Category: Featured Articles

For seafood lovers, choosing between tuna and salmon is a hard decision. Both are flavorful, nutritious options that make a satisfying meal for any appetite. That must be why they are two of the most popular fish choices in the United States. 

The abundance of heart-healthy fats in salmon and tuna give these fish a meaty texture and stronger flavor profiles than white, flaky choices, like cod. 

Color, Nutrition, and Taste

There are many great reasons to order market-fresh fish when out in Jacksonville dining, but unless you have the appetite of a whale, you probably have to limit yourself to one entrée. You already know that tuna and salmon are both delicious, but let’s look at some other fishy facts you may not have known. 

Color

Not many people choose their meal based on color, but there are a couple of important color differences between tuna and salmon that might sway your decision.

Tuna

The two types of fresh tuna most commonly available in restaurants near Jacksonville are Yellowfin (also known as ahi) and longfin (also known as albacore). Yellowfin tuna should be a dark pink to light red color before cooking. Fresh albacore is lighter, creamy pink before it’s cooked. 

The color comes from the myoglobin content in the fish. When heated, myoglobin turns white, which is why cooked tuna appears almost white, especially if overcooked.

Salmon

Salmon maintains its reddish-orange to deep pink color even after cooking. The salmon’s diet is responsible for its colorful flesh. The crustaceans and krill they eat are full of astaxanthin, which remains stable when heated. 

Nutrition

When it comes to nutrition, you can’t go wrong choosing either salmon or tuna. Both are high in protein and provide a wide range of nutrients.

Tuna

Tuna is the leading choice if you are restricting fat intake. Yellowfin tuna contains about 1g of fat in a 3-ounce portion, and 91mg of that is omega-3 fats. It’s also slightly higher in protein, providing 17g.

Salmon

Fish is always a lean choice, but salmon is one of the richest foods from the sea. It contains 124 calories per 3-ounce serving of wild Coho—about 25 more calories than tuna. 

It also contains 5g of fat (11g for farmed Atlantic), but that’s still low compared to almost 15g found in the same-sized portion of roast beef. If it’s omega-3 fats you’re looking for, you’ll be happy to know that wild salmon provides 1,120 mg, and farmed Atlantic contains almost double that amount.

Taste

Whether you’re selecting appetizers or entrées in your favorite Jacksonville dining establishment, it all comes down to taste. Both fish are sturdy enough to stand up to grilling, bold seasonings, and flavorful sauces and delicate enough to enjoy rare or raw (in sushi, for example). While they are both delicious, there is a big difference in how they taste.

Choose tuna if you prefer a lighter flavor and salmon if you’re in the mood for something more “fish forward.” Atlantic is milder than wild Coho or Sockeye, but all types of salmon have a robust and recognizable flavor. 

You’ve probably had a beachside appetizer (or two, or three) recently, whether you’re on vacation in Daytona, FL, or one of its sun-kissed residents.

 

Have you ever stopped between bites of some amazing bruschetta, seared ahi tuna, or spinach-crab-brie dip from one of the many outstanding Daytona Beach restaurants and wondered, hmm, when did appetizers become a thing?

 

Well, the next time you’re enjoying the ocean view with a friend over lunch, here’s some amusing history to spice up the conversation.

When Did “Starters” Start?

Appetizers (finger foods, hors d’oeuvre, something-to-munch-on, whatever you like to call them) have popped up in one form or another in practically every civilization since ancient times. Perhaps it’s some instinctual evolutionary throwback to our hunter-gatherer grazing days when little morsels of fruit and nuts set the tone for the long-awaited main course.

 

One of the first written accounts regarding appetizers came from the early third century B.C. when the Athenians began setting up smorgasbord-style buffets at their infamously wild parties. 

 

Like most new inventions, it wasn’t a hit off the bat. It needed a little work and time to evolve. Initially, the idea was criticized for featuring tiny portions of snails, sea urchins, and pickled cabbage that were not followed quickly enough by the main entrée, leaving everyone hungry and wanting more.

