We celebrated our anniversary at Gemma Oyster Bar and, as always, the atmosphere was wonderful. It's one of our favorite things about dining here, it's comfortable, relaxed, and quiet enough to easily have a conversation. We also appreciated that multiple staff members wished us a happy anniversary, which made the evening feel special. That said, for a nearly $400 dinner, the level of service didn't quite match the price point. Our server was very kind and pleasant, but she appeared inexperienced. She spent about five minutes struggling to open our $130 bottle of wine and, while everyone has to learn somewhere, it felt uncomfortable for that learning experience to happen tableside during such an expensive meal. There were also several menu availability issues. The restaurant didn't have the 2016 wine we initially ordered, and we were told it had been unavailable for the past four weeks. They also didn't have the first bourbon my husband selected for his Old Fashioned. At that point, it seems reasonable to update or reprint the menu so guests aren't repeatedly ordering items that haven't been available for an extended period of time. The timing of service also felt off. We were expecting our bottle of wine to be delivered and uncorked before our meal arrived, especially after taking additional time to select a replacement bottle. Instead, our entrées were delivered within minutes while we were still waiting for the wine, which made the experience feel rushed and a bit awkward. At this price point, we expected better coordination between beverage and meal service. None of these issues ruined our evening, and we still enjoyed celebrating our anniversary there. The atmosphere remains a highlight, but for a nearly $400 dining experience, we expected a more polished and seamless level of service to match the overall ambiance and price point. read more

Short review of Gemma since we just stopped in for an app and drinks. Pleasantly surprised, enough that I'll be back for more apps and drinks. We ordered the hummus plate, which came with plenty of colorful vegetables. Definitely enough for 4 people. To drink, I ordered the Nice Coconuts, which reminded me of a pina colada. This would be an amazing summer drink, so the second Jacksonville goes back up to 80 degrees I'd highly recommend ordering this to celebrate. The names of the other drinks -- the ex wife, pool boy, etc -- are so fun that we just couldn't decide which to get! We sat on the rooftop, which we were told us first come first serve. I'm a sucker for a rooftop, and we enjoyed this one (shoutout to the heat lamps). Will be back to Gemma once it warms up. Gemma San Marco, Jax, FL Hummus, Nice Coconuts read more

Gemma Fish + Oyster - Nice Coconuts - Seafood Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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Not a great experience on our first visit, but this time around was a whole lot better. We celebrated my wife's birthday and were seated in a more private area which made the evening even nicer. For starters, we had the pork belly buns and roasted oysters. For the mains, my wife ordered the redfish while I had the beef short rib. We definitely enjoyed both dishes, although it did take a little while for them to arrive. We finished with the fried bread pudding for dessert which was a great way to end the meal. Overall, the service was much better this visit and we had a really enjoyable experience. 3.5 / 5 read more

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This was my first Gemma's experience and it was great! We were welcomed warmly and brought upstairs to our table. The decor and ambiance was amazing as was the service. If you are sitting upstairs, it does get warm but we were comfortable. The food was really good. I would definitely recommend the oysters, trout, and scallops. Overall, I would recommend Gemma! read more

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Gemma is just GORGEOUS. I love everything about the decor and the ambiance and style here. I've been to dinner and a couple of happy hours, and it's just fun to be in this place. The dinner was just okay, but it was when they first opened and were getting their bearings. We loved the cocktails and dessert, the boys loved their shellfish dishes (RIP for me), and my girlfriend and I were iffy on the burger and fries. It was just dry and the bun was completely overdone so it was hard to bite through. Happy hour is honestly my jam. Much more reasonably priced, great drinks and great service. I haven't spent time on the rooftop but have heard mixed things. Service the few times I've been has been solid. I'm a big happy hour girl and sitting at the bar, yapping with small plates and drinks is just always a good time. I would give dinner another try, I just haven't been back because there are so many places in Jax. read more

