50 Best American Restaurants in Gainesville

“Spurrier's Gridiron Grille serves delicious dishes like crab and lobster cakes, Mac and cheese, and French fries, along with great options for gluten-free and vegetarian diets. The attentive and kind staff provide wonderful service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. While some minor issues with temperature and pests have been reported, the restaurant takes care of them promptly.“

“16th Avenue Diner is a small, friendly spot that serves great diner food. The breakfast burrito with chicken and home fries is a popular choice, while the Philly Cheesesteak, hash browns, and burgers are also delicious. The diner's breakfast options are plentiful, and the coffee is always fresh. With friendly service and a cozy atmosphere, 16th Avenue Diner is a must-visit spot for a satisfying meal.“

“Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen offers a fantastic dining experience, providing healthy and delicious meals at reasonable prices. The restaurant caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options, with standout dishes like the mushrooms, tofu, and sweet potato. Bolay's commitment to quality and customer service is evident, making it a popular choice for both dine-in and takeout.“

“Mildred's Big City Food offers an outstanding dining experience with delicious three-course meals, including a Caesar salad, pork special, and chocolate cake. The restaurant provides good value and a great atmosphere for dinner conversations. The staff is accommodating and the service is top-notch, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.“

“The Top is a delightful restaurant with a fun and festive atmosphere and an eclectic LA retro vibe. The staff, including servers Dan, Patrick, and Renh, are knowledgeable and attentive. The menu offers a variety of dishes, such as filet, blackened salmon, salmon affumicato, blackened tempeh, tofu with spicy peanut sauce, chimichurri steak, and nachos. For dessert, don't miss the chocolate cake. The drink selection includes a range of options, but the wine list could use an update. Prices are reasonable, and the patio is a great place to enjoy a meal.“

“Fehrenbacher's Artisan Sausage in Gainesville is a must-visit for sausage and local meat lovers. The restaurant offers high-quality, homemade sausages, local beef, dry-aged and wagyu steak, housemade bacon, foie gras, and other treats like jerky and smoked mukket. The service is quick, and the atmosphere is enhanced by the option to dine in covered outdoor areas. The menu includes excellent sandwiches, salads, and charcuterie boards, with both meat and vegetarian options available. The staff is hardworking, friendly, and the parking lot is spacious, although street parking may be necessary during lunch hours.“

“Ford's Garage Gainesville is a great restaurant with a unique atmosphere and decor that car enthusiasts will love. The food is very good, with creative burger creations and plenty of protein options, including turkey burgers. The sides are also delicious, with a highlight being the incredible side salad. The service is top-notch, with knowledgeable and attentive servers. With its fun atmosphere and attention to detail, Ford's Garage Gainesville is a great spot for a meal or drinks.“

“HASS Kitchen is a charming restaurant with Asian fusion influences, serving great brunch staples and unique espresso drinks. The menu offers something for everyone, including veggie-friendly options with avocado. Dishes such as shakshuka, hash bowls, steak and eggs, and chicken and waffles are highly praised. The staff is kind and welcoming, making it a popular spot for breakfast and brunch.“

“That Bar and Table is a hidden gem off the beaten path, offering a unique dining experience. The staff are friendly and kind, creating a great atmosphere. The food is really good, with a large selection of vegan options. The restaurant's unique touches, such as self-serve water, add to its charm. A must-try destination that's definitely worth revisiting.“

“Afternoon is a delightful spot, praised for its outstanding dishes like crispy potatoes and the sublime Dutch baby with oranges, thyme, and real maple syrup. Their coffee is a highlight, earning the title of best in Gainesville. The service is friendly and attentive, and the ambience is cozy. The menu features a variety of options, including shakshuka and whipped feta, perfect for brunch with friends, family, or a date.“

“Prime & Pearl offers an upscale dining experience with excellent service and delicious food. The staff is attentive and courteous, ensuring a personalized experience for each guest. They are attentive to details, as shown by their quick response when a meal was not prepared to a diner's liking. The team, led by Harry, makes every guest feel valued. Meals are amazing and can be enjoyed during special occasions, like anniversaries, making the experience even more memorable with thoughtful gestures like a card on the table.“

“Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen offers tasty vegan options with a strong flavor profile, although noodle doneness may vary. The restaurant is conveniently located near campus and is known for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and generous food portions. Popular dishes include sweet potato noodles, balsamic mushrooms, and teriyaki chicken. Bolay occasionally provides free food during openings.“

“Original American Kitchen (OAK) is a dining destination that offers a unique and delightful culinary experience. The restaurant boasts a warm and sophisticated atmosphere, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal. The menu is a diverse and tempting selection, featuring both classic comfort dishes and daring culinary creations that tantalize the taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for a filet or a sweet and indulgent Chocolate Razzy, this restaurant delivers on all fronts. The service is a standout, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure that every diner feels welcomed and pampered. While the portions may be on the smaller side, the high-quality ingredients and impeccable presentation make up for it. Despite the occasionally overwhelming atmosphere, OAK remains a culinary haven that is worth revisiting, especially for their acclaimed brunch offerings.“

“Cracker Barrel Old Country Store offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a menu featuring classic American comfort foods. The waitstaff is generally friendly and attentive, providing prompt service. The portions are generous, and the food is typically fresh and hot. However, some customers have reported occasional delays in food delivery and lukewarm dishes. Despite these occasional inconsistencies, Cracker Barrel remains a popular choice for families, with a good kid's menu available. The restaurant also offers accessible seating and parking for customers with mobility needs.“

“Gators Dockside Gainesville is a restaurant where customers can enjoy a pleasant atmosphere for meals and special occasions. The service is a highlight, with servers like Savannah and Laila going above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience. They are attentive, helpful with menu selections, and create a welcoming environment. The menu offers various options, including wings with a variety of sauces, salads, and roast beef. However, there have been some issues with food preparation, such as excess salt on the roast beef and incorrect vegetables served. Despite these minor flaws, the restaurant's positive aspects, particularly the service, make it a place worth visiting.“

“BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse provides exceptional service and delicious food. The attentive servers, like Joelle, ensure a pleasant dining experience, refilling drinks and food promptly. The unlimited soup and salad is a popular choice, and the menu offers tasty entrees made to order. With a focus on friendly and knowledgeable service, BJ's Brewhouse is a great spot for a meal out.“

“Hurricane BTW offers a unique dining experience with a variety of delicious meals like Firecracker Shrimp tacos, BTW Burger, loaded fries, and fried pickles. Customers can enjoy a free milkshake on their first visit. The wings are crispy and juicy, with unique sauces that stand out. The hospitable staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place for families, with discounts for regular visitors. Despite some uncomfortable metal chairs, the exceptional service and tasty food make Hurricane BTW a gem worth visiting, especially for wing lovers.“

“Brick Road is a newly opened restaurant in The Haile Village area. While some initial service issues were experienced, recent visits have shown improvements. The staff is friendly and efficient, especially accommodating towards families with children. The food, including options like fried green tomatoes, fried ravioli, and a tasty meatball sub, is delicious. The atmosphere is welcoming, making it a great neighborhood family restaurant. The proximity to a playground adds to the appeal for families. With potential for improvement in service, Brick Road is on its way to becoming a popular choice for locals.“

“My daughter and I agreed that the pastrami sandwiches we had pre-flight were among the BEST we've ever had, anywhere. And the onion rings definitely were the best - perfectly crispy until the last one was consumed. Great service, too!“

“Metro Diner is a restaurant known for its excellent service and delicious food. The servers, such as Kyle and Ryan, are praised for their kindness, attentiveness, and love for their job. They provide informative assistance and create a friendly atmosphere, making customers feel welcome. The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices, with highly recommended options like the Bissell breakfast and cinnamon roll pancakes. The diner serves breakfast and lunch all day, making it a convenient choice for any time of the day. One popular dish is the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans, which stands out for its homemade quality and taste. The restaurant has a feel-good atmosphere, and customers appreciate the helpfulness and generosity of the staff, especially in situations where assistance is needed. Overall, Metro Diner offers a high-quality experience, making it a desirable place for a meal, with some considering it a potential regular spot.“

“Rock and Roll Sushi is a restaurant that offers delicious sushi and a unique dining experience in Gainesville. The sushi has been praised as some of the best by visitors. The restaurant features music videos playing at the tables and a lively ambiance. The service is exceptional, with servers like Luca making a memorable experience for customers. However, the poke bowl may not meet everyone's expectations, as it differs from traditional poke and takes longer to prepare. Despite this, the restaurant's friendly staff and great service make it a place worth visiting, and many customers plan to return.“

