No offense to chain restaurants, but between the predictable menus, generic decor, and servers who refuse to tell you the specials if you don’t ask twice, let’s just say that dining in Tallahassee isn’t always a particularly memorable experience. So we made this: A guide to 12 of our favorite local spots, from hidden gem bistros to the ‘best barbecue this side of Georgia.’
IL Lusso
$$$$ | (850) 765-8620 | WEBSITE
A sophisticated restaurant in Tallahassee, IL Lusso offers an impressive array of Italian dishes and seafood specialties. Despite its chic atmosphere, you’re still going to discover something delightful with every visit. They’ve got everything you need for an exceptional dining experience, including the popular green pesto and lamb pasta, lobster mezzaluna, rabbit cassarecce, arancini with seasonal accompaniments, crudo del giorno, and scallops with ramp chimichurri.
The tender braised lamb shank, delectable baked Alaska, and impressive lemoncello layer cake round out the diverse menu. The attentive service and knowledgeable staff provide helpful suggestions, making it a must-visit destination for celebratory dinners.
Long Bones BBQ
$ | (448) 213-8463 | WEBSITE
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Long Bones BBQ is home to more than just incredible barbecue. This little Tallahassee food truck serves up finger-licking ribs, chicken, and pork—all of which the owner smokes himself with care. In addition to those smoky meats, Long Bones also offers popular lunch deals, generous sides, and, yes, the best $12 rib plate in town.
El Jalisco Kerry Forest
$ | (850) 668-1002 | WEBSITE
You go to El Jalisco Kerry Forest for the chicken and steak fajitas, their signature dish and some of Tallahassee’s best Mexican food. But this Kerry Forest staple should also be your go-to for festive atmosphere, prompt seating, excellent service, and just about everything else you want.
Most of the action centers around El Jalisco’s two-for-one margaritas in flavors like strawberry and mango, but it’s a mistake to skip any of the other offerings, which include homemade salsa, good options for children, and a lively setting (plus there’s convenient parking and clean bathrooms, too).
The Brass Tap
$$ | (850) 320-6300 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Tallahassee, The Brass Tap is one of our favorite beer spots in town. Street parking is plentiful, its spacious patio guarantees you’ll be relaxed in under five minutes (even if your beer list is longer than War and Peace), and no matter what you’re craving, The Brass Tap is probably going to have it. From essentials like the jalapeno burger and nachos, to hard-to-find craft beers on numerous taps, this welcoming spot has you covered.
Proof Brewing Company
$$ | (850) 577-0517 | WEBSITE
In any other city, the phrase “spacious venue ideal for private events” might have felt corporate, but that’s just a testament to Proof Brewing Company’s warmth. One of Tallahassee’s most welcoming family spots, their downtown location offers an excellent variety of craft beers, creative small plates, and satisfying pub fare, such as house pimento cheese and sous vide garlic baby octopus.
The menu here always features top-quality items alongside crowd-pleasers, and their House Margarita is among the best in town. The parking can be tricky, but who minds? The staff is attentive and organized, ensuring every request is met with kindness.
Natural Kitchen ( poke bowl and bubble tea)
$ | (850) 727-4563 | WEBSITE
Unlike the typical fast-casual spot, Natural Kitchen is a two-in-one we genuinely appreciate. Half-poke bowl counter, half-bubble tea bar (and full-time fresh food destination), this popular Tallahassee eatery offers a comprehensive selection of customizable bowls with quality ingredients and pre-created options, as well as a variety of popping boba flavors and tasty teas—many of which are praised for their consistent quality and friendly service.
Conchman Conway Llc
$ | (850) 322-3725 | WEBSITE
Open for years, Tallahassee’s Conchman Conway Llc has long been one of the city’s premier Caribbean eateries, a reliable source of conch fritters, cracked conch, and French fries for the area’s seafood lovers. Their famed kitchen, run by the friendly owner and his wife, is open regularly, and there is a consistently delicious menu that remains tasty even when reheated.
Expect flavors that satisfy your hunger needs whether you’re trying their dishes for the first time or are a regular, and plates worth the price. Don’t miss out on the treats this husband-and-wife team has to offer, as it is highly recommended by satisfied customers in this local gem.
MISSION BBQ
$ | (850) 702-3513 | WEBSITE
MISSION BBQ in Tally offers a patriotic spot with excellent pulled brisket sandwiches and friendly service that any BBQ fan should know about. This Tallahassee location specializes in top-notch smoked meats, like juicy ribs, perfectly smoked brisket, and pulled pork, and also has a variety of homemade BBQ sauces for anyone looking to enhance their meal. Their side dishes are also great—be sure to get the mac and cheese and baked beans as accompaniments for whatever BBQ feast you’re enjoying.
Boru Boru – Sushi Burrito + Ramen + Bowl
$ | (850) 270-9253 | WEBSITE
Boru Boru is a restaurant in Tallahassee that offers a creative fusion of Japanese and Korean flavors. The place has a cozy and relaxed vibe, perfect for a casual meal or a study session. They serve customizable dishes like sushi burritos, ramen bowls, and rice bowls, with popular items including the Muscle Man sushi burrito and the All About Pork ramen. I particularly enjoyed the Bulgolgi bowl, which was fresh and flavorful.
The friendly staff, especially one cheerful server who gave great menu suggestions, adds to the welcoming atmosphere. They also have a nice selection of boba teas, with the Mango flavor being a standout, though the Arnold Palmer boba is quite sweet. With plenty of vegetarian options and lively music, it’s a solid spot for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Hangar 38
$ | (850) 999-2606 | WEBSITE
Hangar 38 offers a diverse range of delicious food options alongside a fun arcade, which, according to us, makes it an entertainment venue. But even if you could solely live off bowling and nachos—not recommended—Hangar 38 is more than a one-stop-shop. This Tallahassee spot is where you go to switch up your Friday night routine with arcade games, family-friendly bowling, and reasonably priced burgers and wings.
And once you’ve picked out which game to play while the kids run around, order a satisfying, quick meal at the counter. Getting a basket of crispy fries or a juicy cheeseburger in less than fifteen minutes is why we love coming here.
Culver’s
$ | (850) 727-7006 | WEBSITE
Culver’s may be a chain restaurant, but what this Tallahassee spot lacks in exclusivity, it makes up for in consistency and family-friendly appeal. The large dining area and counter are always bustling with all sorts of classic American fare—burgers, crinkle fries, and cheese curds to cod sandwiches, customizable kids meals, and dessert options—plus a drive-through stocked with quick service and friendly staff. There are also fresh fish sandwiches, hot juicy burgers, and baskets of golden fries.
Basically, if you want a reliable, convenient meal, they’ve probably got it… if not at the counter, then through their efficient drive-through window.
Thai Kitchen Cuisine
$ | (850) 999-8960 | WEBSITE
If there’s a more authentic taste of Thailand in Tallahassee than the one at Thai Kitchen Cuisine, we haven’t found it yet. Walking through their dining area is like a comforting family kitchen dream, with options like basil fried rice, pad Thai, and hot and sour soup with your choice of protein (plus all the classic dishes you’d expect at a neighborhood Thai spot).
It’s also a great place to go for family-owned charm, as they serve a solid selection of coconut soup, drunken noodles with tofu, and absolutely delightful mango sticky rice.