6 More New Restaurants in Jax You Must Try

Lately it seems a new restaurant is popping up almost every week here in the River City. It's one of the perks of my job to keep up with these new additions. Currently new restaurants are opening at such a rapid rate, I can barely give them all a taste before reporting on them. I consider that a great problem to have. Here are my latest finds to add to your must try list. 

1. The Bearded Pig BBQ
San Marco

The Bearded Pig has opened in Jacksonville's historic San Marco neighborhood to much fanfare. Recently named one of Jacksonville's most family friendly restaurants, this BBQ joint features a fresh modern interior and open backyard for families to relax in. Food is served a la carte in the Texan way. Order your meat by the pound and stock up on fresh sides, Southern desserts, and local brews. 

Photo provided by Coast

2. Coast
Amelia Island

Coast is the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island's most recent update to it's award winning list of restaurants. Serving up Modern American Coastal cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Coast gives the resort guests a casual atmosphere to dine on fresh local seafood, and Southern staples. Mayport Shrimp, Chicken and Waffles, and Cherry Plank Salmon stand out on a menu full of locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the newly updated dining area, or sit outside on the Terrace and take in the beauty of Amelia Island's pristine coastline. 

Picture sourced from This Chick's Kitchen 

3. This Chick's Kitchen
Jacksonville Beach

Chef Rosaria Anderson brings her fresh concept to Jacksonville Beach in the form of This Chick's Kitchen. Modeled after the European concept of in home pop up restaurants, This Chick's Kitchen boast's an intimate setting to enjoy elevated cuisine fresh from the farm. Touted as one of Jacksonville's "Best Kept Secrets", you'll enjoy the daily made from scratch menu as Chef Anderson serves up highly technical dishes created with a whole lot of heart. 

Photo by Amy West

4. American Gator Club 
Ponte Vedra Beach
Check out my full review here

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa introduces their newest addition in the form of patio restaurant American Gator Club. Handhelds and small plates dominate the menu along with colorful cocktails that refresh the palate on a hot day. Fresh Southern inspired dishes tease the tastebuds with a selection that emphasize local ingredients. Gator Tail Tacos, reinvented Cuban Sandwiches, and hearty salads provide ample selection for all types of foodies. 

Picture by Amy West 

5. Brixx Pizza 
Brooklyn - Unity Plaza

Wood fired pizza, fresh salads, signature cocktails, and tasty small plates make Brixx Pizza a must taste destination. This family friendly restaurant is the newest restaurant to call Jacksonville's trendy Brooklyn neighborhood home. Taking up residence in Unity Plaza, Brixx Pizza is a casual destination with a creative menu. 

Picture provided by Wicked Barley

6. Wicked Barley
Baymeadows

Wicked Barley recently opened their stunning brewery in Baymeadows right on the water. Boasting a large selection of their own ales, Wicked joins a growing craft brewery scene on the River City. The menu is small yet full of variety with Garlic and Ginger Fries, Onion Rings that will have you day dreaming about them for weeks to come, and a delightful selection of Brats. Pulled pork, pizza, and burgers can also be found on the menu creating a great selection you'll want to pair a stout glass of craft brew with.  

Picture provided by Wicked Barley

Any new favorites I'm missing? I always welcome your comments and new finds! Give me a shout and your favorite may be featured next. 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West


www.amywesttravel.com 

Get the App! Take my tour with you when you visit with GPS My City
Take the Tour Here

Looking for more? Here are more new restaurants to try. 

Watch me discuss these new restaurants on The Chat



Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

5 Brand New Restaurants in Jax You Must Try Now

Jacksonville's food game continues to reach new heights. 2016 is turning into quite the banner year for the culinary scene as more and more restaurants choose to make the River City home. From celebrity chefs, to start up, I've got six brand new foodie hot spots in Jax that you must try now. 

Wood fired pizza from IL DESCO in Riverside 

1. IL DESCO 

Modern Italian Cuisine 
read my full review here

Il Desco brings some refreshing diversity to the local Italian cuisine. Serving up modern interpretations of Italian staples, IL DESCO gives the local foodie exactly what they are looking for. Dishes are created with finesse, creativity, and imagination while being executed with great skill. Wood fired pizza, fresh seafood, classic Italian ingredients, and a hip atmosphere top the list of reasons to visit IL DESCO now.

 

Location - Riverside 

Must Try -Pasta and Pizza 

Brunch- Yes

Outdoor Seating- Yes

Tip - You will drool over the Community Board which features the best polenta in a jar you will ever taste.

