ORANGE PARK, Fla. – Grumpy’s in Orange Park is already bustling at 10 a.m. on a Wednesday, with the parking lot packed before the doors even open.
The vibe at Grumpy’s is anything but grumpy.
Daniel Deleon, the owner since 2019, shares what makes Grumpy’s stand out.
“We want you to know servers’ names, employees’ names. You should know the managers and get to know the cooks and vice versa. Get to know our customers and family and know what’s going on in the community,” Deleon said.
Grumpy’s is more than a restaurant; it’s a community hub.
“We really want to be that central community hub, where everyone can come whether it’s a business hub, retirees, we have new mothers or old PE teachers who can come dine at any time,” Deleon said.
One touching moment captured was a dad and daughter sharing their last dinner before her wedding, highlighting the hometown feel Grumpy’s fosters.
The food is a highlight, with chicken tenders, house-made waffles, berry butter, and honey hot sauce that offers a sweet and spicy kick.
The menu also features standout items like a cinnamon roll stacked on pancakes with walnuts, icing, and powdered sugar, a favorite among customers.
The community’s support is evident as it beat out fellow finalists Ellen’s Kitchen, Maple Street Biscuit Company and Metro Diner to claim the title of Best Breakfast in our JAXBest 2025 contest.
Grumpy’s has five locations around the Jacksonville area for anyone who wants to try it out:
- Orange Park: 834 Kingsley Ave. (Open 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m.)
- Middleburg: 1805 Blanding Blvd., # 107 (Open 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m.)
- St. Johns: 155 Fountains Way, # 1 (Open 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.)
- Neptune Beach: 200 3rd St. (Open 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.)
- Wildlight (Yulee): 76030 William Burgess Blvd, # 6 (Open 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m.)
For more information, to check out the menu or to contact your local Grumpy’s, go to www.grumpysrestaurantco.com.
A special thanks to our JAXBest sponsor, Farah & Farah!