Over the last decade, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at a wide array of the best restaurants in Daytona Beach. I travel to the area regularly to enjoy the beaches, take part in Bike Week, or catch a concert at the Daytona International Speedway.
During such events, picking a new restaurant to try out is always one of the main draws of a holiday or getaway to the area – especially if you have children, because they are seemingly always hungry and love going out to eat.
Finding the best places to eat in Daytona Beach is always fun because there are a lot of diners, restaurants, cafes, pubs, and resorts to pick from. You can find great food on any budget in the area from hip beach bars to downtown pubs, resorts, and five-star restaurants.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most mouthwatering choices and I’ll share a few of my favorites based on my experiences.
15 Best Restaurants in Daytona Beach
After extensively exploring the restaurant scene, I’ve compiled a list of the best places to eat in Daytona Beach. This selection is based on food quality, service, location, personal preference, and customer reviews. Despite dining at numerous establishments during my stay, I’ve narrowed my favorites down to these 15 great spots:
1. Crabbys Oceanside
(Best Restaurant in Daytona Beach Overall)
It was a hard task to pick the best restaurant in Daytona Beach, but my top spot goes to Crabbys Oceanside. Every time I visit Daytona Beach, my children beg to go to this wonderfully unique restaurant. Not only do they serve fresh and mouthwatering seafood choices, but the atmosphere is truly one of a kind; making it one of the top restaurants in Daytona Beach.
You can pick between indoor or outdoor seating, but I prefer the outdoor option as you can soak up the sea breeze and enjoy the panoramic views. My favorite dish is always the fresh Gulf grouper with a side of clam chowder – which is the best chowder this side of Boston. It’s the best seafood restaurant in Daytona Beach, even children will love the beach tacos stuffed with grouper.
Crabbys Oceanside Information
Address: 451 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13864005560
Operating Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11 am to 10 pm and Friday and Saturday 11 am to 11 pm
Must-Try Meals: Grouper (market price varies), beach tacos $18, coconut shrimp $21.99
Average Cost: $12 – $21 per starter, $18 – $30 per main
Website: https://crabbysoceanside.com
2. Ocean Deck (Best Restaurant with a View)
If you’re seeking an upscale establishment with amazing beach views then look no further than Ocean Deck. Ask any of the locals, and they will list this place as one of the nicest restaurants in Daytona Beach. They offer fresh seafood choices and simple foods such as burgers and fries (which my kids love because they provide generous portions of fries).
This restaurant has a distinctly tropical feel to it and offers a huge drinks menu with lots of yummy alcoholic (and non-alcoholic) drink choices. The wine selection isn’t bad either. Many visitors to the city, and locals alike, consider the Ocean Deck one of the best restaurants in Daytona Beach.
Ocean Deck Information
Address: 127 S Ocean Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13862535224
Operating Hours: Open seven days a week 11 am to 2 am
Must-Try Meals: Gator Bites, Crunchy Tuna, Crab Cake Dinner
Average Cost: $9 – $16 per starter, $24 – $30 per main
Website: https://oceandeck.com/home
3. Tiano’s (Best Italian Food)
If you’re seeking impressive Italian food or an outstanding pizza, then look no further than Tiano’s. My favorite thing to order here is the House Pizza, which is made with small cherry tomatoes, parmesan cheese shavings, and without sauce. My two children and I always share the pizza and on occasion, we add extra toppings.
If you don’t feel like pizza or a big Italian meal then you can opt for a fresh and crisp salad. My daughter is a salad lover and she adores the Tianos salad. The appetizers are also a great way to enjoy a small-sized meal at an affordable price.
Tiano’s Information
Address: 1860 Victory Cir, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: +13864929240
Operating Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday 11 am to 9 pm, closed on Mondays
Must-Try Meals: Pizza, Tianos Salad, Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
Average Cost: $9 – $14 per starter, $18 – $30 per main
Website: http://tianosnsb.com
4. Boondocks (Best Restaurant with a Patio)
The Boondocks is an open-air restaurant located at a marina. You can soak up the ocean breeze while enjoying amazing food choices; it’s the best outdoor restaurant in Daytona Beach, without a doubt. I love it here.