When Did Hors D’oeuvres Gain Popularity?

The term “appetizers” appears to have been coined nearly simultaneously in England and America in the 1860s, mainly to provide a global counterpart for the French “hors d’oeuvre.” A stylish supper in the 1890s may include both appetizers and hors d’oeuvres.

 

Hors d’oeuvre is the French word for appetizers, which you may recognize. In contrast to “appetizer,” which simply refers to amping up one’s hunger, “hors d’oeuvre” literally translates to “outside the masterpiece,” referring to the French belief that cuisine is a work of artistic expression.

 

An appetizer complements the main course and often comes as the first course of a multi-course supper. Appetizers are meant to whet the appetite in advance of the main dishes. As soon as the appetizers are served, guests eagerly anticipate the main course.

Classification of Appetizers

There are approximately seven kinds of appetizers at the moment, some of which you may be familiar with, while others may be worth additional exploration. These are:

• Cocktails
• Canape
• Salads
• Hors d’oeuvres
• Relishes/Crudite
• Soup & Consommé
• Chips & DIps

 

Whichever you choose, all appetizers should be big on flavor but little in portion and price.

Daytona Beach Restaurants

Appetizers praised by Daytona denizens include house-smoked salmon made with fresh Atlantic salmon, mustard dill glaze, toast points, and chive aioli. Another native-fav is the Buffalo Shrimp, which comes lightly seasoned and flash-fried with bleu cheese crumbles, bleu cheese aioli, and mild buffalo sauce. 

 

Both of these mouthwatering appetizers are available fresh from Stonewood Grill & Tavern, voted best restaurant in Daytona Beach by hungry locals.

We’ve Come a Long Way

Wow, we’ve come a long way from simple trays of fruit and salted sardines. Now, next time you’re seaside dining in Daytona Beach, you can appreciate the array of inspired recipes that grace today’s appetizer menus.

Keeping a New Year’s resolution might feel challenging, especially when there are so many amazing food possibilities in town. You may even be asking yourself, “What can I eat healthy at Sarasota restaurants?” Well, we have an answer! Here is a list of the top three guilt-free dishes that won’t jeopardize your New Year’s goals in 2022! 

If you’re looking to indulge in some of the best restaurants near Tampa, Stonewood Grill & Tavern has plenty of options that won’t affect your diet. It’s important to keep in mind that everyone has different resolutions. Someone may want to lose a few pounds, while another wants to gain muscle. Let’s take a look at delectable dishes that cater to both! 

1. Mouth-Watering Seafood

One of the most delicious and heart-healthy things you can eat is seafood! With plenty of Omega-3’s to go around, seafood restaurants near Tampa have fresh bites like house-smoked salmon, tuna steak, salmon bowls, Atlantic salmon, and shrimp platters! If we had to choose just one to delve into, the salmon bowls would win this round. 

Stonewood’s handcrafted salmon dish packs a powerful culinary punch! Chef Danny uses a ponzu ginger glaze and pairs the salmon with perfectly cooked jasmine rice. You’ll also get baby greens, crispy shallots, edamame, radishes, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, scallions, and avocado crème with this dish. Need we say more?

2. Scrumptious Salads

When most people think of salad, they think “bland.” But it doesn’t have to be that way! Switch up your salad basics for something more exciting and still nutritious. 

Sick of romaine lettuce? You can get vitamin K from other leafy vegetables like kale, cabbage, spinach, broccoli, and iceberg lettuce. This micronutrient plays a vital role in blood coagulation and bone health, so no matter which green you choose, your body will benefit! Then, throw in some fun stuff like almonds, walnuts, or grape tomatoes. 

If you’re looking to lose some weight this year, be more conservative with (or skip) ingredients like dressing and cheese. 

3. Protein-Packed Prime Rib

Prime rib is a festive favorite that’s slow-roasted, juicy, flavorful, and savory. It’s also one of the finest ways to turn an average meal into a true celebration! While prime rib is an excellent choice for a special event, it’s also delicious at Sarasota restaurants on a regular old weekday, too!

