Restaurants near Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts

We came for a free theater dinner. Our servers were very attentive to our time restrictions. We've selected off of the early bird menu, and everyone was very pleased with their meals. The only negative was main course delay in kitchen resulted. I don't remember, Tommy. That's rushing to leave by seven

When we arrived there were very few people at the restaurant (2:30 p.m.). The manager indicated we could not sit in the atrium because the bartender was the only server and it would be easier on him not to have to go beyond the seating area closer to the bar. At first, that was a bit annoying because the atrium is nicer and the manager was accommodating his employee over his customer. This proved to be a very positive visit, however. With such a little staff, we were concerned about the kitchen staffing, but our meal was wonderful. The best house made minestrone we have had, and David, the bartender and server, was efficient, friendly, and gave great meal suggestions. Our sandwich choices were very tasty, and the presentation of our shared wedge salad was delicious. We have been frequenting this restaurant for many years when it was part of the Omni chain, and it does not disappoint now that the hotel has changed to Marriott.

The Cowford Chophouse is one of our absolute favorites! The staff attentive and welcoming, and the food is amazing as always. This is what fine dining should be.

Overall, a good experience, though not great. Onion soup was a little disappointing (unusual flavoring), but my wife’s Chopped House Salad was terrific. We both ordered the “Chef Selection” filet mignon and lobster tail. Those dishes were OK, but a modest fail because both small steaks (one cooked medium, the other medium well) were extremely dry. No juices. No nothing. Unless, I guess, you pay extra for an “enhancement.” A real money grab, there. We ended up dipping pieces into the lobsters’ drawn butter. The loaded baked potato was huge and quite good. Service was attentive, cheerful and excellent. But with a $300 bill for two people and juice-less steaks…we probably won’t be back.

Extraordinary by any measure. Our go-to restaurant for a special dining experience. Lots of choices in Jacksonville but Ruth's Chris never disappoints. Long-time fan of the chain locations in San Diego and Scottsdale but this one rises to the top by far. Two managers strolling about making sure everything is perfect (it was) and manager Skylar's brief visits were appropriate and never intrusive. Of course we'll return.