Gainesville, FL is popularly known as a college town with lots on offer apart from scorching game days and keg stands. Not many people are aware that the place has some of the top restaurants, which are frequented by university students, local people as well as international tourists. The best part of this place is diverse dining options, catering to all kinds of palate and fitting every budget.
If food is on your mind all the time, then give your taste buds a treat by choosing from a wide array of cuisines. You will be seriously spoilt for choices when it comes to choosing the best restaurants in Gainesville, FL. Following are some of the most happening restaurants and amazing places to eat in Gainesville FL.
Dragonfly Modern Izakaya & Sushi
Looking for the ideal restaurant to dive into some sumptuous Japanese fare and world-class sake in Gainesville, Florida? Look no further than Dragonfly Modern Izakaya & Sushi. A contemporary izakaya, the tapas-style Japanese spread and stylish interior make the space look chic. Try from the wide range of sashimi, sushi, and robatayaki at the restaurant, and you will crave more! The relaxed lounge ambiance and the assorted full sake bar will make your weekend dining special.
Address: 201 SE 2nd Avenue #104, Gainesville, FL 32601 | Timing: Sunday to Thursday: 05:00pm to 10:00pm; Friday & Saturday: 05:00pm to 11:00pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/DragonflyGainesville?share | Phone Number: +1 352-371-3359
Crane Ramen
As is evident from the name, Crane Ramen is a restaurant that specializes in varieties of ramen. The dining room in the restaurant comes with modern sitting arrangements. In the trendy ramen shop, you can try seven varieties of ramen ranging from shoyu to shio.
You can also choose from different kinds of extra toppings, which make the ramen all the more delectable. Some of the most popular toppings include bok choy, pork belly, and six-minute eggs. Enjoy your food here with friends and family!
Address: 16 SW, 1st Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 | Timing: 11:00am to 04:00pm and 05:00pm to 09:00pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/THpWXRNaYyfijGVQ6 | Phone Number: +1 352-727-7422
Uppercrust Productions
Since its inception in 1981, this artisan bakery has served world-class baking items. Today, it is a leading food institution in Gainesville, Florida. On entering the bakery, you can experience a distinctly European feel. The yellow-tinted lighting imparts a unique feel to the place.
Pastries, croissants, and bread are baked daily to make sure they are fresh and tasty. Do not miss the baguettes, which are served in woven baskets and look awesome! The taste and flavors of the bakery items linger in the mouth for a long time.
Address: 4118 NW, 16th Boulevard, Gainesville, FL 32605 | Timing: 08:00am to 07:00pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/uppercrustgnv?share | Phone Number: +1 352-376-7187
Embers Wood Grill
Embers Wood Grille is a great restaurant if you are looking for upscale dining options in Gainesville, FL. Apart from local people, this food stop also has guests and visitors from High Springs and Ocala. The menu of the restaurant boasts an extensive range of dishes. The blue crab bisque is one of the most favorite appetizers served at the place and a must-try item on the menu.
The graduation season is a very busy time for the restaurant. It is recommended to book reservations for dining in the restaurant at this time.
Address: 3545SW 34th Street, Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32608 | Timing: Monday to Thursday: 05:00pm to 09:00pm; Friday & Saturday: 05:00pm to 10:00pm, Sunday closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/skVaj4V916nFFFMF7 | Phone Number: +1 352-380-0974
Arepas Milko
This is a family-owned food truck, serving authentic Venezuelan food. Some of the favorite items of Arepas Milko include potato and cheese pastelito, teque cachapas, cachapa, tequenos, fried arepa with pulled pork, etc. There are many outlets of Arepas Milko across Florida. The available items are excellent as snacks and can also be devoured for lunch/dinner.
Address: 405 NW 13th Street, Gainesville FL 32601 | Timing: Monday to Thursday: closed; Friday & Saturday: 05:00pm to 11:00pm; Sunday: 05:00pm to 10:00pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/w4U3wexCsNcWnAGJ8 | Phone Number: +1 352-222-4007
Ichiban Sushi
Want to check out the finest raw fish specialties in Gainesville? Then look no further. As the name suggests, sushi is the specialty of this restaurant though the menu also features Asian fusion food.
The top picks of the restaurant include yellowtail, octopus and volcano rolls. The spicy conch roll is a traditional Florida delicacy and a favorite among the diners. Fresh fish is used here, giving you an ultimate value-for-money experience.
Address: 4928NW 39th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 33928 | Timing: Sunday to Thursday: 11:30am to 9:00pm; Friday & Saturday: 11:30am to 10:00pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/IchibanFlorida?share | Phone Number: +1 352-375-8880
Northwest Grille
Northwest Grille is a seafood lover’s paradise in Gainesville. Freshest seafood is available in the restaurant. This is a family-owned eatery with exotic ocean-themed and beach regalia décor.
Chris Fennell is the owner and chef at the place, cooking delectable food with locally sourced items. The wild-caught alligator tail or Florida mahi-mahi are special dishes here. Along with the great food, the staff is super friendly, too. Grab a place in the dining room or enjoy your food on the porch.
Address: 5115NW 39th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32606 | Timing: Monday to Thursday: 11:00am to 10:00pm; Friday: 11:00am to 11:00pm; Saturday & Sunday: 10:00am to 10:00pm, Weekend brunch: 10:00am to 3:00pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/3w1Pya44CikEGv1j9 | Phone Number: +1 352-376-0500
Madrina’s
This quaint and intimate cocktail bar at Gainesville has drawn a lot of attention off late from local residents as well as tourists. The bar’s interior is superbly done with fun, hip, and modern elements.
