The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar is located in the Shoppes of Avondale in historic Riverside, just minutes from downtown Jacksonville. Owner and one of Discovery Channel’s Great Chefs of the South, Richard Grenamyer, offers the freshest of available seafood’s in creative recipes, including a variety of oysters, great steaks and nightly specials. We feature light plates at lighter pricing for those with lighter appetite. Dine outside in our courtyard for an enjoyable experience. Our wine list is quite affordable with over 60 wines by the glass. We have two full bars, with an upstairs late night bar. We have Happy Hours every day from 3pm to 6pm. Dogs are welcome to our Yappy Hours Saturday and Sunday outside from 3pm to 6pm. Our monthly wine dinners are informal and fun. We are upscale casual and perfect for business or casual dinners, with friends, family or date night. We have private banquet facilities and specialize in affordable group business and rehearsal dinners.
"Scallops w/baby arugula were good. Prime rib was uninspiring along with bland mashed potatoes and really al dente green beans. The wine list screams for some affordable Italian representation. Good and affordable Chiantis, San Gioveses and Barolos abound and always complement almost any food. Try a couple of good pinot griogios too."
Dined on 6/16/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We found The Blue Fish by accident, and what a gem this restaurant turned out to be. We love the service and the food is GREAT!!! My husband love the Seafood Mac and Cheese and i love that they have light portions.
I highly recommend this restaurant."
Dined on 6/16/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"good service and excellent food in a loud/energetic space. The in-door dining room surrounds a lively bar and the early evening vibe can build to a deafening crescendo. The food is outstanding with mixtures of textures and flavors that grab your attention and hold it until the last bite."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Food was good, but we had a horrible waitress. She didn't write anything down, and of course, screwed up my wife's order. When she finally came back ten minutes later, my wife was practically told she was a liar. So after another ten minutes of us waiting on the rest of my wife's order, the food comes out, with the check. I guess that answers whether we are getting desert or whether I am getting another drink or not. I paid, but I still had to wait for my wife to eat the other half of her dinner. During that time, our waitress is standing in the middle of the dining room with her hands behind her back just stairing at us, like she can't wait for us to leave. Seems like a nice place, but because of the waitress, I see no need to go back."
Dined on 6/09/2013
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Blue Fish is the perfect place for dinner with friends. One of their rooms is quiet despite an energetic happy hour at the bar just outside the room's door. The special, horseradish crusted sea bass was cooked to perfection. The wine list never disappoints."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Enjoyed brunch there with a large group of 10 people but it was super noisy at noon. The acoustics in the place are lacking for some reason and it gets really loud in the back room. But other than that, things were great! Good food and the cold bar ahead of your meal that's serve yourself is a nice touch. Also bottomless drinks are only $5.00 additional to an entree."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We had a great time at Blue Fish this past Saturday night celebrating my husband & I's anniversary with some friends. Our server was Charlotte and she was absolutely one of the best servers we've ever experienced anywhere. Outstanding service from lots of people working there from keeping our water glasses full to explaining the menu, to taking pictures for us when we were finished with our meal. I ordered grouper and it tasted so fresh & cooked perfectly. My husband ordered the lamb chops and he said they were outstanding. During the whole meal you could hear everyone saying "Ummmmm, ummmm. That's when you know it's really really good. Every time we have been to Blue Fish the food & service has been excellent. Can't wait to go back !"
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"The happy hour lived up to its name. The truffle fries are a must try. The oysters on the half shell were awsome. Ask for Ruthie at the bar. She is the best. Great place for date night."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"My husband and I came in for dinner to celebrate our wedding anniversary. The noise level inside the restaurant was unbearable The furniture on the patio was made of wire and was wobbly. My husband was served the wrong drink. It started raining, and wWE had to move the furniture around. The rain covering leaked and my husband was getting wet. We were in NO WAY compensated for our meal. Yes, we had a very Unhappy Anniversary Dinner, at The Blue Fish Restaurant."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: kid-friendly
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We love this restaurant, the service is always top notch, the food is outstanding and it is close to our home. The offerings of smaller portions fits our way of life and nothing to take home. The staff seems so elated, including the chef that we elected to dine at their restaurant. One of the best secrets in Jacksonville."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"us with his imaginative specials while still offering our old favorites. The oyster trifecta and lobster mixed grill were superb.