This delicious cut of meat is nutrient-rich with low amounts of calories and fats. Are you working on building muscle at the gym? No need for a protein shake when you have prime rib!

Our classic prime rib dish is made with corn-fed beef from the Midwest and served with a rosemary au jus and horseradish sauce. The flavor of prime rib is enhanced even more when it is matured, as we do at your local Stonewood Grill & Tavern. 

Plus, our exclusive spice combination complements the dish’s savory flavor perfectly. Prime rib is gradually cooked and frequently seared on the exterior when served. When all of these factors come together, you get the delectable, crowd-pleasing flavor of prime rib!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for family fun in Florida! And the joy is continuing to spread as the holiday festivities grow plentiful around our beautiful state. As you are planning your family outings and fun holiday excursions, your local Stonewood is honored to be along for the ride. Before or after you stop by your local Stonewood Grill, check out these great community events nearby. Just read on!

Ormond Beach

Located at the beautifully historic Rockefeller Gardens, Movies on the Halifax is an event your whole family can enjoy on December 10th at 6 p.m.! Grab a chair or blanket for this free event and get ready to enjoy the Grinch on the big screen. Click here to learn more. 

 

Daytona Beach

It’s a sight to see – the Daytona Beach Christmas Boat Parade! Swing by your nearby vantage point on the Halifax River on December 4th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and get ready to watch the beautifully festive boats stroll along the river. Spreading Christmas cheer, this holiday tradition is hosted by the Halifax River Yacht Club. Click here to learn more. 

 

Heathrow

Light up your holiday season with the whole family at the Winter Wonderland Tree Lighting and Toys For Tots Drive at Wekiva Island on December 3rd at 6 p.m.! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there to help light up the 20-feet-tall Christmas tree. Click here to learn more. 

 

Jacksonville

Ready for another free, family-friendly Christmas celebration? Well, Christmas in Avondale has you covered on December 4th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with activities and shopping the whole crew can enjoy! Click here to learn more. 

 

Tampa Palms

If you’re looking for a local-made Christmas festivity, then you have to check out the Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Fest. Fun for the whole family, this “open air festival” will feature local goods and art from local businesses all over the Tampa area on December 11tth from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and December 12th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Click here to learn more.

 

Brandon

Don’t be a Grinch this holiday season! Bring the kiddos to Sweet Tooth Cakery in Brandon to celebrate the season with make-your-own Grinch cupcakes, holiday cookie decorating, crafts, photo opportunities, games and prizes on December 18th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Click here to learn more.

 

North Sarasota

There’s just something about a Christmas tree lighting that really brings up that holiday joy! Check out the City Christmas Tree Lighting at Selby Five Points Park in Sarasota on December 2nd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Click here to learn more. 

 

Wellington Green

It’s a holiday worth a grand celebration! On December 12th at 1 p.m., join the city of Wellington for the 37th Annual Wellington Holiday Parade, featuring free festivities, floats, bands, characters, dancers and more. Click here to learn more. 

 

However you choose to celebrate this holiday season with your family, we hope it is filled with laughter and love. And if you’re ready to top off your festivities with even more happiness, stop by your local Stonewood Grill and Tavern for an unforgettable meal and experience. We’ll see you soon!

If you enjoy being the best gift-giver at any holiday festivity, then you know that sometimes it can be difficult to fill those shoes! But as your go-to for Jacksonville dining, we’re here to help make your life a little easier this holiday season. We have the gifts everyone in your family will love. So, this year be your friends and family’s best gift-giver with the gift of Stonewood. Here’s how!

Give Them What They’ve Been Craving

There’s nothing worse than watching your loved ones open your gift and instantly seeing their faces deflate. Let’s face it – some people can be really hard to shop for and we don’t always hit the nail on the head. But when you can give them exactly what they’ve been wanting, you can ensure happy faces all around. With a gift card to their favorite restaurant in Jacksonville, like Stonewood Grill & Tavern, you can ensure that they will be excited and hungry!