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Ok i delayed checking out Gemma because I (falsely) assumed it was another overrated restaurant in san marco. WOW was I wrong. Omg I was blown away by the service, food, drinks, and atmosphere. I literally cannot wait to go back. Happened here tonight without a reservation and loved sitting at the bar watching the food and drink prepared. Food and drink came out quick and was astoundingly delicious. Highlights include the pink pony cocktail, ahi tuna, and roasted oysters. The entire atmosphere is so pretty and photo ready. The upstairs has almost a european beach club vibe, and the downstairs is sheik and stylish. Price point is legit reasonable for the food quality and atmosphere! read more

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Gemma is one of the most beautiful restaurants in San Marco, their vibe is unmatched. From their high ceilings to beautiful bar it is the perfect place for a girls night or dinner date. I came here with my book club and was able to make a reservation for 8 people easily. Service was attentive and able to split checks with no issue. The oysters were delicious, truffle fries were the perfect shareable appetizer, and steak tartare is great as well. It's a bummer their happy hour is only for the rooftop or bar and not the downstairs seating area, I'll have to make sure to take advantage of it next time. read more

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My girlfriend and I came to this place because we had heard such good things about it. Safe to say, we were not disappointed. Jean-Luc and Sean were exceptional and made our experience hard to forget. Came on a slow Monday night and we couldn't believe there was not more people. Service was completely tailored towards us and made us feel like we were the only people there. Couldn't ask for anything more. read more

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My gf took me to Gemma for Valentine's Day and it was sooo nice. The decor was beautiful and the service amazing. We really couldn't decide what we wanted to so we shared a dish and ordered enough drinks to make up for the other dish (lol). I would definitely like to go back and try a few of the dishes we didn't try. read more

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If you're in San Marco and in the mood for oysters and a good vibe, Gemma Oyster Bar is an easy yes. This is one of those spots I keep coming back to when I want something fresh and a little elevated without anything feeling too formal or over the top. The oysters are always super fresh with a great selection, and it's the perfect place to grab a seat at the bar, order a dozen, and settle in with a glass of wine or a cocktail. Everything we've tried has been light, flavorful, and exactly what you want when you're craving seafood. Also, don't skip dessert. Seriously, you can't go wrong. And if you like espresso martinis, they make a really good one. The staff is super fun and friendly, and the whole place has that lively, neighborhood energy that makes you want to stay awhile. Great for date night, meeting friends, or one of those "let's just go somewhere good" nights in San Marco. read more

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Excellent food. Ordered the tower 2... salmon tartare was my least favorite but the oysters and ceviche were amazing. Our entree were the seafood bucatini and roasted herb chicken. Top tier service and vibes! read more

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This restaurant is an amazing addition to the San Marco area of Jacksonville. I'd describe it as mid-upscale, with a welcoming, elevated ambiance and a covered rooftop, which is a huge plus. I've been three times now, twice for cocktails and appetizers and once for dinner. Each visit has been consistently impressive. I would say it's a great spot for groups, date night, or catching up with a close friend. Another standout perk is the complimentary valet, which I don't think is common in San Marco, though self-parking is also available nearby. The staff are very welcoming, efficient, and accommodating. The food has been excellent across the board. From the Bibb & avocado salad, spicy mussels, Caribbean jerk chicken skewers, crab & artichoke dip, to the truffle fries, you can't go wrong. They also offer a full bar with specialty cocktails, perfect for spicing things up a notch. For dinner, I was not disappointed. The scallops were perfectly cooked, and my friend couldn't stop raving about her fried redfish and the sauce it was served with. Overall, this place has all the makings of a San Marco staple, and I can't wait to come back again when I'm in town. read more

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We visited for brunch and requested rooftop seating, and the ambiance up there was fantastic. It was our first time, and it definitely didn't disappoint. The space is large and inviting, the food was delicious, and the service was excellent. Looking forward to coming back and trying more from the menu. read more

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This place is really nice. Parking is atrocious but if you are patient enough, a place will open up. Definitely a place to set up reservations. When we left there were quite few people waiting in line. No drinks but Gemmas has a full bar with all types of drinks to partake. Started off with crabcakes with remolade sauce. Very good. You get 2 cakes I got the catch of the day which was mahi mahi. Fish so good they named it twice Anna got the potroast which was very tender. She let me try some. Gemma is a great place with good food and service. A destination style restaurant. Be back. Especially for roof top dining. read more

