If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Tallahassee, then look no further than these locally owned restaurants.

One of the benefits of being a resident is the abundance of great restaurants in Tallahassee. Particularly locally owned and operated restaurants. Below we’ve compiled some lists of some of Tallahassee’s top restaurants. And the best part is, every single one of them is locally owned. From Italian to Mexican, brunch spots to outdoor dining, the capital city’s food scene is bursting with flavor.

In fact, Tallahassee also is host to many amazing food festivals and events that occur throughout the year including the Greek Food Festival, the Jewish Food Festival and Brewfest. For more information about Tallahassee’s festival scene, visit our festivals & events page.

Locally Owned Italian Restaurants in Tallahassee

Skip the Olive Garden, Tallahassee! For locals in the mood for authentic Italian, any of these eateries will surely hit the spot.

Bella Bella

Bella Bella bubble bread on a white plate with red dipping sauce
Photo Credit: Bella Bella

When it’s time to celebrate, locals look for Tallahassee restaurants with private rooms, and the staff at Bella Bella knows how to throw a party in theirs. Most nights, you’ll see Amy Schwartz running the front of the house, while her brother and owner, Marc, makes magic happen in the kitchen. Enjoy the funky ambiance while chowing down on some of their famous bubble bread – it’s so addictive, you’ll have to come back a second time.

Riccardo's Italian Restaurant

Calzone at Riccardo's
Photo Credit: Riccardo's Italian Restaurant

This Italian restaurant has been a midtown Tallahassee favorite for more than 20 years, and while it’s their secret bread recipe that foodies love, it’s their customer service that keeps locals coming back for more. In fact, the owner’s mother, Tina, has even been known to walk babies up and down the restaurant so parents could get a few bites in!

Tour of Italy

Photo Credit: Tour of Italy

Do not let the strip-mall exterior fool you! Local residents, particularly those living in the northwest, love the Tour of Italy. Pro tip: don’t get the same thing twice because everything is delicious. Start with the Stuffed Shells Trio (or the eggplant parmesan for vegetarians) and work your way down the menu from there. It’ll be tough, but save room for dessert because the chocolate mousse cake is to die for.​

Z. Bardhi's Italian Cuisine

Pasta dish at Z Bardhis Italian Restaurant in Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Z. Bardhi's Italian Cuisine

Tucked away off Thomasville Rd in northeast Tallahassee you’ll find an Italian stucco building with a large, shady outdoor patio that’s surrounded by a garden of fresh herbs. Stepping into the establishment is akin to strolling through the streets of Tuscany…and the food is equally as delicious. With melt-in-your mouth meatballs and a wide variety of fresh seafood (the crab stuffed grouper is a local favorite), you’ll be sure to be back to this family-owned-and-operated restaurant time and again.

The Best Mexican Restaurants in Tallahassee​

While Mexican-fusion joints are all the rage right now, sometimes you just can’t beat the original thing. Here’s a list of 3 locally owned Mexican restaurants in Tallahassee.

Loco's Tacos & Bar

Authentic Mexican street food tacos

Loco’s is a small family restaurant located in northwest Tallahassee. In 2017, after many years of experience working in restaurants, Eugenio Zenil and his partner decided to open their doors and offer authentic Mexican food, something very different from your typical Mexican restaurant in Tallahassee. The street tacos are that of a classic Mexican street taco such as Pastor, Campechanos, chorizo ​​etc. The authentic complement of Mexico handmade corn tortillas paired with the infamous red and green sauce.

Maria Maria's

Maria Maria Mexican Restaurant
Photo Credit: Maria Maria's Facebook page

Maria Maria serves homemade Mexican food in the heart of Midtown, Tallahassee. From “family recipe” dishes first enjoyed by both Marias (grandmother and mother) in Mexico to their homemade conchas (sweetbreads), they don’t compromise on either the preparation or cooking process. Whether you choose the Taco Dorado, Maria’s Tostada, or Chicken Mole, you can be assured that it is created for you using only the freshest ingredients.

