Now open: Hayward House transforms Andrew's Downtown into chic bistro

Table Of Content

• Our Restaurant Rating Method
• Best Restaurants in Tallahassee Compared
• FIRST LOOK: 'Hayward House' to replace Andrew's Downtown in Tallahassee; see what's in the works
• Azu Lucy Ho’s
• Tallahassee Downtown Market
• Former Andrew's restaurant site has new name: A sneak peek at what's coming
• See inside: Hayward House transforms famous corner into chic downtown Tallahassee bistro

From using local foods, artists and staying true to the season, Mackenzie says her sister has embraced the spirit of Tallahassee. Adams St. adds a homey ambiance to the downtown spot that over the years has drawn tourists, politicos, lobbyists and journalists. Breaking bread together is one of our most social human activities, and I’m convinced that food is the key to knowing a place and its people. There are lots of renditions of the Middle Eastern dish, shakshuka – with two poached eggs atop a tomatoey base.

Our Restaurant Rating Method

Looking for fun events? Top 5 things to do on New Year's Eve in Tallahassee - Tallahassee Democrat

Looking for fun events? Top 5 things to do on New Year's Eve in Tallahassee.

Posted: Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Comprised of tequila and peach puree, the craft cocktail's namesake is a play off the history of the once-vacant square, now home to City Hall, where citizens would park their horses and mules when in town. “I think what they’ve achieved is a very warming, almost baroque, inviting atmosphere,” Mackenzie said. “It’s meant to be an elevated bistro experience where it’s good food, good company, anyone's welcome, but you’re gonna get top-notch service, food, the aesthetic and experience." The waffle flight is a hearty dish with four or five waffles, each with different toppings such as fresh strawberries, whipped cream, tasty honey butter chicken, maple bacon and a peanut-butter banana mix. The waffles could have been a bit warmer but otherwise a fun, filling dish to start the day. Hayward has received raves for its Southern fried chicken sandwich, which I will have to try soon, but on this visit I opted for a comforting main dish of braised short ribs with a meaty, slow-cooked ragu sauce.

Best Restaurants in Tallahassee Compared

We knew their salads were perfectly sized as a meal portion; however, we went for it in an attempt to “try a bit of everything”. The concept is to take small groups to various wine regions, meeting the requests of those who have witnessed the couple's travels on social media and have asked to tag along as well. The wine shop initially contributed to a renaissance of the long-moribund downtown business district that had ceded a variety of retail shops in the 20th century to lobbying and PR firms in the 21st. Aside from their delectable farm-fresh meals, their warm and rustic ambiance gave me a sense of comfort. Backwoods Crossing is number one on our list because every dish from its kitchen is flavorful and made with the freshest local ingredients. As a parent and seasoned food and travel blogger, I have spent significant time in Tallahassee to familiarize myself with its food culture.

FIRST LOOK: 'Hayward House' to replace Andrew's Downtown in Tallahassee; see what's in the works

Those who crave home-cooked dishes and a warm atmosphere will fall in love with The Bada Bean. In order to properly compare Tallahassee’s top restaurants, you need to consider their cuisine and overall atmosphere. These are buttery, golden-brown croissants with a cinnamon-vanilla egg batter, fresh berries, powdered sugar, caramel sauce, and whipped cream. Bella Bella is one of the most popular restaurants to try delicious traditional Italian-inspired cuisine. Here, you can enjoy delectable cuisine from different countries in Asia, exquisite sushi rolls, classic bento boxes, vegetarian options, and so much more. This place is also known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff who will treat you like family.

Azu Lucy Ho’s

And at Kool Beanz Cafe, the experience was entirely different because of their funky and vibrant atmosphere. The best restaurants in Tallahassee that deliver are Azu Lucy Ho’s, Masa, and Sahara Cafe. The most popular restaurants in Tallahassee are Backwoods Crossing, The Bada Bean, and Kool Beanz Cafe.

Tallahassee Downtown Market

The bistro menu will feature classic American food with a twist, said Chaney, adding items will be a nod to her travels, Canadian background and some French influences. Other main dishes include mussels or steak frites, redfish on the half shell and chargrilled cauliflower. A recent addition is a 12-ounce Cheshire pork chop, bone-in, with a honey garlic  glaze and Southern succotash. Adams St. location until May 29; tastings and events will help close out the space. The Shell Oyster Bar, dating back to 1938, is a renowned eatery serving oysters and other seafood dishes. It features a contemporary space with Eastern-accented touches, delicious dishes prepared by experienced chefs, and comfortable seats.