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We enjoyed a Sunday Brunch at Gemma Fish and Oyster which was wonderful! The staff here were super friendly and attentive to our family's needs. The ambiance is modern, clean and inviting. We choose to sit in the rooftop area which was nice and refreshing. We truly enjoyed everything that we ordered from the fish tacos, breakfast, beignets and seafood crepe. Everything was top notch for us. We will definitely be back in the near future! read more

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The ribeye special was absolutely amazing! It melted in your mouth. I'm not sure if this is on the regular menu as it was listed as a special by the server but if you can try it, I highly recommend. Got the Bao and Caribbean jerk chicken skewers as appetizers and they were phenomenal. All in all food is 10/10. Closed out the night with a perfect espresso martini and that was, superb. read more

Gemma Fish + Oyster - Apps - Seafood Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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Love this place!!! Came here with my girlfriends for brunch and it was perfect!!!! Our server was amazing. He knew we came to chat and have drinks first before ordering lunch so he didn't badger us to order. The decor is absolutely gorgeous. From the front door to the oyster bar to the upstairs, eye candy everywhere! The food was amazing as well. The jerk chicken skewers were one of the juiciest chicken I've ever eaten. The hummus was beautiful but not very flavorful. The short rib hash and shrimp and grits were also good, but the seafood crepe wasn't very good... it had a grey sauce on it that was off putting at first sight. Just didn't taste very good. read more

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Oh my goodness! Dear Gussy. Slam dunk. I had two different margaritas, a tuna poke bowl, fried cod fish bites. So fresh and delicious! This place is wonderful. If you have not been, I challenge you to come by here and check them out. The food, the atmosphere, the drinks, the employees make it special for you. Come on out & try them. Pros:all is great. Valet service. It is in San Marco. Cons: none read more

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Picture it, date night October 10th. It was a rainy and I thought for sure that would put a damper on the evening, but the sun found its way out. We were celebrating life and all is has to offer us and the staff greeted us both with a glass of champagne. The bubbly made me want to throw caution to the wind and order everything...all the drinks, seafood and a juicy steak. Thank goodness my wife was able to remind me to pace myself -- it's not like we don't live within a 10 minute drive. We decided we would eat seafood apps -- spicy mussels, shrimp cocktail, Cajun roasted oysters, crab dip and my wife's favorite beet salad. I was in heaven eating the mussels basted in a spicy sauce, the shrimp were COLOSSAL and while the crab dip wasn't lump it was just as yummy. We paired each app with drinks. I can't remember my first drink, but when I tasted E's drink I knew I needed more, so I said, "I need a please, please, please and thank you." We went from driving by this literal gem for years and never stopping, to enjoying apps and drinks here twice in a week. Next time we go we'll make it a rooftop brunch experience with friends. read more

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Great bar experience! The ambience was perfect--nice, relaxing, and a great vibe overall. The drinks were really good, and the bartenders were friendly and welcoming. Definitely a spot I'd come back to! read more

Gemma Fish + Oyster - Seafood Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

I have Been coming to Gemma now for little over 3 years and I am never disappointed. TUNA POKE bowl is my favorite as well as their beet salad :) And I almost forgot the truffle fries delish! read more

I have been to Gemma a few times before and they have yet to disappoint. For one, they have happy hour everyday, which has already won me over. Drinks are always delicious. The atmosphere here is always amazing, even at the bar. It's just a beautiful classy establishment. The service is always attentive and helpful. The food always seems to impress me as well. One of my favorite places to go in Jax! Check it out if you haven't yet!! read more

Gemma Fish + Oyster - Oysters - Seafood Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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I definitely recommend coming here for happy hour. Their drinks are AMAZING and during happy hour, the price is so good. I'm glad they had good drink options on the happy hour menu because that's ultimately what drove my friend and I to come here in the first place. The oysters were good, though on the small side. The truffle fries were crispy. And the salad was delicious! read more