 

Put The Power Back In Their Hands

If you have a picky gift-getter in your circle, the ultimate key this holiday season will be to put the power back into their hands. Let them choose! How do you do that? You give them the ability to pick out exactly what they want with gift cards to their favorite spots. Gift cards are a great way to either give them something they’ve really been wanting but haven’t had the time to do it themselves, or just another reason to dive into their favorite dishes. With a gift card to Stonewood, you really can’t go wrong. They can use it to select their drinks, meals and desserts of choice, all while using it the way they want with in-person dining or curbside to-go.

 

Gift And You Will Receive

Another reason to opt for your favorite Jacksonville restaurants’ gift cards as your go-to gift this year is that when you choose to gift Stonewood, you will receive Stonewood back! Spread the joy this holiday season by purchasing $100 in Stonewood gift cards and receiving a $20 bonus card. Plus, each additional $50 gift card purchase receives another free $10 bonus card! Sign us up!

 

Whatever you decide to gift this holiday season, we hope you feel the joy of doing so! And if you do choose to give the gift of a Stonewood Grill & Tavern gift card, just remember your locally-owned restaurant is doing a little happy dance every time. We can’t wait to celebrate this holiday season with you!

Keep in mind – gift cards must be purchased before December 31, 2021, to receive bonus cards. Bonus cards begin January 1, 2022, through June 30, 2022. Click here to purchase today!

 

‘Tis the season for festive flavors and delicious dishes – and do we have the selection for you! This season, step up your food game and make every dish count with unforgettable flavors from your local Stonewood. We’re passionately bringing you the entrees and desserts you didn’t realize you were craving. Served at the Stonewood Grill and Tavern near you, check out these 6 must-try dishes!

 

Butternut Squash Bisque

Discover this unique dish inspired by the season – our Butternut Squash Bisque. This dish features a rich, sweet and creamy blend of butternut squash, granny smith apples, carrots, and a fall spice blend topped with a housemade sage crema and roasted pepitas. Is your mouth watering yet?

 

Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad

Setting a new standard of flavorful favorites, discover our Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad. This delectable dish includes house-roasted golden beets with a red beet coulis accompanied by fresh field greens with goat cheese crumbles, dried cranberries, and toasted almonds in a housemade honey-lime vinaigrette. Yes, please!

 

Mushroom Ragu With Grilled Chicken

With a taste that packs a punch, the new Mushroom Ragu with Grilled Chicken is another must-try this season! Featuring a slow-cooked, hearty blend of wild mushrooms and rosemary-infused red wine tomato sauce over rigatoni pasta, this dish is topped with hern marinated grilled chicken with freshly grated parmesan. Yum!

 

Kona Beef Tenderloin

For a fresh take on beef tenderloins, you have to try the flavorful Kona Beef Tenderloin. This mouthwatering dish features beef tenderloin skewers seasoned with our signature Kona rub blend, oak-grilled to perfection atop a roasted fall heirloom vegetable medley with cinnamon-infused cranberries and accented with a housemade savory sage crema sauce. Hungry yet?

 

Pesto Encrusted Chilean Seabass

You don’t want to miss this – our Pesto Encrusted Chilean Seabass! This delicious delight features tender, buttery Chilean seabass topped with a basil pesto crust served atop fresh marinated grilled asparagus and creamy corn risotto. Here come the cravings!

 

Pecan Pie Ala Mode

Get ready to fall in love with the Pecan Pie Ala Mode! This to-die-for dessert features a sweet, gooey, nutty pie on a buttery pie crust and is served with a creamy cinnamon ice cream. 

 

Don’t miss out on these limited-time dishes from your best restaurants in Tampa! Whether you have a sweet tooth or a savory one, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. And once you’ve given your tastebuds a celebration with each delectable dish, be sure to let us know which one blew your socks off the most!

This holiday season, we’re bringing you more reasons to smile! If one thing is for certain it is that there is something on the Stonewood menu for everyone in the family. That’s why we’ve curated our customer favorites into special holiday season surprises you don’t want to miss. Read on for how you can make this Thanksgiving special with a little help from your favorite restaurants in Florida.