San Miguel's

San Miguel burrito supreme meal

With its unique roofline and bright yellow exterior, you can’t miss San Miguel! Felipe Reynosa wanted to bring a taste of his hometown of Coahuila Mexico to Tallahassee so in 1995, he started the restaurant with his wife and 3 kids and he hasn’t looked back. The cozy “ranchero” style of the inside and the brightly colored tile tables that adorn the outdoor patio make a fun dining experience for locals and visitors alike. While there’s plenty of delicious items on the menu, the fish ceviche ranks supreme.

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Local Seafood Restaurants in Tallahassee

The Gulf of Mexico is located just 22 miles from Tallahassee, which means there’s plenty of fresh seafood available year-round. Many local restaurants serve grouper, shrimp, and oysters, but 3 of the top seafood restaurants in Tallahassee that locals love are listed below:

Bird's Aphrodisiac Oyster Shack

Oysters at Birds

This local “dive” has been serving up raw oysters, fresh grilled grouper sandwiches and lots of laughs over the years, thanks to their stand up comedy nights. The menu is filled with little quips in between the items. It’s the perfect place if you have a non-seafood eater in the group because their burgers are as delicious as they are large.

Leola's Crab Shack

Seasoned shrimp and potato meal in a black to-go container
Photo Credit: Leola's Crab Shack

For a true southern seafood experience, locals head to Leola’s. For over a decade this family owned and operated restaurant has been serving up crab legs, shrimp, fried grouper and mullet with all the sides you’d expect in the south. You can get most items fried, but they’re known for their signature garlic butter sauce – perfect for dipping crabs, corn and hushpuppies. And if you can’t make it to their brick and mortar location you’re in luck! Leola’s food truck can be found at many of the festivals and events that occur around the city.

Shell Oyster Bar

Shell Oyster Bar oysters
Photo Credit: Shell Oyster Bar

Tucked away just off of Monroe Street on the south side of town is a little gray building your eyes would miss if you weren’t looking for it. But local residents know to look because Shell Oyster Bar serves the best oysters around. Established in 1945, the establishment has served mayors, governors and well-known politicians. But no matter who you are, you’ve got pay in cash because they’re too busy focusing on cooking up amazing seafood to deal with credit card machines.

Tallahassee Coffee Shops

If caffeine is your thing, then you will love the abundance of locally owned Tallahassee coffee shops! No matter what side of town you're on, you're sure to find a cup of joe within your reach. With delicious drinks and adorable decor, it's worth trying every place to discover your favorite drink. 

Black Dog Cafe

Black Dog Cafe coffee shop Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Black Dog Cafe

Black Dog Cafe is a community coffee shop located on Lake Ella, selling wonderful single origin and blended roasted coffee’s, espresso drinks, locally made baked goods and ice creams.

Red Eye Coffee

Red Eye Coffee shops in Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Red Eye Coffee

RedEye Coffee has donated roughly over $100,000 to Tallahassee nonprofits and global organizations. Feel good about drinking coffee at any of Red Eye’s 3 locations in Tallahassee.

The Frother's Daughter

Frother's Daughter mobile coffee truck in Tallahassee
Photo Credit: The Frother's Daughter

The Frother’s Daughter is a mobile coffee trailer that rolls through the streets of Tallahassee. The trailer serves Lucky Goat Coffee and Tasty Pastry Pastries.

La Florida Coffee & Wine Bar

Tallahassee coffee shop La Florida
Photo Credit: La Florida Coffee & Wine Bar

La Florída Coffee & Wine has an urban vibe making it the perfect place to grab a cup of locally roasted coffee or a delicious bakery item.

Lucky Goat

Lucky goat coffee shops in Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Lucky Goat

Lucky Goat Coffee was founded in Tallahassee in 2010, and has now expanded to multiple locations throughout the city and the state. Enjoy one of their signature flavors like the Billy Goat or Goat Tracks.

Tallahassee Pizza

Thin crust, hand tossed, deep dish, extra crispy, extra cheesy... any way you slice it, there are PLENTY of locally owned Tallahassee restaurants serving up delicious pies. Try one or try them all. 

