It only takes a quick look at the inside of this restaurant at lunchtime to remember an excellent truth about Yelp: Beware of one star reviews from people from out of town who only have one review. Because a packed restaurant has to be doing something right.
Homestyle Eatery is a welcome addition to the Jacksonville food scene, which was in sore need of a meat and three. Located in the old Heirloom Taco location, it's quaint, cozy, and staffed by the most delightful ladies. I think one of my favorite memories of eating here was the night that a couple and their baby came in while we were eating. They were clearly regulars, and when the baby got fussy, the ladies came over and took turns entertaining him so his parents could eat while the food was hot. That's the level of service we've come to expect at this place.
The food is fantastic. The collard greens are some of the best I've eaten anywhere, and their desserts are to die for. Pro tip: they do run out of desserts, so if you hear about one that you want when you first sit down, order it ahead of time to make sure you get some. I always do this for their banana pudding, which is scrumptious.
Another clue that the food is terrific: the okra is hand battered and fried. No frozen okra that every other place has. This is the real thing. read more