15 Best Restaurants in Tallahassee

Tallahassee, the capital city of Florida, is located in the northwestern part of the state. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and a thriving food scene, Tallahassee offers a unique blend of Southern charm, academic influence, and natural beauty.

As a culinary paradise, the vibrant food scene is sure to await and tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. Tallahassee boasts a diverse array of restaurants that cater to every palate and preference.

Whether you’re a devoted foodie searching for innovative flavors or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a delicious meal, this article will guide you through the best restaurants in Tallahassee. So make sure to read until the end.

Best Restaurants in Tallahassee

1. Best Mediterranean Cuisine – Georgio’s Fine Food And Spirits

In elegant surroundings, Georgio’s Fine Food and Spirits provide guests with a welcoming fine dining experience that features traditional delicacies from Italy, Greece, and the United States cuisines. 

The sophisticated atmosphere is wonderfully complemented by the extensive wine and drink list that is offered.

The meals are painstakingly created by Chef Grant Beane with great attention to detail, seafood and meat sourced locally, and USDA-certified Prime with an emphasis on tastes from the Mediterranean. 

In addition, the establishment features a lounge, a bar with a wide selection of drinks, and an outside dining space with a veranda that is covered.

What to Eat: 

The hallmark seafood meals include dishes such as the well-known Greek-Style Grouper, Snapper Augustine, Crab-Stuffed Groper, and Pecan-crusted Salmon, all of which are served with a side of seasonal vegetables like fried green tomatoes.

Sample one of their USDA-grade steaks, such as a Roasted Garlic Stuffed Filet Mignon, grade Rib, Rack of Lamb, or luscious Braised Lamb Shank, and pair it with your preferred wine from their extensive wine list.

2. Best American Cuisine – Backwoods Crossing

The Backwoods Crossing is a cutting-edge restaurant that specializes in offering New American specialties to its patrons. One of the best restaurants in all of Tallahassee, this establishment offers delectable fare that is artfully presented along with a comprehensive list of premium beverages, including wine, beer, and mixed drinks.

This fantastic restaurant boasts a laid-back ambiance, an outside seating area with picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, and mouthwatering cuisine that are cooked with the freshest ingredients.

In addition to that, they have dishes that change with the seasons and include local growers who give the greatest seasonal produce. This makes the restaurant unique among those found in Tallahassee.

What to Eat: 

Try out the Summertime Delight salad for a plate of crisp vegetables and delectable dressing. Spinach, red onions, honey sunflower seeds, feta cheese, arugula, and seasonal fruit are used in this dish, along with balsamic vinaigrette.

Make sure to also order the Big Foot for a one-of-a-kind main dish that’s loaded with meat. Pork loin that has been smoked low and slow and served with sweet whiskey mash and granny smith apples coated with bourbon.

3. Best Greek Cuisine – Sahara Greek Lebanese

If you have a passion for the exquisite Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine, then Sahara Cafe is your ultimate dining destination. Originally established in 2000, the restaurant has rebranded as Sahara Greek & Lebanese Cafe to reflect its focus on delivering exceptional dishes inspired by Greek and Lebanese culinary traditions.

Prepare to be tantalized by the wide array of mouthwatering specialties available at Sahara Greek & Lebanese Cafe. Their menu boasts an extensive selection that caters to every craving. From the beloved falafel, which offers a delightful combination of crispy exterior and tender interior, to a variety of wraps, pita sandwiches, and vegetarian options, the flavors will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.

Vegetarian diners will be spoiled for choice with a range of flavorful dishes that showcase the vibrant and diverse ingredients of Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine. Indulge in hearty salads, savoury stuffed grape leaves, or the comforting layers of eggplant moussaka. The menu truly caters to all tastes and preferences.

What to Eat:

Ordering the Gyro Wrap is a great way to sample a well-known and popular cuisine. Tzatziki sauce cooked from scratch, as well as thinly sliced beef and lamb, lettuce, and tomatoes, are some of the ingredients.

Your appetite for meat can be satiated with the flavorful Lamb Shish Kebab, which is a choice available to you. It is a prime-cut leg of lamb that has been hand-carved and then marinated in olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. Best Italian Restaurant – Z Bardhi’s Italian Restaurant

Z Bardhi’s Italian Restaurant is a popular dining establishment located in Tallahassee, Florida. It is one of the best restaurants in Tallahassee, FL known for its authentic Italian dishes and warm atmosphere. Z Bardhi’s offers a delightful culinary experience for locals and visitors alike.

