Where to Eat in Gainesville, FL: 5 Foodie-Recommended Hot Spots
With restaurants that boast distinct atmospheres and menus to please the pickiest palates, Gainesville, Florida’s dining scene is a foodie paradise you won’t soon forget. Gainesville native Alex Flinchum, who knows the region’s food scene like the back of his hand, dishes on where to go for any occasion. Read on for his recommendations on where to eat in Gainesville, FL.
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Brunch With Family: Afternoon
Afternoon serves familiar yet elevated brunch fare (think crispy potatoes with garlic confit and popover pancakes with orange and thyme) in a kid-friendly, casual setting. Don’t miss the seasonal pastry case. It’s a must-try when weighing the options for where to eat in Gainesville, FL.
What makes Afternoon the perfect brunch spot?
They have something for everyone. The quality of the food is really great, and the atmosphere is bright and vibrant.
What is your go-to drink and dish?
My go-to drink is always a mimosa. And I keep coming back to the egg and cheddar sandwich with pickles and aioli. The shakshuka is also incredible — definitely a close runner-up.
Date Night: Prime & Pearl
With a name inspired by the select cuts of beef and oysters offered, Prime & Pearl exudes sophisticated romance. Its flavorful steaks are dry aged for 35 days and are definitely worth the splurge.
What makes Prime & Pearl a great choice for date night?
The atmosphere really gives that romantic vibe. It’s very comfortable, and they have a fully stocked bar. If I want wine, and my wife wants an espresso martini, they can do that, and you know it’s going to be good.
What appetizer and entree do you recommend?
I like the Tuscan prosciutto. It’s a good, fresh beginning. Then for the entree, I’m a big fan of a good New York strip. Of course, when the prime rib is there, that is an absolute must.
Drinks With Friends: First Magnitude Brewing Co.
The beers at this craft brewery rotate seasonally, ranging from crisp lagers to rich porters. Stop by during one of their many events — yoga, concerts, drag bingo — for some communal fun.
Why is First Magnitude a fun place to hang out with friends?
It’s spacious. They have a wall of board games and a big-screen TV in the beer garden. They have wine, kombucha, seltzer and, of course, beer — everything from malty to hoppy.
What’s your favorite beer on tap?
Any variety of the Minnow is a favorite. It’s an imperial stout, so it’s one of those one and done. I also love their 72. It’s a pale ale, and it’s got great flavor. It’s good and hoppy but a little bit easier to sip on.
Read more about local Gainesville, FL, Breweries.
Wednesday Wine Down: Beaker & Flask
Just northwest of Gainesville in Alachua’s San Felasco Tech City, this award-winning wine bar offers tastings, daily happy hours and more than 150 labels of wine amid chic contemporary decor.
Why is Beaker & Flask a great place to relax during the week?
It’s quieter. They’ve got couches. It’s nice to sit inside, have a glass of wine and just wind down.
What is your favorite wine there?
They rotate their wines, so honestly, I try something new every time I go there. If I’m going in and want something I know I’m going to enjoy, I’ll go for something like the Lapierre Les Beaujolais. It’s a good lighter-bodied red wine.
Happy Hour With Colleagues: Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Co.
Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Co. uses only the best ingredients, including farm-fresh produce and fish flown in from Japan. And, this downtown izakaya (Japanese pub) serves a wide variety of drinks: Japanese whisky, shōchū, mocktails and even a sake sampler for the adventurous type.
Why is Dragonfly’s happy hour a must?
Their bartenders are incredible. They make great cocktails. And you can’t beat happy hour pricing.
What cocktail and dish do you suggest?
I love their Old Fashioned. You taste every element, so there’s consistency and quality. Typically, I’ll get a few things tapas-style. I’ll do an order of the pork gyoza, an order of the wontons, and I like the uramaki. I always recommend the kobachi sauce.
BONUS FINDS: In addition to these outstanding options, make sure to check out Satchel’s Pizza and Blue Highway Pizza, you can’t go wrong with either; The Top, which serves up traditional American fare and decadent drinks; and Blue Gill, where you’ll find fresh and fabulous seafood dishes.
Hungry for more? Check out our list of 8 Great Restaurants in Gainesville, FL, You Must Try.
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