{"id":383054,"date":"2026-08-28T00:10:19","date_gmt":"2026-08-28T00:10:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/383054\/"},"modified":"2026-08-28T00:10:19","modified_gmt":"2026-08-28T00:10:19","slug":"best-of-stuart-2026-dining-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/383054\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Of Stuart 2026: Dining"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Hudson\u2019sHudson\u2019s on the River. Photo by Alissa Dragun Photography
\nBest All-Around Restaurant: The Gafford<\/a><\/p>\n

Few restaurants embody Stuart quite like The Gafford. Known for Chef Taylor Wilson\u2019s shrimp and grits, hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and warm hospitality, the downtown favorite has mastered the art of being the perfect choice for just about any occasion.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0The Black Marlin<\/a>,\u00a0Kyle G\u2019s Prime Seafood & Steaks<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Ambience: Hudson\u2019s on the River<\/a><\/p>\n

Sunset views, swaying palms, boats drifting by, and a front-row seat to the St. Lucie River\u2014Hudson\u2019s on the River delivers a setting that\u2019s hard to beat. Whether you\u2019re gathering for dinner or lingering over cocktails, the waterfront backdrop is part of the experience.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Palm City Social<\/a>, The Urban Tapas<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Asian Restaurant: Krua Thai<\/a><\/p>\n

For more than three decades, Krua Thai has been serving authentic Thai cuisine in Stuart. From fragrant curries and noodle dishes to house specialties packed with bold flavor, the longtime favorite has introduced generations of locals to the art of Thai cooking.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Emman\u2019s Asian Gourmet<\/a>, Bo Lan Restaurant<\/a><\/p>\n

Best BBQ: Southern Pig & Cattle Co.<\/a><\/p>\n

Great barbecue can\u2019t be rushed. At Southern Pig & Cattle Co., the beef brisket is smoked for 14 hours, resulting in barbecue that has earned the family-owned restaurant a loyal following. Add ribs, pulled pork, and classic Southern sides, and you\u2019ve got a recipe for success.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Barbecue Beer Co.<\/a>,\u00a0Sweet Smoke Southern Kitchen<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Bakery: Importico\u2019s Bakery Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/p>\n

Importico\u2019s Bakery Caf\u00e9 brings a taste of old-world Europe to the Treasure Coast. The longtime favorite has built a loyal following with artisan breads, traditional pastries, and desserts that keep customers coming back for one more bite.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Bomboloni Bakery Caf\u00e9 & Ristorante<\/a>,\u00a0Vicky Bakery<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Bar Food: Carson\u2019s Tavern<\/a><\/p>\n

Some meals call for white tablecloths. Others call for a burger, a cold beer, and a seat at Carson\u2019s Tavern. The neighborhood favorite serves up the kind of crave-worthy wings, sandwiches, and comfort food that make it easy to stay for just one more round.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Mangia Clam Bar<\/a>,\u00a0Scooter\u2019s Fun, Food & Spirits<\/a><\/p>\n

\"FreshFresh ingredients and colorful, feel-good dishes make every plate live up to the name at Berry Fresh Cafe\u0301. Photo courtesy of Berry Fresh Cafe\u0301
\nBest Breakfast: Berry Fresh Caf\u00e9<\/a> <\/p>\n

From stuffed French toast and fluffy pancakes to avocado toast and omelets, Berry Fresh Caf\u00e9 has something to satisfy every kind of morning craving.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Jan\u2019s Place Restaurant and Bakery<\/a>, Key West Diner<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Brunch: Dolphin Bar<\/a><\/p>\n

A made-to-order omelet station, waffle station, grits bar, carving station, and Bloody Mary and mimosa bar turn Sunday brunch into an event. Add sweeping St. Lucie River views, and it\u2019s easy to see why locals keep coming back.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Colab Kitchen<\/a>, Spritz City Bistro<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Burgers: Piranha Pat\u2019s<\/a><\/p>\n

When a restaurant has been serving burgers for more than four decades, it\u2019s probably doing something right. A Stuart staple since 1978, Piranha Pat\u2019s serves burgers, drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere that has made it a local reader favorite.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Burger Daddy<\/a>, Stack Burgers and Bourbon Bar<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Chef: Taylor Wilson, The Gafford<\/p>\n

