20 Best Restaurants in Daytona Beach, FL
This article was written by local contributor Abigail Berry & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As someone who's lived in Daytona Beach for as long as I can remember, I can truly say there's something special about the local food scene.
The warm ocean breeze, the sound of crashing waves, and the smell of fresh, mouthwatering seafood all combine to create an unforgettable dining experience.
But it's not just the coastal cuisine that makes Daytona Beach's restaurants so special, it's also the variety and the passion behind each dish being served.
I've had the pleasure of dining in countless local restaurants, from casual beachside eateries to upscale, fine dining establishments, and I'm excited to share my absolute favorites with you.
So, let's dive in and explore the best restaurants in Daytona Beach, Florida, that you won't want to miss!
The Red Bud Cafe
One of my favorite places to start the day here in Daytona Beach is The Red Bud Cafe.
What sets this cafe apart is its unique, international menu featuring mouthwatering dishes like Argentinian crepes, Thai crepes, and the Australian Larmint.
I recently tried the avocado toast, and it was nothing short of perfection.
Their coffee is also top-notch, and I love to pair it with an Italian Affogato for a sweet treat.
This little gem of a cafe has a beautiful energy that makes every visit feel special.
It's a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
Miyabi Sushi
Miyabi Sushi has become my go-to spot for Japanese cuisine.
It's not just about the sushi, which is undoubtedly fresh and amazing, but also about the whole dining experience.
The first time I went to Miyabi, I was with a group of friends after a long day at the beach.
The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a good meal.
Every time I ordered the same dish, it would come out looking and tasting slightly different, showcasing their dedication to culinary artistry.
The teriyaki chicken and tempura chicken are some of my favorites, but their sushi is definitely the star of the show.
Another thing I appreciate about Miyabi is the attention they give to the little details.
For instance, their homemade ginger dressing is unlike any other I've tasted – it's the real deal and not some knockoff version.
The restaurant's location in Bel Air Plaza is also convenient, making it a great choice for a date night or a casual dinner with friends.
Cafe con Leche
Just the other day, I paid a visit to Cafe con Leche, and let me tell you, it was an exquisite experience!
I decided to go for the five tacos for $10 deal, and I chose the shredded beef on corn tortillas, which turned out to be absolutely delightful.
The house-made hot sauce, fresh onion, cilantro, and lime for squeezing added the perfect touch to the flavorful tacos.
I couldn't resist trying their Chicharron plate as well.
It came with rice, beans, and plantains, and although I prefer my chicharrons to be a bit crispier and larger in size, the plate was still very delicious.
I've heard from friends that their Cuban sandwiches are the best in town, and I’m eager to try one on my next visit.
The atmosphere at this tiny gem located at the end of a strip mall is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot to enjoy some authentic Latin cuisine.
Henry's Pizza
Last weekend, my friends and I decided to give Henry's Pizza a try, and oh boy, we were in for a treat!
From the moment we stepped in, we could tell that this was going to be a fantastic experience.
The place had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends.
We started off with some of their famous empanadas, and they were indeed as delicious as we had heard.
The crust was just the perfect balance of crunchy and soft, and the filling was bursting with flavor.
After that, we moved on to the star of the show: the pizzas.
We ordered a Fugazza and a buffalo pizza, and both were outstanding.
The thin crust was right up my alley, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful.
The icing on the cake was the live music on the patio.
It created a fun and lively atmosphere that just made our night even more enjoyable.
Bethune Grill
One of my all-time favorite places to grab a bite in Daytona Beach is Bethune Grill.
Their chicken wings are absolutely top-notch, and I can't even begin to describe how amazing their special sauce is.
I've tried countless wings from different places, but nothing comes close to what Bethune Grill offers.
The atmosphere inside the restaurant is cozy and nostalgic, making it an ideal place to catch up with friends and chat over a plate of wings and fries.
I often find myself craving their delicious wings combo and those mouthwatering cookies, and I always leave satisfied.
Ponchos Tacos & Mexican Ice Cream
The other day, I decided to finally give Ponchos Tacos & Mexican Ice Cream a try after hearing about it from my friends.
I went in with high expectations, and I was not disappointed.
I ordered shrimp and fish tacos, trying both the simple and the "American" versions, which came loaded with cream and cheese.
Both options were absolutely delicious!
The guacamole was excellent as well.
My friend who accompanied me had a generous plate of shrimp and all sorts of other goodies, and he was very happy with his choice too.
Hi Pot Daytona
My friends and I decided to try out Hi Pot Daytona, a new Asian restaurant that recently opened up in the area.
Upon entering, we immediately noticed the simple and clean ambiance, although not yet fully decorated.
While browsing their menu, we were delighted to find that not only were the food photos visually appealing, but the actual dishes served to us were just as impressive, if not better!
The flavors were on point, and the freshness of the ingredients was evident in every bite.
The generous portion sizes also ensured that we went home satisfied and with leftovers to enjoy later.
Chez Paul Gourmet Restaurant
One of my favorite spots for a fine dining experience in Daytona Beach is Chez Paul Gourmet Restaurant.
