11 Florida Restaurants Known Statewide For Their Iconic Winter Dishes
When winter arrives in Florida, the weather cools down just enough to make warm, comforting food taste even better.
While other states deal with snow and ice, Floridians enjoy mild temperatures that are perfect for savoring hearty soups, fresh seafood, and cozy meals at their favorite local spots.
These restaurants have become famous across the state for serving winter dishes that bring people together and create delicious memories.
From classic stone crab to steaming chowders and Spanish-inspired comfort food, these iconic eateries prove that Florida knows how to do winter dining right.
1. Joe’s Stone Crab – Miami Beach
Stone crab season and winter go together like peanut butter and jelly in South Florida, and nobody does it better than this legendary establishment.
Since 1913, this Miami Beach icon has been serving the most famous stone crab claws in the entire state, drawing seafood lovers from every corner of Florida and beyond.
The restaurant perfected the art of cracking these sweet, succulent claws and serving them chilled with their signature mustard sauce that people dream about year-round.
Winter marks peak stone crab season, officially running from October 15 through May 1, making this the ultimate destination for anyone craving this seasonal delicacy.
The claws arrive fresh daily, harvested sustainably so the crabs can regenerate their claws and continue thriving in Florida waters.
Families have been making pilgrimages here for generations, creating traditions around sharing platters piled high with these crimson treasures.
The atmosphere buzzes with excitement as servers navigate the bustling dining room carrying trays of the restaurant’s most requested items.
Beyond the famous claws, the menu features other seafood selections that complement the main attraction perfectly.
Every bite transports diners to a place where quality, tradition, and Florida’s natural bounty converge beautifully.
Address: 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
2. Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar – Sarasota
Tucked away on Old Stickney Point Road, this Sarasota gem has earned its reputation by serving some of the Gulf Coast’s most soul-warming seafood dishes when temperatures drop.
Captain Curt’s specializes in fresh oysters and crab preparations that showcase the incredible bounty of Florida’s coastal waters during the cooler months.
The restaurant’s chowders have achieved near-mythical status among locals who know that a steaming bowl here can cure just about anything winter throws your way.
What makes this spot special is the commitment to sourcing the freshest catches and preparing them with recipes that have been refined over years of operation.
The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel like a regular, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
Oyster lovers rejoice at the impressive selection available, shucked to order and served with all the classic accompaniments.
The crab dishes range from simple steamed preparations to more elaborate creations that highlight the sweet meat’s natural flavor.
Winter evenings here feel magical as diners gather around tables sharing platters and swapping stories.
The restaurant proves that sometimes the best dining experiences happen in unpretentious places where the food speaks loudest.
Address: 1200 Old Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
3. Flounder’s Chowder House – Gulf Breeze
Right on the water at Quietwater Beach, this Pensacola Beach area favorite has been ladling out legendary chowder that warms hearts and bellies throughout the winter season.
The name says it all, chowder is the star here, and they’ve elevated this humble soup to an art form that keeps people coming back bowl after bowl.
Their signature recipes combine fresh Gulf seafood with creamy bases and perfectly balanced seasonings that create pure comfort in every spoonful.
Flounder’s has become synonymous with waterfront dining done right, offering spectacular views alongside food that tastes like a warm hug from the ocean.
Winter months bring cooler breezes off the Gulf, making the covered outdoor seating areas absolutely perfect for enjoying a hot meal while watching boats drift by.
The menu extends beyond chowder to include other seafood preparations that celebrate local catches and traditional coastal cooking methods.
Families appreciate the relaxed vibe and kid-friendly options that make dining out stress-free and enjoyable for all ages.
Sunset dinners here during winter become cherished memories, with the sky painted in brilliant colors as you savor each delicious bite.
This restaurant understands that great food tastes even better when served with a side of natural beauty.
Address: 800 Quietwater Beach Rd, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561
4. Tony’s Chowder House – Mount Dora
Mount Dora’s charming downtown hides a chowder paradise that has become a winter pilgrimage site for soup enthusiasts across Central Florida.
Tony’s took the bold step of putting chowder front and center in their name, and they back it up with recipes that have earned devoted fans throughout the region.
Tony’s is best known for its award-winning clam chowder, which has earned devoted fans throughout the region, and while it offers other seafood favorites, its signature chowder remains the star attraction.
Located in one of Florida’s most picturesque small towns, dining here feels like stepping into a cozy New England fishing village transplanted to the Sunshine State.