“This is a great little place for takeout food between classes. It’s like a pod market but also has a boars head, starbucks express, kfc express, and a smoothie place (think smoothie king).I got a takeout sub from boars head with spinach, tomato, banana peppers, onion, roast beef, and wheat bread and a whole sub was only $8. I found the price amazing for being on campus food. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone if you’re tired of subway!“

“Fresh Kitchen in Gainesville offers delicious and healthy meals, making it a great dining alternative. The restaurant is well-managed, with exceptional service from employees like Nicole, who ensures food is made quickly and to perfection. The catering pick-up process is easy, and Nicole's attentiveness makes the experience pleasant, encouraging future orders.“

“Plantology is a restaurant that offers delicious vegan food, including the popular Crispy Chic'N sandwich and Mac n cheese. Their brunch options are a favorite among customers. Although a bit pricey, the use of high-quality vegan ingredients justifies it. The food truck setting has a pleasant atmosphere, and the service is quick. The menu clearly lists ingredients, making it easy to order. Beverages are also available. Despite the spiciness of some dishes, such as the Mac, customers find the seasoning to be very flavorful.“

“Paramount Grill in Gainesville offers perfect takeout dinners with careful packaging. The Beet Salad and Duck Breast are must-try items. The restaurant provides quick service even during busy times. It offers upper-class, unique dining experience with friendly staff and refreshing tattoos on servers and chefs. The prices are reasonable for the quality and presentation of meals, making it a place worth revisiting and recommending to others.“

“One Love Cafe is a small restaurant with a fantastic location and a great atmosphere. Although there is no indoor seating, there are plenty of outdoor options. The menu offers vegetarian and vegan-friendly options such as tofu quesadillas, Mediterranean tofu wraps, and veggie burgers. The staff is friendly, and the food is served quickly and tastes great. Previously, there were concerns about quality, but recent visits have shown improvement, making it a regular spot for many.“

“Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille offers a warm welcome and exceptional service, even on busy nights. The restaurant features a beautiful interior and a lovely view of the town. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including sautéed scallops in cheese sauce, Mahi Mahi, and collard greens, all of which are made to order. The atmosphere is fun and lively, making it a great spot for celebrations.“

“Vale Food Co. is a welcoming and helpful fast casual option that offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian choices. The staff are kind and provide great insight into the menu options. The food is always fresh and delicious, with dishes like large bowl vegan chicken tenders being a popular choice. With great customer service and a wide range of healthy options, Vale Food Co. is a great spot for those looking for a quick and tasty meal.“

“The 43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House offers warm and friendly service, with staff and customers creating a welcoming atmosphere. Known for great food, popular menu items include veggie omelettes, large 7-grain pancakes, chicken salad sandwiches, and eggs Benedict. While they don't have gluten-free options, they take pride in serving straightforward, well-prepared dishes. Located off Highway 75, it's an ideal spot for a satisfying meal during long car rides.“

“Gators Den Sports Grill offers a lively atmosphere with friendly staff and delicious menu options. Customers praise the welcoming bartenders, such as Jessi, Ely Brazil, and Eleir, who provide excellent customer service and create an enjoyable dining experience. The menu features popular items like the "Monte Cristo" sandwich, and the restaurant accommodates late-arriving customers. Overall, Gators Den Sports Grill is a great spot for a fun time with good food and a vibrant local vibe.“

“Applebee's Grill + Bar offers consistently good food, with diners praising the Wonton Chicken Tacos and sirloin, mashed potatoes, and broccoli as excellent meals. The restaurant has a very chill, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parking. The staff is attentive and helpful, with one manager going above and beyond to resolve a delivery issue, impressing the customer with their polite and calm demeanor.“

“43rd Street Deli & Breakfast House is a classic diner cafe with excellent service and a menu that pleases everyone. Known for serving the best Ruben sandwiches in town, it is a local go-to spot for breakfast. The atmosphere is welcoming, making customers feel instantly at home. The specials menu showcases the creativity and thoughtfulness behind each dish, offering a unique taste that keeps customers coming back for more. The omelets are particularly fantastic, fluffy, flavorful, and made with the freshest ingredients. The staff, some of whom have been with the restaurant for several years, provide exceptional customer service, ensuring a perfect dining experience. With new and exciting creations on the specials sheet regularly, 43rd Street Deli is a locally owned and locally loved establishment that leaves customers feeling satisfied and appreciated.“