The restaurant provides a warm and inviting ambiance, with attentive and friendly staff members who strive to create a memorable dining experience. 

Make a reservation for dinner, especially on weekends, as it is a popular spot for patrons seeking an authentic Italian dining experience. 

What to Eat:

From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas and delectable seafood specialties, Z Bardhi’s aims to satisfy diverse palates. 

One standout dish on their menu is the “Ravioli di Aragosta,” which features homemade lobster-filled ravioli served in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Best French Cuisine – Savour

Savour, found on East Park Avenue, is widely considered among the area’s most popular dining establishments. It is considered to be the best restaurant in Northwest Florida and delivers traditional American and French cuisine that incorporates flavors from throughout the world. In addition to that, it has been ranked as one of the best restaurants in the United States, making it one of the top 100.

This is a high-end restaurant with a wide beverage list and cuisine that is consistently given high honors for its quality.

The restaurant takes its name from the philosophy of relishing every moment of life, which is described as an “eclectic chic” place in Tallahassee Magazine. The Executive Chef, Brian Knepper, possesses great talent and gives each dish his complete and undivided attention, including the local and imported cheese boards and charcuterie.

What to Eat:

Enjoy a luxurious night out at a fine dining establishment, and while you’re there, don’t forget to try their Filet Mignon, Miso-Glazed Yellowfin Tuna, and Gulf Coast Bouillabaisse. 

The drinks selection is also quite costly, but the happy hour promotions make the beautiful sunsets in Tallahassee even more memorable.

6. Best Indian Cuisine – Persis Biryani Indian Grill

The renowned Persis Biryani Indian Grill first welcomed customers on March 23, 2015, when it first opened its doors. The proprietors were both born and raised in India, and it was there that they mastered the technique of preparing biryani and other traditional Indian cuisine. 

The restaurant has received many positive reviews, especially in seeing an increase in customer traffic as a direct result of the restaurant’s rich and vibrant cuisine.

The restaurant serves a wide variety of Indian cuisines in addition to other classic meals that are not commonly seen in the neighborhood. To sample this incredible cuisine, you can get it catered by placing an order online or by coming into the location at 3111 Mahan Drive, Suite 27. 

They are open from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.   

What to Eat:

The lamb biryani, a spicy dish mixed with rice and meat, is a favorite among customers. Tandoori dishes are another popular Indian cuisine, and you may find a selection of grilled or roasted meats and vegetables. 

Tandoori chicken, chicken tikka, seekh kebabs, or paneer tikka (grilled cottage cheese) are some examples of tandoori specialties you can find on the menu.

7. Best Southern-Inspired Cuisine – Table 23

When looking for the perfect restaurant to satisfy your craving for Southern dishes, you might give Table 23 some thought as a potential option for dining. 

Popular among diners, Table 23 is a restaurant that was established in the 1920s and serves food with a Southern influence.

In addition to the excellent food, the attentiveness and friendliness of the personnel will make you feel well taken care of from the moment you pull into the parking lot until you leave satisfied with your dinner. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with uncomplicated furnishings, a scenic setting, both outdoor and indoor dining places, a menu designed specifically for children, and a lively bar.

The interior seating is perfect for quiet chats, while the outside seating is perfect for a lively party or gathering. The atmosphere here is the best of both worlds.

What to Eat:

If you are for a Sunday brunch,  you should try the Southern-style fried filet. This dish consists of a country-fried beef tenderloin that is 6 ounces in size and is served with two eggs, sweet onion and potato hash, and gravy.

To sample a delectable seafood dish, place your order for the Gulf Grouper. Crab, shrimp, veggies, creamed corn flavored with bourbon and thyme, and lemon butter sauce are the components that make up this dish.

8. Best Asian-Fusion Restaurant – Masa

Prepare for an exceptional dining experience with your friends at Masa, a renowned and stylish restaurant located in the vibrant Midtown neighborhood. Widely regarded as one of the city’s hippest and most popular dining spots, Masa specializes in Asian fusion cuisine and boasts an impressive selection of sushi rolls as its main culinary attraction.