For Taylor Wilson, cooking is a family tradition. As the executive chef of The Gafford\u2014named for his great-grandparents\u2014he honors that legacy with thoughtful Southern-inspired cuisine, fresh local ingredients, and the warm hospitality that has become a hallmark of the downtown Stuart favorite.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Scott Enterline, Urban Tapas<\/a>;\u00a0Paolo Ferretti, The Chefs Table<\/a><\/p>\n

\"TaylorTaylor Wilson, owner of The Gafford. Photo by Jackie Rivers Salt & SocialQ&A with\u00a0Taylor Wilson<\/p>\n

What\u2019s the greatest lesson your family taught you about the restaurant business?<\/p>\n

Hospitality. It\u2019s something that\u2019s been handed down in our family for generations\u2014from my great-grandfather, to my grandfather, to my father, and now to me. <\/p>\n

What\u2019s the back story behind Mabel\u2019s Fried Chicken?<\/p>\n

Mabel was my grandmother and her fried chicken was the meal we looked forward to every single week. Every time someone orders Mabel\u2019s Fried Chicken, they\u2019re getting a piece of my family\u2019s story.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s one food trend you love and one you\u2019re ready to leave behind?<\/p>\n

I love seeing the continued focus on sourcing locally. Knowing your farmers, fishermen, and producers creates stronger communities and better food. One trend I\u2019d happily leave behind is cooking for Instagram instead of flavor. Presentation matters, but taste should always come first. I want our food to comfort people, nourish them, and create memories. If it happens to photograph beautifully too, that\u2019s a bonus. \u2014K.D.L<\/p>\n

Best Date Night Spot: Riverwalk Caf\u00e9 and Oyster Bar<\/a><\/p>\n

Some restaurants just feel romantic, and Riverwalk Caf\u00e9 & Oyster Bar has mastered the formula. Tucked along the St. Lucie River, the intimate downtown Stuart favorite pairs twinkling lights, waterfront views, fresh seafood, and a cozy atmosphere that practically begs you to linger over one more glass of wine.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0District Table and Bar<\/a>,\u00a0Oak & Ember Steakhouse<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Dessert: Palm City Social<\/a> <\/p>\n

Save room for dessert\u2014or plan your meal around it. From the Banana Split Board and s\u2019mores mousse to Key lime pie and decadent cakes from Fireman Derek\u2019s Bake Shop, Palm City Social proves the sweetest course is often the most memorable.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Citron Bistro<\/a>,\u00a0Pez Vela Fusion Kitchen <\/a><\/p>\n

Best Dock & Dine Restaurant: Conchy Joe\u2019s<\/a><\/p>\n

By land or by sea, Conchy Joe\u2019s welcomes hungry boaters with cold drinks, fresh seafood, and a front-row seat to the Indian River. The waterfront favorite has been serving up laid-back Florida vibes, conch fritters, and sunset views for generations.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Shrimper\u2019s Grill and Raw Bar<\/a>,\u00a0Two Georges Dockside Grill<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Family-Friendly Restaurant: Colab Kitchen<\/a><\/p>\n

Keeping everyone happy at the dinner table isn\u2019t always easy, but Colab Kitchen makes it look effortless. With something for every age and appetite, the community gathering spot has become a favorite for family meals. And if the kids finish eating before the adults, there\u2019s even a market to browse while you linger a little longer.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Island Beach Bar & Restaurant<\/a>, Lynora\u2019s Italian Restaurant\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Food Truck: Brothers\u2019 Q BBQ<\/a><\/p>\n

Follow the scent of hickory smoke and you\u2019ll likely end up at Brothers\u2019 Q BBQ. Known for its smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and Southern comfort sides, the local favorite has earned a reputation for serving serious barbecue from a decidedly untraditional kitchen.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Bengal Tiger Thai Cuisine<\/a>, Ital Bowls Food Truck<\/a><\/p>\n

