By Dylan Bailey
When it comes to dining experiences that seamlessly blend food, ambiance, and a unique coastal lifestyle, few places can rival Salt Life Food Shack on Amelia Island. This eatery is not just a restaurant; it’s a testament to the beach-loving culture that gave rise to its parent brand, Salt Life.
Salt Life Food Shack originated in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. The restaurant has become a poster child of the coastal lifestyle, providing an authentic beach dining experience. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, stepping into Salt Life Food Shack feels like an adventure in itself.
As soon as you set foot on the premises, you’re greeted by the inviting glow of Tiki torches, the soothing sound of waves crashing on the beach, and the relaxing beach ambiance that envelops the place. This immersive environment is amplified indoors with a beautiful display featuring the Salt Life logo and aquatic elements, creating a genuinely beach-like vibe. The restaurant also hosts live music performances, adding to the overall charm.
The menu at Salt Life Food Shack reflects its beachside location, with a heavy emphasis on seafood. However, it also caters to those who prefer land-based delicacies, making it a versatile dining destination.
The seafood selection is exhaustive, to say the least. From fresh oysters and crab to sushi, street tacos, and fish fillets, seafood lovers are spoiled for choice. They also serve a delectable beach boil and a variety of poke bowls.
Salt Life offers an array of dishes for those who prefer non-seafood options. You can choose from pan-seared chicken pasta, skirt steak, chicken tenders, burgers, and chicken sandwiches. The menu also features a section called “mainland,” offering an assortment of land-based dishes.
I started with the queso served with tortilla chips, which did not disappoint. The queso has a thick, gloopy consistency (never thought I’d use that word in a sentence), ensuring it stays on your chips without dripping. And it’s infused with red onions and tomatoes, adding a delectable flavor that’s simply irresistible.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the chili-lime mahi. This dish features a lightly blackened mahi fillet served with a unique white rum and coconut cream sauce. Topped with a chili-lime tomatillo salsa, this dish is a must-try for fish lovers.
The Big Wave burger is a fantastic choice for those who prefer a good ol’ burger. The burger is served with smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, and a special shack sauce. What sets this burger apart, however, are the avocado fries. They’re deep-fried slices of avocado that add a unique texture and flavor to the burger.
The ambiance at Salt Life is undoubtedly one of its biggest draws. Whether you choose to dine indoors with live music or outdoors with the Tiki torches and beach winds, the experience is nothing short of magical. They even have an open dining area on the upper level with more live music and stunning views.
Salt Life Food Shack on Amelia Island is a must-visit with its extensive menu, fantastic ambiance, and commitment to providing a truly immersive beach dining experience. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a burger lover, or someone who enjoys a good dining experience, this restaurant has something for everyone. The next time you’re in the area, make sure to tick this off your checklist.
Salt Life Food Shack
Website: www.saltlifefoodshack.com/fernandina-beach
Address: 17 N. Fletcher Ave., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Hours: Sun.-Thurs. (11 a.m.-10 p.m.), Fri.-Sat. (11 a.m.-11 p.m.)
Love this place. Especially since I can go during the week now that I am retired. Parking can be a challenge on weekends during the summer.
I’ve eaten here once. Personally, I feel that there are far better options that aren’t « chain » type restaurants that are better to support. In my opinion, the local economy would have better been supported had the county done more to help keep the old water slides that were previously in that location. If you never experienced THOSE, I’m sorry you weren’t here before the island became exploited. Sometimes change isn’t always for the better.
Has the service improved? I haven’t been there in a few years because of poor service. Hard to get a refill on my beer when the bartender spends 15 minutes at the other end talking to friends. I know my empty glass was visible……two different visits with the same inattention to work were enough for me.
The “other salty” on the river at front street has outstanding service, reasonable prices, friendly staff and is not a chain or franchise.