Winter brings pleasant weather perfect for strolling Mount Dora’s antique shops and galleries before settling in for a warming meal.
The chowders range from traditional New England clam to creative variations featuring local ingredients and inspired flavor combinations.
Each bowl arrives steaming hot, garnished beautifully, and accompanied by crackers or fresh bread for soaking up every last drop.
Beyond soup, the menu offers seafood entrees and comfort classics that round out the dining experience nicely.
The friendly service and hometown atmosphere make visitors feel welcomed and appreciated from the moment they walk through the door.
Address: 622 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, FL 32757
5. Columbia Restaurant – Tampa
Florida’s oldest restaurant has been serving Spanish-Cuban cuisine in Ybor City since 1905, making it a living piece of state history where winter dining becomes a cultural experience.
Columbia’s winter menu features hearty Spanish dishes that warm you from the inside out, with their famous paella taking center stage as a cold-weather favorite.
The massive pans of saffron-infused rice studded with seafood, chicken, and vegetables create a feast that’s meant for sharing and savoring slowly.
Walking into this restaurant feels like traveling back in time, with hand-painted tiles, ornate chandeliers, and Old World elegance surrounding you at every turn.
The building spans an entire city block, offering multiple dining rooms each with its own unique character and charm.
Their Spanish bean soup has achieved legendary status, appearing on tables frequently as a beloved signature menu item rather than a complimentary starter, and it sets the tone for the incredible meal to follow.
Flamenco dancers perform regularly, adding entertainment to the already spectacular dining experience.
Generations of families have celebrated special occasions here, creating memories tied to the timeless flavors and unmatched atmosphere.
Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
6. Ashley’s of Rockledge – Rockledge
Ashley’s blends a casual, historic restaurant and bar atmosphere with Florida charm, offering comforting meals in a landmark building known for its storied past.
While located near the scenic Indian River, it is best appreciated for its character and history rather than as a traditional waterfront fine-dining destination.
Ashley’s combines fine dining elegance with the relaxed Florida lifestyle, resulting in a restaurant where special occasions feel even more memorable.
Their winter menu showcases the chef’s creativity and technical skill, with dishes that look like edible artwork and taste even better than they appear.
The waterfront location provides stunning views that enhance every meal, especially during winter when the weather is perfect for enjoying the outdoor patio areas.
Watching the sun set over the river while savoring expertly prepared seafood creates moments that stay with you long after the last bite.
Seasonal preparations highlight local catches prepared with French-inspired techniques and contemporary presentations that delight both the eyes and palate.
Winter brings heartier preparations and richer sauces that satisfy without feeling heavy, striking that perfect balance fine dining strives to achieve.
The attention to detail extends from the kitchen to the table service, ensuring every aspect of the experience meets the highest standards.
Address: 1609 US Highway 1, Rockledge, FL 32955
7. Stonewood Grill & Tavern – Ormond Beach
Just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, this polished grill has built a following by serving comfort-forward dishes that shine brightest during Florida’s cooler months.
Stonewood specializes in wood-fired preparations that add depth and smokiness to everything from seafood to steaks, creating flavors that feel especially satisfying when winter winds blow.
Their signature dishes balance sophistication with approachability, making fine dining accessible to everyone who walks through their doors.
The restaurant’s warm, inviting atmosphere features rich wood tones and comfortable seating that encourages lingering over meals and good conversation.
Winter evenings here feel special, with the dining room buzzing with energy as friends and families gather to celebrate life’s everyday moments.
Seasonal menu additions highlight winter vegetables and heartier preparations that complement the year-round favorites perfectly.
The kitchen’s commitment to quality ingredients and proper cooking techniques results in consistently excellent meals that justify the restaurant’s stellar reputation.
Ormond Beach residents consider this a go-to spot for date nights, family celebrations, and those times when only a really good meal will do.
The service strikes the right balance between attentive and unobtrusive, allowing diners to relax and enjoy their experience fully.
Address: 100 S Atlantic Ave, Ormond Beach, FL 32176
8. Gary’s Oyster Bar & Seafood House – Lake Alfred
In the heart of Central Florida, this unassuming seafood house has become a destination for oyster enthusiasts and anyone craving authentic coastal flavors during the winter season.
Gary’s proves you don’t need to be on the coast to serve outstanding seafood, bringing ocean-fresh oysters and fish inland where they’re prepared with skill and served with genuine hospitality.