This intimate and elegant restaurant offers refined Italian and French fare, and the garden patio with waterfront views adds a touch of serenity to the ambiance.
I remember celebrating my anniversary here last year, and it was truly an unforgettable night.
The food was divine - from the appetizers to the fresh table-made Caesar salad to the entrees and dessert.
The other diners were right when they said that no matter what you choose, it's going to be amazing!
Fancy Q Japanese and Thai Restaurant
As someone who lives in the area, I've had the pleasure of dining at Fancy Q Japanese and Thai Restaurant on multiple occasions, and I have to say, it's always been a fantastic experience.
The contemporary-casual atmosphere is perfect for both a relaxing meal with friends or a nice date night.
Their menu offers a wide variety of Japanese and Thai dishes, so there's always something new to try.
One of the things that stand out about Fancy Q is their exceptional customer service.
On my last visit, I ordered the Philadelphia roll and the crunchy roll, which were both absolutely amazing.
The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were perfectly balanced.
I also had the shrimp fried rice, which was deliciously flavorful and satisfying.
What's more, they often surprise their loyal patrons with complimentary dishes, such as soup or appetizers.
On one occasion, I was treated to a Soft Shell Crab appetizer, which was absolutely divine – lightly battered, packed with huge pieces of crab, and served with a delightful sauce.
The gyoza is another must-try dish, as it's always perfectly cooked, tender, and packed with flavor.
The Cellar Restaurant
I recently had the pleasure of dining at The Cellar Restaurant.
It's an Italian gem located in a historic building that once served as President Warren G. Harding's home.
The homemade pasta here truly lived up to its reputation, and my personal favorite was the crab pesto pasta.
The dessert course was an unexpected delight as the pastry chef personally served us their exquisite creations.
Our dining experience was topped off with a glass of excellent port.
BurgerTen and ChickenToo
Recently, I decided to give BurgerTen and ChickenToo a try after reading so many positive reviews online and having a satisfactory experience when they were a part of Dahlias on DoorDash.
I ordered the cheeseburger egg rolls, and they were indeed tasty and cheesy, served hot.
The hash brown was my favorite part of the burger.
Meanwhile, my guest enjoyed the parm wings.
My son loved his burger, and the chicken sandwich I got was amazing.
Bay Street Dawgs
Daytona Beach has this fantastic little hot dog joint I discovered recently - Bay Street Dawgs!
As a big fan of hot dogs and steamed burgers, I was thrilled to find this hidden gem in town.
I remember being a bit skeptical about trying a steamed burger for the first time, but my skepticism vanished after the first bite!
It was not only delicious but also made fresh right in front of me.
As for their hot dogs, they are simply amazing!
I've tried the one with pineapple mango salsa, and it was a delightful explosion of flavors.
Their onion petals are thick and tasty, and the coleslaw, though not mayonnaise-based, was pretty good too.
One thing I absolutely love about Bay Street Dawgs is their outdoor seating area.
It's such a nice spot to enjoy a meal, especially on a sunny day.
The service is always fast and efficient, making it an ideal place for a quick yet satisfying lunch.
The atmosphere is laid-back, and the prices are very affordable, which only adds to the overall experience.
Fat Boi Gourmet Potato Restaurant
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Fat Boi Gourmet Potato Restaurant with my family, and it exceeded our expectations.
The ambiance was clean, efficient, and comfortable, and the service was exceptional, especially from Rasta, who greeted us with a warm smile.
As a potato lover, I had been wanting to try their food trucks for some time now, so when I found out they had opened a restaurant, I couldn't wait to give it a try.
For lunch, I ordered the Shrimp potato with broccoli and mushrooms, and it was absolutely delicious.
We also tried the sweet potato bites, which were surprisingly tasty, even though I'm not usually a fan of sweet potatoes.
My daughter loved her steak potato, and my granddaughter enjoyed her kid's grilled cheese and fries.
One thing not to be missed is their famous Fat Boi sauce, which truly enhances the flavor of their dishes.
We even ate the potato skin with it, and it was moist and soft.
The prices were also very reasonable, making it an overall fantastic dining experience.
Brickyard Lounge and Grill
One of my favorite spots in town to grab a bite and unwind is the Brickyard Lounge and Grill.
As an auto enthusiast, I can't help but get drawn to the car-themed setting and racing memorabilia that adorn the walls.
I've been coming here for years, and I can confidently say that their gigantic, juicy burgers are some of the best in town.
Whether you want them well-done or medium-rare, they always seem to get it just right.
My personal favorite is the hot wings, which come in a house-made sauce that strikes the perfect balance between heat and flavor.
If you're a sandwich fan, you won't be disappointed either – they're always jam-packed with meat, making for a hearty meal.
The atmosphere at the Brickyard is always warm and inviting, with fellow patrons often engaging in friendly banter about the latest auto races or sports events.
Fraze's Scratch Cookin'
I can confidently say that Fraze's Scratch Cookin' has quickly become one of my favorite spots for great food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Their Facebook page gives you a glimpse of what to expect, but trust me when I say that you need to experience it for yourself.
