Starke, nestled in the heart of my home state, might be small, with a touch of just over 6000 folks.
But let me tell you—its charm is nothing short of colossal.
Far removed from the flashy frills of high-profile city life, Starke beckons with its modest allure.
It’s a treasure trove of history, parks, and lakes that always leave a lasting impression.
But here’s the real Southern secret: the cuisine.
Starke’s food scene, a delightful palette from cozy diners to adventurous Asian destinations, can satiate any wandering foodie’s appetite.
I’ve tasted the magic at every corner, and as a Florida local, I speak from experience.
Mapping out a weekend getaway or just breezing through?
So, grab this surefire list of the best restaurants in Starke.
Keep this article close, and your culinary journey through town will surely be a breeze.
Best Restaurants In Starke, FL Compared
Ready to ignite your taste buds?
Look into our handpicked top choices for the top restaurants in Starke.
Editor’s Choice
Call Street Cafe
Call Street Cafe, opened in 2015 by Chef James Jackson and his wife, strives to bring their delicious, one-of-a-kind cuisine to Downtown Starke.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 3/5
#2nd Best Choice
Sonny’s BBQ
Sonny’s BBQ in Starke is a part of the well-known barbecue restaurant chain founded in 1968 that specializes in smoked meats, as well as sides and salads.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
Tony and Al’s Deli
Tony and Al’s Deli is a hole-in-the-wall Italian restaurant specializing in traditional Italian dishes from pasta to pizza.
- Taste & Variety: 3/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Here are the top 11 restaurants in Starke open right now.
1. Call Street Cafe (Editor’s Choice)
111 W Call St
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 368-9922
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Call Street Cafe, opened in 2015 by Chef James Jackson and his wife, strives to bring their delicious, one-of-a-kind cuisine to Downtown Starke.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 3/5
Pros
- Cozy atmosphere: The cafe has a warm and inviting ambiance, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends or family.
- Fresh and local ingredients: It takes pride in using fresh and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, enhancing the taste and elevating the overall dining experience.
Cons
- Seating: The cafe’s popularity can lead to limited seating during peak hours, which might result in wait times or difficulties finding a table.
- Pricing: Some customers may find the prices at Call Street Cafe slightly higher than other dining options in the area.
Why It Made The List
Leading the list of the most popular restaurants to try in Starke, Call Street Cafe prides itself on made-from-scratch comfort food.
To provide the greatest quality goods in North Florida, they source as locally as possible.
They focus their offerings on classics with a modern twist.
If you’re looking for the safest place to have your first meal in Starke, drop by Call Street Cafe for a no-fail breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
Popular Dishes to Try
For a filling and delicious breakfast, try some of their customer favorites!
The Breakfast Panini, which comprises two eggs, cheddar, garlic mayo, and bacon, is always well-presented and bursting with great flavors.
Stop by for lunch and sample the Jerk Chicken Wrap which is loaded with tasty veggies.
Very healthy, too!
2. Sonny’s BBQ
230 S Temple Ave
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-8840
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Sonny’s BBQ in Starke is a part of the well-known barbecue restaurant chain founded in 1968 that specializes in smoked meats, as well as sides and salads.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Generous portions: The hearty servings make it an excellent choice for individuals with hearty appetites or those looking for value for their money.
- Good value for money: Considering the food quality and the portion sizes, many patrons find Sonny’s BBQ to offer good value for money.
Cons
- Service inconsistencies: Some customers have reported inconsistencies in service, ranging from slow service during peak hours to occasional mistakes with orders.
- Limited vegetarian options: As a BBQ-focused restaurant, the menu may not offer a wide range of vegetarian or vegan options.
Why It Made The List
Need a dependable place for your barbeque fix?
Sonny’s BBQ offers the best barbeques in the city and is consistently well-loved by customers.
Being one of the best-rated restaurants in Starke, this place is a haven for barbeque lovers looking for quick meals.
Popular Dishes to Try
Satisfy your cravings for grilled anything as you explore the favorites on their menu.
For a full-packed lunch, the Redneck Egg Rolls, loaded with barbecue and coleslaw and wrapped in a crispy handheld crust with dipping sauces, is a must-try.
Order the Sonny’s Sampler Platter, too, which includes 4 different proteins, slaw, garlic bread, and homemade baked beans.