 

Bring The Feast Home

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take it easy this year with the ability to bring on the feast without sweating it in the kitchen. Introducing Stonewood’s Thanksgiving Bundles! You and your loved ones have worked hard this year. So let us take care of your Thanksgiving meals! You can pick up your choice Thanksgiving Bundle that generously serves 4 to 6 people for $125. The feast favorites include roasted turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, savory sausage stuffing, green beans, cranberry relish, family salad, bread and cookies. The catch? There are only limited quantities available, so reserve your bundle today!

 

Let Us Do The Cooking 

On Thanksgiving, bring the crew by and let us do the cooking! Our restaurants will be open and ready to serve you this Thanksgiving. In addition to our regular menu, we will be serving a traditional, oven-roasted, hand-carved turkey dinner with all the trimmings and delicious sides. From the savory sausage stuffing to the cranberry relish, your whole family is sure to leave with full bellies and full hearts. Make a reservation today and we will save you a seat!

 

The Choice Is Yours

With either the to-go bundle or the dine-in special, you are able to choose from a variety of delicious Thanksgiving options. Choose from your favorite trimmings and sides, and make your Thanksgiving plate exactly how you’ve dreamt it all year long. We are dedicated to giving you options, so this Thanksgiving, get exactly what you’re craving with Stonewood. 

 

There’s nothing quite like enjoying delicious foods while celebrating your favorite holidays. This Thanksgiving you don’t have to miss out on your favorites from your favorite Florida restaurants, and you don’t have to worry about all the work that may go into enjoying mouthwatering flavors. With us, we’re giving thanks to you this Thanksgiving by making it easy to enjoy foods the whole family will love. Ready to order a bundle or make a reservation? Give us a call today!

Whether your favorite food comes from the sea or you just enjoy a nice seafood dish here and there, you may be surprised to find out that seafood actually has a plethora of health benefits for many people! As one of the best seafood restaurants in Ormond Beach, we are passionate about bringing delicious seafood to your table. That’s why we’re exploring the reasons why our Ormond Beach seafood is good for your appetite and good for your health. Just read on!

 

Stay Sharp: Bring On The Brain Health

Seafood has been shown to improve your brain’s overall health, from memory to emotion. The Omega-3s in seafood can help to prevent a mental decline as you grow older and to boost cognitive function. Many studies have shown that seafood may also reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. 

 

But seafood doesn’t only bring on cognitive benefits and long-term brain boosts, it can also benefit mental health. From preventing mental health disorders like depression to treating them, the Omega 3 fatty acids commonly found in seafood can increase moods, increase the effectiveness of antidepressant medications, and ail in other mental health conditions, like bipolar disorder. 

 

The Essentials: Fuel Up On Nutrients

Studies have shown that fish is one of the best dietary sources for a variety of nutrients, and your body needs key nutrients to stay healthy! Many Americans are deficient in vitamin D, but seafood can pack that much-needed punch. Other essential nutrients found in seafood can include vitamin B, B-complex and vitamin A. 

 

Omega-3 fatty acids, like DHA, are often recommended for those experiencing growth and development, from children to pregnant women. Especially for brain and eye development, the Omega-3s found in seafood can help keep you healthy now and promote a healthier future. 

 

Prone To Prevent: Stay Protected With A Little Help

You may be surprised to find out the multitude of ailments that seafood can help prevent! As discussed earlier, the nutrients in seafood can help prevent things like depression and Alzheimer’s, but it can also prevent a variety of other risks. 

 

Seafood can lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes – the two most common causes of premature death in the world – thanks to being high in protein and low in saturated fats. Seafood can prevent joint pain and symptoms of arthritis. Seafood can prevent eyesight deterioration and age-related macular degeneration as you grow old. Seafood can help to prevent asthma in children. Seafood can reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases, like type 1 diabetes. 

