An Insider’s Guide to One-of-A-Kind Dining Experiences along the Treasure Coast

exterior of hudsons on the river

October 4, 2022 | Read Time: 7 minutes

Renowned for its fresh ocean dishes and mouthwatering coastal cuisines, Florida’s Treasure Coast is a food lover’s paradise. This tropical locale along the east coast is home to some of the top restaurants, with award-winning dining options for every time of day and every discerning palate. Here’s a glimpse into just a few of the incredible dining experiences that make the Treasure Coast irreplaceable.

New & Noteworthy Restaurants

plate of food from stuart's cafe martier
Image Courtesy of Café Martier
For farm-to-table favorites, Colab Kitchen in Stuart features everything from vegan-friendly flatbreads to lemon ricotta pancakes and waffles. The open-air backyard area is a favored spot to dine, with a patio area, lawn games, and plenty of places where people can spread out, lounge, and enjoy good food. Colab Kitchen also features its own fresh market to shop for local produce, house-made bread, pastries, and more.
Hudson’s on the River is a brand-new restaurant designed to bring friends and family together in a relaxed atmosphere. This trendy waterfront restaurant combines a unique location underneath the Roosevelt bridge with tropical design flair. Hudson’s is known for its fresh seafood and sushi, along with a unique roster of mixed drinks.
Stringer’s Tavern and Oyster Bar in Stuart provides a flavorful menu of fresh oysters, classically reimagined seafood dishes, hand-crafted cocktails, and the area’s largest selection of rum. This restaurant is also very fond of the historical influence of boat builders and surrounds guests with the city’s unique history.
Located at the Post Office Arcade in Downtown Stuart, Café Martier is an eclectic modern European café that features a wine garden, breezeway piano bar, and a speakeasy. This vintage chic eatery serves everything from brunch omelets and waffles to pan-seared scallops and hand-cut ribeye for dinner.

Dining Landmarks

Established in 1991, Luna Italian Cuisine is a restaurant icon within Downtown Stuart. This casual Italian restaurant is known for its specialty pizzas, and irresistible homemade garlic knots.
Located at the edge of the Riverwalk, Stuart Boathouse boasts views of the St. Lucie River from every seat. This serene Stuart centerpiece is open seven days a week, complete with a mouthwatering American-style menu that will make any visitor a regular.
Jan’s Place in Jensen Beach is a family owned and operated restaurant that has been serving delicious food for over 20 years. The restaurant is open seven days a week serving breakfast, brunch, and delicious homemade pastries.

Best Private Club Dining

For a night at home, this private club community offers three restaurants ranging from formal waterfront dining to a la carte casual fair. The Grille Room is a favorite casual spot for lunch, dinner, and drinks in a casual, comfortable setting. The Dockside Pavilion is one of the favorite pub venues among members, hosting a la carte dining while enjoying live music, cocktails, and watching the beautiful sunset colors reflect on the estuary waters. Finally, as more formal dining venue, the elegant Riverview Dining Room hosts the Club’s gala affairs, with a variety of dining areas to suit any mood.

Hidden Gems

steak plate closeup
Located in Stuart, South Fork Kitchen and Bar focuses on a farm-to-table approach, sourcing only the freshest local ingredients available. This casual atmosphere is known for its vast wine selection, and one of the best burgers in town.
Talk: House provides an intimate and relaxed dining experience, with an innovative menu focused on the freshest ingredients. Popular menu items include the cashew-crusted salmon and specialty New Zealand rack of lamb.
Located in a cozy Key West-style house just outside of Downtown Stuart, Casa Bella provides creative and authentic Italian cuisines. This family-owned restaurant focuses on homemade food and pasta using the only finest ingredients.
Since 2009, The Chef’s Table has been pairing bold New American and Italian cuisines with a friendly atmosphere. Understated yet elegant, the main dining room is centered around a family heirloom, a well-loved table that seats up to six. The restaurant’s executive chef creates seasonal menus that showcase handmade pastas, the freshest local seafood, choice meats, and peak of the season vegetables.

Mouthwatering Menus

plate of food from district table
Image Courtesy of The District Table
Located in the heart of Downtown Stuart, The Gafford is a sophisticated bistro offering high-end American cuisine. This family-owned and operated restaurant is known for its exceptional fresh fish, beef, and daily specials. The Gafford has also won Open Table’s Diner’s Choice Award four years in a row.
District Table & Bar in Port Salerno, Florida, is a seasonally driven restaurant with Southern roots and a laid-back atmosphere. From small plates meant for sharing to the freshest Florida seafood and Prime grade beef, The District Table fulfills every craving.
Just outside Palm City’s limits, Oak & Ember is the latest concept in new steak dinner restaurants by Kyle Greene. This steakhouse is known for its delectable meats, craft cocktails, fine wines, and an ambiance that sets the tone for a memorable evening. They also have a second location that will be opening in Downtown Stuart this fall.

Waterfront Dining

table setting outdoors at kyle g's
Image Credits Courtesy of Kyle G's
Overlooking the Saint Lucie River and the Roosevelt Bridge, TideHouse is the perfect place for food, drinks, and beautiful views. With indoor and outdoor seating available, this restaurant provides a mix of Florida seafood, shareable plates, and a creative cocktail menu.
As a Port Salerno icon, The Twisted Tuna is the city’s largest waterfront restaurant, offering 10,000 square feet of indoor dining on two floors – each with panoramic views of the St. Lucie River. Nightly live entertainment, a diverse food and drink menu, and great views make this spot a favorite among locals.
Located on Hutchinson Island, Kyle G’s is an award-winning restaurant boasting spectacular ocean views. Open for every meal, this seaside dining locale has created an amazing menu from sunrise breakfast and brunch to fresh oysters, seafood, and steaks.
Sailor’s Return is a favored spot for boaters, offering 930 feet of docks right in front of the restaurant. This waterfront restaurant provides guests with a wide variety of food from seafood and steaks to classic American fare. For a quick cup of coffee or a sweet treat after dinner, Gilbert’s Coffee Bar is also located in the same plaza.