon. Open since 1903, this incredible relic of an establishment is the oldest bar in Florida.
As soon as you walk through the doors, you can just feel the history of the building. Given the fact that Fernandina Beach was once the busiest port in the south, you can only imagine the stories you’d hear if these walls could talk. The architecture and decor transport you back in time.
It’s home to the world-famous Pirate’s Punch, so that’s a must-try; but they have a full bar, beer, and wine options as well. As for food, they offer fantastic pub fare like fish and chips, a Swiss dip, wings, burgers, and other yummy options. They also host live music regularly which is awesome.
Palace Saloon Information
Address: 117 Centre St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Phone: +19045027231
Operating Hours: 12 pm-2 am, every day
Must-Try Items: Pirate’s Punch, Old Fashioned, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Average Cost: $7-$9 per pint, $10 per cocktail, $6-$10 per food item
Website: Palace Saloon
3. Hoptinger Bier Garden & Sausage House – Cheapest Drinks
When I first discovered Hoptinger, it instantly became one of my favorite pubs in Jacksonville. They have two locations, one at the beach and one in the hip Five Points area, and both are always packed with a young, trendy crowd.
Aside from rooftop bars and an amazing atmosphere, the happy hour at Hoptinger is absolutely insane. They offer $4 draft beers, $4 vodka options, $3 whiskey options, and $6 bar snacks Monday through Friday. Oh, and house wine is $2 all day every day.
Their menu is super tasty as well and includes options like a classic beer brat, burgers, steak frites, and ribs. As for drinks, try their Goose Juice with Hawaiian Punch reduction or their Damn Good Margarita.
Hoptinger Bier Garden & Sausage House Information
Address: 1037 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 & 333 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Phone: +19042220796
Operating Hours: 11 am-2 am, Mon-Fri & 10 am-2 am Saturday and Sunday
Must-Try Items: Brats in a Blanket, Damn Good Margarita, Goose Juice
Average Cost: $2-$13 per drink, $6-$15 per appetizer, $15-$19 per entree
Website: Hoptinger Bier Garden & Sausage House
4. Keg & Coin – Fun Atmosphere
One of the most fun pubs in Jacksonville is Keg & Coin. I’m always taken back to my childhood whenever I walk inside because it’s the city’s first arcade bar and is home to some old-school arcade games from the 80s and 90s. They also have 15 amazing brews on tap.
The sound of arcade games and the rush of nostalgia make Keg & Coin a super fun place to hang out on a Friday night with your friends. They also have merchandise like retro toys and T-shirts. If you’re looking for another place with cheap beer, this is it – they have $3 select drafts during happy hour from 12 pm to 4 pm, Monday through Thursday.
Keg & Coin Information
Address: 1271 King St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Phone: +19043880033
Operating Hours: 12 pm-2 am, Mon-Fri & 11 am-2 am Saturday and Sunday
Must-Try Items: Any beer from their rotating craft tap list
Average Cost: $3-$8 pints
Website: Keg & Coin
5. Shanty Town Pub – Best Pub for Live Music
Shanty Town Pub is a Jacksonville staple and has that classic dive bar feel. Located in the Springfield neighborhood of the city, they also serve as a venue for live music and DJ performances.
When I first moved to Jacksonville a year ago, I was talking to a local about their favorite bars – and Shanty Town was their recommendation. Now, it’s my duty to recommend it to you, and it’s one I take very seriously – It’s truly one of a kind. Follow their Instagram, and you’ll see that they always have something fun going on.
It’s loud, it’s grungy, and it’s perfect. Dive bar aficionados will approve.
Shanty Town Pub Information
Address: 22 W 6th St, Jacksonville, FL 32206
Operating Hours: 4 pm-2 am Monday-Saturday, 4 pm-12 am Sunday
Must-Try Items: Any simple cocktail
Average Cost: $5-$8 per drink
Website: Shanty Town Pub
6. River & Post – Best Views
More of a bar than a pub, I had to put River & Post on the list because it’s simply the best spot to get a drink and a bite with an incredible view in Jacksonville. The rooftop bar lets you take in the city skyline and the stunning St. Johns River.
This elegant establishment attracts a high-end crowd, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go there on a budget. During happy hour you can get two-for-one glasses of wine, and draft and bottled beer.
