A Jacksonville restaurant popular as a local live music venue, and known for its grub such as Bangin’ Shrimp Tacos, plans to shut its doors after almost 11 years
Whiskey Jax Baymeadows, at 10915 Baymeadows Road, Suite 135, will close at the end of service on July 19, the restaurant announced July 9 on Facebook, saying, “We must share some bittersweet news.”
“Operating on a month-to-month lease while our landlord sought a new tenant has led us to this point, and the decision comes sooner than we anticipated,” the restaurant posted.
The post also thanked patrons for “being part of our journey” over the years.
“Together, we faced challenges, celebrated milestones, and created lasting friendships. … We cherish every moment spent with you,” it said.
Whiskey Jax Baymeadows ownership couldn’t be reached for comment.
The Baymeadows restaurant — licensed by the state in September 2014 — was the last of two Whiskey Jax Kitchen & Cocktails locations in Duval County.
Whiskey Jax Kitchen & Cocktails, 725 Atlantic Blvd. in Atlantic Beach, closed in March 2024 after two years. It had relocated to Atlantic Beach in February 2022 from its previous location at 950 Marsh Landing Parkway in Jacksonville Beach.
Longtime patrons as well as local musicians praised the Baymeadows restaurant on social media and said it will be greatly missed.
“So sorry to hear this. The Whiskey Jax family has treated me, my family, and the bands I have been associated with … so well over the past several years,” one musician posted on Facebook. “In my opinion, Whiskey Jax has been one of the best places in Jacksonville for live music, and has also had great food and consistently excellent service. You will be sorely missed.”
Another posted: “WJ became my home away from home … between the phenomenal staff and us regulars, it feels like we are all a part of this huge family. I will miss that family dearly!”
Teresa Stepzinski is the dining reporter for the Times-Union. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @TeresaStepz or reach her via email at tstepzinski@jacksonville.com.
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This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: ‘Bittersweet news:’ Jacksonville restaurant known for live music, pub grub plans to close
Reporting by Teresa Stepzinski, Jacksonville Florida Times-Union / Florida Times-Union
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