Ready to book your table or order online for the ultimate Tallahassee tasting tour? Florida’s capital is a goldmine for foodies who dodge the “cookie-cutter” chains in favor of authentic, locally-owned flavors.

From the farm-to-table elegance of Backwoods to the eclectic, award-winning plates at Kool Beanz Cafe, the city’s independent dining scene is thriving.

Whether you are looking to reserve a spot for a high-stakes power lunch at Il Lusso or crave the comfort of Southern-style shrimp and grits at The Edison, these local institutions offer more than just a meal — they offer a destination.

Use the list below to secure your reservation or place a pickup order at the best non-chain spots in town.

  1. Kool Beanz Cafe – 921 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  2. Savour – 115 E Park Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  3. Il Lusso – 201 E Park Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  4. Table 23 – 1215 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  5. The Edison – 470 Suwannee St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  6. Lucilla – 1241 E Lafayette St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  7. Masa – 1650 N Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  8. Midtown Caboose – 1406 N Meridian Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  9. Liberty Restaurant – 1307 N Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  10. Food Glorious Food – 1950 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  11. Charlie Park – 801 S Gadsden St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  12. Jeri’s Love on a Plate – 1120 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  13. Uptown Cafe & Catering – 1325 Miccosukee Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308

  14. Aphrodisiac Oyster Shack – 325 N Bronough St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  15. Shell Oyster Bar – 701 S Ware St, Tallahassee, FL 32304

  16. Riccardo’s Italian Restaurant – 1950 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  17. Aaru’s Indian Cuisine – 1108 S Magnolia Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  18. The Hawthorn Bistro & Bakery – 1307 N Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32303

  19. Harry’s Seafood & Grill – 301 S Bronough St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  20. Momo’s Pizza – 1410 Market St, Tallahassee, FL 32312

  21. Early’s Kitchen – 1458 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

  22. Tour of Italy – 3805 N Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32303

By choosing these locally-owned gems, travelers gain an authentic taste of North Florida culture while supporting the small business owners who make the “850” unique.

Whether you are hunting for fine dining or a hidden dive, this list ensures your culinary itinerary is top-tier.