Decent Pizza

Pizza ready for the oven at Decent Pizza in Tallahassee, FL
Photo Credit: Decent Pizza

With its grungy Seattle vibe, it’s no wonder Decent Pizza is a favorite among the college crowd. While they sell whole pizzas, what they’re known for is their pizza by the slice – it’s HUGE!

Momo's Pizza

Momo's pizza restaurant in Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Momo's Pizza

Momo’s Pizza has multiple locations around Tallahassee but no matter where you go, you’ll enjoy the same HUGE high-quality pies.

Munchie's Pizza

Munchie's BBQ Chicken Pizza
Photo Credit: Munchie's Pizza

Munchie’s Pizza is a proud Florida family-owned establishment. Their secret ingredient is FRESH ingredients!

Solle's Pizza

Solle's Authentic Italian Pizza
Photo Credit: Solle's Pizza

Solle’s Pizza Enjoy authentic Italian pizza where they handmake their dough every day!

Brunch Restaurants in Tallahassee

If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Florida's capital city, then look no further than these locally-owned restaurants. From cozy little eateries to funky restaurants with outdoor seating, there's plenty of delicious brunch restaurants in Tallahassee.

Go casual in a traditional diner-style atmosphere, enjoy the freshness of a farm-to-table meal or enjoy an ever-changing menu from the capital city’s creative chefs. 

No matter what your breakfast fancy is, there’s one thing for sure, no matter where you go, you’ll be sure to love every bite! 

Backwoods Crossing

Backwoods Crossing restaurant in Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Backwoods Crossing

For a fresh, farm-to-table breakfast, look no further than Backwoods Crossing. Started by 2 brothers who grew up on a farm in rural northwest Florida, it’s no wonder they take such pride in their plates. They source all their fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood from local farmers. Try the Seafood Heaven platter: blackened gulf shrimp, cream cheese stuffed crab balls with Bradley’s sausage, and cheddar grits.

The Brick House

Brick House Tallahassee restaurant
Photo Credit: Brick House

Come for the brunch but stay for the booze! Head to Brick House Tallahassee for a delicious brunch and all you can drink mimosas! Located in downtown Tallahassee, with a large, covered outdoor patio, it’s the perfect central brunch spot for you and your friends.

Canopy Road Cafe

Brunch at Canopy Road Cafe
Photo Credit: Canopy Road Cafe

Delicious diner food, with some pizzazz. Canopy Road Cafe pays tribute to the old school diner brunch, while adding their own flavor and spice to classic food favorites. If you’re interested in innovative food and great service, try the Canopy Road Cafe Rocky Road Pancakes or the Crab Cake Benedict. Anything you could possibly desire or think up you will find somewhere on the creative and expansive menu. Not feeling breakfast? Take a look at their burger, sandwich or salad menu. Canopy Road Cafe offers catering options too!

County Kitchen

Country Kitchen
Photo Credit: County Kitchen

Country Kitchen is the quintessential local diner. And although it has the same name as a popular chain, once you try the food you’ll taste the difference. Enjoy hearty portions of pancakes, oversized grilled biscuits, and omelettes as big as your face. While they don’t have a website (yet!), their 600+ Google reviews from satisfied customers should be enough motivation to check them out.

Grove Market Cafe

Grove Market Cafe
Photo Credit: Grove Market

Another fresh local favorite for brunch is the Grove Market Cafe. Enjoy items like the Avocado Smash or the Greens, Eggs & Ham bowl. They are as instagrammable as they are appetizing.

Liberty Bar

Brunch at Liberty Bar - Chicken and Waffles
Photo Credit: Liberty Bar

Liberty Bar: The 7 Hills Hospitality Group has a number of restaurants throughout town, each with its own distinct style and flavors. But what makes Liberty Bar, located in the hip, midtown Tallahassee area unique is that caters to two crowds. Head there after work for happy hour or visit on the weekend for a delicious brunch. You’ll love the upscale southern classics like chicken & waffles or shrimp and grits. With food this good, expect a wait. It’s easy to manage with a freshly made mimosa in hand.