3. Tony and Al’s Deli
200 E Call St
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 368-0032
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Tony and Al’s Deli is a hole-in-the-wall Italian restaurant specializing in traditional Italian dishes from pasta to pizza.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 3/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Freshly made sandwiches: Tony and Al’s Deli are known for their freshly made sandwiches with quality ingredients, offering a variety of options.
- Affordable prices: The deli is often praised for its reasonable and affordable prices.
Cons
- Operating hours: The deli’s operating hours may not suit everyone’s schedule and might not be open during evenings or late nights.
- Waiting times: Depending on the time of day, there might be a wait for your order to be prepared, especially during peak hours.
Why It Made The List
Considered one of the top Starke restaurants, this charming little eatery serves some of the best Italian dishes in the city.
The food quality is excellent and authentic, and the restaurant’s atmosphere is comfortable for the diners.
They also offer some traditional American bites as easy options.
Popular Dishes to Try
For a wonderful Italian meal, we recommend a casual pizza lunch or dinner.
Their pizzas are incredibly cheesy, and the toppings are fresh and generous.
The subs are a crowd favorite, too! Sample their Meatball Parmigiana Sub, which comprises meatballs, mozzarella, and marinara.
Need something reminiscent of fine dining?
Have a plate of their delicious pasta, particularly the Ravioli Carbonara with peas, bacon, garlic, and parmigiana in a creamy white Alfredo sauce.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Carpet Inn Starke
Also See:
Restaurants in St Pete Beach
Places to Eat in St Augustine
4. Laredo Mexican Restaurant
800 N Temple Ave
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 966-2323
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Opened in 2010, Laredo Mexican Restaurant focuses on authentic, homemade Mexican dishes.
They also serve Mexican beer to complement your meal.
Why It Made The List
Fabulous, fresh, made-to-order Mexican food.
The people behind this restaurant take great pride in their food, which is of unrivaled quality and freshness.
Wondering where to eat in Starke that won’t disappoint your cravings?
Try Laredo Mexican Restaurant and let your senses travel without the hassles.
You’ll also enjoy the colorful decor around, with hand-painted walls, booths, and chairs reminiscent of real Mexico.
Popular Dishes to Try
For a realistic Mexican meal, sample the steak or chicken Fajitas, a plate full of chicken Quesadillas, and pair it with a side of Chile Relleno, which is stuffed chili pepper.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Waldo Inn & Suites
5. Grannies Restaurant (Also Known As Grannie’s Country Cookin’)
367 N Temple Ave
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-5810
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Grannies Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant specializing in classic comfort food – exactly like what grandparents used to make.
Why It Made The List
Grannie’s Restaurant is one of the Starke eats that every traveler should experience.
It has been a favorite amongst locals, and the most authentic roadside eatery you’ll find.
This is unmistakably a hangout for every Starke native.
The reason?
They offer some of the best food in Starke at a reasonable price, and they serve excellent coffee.
The wait service is pleasant, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the food is tasty and quickly served.
Popular Dishes to Try
Do yourself a favor and come on a Sunday, a day for “all you can eat chicken”.
Hands down the tastiest and juiciest fried chicken for the locals.
The fried pork chops are also a must-try, and their breakfast items are amazing, too.
Nothing here is less than superb.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Carpet Inn Starke
6. Powell’s Dairy Freeze
1212 N Temple Ave
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-6567
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Powell’s Dairy Freeze is ice cream and frozen yogurt shop with casual outdoor seating and also serving some classic American fast food.
Why It Made The List
Ever wanted to go back to simpler times as kids when going out is a treat and not the norm?
Visit Powell’s Dairy Freeze for a throwback in time.
It serves the yummiest ice cream and greasiest burgers for customers to indulge and enjoy a quick bite.
Their location is very accessible too, and you can either eat in your car or sit outside and enjoy the day with your family.
Popular Dishes to Try
For a fun and delicious meal that’ll wake up the kid in you, order their Grilled Cheese or Fish Sandwich and pair them with a large milkshake.
For an interesting combo, order a side of french fries and dip them in your soft-serve.
We promise a memorable dining experience.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Waldo Inn & Suites
7. The Downtown Grill
301 E Call St
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-9253
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The Downtown Grill, located in historic Starke downtown, specializes in steaks, burgers, and other American favorites served in a relaxed ambiance with sports on TV.
Why It Made The List
Looking for a flexible birthday venue filled with lively entertainment?
The Downtown Grill is full of the coolest amenities.
They have a full-service bar, an extra space for events, and catering, and also feature live music for a memorable party experience.
Besides great food, the service is also outstanding, and the staff is attentive to your needs.
