Recently I took a trip to Jacksonville, FL.  I was unsure of what to expect but I have to say I was both disappointed and pleasantly surprised at the same time.

Prior to my arrival, I experienced an array of issue with the hotel which resulted in an upgrade to a Riverview room.  Every morning I had the pleasure of waking up to this…

and going to bed to this…

The best meal of my trip did not come until 4 days into my 7 day trip.  A new friend Alicia, of the blog Fashion By Alicia, invited me to attend a North Florida/South Georgia Blogger Meetup.  She was super kind to pick me up from my hotel for this event.  On the way she shared that we would be dining at Nipper Beach Grille, an establishment where Top Chef Season 7 contestant Kenny Gilbert is executive chef.

 I have never watched the show, but hearing that he was on Top Chef let me know that I was about to have an amazing meal.

The menu was full of fantastic options but being the southern girl I am, I landed on the Mac’n Cheese with Pulled Pork.

This dish made me the happiest girl on earth!  Full of cheesy goodness and delicious pulled pork, ahhhhhh – I need this everyday.  It was beyond expectations and is one of the few reasons I would return to this city.

 It was lovely to meet Chef Kenny.  I am so sorry we held him up with so many pictures but his hospitality was genuine.  (I am not pictured…I am the photo taker.)

The best thing about being right on the river was the water taxi.  For $3 each way, the water taxi takes you to various destinations across the river, like Chart House, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and River City Brewery.

River City Brewery was the location I enjoyed my second best meal in Jax.

The fish & chips were delicious.  Also on the table they had a yummy habanero pepper relish sauce that this Texan fell in love with.

After dinner some ladies and I walked around in Friendship Park.  Where the beautiful fountain takes center stage.

All in all, my trip was a relaxing and had many high points but I must admit I am glad to be back in Texas.