By Lynn Jones | Island Vibes Meet Southern Charm at St. Johns Town Center | Southside’s St. Johns Town Center is home to one of Jacksonville’s most relaxing escapes — the Tommy Bahama Home Store and Marlin Bar. From the moment you step inside, the sound of live music fills the air, setting a laid-back, coastal tone as guests browse a menu of tropical-inspired favorites. The outdoor patio invites diners to unwind beneath string lights, sip cocktails near a gentle waterfall, and take in the lively atmosphere. Just steps away, the Tommy Bahama Home Store offers a curated selection of island apparel and home décor, blending shopping and dining into a seamless coastal experience.
Hostess Nicole Sams greeted our table with a genuine smile — and a surprise gift bag filled with a mango-scented candle — before leading us to our seats. It’s that extra touch of hospitality that makes the Marlin Bar feel both polished and personal.
We kicked things off with several of their most popular dishes: the Steak Flatbread, Street Corn Dip, and Coconut Shrimp, paired with two standout cocktails — the Coconut Cloud Martini and Raspberry Jalapeño Paloma.
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Flavor That Transports You to the Islands | The Steak Flatbread was perfectly balanced: juicy, tender steak layered over a crisp, golden crust. The Street Corn Dip—a melty mix of jack and cotija cheeses, chipotle aioli, and house-made chips—was pure comfort food indulgence.
And the Coconut Shrimp? A crispy, golden delight served with sweet papaya-mango chutney that had us immediately planning a return visit.
The Coconut Cloud Martini looked as good as it tasted—frothy, luscious, and coconut-forward, featuring Don Q Cristal, 360 Vanilla, and Cruzan Coconut.
Meanwhile, the Raspberry Jalapeño Paloma mixed Milagro Silver Tequila, raspberry, lime, and sugar cane syrup, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. The tajín-rimmed glass added just the right amount of kick.
After our meal, we caught up with Chef Kemp, who shared his passion for food and hospitality. “Tommy Bahama has elevated my career. I plan to be here a long time,” he said proudly. Supported by two sous chefs and three culinary leads, Chef Kyle and his team bring creativity and consistency to every dish that leaves the kitchen.
The Crispy Lemon Chicken was the true showstopper — perfectly cooked, topped with a celery and pine nut salad, and finished with a buttery lemon caper sauce that tied everything together beautifully.
Dessert was equally impressive. The Key Lime Pie was creamy, tart, and decadent with the perfect graham cracker crust — a sweet ending to a truly satisfying meal.
Island Life, Reimagined in Jacksonville | Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour, a weekend brunch, or a laid-back dinner with friends, Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar Jacksonville captures the easygoing essence of island life — right in the heart of the city.
First launched in 1996 in Naples, Florida, Tommy Bahama’s Marlin Bar concept has since become a favorite for diners seeking great food, warm service, and coastal ambiance. The Jacksonville location, opened in 2020, continues that tradition, standing out as one of the premier dining destinations on the First Coast.
For more information, visit www.tommybahama.com.
