41 Best American Restaurants in Gainesville

“Excellent service!!! Everyone is so nice and polite from greeting you the second you walk in to the waiters. We went for weekend brunch and it is worth every penny. It's a buffet style but the food quality that's served is top notch. Our favorite were the grits and shrimp and the beef wyagu sliders. They also have this omelette station that my stomach could not fit but I would've loved an omelet. I want to try to make this a monthly thing with friends. Try going the second it opens because it got busy super fast.“

“I had the chicken and waffles for my birthday and it was awesome. I also like the chicken Benedict. There hasn’t been too many things that I have disliked there. Sometimes it’s a hit or miss depending on what time you get there who is cooking however, their food is usually really good and their staff is normally very attentive and kind. I enjoy sitting outside because I am disabled and have a service animal who happens to be 100 pound pitbull. They are very accommodating.“

“I absolutely love this food truck and have been so many times in my years at UF! They're food is always delicious, and can be enjoyed even by the most adamant meat-eaters! Their brunch options are my favorite, but all of their food is delicious. It's a bit pricey, but understandable considering the vegan ingredients they are using. Parking is never an issue, the atmosphere outside the truck is really nice and cute, and the service is usually pretty quick! I definitely recommend trying it out, vegan or not!“

“I've been a regular at this restaurant for a while now, and it never disappoints. The service is impeccable, the staff are friendly, and the food is undeniably delicious. The only slight drawback is the extensive range of flavors, which can make it challenging to create a perfectly balanced bowl. However, the freshness and hotness of the food always make up for it. I keep coming back for more, especially for their amazing sweet potato noodles. Highly recommend giving it a try!“

“this was so good and exactly what ive been looking for while trying to be healthy. it was quick, convenient and tasted amazing. simple process on ordering as well with so many interchangeable options to create different tastes and textures.“

“What a delicious local spot to dine at!We made a very short notice reservation for four, and within two hours were accommodated thanks to a kind woman on the phone.We arrived at 4:45 and were greeted by Justice, who took great care of us throughout the experience.He recommended excellent wine pairings as well as thorough details of ingredients - to which my 3 course meal was truly perfect.It got quite busy after 5:30 and they were definitely short staffed but Justice kept being wonderful.Can't wait to be back and enjoy a rare local restaurant in Gainesville.“

“Traveling through, found this very nice location for dinner. Great meal. Cajun seared Tuna. Cooked perfectly. My waitress Kaylee(sic) was wonderful. The beer, nice and cold. They could use a little larger selection of beers. Parking is an issue on the square.“

“This morning, I ordered brioche french toast. However, that is not even the best part. One waiter waved from the back and two of the young ladies up front knew my name. It reminded me of the song from Cheers, "Sometimes you want to go, where everybody knows your name." My friend and I have been going to The Deli most every Sunday for a while now. Many of the wait staff have been there for a bit and I've seen several promoted from host. The kitchen has gotten it right most of the time. This restaurant is a local gem and, for good reasons, a popular place to get excellent noms.“

“I had the pleasure of being served by Ely Brazil at Gators Den Sports Grill, and I must say, she's a true gem! Her laid-back demeanor and friendly personality added a special touch to my dining experience.Her chill vibe and positive energy made the meal even more enjoyable.If you find yourself at Gators Den Sports Grill, be sure to say hello to Ely. She's a standout member of the team who exemplifies great customer service and hospitality.“

“My wife and I are staying in Gainesville for a family wedding and we decided to try the 16th Ave Diner because we saw many great reviews online and boy were they right. The food was AMAZING!! The OJ was tasty and the coffee was fresh. The place was packed but we were able to get seating at the bar. Everyone who served us was awesome!! The food was absolutely incredible!! The eggs, pancakes, and hash browns were absolutely delicious!!! Service was quick!! TY, 16th Ave Diner!!!“

“Ate here for the first time today and everything was amazing!! I got the smoked salmon toast and it was incredible! Great portion size and very pretty presentation. I also got the toasted marshmallow latte and it was very yummy and pretty. I will definitely be going back here!“