Let me start by talking about their incredible Cuban sandwich - it's hands down the best I have ever had!
They even offer a unique twist on it by adding two fried eggs.
My kids are always happy with their burger and grilled cheese options, and we all enjoy the fresh-cut fries, coleslaw, and baked beans that come as sides.
Visiting Fraze's Scratch Cookin' on a day they have their daily specials is a must.
I've tried the Tuesday pork tenderloin, and it's enormous - way bigger than the bun it's served on!
The crispy Cuban sandwich is another delectable option I highly recommend.
Their chili deserves a special mention, as it's so thick and flavorful that you could eat it with a fork!
And don't even get me started on their gourmet soda fountain.
With choices like black cherry, orange cream, and root beer, you'll be transported back to a nostalgic time with every sip.
Fresh Box Seafood
One thing I always look forward to in Daytona is indulging in scrumptious seafood, and Fresh Box Seafood never disappoints.
Each time I visit, I can't resist ordering the deluxe crab boil.
Not only is it a massive portion size that can easily satisfy a group of friends or family, but it's also surprisingly affordable.
The family-style steam trays feature an impressive variety of seafood offerings, all of which are cooked to perfection in a casual, laid-back atmosphere.
It's the ideal spot to unwind after a long day at the beach or exploring the city.
My personal favorites are the crabs, shrimp, and mouthwatering potatoes, corn, eggs, and sausage that come with the seafood boil.
I'm always amazed by how much food they pack into each serving for just $200, making it an exceptional value.
Kale Cafe Juice Bar & Vegan Cuisine
I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical at first about trying a vegan restaurant, but after my experience at Kale Cafe Juice Bar & Vegan Cuisine, I can say it's a game-changer.
The food was absolutely delicious, and the smoothie - oh, the smoothie was divine!
I never knew cabbage could have so much flavor until I tasted their dishes.
My partner and I decided to visit Kale Cafe after hearing great things about it from friends.
He ordered the breakfast sandwich, which he thoroughly enjoyed, while I opted for a couple of side dishes.
The prices may be on the higher side, but it's worth it for the quality of food and the healthy options available.
Plus, the excellent customer service made up for it.
The cafe itself has a lovely ambiance, perfect for grabbing a meal or a healthy juice.
As a vegan-friendly spot, it's a real gem in the neighborhood.
Corleone's
As someone who's lived in this area for years, I can confidently say that Corleone's Famous New York Pizza & Gyros is one of the best spots to grab a slice of delicious pizza or a flavorful gyro.
It may look like a small hole in the wall from the outside, but don't let that fool you.
This family-owned gem is just a stone's throw away from the ocean, and sitting outside to enjoy your meal comes with the complimentary sights and sounds of the waves crashing on the shore.
You can check them out on their website here.
The folks at Corleone's are always friendly, and the service is excellent, even when they're swamped with customers.
I've tried several items from their menu, and one of my personal favorites is the pizza.
I love it well done, and the chefs at Corleone's never fail to cook it to perfection.
The garlic knots are also to die for, and I can never resist ordering a plateful of them.
One of the things I appreciate the most is the reasonable prices and generous portions.
Siam Spice Thai Restaurant
I recently visited Siam Spice Thai Restaurant with some friends, and it's one of my favorite spots in Daytona.
As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the serene decor with big windows really added to the ambiance.
We tried a variety of dishes, including Pad Thai, Pineapple Fried Rice, and Crispy Duck.
They also had some unique items like Soft Shell Curry, which intrigued us.
What I really appreciated was that they asked us how spicy we wanted our dishes, allowing us to customize the heat level according to our preferences.
My personal favorite was the Pineapple Fried Rice - simply delicious!
On another visit, I ordered Drunken Noodles with Chicken, Spring Rolls, and Tom Yum Goong Soup, which were all outstanding.
The shrimp in the soup was fresh, the spring rolls were crispy, and the noodles were cooked to perfection with well-balanced flavors.
The service at Siam Spice was quick and courteous, adding to the overall positive experience.
Macker Seafood
I recently dined at Macker Seafood, and I couldn't be happier with my experience.
I've always been on the hunt for fresh, delicious seafood, and Macker Seafood exceeded my expectations.
The relaxed and chill atmosphere was the perfect setting to enjoy the incredible seafood dishes they serve.
I ended up trying the crab, shrimp, and scallops, and every bite was divine!
The taste of freshly caught, well-cooked seafood was evident in each dish.
In addition, the sides were absolutely delicious; the soft, buttery potatoes, perfectly cooked corn, and mouthwatering sausage were all delightful addition to the meal.
The best part about dining at Macker Seafood was the affordability of the menu.
I left feeling full and satisfied without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Daytona Beach truly offers a diverse and delicious range of dining options to satisfy any palate.
From my personal favorite, the Red Bud Cafe, to the authentic flavors of Miyabi Sushi and Siam Spice Thai Restaurant, there's something for everyone here.
So go ahead, give these incredible restaurants a try, and see for yourself why I'm so passionate about the Daytona Beach food scene.
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