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#DTJax: Folio Best of JAX 2016

By DVI Intern, Je’Nisa Waugh

Folio Weekly has released their Best of Jax 2016, with some of the best dining, shopping, arts and entertainment venues right here in #DTJax.

… Folio Weekly Magazine brought forth this Best of Jax, a new concept.  Now we are engaged in a great readers’ poll, proving clearly this Best of, more so than any knock-off or pretender, can long endure.  Today, you meet the winners in this great issue…”  -Folio Weekly

 

myth
Photo Credit: Movement Magazine

1. Best New Nightclub: Myth Nightclub | 333 E. Bay St.   

This nightclub and bar brings something fresh, new and exciting to the Jacksonville area.  Showcasing local artists and specializing in uniquely designed craft cocktails. Upscale and inviting giving an experience in sight, sound and indulgences, allowing locals to enjoy the nightlife, as it was meant to be experienced.

 “Myth keeps it current and cool with cutting-edge, tasty-cocktails, hip DJs, weekly events like Sanctuary Saturdays and EDM College…” -Folio Weekly

2. Best Live Music Club: Mavericks Live | 2 Independent Dr.

Located upstairs of The Jacksonville Landing, Mavericks is the largest and premier concert venue & nightclub.  Mavericks caters to bringing a variety of artists from various genres such as hip hop, metal, rock and country.

“Mavericks Live is making great strides in shedding its “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” image with an increasing run of killer concerts.” -Folio Weekly

 

djs

 3. Best Hair Salon: Daniel James Salon | 45 W. Bay St.

If you’re looking for a salon experience that exceeds above and beyond, the Daniel James salon is the place to be. Located in a beautiful historic building the salon features an urban energy and a relaxed atmosphere. “Creating inner beauty that is a reflection of how we treat you” is their mission statement. Daniel James Salon specializes in personal design and a passion for creating an experience that exceeds expectations.

“With a skilled, friendly staff on board, this truly indie and hip cuttery does is all, from a quick lunchtime trim to a complete color change and makeover.” -Folio Weekly

chamlinsoutside 4. Best Local Bookstore: Chamblin Bookmine/ Chamblin’s Uptown | 215 N. Laura St.

Looking for a good read? Whether you’re on the Westside or in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, Chamblin’s has a great selection of books. They have been selling books new, used and rare in Jacksonville for four decades. From the floor to the ceiling, Chamblin’s has an endless series of shelves crammed full of paperbacks, hardcovers, and everything in between.  

“Chamblin Books remains the one-stop place to spend an hour (or day) browsing through untold thousands of new and used books.” -Folio Weekly

5. Best Health Club/Gym: YMCA | 50 N. Laura St.

The YMCA has always been dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected and secure children, adults, families and communities.  The YMCA has been serving Americans for over 100 years.  Today the YMCA has several membership facilities, a charter elementary school, school based child care sites and development campuses.  Though they continue to grow and evolve, their mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body, continues to be the driving force for their cause.

“The YMCA is far more than just a gym. It’s a leading nonprofit committed to building healthy lifestyles in our community.” -Folio Weekly

arts-market

6. Best Farmers Market: Riverside Arts Market | 715 Riverside Ave.

Our neighbors, Riverside Arts Market has served as a popular community-gathering place and is arguably the most unique arts and entertainment venue in Northeast Florida. Located under the Fuller Warren Bridge, this destination attracts thousands of visitors and is the storefront for many artisans, food artists and farmers as they sell their products and provide great family entertainment every weekend.

     “… the readers have again voted Riverside Arts Market (RAM) as the Best Farmers Market in the 904. Check it out under the Fuller Warren bridge rain or shine.” -Folio Weekly

block-skate

7. Best Skate Shop: The Block Skate Supply Shop | 537 Park St.

Talk about doing what you love, The Block Skate Supply Shop is deeply rooted to skating and services the Jacksonville Metro area.

“Considered a kind of head quarters and tribal center for local skaters… The Block Skate Supply Shop maintains a total indie/ DIY vibe, proving that skating is not a crime – it’s nearly a mystic devotion.” -Folio Weekly

8. Best Neighborhood Bar: Dos Gatos | 123 E. Forsyth St.

Downtown Jacksonville’s only genuine cocktail lounge, located directly across from the historic Florida Theatre, you’ll find the art of the cocktail on full display nightly by a handpicked staff of drink making experts.

“…this year FW readers gave the craft cocktail lounge with locations in Downtown Jacksonville and Downtown St. Augustine four accolades with bragging rights.” -Folio Weekly

burrito

9. Best Burrito: Burrito Gallery | 21 E. Adams St.

Founded in early 2005, Burrito Gallery opened up in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville.  It all started with a crazy idea to make the best burritos, tacos and quesadillas, make the tastiest drinks, pour great beer and provide a space for local artists to jam out.  This crazy idea got Burrito Gallery where it is today by serving and being the best around town.

“For the best burrito in town – sober or not – Burrito Gallery has you covered.” -Folio Weekly

spliffs-gastropub

 10. Best Meal under $10: Spliff’s Gastropub | 15 Ocean St.

“With a commitment to quality,Spliff’s Gastropub serves up bold flavors to the Downtown Jacksonville dining landscape. Offering a unique variation on “Gourmet Comfort Food”. The menu aims to have a little something for everyone and the bar features a wall of rotating taps with craft and local beers, select wines, as well as daily events to entertain you while you dine.” -Spliff’s Gastropub

“… our readers know that when they want to fatten their guts without bleeding their wallets, they hit Downtown for lunch and grab a cheap, yet tasty bite, at Spliffs’ Gastropub.” -Folio Weekly

 11. Best Steak: Ruth’s Chris Steak House1201 Riverplace Blvd 

“A good steak speaks for itself, so what is there to say really about Ruth’s Chris steakhouse?”  Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse provides a high-class dining experience, famous for its fine, custom-aged midwestern beef, Ruth’s Chris has an extensive menu full of delectable delights.

“Their thing is bringing out your steak on a plate so hot the meat is still cooking when its’s served. This is a wonderful thing, and the food is truly exquisite…” -Folio Weekly

 12. Best Thai: Indochine | 21 E. Adams St.

Located in Downtown Jacksonville, Indochine is casual dining in an upscale atmosphere at it’s best. Indochine provides an authentic Southeast Asian and Thai cuisine served in a beautiful atmosphere along with beautiful buddhist decorations that give a hip downtown feel to it.

“Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles, oh my! For six years in a row, this bomb-diggity spot has dominated Best Thai.” -Folio Weekly