By: Susan and Peter Martin

Best of the Best Award Recipient

There are restaurants you enjoy, restaurants you recommend, and then there are restaurants that quietly become part of your regular life. South Kitchen & Spirits in Nocatee has become exactly that for us. Susan and I have visited multiple times over the years, and every meal reminds us why this warm and welcoming local spot continues to earn its place as one of our Favorite Tables Around Town.

One of our favorite indulgences anywhere in Northeast Florida is their now legendary Chicken & Waffles, which earned our Culinary Duo “Best of the Best” distinction. Coming from the Northeast, Peter initially struggled with the concept of fried chicken and waffles living together on the same plate. Susan still jokes that his eventual conversion rivaled restaurants around the country, and none have come close to what South Kitchen delivers consistently.

On this visit, the kitchen surprised us again.

We started with Fried Green Tomatoes topped with pimento cheese, crispy bacon, and a bright lemon vinaigrette drizzle that elevated the dish far beyond expectations. Even Peter, who normally is not a fried green tomato fan, was impressed by the balance of smoky richness and acidity.

The Fried Shrimp appetizer was another standout. The shrimp were impressively large, lightly battered in-house, and fried just enough to preserve their natural sweetness. The homemade tartar and cocktail sauces reminded us how much fresh preparation still matters.

Susan’s Shrimp & Grits showcased classic Southern comfort executed properly. The andouille sausage was sliced on an angle and crisped perfectly, allowing the smoky spice to develop fully. The grits were creamy and soulful, exactly how your Alabama Grandmother would make them. Most impressive was the sauce, which maintained its consistency from beginning to end without separating, something many restaurants still struggle to achieve.

Peter’s Barney Burger completely stole the show. Built with a fresh hand-pattied brisket blend, the burger comes stacked with avocado, smoked bacon, American and cheddar cheese, grilled jalapeños, tomato, and smoky chipotle aioli on a locally baked Village Bread bun. The first bite starts rich and savory before the heat from the jalapeños slowly builds. The melted cheese wraps around the juicy beef while the bacon adds smoky crunch and the chipotle aioli ties everything together perfectly. It is a bold, messy, indulgent, and one of the most memorable burgers we have had anywhere in Northeast Florida.

For diners looking for generous portions, excellent cocktails, strong happy hour offerings, and a casual yet elevated Southern dining experience, South Kitchen continues to stand out as one of our Favorite Tables Around Town.

Beyond the food itself, South Kitchen thrives because of its people. Manager James brings true pitmaster passion to the kitchen, something we experienced previously while judging a local charity barbeque competition.

South Kitchen has a full bar and strong happy hour offerings. Peter especially enjoyed the Chocolate Peanut Butter Martini, which probably surprises absolutely nobody who knows him.

STAR RATING:
★★★★★ | 58/60