Grab a drink at the tiki bar or enjoy a table with a view. If you’re looking for somewhere to visit with someone special, this is also one of the most romantic restaurants in Daytona Beach, where you’re afforded a truly outstanding sunset view as the sun sinks across the Halifax River. Share a plate of amazing coconut shrimp and a couple of tropical adult beverages.
Boondocks Information
Address: 3948 S Peninsula Dr, Port Orange, FL 32127
Phone: +13867609001
Operating Hours: Open seven days a week 11 am to 9 pm
Must-Try Meals: Coconut Shrimp, Shrimp Dinner, Build Your own Pasta Bowl
Average Cost: $9 – $26 per starter, $17 – 22 per main
Website: https://www.boondocks-restaurant.com
5. Chart House (Best for Fine Dining)
The view from the Chart House is truly stunning. You can look out over the Halifax River, and if you are lucky, you’ll see passing dolphins as they swim and play in the water. On occasion, you can also see manatees floating outside the windows.
This restaurant serves the freshest seafood around, but my personal favorite is their famous lava cake for dessert. If you’re a chocolate lover then you’re going to want to dive into this delectable cake and pudding mix. Order two spoons if you’re dining with your significant other because the cake is large and can easily be shared by two.
Chart House Information
Address: 1100 Marina Point Dr, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: +13862559022
Operating Hours: 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm, Mon-Thurs, 4:30 pm to 10 pm Friday – Saturday
Must-Try Meals: Snapper, Mahi Mahi, Lave Cake
Average Cost: $11 – $20 per starter, $30 – $43 per main, $11 for desserts
Website: https://www.chart-house.com
6. Hog Heaven (Best Restaurant for Lunch)
If you find yourself craving a barbecue sandwich then you’re sure to fall in love with Hog Heaven. They serve up fresh BBQ daily and their portions are generous, making them a favorite local hotspot for lunch.
Hog Heaven is great for cheap eats in Daytona Beach thanks to their affordable prices. Stop by to dine in or order takeout for a picnic. Sometimes I pick up lunch and head to a local park to enjoy the food, especially during the winter months when the weather is comfortably mild – not too hot and not too cold.
Hog Heaven Information
Address: 37 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13862571212
Operating Hours: 11 am- 10 pm seven days per week
Must-Try Meals: Fried green pickles, brisket sandwich, BBQ combo plate
Average Cost: $10 – $12 per starter, $10 – $15 for sandwiches, $15 – $24 combo dinner entrees
Website: https://hogheavendaytona.com
7. McK’s Tavern (Best Pub Food)
Who doesn’t love some great pub grub? One thing I particularly enjoy about this spot is that you can catch the game while you eat. At McK’s they offer American classics and it’s the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a burger and fries or an appetizer platter with your friends.
Every October, McK’s hosts an Oktoberfest street party where you can enjoy the best street food in Daytona Beach. It’s a brilliant night out where you can expect to find live music, dancing, street artists, vendor stands, and more at the festival.
McK’s Tavern Information
Address: 218 S Beach St, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: +13862383321
Operating Hours: 11 am-12 am Sunday -Thursday, 11 am to 2 am Friday – Saturday
Must-Try Meals: Mac and Cheese Eggrolls, Flatbread Pizza, Burgers
Average Cost: $10 – $12 per starter, $15 – $25per main
Website: https://www.mckstavern.com
8. Evolve Modern Vegan Kitchen (Best Vegan Restaurant)
If you’re seeking the best vegetarian or vegan restaurant in Daytona Beach, then you’ll be happy to discover Evolve Modern Vegan Kitchen. All of the food served is 100% plant-based comfort foods. The meal choices are all vegan which makes the restaurant ideal, not only for vegan diners, but also for those who are vegetarian.
You can choose from smash burgers or chuckuns, and they also offer quick mac and cheese bowls and BBQ pulled porc. My kids are always amazed when we dine at this location because they truly can’t tell the difference between chuckuns and chicken nuggets.