The Downtown Grill is truly one of the best restaurants Starke has to offer.
Drop by the Downtown Grill for a fun stay in town.
Popular Dishes to Try
The Shotgun Shrimp and Ahi tuna are definite must-try, but the entire menu is full of tasty appetizers and entrees.
For main, the Ribeye steak is an excellent choice for a satisfying and tasty dinner.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Carpet Inn Starke
Also See:
St Petersburg Restaurants
Best Restaurants in Spring Hill
Best Restaurants in Dade City
8. Gui Lin Chinese Restaurant
1371 S Walnut St # 1300
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-5700
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Opened 18 years ago, Gui Lin Chinese Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant specializing in Chinese fast food.
Why It Made The List
Known to offer some of the best Chinese food, this little restaurant is consistent in its service over the years.
They’re popular with the customers for their fast and friendly accommodation and great home-cooked meals.
If you’re a traveler looking for restaurants near you, or a local with Asian heritage, you’ll appreciate the authentic style Gui Lin offers.
Popular Dishes to Try
Go crazy with the servings and have a big dinner with your family or loved ones.
Try the Orange Chicken, Mongolian Beef, and Shrimp Fried Rice, and have a big plate of Tofu with Vegetables or the Shrimp with Lobster Sauce.
The flavors are all complementary and everything off the menu is sure to impress.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Waldo Inn & Suites
Related: Best Things to Do in Starke, FL
9. Sonic Drive-In
825 N Temple Ave
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 368-0042
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Sonic Drive-In is a fast drive-through service in Starke by Sonic, a burger chain with over 3500 branches nationwide.
Why It Made The List
In a hurry and don’t have the time for a proper sit-down dinner?
Drive-by Sonic’s for your choice of casual American fast food from burgers to wraps.
They offer breakfast items, sandwich items, and kids’ meals.
Popular Dishes to Try
For a quick bite, order a signature Sonic Cheeseburger, or try something new like the Garlic Butter Bacon Burger.
Pair it with a cherry or a blueberry Slush for a fast yet complete meal on the go.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Carpet Inn Starke
10. Tip Thai Cuisine
127 E Call St,
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-8448
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Established in 2016, Tip Thai Cuisine offers healthy Thai food made using original recipes for a guaranteed authentic meal every time.
Why It Made The List
Searching for some good restaurants in Starke with healthy, clean, and quality food?
Tip Thai’s dishes are incredibly fresh, and the restaurant’s atmosphere is simple, spacious, and laid-back.
If you’re a foodie who needs a go-to place for Thai cuisine, Tip Thai is dependable and will offer excellent services whenever you dine.
Popular Dishes to Try
Start your dining experience with their Pad Thai, a stir-fried rice noodle dish with eggs, green onions, carrots, and bean sprouts.
Continue with your choice of spicy Curry that truly represents Thai cuisine.
For desserts, you will never go wrong with a serving of Mango and Sweet Sticky Rice!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Waldo Inn & Suites
11. Cedar River Seafood
900 S Walnut St
Starke, FL 32091
(904) 964-8282
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Established in 1977 and named after its first location by the Cedar River, Cedar River Seafood is a casual seafood restaurant offering a wide variety of seafood options in a spacious dining area.
Why It Made The List
We’d definitely say this business is a catch, with delicious cuisine, generous portions, friendly staff, and fair costs.
If you’re hunting for fresh seafood within the area, this place is a must for your seafood shopping.
They offer a tremendous choice of fish and all can be fried, broiled, or blackened.
With just a few places offering great seafood selection, Cedar River Seafood is definitely one of the best restaurants in Starke for its unique and fresh dishes.
Popular Dishes to Try
Start with the crab-stuffed fried mushrooms, which are consistently delicious.
Then, get the Big Mate’s Platter, which includes shrimp, oysters, scallops, flounder, and fries, as well as a crab cake.
The fried shrimp batter is delicious, with a tinge of lemon flavor.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Carpet Inn Starke
Also See:
Restaurants in Tallahassee, FL
Restaurants in North Port, FL
Dining Guide
Comparing Restaurants: Which One Is Right For You?
When it comes to dining in Starke, there are a few places that truly feel like home.
Being a Florida local, I’ve had the pleasure of diving deep into the culinary magic of this town.
The first stop is the Call Street Cafe.
Walking in is like stepping into your grandmother’s kitchen—if she had a hip, modern touch.
My favorite memory is when I tried their veggie omelet.
