Savor the Flavor: A Guide to the Best New Smyrna Beach Restaurants

Discovering Culinary Delights in New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, a hidden gem on the Atlantic coast, isn’t just known for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It’s also a burgeoning culinary destination, boasting a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every palate. From fresh seafood shacks to upscale dining experiences, New Smyrna Beach restaurants offer a delectable journey for food enthusiasts. This guide will take you through some of the best dining establishments in the area, ensuring you make the most of your culinary adventure.

Seafood Sensations: Restaurants Embracing the Ocean’s Bounty

Given its coastal location, New Smyrna Beach excels in seafood. Here are a few must-try seafood restaurants:

JB’s Fish Camp

JB’s Fish Camp is an institution in New Smyrna Beach. Located right on the water, it offers stunning views and a casual, rustic ambiance. The menu is packed with fresh catches, including blackened mahi-mahi, grilled shrimp, and their famous clam chowder. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a sunset dinner while listening to live music.

  • Must-Try: Blackened Mahi-Mahi, Clam Chowder
  • Ambiance: Casual, Rustic, Waterfront
  • Price Range: $$

Ocean Breeze Restaurant

For a more upscale seafood experience, Ocean Breeze Restaurant is an excellent choice. The elegant dining room and attentive service create a sophisticated atmosphere. The menu features creative seafood dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their raw bar is also a highlight, offering a variety of oysters, clams, and shrimp.

  • Must-Try: Seafood Paella, Raw Bar Selection
  • Ambiance: Upscale, Elegant
  • Price Range: $$$

Norwood’s Eatery & Bar

Norwood’s is a long-standing favorite, known for its fresh seafood and extensive wine list. The restaurant has a charming, old-Florida feel, with cozy indoor and outdoor seating areas. The menu features classic seafood dishes like shrimp scampi, fried oysters, and grilled grouper. Don’t miss their happy hour specials!

  • Must-Try: Shrimp Scampi, Grilled Grouper
  • Ambiance: Charming, Old-Florida
  • Price Range: $$

Casual Dining: Comfort Food and Beach Vibes

Sometimes, you just want a relaxed meal in a casual setting. New Smyrna Beach has plenty of options for that too:

The Breakers Restaurant

Located right on the beach, The Breakers Restaurant is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Enjoy classic American fare like burgers, sandwiches, and salads while soaking up the ocean views. Their outdoor deck is a popular spot for watching surfers and enjoying the sea breeze.

  • Must-Try: Breakers Burger, Fish Tacos
  • Ambiance: Casual, Beachfront
  • Price Range: $

Third Wave Cafe

Third Wave Cafe offers a laid-back atmosphere with delicious food and drinks. They are known for their delicious pizzas and wide selection of craft beers. Enjoy live music on the weekends.

  • Must-Try: Pizza, Craft Beers
  • Ambiance: Relaxed, Casual
  • Price Range: $$

Cafe Heavenly

For breakfast or lunch, Cafe Heavenly is a must-visit. This cozy cafe serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and homemade pastries. Their coffee is excellent, and the friendly staff makes you feel right at home.

  • Must-Try: Sandwiches, Homemade Pastries
  • Ambiance: Cozy, Friendly
  • Price Range: $

International Flavors: A Global Culinary Journey

New Smyrna Beach isn’t just about seafood and American fare. You can also find a variety of international cuisines:

SoNapa Grille

SoNapa Grille offers a taste of California wine country in New Smyrna Beach. The menu features upscale American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their wine list is extensive, and the knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect pairing for your meal.

  • Must-Try: Grilled Steak, Seasonal Specials
  • Ambiance: Upscale, California-Inspired
  • Price Range: $$$

AA Garden Fusion

AA Garden Fusion brings Asian flavors to New Smyrna Beach with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, noodle dishes, and entrees inspired by Japanese, Thai, and Chinese cuisine. The stylish decor and creative cocktails make it a great spot for a special occasion.

  • Must-Try: Sushi Rolls, Pad Thai
  • Ambiance: Modern, Stylish
  • Price Range: $$

Spanish River Grill

For Caribbean-inspired cuisine, Spanish River Grill is a local favorite. The menu features a variety of flavorful dishes, including jerk chicken, coconut shrimp, and Cuban sandwiches. The colorful decor and lively atmosphere transport you to the islands.

  • Must-Try: Jerk Chicken, Coconut Shrimp
  • Ambiance: Lively, Caribbean
  • Price Range: $$

Fine Dining Experiences: Elevating the Culinary Scene

For those seeking a more refined dining experience, New Smyrna Beach offers several excellent fine dining establishments:

The Garlic

The Garlic is a unique and memorable dining experience. The restaurant is set in a lush, tropical garden, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. The menu features Italian-inspired dishes with a focus on fresh seafood and homemade pasta. The garlic bread is a must-try!

  • Must-Try: Garlic Bread, Homemade Pasta
  • Ambiance: Romantic, Tropical Garden
  • Price Range: $$$

River Deck Tiki Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy waterfront dining with a tropical twist at River Deck Tiki Bar & Restaurant. This restaurant offers stunning views of the Indian River and a menu of delicious seafood and American dishes. The tiki bar serves up creative cocktails, and the live music adds to the festive atmosphere.

  • Must-Try: Seafood Platter, Tropical Cocktails
  • Ambiance: Waterfront, Tropical
  • Price Range: $$

Black Dolphin Inn Restaurant

Located within the Black Dolphin Inn, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative presentations. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest available produce, and the wine list is carefully curated to complement the dishes.

  • Must-Try: Seasonal Specials, Wine Pairings
  • Ambiance: Sophisticated, Intimate
  • Price Range: $$$$

Breakfast and Brunch Spots: Starting Your Day Right

Don’t forget about breakfast! New Smyrna Beach has some great spots to start your day:

Mon Delice French Bakery

Mon Delice French Bakery offers authentic French pastries, breads, and coffee. It’s the perfect place to grab a croissant and a cappuccino before hitting the beach.

  • Must-Try: Croissants, Coffee
  • Ambiance: Authentic French Bakery
  • Price Range: $

Sunshine Park Mall Flea Market and Farmers Market

Every Saturday, Sunshine Park Mall hosts a flea market and farmers market where you can find local vendors selling fresh produce, homemade goods, and breakfast items.

  • Must-Try: Local Produce, Homemade Goods
  • Ambiance: Flea Market, Farmers Market
  • Price Range: $

Grind and Grape

Grind and Grape is a coffee shop and wine bar that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their breakfast menu includes bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries.

  • Must-Try: Breakfast Sandwiches, Coffee
  • Ambiance: Coffee Shop, Wine Bar
  • Price Range: $

Tips for Dining in New Smyrna Beach

  • Make Reservations: Especially during peak season, it’s a good idea to make reservations, particularly for dinner.
  • Check for Specials: Many restaurants offer daily or weekly specials, so be sure to ask your server.
  • Consider the Location: Do you want a beachfront view, a romantic garden setting, or a casual spot downtown? Choose a restaurant that matches your desired ambiance.
  • Explore Different Cuisines: Don’t be afraid to try something new! New Smyrna Beach offers a diverse range of culinary experiences.
  • Support Local Businesses: By dining at locally owned restaurants, you’re supporting the community and helping to preserve the unique character of New Smyrna Beach.

Conclusion: A Culinary Paradise Awaits

New Smyrna Beach restaurants offer a diverse and delicious culinary landscape, waiting to be explored. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, international flavors, or a casual bite, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite. So, come hungry and get ready to savor the flavors of New Smyrna Beach!

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