Jacksonville's Dining Scene Faces Change: Seven Bridges Closes After 26 Years

Orange Park, Florida, USA - The local food scene in Jacksonville recently faced a setback with the closure of Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery on June 24, 2023, after nearly three decades of operation. Known for its fantastic craft beers and a robust menu offering steaks, burgers, and pizza, the closure is reflective of broader challenges within the area’s dining culture. Jonathan Blair, the COO of Kelly Companies, attributed the shutdown to a lack of business, which raises questions about the health of local establishments after years of ups and downs during the pandemic.

This closure follows the earlier loss of Ragtime Tavern, which closed its doors just five months before Seven Bridges, after a remarkable 42 years serving the community. Kelly Companies, which acquired Seven Bridges along with several other brewery brands from SPB Hospitality in December 2022, is now reflecting on an unfortunate trend. The brewery landscape across the region hasn’t fared much better, with several other notable closures within just a year. Jekyll Brewing in Jacksonville Beach, Barley & Pie Brewing Co. in Fleming Island, and A1A Ale Works in St. Augustine are among the recent casualties. It’s a tough time for many beloved brands.

Industry Changes Ahead

Despite the losses, the future of Jacksonville’s dining scene does hold promise. According to the Downtown Investment Authority, over a dozen new restaurants are currently in various stages of construction or development as we head into 2025. The area is set to expand with fresh dining options, even as the city dealt with more restaurant closures than openings last year. Cheers to those stepping up to take their place!

The freshly opened Bagels R Us and Cinco de Mayo launched in January at 440 W. Adams St. and 301 E. Bay St., respectively, aiming to draw more local patrons. Additionally, new concepts like Five Points Tavern, now operating in Riverside, suggest a dynamic shift, bringing culinary creativity to spaces that have seen recent closures.

A Glimpse at New Ventures

The excitement doesn’t stop there! New eateries are popping up across the city. The Bank BBQ and Bakery is tantalizing taste buds with its unique bank-themed menu since its opening in late August. Meanwhile, Kazu Sushi Burrito, which started serving Hawaiian and Japanese-inspired poke burritos and bowls, has quickly become a local favorite since its September debut. The culinary scene is buzzing, with many fresh options coming soon, including 5 Loaves 2 Fish Cafe which is transitioning from food truck to brick-and-mortar at 1301 Riverplace Blvd.

• Upcoming Openings:
  • Bagels R Us
  • Cinco de Mayo
  • 5 Loaves 2 Fish Cafe (Tentative opening in October)

While the recent closures are disheartening, new openings signal a resilient community ready to embrace change and innovation. Whether it’s the methodical planning of the Downtown Investment Authority or the entrepreneurial spirit of local restaurateurs, there’s certainly something to be said for the determination of Jacksonville’s food scene. From BBQ joints to upscale dining experiences, the landscape is evolving rapidly, with an optimistic gaze toward what’s next.

As we cheer on the latest additions, let’s reflect on those we’ve lost, like Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery, and appreciate the flavors they brought to our tables. The cycle of dining is unending; while some may close, others will undoubtedly rise to fill the gaps. As always, the heart of our city’s culinary culture beats on!