Stepping into Masa, you’ll be captivated by its contemporary ambiance, which seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with subtle Eastern influences. The restaurant’s tasteful decor, complemented by captivating accents of Eastern design, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

At Masa, the talented chefs take center stage, crafting delectable dishes that showcase the artistry and precision of Asian fusion cuisine. Their expertise and dedication ensure that each plate is a culinary masterpiece, combining flavors, textures, and ingredients from various Asian culinary traditions.

What to Eat:

To try the rice and noodle dishes that is packed with flavor, order the Pad See-ew. Tofu, chicken, pork, beef, and veggies make up the entirety of this dish.

Do you feel like sampling one of our trademark dishes? After that, place an order for the Bok Choy Tofu, which will come with a side of shiitake mushrooms.

9. Best Mexican Food – The Iron Daisy

Craving tacos, quesadillas, or chimichangas? Then make your way to the eatery known as The Iron Daisy, which is located at 507 W. Gaines Street. 

The Iron Daisy is known for its Mexican cuisine, which features a Florida-inspired twist and uses only fresh ingredients. Cast-iron cookery is one of The Iron Daisy’s most famous specialties, and the restaurant is also known for the wacky and original artistic vibes that pervade its cuisine. 

They are open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., are the hours of operation for The Iron Daisy. 

What to Eat:

Their Quesadilla is a popular choice. Choose between your choice  of cheese, beef, chicken, pork, or sauteed vegetables. This is served with rice, beans, salsa Fresca, guacamole, and sour cream.

They also serve specialty tacos from fried chicken tacos, crema verde fried chicken tacos, blackened mahi tacos, and BBQ fried chicken tacos. Make sure to order their  Chimichanga, a  fried flour tortilla stuffed with cheese and a choice of beef, chicken, or pork, served with beans and rice and topped with queso, lettuce, salsa fresco, and sour cream.

10. Best Chinese and Japanese Blends – Azu Lucy Ho’s

If you are looking for a restaurant in Tallahassee that serves some of the tastiest Asian specialties, Azu Lucy Ho’s is an excellent option to take into consideration. 

The restaurant takes its name from Lucy Ho’s Taiwanese father and Taiwanese grandfather, both of whom were born in Taiwan. Lucy Ho has been working in the restaurant industry for nearly 40 years at this point.

It is an Asian restaurant that first opened its doors at the well-known retail center known as Big Oak Plaza.

You can indulge in mouthwatering cuisine from a variety of Asian countries, excellent sushi rolls, traditional bento boxes, many alternatives for vegetarians, and a great deal more at this restaurant.

The atmosphere is soothing while maintaining an air of professionalism!  In addition to that, they provide a full bar.  The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

What to Eat:

Order the Black Mountain roll to get a taste of a traditional style of sushi. It is a  shrimp tempura wrap topped with onions, shrimp, mushrooms, and a black pepper sauce is included in this dish. 

If you have a hankering for food prepared in a Japanese way, then you should try the Pork Tonkatsu. It is a pork cutlet breaded in panko and fried and served with cabbage salad.

11. Best Steakhouse – Ted’s Montana Grill

At Ted’s Montana Grill, you may treat your family, friends, or special someone to the most delicious lunch in Tallahassee.

A number of hotels, shopping centers, and a beauty salon are located in the immediate vicinity of Ted’s Montana Grill, which is a widely acclaimed chain of steakhouses.

It has a Wild West motif, a lively bar, culinary options suitable for children and those on special diets, local craft beer, and hand-crafted drinks.

What to Eat:

If you are gluten intolerant, the Avalon burger is a good option for you. It has bacon-caramelized onions, blue cheese, gruyère cheese, baby arugula, and roasted garlic aioli on it.

For those who are interested in meat, the Bison Brisket is an excellent choice. It is a bison brisket that has been ripped apart and served with gravy, buttered carrots, and garlic mashed potatoes.

12. Best Seafood Restaurant – Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille

Harry’s Restaurant is currently recognized by its name, Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille. It first opened its doors in 1987 in Kleman Plaza.

This well-known eating establishment is one of the greatest restaurants in the downtown area since it provides customers with an aesthetically beautiful atmosphere, well-presented cuisine, and many specials during the course of the year.

The setting at Henry’s is ideal for catching up with old friends and making new connections with family. This restaurant can readily handle large parties thanks to the ample seating in the booths, yet the space does not come across as crowded or impersonal.