“Miller's Ale House, particularly the Gainesville location, is a great spot for a relaxing meal and drinks. The service is commendable, with staff members like Ella providing a welcoming and patient approach. The chicken nachos and mozzarella sticks are delicious options. For those looking for a refreshing beverage, the mango pineapple mojito is a must-try. Overall, it's a recommended destination for a satisfying dining experience.“

“Sonny's BBQ on Archer Road is a place where kindness and good food meet. The staff, like Jamie, Ashly, and Amber, go above and beyond to make customers feel at home. Despite some minor inconveniences like loud music, the delicious food and exceptional service make it a worthwhile stop. Whether you're dealing with a torn ligament, anxiety, or have special needs, the staff at Sonny's BBQ will make sure you leave with a smile on your face. A place where good food and caring service come together to create a memorable dining experience.“

“Country Foodly is a charming breakfast and lunch spot on the NW side of Gainesville. The unassuming storefront leads to a cozy atmosphere where the friendly staff serve up delicious dishes like bulgogi omelet and chicken and waffles. Prices are affordable, and the service is top-notch, with the staff going the extra mile to make customers feel special. The menu offers American classics like sausage and bacon, as well as Korean-inspired options like bulgogi beef omelet. With easy, free parking right in front of the restaurant, Country Foodly is definitely worth a visit for a satisfying meal.“

“Sonny's BBQ is known for its delicious food and kind, efficient staff. Manager Ethan Olive is praised for his great management. The restaurant offers a clean and welcoming environment with wheelchair accessibility. Families appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere and ample parking. While there has been a recent slowdown in service, the kitchen is typically fast and efficient. The only downside mentioned is the absence of tap-to-pay options.“

“East End Eatery is a favorite spot for many, particularly known for its breakfast. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with artwork from local artists adorning the walls, which are also available for purchase. The service is friendly and attentive, and the food is highly praised for its freshness and quality. They offer gluten-free and vegan options. However, some diners have noted smaller portions and slower kitchen service during lunch hours. Despite these occasional issues, East End Eatery is widely regarded as a delightful dining experience.“

“Baby's Kitchen is a restaurant offering delicious home-cooked meals for breakfast and lunch. The Loco Moco, a customer favorite, features a flavorful gravy, thick tasty burger, and perfectly cooked rice and egg. The home fries are fresh and the staff is known for their thoughtful gestures, such as providing extra food for children. The breakfast sandwiches, including a bagel with bacon and a croissant with pepper jack cheese, are made to order with perfectly cooked, buttery, and well-seasoned eggs. Although there is no interior seating, the counter attendant is kind and the prices are reasonable. Overall, Baby's Kitchen is a great addition to any breakfast rotation, with fresh, tasty meals at affordable prices.“

“The Flying Biscuit Cafe is a restaurant that offers a wide variety of delicious food options, appealing to meat lovers, vegetarians, pescatarians, and vegans alike. Their menu includes standout dishes such as the Dirty Bird with chicken sausage gravy, chicken tenders, and a Belgian waffle, as well as the Free Bird with poached eggs. For those with dietary restrictions, the staff is accommodating and willing to work with you. The atmosphere is described as a mix of eclectic and city life, with a friendly and welcoming vibe. It is a great spot for families, as they provide high chairs and there is plenty of space for children. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible with easy access and close-by handicap parking. Located in Gainesville, it can get busy on weekends, so it is recommended to arrive early or put yourself on the waitlist. There is a good-sized parking lot outside. While the food is of decent quality, some may find it lacking a standout element.“

“Crafty Bastards Restaurant is a hidden gem that serves delicious food with a wide selection of taps and a bottle shop next door. The quirky servers provide excellent service, and the atmosphere is cozy. Must-try items include the wings, cheese curds, and the best pork rinds ever. With a rotating music lineup, this restaurant is a must-go-to spot, offering a unique experience where you can even win a Harley Davidson chill.“