There’s obviously more to love about seafood from your favorite seafood restaurants in Ormond Beach than just the flavor and satisfaction. Seafood also provides a variety of health benefits that you may find applicable to your own life. While seafood may not be the cure, it can definitely be used as a tool to further your health and wellness journey. Just another reason to love seafood from Stonewood!

Fall in Florida is one of the best seasons of the year! With so many events and activities to enjoy on top of the beautiful weather, there’s nothing quite like this time of year. As one of the best Sarasota restaurants that families love to dine at, we are excited to bring you Sarasota events that the whole family can enjoy this fall. Just read on!

 

Florida Countryfest

Featuring country artists like Craig Campbell and James Otto, the Florida Countryfest will take place in Downtown Sarasota, November 12-14, 2021. Head to JD Hamel Park to enjoy an outdoor music experience, celebrating all things country! Click here to learn more.

Orchid Show at Selby Gardens

From October 9th to November 28, 2021, you and your family can enjoy the Annual Orchid Show at the Downtown Sarasota campus of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Focusing on a variety of themes and featuring special lectures, classes and events, this year’s event is combining the circus with orchids to bring you “The Orchid Show 2021: Aerialists from the Tree Top to the Big Top.” Click here to learn more.

Sarasota Fall Fine Art Festival

For all those inspired by art, this one is for you! The 8th Annual Sarasota Fall Fine Art Festival in downtown Sarasota will feature an outdoor gallery of original, handmade works by artisans from across Florida and throughout the United States. Head to JD Hamel Park November 20-21, 2021 to enjoy this special event, and click here to learn more.

Garden Music Series

Celebrating a wide breadth of music, the Garden Music Series in Sarasota offers an eclectic variety of local and international music in a breathtaking garden. This event is included with standard admission into the gardens. Click here to learn more.

Festival of the Skeletons

Hosted by the Village of the Arts, your family can enjoy a Dia de Los Muertos celebration of life on November 5th and 6th! Enjoy the galleries, shops, restaurants, live music, and tasty treats as you embark on the Artwalk and enjoy all the holiday festivities. Click here to learn more.

 

We hope you are able to take part in some fall fun with your family and friends this season! Whether it’s one of the above events or a fall discovery of your own, we’re always here to make your season that much brighter. To top off your fall adventures, swing by your local Stonewood and enjoy the fresh flavors of the season for a remarkable experience that you won’t forget. We can’t wait to serve you soon!

What better way to commemorate a major life event or celebrate an exciting new endeavor than with group dining at your favorite Ormond Beach steak and seafood restaurant? Stonewood Grill is happy to accommodate your next gathering, from bridal showers to birthday dinners. Read on to explore 4 ways you enjoy your next celebration at Stonewood Grill!

 

Bridal & Baby Showers

Whether it’s the beginning of a new marriage or the beginning of a growing family, no celebration is complete without a delicious meal. And at Stonewood Grill, we know what it takes to have an incredible bridal or baby shower. Our group dining options allow you to celebrate all things new while devouring the delicious flavors of all things Stonewood. 

 

Corporate Events

Create a great atmosphere with a corporate event held at your local Ormond Beach steak restaurant, Stonewood Grill! Build relationships, speak vision and encourage productivity with a meaningful gathering outside of the office. Whether you’re celebrating a huge accomplishment or building a positive work culture, Stonewood Grill is the place to do it!

 

Family Reunions

Reunite in style with a family gathering at Stonewood Grill! There’s no better way to reconnect with family members you may not have seen in a while than over some delicious steak and seafood. Big or small, your family is welcome to dine with us through our group dining options – from our family to yours!

 

Birthday Dinners

Another year around the Sun calls for some mouthwatering celebration! Gather your crew and get ready to have the best birthday at your favorite Ormond Beach seafood restaurant. No matter how many trips you’ve taken around the Sun, we welcome you to dine with us and celebrate Stonewood style! 

 

There are so many ways to celebrate with your local Stonewood Grill! And gathering with those you love and appreciate most is done best over the flavor-packed choices off our Stonewood menu. Next time you’re planning a group event, keep us in mind! We can’t wait to serve you soon.