Backwoods Crossing (Editor’s Choice)

The Maple Street Biscuit Company is the ideal option if you’re looking for local restaurants to enjoy a relaxed breakfast with your travel buddies. This fantastic eatery boasts craft beers, indoor and outdoor dining opportunities, catering services for special events, funky decorations, and signature cocktails. It offers gourmet dishes, an aesthetically pleasing interior with modern paintings, an intimate vibe, and a patio for outdoor dining. Reangthai Restaurant specializes in classic and authentic Thai dishes served in a cozy dining room with moody lighting. This fabulous eatery features a relaxed atmosphere, an outdoor sitting area backed by scenic nature views, and mouth-watering dishes prepared from the freshest ingredients. From sophisticated fine-dining restaurants to quirky cafes and locally-owned eateries, you have plenty of restaurants in Tallahassee.

Former Andrew's restaurant site has new name: A sneak peek at what's coming

She recalled moments in the store's greenhouse room, where groups gathered at large tables to share meals, drinks and conversations, starting as strangers, leaving as friends. More recently, however, the revival of the old Andrew's restaurant into the Hayward House and the long-awaited reopening of the Governor's Inn, just a few doors down, at least cemented some hospitality life into the area. "We love Tallahassee, and it has been so good to us," Poco Vino owner Amanda Morrison said in an interview Monday with the Tallahassee Democrat. "You know, I'm in hospitality and so you just want to reach everyone, and you want to serve everyone and share that experience. This is going to give us that opportunity too." I also interviewed some of the friendly restaurant staff and conversed with local diners whom I met during my visits. I dined multiple times at each of the mentioned restaurants and got to know the visionaries behind these establishments.

This fabulous restaurant boasts courteous staff, a laid-back space, catering services for special events, and an extensive menu of mouth-watering dishes. This magnificent eatery offers beautifully plated dishes, an eclectic menu of international and locally-inspired cuisine, elegant decor, and a relaxed space. From Canadian to French and Asian fare, the brunch, lunch and dinner menus offer a fusion of flavors.

The event aspect keeps Tallahassee and other regions engaged in a way that is true to the couple's brand. This branch is for pop-up events that partner up with chefs and other brands to create wine dinners and experiences that bring people together and educate them simultaneously. Have an unforgettable dining experience with your companions at one of the coolest restaurants in the city, Masa. This well-known eatery is one of the best restaurants downtown, offering an aesthetically pleasing interior, well-presented dishes, and various promotions throughout the year.

It boasts a vibrantly decorated interior, accommodating staff, an extensive menu of delectable dishes, and a relaxed vibe. The Backwoods Crossing is one of the top Tallahassee restaurants, boasting beautifully plated dishes and an extensive selection of fine wine, beer, and cocktails. "Guests can expect American classics on the menu with a modern twist," shared Chaney.

For those looking to enjoy a spontaneous, quick gathering for a cocktail and conversation, give a little extra time for your meetup – it’s likely you’ll find yourselves lingering a bit longer than expected. The warm and welcoming atmosphere will entice you to indulge in an array of delicious options from their menu featuring flavors inspired by the owners’ heritage and travels. Each dish told a story, resonating with the tastes of their hometowns and the adventures they have embarked upon.

To step inside, I was blown away by the transformation of this space and how quickly they pulled it off. It was fun to remember “what was here and what was there” when it was Andrew’s. "When we opened up the shop, the goal was to build a lifestyle brand where people could trust us with fine wines, memorable events, incredible dinners and other experiences," Corbella said.

Adams Street has historically served as the center of mercantile and business in Tallahassee. The landmark corner of Adams Street was once inhabited by Dr. Thomas Hayward, the town doctor, as a residential home for his family in the 1920s. Most recently, the corner was known as Andrew's Downtown, a go-to grill and bar.

The setting has a homey touch with small curtains on rods separating booths. For the first time ever, I actually said “no” to dessert because we ate so much and had a New Year’s Eve party to get to, while my husband simultaneously said “yes”, so we ordered two desserts, of course! The chocolate mousse is a melt in your mouth indulgence, with layers of rich, silky-smooth chocolate mousse topped with whip cream and mint.