SeaBass from Hobnob in Unity Plaza 

2. Hobnob 

Global Inspiration with Local Intentions

Food + Social Exchange

Hobnob creates good company for Sbraga & Co in Unity Plaza. Staying true to it's name Hobnob has created a social environment where epicureans gather to mix and mingle. Dishing out an eclectic menu, sophisticated palates will be pleased with the creative selection offered. While Hobnob maintains a sophisticated and artistic setting, you'll find the heartbeat of the location is just as fun as it is fabulous. 

Location - Unity Plaza/ Brooklyn 

Must Try - The Sea bass

Drink of Choice - Coconut amaretto sour

Brunch- Yes

Outdoor Seating- yes

Tip - Enjoy your meal from the Chef's Table for a night to remember.

Filet from Bob's Steak and Chop House

3. Bob's Steak and Chop House 

Prime Steaks, Big Portions, Stiff Drinks

Situated amongst ancient live oaks and world class golf sits Bob's Steak and Chop House. New to the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort Village Shoppes, Bob's reputation proceeds him from Texas, California, Arizona, and Tennessee. This upscale restaurant with a casual vibe transforms the simple into the iconic. Known for choosing prime steaks in the top 2 % of beef and broiling them at 1800 degrees, Bob's creates each dish from scratch in house. There is a element of nostalgia and down home warmth that can be found at Bob's evident in the half sour pickles donning each table, and the fresh crusty bread you pull apart with your hands. Look for signature statements like the giant carrot on each dish, and the Texas sized everything (a calling card from the Chop House's roots in Texas). From seafood to steak you can't order wrong at Bob's Steak and Chop House. Prepare yourself for a legendary experience. 

Location - Amelia Island / Village Shoppes at Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort

Must Try - The Filet 

Brunch - No

Outdoor Seating- Yes

Tip - Try the Ice Cream from Leopold's the famous ice creamery in Savannah

Mojo Pork Sliders from SeaChasers in Jax Beach

4. SeaChasers 

Sharing our love of Beach, Food, and Fun

This two story structure right on the ocean is a welcome addition to North Jax Beach. Designed to meet the diverse culture at the beaches, SeaChasers features a first street bar, a live music venue on the first floor, an ocean front outdoor patio, and a second story ocean view dining room. Fresh local seafood fills the seasonal menu, and savory marinated pork makes an appearance as well. Enjoy the reclaimed wood accented throughout the design including river wood claimed from the St. Johns river, and restored barnwood. A soothing coastal palatte of colors melt into the wall to wall windows showcasing the most breathtaking view of Jacksonville's pristine beaches.

Location - North Jacksonville Beach

Must Try - The Mojo Pork Sliders

Brunch - Yes

Outdoor Seating  Yes

Tip - Try the Shrimp and Artichoke Dip, it's a fan favorite!

Texas sized muffins from The Ugly Cupcake Muffinry & Cafe in Jax Beach 

5. The Ugly Cupcake Muffinry & Cafe

All Muffin Eryyythingg

"Because Muffins are basically just Ugly Cupcakes"

The Ugly Cupcake Muffinry & Cafe take muffins to the next level. A family founded and run business and a historic beach house right off first street come together to create a charming combination. Open from 7am till 3pm, Ugly Cupcake will quickly become your new "go to" hang out. Using the best ingredients, and sourcing as much local and organic as possible the Muffinry features stand out creations like Muffin Sandwiches (can you say grilled cheese?), and generous salads full of color and flavor. Fresh brewed coffee, and wholesome choices make the cafe a homey place for all with lots of "feel good" vibes. Texas sized muffins in whimsical flavors change daily. Grab a buddy and a knife because these are shareable pieces of culinary art. Executive Chef Ivy puts her loving touch into each dish, and will make you feel as much like family, as her two teenage children who help run the business.

Location - South Jacksonville Beach

Must Try - The Muffin Grilled Cheese (taste the homemade pimento cheese)

Brunch - Every day is brunch

Outdoor Seating - Yes

Tip - Be like a regular and sneak upstairs to the private patio which boasts an ocean view.

These are just the start. Jacksonville is home to a hot bed of new flavors and creations. Come back regularly to discover more great new restaurants that are poised to make Jacksonville their home this year. 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo - Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Get the App! Take my tour with you when you visit with GPS My City
Take the Tour Here

Watch me discuss this topic with the ladies of The Chat

8 Do's and Don'ts for Traveling With Friends

I've been on quite a few trips with friends and let's just say it can it can be an enlightening experience that changes the course of your life and brings you even closer to your BFFs, or it could potentially crush a relationship. As a professional travel writer I personally think it's a great idea to get away with friends and seek out new adventures together. However, before you go, you might want to keep these Do's and Don'ts in mind for a more successful journey.

