Amelia Island, Florida offers a vibrant food scene that combines Southern, coastal, and seafood influences. Wondering which dishes you’ll encounter during a visit? Here are some of our favorites!
Shrimp and Grits: This iconic Southern dish is a staple in Amelia Island’s cuisine. It typically consists of sautéed or grilled shrimp served over a bed of creamy, stone-ground grits. The dish is often flavored with bacon, onions, and topped with sauce.
Mayport Shrimp: These shrimp are locally caught in the fishing village of Mayport, known for their freshness and sweet flavor, Mayport shrimp are often showcased in dishes like shrimp boils, shrimp scampi, or fried shrimp baskets.
Lowcountry Boil: Also known as “frogmore stew” or “shrimp boil,” this communal dish is a popular choice for gatherings and events. It typically features a combination of fresh shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, potatoes, and seasonings. The flavorful mix is then served family-style, often spread across a table covered with newspaper. Don’t forget the napkins!
Amelia Island Crab Cakes: As a coastal destination, Amelia Island offers delicious crab cakes made with local blue crab meat. These crab cakes are usually prepared with a blend of spices, breadcrumbs, and mayonnaise, and then pan-fried until golden brown. They are often topped with a tangy remoulade sauce or a squeeze of lemon.
Grouper Sandwich: Amelia Island’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes it an ideal place to enjoy fresh seafood. The grouper sandwich is a popular local favorite, featuring a grilled, blackened, or fried filet of grouper served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
She-Crab Soup: This creamy and rich soup is a regional specialty made with blue crab meat, crab roe, cream, and a blend of seasonings. It offers a delightful depth of flavor, and is often garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of sherry.
Key Lime Pie: While Key Lime Pie is traditionally associated with the Florida Keys, it’s a dessert that can be found in many coastal areas of Florida, including Amelia Island. This tangy and pie is made with a graham cracker crust and a key lime juice and condensed milk filling. It’s the perfect ending to a seafood feast!
All of these dishes and more are waiting for you here in Fernandina Beach once you book a luxurious stay with us at The Williams House.