“Culver's is a bustling restaurant that efficiently serves a high volume of customers, even during peak lunch hours. This popular spot is known for its delicious fish and other menu items, including the ButterBurger and cheese curds. The drive-thru can be a bit slow, but the friendly staff makes up for it with their excellent service. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the food is always fresh, hot, and tasty. Don't forget to try the heavenly frozen custard! Despite occasional mistakes with orders, the staff is quick to correct them, ensuring a great dining experience.“

“Sandy's Place in Gainesville is a beloved neighborhood Greek restaurant with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is incredibly attentive and friendly, making you feel like part of the family. The menu highlights include buffalo wings, Greek salad, gyro, cheese curds, and spinach pie, all served with exceptional quality and flavor. While the entrees are good but not outstanding, the homemade recipes using fresh ingredients are commendable. The portions are generous, ensuring a satisfying meal. Sandy's is a solid choice for a non-chain family restaurant in the area, where you can enjoy hearty meals and friendly service. Don't miss out on the cozy ambiance and delicious dishes at Sandy's Place.“

“Applebee's Grill + Bar offers a pleasant dining experience. Friendly and efficient servers, like the one who doubled as a bartender, ensure that customers receive prompt service. While the atmosphere is standard for a chain restaurant, the local hangout vibe adds a touch of warmth. The food is adequate, with some dishes meeting expectations, while others may require customization. The kitchen seems to rely heavily on salt for seasoning. However, the service is generally friendly, and the restaurant is willing to go the extra mile, as evidenced by the manager's gesture of providing extra fries. Overall, Applebee's Grill + Bar provides a decent dining experience, with room for improvement in terms of flavor and attention to detail.“

“New Deal Cafe offers amazing service with very kind staff who go out of their way to make customers feel comfortable. The menu includes delicious options like the classic burger, pimento cheese sandwich, calamari, Mildred Club sandwich, and lamb burger. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with high chairs available for kids. Dessert options like the strawberry shortcake and Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake are a must-try. Customers have noted the friendly crowd and hardworking staff who work well together. Just be aware of the 12% service charge and that the jalapeño margarita might be too spicy for some.“

“Keke's Breakfast Cafe offers solid and reliable food, decent service, and reasonable prices. The menu features a range of options, including eggs Benedict and chicken and waffles. While some dishes may have minor imperfections, such as slightly overcooked eggs or underdone waffles, the flavors are generally fine. The atmosphere is friendly, with attentive servers and clean bathrooms. The cafe is conveniently located near other stores and a museum, making it a safe and solid choice for breakfast.“

“The Keys Grill & Piano Bar offers a mix of experiences. While some find the seating uncomfortable, others enjoy the outdoor bar. The crab & lobster bisque is recommended, but the crab cakes may have too much filler. The grouper sandwich is generous in portion. Some dishes like steak and fish were overcooked, while others like the salsa were praised. The atmosphere is beautiful, but the food quality may not justify the price.“

“TGI Fridays offers a variety of delicious dishes, including a Thai Mango salad, potstickers, Bacon Cheeseburger, Caesar salad, and potato skins. The brownie with ice cream is a must-try for dessert. Customers have praised the excellent service, with staff such as Baylor providing great energy and attention to parties of all sizes. Parking is plentiful. However, there have been some concerns regarding menu options and portion sizes, with some customers expressing disappointment in the response to their feedback. Overall, TGI Fridays is a spot for good food and service.“

“Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is a convenient stop near the interstate, offering excellent food and service. Kids enjoy a free cookie with their meal, making it a family-friendly spot. While some servers may have an off day, the overall experience is positive. The restaurant is known for its good food, hot coffee, and delicious baked goods, including pies, cookies, and muffins like the Orange Cranberry muffin. With a few minor improvements, such as cleaning tables more thoroughly, Perkins remains a welcoming destination for many.“

“LongHorn Steakhouse is a cozy restaurant with excellent service and delicious food. The staff is friendly, professional, and attentive. The meals, from burgers to ribeye steaks, are always cooked to perfection and very tasty. The atmosphere is calm, perfect for a family dinner. The corn, meat, and lemonade with fresh fruit are highly recommended. The NY Strip steak and Brussel sprouts with honey butter are particularly delicious. Don't miss out on the amazing Chocolate Stampede dessert. A great place for a good burger or steak in a nice, not too loud ambiance.“