1. Do: Communicate Liberally

When it comes to travel with friends, you really can't over communicate. You need to discuss budget, what kind of experience you are seeking, and what your priorities are for the trip just to get started. This is especially important if you live in different places.  

Don't: Be Vague

This isn't a time to worry about feelings. You need to discuss thoroughly so you are all on the same page. I speak from personal experience as a people pleaser, if you fail to speak your mind, no one will be happy. 

2. Do: Share the planning

This is a trip you all share. If only one person does the planning you might not end up getting the experience you hoped for. 

Don't: Assume your friend who likes to plan wants to be a tour guide

They don't.

3. Do: Be committed

This means you are purpose to be your best for the entirety of the trip from planning to take off and landing. Trust is vital. If your friends can't rely on you, it's going to be a rocky trip.

Don't: Be flaky 

Bailing out at the last minute could ruin the entire trip for everyone involved. Losing your motivation mid trip turns you into extra baggage. No one wants to drag around someone who isn't into the trip.

4. Do: Choose your travel buddy wisely

Well travelled friends may struggle with a novice traveler if they aren't prepared to pace themselves and help their friend learn. Keep in mind your level of travel experience and be realistic about what kind of pace you intend to go with. 

Don't: Overestimate how much your travel buddy knows

 Make sure you are both confident in where you are going and what you are doing. A novice traveler may struggle with more insecurities on how to get around especially if there is a language barrier. 

5. Do: Bring a positive attitude and good energy

Don't take things personally or make things personal when you communicate. 

Don't: Be afraid to take time for yourself each day

Find your center and bring your best self to the trip. 

6. Do: Be adventurous

Traveling is all about embracing the unknown and discovering new things. 

Don't: Be afraid to step out of your comfort zone

It's important to know what kind of traveler you are (i.e. being an observer vs a doer) but part of the joy of traveling with friends is embracing your differences and trying things their way. 

7. Do: Be Present

You choose to come on this trip with your friend. Try to be mindful and be in the moment.

Don't: Spend all your time on the phone talking to your significant other or announcing every detail on social media. 

Take pics and load them later. Use your private time to communicate with your loved ones at home. 

8. Do: Agree on what makes you feel safe

What one person thinks is safe may be frightening to another. Being in a strange place immersed in a new culture can be invigorating for some and set others off balance. 

Don't: Downplay how your friend feels. 

Respect is critical to relationships especially when traveling. 

Do you travel often with your friends? Share your tricks and tips in the comments below!

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Watch me discuss this topic on The Chat

9 Must Taste Upscale Southern Dishes in Jax

Looking for a taste of the South? Jacksonville is rising in the ranks for it's culinary talents and it's no secret that if you are looking for original Southern dishes prepared with finesse and delivered with sophistication and distinction, then the river city should be on your radar. Here is a round up of some of the Bold City's finest dining destinations and their take on elevated Southern dining.

1. Salt

Located inside the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Smoked Shrimp and Grits

A dish to remember, this dish features Crispy Prawns with Goat Cheese, 

Shredded Phyllo, and Creamy Grits Flash Smoked for a theatrical finish that will leave you breathless. 

Bonus!!! Recipe Here

2. Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails

Chicken + Waffles

A stand out dish in Jacksonville, if a local brings you to Moxie, they inevitably will tell

 you to order this. 

Fried Chicken, Savory Waffle Pudding, Maple Mousse and Pepper Jelly

3. Black Sheep

Korean Beef Short Ribs

For a fusion of flavors try Black Sheep's tasty dish including: 

Bulgogi BBQ marinade, Logan Turnpike grits, Kimchi, Anson mills benne seeds, and soft boiled egg

The marinade is a Korean bbq style

The grits are straight out of Georgia

The Kimichi is house made with Napa Cabbage

Benne seeds from South Carolina

Soft boiled egg from Black Hog farm - East Palatka

4. Azurea

Cast Iron Seared Jumbo Blue Crab Cake

An elegant choice that makes a savory statement, I love the combination of:  

Apple Cider Braised Collard Greens Charred Heirloom Tomatoes, Crisp Smoked Bacon

5. The Candy Apple Cafe' & Cocktails

Deviled Eggs

Always a guest favorite, each order comes with the "traditional", cobb, 

and spicy hummus deviled eggs. 