“I recently had a great experience at Vale Food Co, where I treated myself to their Keto Bowl. The service was exceptional, and the staff was friendly and attentive. The Keto Bowl itself was absolutely delicious, packed with fresh and flavorful ingredients that perfectly complemented my low-carb diet. I was thoroughly impressed by the quality and taste of the dish, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a satisfying and healthy meal option. Overall, my visit to Vale Food Co was a 5-star experience that left me eager to return for more culinary delights.“

“Embraced by the warmth of fleeting voices and welcoming assistance. As a nostalgic flavor reaches into my stomach. Grasping for the time I could come so close to perfection, as they do here. Will I ever know a time or place where I could come so near? Thoughts reach me to the farthest ends. Appreciation in all its greatest value, as it should when bittersweetness enters as I leave the threshold.Had an existential crisis. 10/10“

“This morning, I ordered brioche french toast. However, that is not even the best part. One waiter waved from the back and two of the young ladies up front knew my name. It reminded me of the song from Cheers, "Sometimes you want to go, where everybody knows your name." My friend and I have been going to The Deli most every Sunday for a while now. Many of the wait staff have been there for a bit and I've seen several promoted from host. The kitchen has gotten it right most of the time. This restaurant is a local gem and, for good reasons, a popular place to get excellent noms.“

“I ordered the Loco Moco for breakfast, something I've been wanting to try for eons and my god. How delicious it was. The gravy was flavorful, the burger was thick and tasty, the rice was perfect. Egg was great. I can't speak higher of this place. Next time I'd just ask for some extra gravy cause it was to die for ?“

“We had given up on Sonny's because the one in Alachua, FL had gone downhill in all ways. One day, around St. Patrick's day, we decided to try the Sonny's on 39th Street in Gainesville. Well, we now have our preferred Sonny's! We had a great server, Patricia. I asked to speak with the manager to praise Patricia. Ethan approached with a huge smile and I expressed my opinion on how great Patricia was. We talked quite a while and he truly made a connection. After a very enjoyable conversation, Ethan invited me to let him know the next time we were at the restaurant. Fast forward to April 15, 2024. We were greeted by Zach with a pleasant smile and great personality. I asked him if Ethan was working, which he was. I also asked if he could let Ethan know that I was there. Not long after we were sat, Ethan comes walking around the corner and when he saw me, his face lit up!!! He remembered everything about our last visit and even commented about my husband wearing a plaid shirt again. Another GREAT conversation and when our server, Elise, brought the food out, Ethan came out to check on us. Elise was also very kind, with a great smile. I noticed that all of the servers were smiling - at all times. What a great environment. A few days after our visit, I called to speak with the General Manager, Charles. Well, now I understand why the staff at Sonny's on 39th Street in Gainesville is so happy! Charles was an absolute delight to speak with and I expressed that his restaurant is our go-to Sonny's even though we have to travel further than our local Sonny's location. This is turning out to be a novel; however, it is important to me to always give praise where it is deserved. Kudos to Charles, Ethan and the associates at this Sonny's location!!“

“We had a great time at Rock and roll sushi! The sushi was probably the best I've ever had in Gainesville and the people were awesome. Our server, Luca, was so nice and made our date night extra special. They also have the best music videos playing right at the table. We even got to meet the managers! We'll definitely be back and bring our family and friends!“

“This a fantastic artisan meat/butcher's shop located in a local gathering place with different eateries and drink options, great atmosphere, super nice people! We had four different sausages and put them on the grill in our base camp in Paynes Prairie, tasted fabulous ?“

“East End Eatery is my favorite breakfast place in Gainesville! The best breakfast burrito in town! Always fresh veggies, gouda cheese grits that always satisfy, even a Florida native like me. Treat yourself to the best waffle in town. Crisp outside with light fluffy center. Not heavy at all. Real shrimp and grits worth the wait for cooked to order meal. The service is always friendly with a smile. The owner works all areas. She loves to meet customers. Hope you enjoy the experience as much as I do.“

“A most excellent place for both service and quality! The servers were very nice and quick - the food was great and nice full plates. It's a small place so everything comes out fast, they have a big menu and it's inexpensive. Clean bathroom, too.Wheelchair accessibility: Large table area that's accessible.“