If you plan on staying for dinner, you’ll find elevated menu items like stuffed mushrooms, ceviche, or a burrata plate. I really can never say no to burrata, and their version is amazing, complimented perfectly by their housemade pesto.
River & Post Information
Address: 1000 Riverside Ave #100, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Phone: +19045752366
Operating Hours: 11 am-10 pm Sunday, 4 pm-10 pm Monday – Wednesday, 4 pm-11 pm Thursday, 4 pm-2 am Friday, 11 am-2 am Saturday
Must-Try Items: Burrata plate, espresso martini, Aperol spritz
Average Cost: $11-$30 food items
Website: River & Post
7. Strings Sports Brewery – Best Pub to Watch Sports
Strings Sports Brewery has become a place that I visit at least twice a month – maybe more depending on the current sporting events. This spot has fantastic beer, delicious food, and lots of TVs showing all the big games. It’s a family- and dog-friendly spot too!
The brewery is open and industrial, but warm and welcoming. One side has an area to order food while the other side has tables, TVs, and beer. There’s also an outdoor area with a screen too.
In terms of the food here, I am obsessed with their chicken tenders. I don’t know what it is about them, but they’re perfection. I also always order the Air Raid IPA or No See Dee Brown Ale. They even have players from the Jaguars stop by on Thursdays.
Strings Sports Brewery Information
Address: 1850 N N Main St, Jacksonville, FL 32206
Phone: +19044752970
Operating Hours: 11 am-9 pm Monday-Thursday, 11 am-10 pm Friday and Saturday, 11 am-11 pm Sunday
Must-Try Items: Air Raid IPA, chicken tenders, Joe Adeeb’s Famous Cocktail Cheese
Average Cost: $6-$8 per pint, $12-$18 food items
Website: Strings Sports Brewery
8. The Stout Snug – Best Irish Pub
Who doesn’t love a good Irish pub? The Stout Snug is one of the best Irish pubs in Jacksonville, Florida. I love it because it has that authentic Irish feel, it’s lively, and it consistently serves great food and drinks.
They feature a full bar and an impressive selection of draft beer, including Kilkenny, Harp, Smithwick’s, and Guinness (of course). If you’re hungry, they offer Irish classics like cottage stout pie, corned beef and cabbage, and bangers and mash, as well as other traditional pub fare.
I love going to The Stout Snug on Thursday for trivia nights, and they also host open mic and dueling piano nights. It’s a great spot for a night out with friends.
The Stout Snug Information
Address: 1190 Edgewood Ave S, Jacksonville, FL 32205
Phone: +19042401574
Operating Hours: 4 pm-10 pm Tuesday, 4 pm-11 pm Wednesday, 12 pm-12 am Thursday-Saturday, 12 pm-10 pm Sunday, Closed Monday
Must-Try Items: Reuben egg rolls, Smoked Irish Cider Old Fashioned, Campfire Mule
Average Cost: $10-$30 food items, $6-$10 drinks
Website: The Stout Snug
9. Monkey’s Uncle Tavern – Best Offtrack Pub
Every now and again, I like to get out of the city and find something to do on the outskirts of Jax. Monkey’s Uncle Tavern in Mandarin is one of the best off-track pubs in Jacksonville for so many reasons.
First off, the staff is super friendly. Even though this is considered a “locals’ bar,” which can often seem intimidating if you’re not from the area, the bartenders are some of the nicest around. And they make seriously great cocktails. The bar also has cool bar sports including darts and a pool table.
Another reason why I love this pub so much is that they have really tasty food. I love their chili cheese dog and chicken Philly, but they also have wings, burgers, peel-and-eat shrimp, and salads. There’s something for everyone here.
Monkey’s Uncle Tavern Information
Address: 10503 San Jose Blvd #12, Jacksonville, FL 32257
Phone: +19042601349
Operating Hours: 11 am-2 am Monday-Friday, 10 am-2 am Saturday and Sunday
Must-Try Items: Any specialty drinks, chili cheese dog, Philly steak fries
Average Cost: $7-$18 food items, $5-$10 drinks
Website: Monkey’s Uncle Tavern
10. Rogue – Best Whiskey Selection
Sometimes, I just want a really good Manhattan in a trendy but relaxed environment, and Rogue is one of my go-to spots for exactly this. This popular pub-meets-dive-bar is located in the hip Riverside area of Jacksonville, and they have a truly impressive whiskey selection.