Madison Social

Madison Social Funfetti Pancakes
Photo Credit: Madison Social

Madison Social: Originally known as a popular college hangout, Madison Social’s reach has extended beyond the 21-year-old crowd and into an establishment that people of all ages enjoy. The reason is simple: the menu. Their funfetti pancakes are a fav of instagrammers and eaters alike. And speaking of Instagram, this is a restaurant you definitely want to follow on social media – as much for their food pics as their witty clap backs.

The Egg

Brunch at the Egg Cafe & Eatery
Photo Credit: The Egg

The Egg Cafe & Eatery: Open 7am-2pm Tuesday through Sunday, make brunch a regular part of your routine at the Egg Eatery & Cafe. With three full pages of brunch options, choosing a plate is the hardest part! The FarmHouse Scrambled Delight receives the most rave reviews, with scrambled eggs and smoked ham, bell peppers, melted cheese, tomatoes and scallions.

Table 23

Brunch at Table 23
Photo Credit: Table 23

Table 23: If you’re in the mood for some true southern hospitality, head over to Table 23 on Sunday for brunch under a beautiful array of canopy oak trees. With an extensive menu, there is something for everyone! Try out the “CIRI” Brunch Legend; a 4-egg omelette filled with ham, sausage, peppers, onions, cheddar, & asiago with a lime sour cream and ranchero sauce, accompanied by hash browns or a biscuit. For something truly Southern, try Mr. B’s secret recipe chicken and waffles!

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Best Tallahassee Restaurants with Outdoor Seating

One of the things that makes Tallahassee unique compared to the rest of the state is, due to its location, there are 4 distinct seasons. With a long, cool fall and a breezy spring season, residents appreciate all of the outdoor dining options available throughout the city. Here are our top 4: 

Kool Beanz Cafe

Enjoy their outdoor eating area at the Kool Beanz Cafe
Photo Credit: Kool Beanz

Kool Beanz Cafe: With more than 35 years in the restaurant industry, 20 of which have been spent running Kool Beanz, Chef Keith Baxter knows how to whip up a good meal. His interesting sauce & spice combinations has Tallahassee residents coming back for more. Kool Beanz is a popular lunch spot, and thanks to its large, cooled outdoor patio, the wait is rarely more than a few minutes. The restaurant recently opened a private dining room, which is perfect for engagement parties or business dinners.

Bumpa's Local 349

Grab a meal in their outdoor seating area at Bumpa's
Photo Credit: Bumpa's

Having opened in 2018, Bumpa’s is relatively new to the Tallahassee restaurant scene. A sports bar interior with glass garage doors that open to a spacious, covered patio, make it the perfect place to grab a bite with friends over the weekend or grab a drink after work. Upscale bar food is what locals have come to expect. There’s a number of appetizers that are perfect for sharing. Try the beer cheese pretzel or the wagyu beef sliders. Wash it down with a Funky Buddha Floridian. Yum!

Jeri's Cafe

Enjoy Outdoor Dining at Jeri's Midtown Cafe
Photo Credit: Jeri's Cafe

Jeri’s motto is “Love on a Plate” and that’s what you get when you dine here. The quaint courtyard is filled with eclectic furniture, giant umbrellas and lush, shady plants. You’ll often find Jeri herself walking among the tables, greeting guests with a smile. When you go, save room for dessert. The Nutella bread pudding is too good to pass up.

Tallahassee Breweries

If you think the Tallahassee restaurants scene is great, Tallahassee's craft beer scene is something you MUST experience! With 4 breweries, and a number of locally owned & operated tap rooms there are plenty of options to find the perfect cold beverage even on the hottest summer days. And if you really want to stay in the know on the Tallahassee breweries scene, be sure to check out the Tallahassee Beer Society on Facebook, where they post about events, festivals, the Tallahassee Brew Bus and more. 

Amicus Brewing Ventures

Amicus beer glass on a table at their taphouse, with another beer glass in the background

Amicus Brewing Ventures nurtures a deep appreciation for that sublime feeling of sitting around a table drinking great beers, in a welcoming space, with friends engaged in lively conversation. Invigorated, the brewery finally committed to offer its version of this experience to the Tallahassee community and all of the wonderful people that cross its path. Visitors will love enjoying a cold one in the Old City Waterworks building near Cascades Park! 