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Finally got a chance to try Gemma, loved everything! I rsvp for the rooftop bar cause it's so pretty up there, but it is an open patio with no AC , they did have fans blowing but still hot, would be ideal for fall time. Now to the food! Pork Belly boa buns- so good, soft buns, flavorful pork and fresh veggies Bib and avocado salad- fresh with a fantastic vinaigrette dressing Stuffed rainbow trout- server recommended and I have to say it was so good, both of us loved it, crispy skin on whole deboned fish, stuffed with crab and shrimp, with a delicious creamy sauce over it, 10/10! Moroccan chicken- spiced half a chicken, roasted with potatoes and carrots, while good, the fish was better. Server was great, personable and helpful! Can't wait to come back! *****1000th Review***** :) read more

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First time visiting Gemma after being highly recommended by several coworkers., and it definitely lived up to their hype! Parking is tough in the area, so we arrived 15 minutes prior to our reservation and used the valet. They were very friendly and efficient, and even escorted us to the front door of the restaurant. Once inside, we were promptly seated on their beautiful the rooftop dining area. Staff, including the manager, welcomed us and thanked us for choosing Gemma. We were then greeted by our amazing waiter, Xavier. He was friendly, personable and the epitome of what exceptional service looks like. He made excellent recommendations, knew the menu inside out, and did not steer us wrong. The bar created the perfect Old Fashioned to kick off the night. We shared a roasted beet salad. It was good, but could have benefited from more cheese. Next, I had the seared scallops. They were perfect and flavorful, and the marrow potatoes were a great addition to the plate. My wife had the short rib with fingerling potatoes and it was delicious as well. After finishing our meals, we were debating dessert. We weren't sure if we should, but ended up having the fried apple bread pudding. Even though we couldn't finish it, it was the perfect ending to a great dining experience. We are looking forward to our next visit. read more

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We're fans of Ember and Iron but this was my first visit to Gemma. This menu is more me as I lean towards seafood when dining out. The restaurant is beautifully appointed throughout. This was a great experience from being seated, to our server Maddie, the pace of the meal, and of course the meal itself. Maddie was friendly, professional, and timely all evening. I started with the Cajun oysters which were well executed - of course we always want them bigger though, right? For my entree, I was torn between the snapper and the redfish but Maddie helped with the decision and there were no regrets. This plate was perfect from portion size, to balance of flavors, to amount of sauce. The curry had a smooth sweetness with great balance of heat. The coconut rum cake is no longer available but we shared the fried apple bread pudding which was a great ending. Add us to the list of fans. read more

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All I can say is simply amazing! This place has been on my list for months. I had a friend come in town so we decided to go to Gemma. Guest the costumer service was amazing. Everyone was so friendly. Our dishes were impeccable. The spicy mussels were fresh and tender with the right amount of spice. The beet salad was delicious. The crabcakes were perfectly seared and set on a house made remoulade. Lastly shrimp and fried grit cake was simply magnificent seasoned to perfection. Will definitely be returning. read more

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I remember first going to Gemma for their soft opening and I was kinda underwhelmed. I've revisited a couple of times and I truly think they improved their menu and worked out their kinks. Brunch here is good and they can accomodate bigger parties. Most recently, I went for happy hour with my friend. We were able to dine upstairs (my first time) and it was so amazing to watch the sunset! The bartenders and servers upstairs were sooo nice and attentive, even when it got busy. I didn't feel ignored or rushed at all. The HH cocktails were amazing too! My only hesitation about dining here was that the happy hour oysters were $26 when I've seen better oysters for better prices (at least for happy hour). I knew coming in I was going to get oysters (Hell, we got three dozen) but I wasn't even sure what kind of oysters they were. I'm trying not to complain - because TRULY they were good!! I'm just not sure if this would be my go to spot for them. I love Gemma though and I'm definitely coming back!! (Also you can park in that lot near Foxtail and there's street parking if valet isn't available) read more

