New Upscale Southern Restaurant Opens Amid Hurricane Milton in San Marco

JACKSONVILLE, Florida. – A new upscale Southern restaurant in San Marco, Blue San Marco, opened Oct. 11 in the former home of Bistro AIX, which closed in September after 25 years. Hurricane Milton didn’t ruin the inauguration, they were prepared for it.

Chef James Stuart of 20 years and his managing partner Joel Mesa of 11 years, who have extensive experience in the restaurant industry, were very excited to unveil their new restaurant.

The new menu includes blue ceviche, tiger shrimp salad and cauliflower steak, all topped off with white chocolate panna cotta.

According to the Jacksonville Daily Record, the building has undergone some renovations. The dining room is carpeted and the windows have new blue stenciled awnings.

Now, until October 19, the restaurant will have limited hours. Dinner is served Monday to Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. On Sunday it is closed.

Starting October 21, the restaurant will return to its full regular schedule, with breakfast from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner at 5 p.m.

The inspired design creates the appearance of an upscale yet very welcoming atmosphere while remaining casual.

Before opening the new restaurant, Stuart worked for Taverna Oceana since 2016. He has worked with many top chefs, such as Sam Efon, Brian Cripps and Ben Behymer, making him a well-known chef in the community sector and of catering.

Mesa has been in the restaurant and bar industry since 2013.

As part of the new renovations, the two owners agreed to create a section in the restaurant to accommodate the younger, non-drinking generation. Instead, non-alcoholic drinks will be served.

Mesa said non-alcoholic bars like Kava & Co. in San Marco and Wildcrafters in Five Points “have been leading the way in this market for years, and we think it’s time for them to get into fine dining.” according to the Daily Record.

Anyone wishing to make a reservation can download the Resy app.