JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – If you’re looking for an elevated culinary experience with amazing views in Jacksonville, look no further — Cowford Chophouse is the best fine dining restaurant in the area.
The best part? We have the evidence to support our claim.
Cowford Chophouse was voted the best fine dining restaurant in the area in our 2025 JaxBest contest, beating out fellow finalists:
All four were nominated by our News4JAX Insiders, who then picked their favorite from the Top 4 to crown the best fine dining restaurant in the 904.
So what sets Cowford Chophouse apart from the rest? Its history, for starters.
In 1901, a devastating fire swept through Downtown Jacksonville. The Cowford Chophouse building opened in 1902, making it one of the earliest symbols of Jacksonville’s rebirth.
According to the restaurant’s website, Jacques Klempf, a Jacksonville native and owner of the Cowford Chophouse, purchased the building at 101 E. Bay St. at auction in 2014.
The building had suffered significant structural damage from years of neglect, but Klempf saw potential — not just for the historic landmark, but for its surrounding area.
Photo: Cowford Chophouse
From exquisite soups and prime cuts of steak to delicious desserts and handcrafted cocktails, Cowford Chophouse offers a unique experience to everyone who walks through its doors.
The restaurant is open Tuesday to Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
To learn more about Cowford Chophouse, visit this website.
A special thanks to our JAXBest sponsor, Farah & Farah!
Click here to read the official campaign rules.
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