Gemma Fish + Oyster - happy hour oysters, lavendar bees knees - Seafood Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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A November Date Night in Jacksonville. A friend recommended this spot and Gemma did not disappoint. The DRINKS | The two NA were very good: the Not A'Lotta Colada was special and the Fruitquake was nice. The APPETIZERS | Roasted Oysters were ok. The adds/sauce overpowered the oysters. Less is more and that sauce belongs on a protein. The raw oyster were the star: Lady Chatterley of Prince Edward's Island and Cadillac River Maine were umami-y and briny and just good. The ENTREES | Seared Salmon was seared masterfully and came with a not-so-good Pistachio Mole that I could have lived without. The Snapper that was cooked beautifully and came with a delicious Thai Coconut Red Curry. Unfortunately, the sides are where Gemma fell short and flat. Same Jasmine rice and vegetables. At those prices, they have to give more though to curating the sides. The DESSERT | We consider ourselves curators of Bread Pudding. If it is on the dessert menu, we are going to order it. The Fried Apple Bread Pudding was hyped but over fried and we had burnt pieces. The one piece that was edible was quite tasty. I think they over thought that one by frying it and it needs more apple. We told them. The SERVICE | Really made this a good night. Xavier (our server) was good and Mattie/Maddie (the host) was incredible. After dinner, she came by asked us about our meal, sat down, and gave us an Oysters 101 tutorial (why they have the size and flavor profile), and the history of Gemma - the who and how it came to be. Lovely. The VIBE | Upstairs is open to the environment. It was a beautiful night and we could hear the city life while we ate. The decor and ambiance were spot on. That spot must be HOPPIN' during the summer and on a temperate fall night. read more

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Very photo ready interior. Lots of photo ops there. It is a nice place for girls night or date night. Our table got a mix of different appetizers. From hummus app, chicken skewers, pork bao, grilled shrimp and beet salad. Everything was great. The staff was very attentive and helpful. read more

Gemma Fish + Oyster - Seafood Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

I had an amazing dining experience here at Gemma! I was celebrating my new position at work and wanted to treat myself to a rooftop dinner. We were promptly seated, we made a reservation in case. We decided to change things and sit on the second floor/rooftop. We sat right at the ledge, giving us a good view of San Marco. Our server was super nice and friendly. I tried a few oysters, and we shared an appetizer from their happy hour menu. I enjoyed my gin cocktail, called the Lana. For our entrees, my husband got a massive steak and it was cooked perfectly. My shrimp and grits were to die for delicious. Food came out quickly and at great temps! I really loved the vibe here, it is decorated beautifully. Makes you feel like your on vacay at a boujee Californian restaurant. So pretty and would be perfect for casual dinner or any celebrations. Definitely worth the visit! read more

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I enjoy fine dining, but I do wish the server had kept the food descriptions a little shorter. I prefer to place my order, and if I have questions, I'll ask. Aside from that, everything was exceptional, the food, the drinks, the customer service, and especially the oysters. Overall, it was still an amazing experience. read more

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By far this has become one of my Jacksonville favorites. The rooftop dining bar experience is top tier. Easily a great place for date night or with friends. They have a great mocktail and cocktail list as well. The food was flavorful and just damn good! Servers were friendly, attentive, and gave great feedback on menu items. I'm already thinking about who will come visit so I can take them to Gemma. read more

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Underwhelmed with both the service and the food here at Gemma. There seemed to be confusion with our reservation. I had to approach the hostess stand to check on our reservation after waiting over 20 minutes after checking in. The gentleman at the stand didn't really acknowledge me nor the situation and passively poked around on his iPad and we were immediately seated thereafter. The highlight of our meal were the raw oysters. They were served with an accompaniment of a house, made chili sauce, mignonette,, and cocktail sauce. Otherwise... Cocktails were a hit or miss. My espresso martini was just okay. The foam was very thin and was not luscious and creamy as it should be and could have benefited from a more vigorous shake. My husband found his old-fashioned to be a little bit too sweet. My dirty martini was good with the Brackish vodka. The roasted oysters were overcooked and the breadcrumb topping was pasty. Entrees were unimpressive, overly salty, and not balanced. The brined pork chop was cooked to a nice medium, but the seasoning that they placed on the exterior was way too salty and unnecessary. My stuffed trout was cooked well, but also overly salty especially with the accompanying sauce. Service was lackluster and added to the overall subpar experience. Attitude of service was aloof and a bit pretentious. My husband ordered the pork chop and when it was brought out, we had to ask for a steak knife. The server just walked away and she walked back slamming the knife down the table. Literally a WTH moment. They had the aura of "We don't really care" which is very unfortunate. There's not enough oversight nor attention to the details here and for the overall expectations of what the dining experience here should be, they really missed the mark. Although I believe the attitude of the service overall reflects that of their management. Very disappointed that I cannot recommend Gemma, especially since they are a sister of Ember and Iron, which provides a vastly different experience. Though it's trendy now, I really hope that they work on improving upon their guests' experience to make it worth a return visit. read more

