Tallahassee Restaurants

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.

4 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 bubble bread
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.
Spaghetti and meatballs from Tour of Italy
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.
Calzone at Riccardo's
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!
Clams at Z. Bardhi's
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 (check out Rankin Tacos) sometimes you just can’t beat the original thing. Here’s a list of 3 locally owned Mexican restaurants in Tallahassee.

Maria Maria Mexican Restaurant
Maria Maria Mexican Restaurant & Bakery: 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 burrito supreme meal
San Miguel Mexican Restaurant: 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.
Authentic Mexican street food tacos
Locos Tacos & Bar: 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.
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3 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:

Oysters at Birds
Bird’s Aphrodisiac Oyster Shack: The humor doesn’t stop with the name at Bird’s Aphrodisiac Oyster Shack! 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.
meal at Leola's Crab Shack
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 oysters
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. 

Tallahassee coffee shop - All Saints Cafe in the All Saints District near Collegetown
All Saints Cafe: offers an eclectic atmosphere to hangout, & serves barista-made coffee plus vegan & vegetarian quick bites.
Black Dog Cafe coffee shop Tallahassee
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 shops in Tallahassee
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.
Frother's Daughter mobile coffee truck in Tallahassee
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.
Tallahassee coffee shop La Florida
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 coffee shops in Tallahassee
Lucky Goat Coffee Co.: 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. 

Pizza ready for the oven at Decent Pizza in Tallahassee, FL
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!
Park's Twisted Pizza Garage, a tallahassee restaurant
Park's Twisted Pizza & Grill: is a locally owned, steampunk-inspired eatery, serving up the best New York style pizza alongside other mouth-watering dishes.
Solle's Authentic Italian Pizza
Solle's Pizza: Enjoy authentic Italian pizza where they handmake their dough every day!
Munchie's BBQ Chicken Pizza
Munchie's Pizza: is a proud Florida family-owned establishment. Their secret ingredient is FRESH ingredients!
Momo's pizza restaurant in Tallahassee
Momo's Pizza: has multiple locations around Tallahassee but no matter where you go, you'll enjoy the same HUGE high-quality pies.

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 restaurant in Tallahassee
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.
Brunch at Liberty Bar - Chicken and Waffles
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 Funfetti Pancakes
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.
Grove Market Cafe
Grove Market Cafe: 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.
Country 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.
Brick House Tallahassee restaurant
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.
Brunch at 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!
Brunch at the Egg Cafe & Eatery
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.
Brunch at Canopy Road Cafe
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!
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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: 

Enjoy their outdoor eating area at the Kool Beanz Cafe
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.
Grab a meal in their outdoor seating area at Bumpa's
Bumpa's Local 349: 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!
Enjoy Outdoor Dining at Jeri's Midtown Cafe
Jeri's Midtown 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.
owners of Mo-Betta BBQ in Tallahassee, FL
Mo Betta BBQ: which has been serving smoked spare ribs, chopped pork, beef brisket and chicken for 12 years, tantalizes customers with ‘cue so good it will “Break Yo Mouth.” That’s the slogan touted by Billy “Mo” Hollaway, who owns and operates the barbecue business with his wife, Nicole. They operate out of a food truck, so enjoy BBQ in the breeze.

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. 

Tallahassee Beer Society: is the name, and #TLHBeer is the game. Keeping you in the loop about everything our area's craft breweries are up to!
Tallahassee Beer Society: is the name, and #TLHBeer is the game. Keeping you in the loop about everything our area's craft breweries are up to!
Proof Brewing Co: was founded in 2012. They pride themselves on being an industry leader of innovative beers. Tasting room, beer garden, and production brewery.
Proof Brewing Co: was founded in 2012. They pride themselves on being an industry leader of innovative beers. Tasting room, beer garden, and production brewery.
Lake Tribe Brewing Co: is a Tallahassee-based craft brewery, brewing beers that celebrate the great outdoors through their tastes, aromas, and pairings.
Lake Tribe Brewing Co: is a Tallahassee-based craft brewery, brewing beers that celebrate the great outdoors through their tastes, aromas, and pairings.
Ology Brewing Co: 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 the Power Mill location.
Ology Brewing Co: 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 the Power Mill location.
Deep Brewing Co: Explorer, risk-taker, brewer and purveyor of fine ale and lager... Join the Deep Brewing adventure and dive into their next beer!
Deep Brewing Co: Explorer, risk-taker, brewer and purveyor of fine ale and lager... Join the Deep Brewing adventure and dive into their next beer!

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: 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.
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: 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.
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.
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 omelette - it’s a fav among humans and dogs alike.
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 omelette - it’s a fav among humans and dogs alike.

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.

appetizer at 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!
Seafood at the Edison Restaurant
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.
Dinner at Sage, a fancy restaurant in Tallahassee
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.
Waygu steak at il Lusso in Tallahassee
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.
Seafood Tower at 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.
Dinner at Little Paris Restaurant
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 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 Premiere Asian Fusion Eatery
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 dumplings
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 sushi platter
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 sushi
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: 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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