Taste Local – Dixie County

In Dixie County, the food is as down-to-earth and authentic as the folks who serve it. You’ll find family-run cafes and seaside grills dishing up true local favorites. Think fried fish caught that morning, crispy hush puppies, and a side of creamy coleslaw – or a plate of slow-cooked BBQ ribs with homemade sauce. Seafood lovers can savor Gulf shrimp and blue crab when they’re in season. Adventurous eaters might even sample smoked mullet dip or swamp cabbage stew, an old Florida delicacy. Save room for a slice of key lime or pecan pie at the end. Don’t be surprised if the chef steps out to chat – around here, dining comes with a smile and a story about the day’s catch.

In Gilchrist County, you’ll find good old-fashioned country cooking that hits the spot after a day on the river. Local eateries are often small, family-run spots where recipes have been passed down through the years. In Bell or Trenton, you might walk into a no-frills BBQ joint and be greeted by the smell of hickory-smoked pork and ribs cooking out back. Fill your plate with Southern classics like fried catfish, baked beans, coleslaw, and a big slice of cornbread – all washed down with plenty of sweet tea. Many places offer daily specials (think chicken and dumplings or a hearty stew) just like Grandma made. Got a sweet tooth? Save room for desserts like pecan pie or banana pudding. And if you’re here in summer, don’t miss a scoop of fresh peach ice cream from a roadside stand. Eating in Gilchrist County feels like a family picnic – simple, hearty, and made with love.

Bring your appetite to Levy County, where local flavors shine. On the coast in Cedar Key, seafood is king – try the famous Cedar Key clams (perhaps in a creamy chowder or steamed with garlic and butter) at a dockside cafe while you watch boats bob in the harbor. The fish is as fresh as it gets, from sweet Gulf shrimp to blackened grouper caught that morning. Inland, you’ll find family-owned eateries serving up hearty country fare: think fried chicken, tangy BBQ, smoked mullet dip, collard greens and cornbread. Many spots feature produce from nearby farms and whatever’s in season. For dessert, maybe a slice of peanut butter pie or a scoop of homemade ice cream from a small-town parlor. Eating in Levy County is a casual, delicious adventure – you might even get the cook’s secret recipe if you ask nicely!

If you want a true taste of Taylor County, start with the seafood. In Steinhatchee and Keaton Beach, waterfront grills serve up the day’s catch – grouper sandwiches, fried shrimp baskets, crab cakes, and tender scallops when they’re in season. There’s nothing like enjoying a fish dinner while overlooking the Gulf, with pelicans waiting for a tidbit. In Perry, you’ll find down-home Southern cooking: think smoky pulled pork from a family BBQ joint or a heaping plate of fried chicken with collard greens at a classic diner. Don’t pass up a cup of creamy clam chowder if it’s on the menu – hearty stews and soups are a local favorite. Taylor County is also peanut country, so grab some hot boiled peanuts from a roadside stand for a salty snack. And for dessert, see if you can get a slice of homemade pecan pie or a scoop of old-fashioned vanilla ice cream. Dining here is casual, portions are generous, and the folks are friendly – it’s like Sunday supper at Grandma’s, any day of the week.