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Came here for my birthday dinner and sat in the rooftop area. I am glad the area was covered because it was raining that day. Gemma is a very beautiful restaurant and the staff was very friendly and accommodating. I tried the spicy mussels as my appetizer and they didn't disappoint. For my entree I got the seafood stuffed trout. I enjoyed it for my first time trying trout. My husband ordered the fried Mahi Mahi and omg it was delicious!! We also had the peach margaritas during happy hour and we had multiple so that should tell you they were good. read more

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Finally made it to Gemma Fish + Oyster and I will say it was for sure worth the wait but I will not be waiting long till I return. We made a reservation on a Friday night and were seated as soon as we arrived. Gemma is beautiful inside and was decked out for the holidays. They also had an amazing bar. Once seated we got drinks I went with a Dirty Vodka Martini which of course has the option to come with Blue Cheese Stuff Olives. If a bar/restaurant doesn't have them then you are getting a martini from the wrong place. Our drinks were amazing and so was the bartender. He even made sure to come check and see what we though of our drinks. We of course had to order appetizers and we went in on them! Butter Lettuce Salad Lobster Tempera Bao Buns Tuna Poke Stone Crab Cocktail Oysters too of course! All the appetizers were amazing but my favorite were for sure the oysters. They have a number of options to pick from too. The best oysters I have had in Jacksonville, not even close. They are also making all their own sauces for their oysters as well but they don't really need another since they are so fresh and tasty. You can't go wrong with any of these apps. For my entrée I was having a hard time picking but had to go with the Snapper which is served with Jasmine Rice, Glazed Vegetables, and Thai Red Curry Sauce. Let's face it they had me at Red Curry. The Snapper was cooked perfectly. Crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, not over cooked at all and was full of flavor. Some of the best Snapper I had ever had. The Thai Red Curry was also full of flavor I could put that sh*t on anything. What an amazing meal and service all around. If you haven't been to Gemma Fish + Oyster run don't walk to them. I know I'll be coming back soon! read more

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There is no greater love than going to a restaurant that is known for their delicious oysters and watching everyone eat oysters while you are unable to eat them. So this is not just a review it love letter to my husband. We went to Gemma on a Friday night and had outstanding service, like truly outstanding! From the bartender to our waiter to the hostess everyone was delightful! The restaurant is so upscale and you can tell they made sure to put extra thought into the fixtures and decor to really elevate the vibe. We were lucky to go with other foodies so for appetizers we ordered the following for the table: Butter lettuce salad Lobster baos Tuna poke Stone crab And various oysters *I cannot speak to the Tuna Poke or the Oysters (they ordered a second round so they must have been wonderful) but everything else was delicious with surprisingly the Butter lettuce being my favorite. For my dinner I ordered the shrimp and grits which was fantastic! The shrimps did have tails so if that is weird for you I would skip it but I do not mind the tails on as long as I can see that the tails are on and I could. The grits were creamy and the sauce was scrumptious. We will definitely be back and hopefully next time I can get some of those tasty looking oysters! read more

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Let this review be the reason you sprint into this place the next time you see the doors open. No....seriously. Everything about Gemma is top tier. From the prompt reservation seating, to the service, the ambiance, the knowledgeable staff... Oysters were phenomenal...lamb lollipops were amazing and the fried Mahi were terrific. Definitely going back. Many times. Can't wait till it's cooler to get that rooftop. Until then, I'll be in the main building read more

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Gema has great food and wines ! The ambiance is inviting and the staff were very accommodating! read more

This spot is gorgeous! Two floors of great atmosphere. We stopped in for a night cap and the staff was more than accommodating for our quick bite and bev. I enjoyed an old fashioned which was prepared perfectly. We also ordered a cheesy and crabby app and the most amazing pineapple rum cake . We took advantage of the roof top seating on a brisk night which would be an amazing date spot! read more

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