The oyster bar showcases varieties from different regions, allowing diners to taste the subtle differences that make each type unique and special.
Winter marks prime oyster season, and this restaurant celebrates by serving fresh oysters prepared multiple ways, focusing on quality and flavor rather than promoting specific regional varieties.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere lets the food take center stage, with regulars filling the tables most nights and newcomers quickly understanding what all the fuss is about.
Fried seafood baskets, steamed shellfish, and creative daily specials round out a menu designed to please seafood lovers of every preference.
Lake Alfred might seem like an unexpected location for such a seafood gem, but that’s part of the charm and appeal.
This restaurant has proven that passion and quality matter more than proximity to the ocean.
Address: 660 East Alfred Street, Lake Alfred, FL 33850
9. Bulla Gastrobar – Winter Park
Spanish comfort food gets a contemporary twist at this lively gastrobar where small plates become the perfect solution for winter dining and sharing with friends.
Bulla brings authentic Spanish flavors to Central Florida with a menu full of tapas, entrees, and dishes designed for communal eating and good times.
Winter weather makes the hearty Spanish preparations taste even better, from rich croquetas to warming stews that showcase Iberian culinary traditions.
The energetic atmosphere and stylish decor create a dining environment that feels both upscale and welcoming, perfect for everything from casual dinners to special celebrations.
Sharing multiple small plates allows groups to sample a wide variety of flavors and find new favorites with each visit.
Their croquetas have achieved cult status among regulars, with creamy interiors and crispy exteriors that represent Spanish comfort food at its finest.
Patatas bravas, garlic shrimp, and grilled octopus round out a tapas selection that could easily become an entire meal on its own.
Winter Park’s location sits along Orlando Avenue near the popular Park Avenue district, making it easy to enjoy the surrounding area before or after your meal.
The restaurant’s commitment to authentic preparation methods and quality ingredients ensures every dish tastes as it should, transporting diners straight to Spain.
Address: 110 S Orlando Ave, Suite 7, Winter Park, FL 32789
10. The Ravenous Pig – Winter Park
Award-winning chefs have transformed this gastropub into one of Florida’s most celebrated restaurants, where winter menus showcase local ingredients prepared with impressive creativity and technique.
The Ravenous Pig helped lead the farm-to-table movement in Central Florida, building relationships with local farmers and purveyors to source the freshest seasonal ingredients available.
Winter brings heartier vegetables, game meats, and preparations that satisfy cold-weather cravings while maintaining the restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Menu changes frequently based on what’s available and inspiring the kitchen team, ensuring regular visitors always discover something new and exciting.
The gastropub concept means elevated pub fare with fine dining execution, resulting in dishes that feel both comforting and sophisticated simultaneously.
Their house-made charcuterie program has earned widespread acclaim, with cured meats and pâtés that showcase traditional techniques applied to Florida-sourced proteins.
Craft selections complement the food perfectly, with knowledgeable servers ready to guide diners through the impressive list of options.
The neighborhood atmosphere keeps things relaxed despite the restaurant’s impressive accolades and awards from national publications.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during winter when locals and visitors alike seek out this Winter Park treasure for memorable meals.
Address: 565 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
11. Anna Maria Oyster Bar – Bradenton
This Cortez Road institution has been serving Old Florida seafood classics for decades, becoming a beloved tradition for families seeking authentic coastal flavors during the winter season.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar captures the essence of casual Florida seafood dining, where fresh catches are fried to golden perfection or prepared simply to let natural flavors shine through.
Winter brings comfortable temperatures perfect for enjoying their sprawling outdoor seating areas while feasting on baskets piled high with crispy deliciousness.
The restaurant’s unpretentious approach and commitment to generous portions at fair prices have built a loyal following that spans generations.
Kids love the casual atmosphere and approachable menu, while adults appreciate the consistently good food and efficient service even during busy times.
Oysters arrive fresh and are prepared multiple ways, from raw on the half shell to steamed, baked, or fried depending on your preference.
The grouper sandwiches have achieved legendary status, with thick, flaky fish that overflows the bun in the best possible way.
Winter weekends see lines forming outside as locals and visitors wait patiently for tables, knowing the food is absolutely worth any wait.
This restaurant represents everything great about Florida seafood dining—fresh, affordable, delicious, and served with genuine hospitality that makes everyone feel like family.
Address: 6696 Cortez Road W, Bradenton, FL 34210