6. Flying Iguana

Dirty South Taco

I want to personally thank Flying Iguana for taking everything I love about Southern comfort food and putting it in a taco. Yum! The Dirty South Taco is loaded with:

Fried Green Tomato, Black Eyed “Peaco” de Gallo,

 Pimento Cheese Sauce, and Baby Arugula

7. Jaxon Social

Red Fish Creole

Jaxon Social scores and A+ with this tasty Red Fish dish. Enjoy pan seared Blackened Red Fish, served over home made Asiago Cheese Grit Cakes, topped with Crawfish Tails and Southern Creole Cream Sauce. Devine! 

8. Gilbert's Underground Kitchen

Fried Green Tomato Sliders

I enjoyed these tasty fried green tomato sliders over brunch in Fernandina at Gilbert's Underground kitchen. The made from scratch Pimento Cheese reminded me of my childhood and added just the perfect zing and creaminess to these tiny sandwiches. 

9. Vernon's 

Taste of Sawgrass

Sawgrass Marriott signature restaurant Vernon's has recently undergone a major shift with the addition of Executive Chef Joe Natoli. Chef Joe has done his research and infused tons of local ingredients and regional flavors into the seasonal menu. A fine example of the Southern influence is the Taste of Sawgrass which features:

Buttermilk Biscuits, Pickled Local Vegetable, Pimento Cheese, 

Boiled Peanuts and House Charcuterie, Datil Peach Marmalade Spread

Seek out these fabulous dishes before they are gone. These upscale dishes are seasonal and may not be available year around, however I have faith these incredible dining destinations will find a way to please your palate regardless of season.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Get the App! Take my tour with you when you visit with GPS My City
Take the Tour Here

Watch me discuss these dishes on The Chat here.

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. 

10 Super Easy Photo Tips Anyone Can Use

For almost a decade now we've had our own photography business. From portraits, to commercial images we've learned a thing or two about how to craft a better image that will both pop on your social media feed, and be a reminder of treasured memories for years to come. Give up the selfie, you don't want to remember your timeless travels with strictly selfie shots. Here are some tips for making your pics look like the pros. 

Shooting from a higher vantage point creates an image that pops

1. Try Shooting from a Different Perspective. 

For example, it may be obvious to shoot a picture of an attraction (like a castle) from straight on. Instead try getting a higher vantage point or getting lower to the ground for a more unique angle. For shooting people, try shooting them walking away for a more mysterious image.

Try to keep your subject in one third of the image

2. The Rule of Thirds

Every pro uses the rule of thirds. It's a more aesthetically pleasing visual. Try to keep the main subject matter in one third of the image. The right or left, or the center. When you get it in the muddy space in between it doesn't stand out as much.

Capture the story of your destination by including more of the foreground

3. Incorporate images that take advantage of Foreground, Midground, and Background

Instead of just the ocean, try grabbing some of the sand, or rocks in the foreground for a more interesting shot. Mid ground would be the ocean, background could be the sunset or sunrise. Bonus* Incorporate people to add a sense of scale when shooting large structures

Adjust the horizon line above or below the center of the image

4. Change your horizon line

Instead of keeping it in the middle, try moving your horizon line to the top third or lower third of your image.

Less is more when it comes to on camera flashes

5. Use Flash Sparingly

If you are taking a photo of the inside of a large space, or of an outdoor landscape at dusk, a flash will be useless unless your focus is on a person. Skip the flash for these settings unless you are taking aim at a person and if you are, be prepared to lose the background in the process.

Take an image horizontal to include more of an epic landscape

6. Horizontal vs Portrait 

If you are taking a beautiful landscape, don't waste it on a portrait or vertical image. Move your shot horizontal that way you can take in the whole scene. 

The Ollo Clip helps eliminate the need for an extra device. Your iPhone can be everything all in one.

7. Ollo Clip

These nifty iPhone lenses will take your mobile pics to a new level

Professionally edit your images with great apps like VSCO CAM

8. Apps

Apps like VSCO cam and Camera + are great apps for editing your images to make them more appealing. Don't be afraid to experiment. A great book for utilizing these tools is iPhone only photography by David Molnar

Unless you are using your manual settings, the use of a DSLR may be unnecessary 

9. The Truth about DSLRs

Unless you are willing to learn the manual settings, you may want to consider leaving your DSLR at home. These bulky cameras can take some great photos, but if you plan on shooting in manual and program the whole time, just use your iPhone and some of the great tools mentioned in 7 and 8. 

A lightweight handheld tripod will eliminate the need for countless selfies and ensure the entire family makes it in the shot

10. Love your not so selfie

Invest in a lightweight tripod to avoid selfies and ensure everyone makes it into the shot.

What are your favorite travel photography hacks! I'd love to hear your tips and tricks in the comments below. 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Watch me discuss this topic with the ladies of The Chat

Shop the Post Here

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.