“I’m from Tampa and this place was recommended from a friend. I was skeptical but this place is so quirky and unique. Our server Renh was amazing and made our experience even better! I had the chimichurri steak and nachos… 10/10. Also highly recommend the espresso martini with the house whiskey“

“Went on a Saturday night during March Madness before it got too crowded. Sat in a booth for 4. Haley was our server... She was AMAZING!! So easy to talk with, funny and just seem to get "us" as we were VERY hungry, thirsty and tired LOL. All our food was amazing, quick and hot... It was a bday celebration and I desperately wanted Capt. Jacks.. Someone must have given Haley a heads up and she told me that they were out.. I was disappointed and she looked a bit uncomfortable saying it. Then about 3 servers came out, with it and a candle and sang.. It was VERY cute.. We LOVE Ale House always but I will say she made the experience EXTRA fun!! The manager stopped by the table as well to check on us.. We can't wait to go back!!“

“We absolutely love this place! This was our second visit and tonight I had Meatloaf, REAL MASHED POTATOES, broccoli, brown gravy, salad, and garlic toast! I ordered a coffee (made fresh), and a sweet tea(best in town)! My husband had their Meatball Parmesan, with salad and garlic toast! The servings were abundant and I have lunch tomorrow(lol)! Ashley was our server and Felicia actually sat down and spoke with us like family! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS ESTABLISHMENT!❤️“

“Food was good but service was absolutely terrible. Couldn’t get a glass of water to save our lives. Literally had to ask 6 times then had to go to the bar tender. It wasn’t even busy. Server couldn’t pre bus our table either so we sat with dirty dishes all night.“

“The Flying Biscuit never disappoints! This time I tried the Dirty Bird dish and loved it! The chicken sausage gravy compliments the entire dish. The chicken tenders were juicy, and the belgian waffle was yummy. Of course, the biscuit with the apple butter is to die for. My Nephew loved his plain French toast. My Sister enjoyed her Free Bird with poached eggs. I recommend this spot if you're in Gainesville. Make sure to come early or put yourself on the waitlist - this place is always busy on the weekends.“

“We stopped in for dinner after a day at the NHRA track. We were so impressed with the management and servers. Crazy busy, but everyone was so polite . The staff hustled, and the managers were chipping in! The sign of a well run business. The food? Excellent. We had the sirloin w/asparagus and salmon w/Brussel sprouts.“

“We found this place after an appointment in Gainesville and it WILL BE a regular spot every time we are there! The bartender was hilarious and welcoming, the food was perfect, and the overall experience was top notch! HINT… best onion rings! They have a “Bottle Shoppe” that we didn’t get to visit but plan to in the near future. We got there at their opening for an early lunch before heading home but can see this being a fun place at all hours!“

“Afternoon’s has a very relaxed, simplistic environment that matches their menu serving American foods. You most likely will be waiting in line outside during busy hours to go to the counter to order your food. For a family ordering, I’m used to finding a table to settle the family and ordering, but you MUST order before seating yourselves. The prices are on the more expensive side for diner food. You order an entree and all sides are an added cost. I’m not sure if their pitch is for farm to table because their prices are up there especially for not being waited on. The best dish we ordered was the Dutch baby at $14, recalling from memory. We also had the traditional breakfast and BLT sandwich. Our side add ons were bacon, French omelette, pancakes “Johnny cakes” and a brioche filled apple pastry. I would recommend this place to the hipster, intimate, simple morning meet up, or for to go coffee! It’s not ideal for me.“

“Had a fun night with my daughter watching NBA playoff basketball and sharing some wings and salad. Savannah was an excellent server who helped us pick some great sauces for our wings. Kind of a quiet night here on a Tuesday, but great service and food made it all worthwhile.“

“So, this place was off the beaten path, we wanted to try something different instead of going to a regular food chain. It was very nice. The staff were friendly and kind, the atmosphere was great&the food was really good. We loved how they serve their water in a glass bottle and give everyone cups so you can pour it yourself. Definitely must try.Vegetarian options: They have a large selection of vegan options“

