Florida is an ideal destination for a wonderful vacation and to delight the palate with exquisite food! This city is known for its white sand beaches, theme parks and warm weather, but it is also home to a diverse and exciting food scene that deserves to be explored.
From Cuban cuisine in Miami to fresh seafood in Key West and Southern cuisine in the north of the state, Florida has so much to offer, and what better way to discover Florida’s culinary treasures than on an exciting food tour?
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the Sunshine State’s delicious culinary scene and show you how you can enjoy an exciting Florida food tour without leaving any dish untasted.
Miami: A gastronomic adventure in Little Havana
We begin our Florida food tour in Miami, a place where the Cuban influence is strong and that is reflected in its vibrant culinary scene. In Little Havana, you can enjoy authentic Cuban dishes in emblematic places such as “Versailles Restaurant” and “La Carreta”.
We recommend that you don’t miss the opportunity to try the traditional Cuban coffee and guava cakes, delicacies that will immerse you in the rich culture of the area immediately.
Key West: Fresh seafood and ocean views
We continue our journey south to Key West, where fresh seafood is the dish of the day. If you are a lover of fresh fish dishes, you must try places like “Half Shell Raw Bar” and “Conch Republic Seafood Company”, where you can enjoy all kinds of seafood delicacies, such as lobster and fried conch while enjoying the breathtaking ocean views.
Don’t forget to try the famous key lime pie, a refreshing and delicious dessert, an icon of Key West cuisine.
Orlando: Beyond the theme parks
Our next destination is Orlando, where the food scene goes far beyond the theme parks. In the heart of the city, you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering everything from local cuisine to international experiences. A food tour of Orlando will take you to places like “The Ravenous Pig” in Winter Park, known for its focus on fresh ingredients and creative dishes inspired by southern American cuisine.
Tampa: The capital of seafood and Cuban cuisine
We continue our tour of Tampa, where Cuban cuisine and fresh seafood are the protagonists. In the Ybor City neighborhood, you can enjoy authentic Cuban dishes at places like “Columbia Restaurant”, Florida’s oldest restaurant, which has been serving Cuban delicacies since 1905. You can also explore the city’s bustling seafood scene at places like “Ulele”, which offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes inspired by Florida cuisine.
Jacksonville: Culinary treasures in North Florida
Now we head to North Florida, where we find the charming city of Jacksonville. Here, you can discover a variety of culinary treasures, from seafood restaurants to street food stands.
In the Riverside area, you’ll find a variety of options, including the “Black Sheep Restaurant”, known for its focus on local ingredients and innovative Southern cuisine. Also, don’t miss the local farmers’ markets, where you can find fresh, artisanal produce directly from local producers.
Tallahassee: Southern cuisine and culinary tradition
Tallahassee is the capital of Florida, and here you can enjoy authentic southern cuisine and explore the rich culinary tradition of the region. We recommend going to the “Kool Beanz Café”, where they offer a unique dining experience with creative dishes that highlight local flavors.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to sample fresh seafood and southern specialties at places like “Shell Oyster Bar”, where you can enjoy fried shrimp and fresh oysters in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
St. Augustine: History and gastronomy
We continue our tour of Florida until we reach St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. Here, you can enjoy a unique combination of history and gastronomy.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try Spanish cuisine in places like “Columbia Restaurant”, located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. In addition, you can explore the local markets and sample artisanal products such as cheeses, wines and handmade sweets.
Sarasota: Gulf Coast culinary experiences
On Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast lies the charming city of Sarasota, which offers a variety of culinary experiences for every taste. Here you can find fresh seafood or the best of international cuisine, among many other options.
Sarasota has something for every palate. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a seaside dinner at places like “The Sandbar Restaurant”, where you can savor delicious seafood while taking in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Gainesville: Innovative cuisine and university atmosphere
As the final destination of our tour, we arrive in Gainesville, home to the University of Florida and a constantly evolving gastronomic scene. Here, you’ll find a mix of casual restaurants, cozy cafes, and lively bars.
Don’t miss the chance to try innovative cuisine at places like “The Top”, known for its creative dishes and relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, you can explore local farmers’ markets and enjoy fresh, organic produce straight from the area’s producers.
Final Thoughts
A food tour of Florida is a unique experience that will lead you to discover both the culinary treasures that this beautiful state holds and its wonderful culture and traditions. It’s a territory that embraces diversity, evident in its cuisine, which encompasses different types of cooking, such as Cuban, Southern in the northern part of the state, and seafood, among many others.
Florida offers a variety of flavors and gastronomic experiences for every taste. There is so much to taste and explore when visiting the Sunshine State, that it’s best to make sure to book a food tour to embark on a culinary adventure you’ll never forget.