However, I am disappointed that the lovely white tablecloths have been replaced by pieces of blue paper. This detracts from the otherwise classy ambience. I hope chef will reconsider this decision. I have so admired him for maintaining high standards in a time when they're declining all around us."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Went to Blue Fish for Mother's Day Brunch. Was an outstanding experience in every way. The food and service were superb. I strongly recommend it for all occasions. Will be back soon."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Our waiter, Tyler, was attentive without being obtrusive, which we truly appreciate. We have been to The Blue Fish several times and LOVE the Lobster Bisque which is absolutely FABULOUS!! We continue to return and we are completely satisfied each time we go."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"The food was great and the service good as well. One disappointing issue of four guest three ordered trigger fish yet you were out. When informed we chose another fish. As that order was being placed the waiter once again returned stating you now only had one order of the potatoes we ordered left. I have not experienced this before at the Blue Fish. Oddly enough as we were leaving the Seafoood delivery truck was blocking our departure.
Regards,"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, hot spot, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Blue Fish is one of Jacksonville`s Best Restaurants. The seafood is Stunning. Ambiance is great. It is the best place in town for special occasions. Very eclectic, up beat & delicious. Both our entrees & appetizers were Fabulous. The Thai Mussels & the orange zest/panko sea bass was the best dinner I`ve ever had. It was our 30th Anniversary. It was the best!!!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"The Sunday brunch is INCREDIBLE! My grandmother and i came thinking it was just going to be their isual linch menu (which is also very good). We were pleasantly surprised to find Subday brinch on. You start with a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary. Then comes the cold bar, included with every item on the menu. For brunch I had Lee's Bad A*$ Breakfast which was amazing. You simply must try this place for brunch!"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"This is my third time for The Blue Fish and I love the decor. My husband, who had never been before, took an instant dislike to it because the noise was deafening. Having the bar and the restaurant in such close proximity just does not work for anyone who wishes to have a conversation. The service was impeccable and the food was excellent. I would recommend that the restaurant serve the smaller portions on larger plates. There is plenty of food on the smaller portions, almost too much, but the presentation is less than optimal. Too much food on too small a plate.
For young people out for a good time, heaven!!!"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"WE went there for my birthday brunch. Everyone at the table raved about the food. i am sure that my friends will be taking their friends back to the restuarent."
Dined on 04/28/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We had made reservations and noted that it was for my wife's birthday. When we arrived, the table had been decorated with confetti, ribbon curls and special wine glasses. The service was excellent, and the food was very very good. Our kids really enjoyed the table decorations, since it made Mommy's birthday even more special."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We enjoyed our recent birthday celebration at The Blue Fish Restaurant. We ordered oysters on the half shell, steamed shrimp, escargot and pecan crusted mahi. The food was delicious and the service was excellent. Only let down was not having a complimentary birthday dessert that is usually offered at most restaurants of that caliber. We would return and recommend to a friend."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"A great spot in the Avondale section of Jacksonville. Excellent sea food menu with an abundant choice of appetizers. Street, indoor and courtyard dining to suit you needs. Busy happy hour crowd and a little noisy but quickly calms down. Definitely worth a try!"
Dined on 04/17/2013
2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We have enjoyed several meals at The Blue Fish where we are always treated well. We always share a bowl of Lobster Bisque (it is really excellent) but for me this was the best part of my meal on this trip. My spouse's grouper was excellent but I had the small plate Filet Mignon, which I found not quite up to par. It was prepared perfectly but was a bit chewy for this cut of meat."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"My only negative about Bluefish is the noise level. If you want a quiet setting where you can actually hear the person you are with, this would not be a good choice. If you are tired of listening to your significant other and you want EXCELLENT food try the Bluefish."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We visited this restaurant after a friend recommended it to us. Very nice bar and happy hour with reduced price drinks & appetizers. There was a courtyard area for dining, although we ate inside since it was raining. Service was great and the food was delicious. I had the shrimp & scallop mac & cheese and it was the best I've ever eaten. Shrimp & scallops were large and very fresh. I ordered the light plate since we had a fish dip appetizer during happy hour and it was plenty to eat. My husband had a fried fish entree which he said was very good. We will return next time we are in the area."