A unique and fun thing that makes them stand out is their “ring toss” game. You can purchase “rings,” which are the rings from Mason jar lids, and then toss them at liquor bottles behind the bar. If you “ring” any of the bottles, you get a shot of that liquor.
Another perk that the Rogue boasts is their $0.25 tacos. Yep! If you buy a drink, you can get a well-portioned taco for a quarter. Friendly staff, great whiskey, and cheap tacos? Sign me up!
Rogue Information
Address: 927 King St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Phone: +19045511350
Operating Hours: 5 pm-2 am every day
Must-Try Items: A top-shelf Manhattan, $0.25 tacos
Average Cost: $0.25 taco, $4-$10 drinks
Website: Rogue
11. Pete’s Bar – Best Pub at the Beach
Ever since I started visiting Jacksonville over 5 years ago, I’ve fallen in love with Neptune Beach. The beach itself is beautiful and I think its charming “main” street is so much fun with its restaurants, shops, and bars – one of which happens to be Pete’s Bar.
Not only is Pete’s in an awesome location, just steps from the sand, but it also has quite a bit of history. In fact, it was the first bar to legally open in Duval County after the prohibition ended in 1933.
Now, it’s still a hotspot for Atlantic and Neptune Beach, where you’ll find live music, snooker and pool tables, and an awesome outdoor bar and patio. During the peak summer months, expect large crowds and a big atmosphere, especially on the weekends.
Pete’s Bar Information
Address: 117 First St, Neptune Beach, FL 32266
Phone: +19042499158
Operating Hours: 12 pm-2 am Every day
Must-Try Items: Keep it simple with a draft beer and a shot
Average Cost: $5-$10 drinks
Website: Pete’s Bar
12. Spliff’s Gastropub – Best Downtown Pub in Jacksonville
If you’re staying downtown and are looking for some comfort food, craft beer, and a chill environment, head over to Spliff’s Gastropub – you won’t be disappointed. It’s centrally located and is walkable from most downtown hotels.
In addition to an extensive tap list, they also have a full bar with friendly, skilled bartenders. Their menu is also really fantastic and creative. They have nearly a dozen mac and cheese options including The Brotherly Love with steak, provolone, peppers, and onions, and The Foghorn Leghorn with chicken, bacon, broccoli, and gouda.
Spliff’s Gastropub Information
Address: 100 E Forsyth St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: +19048445000
Operating Hours: 11 am-1 am every day
Must-Try Items: Any daily drink special, The Goat Boy sandwich, The Brotherly Love mac and cheese
Average Cost: $10-$16 food items, $6-$12 drinks
Website: Spliff’s Gastropub
13. Kickbacks Gastropub – Most Unique Pub
When I walked into Kickbacks Gastropub for the first time, I was blown away by how cool it was. I had never seen any place like it before and I’m so glad I stumbled across it.
The three-story building is 100 years old, and its main dining room is a steampunk museum featuring sculptures, paintings, and blacksmithing projects by famous artists. There’s also a backdrop made with 1.1 million pennies.
In addition to the impressive art, decor, and environment, they have over 200 beers on tap, a Belgian basement bar with 24 Belgian beers on tap, and incredible food.
Kickbacks Gastropub Information
Address: 910 King St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Phone: +19043889551
Operating Hours: 7 am-3 am every day
Must-Try Items: Any Belgian beer, Scotch eggs, Reese’s Pulled Pork Sandwich
Average Cost: $7-$29 foot items and $7-$15 drinks
Website: Kickbacks Gastropub
14. Rain Dogs – Best Low-Key Pub
Oftentimes, pubs and taverns can get crowded and loud, making it hard to even hear the person sitting next to you. I like hanging out at Rain Dogs because, unless it’s a scheduled event, it’s low-key, quiet, and relaxed.
They do hold live music, open mic, and trivia nights, but even then, the vibes at this local tavern are always chill. I happened to just pop in here one time and was greeted by a super-friendly bartender which led to some great conversation while I enjoyed my beer.
They also have local art shows and amateur comedy nights for patrons to enjoy.