There is a dessert menu and complete bar that serves a variety of alcoholic concoctions, there is a cool atmosphere with stylish decorations, and the staff is helpful.

What to Eat:

The legendary Harry’s Original Gumbo is one of the seafood dishes that cannot be missed. It includes smoked sausages, crab meat, shrimp, and crawfish in its component parts.

If you want to try one of the restaurant’s hallmark dishes, you shouldn’t pass on the shell oyster bar and the Crab Crusted Redfish Royale. This dish serves smashed potatoes, crab meat, corn maque choux, and Louisiana Beurre blanc alongside blackened redfish.

13. Best Coffee House – The Bada Bean

At the Bada Bean, you and your friends can eat a delectable feast, either sweet or savory, to get your day started off on the right foot. The restaurant and coffee shop, which opened in 2007 and is known for its laid-back atmosphere, can be located close to several other establishments.

It features a plethora of delectable breakfast options, coffee that has been freshly prepared, brisk service, and ample portion sizes.

The restaurant offers food options that are appropriate for keto diets on its lunch menu. The “egg” excellent breakfasts, which include dishes like the butcher’s block and Cassidy’s country fried steak, are among the restaurant’s most well-liked offerings. In addition to that, they are well-known for their delectable desserts.

The Bada Bean is open from 7:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, from 6:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

What to Eat:

To have a hearty brunch, place an order for the BADA Breakfast. It comes with your choice of French toast prepared in the Texas way or two large buttermilk pancakes, and it’s served alongside two links of sausage, two eggs, and two strips of bacon.

Choose the BALT if you’d rather have sandwiches than anything else. On top of whole wheat bread, it features green leaf lettuce, four slices of crisp bacon, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and avocados.

14. Best Peruvian Classics – Cafe de Martin

Tallahassee, Florida, will get a taste of Peruvian culture, as well as the country’s stunning climate, delectable cuisine, and flavorful coffee, thanks to the initiatives Cafe de Martin.

Known as one of the best restaurants in Tallahassee FL, it is known for its classic Peruvian dishes like Papas en salsa Huancaina, Aji de Gallina, and Pastel de Choclo on the menu, as are traditional beverages like Aji de Gallina and Pastel de Choclo. They also provide authentic beverages made with coffee, which you will never forget. 

This restaurant is well-known in the community for its delicious sweets and the fresh sandwich bread it makes in-house. The laid-back and country-like atmosphere, hip-string lights, and vibrant details make this location the ideal setting for virtually any kind of trip.  Additionally, the service is consistently excellent, and you will have a good time each time you visit.

What to Eat:

For appetizers, start with Causa De Langostinos. This Shrimp salad, avocado, egg, and cherry tomato, is served with seasoned mashed potatoes in yellow Peruvian chilli paste. 

The start of the restaurant is their  Cevichi which is the national dish of Pere. It is made of fresh fish marinated in Leche de Tigre ( a Peruvian citrus-based marinade), red onions, cilantro, concha, and chilli pepper, accompanied by sweet potatoes.

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15. Best Pizza House – Gaines Street Pies

If you are seeking a place in Tallahassee that can satisfy your craving for pizza, Gaines Street Pie is the place to go. This restaurant was initially formed by two individuals whose primary objective was to source the highest quality and most recent foods possible making it one of the best places to eat in Tallahassee.

Their eagerness to experiment with fresh topping combinations that most people have probably never tried on pizza has contributed to their enormous success. Because the restaurant introduces new, one-of-a-kind pizzas on the first of every month, there is always something exciting to look forward to eating there.

In addition to appetizers like their bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers, this restaurant also serves salads, calzones, and other foods. Due to the enormous success of Gaines Street Pies, it has opened three additional outlets in the surrounding area. 

What to Eat:

Try their Pesto Chicken Pizza made from Basil pesto topped with fresh tomato, onions and baked chicken breast. Their Chicken Florentine Calzone is another popular dish made from sliced chicken breast, ricotta, mozzarella, and their house-made spinach and artichoke dip.

For the ultimate fun, try their Build Your Own Pizza with regular toppings like Pepperoni, Ham, Italian Sausage, Mushroom, Meatball, Tomato, Onion, Bell Pepper, Pesto, Garlic, Roasted Red Peppers, Kalamata Olive, and more. They also served lightweight salads like the Arugula Apple and Cobb Salad.

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