Deep Brewing Company

Man's hand holding a glass of beer with the Deep Brewing Co logo, with Lucky Goat coffee packages in the background
Photo Credit: Deep Brewing Company Facebook

Explorer, risk-taker, brewer and purveyor of fine ale and lager— join the DEEP brewing adventure and dive into their next delicious beer! 

Lake Tribe Brewing Company

Glass of beer with Lake Tribe logo, next to a bottle of their Chopped beer in a can, with green trees in the background
Photo Credit: Lake Tribe Facebook

Lake Tribe Brewing is a Tallahassee-based craft brewery, brewing beers that celebrate the great outdoors through their tastes, aromas, and pairings. 

 

Ology Brewing

Ology is a brewery in Tallahassee, Florida. They are taproom-focused and keep a variety of different beers on tap. Visit them at their Midtown or Power Mill location. 

Proof Brewing Company

Photo Credit: Proof Brewing Company Facebook

Founded in 2012, Proof Brewing Company prides itself on being an industry leader of innovative beers. Their operation includes a tasing room, beer garden and production brewing. 

 

Fancy Restaurants in Tallahassee

If you're looking to celebrate a special occasion, or just spice up date night, be sure to check out some of these fancy restaurants in Tallahassee that are sure to impress the palate.

Savour

appetizer at Savour
Photo Credit: Savour

Savour offers a chic and eclectic dining experience in downtown Tallahassee. The exposed brick walls, paired with soft lighting, creates a cozy dining experience for all. Foodies will enjoy high-end Southern food with a twist. Items like the Gulf Coast Bouillabaisse, which includes blackened grouper, shrimp, and Apalachee Bay clams in a rich tomato saffron broth, will fill you up and leave you to plan your next visit!

The Edison

Seafood at the Edison Restaurant
Photo Credit: The Edison

The Edison Restaurant is located in the heart of Tallahassee’s capital city at the 100-year-old historic Tallahassee electric building. With a large interior space featuring oversized windows and a covered deck, visitors will enjoy dining against the picturesque backdrop of Cascades Park. The New American-style menu will have you coming back for more.

Sage

Dinner at Sage
Photo Credit: Sage

Sage Restaurant: offers a range of made-from-scratch foods that are sure to tantalize the taste buds. This French-inspired, Tallahassee restaurant is popular for date night & special occasions. Foodies will love familiar items like soupe a l’oignon (French onion soup) as well as more non-traditional items like the sticky glazed pork short ribs.

Il Lusso

Waygu steak at il Lusso in Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Il Lusso

Il Lusso is located in the heart of downtown Tallahassee, which makes it a popular location for government officials, lobbyists and more during the legislative session. But prime location isn’t all they’re serving up! Il Lusso’s hand crafted cocktails, prime beef and delicious pasta dishes make this the perfect spot for a fancy Tallahassee date night.

Blu Halo

Seafood Tower at Blu Halo
Photo Credit: Blu Halo

Blu Halo is a popular dining establishment located in NE Tallahassee in Bannerman Crossing. Their delicious, farm-to-table appetizers and entrees, along with a full wine & martini bar, create the perfect culinary experience. On Thursday evenings and most weekends, restaurant-goers also enjoy live music, which creates the perfect backdrop for a fabulous meal.

Little Paris

Dinner at Little Paris Restaurant
Photo Credit: Little Paris

At Little Paris, Chef Herve and Loic Alcesilas bring a taste of France to Tallahassee! Their seasonal menu changes but the quality is always top-notch. Enjoy delicacies like buttery escargot, pan-fried foie gras, and beef tartare, or play it safe with a more traditional beef burgundy or airline chicken. Whatever you choose, your taste buds will thank you.