Best French Restaurant: La Grande Martier<\/a><\/p>\n

French influence meets Southern hospitality at La Grande Martier. Inspired by the French Creole flavors of the Lowcountry, the downtown Stuart favorite blends European techniques with coastal ingredients and warm hospitality, creating a dining experience that\u2019s both elevated and approachable.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Frittata Bakery Caf\u00e9 by Pastelittles<\/a>,\u00a0Sucre French Bakery<\/a><\/p>\n

\"PhotoPhoto courtesy of Shark Shack Sweets
\nBest Ice Cream & Frozen Treats: Shark Shack Sweets<\/a><\/p>\n

A trip to Shark Shack Sweets feels a little like summer vacation. From towering ice cream cones and creamy milkshakes to sweet treats that delight kids and adults alike, the colorful local favorite serves up smiles one scoop at a time.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Celtic Creamery<\/a>,\u00a0Beach House Ice Cream<\/a><\/p>\n

\"LaLa Forchetta. Photo by Jennifer Sampson
\nBest Italian Restaurant: La Forchetta Italian Restaurant<\/a><\/p>\n

At La Forchetta, family recipes and fresh ideas share the same table. Rooted in generations of Italian culinary tradition, the family-owned restaurant pairs classic pastas and Old World flavors with inventive specials that keep even regulars discovering something new.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Pepe & Sale<\/a>,\u00a0Ristorante Claretta<\/a><\/p>\n

\"FrancescaFrancesca Di Fede, owner of La Forchetta. Photo by Jennifer SampsonGet to Know Francesca Di Fede<\/p>\n

Owner of La Forchetta, Winner \u201cBest Italian Restaurant\u201d<\/p>\n

If anyone was destined to run an Italian restaurant, it was Francesca Di Fede. Growing up, she says, she was practically raised among pizza boxes, joking that \u201csauce runs in my veins.\u201d Her father, Dominic Di Fede, opened La Forchetta in Stuart in 2009 after decades in the pizza business, building the family restaurant around authentic Italian recipes and warm hospitality.<\/p>\n

When Dominic passed away in 2020, Francesca stepped into the leadership role, determined to honor his legacy while carrying the restaurant into the future. Many of the menu\u2019s signature dishes remain family traditions, including the Penne di Pappa\u2014her father\u2019s favorite, originally served at her parents\u2019 wedding\u2014and the beloved Chicken Luca, which she insists best represents what La Forchetta is all about.<\/p>\n

\u201cI always say he lives in these walls,\u201d Francesca says of her father. \u201cHe gives me the strength every day to continue on.\u201d \u2014K.D.L.<\/p>\n

\"RopaRopa vieja bowl. Photo courtesy of Old Havana Cafe\u0301
\nBest Latin Restaurant: Old Havana Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/p>\n

Before bringing Cuban flavors to Stuart, Jesus \u201cChuchi\u201d Rivero worked as a director for MasterChef Latino. Today, he channels that passion into Old Havana Caf\u00e9, where authentic recipes and Cuban culture have made the restaurant a reader favorite.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Merengue Restaurant<\/a>,\u00a0Tapasterra<\/a><\/p>\n

\"PhotoPhoto courtesy of Osceola Street Cafe\u0301
\nBest Lunch Spot: Osceola Street Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/p>\n

Tucked into the heart of downtown Stuart, Osceola Street Caf\u00e9 has mastered the art of the midday meal. Fresh salads, creative sandwiches, daily specials, and a charming courtyard setting make it the kind of place where a quick lunch often turns into a leisurely break from the day.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Ellie\u2019s Downtown Deli<\/a>,\u00a0Sunset Sliders<\/a><\/p>\n

Best New Restaurant: Pez Vela Fusion Kitchen<\/a><\/p>\n

Some restaurants take years to build a following. Pez Vela Fusion Kitchen wasted no time. Blending global flavors, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere, the downtown Stuart newcomer quickly established itself as one of the Treasure Coast\u2019s most exciting dining destinations.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Salty Pelican<\/a>,\u00a0TapasTerra<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Mediterranean Restaurant: Spiro\u2019s Taverna<\/a><\/p>\n