“There was a bit of a wait when we got there. Call ahead to check. But definitely worth the wait. Hosts and servers were very friendly!Even though my server had a table of 20 he still made sure we had everything we needed and checked on us often. Another female server stepped into help him, they worked together great! Will definitely be back!“

“Love this little extension of Cry Babys! The vibe is awesome, but I have yet to make it to a show at night. The happy hour is a good deal however - they have gin specials and some snacks to munch on before dinner. My favorite part of the bar has been the bartenders, they seem to really know what they are doing when it comes to mixology. Looking forward to seeing some of the creative cocktails that they come up with in the future!“

“My family and I took a trip to Gainesville and decided to get dinner here. It was wonderful. We got filet and Lobster tail. My husband got the aged NY Strip. Sides were mashed potatoes, Mac and cheese, creamed spinach. Everything was amazing. Our server Jess was attentive and very kind. I recommend the corn as well. We will certainly be back. It was a wonderful experience. Thank you for the amazing food and memories made.“

“While on a family road trip, we wanted to find somewhere delicious, local, and good for small children. There was so many great options and we highly recommend the classic burger, pimento cheese sandwich and the calamari. The staff was very hardworking and friendly, and you can tell they were working as a great team. We had a fantastic time with delicious food, atmosphere, and such a friendly crowdKid-friendliness: High chairs but no changing table“

“1st time eating here, very good service, good food, and excellent coffee (hot). I went with a friend and when I walked in the first thing you see is pies, cookies, muffins ? got me. I had ☕️ & Orange Cranberry muffin, it was served with butter and warmed up. So filling and great server.“

“Outside of how loud the music is inside, I really enjoy coming to Crybaby's. The staff are kind, courteous, and prompt, the food has never disappointed, and they have several great mocktails on their menu. I highly suggest their Korean gochujang tenders with the rosemary parmasean fries. Attractive local place for meeting with friends or a casual date.“

“I dined at this restaurant for brunch with my boyfriend and it was a nice environment super cute in there with a lot of variety in seating options, including some couches which is cool! Our server Savannah was really nice and attentive. I had the Veggie Benny, it was delicious and filling! I also ordered a mimosa- very good but it wasn’t that big so if you’re going to order more than one I would just go for the bottomless ;) My boyfriend tried Country Fried Steak which he wasn’t super impressed with but it came with a lot of stuff and he liked the sides. I would suggest getting there early to find parking and just a heads up it gets pretty loud so maybe try to go on a less busy day or ask for a corner table or outside seat if you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience.Parking: 1-2 hour limits on most parking spots and a lot of parking spots only have 15 min limits.“

“I like bolay they have lots of healthy options and they give you a good amount of food. This location was very clean and the staff was very helpful and accommodating they allowed me to get multiple sauces. I really like the sweet potato noodles, balsamic mushrooms, and the teriyaki chicken. They also gave out free food for their opening which is really nice“

“With my husband, we were craving some Cracker barrel and drove all the way from Melrose ?. We usually stop by any location that is on the way when we go on roadtrips butsince we were craving some breakfast for supper and wanted to go on a date, we looked up and this was the closest location. We also read about the eclipse pancakes which my husband was happy about so we decided to go. ?Good service, our waitress Lilly was very nice and helpful, the staff in general seem pretty friendly, the food was as expected ? delicious. Clean and nice atmosphere. It was worth the drive ?Overall I would recommend this location.“

“Believe it or not the restaurant on the pre-gate side of the airport was spectacular. I had the best breakfast sandwich I’ve ever had, and I was at the airport! The English muffin sausage egg and cheese was as good as any sandwich but I’ve gotten traveling. Maybe was because I was going on vacation, but I have to say is a great start to a great trip. Thank you ladies; that was delicious.“

“I had 2 eggs, hash browns with 2x onions , Bacon which is always perfect plus the one thing I go there for.. the WAFFLE! I WISH THEY HAD real butter to offer. It is always still good. I was pleased to know that they still have their your steaks and pork chops on the menu because that's what I love there and it had not been on their new menu so I asked and happy to know that they are still available to choose. Which really was the most exciting part of my morning.“