Velchoff's Corner

Let me start off by saying I don't want to offend the locals, but someone please tell me how Palatka, FL has been blessed with this gem of a restaurant. After eating at some other local places my hotel recommended, I decided to walk across the grass to try Velchoff's. I asked about a bar, and they directed me past the food truck (which I thought was cooking for the outdoor tables). I walked in, was immediately greeted and took at seat at the bar. The ambiance was that of a speakeasy, and there were many choices for drinks.I ordered the blackened mahi and shrimp, and let em tell you, I live in Savannah now, and there is not one restaurant there who can touch what I ate tonight...none! I've live in Europe for 9 years, and all over the U.S., and this simple meal ranks easily in the top 10 I've ever had. The food is fresh, locally sourced, some grown on site. The flavors are balanced and complimentary to each other; just all around composed well! I ended with the bourbon glazed bread pudding with an old fashioned. One of the best bread puddings I've had. I may not have to come to Palatka again for work, but I will definitely exit 95 to swing through and eat here in the future. Oh, and I forgot to mention, the food truck...yeah, all of the food is cooked in it....RIDICULOUS!!! This place is slaying it!

Out west today for work, we made our way into the coolest place in Palatka called Velchoff's Corner They have indoor seating but also a really cool outdoor space! They cook out of the food truck and pump out some seriously good stuff! We shared a burger topped with pimento cheese and a fried green tomato, cooked perfectly with these amazingly seasoned scratch made fries And this chicken sandwich with slaw, come back sauce and pickles, with a side of the most amazing, creamy cheesy grits! The food was OUTSTANDING, very well made with quality ingredients, the service was excellent and the environment was cool! Definitely don't overlook this place if you are out there! We can't wait to return!

About once a month, we make the trip from Tampa to Saint Augustine to see our grandchildren. While, there's a direct route on the interstates, tend to avoid that because it takes us through Orlando, which is hell on earth. Alternatively, we take a route on I 75 to go north of Ocala and then start taking the back roads to Saint Augustine, which brings you through beautiful scenery, as well as many little towns. A couple of months ago we stopped in Palatka and had a Sunday brunch at this restaurant. It was their first or second Sunday brunch so they were working out some kinks and still very delicious. I may have even reviewed it back then. So today we're on our regular journey to Saint Augustine and decided to stop in again and try their regular menu. We were not disappointed. It took us quite a while to figure out what we were gonna have. Joannie chose their burger of the day, which was a two patty smash burgerwith caramelized onions with a dat cream sauce on Texas toast with a side of their comeback slaw. I opted for their cracker Swamp burger, which is a blackened burger with onion straws, a comeback sauce, which is a special creation of theirs, couple of cheese and a fried egg.

With perfect weather, we enjoyed sitting outside. (indoor seating is also available). The kitchen is in a food truck. Our server, Zoey, was friendly and attentive. I enjoyed the grilled oysters, although one of the three was not hot. The shrimp and grits were excellent. The fried green tomatoes were OK. I was disappointed in the beignets. The inside was tough, rather than light. I didn't mention this to our server, so perhaps this was an unusual batch. I would return for the ambiance and the service.

Wow, what a great find! Housed in a historic building, this charming restaurant serves up really comforting and well-prepared southern fare. My blue crab and corn chowder was an easy 10/10. My friend's daughter enjoyed her chicken gumbo. My friend's whole fried branzino looked very appetizing and tasted wonderful, she said. We were all impressed with the quality and quantity of dishes that came out. Service was friendly and helpful. They had plentiful seating indoors and outdoors. I think the bar scene could be fun based on the looks of their setup. During the day, this restaurant works for families and people on day dates alike. I would highly recommend this restaurant if you are exploring Palatka or coming back from the spectacular Ravines Garden State Park (also recommend). I have read and heard that north Florida feels more southern culturally than its southern portion, and this restaurant definitely provides beautifully prepared dishes representative of or inspired by southern cuisine.

Delish! This was our second time here months apart (it makes a perfect halfway point for a visit to St. Augustine). We arrived for lunch on a Saturday, busy but not overwhelming since we were early - I expect they get a line soon enough. Hostess was very friendly and let us choose our seat - they have beautiful outdoor options! Our waiter, Colby, was great too. Hubby got the burger special (horseradish, caramelized onions and swiss) and I got 2 starters (avocado toast and cajun chicken bites). Portion were more than adequate and we devoured this yummy food! We have decided the hour+ drive will be worth a date night and will come more often :)

Velchoff's where to begin? I loved it ! It was love at first sight type of deal . I came with the work crew on our lunch break, we sat outside, and it was blissful. I love how the food was prepared in the tin crate. Everything was so fresh, tasty, and perfectly seasoned. So good! Prices were great! The fries were the best! I am from California and it has been rough finding a restaurant in FL with good fries. Velchoff's for the win !KUDOS: PLEASE GIVE OUR WAITRESS AMY SHE WAS STELLAR!!

Just a stumble on to this place and Wowed by the service and food! Coming back soon!

Food was delicious and server very attentive, although they were short staffed. We were able to have our dog sit with us at the outdoor table, which nearby Corky Bells does not allow, so that's a big plus for us.

Outstanding fare! Good service and good entertainment! Great piemento spread! Good size portions! Will be back!