Evolve Modern Vegan Kitchen Information
Address: 318 Seabreeze Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13863668415
Operating Hours: 12 pm -11 pm Friday through Saturday. 12 pm – 10 pm Sunday, 5 – 10 pm Monday through Thursday
Must-Try Meals: Chuckums, smashburger, porc
Average Cost: $5 – $9 per starter, $10 – $12 per main
Website: https://www.evolvemodernvegankitchen.com
9. Landshark (Best for Eclectic Charm)
The Landshark is one of the most fun places to eat in Daytona Beach. It has a tiki hut atmosphere with music (which is usually live) and a very chilled, vacation-like ambiance. Essentially, if you think about a beachside hotspot, this is it.
It’s an ideal place to head to with a group of friends, and they happily cater for events such as birthday celebrations upon request. Try their Landshark fish and chips, made with original batter, and served with jalapeño tatar sauce – it’s a winner for sure.
Grab a drink and some grub at affordable prices while soaking up the charming surroundings. In my opinion, it’s one of the best restaurants in Daytona Beach on the water. I always have a good time whenever my family and I eat here.
Landshark Information
Address: 471 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13862561248
Operating Hours: 11 am-11 pm seven days a week
Must-Try Meals: Fish tacos, Baja crab cakes, seafood steam pot
Average Cost: Prices depend on locations
Website: https://daytona.landsharkbarandgrill.com
10. Streamline Rooftop (Best Rooftop Bar)
If you’d like to enjoy a cool beverage and a small plate of delicious food while soaking up the ambiance of a rooftop bar then head to the Streamline Rooftop, located within the Streamline Hotel. This establishment has been a part of Daytona Beach since 1940 and it’s a great place to book for a date night, simply because the views alone are outstanding.
Fair warning – this place fills up on the weekends so you might have a hard time finding a table. If you arrive late, the crowds will have started to thin out, but that’s not always a guarantee on Fridays or Saturdays, so prepare to be patient. Specializing in steaks, burgers, and seafood, there’s something to please everyone here.
Streamline Rooftop Information
Address: 140 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13869477470
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 3 pm – 10 pm, Friday & Saturday, 11 am – 11 pm, Sunday 11 am – 10 pm, closed Monday
Must-Try Meals: Nachos, cheese sticks, fries
Average Cost: Prices vary
Website: https://streamlinehotel.com
11. Joes Crab Shack (Best Iconic Establishment)
If you’ve ever walked Daytona Beach, or have been on the boardwalk, then you’ll have seen Joe’s Crab Shack sitting out at the end of the iconic pier. Honestly, it’s hard to miss the blue and white building. I love walking out along the pier with my kids to reach the restaurant, and at night, it looks magical as the lights twinkle across the water.
As the name might suggest, Joe’s Crab Shack serves up some pretty epic crab and seafood dishes. As well as the likes of crab plates and calamari, you’ll also find sandwiches, soups, tacos, and more. With the option to pick your choice of crab and your flavor preference, it’s a great place to go for fussy eaters who know exactly what they want.
Joe’s Crab Shack is the best restaurant in Daytona Beach with a sea view. My two children ask to eat here every time we go to the oceanside. It’s open daily and is the perfect place to dine if you’re trying to figure out where to eat in Daytona Beach. In my opinion, this is one of the best waterfront restaurants in Daytona Beach.
Joes Crab Shack Information
Address: 1200 Main St Bridge, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13862384050
Operating Hours: 11 am – 10 pm Friday and Saturday, 11 am – 9 pm Monday through Thursday
Must-Try Meals: Crab stuffed mushrooms, Pick Your Crab Feast, Steampots
Average Cost: $14-$25 per starter, $25 -$55 per main
Website: https://www.joescrabshack.com
12. Cruisin Cafe (Best for Classic Charm)
The Cruisin Cafe is a dining establishment that’s loaded with charm and is one of the best family restaurants in Daytona Beach – especially if your kids love cars. Each table has a motorsport theme so don’t be surprised if your children repeatedly ask to come back to this restaurant just so they can sit at a different table, (talking from experience!).
They serve the biggest burger in Daytona Beach known as the ‘Cruisin Cup Burger’, which contains over two pounds of meat! Often, when you dine at the cafe, you’ll notice people ordering the large burger to see exactly how much they can eat. Will you accept the challenge?