It was fluffy, filled with fresh greens, and just the right hint of cheese.
It felt like a warm hug on a plate.
But for days when I crave some smoky, Southern vibes, Sonny’s BBQ is my go-to.
Drenching your pulled pork in their signature sauce is pure bliss.
Then there’s Tony and Al’s Deli.
It’s the epitome of the perfect sandwich haven.
One bite of their classic turkey and cheese, and I was instantly teleported to the streets of Italy.
But if I had to compare?
Call Street offers a personal, intimate experience, while Sonny’s gives that authentic, hearty BBQ flavor.
Tony and Al’s?
It’s where Europe meets Florida.
Depending on what you’re in the mood for, each has its charm.
Starke has a plethora of tastes to explore, and for a foodie like you and me, it’s a delight every single time.
So, which will it be for you?
How I Picked The Restaurants
Choosing the top restaurants in Starke wasn’t a haphazard affair.
Not only have I personally experienced the flavors and ambiance of these spots.
I’ve also done my homework by chatting with locals, swapping stories with passing travelers, and digging deep into online chatter.
And yes, living in this sunshine state adds its sprinkle of insight.
My picks?
It’s a fusion of first-hand tastes, good ol’ research, and that community vibe.
Our Restaurant Rating Method
We rate these restaurants based on the following criteria.
- Taste & Variety: We use it to evaluate the variety and food quality served at every restaurant. Does the restaurant serve tasty dishes with unique flavors? Does the restaurant’s menu cater to different dietary preferences, like vegetarian and gluten-free? We ask ourselves these questions to evaluate the taste and variety criterion.
- Service: It’s used to evaluate the quality of service provided by the restaurant’s staff. Are their servers knowledgeable about their food? Are they friendly, prompt, and courteous? These are the important questions whenever we rate the service of every restaurant.
- Atmosphere: It evaluates the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Is the restaurant comfortable and inviting? Does the restaurant’s atmosphere match the type of cuisine they serve? We consider these factors when evaluating the restaurant’s atmosphere.
- Affordability: We use this to assess the value of money provided by the restaurant. Are the food portions ideal for the price? Are the guests going to be satisfied with what they pay for? We ask ourselves these questions in order to rate the restaurant’s affordability.
- Accessibility: It measures how accessible the place is for the guests. Is the restaurant in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? We use these questions to assess the accessibility of every restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Most Popular Restaurants In Starke?
The most popular restaurants in Starke, Florida, include Tony and Al’s Deli, Tip Thai Cuisine, The Downtown Grill, Cedar River Seafood, and Laredo Mexican Restaurant. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, from Italian to Thai to American, garnering excellent reviews from customers.
What Are The Best Restaurants In Starke For Families With Children?
Some of the best restaurants in Starke for families with children include Tony and Al’s Deli, The Downtown Grill, Cedar River Seafood, Powell’s Dairy Freeze, and McDonald’s. These restaurants have kid-friendly menus, comfortable seating, and plenty of space for kids to run around. They also tend to be more affordable than some of the other restaurants in Starke.
What Are Some Must-Try Dishes At The Best Restaurants In Starke?
Some must-try dishes at the top restaurants in Starke may include their signature specialties like mouthwatering barbecued ribs, delectable seafood platters, savory steak cuts, and delectable desserts that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Can I Make Reservations At The Restaurants In Starke?
Yes. Many of the top restaurants in Starke accept reservations, especially during peak hours or busy seasons, to ensure you have a guaranteed spot for your dining occasion.
Conclusion
Planning a trip and seeking the best restaurants in Starke for an unforgettable family dining experience?
Dive in with confidence.
Look no further than the top-rated Call Street Cafe.
As a Florida local who has personally explored the town’s culinary gems, Call Street Cafe stands out as our top choice.
This charming spot exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of your grandmother’s kitchen with a modern touch.
Their veggie omelet is a delightful memory, while Sonny’s BBQ offers the perfect smoky, Southern vibes, and Tony and Al’s Deli takes you on a flavorful journey to Europe.
Each restaurant has its charm, but Call Street Cafe’s cozy setting and commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients make it a standout choice.
Go ahead and explore Starke’s culinary magic and make your family’s dining experience memorable.
Editor’s Choice
Call Street Cafe
Call Street Cafe, opened in 2015 by Chef James Jackson and his wife, strives to bring their delicious, one-of-a-kind cuisine to Downtown Starke.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 3/5
