Enjoying food that you can feel good about — both in terms of taste and where it comes from — is easier than ever thanks to the plethora of farm-to-table restaurants developing across the United States. Rather than having to rely on the small print to get to the bottom of what’s going into your food, farm-to-table establishments simplify the process by providing you with locally sourced meals that are prepared responsibly.
With local resources that include orange groves, oceans, and everything in between, Florida is a popular destination for foodies who want to find their latest favorite farm-to-table hot spot. Whether you are a seasoned food enthusiast eager to expand your list of go-to fresh eats in Florida or are simply interested in learning about the healthiest restaurants to take your family to on your next excursion in the South, the following top restaurants are sure to please.
Orsay in Jacksonville, Florida
Image via Flickr by pingpongdeath
If you want to find both the gold standard in fine dining and a place you can indulge in a locally sourced meal, you can end your search with the Orsay in Jacksonville, Florida, near Everbank Field. This rustic French-American bistro is known for its delicious and responsibly prepared Paris-style classics and sophisticated atmosphere. Some foodie favorites include the restaurant’s Gulf Coast oysters, house-made charcuterie, and the “Take Me Home Tonight” dessert option that can be easily enjoyed later at one of the many hotels near Everbank Field that offer comfortable accommodations for travelers.
Matthew’s in Jacksonsville
Image source: Matthews website
Set within the center of San Marco, Matthew’s is a fine dining restaurant ideal for a special occasion or business dinner. Chef de Cuisine Alex Kim pairs classical-inspired French and Mediterranean dishes using high-quality farm-to-table ingredients and sustainably harvested seafood. Matthew’s has maintained a AAA Four-Diamond award since 1999 and a Wine Spectator award for 19 years.
One of the highlights of the Matthew’s experience is the Chef’s Adventure Tasting Menu, a six-course menu that unites culinary artistry and flavor with dishes that resound with seasonal ingredients. A temperature-controlled wine cellar is home to close to 2,000 bottles of wines hand selected by sommelier and chef Matthew Medure (stop by Monday to enjoy wines from the cellar at half price).
Cask & Larder in the Orlando International Airport
Image via Flickr by marada
Catching a flight out of the Orlando International Airport and looking for locally sourced food you can enjoy on the go? Don’t worry: Cask & Larder has your back.
Originally opened in Winter Park, Florida — this location is now The Ravenous Pig — this Southern-inspired restaurant has introduced “farm-to-terminal” dining for the discerning traveler. With an on-site, 220-seat dining room, two bars, and a gourmet grab-and-go market, Cask & Larder makes it easy to enjoy a locally sourced meal between flights. Cask & Larder was named one of Esquire magazine’s “Best New Restaurants” in 2014 and, in addition to its restaurant, features a brewery by well-known brewmaster Larry Foor.
Ensuring that what you eat is made of only the highest quality and most responsibly sourced ingredients is always important, even when traveling. The restaurants above will give you a meal you can feel good about and a dining experience you won’t forget.
What are your favorite farm-to-table restaurants?
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