Cruisin Cafe Information
Address: 2 S Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13862535522
Operating Hours: 12 pm – 2:30 pm, Thursday through Monday, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Must-Try Meals: Classic burger and fries
Average Cost: $9 -$15 per starter, $15 – 25 per main
Website: https://www.cruisincafe.com
13. Brunch Daytona Restaurant (Best Brunch)
Yes, there is a place in Daytona Beach where you can enjoy brunch. In fact, out of all the options available, many consider the Brunch Restaurant one of the best breakfasts in Daytona Beach. It’s a lively restaurant with a great atmosphere, and I’m yet to order anything from here that I haven’t enjoyed.
Choose from all of the classics such as waffles, pancakes, omelets, and more. I particularly love the waffles and my daughter’s favorite is a waffle with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
Brunch Daytona Restaurant Information
Address: 2071 LPGA Blvd #400, Daytona Beach, FL 32117
Phone: +13862655544
Operating Hours: 7 am-3 pm, Saturday-Sunday, 7 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday
Must-Try Meals: Omelets, Waffles, Pancakes
Average Cost: $10-$22 main
Website: https://www.brunchdaytona.com
14. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse (Best Steakhouse)
If you’re looking for one of the leading, traditional restaurants in Daytona Beach that offers up a steak grilled to perfection then you’ll love the Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse. This restaurant is known for its legendary boutique steaks and optimum seafood choices, and you won’t be disappointed, no matter what you order.
It’s the perfect restaurant for a romantic night date night thanks to the ambient lighting, quiet atmosphere, and spectacular views. Their chef-inspired menu is sure to impress and they have a great wine list to accompany whichever plate you choose.
Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse Information
Address: 100 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13862269844
Operating Hours: 4 pm – 9:30 pm seven days a week
Must-Try Meals: Filet mignon, the Tony Steward steak, flaming butter cake
Average Cost: $15-$25 per starter, $50-120 per main, $10 – $15 for desserts
Website: https://www.hydeparkrestaurants.com
15. Starlite Diner (Best Cheap Restaurant)
Visiting the Starlite Diner is like stepping back in time. It’s harkons to the 1940s and is fun for all ages. In fact, it’s one of the best local restaurants in Daytona Beach for affordable food.
With its slogan “As American as Apple Pie”, this place serves up hearty portions of American Classics. My go-to order is the cheeseburger and fries, but you can choose from a wide range of hearty meals such as “Mom’s Meatloaf” or the “Smothered Pork Chop Dinner”.
It’s a great option for families as children will love eating here because of its fun appearance. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and offering some truly moreish deserts, it’s a great choice for any time of day.
Starlite Diner Information
Address: 401 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Phone: +13863015796
Operating Hours: 7 am-9 pm seven days a week
Must-Try Meals: Biscuits and gravy, waffles, chicken tenders
Average Cost: $10-$15 main
Website: https://www.starlitedinerdb.com
Must-Try Meals in Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach is located on the Atlantic Ocean, so unsurprisingly, it’s well-known as a hub for the freshest seafood. Many are also surprised to learn that steak is a big thing in Florida. In fact, The Sunshine State is home to over one million head of cattle.
Here’s a list of dishes not to miss when visiting Daytona Beach:
Dish 1: Mahi Mahi Tacos
Mahi Mahi tacos are a great lunch option and many of the new restaurants in Dayton Beach have added the tacos to either their appetizer menu or their lunch choices. Grilled to perfection using seasonal fish, warm tortillas, crispy vegetables, and tangy sauces, these tacos are truly delicious.
Dish 2: Daytona Beach Shrimp and Grits
A true Southern classic dish that features succulent shrimp served on a bed of creamy grits, often infused with local spices and sauces. If you’re a seafood lover then this is a must-try dish. Many locals order shrimp and grits for breakfast or lunch.
Dish 3: Florida Key Lime Pie
If you’re visiting the Sunshine State then you’ll want to find the best places to eat in Daytona Beach that serve up a delectable piece of key lime pie. Each bite will melt in your mouth followed by a sight twang. You’ll quickly learn why the Florida Key Lime Pie is number one.
