- Attraction: Down Under Restaurant
- Location: 96106 Wades Place, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
- Industry: Seafood Restaurant
- Website: http://www.downunderfb.com/
Finding genuine waterfront dining experiences feels nearly impossible these days, but Down Under Restaurant changes that equation completely.
This maritime marvel transforms an old fish camp into something magical, where bald eagles soar overhead while you feast on fresh Gulf seafood.
Located literally “down under” the Shave Bridge along the Intracoastal Waterway, this restaurant delivers an adventure that begins the moment you turn off A1A and spot the weathered signs pointing toward the water.
The restaurant’s history runs deep through Fernandina Beach’s maritime roots. What started as a 200-acre turpentine operation in 1923 evolved into oyster houses during the 1930s, then became a bait shop for local anglers in the 1950s.
By 1982, the owners transformed that humble fish camp into Down Under Restaurant, growing from 44 seats to over 200 while preserving its authentic Southern nautical atmosphere.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Highlights
Shrimp & Grits: Pure Southern comfort elevated to an art form. The creamy, perfectly seasoned grits provide a velvety foundation for plump, tender shrimp that practically melt in your mouth. Even visitors from Wisconsin admit this dish converts grits skeptics into believers with its rich, flavorful execution.
She Crab Soup: A creamy, indulgent masterpiece that appears on nearly every regular customer’s order. This signature soup delivers chunks of sweet crab meat swimming in a perfectly balanced broth that’s neither too thick nor too thin, creating the ideal consistency for soaking up with their complimentary hush puppies.
Seafood Platter for Two: An impressive spread featuring fresh fish, scallops, shrimp, and fried oysters that easily satisfies two hungry diners. You’ll choose your preparation style—grilled, blackened, sautéed, or fried—and each component arrives perfectly cooked with sides of hush puppies and coleslaw.
Cast Iron Seared Scallops: These massive scallops arrive with a perfect golden sear and tender, sweet interior that puts many high-end establishments to shame. The lemon butter sauce complements rather than overwhelms the natural sweetness of these impressive shellfish.
Fresh Fried Oysters: Local Gulf oysters get a light, crispy coating that highlights their briny flavor without masking the delicate meat inside. The perfectly seasoned breading creates that satisfying crunch that makes each bite memorable.
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Discover MoreOrange Blossom Honey Glazed Salmon: This signature dish combines Florida’s citrus heritage with fresh Atlantic salmon, creating a sweet-savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. The honey adds richness without overpowering the fish’s natural flavor.
Crab Cakes: Made with sweet Amelia Island crab meat and minimal filler, these cakes arrive golden brown with a remoulade sauce that adds tangy brightness. Each bite delivers more crab than breading, exactly how quality crab cakes should be prepared.
Atmosphere & Décor
Waterfront Views: The expansive outdoor deck stretches along 80 feet of floating dock, offering unobstructed views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Boats constantly cruise past while you dine, creating an ever-changing tableau of maritime activity that keeps the scenery fresh and engaging.
Wildlife Encounters: The restaurant’s unique location attracts an impressive variety of Florida wildlife. Bald eagles dive for fish directly in front of the deck, while dolphins frequently surface nearby. Manatees, sea turtles, and various waterbirds make regular appearances, turning every meal into an impromptu nature documentary.
Live Music Setting: The outdoor stage hosts talented local musicians, particularly during sunset hours. The acoustic performances create a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere without overwhelming conversation, striking the perfect balance between entertainment and dining ambiance.
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Keep Exploring →Tiki Bar Vibes: The outdoor tiki bar extends the tropical Florida experience with creative cocktails and cold beers. The bar area provides casual seating for those wanting drinks while waiting for tables or simply enjoying the sunset views.
Rustic Nautical Charm: The restaurant maintains its authentic fish camp heritage with weathered wood, nautical décor, and maritime memorabilia. The interior feels comfortably casual rather than stuffy, encouraging relaxation and extended conversations over meals.
Other Considerations
Pricing Value: Most entrées range from $22-32, placing Down Under in the mid-to-upper price range for Fernandina Beach dining. However, the generous portions, fresh ingredients, and unique waterfront location justify the investment, especially considering the wildlife viewing opportunities included with every meal.
Parking & Access: The restaurant sits down a gravel road off A1A, creating a sense of adventure during arrival. Free parking is plentiful, though the gravel surface can be dusty. The location feels hidden but isn’t difficult to find once you know where to look.
Seating Options: You’ll choose between climate-controlled indoor dining and the popular outdoor deck seating. The outdoor deck provides superior views and wildlife watching opportunities, though Florida weather occasionally makes indoor dining more comfortable.
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Discover MoreNo Reservations Policy: Down Under operates on a first-come, first-served basis, though they appreciate advance notice for large groups. Expect waits during peak dining hours, especially during sunset times and weekend evenings.
Family-Friendly Environment: The restaurant welcomes families with children, offering a kids’ menu and high chairs. The wildlife viewing opportunities keep younger diners entertained, while the casual atmosphere eliminates stress about formal dining behavior.
Happy Hour Benefits: The restaurant offers an affordable happy hour menu with discounted drinks and select appetizers. The timing varies seasonally, but typically runs during late afternoon hours when the outdoor deck provides comfortable seating.
Down Under Restaurant
📍 96106 Wades Place, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