Tallahassee's Dog Friendly Restaurants

With more than 600 miles of trails and 88 city parks, it’s no wonder that locals love to bring their furry friends along on their daily activities. Of course, this includes everyone’s favorite activity - eating! Tallahassee has many options when it comes to dog-friendly dining. Check out a few of the local favorites below.

Canopy Road Cafe

Photo Credit: Canopy Road Cafe Facebook

Canopy Road Cafe is the only chain you’ll find on this page. The reason it’s included is because their flagship restaurant was right here in Tallahassee. Canopy has 3 locations around town for locals and they’ve also expanded into Tampa and Jacksonville as well. They pride themselves on their delicious, diner-style breakfasts – you will NOT leave here hungry. Canopy Road is also pet friendly, so if the pancake stack is larger than you expected, you can toss one over to your furry friend.

Wells Brothers Midtown Caboose

Photo Credit: Midtown Caboose Facebook

Wells Brothers Midtown Caboose: dreamt up by brothers Matthew and Adam Wells became a reality in 2014 and a staple in Midtown Tallahassee. While known for their unique mix-up of ingredients (ever heard of a PB&J burger?) the other thing that locals love is the giant dog friendly deck. It’s covered, so you and Fido will stay cool during the hot summer months.

Updtown Cafe & Catering

Photo Credit: Uptown Cafe & Catering Facebook

Uptown Cafe & Catering: run by Fred and Beth Tedio since 1983, where they serve healthy, homemade meals to a diverse clientele base. Being located next to the hospital, plenty of folks from the medical field pop in regularly. It’s also a favorite for the midtown, hipster crowd thanks in part to its large, dog-friendly patio. When you go, you must try the apricot-glazed smoked salmon omelet – it’s a fav among humans and dogs alike.

Tallahassee Asian Restaurants

Try some of the best Asian food that the Capitol has to offer! With the most authentic, cultural food the southern city of Tallahassee fuses history with food.

Masa

Masa Premiere Asian Fusion Eatery
Photo Credit: Masa

Masa: Located in the heart of Midtown, this Asian Fusion restaurant is a gem founded by Lucy Ho. Masa is a seafood and sushi restaurant that is crafted to blend true, authentic Asian cuisine with slight Americanized elements. Only the best presentations and atmosphere you will find here. Known for their creative blend of unique flavors that are specific to Masa in their fusion of Eastern and Western delicacies so there is something for everyone!

J's Asian Street Food

J’s Asian Street Food dumplings
Photo Credit: J's Asian Street Food Facebook

J’s Asian Street Food: If you’re looking for true customary Asian food, then this is the place for you. Traditional Asian street food is unbeatable at J’s, the atmosphere in combination with the incredible menu. J’s Asian Street Food is known to have some of the top food in Tallahassee.

Sakura Sushi & Grill

Sakura Sushi & Grill sushi platter
Photo Credit: Sakura Sushi & Grill Facebook

Sakura Sushi & Grill: If Japanese cuisine is your vice, Sakura Sushi & Grill is the place to satisfy your taste buds. With a plethora of choices from the freshest of sushi to the tastiest of hibachi there is no wrong choice. Serving Tallahassee since 2008, Sakura Sushi & Grill is found in the center of Midtown by Lake Ella.

Osaka Japanese Steak House

Osaka Japanese Steak House sushi
Photo Credit: Osaka Japanese Steak House Facebook

Osaka Japanese Steak House: For over 20 years, the Osaka Japanese Steak House has been providing the finest sushi and hibachi to the city of Tallahassee. Their sushi is delivered fresh every day from the Gulf of Mexico in Destin and hand-rolled for the freshest of seafood. Using only the highest quality of meat and fresh, locally grown vegetables, Osaka Japanese Steak House crafts prime cuisine.

Reangthai Thai Restaurant

Reangthai Thai Restaurant
Photo Credit: Reangthai Thai Restaurant

Reangthai Thai Restaurant: Providing Tallahassee with true Thai cuisine for over 15 years, Reangthai Restaurant is known for their genuine dishes. Their seasoned chef only uses the best, freshest ingredients without any preservatives or additives to diminish the taste. Don’t miss out on the curry delight and cilantro red snapper!

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