Dish 4: Cuban Sandwich
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine with a Cuban sandwich. This mouthwatering delight features layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami, all pressed between Cuban bread and grilled to crispy perfection.
Dish 5: Gator Tail Bites
For the adventurous foodie, try gator tail bites. Breaded and fried, these bite-sized portions offer a unique taste of Florida’s exotic culinary scene. If you’ve never tried these tasty nuggets then make sure you don’t miss the chance whilst in Daytona Beach.
Food Tours in Daytona Beach
If you’re a passionate foodie, then you probably want to try everything that the area has to offer. One way to ensure that you experience the best restaurants in the area is to book a guided tour, which will often include a variety of foods to try, or at least provide you with discounts when ordering.
Dive Bar Bus Crawl from Daytona Beach
Experience pub food from a whole new perspective with the Dive Bar Bus Crawl from Daytona Beach. This Daytona Beach pub crawl adventure lets you experience the vibrant energy of some of the quirkiest dive bars in the area, with a special visit to the Copper Bottom Craft Distillery where you can enjoy a truly delightful tasting session.
Relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that takes you from dive bar to dive bar. Find out more information here.
The Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour
Great wine and awesome food – it’s a win/win tour. During this tour, you’ll head to three of our four wine bars where you’ll have the opportunity to grab a bite to eat – if you want, and try some local vino. You’ll also receive some excellent discounts on food. Book a tour here.
Daytona Beach: Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show
Experience the sensational Polynesian Fire Luau with a show, fantastic foods, native dancers, live music, and more. The cuisine is made up of traditional flavors and choices and it’s a great night out for the whole family. Click here to book a tour.
Build Your own Food Tour
When I visit Daytona Beach with my family, we always sit down to pick the best restaurants to try in Daytona Beach. We then make a list of where to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Sometimes we even throw in an ice cream shop or some other place to grab a sweet treat. Use this list as a guide!
Full-Day E-Bike Rental
Experience the bustling beach city from an e-bike, as you zip around the city and stop at the best places to eat in Daytona Beach. Helmets and locks are included so you can hop off the bike, chain it up, and dine wherever you wish. Book a tour here.
Daytona Beach Restaurants: FAQs
Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions about the best restaurants in Daytona Beach, Florida:
The best restaurants in Daytona Beach run the gamut from dive pubs like McK’s Tavern to high-end restaurants such as Crabby’s Oceanside.
Dinner time in Daytona Beach varies from as early as 5 pm, to as late as 9 pm. On the weekends, some people will even dine at 10 or 11 pm.
Lunch in Daytona Beach usually starts at around 11 am and will run until 1 or 2 pm.
Breakfast in Daytona Beach can start as early as 6 am and typically run until 10 am, depending on the establishment.
Yes, it is customary to tip in Daytona Beach. You will tip the service staff such as waiters and bartenders. Usually, you’ll tip from 15% – 20% of the total bill before taxes. Some restaurants do add the gratuity to the bill so always check first.
The neighborhood with the best restaurants stands out as the beachfront areas along Main Street and Ocean Avenue.
McK’s Tavern stands out as the best pub food in Daytona Beach.
Ocean Deck is the best restaurant in Daytona Beach with a view.
The locals eat in Daytona Beach at many restaurants such as the Cruissin Cafe, Hog Heaven, and Brunch Daytona.
The best food Daytona Beach is known for is its fresh seafood selections. Enjoy grouper, crab, and more.
Virtually all of the restaurants in Daytona Beach have a casual dress code.
In Conclusion
Daytona Beach is more than just a beachside town travel destination. It’s a location that’s alive with a diverse dining scene. You’ll find fresh seafood, juicy steaks, American classics, vegan choices, and more. The best places to eat in Daytona Beach are wonderfully unique and delectable.
Any time I visit Daytona Beach, one of the things I look forward to is dining at favorites such as Joe’s Crab Shack, Crabby’s Oceanside, or Boondocks. Whether dining on a budget or splurging, know that you’ll find the best restaurants in Daytona Beach to meet your tastes and needs.
The post 15 Best Restaurants in Daytona Beach (Top Places to Eat) appeared first on Goats On The Road.
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