Bittersweet Farewell: Iconic Jacksonville Restaurant Closes After Years of Music and Munching

A well-known Jacksonville eatery, famous for hosting live music performances locally and serving dishes like Bangin' Shrimp Tacos, is set to close after nearly 11 years of operation.

Whiskey Jax Baymeadows , located at 10915 Baymeadows Road, Suite 135, will shut down after services conclude on July 19, according to an announcement made by the restaurant on Facebook on July 9, which stated, "We have some mixed emotions to share."

"Having operated under a month-to-month rental agreement as our landlord looked for a new occupant has brought us to this situation, with the choice arriving earlier than expected," the restaurant stated.

The message also expressed gratitude to supporters for "being a part of our adventure" throughout the years.

"Side by side, we tackled difficulties, marked achievements, and built enduring bonds. ... We value each memory shared with you," it stated.

Whiskey Jax Baymeadows' owners were unavailable for response.

The Baymeadows eatery—approved by the state in September 2014—was one of only two Whiskey Jax Kitchen & Cocktails outlets remaining in Duval County.

Whiskey Jax Kitchen & Cocktails, located at 725 Atlantic Boulevard in Atlantic Beach, closed in March 2024 After two years. It had relocated to Atlantic Beach moved in February 2022 from its former address at 950 Marsh Landing Parkway in Jacksonville Beach.

Regular customers along with area performers commended the Baymeadows eatery through online platforms and expressed how much they'll miss it.

I'm really sorry to hear about this. The Whiskey Jax team has always taken care of me, my family, and the groups I've worked with very well over the last few years," said a musician on Facebook. "In my view, Whiskey Jax was one of the top spots in Jacksonville for live performances, and they also offered amazing food and reliable service. You're going to be greatly missed.

Another person wrote: "WJ turned into my second home... with the amazing team and our regular customers, it feels as though we're all members of one big family. I'll truly miss that family!"

Teresa Stepzinski covers dining news for the Times-Union. You can follow her on X, which was previously called Twitter, at @TeresaStepz or contact her through email at tstepzinski@jacksonville.com.

If you are a member, thanks. If not, become a subscriber to obtain the most recent restaurant reviews .

This piece was first published in the Florida Times-Union: "Sad but hopeful update:" A Jacksonville eatery famous for its live performances and casual dining will be shutting down