Step through the doors of Spiro\u2019s Taverna and you\u2019re greeted with the flavors and hospitality of Greece. From classic gyros and grilled seafood to house-made specialties and warm service, the longtime favorite has been transporting diners to the
Mediterranean for years.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Fig and Olive Caf\u00e9<\/a>,\u00a0Nostalgia Greek Taverna<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Outdoor Dining:\u00a0Sailor\u2019s Return<\/a><\/p>\n

At Sailor\u2019s Return, the St. Lucie River does half the work. Boats drift by, sunsets light up the water, and every table comes with a front-row seat to one of the Treasure Coast\u2019s most scenic waterfront settings. The food may bring you in, but the view is what makes you want to stay.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0WaterFront\u2014Sailfish Lounge & Grill<\/a>,\u00a0Boathouse<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Pizza: Carmela\u2019s Brick Oven Pizza<\/a><\/p>\n

Some things are worth waiting for. At Carmela\u2019s Brick Oven Pizza, the crackle of a brick-oven crust and the aroma of melting mozzarella have made the family-owned favorite a go-to for pizza lovers throughout the Treasure Coast.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Ian & Kye\u2019s Pizza<\/a>,\u00a0Pusateri\u2019s Chicago Pizza<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Seafood:\u00a0The Black Marlin<\/a><\/p>\n

On the Treasure Coast, seafood isn\u2019t just a cuisine\u2014it\u2019s a way of life. The Black Marlin honors that tradition with fresh fish, coastal favorites, and the easygoing atmosphere that has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0King Neptune<\/a>,\u00a0Crabby\u2019s Oyster Bar<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Steak House:\u00a0Oak & Ember Steakhouse<\/a><\/p>\n

At Oak & Ember, great steak starts with great fire. Part of restaurateur Kyle Greene\u2019s growing collection of standout Treasure Coast restaurants, the wood-fired steakhouse pairs premium cuts, bold flavor, and a polished atmosphere that turns an ordinary dinner into an occasion.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0The Fort Steakhouse<\/a>, Peter\u2019s Steakhouse<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Sushi: Sachi Sushi<\/a> <\/p>\n

At Sachi Sushi, pristine fish, skilled preparation, and beautifully presented rolls have earned a loyal
following among sushi loving readers. Whether you\u2019re a sashimi purist or a specialty-roll enthusiast, every bite reflects a commitment to quality.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Kazu Japanese Restaurant<\/a>,\u00a0Ramen Hana & Sushi<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Tacos: Taco Shack Bar & Grill<\/a><\/p>\n

Some meals are worth getting your hands dirty for. From street-style favorites and fresh toppings to ice-cold margaritas on the side, Taco Shack Bar & Grill serves up the bold flavors and laid-back vibe that taco lovers crave.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Juancito\u2019s Tacos<\/a>,\u00a0Tacos and More<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Vegetarian\/Vegan Options: Hani Honey Company<\/a><\/p>\n

Eating plant-based never felt so satisfying. Hani Honey Company has built a loyal following with colorful, nutrient-packed dishes that prove vegetarian and vegan cuisine can be every bit as flavorful, creative, and crave-worthy as their traditional counterparts.<\/p>\n

Runners Up:\u00a0Namaste Grill<\/a>,\u00a0Planet Ozone\u2019s Tabuleh Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/p>\n

\"TaylorTaylor Wilson, owner of The Gafford. Photo by Jackie Rivers Salt & Social
\nEditor\u2019s Pick: Bagels at Bagel Bistro<\/a> in Hobe Sound<\/p>\n

Fresh-baked bagels, house-made flavored cream cheeses, and stacked breakfast sandwiches have made Bagel Bistro Hobe Sound a local morning ritual. Grab a dozen to go or settle in with coffee and a hot breakfast\u2014either way, you\u2019ll see why the neighborhood keeps coming back. \u2014K.D.L.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Hudson\u2019s on the River. Photo by Alissa Dragun Photography Best All-Around Restaurant: The Gafford Few restaurants embody Stuart…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":382946,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[171,173,172],"class_list":["post-383054","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-port-st-lucie","tag-port-st-lucie","tag-port-st-lucie-headlines","tag-port-st-lucie-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383054","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=383054"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383054\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/382946"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=383054"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=383054"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=383054"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}