27 Best American Restaurants near Alachua

“I like the food at Sonny's, but don't go there often because the customer service is hit or miss. Yesterday I phoned in my order. Liz took my phone order, and made sure it was correct. Best of all she was super nice as well as efficient. Thanks Liz, I will visit Sonny's in Alachua more often if you are an example of the customer service at that location.“

“So I moved to the area about a year ago. Long story short, my family and I eat there more than any other local restaurant. Axel runs an incredible kitchen and bar. The food is incredible. I've tried most of the menu and there hasn't been anything that we thought was lack luster. Great food, great atmosphere. 10/10 would recommend to anyone in town. All the servers have been great but special shout out to Megan that goes above and beyond.“

“muy amables y rapidos y atentos“

“Had lunch here Tuesday with a ole friend everyone was wonderful service was great and the food was amazing I definitely enjoyed my first visit here as I am from Kentucky“

“Excellent food! Finally found a good Italian hoagie. And the entire staff was SUPER friendly. Will absolutely recommend to everyone. Thank you all!“

“Absolutely LOVED the Enlightened field greens salad.😋🍽 Must get if you enjoy a light, refreshing, and filling meal. Meera was absolutely fantastic!! She was patient and answered all my questions (I’m a slow orderer lol).😅 Vibrant smile and servant heart! Truly the best! 10/10 all around and she even helped me learn more about the World Cup! 🤩🔥 Oh and she is the FIRST waitress in my life that has asked if anyone had dietary restrictions!!“

“Food was delicious and fresh. I would recommend the salmon croquettes and catfish.“

“I had a very good experience going here and they have very good food! Thank you!“

“There’s so much to like about this place. You come in through a garden type atmosphere with an enclosed bar, plenty of seating and sometimes outdoor entertainment. The water tower in the back is the cherry on top. It’s not like your traditional sit down restaurant as you come in, order and take your number and find your seat in a variety of places. There is a pool and arcade room to your left, traditional horseshoe bar to the right then as you go further more seating with a lounge type seating area. Behind that are two private rooms with pool tables and seating. The food is reasonably priced and yummy. The staff is great and suitable for families as well as a nightlife spot for singes. Definitely worth trying out for yourself!“

“Great food and amazing service“

“In January 2026 we had a baby shower for my daughter at the cafe. Sarah and the staff were great!! We had a big party, and they did everything they could to make it special. The food, atmosphere, music and price were great. I couldn't ask for anything more. If you ever have a special event this is the place to have it.“

“Staff and food are always excellent...“

“I don’t even know where to begin to keep things succinct. Everything we had was fresh, super flavorful, and absolutely stellar. The decor on the walls is wonderful, and generally- even with the restaurant full up- it was nice and quiet. The food was amazing, and I will be back several times.

My only complaint, honestly, was whoever they had working as their wait staff. He was extremely inattentive, but we also overheard him say this was “the first time he’d had a job like this,” so we gave a good bit of grace.

The owners, any time they were out, were SO kind and attentive, and the fact it’s run by two people is insane. This is a place to go and sit down, relax, and get a nice meal made with care, and their love for it really shows.

I could recommend this place for days.“

“Had the largest bowl, amazing variety, so many excellent flavors“

“great food, great service at very reasonable prices. a must go to when entertaining out of town guests or family.“

“Howdy yo I love you guys or my name is Shaggy Rogers dude!“

“Charles is amazing“

“First time eating here today and it won't be our last! Amazing food and super nice people! I highly recommend you give them a try.“

“Best breakfast and lunch. Worth going to. Cheaper than any other diner. Clean“

“Delicious every time, healthy and yum!“

“Anytime I meet my son for brunch in Gainesville this is where I want to eat! Love the Flying Biscuit! Food is so yummy!!“

“I have been to Sandy’s place twice now, each time a a different but absolutely amazing experience. The food is great and staff is very friendly and welcoming. The new owner and chef is amazing too! I highly recommend.“

“Been a patron for years. Like the food, the prices and the vibe. Last night I ordered takeout. Online menu prices were not included. Upon arrival I discovered my Philly Cheese sandwich was $19.50. What is this, Ruth Chris? Good sandwich for ten. Not 20. Taking a break from Crafty.“

“Great food, fast, friendly service.“

“Our second visit was just as great as first visit last month. Erin was super as usual and LT made us comfortable. They are five star all the way. We will definitely come again. A group of 10 men.“

“Mother’s is a staple bar in Gainesville. The food is homemade and always affordable. The staff are accommodating, friendly, and personable. It is always a fun and safe atmosphere. There is always entertainment of some sort. Management tolerates zero shenanigans and yet will still go out of their way to make you happy.“

“our attentive server today name Cadence, she is awesome, friendly and definitely gave us choices for drinks that i appreciate a lot, hope if you go there you get her as your server she made our visit enjoyable. foods great, drinks are great, my husband felt his drink was a little bit on the sweet side but Cadence took the time and see how to change it for his taste.“