Dined on 04/14/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"The fish was very fresh and excellently prepared. It is a wonderful menu with lots to choose from. The server was very knowledgeable and friendly. We will definitely be back."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Interesting place, good food. They seemed to be inbetween two identities--a restaurant with imaginative food, and a baby boomer-age "meat market". We were there at 6 on a Tuesday to celebrate my birthday, and the bar was very busy. It was a little noisy so we sat in the outdoor area in back, which was OK. Having totally perfect 70-degree weather with a bluebird sky definitely helped. The food was good; we were a little surprised, though, that they allowed smoking. That was a bit of a turnoff, especially for my wife. It is what it is, tho. Again, nice food, and service that started of sloooow but caught up soon enough. I'm not sure we'd go back, though, esp. at $140 for a party of four with no alcohol consumed."
Dined on 04/02/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Quite a treat in the popular Avondale restaurant scene. This was my third visit, by far the best, will definitely be back soon. The "Ultimate Blackened Grill" entree was delightful, highly recommended. Service was prompt, attentive and unobtrusive - perfect. Though the ambient background sound level bordered on cacophony early on, it became much more subdued as the bar crowd thinned and was less obtrusive overall than other dining spots in the area. Do yourself a favor - go try it soon, you'll be happy you did."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2009
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"I'm a huge fan of shrimp & grits and have had that dish all over Charleston and Savannah. Blue Fish shrimp & grits are definitely better than any I've had in Savannah or Charleston. Worth the calories!"
Dined on 04/04/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We were first time visitors to the Blue Fish. The restaurant is lovely and offers patio dining which is really nice on a nice evening. There is very limited parking but someone is standing in the parking lot to direct you to a spot. Not sure what they do if the lots are filled but the attendant DID NOT look like an attendant. We appetizers were good. We both liked the crab fingers but the eggplant was a favorite. Scallops and shrimp over white mac and cheese was really good. Shrimp and scallops seasoned very well. The mac and cheese was bland but very good after adding salt and pepper. There was a party upstairs that was VERY VERY loud so if you are looking for a romantic and quiet dinner, this is not the place-at least when a party is book"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2007
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Dining room quite noisy when the front is closed but not as bad on a nice evening when the front is opened up to the street. Nice outdoor seating in front and in the courtyard."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We went for Easter Brunch. What a deal. The food was amazing. The price was very reasonable for all the food we were served. They were ready to seat us as soon as we arrived. We got there 10 minutes before our reservation. They provided my daughter with a special vegan meal at a very resonable price. We will make sure we make this a must on our dining list."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
+1point
1of1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Prime rib at a fish restaurant! Absolutely delicious, with the freshest vegetables. Charlotte our waitress is a mind reader and didn't overlook one thing. What a wonderful, relaxing, unrushed evening. Chef Richard cares about his customers and always stops by to check how things are. ( other restaurants should model this.). And of course Frank- always is the icing on the cake!"
Dined on 04/01/2013
2008
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"I am never disappointed with Blue Fish. The food is always delish, the service is always amazing!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"Great selection and great food. i enjoyed the specialty oysters, but my favorite and i will go back for more is just a dozen steamed gulf oysters, they are served on the half shell and the oysters are cut before served so all you do is pick them up with a fork and enjoy. Served with melted butter, horseradish, cocktail sauce, hot sauce and crackers. ususally you have to ask for all this at other places. At 15 dollars a dozen so worth it!!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2013
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
"We were a party of six. We were seated promptly. The server was slow bringing water and drinks. We were seated for nearly 20 mins before he brought bread. ( we had to ask for) the waiter was unattentive to filling water glasses. (One guest even poured ice from her empty sangria into her water glass. The food service was slow. My halibut was way overlooked and dry. I would have sent it back but it was late and everyone at the table would have been unconvinced. If the chef out that fish on my plate he knew it was overlooked. It was French quarter style and was nearly black. We were never offered a wine list. Would have got a bottle."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2009
Share:
0points
0of0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.