Tasty Legacies that Started in Jacksonville

Grab a seat - here are seven famous spots that got their start in Jax!

Jacksonville, Florida may be known for a lot of things, but did you know it’s also the birthplace of some popular restaurant chains that have expanded far beyond the city’s borders? Put on your bib and let’s “dig in” to these renowned chain restaurants that started in Jacksonville.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

You can’t pass up great barbecue in the South and Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q knows exactly how to do it right. Founder Lou Bono opened the first location in Jacksonville in 1949 and since then Bono’s has been serving mouth-watering pit barbecue at locations across Florida and even into Colorado. They cut everything to order and never take shortcuts, earning them a reputation as an award-winning favorite.

Burger King

That’s right! Burger King was founded in Jacksonville in 1954. This fast-food powerhouse started as a small Jacksonville-based fast food joint known as “Insta-Burger King.” Today, Burger King’s flame-grilled Whopper is an internationally known menu staple. While the chain’s headquarters moved to Miami, its roots in Jacksonville shaped the fast food landscape. Burger King’s locations range far and wide in over 100 countries and U.S. territories. And as a fun fact, every day over 11 million guests visit a Burger King somewhere in the world!

Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs was founded by Chris and Robin Sorensen, two brothers with firefighting backgrounds in 1994 in Jacksonville. The restaurant chain has since expanded across the U.S. and into other countries, earning a loyal following for its unique subs, community-centered approach and commitment to first responders. What started in a Jacksonville strip mall is an internationally recognized brand with more than 1,250 locations.

Larry’s Giant Subs

When it comes to giant subs, one name towers above the rest in Jacksonville: Larry’s Giant Subs. Founded in 1982 by Larry and Mitchell Raikes, Larry’s Giant Subs set out to create the largest and most delicious subs in the region. With its iconic oversized sandwiches, the company expanded to locations across the U.S. and while the size of their subs is legendary, it’s the fresh ingredients and dedication to customer satisfaction that keeps people coming back.

Maple Street Biscuit Company

Maple Street Biscuit Company was founded in Jacksonville in 2012 by Scott Moore and Gus Evans. The idea behind the restaurant was to serve elevated yet comforting Southern biscuits—freshly baked and paired with creative fillings. Maple Street quickly gained loyal customers thanks to its thoughtful menu, which includes everything from traditional biscuits with gravy to innovative options like the "Squawking Goat" featuring fried chicken, goat cheese and pepper jelly. With a growing number of locations and current ownership by Cracker Barrel, Maple Street is bringing Southern comfort to the masses.

Metro Diner

If you’re craving classic diner food with a modern twist Metro Diner is the place to be. Founded in 1992 in Jacksonville by the Davoli family, Metro Diner has a loyal following for its breakfasts, especially the “Famous Chicken and Waffle”. From humble beginnings, Metro Diner has grown into a national chain with locations in several states. Despite its success, the focus on quality ingredients and staying true to their roots has remained steadfast.

V Pizza

V Pizza has carved out its niche in the world of pizza chains. Founded in 2014 in Jacksonville by Paul Scott, Kris Williams and Mike Turner, V Pizza focuses on the Neapolitan pizza tradition, offering hand-crafted pies with high-quality ingredients. What sets V Pizza apart is its commitment to authenticity, using a traditional wood-burning brick oven to cook pizzas to perfection. Each V Pizza location is adjoined by a cocktail bar so you can enjoy a handcrafted drink with your meal. With locations across the southeast, V Pizza continues to grow.

Jacksonville has long been a place where great ideas turn into culinary success stories. Whether it’s fresh-baked biscuits, flame-grilled burgers or oversized subs, these restaurant chains that started in Jacksonville show the city’s impact on the restaurant industry. It’s clear that the spirit of Jacksonville’s food scene isn’t just local—it’s taking the world by storm, one delicious bite at a time. If you're ever in Jacksonville, be sure to check out these local gems and taste the legacy of the city.

Author

Lauren

Local Expert

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