Rain Dogs Information
Address: 1045 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Phone: +19043794969
Operating Hours: 7 am-1 am Every day
Must-Try Items: Your favorite craft beer or cocktail
Average Cost: $5-$10 drinks
Website: Rain Dogs
15. The Garage – Best Dog-Friendly Pub in Jacksonville
The Garage is a popular neighborhood pub that’s welcoming to all, including your pup. This dog-friendly pub has a large patio where you’re welcome to hang out and enjoy a night out with your (leashed) dog.
I love to come for happy hour which is available Monday through Saturday from 4 pm to 7 pm. They offer $3.75 Three Olives Vodka drinks and $1 off beer and wine. They also have live music on Fridays and Saturdays and chill reggae on Sundays.
They also have a massive menu featuring items like quesadillas, Philly sandwiches, sliders, a variety of grilled cheese options, and flatbread pizzas.
The Garage Information
Address: 2692 Post St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Phone: +19043742581
Operating Hours: 4 pm-2 am every day
Must-Try Items: Dirty martini, Funky Chicken grilled cheese, Garage fish sandwich
Average Cost: $7-$10 food items, $4-$10 drinks
Website: The Garage
Pub and Bar Tours in Jacksonville, Florida
With so many pubs in Jacksonville to choose from, it can be hard to figure out where to start – that’s when pub crawls and tours can help! Here are some of my favorite bar and pub crawls to let you sample some of Jax’s best spots while making forever memories:
Jacksonville Bar Hunt: Jammin’ Jacksonville
Complete crazy and fun photo and video challenges while heading to some of Jacksonville’s hottest bars, taverns, and pubs. You’ll download an app that will get you started with all your scavenger hunt needs – so simple and so fun! Learn more about this bar hunt here.
Jacksonville Yes, Queen! Tour Drag Queen Pub Crawl
Experience one of the most fabulous pub crawls hosted by outrageous and glamorous drag queens. It’s a tour you’ll definitely remember for a long time after. You’ll party like a rockstar as the drag queens take you to Jacksonville Beach’s most popular pubs and entertain you with various antics and performances. Learn more and book your pub crawl here.
Ped Pub Jacksonville
Explore bars and pubs by bike with all your friends on this super fun pub crawl. You’ll all climb aboard a Dutch Party Bike and pedal around for two hours while stopping at 2 to 3 of Jacksonville’s finest drinking establishments. Learn more and book your tour here.
Jacksonville, Florida Pubs: FAQs
Here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the best pubs in Jacksonville, Florida:
The best pubs in Jacksonville, FL, in my opinion, are Poe’s Tavern, Hoptinger, Strings Sports Brewery, and Kickbacks.
Yes, it is customary to tip service staff in Jacksonville, FL. 20% is the standard rule to follow.
The neighborhood that has the best pubs in Jacksonville, FL is the Avondale/Riverside area. Five Points and San Marco are great areas as well. Beach towns also have fantastic choices.
The average pint in Jacksonville, FL, costs around $7-$8. However, there are always happy hour deals around the city.
The most famous pub in Jacksonville, FL, would be the Palace Saloon in Fernandina Beach. It’s the oldest pub in the state of Florida.
The oldest pub in Jacksonville, FL, is the Palace Saloon in Fernandina Beach, which opened in 1903. Pete’s Bar in Neptune Beach is the oldest in Duval County and opened in 1933.
The main bar streets in Jacksonville, FL, are King Street, Park Street, and Laura Street.
The best area for nightlife in Jacksonville, FL, is the Avondale/Riverside area, Five Points, or Jacksonville Beach.
The pubs that locals frequent in Jacksonville, FL, are Monkey’s Uncle Tavern, Rain Dogs, and Shanty Town Pub.
No, there are no Michelin-starred pubs or restaurants in Jacksonville, FL.
Yes! Jacksonville has a vibrant and lively nightlife scene with bars, taverns, pubs, and nightclubs.
Yes! Jacksonville has a downtown area with bars, taverns, breweries, and more.
The drinking age in Jacksonville is 21 years old.
In Conclusion
Jacksonville’s pub scene is one of the best I’ve found in the southeast. Everything from Irish pubs to dive bars and everything in between – you can find it in Jax. So, whether you’re looking for a pint and live music or a quiet night with a classic cocktail, hopefully, this list helps guide you in the right direction.
The post 15 Best Pubs in Jacksonville in 2023 (By a Local) appeared first on Goats On The Road.
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