The drinks are refreshing and heady with an extensive cocktail menu. Interestingly, there are some creative and fun drink options at the place. This is a perfect destination in Gainesville, Florida to spend an evening with friends as you chug away a pint of beer or two.
Address: 9W University Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday: 05:00pm to 12.00am, Sunday: 05:00pm to 10:00pm, Monday closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7H5Jg5eiHXFhcHEv9 | Phone Number: +1 352-505-0455
Satchel’s Pizza
Dining at Satchel’s Pizza is an experience in itself. You won’t feel it until you visit the place. The restaurant’s setting allows you to enjoy your pizza inside a van, under a plane, or even in a greenhouse. Doesn’t that sound interesting?
The ambiance and the décor of the restaurant grab more eyeballs than the food. Various repurposed items are used for the interior as well as exterior décor of the place, making it unique. Dining experience at Satchel’s Pizza is worth remembering!
By Todd Van Hoosear, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: 1800NE 23rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609 | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00am to 10:00pm; Sunday & Monday: closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/1sEnXA44NKS4TWao8 | Phone Number: +1 352-335-7272
The Top
The Top is one of the most popular patio bars and restaurants and a favorite among the Gators — the local intercollegiate athletic teams. Located in downtown Gainesville, this place is a favorite among vegetarians, vegans, and people who love their food and beer. The décor of the interiors is unique. If you want to enjoy a pint of beer, you can go to the beer garden.
The food menu at the restaurant mainly comprises American cuisine. The freshest of the fresh local ingredients are used to make the dishes, lending them great taste and flavors. Drop by for a delicious meal here, and you will not be disappointed!
Address: 30N Main Street Gainesville, FL 32601 | Timing: Tuesday to Sunday: 05:00pm to 10:00pm, Patio bar open till midnight | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KvFUqPCAsoLtpSrJ6 | Phone Number: +1 352-337-1188
La Cocina de Abuela
La Cocina de Abuela in Gainesville, Florida is your one-stop destination for all kinds of food. The restaurant offers a family-style menu for almost four to five people. Some of the items on this menu include pork and potato stew, mojo pulled pork, curry chicken stew, ropa vieja, etc.
There are also lunch specials and regular entrees along with an elaborate spread of side dishes in a la carte. For quick bites and snacks, choose from wide varieties of sandwiches, antojitos, shakes, beverages, desserts, and coffee. There is a special menu for kids too.
Address: 125NW 23rd Avenue Gainesville, FL 32609 | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00am to 6:00pm, Sunday & Monday closed | Google Map Location: https://g.page/abuelasgainesville?share | Phone Number: +1 352-204-5561
Alpin Bistro
This French bistro is one of the top downtown Gainesville restaurants and is frequented by students completing their Master’s or higher education in the town. Sip on some exotic wine in the place, and you can talk the night away. Choose from classics like charcuterie, homemade quiches, or croque monsieurs.
The interiors are chic and pleasant and different from the other high-end restaurants and eateries at the place. Enjoy the Saturday brunch, and you might be lucky to catch some live music, as well.
Address: 15 SW 2nd Street, Gainesville, FL 32601 | Timing: Dinner: Tuesday to Thursday 5.00pm to 10.00pm, Friday & Saturday 5.00pm to 11.00pm, Saturday Brunch 11.00am to 3.00pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/alpin-bistro-32601?share | Phone Number: +1 352-204-2873
Mac’s Drive – Thru
Looking for a quick bite with local flavor to satiate your hunger pangs? Mac’s Drive Thru serves amazing food in the form of sumptuous fries, burgers, and crushed ice. The best thing is that burgers are made every day and, hence, are fresh.
It is a favorite destination among the local people, who often frequent the place. Added to the amazing burgers is the excellent service of the friendly staff. However, keep your wallet full as they only accept cash.
Address: 129NW 10th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601 | Timing: Monday to Friday: 9:00am to 4:00pm, Saturday & Sunday: closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/B71xVnU8crLkeJto9 | Phone Number: +1 352-378-9842
Yummy House
Yummy House is the place to be when you have authentic Cantonese food on your mind. Various kinds of dim-sum, particularly Chinese tapas, are the place’s main attraction, and they are served between 11.00 am and 2.30 pm. The food is taken in carts from one table to another.
Some traditional favorite items include steamed dumplings, honey-glazed barbecue pork buns, and fried taro cakes. If you miss the cart timings, choose your food from the regular menu, which is equally drool-worthy.
Address: 3102SW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608 | Timing: Lunch: Monday to Sunday: 11:00am to 02:30pm, Dinner: Monday to Saturday: 5:00pm to 09:30pm, Sunday: 5:00pm to 9:00pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/a66wz9JRZz6p1KtK7 | Phone Number: +1 352-333-7688
Indian Cuisine
Love Indian food? The spicy curries and the breads and the rice? Well, at this Indian eatery, you will be spoilt for choices when it comes to selecting dishes. A wide variety of curries are served in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Every day there is a buffet lunch spread, where you can try all the curries and other traditional Indian dishes with your favorite staple – naan bread or basmati rice.
Address: 3550SW 34th Street, Suite A, Gainesville, FL 32608 | Timing: Lunch: Tuesday to Sunday: 11:30am to 2:30pm, Dinner: Tuesday to Sunday: 5:00pm to 09.00pm; Monday: closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/TKGdwkhqGGvyKmHH6 | Phone Number: +1 352-271-1190
If you are a foodie, you will never be disappointed during your stay here with this list of some of the best restaurants in Gainesville. And the best part is there is something to suit every taste and budget. So hop on to the food wagon, and munch your way to glory.
