Jax Beach Eats: Gilbert’s on 1st Street

May 25, 2018

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Posted by in News

Whether you’re heading out for a casual time at the beach or an evening of fine dining, Gilbert’s is the place to go. That’s because the beachfront establishment features two distinctive dining experiences.

Patrons seeking comforting and casual Southern cuisine may want to head to Gilbert’s Hot Chicken, Fish & Shrimp (downstairs), and guests looking for a more upscale, oceanfront vibe with BBQ-inspired Southern fare may choose Gilbert’s Southern Kitchen (upstairs).

While both eateries offer the finest in beachfront dining, we chose to dine downstairs for a more casual experience. The lower level also includes Seachasers Lounge, which boasts live music and a lengthy cocktail menu.

Aesthetically, Gilbert’s Hot Chicken, Fish & Shrimp offers a quintessential Jax Beach experience, overlooking 1st Street for optimal people watching and a nice, breezy atmosphere that’s great for friends and family. The focus, however, is on the incredible food!

I dined with the great folks at Davidson Realty, who ordered a variety of items from the menu of fresh seafood, Southern sides and comfort food. Our party enjoyed dishes like the Catfish Fillet, Local Wild Shrimp and detectible sides like Hand Cut Fries, Anna’s Mac & Cheese and House Dill Pickles.

A stand-out dish was the signature KG’s BLT Biscuits, which includes two signature sandwiches with smoked, fried boneless chicken thighs, pickled green tomatoes, remoulade, pork belly, butter lettuce, all on fresh jalapeño cheddar drop biscuits. Amazing!

From mason jar drinks and the aroma of fried chicken to tacos and beachy cocktails, Gilbert’s captures coastal Southern in a fun and refreshing way. Beyond that, the food tastes like a down-to-earth version of fine gourmet. It’s no wonder the owner, Kenny Gilbert, is a former Ritz-Carlton chef and Top Chef contestant.

Make Gilbert’s a must-try restaurant this summer! Gilbert’s is located at 831 1st Street in Jacksonville Beach. Visit them online at gilbertshotchicken.com and gilbertssouthern.com.

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