Jacksonville’s burger hunt ends at Carolina Jax, where fresh 80/20 chuck gets smashed perfectly, topped with chili, pulled pork, or mac ‘n cheese in a former food truck turned Riverside powerhouse.
Named Best Burger by First Coast News and 2019 Hamburger House Party Champs, it delivers crispy-edged patties, hand-cut Idaho fries, and Jax sauce that hooks every diner.
It’s the kind of place where one Tar Heel has you plotting your next loaded fry fix.
How they won locals’ hearts
Carolina Jax evolved from Cackylacky’s food truck to Oak Street brick-and-mortar, grinding top 10% 80/20 chuck daily for simple smashes and wild signatures.
The Tar Heel (cheddar, bacon, poblano mayo, gold sauce, pulled pork, onion ring) steals shows as Yelp’s most-ordered, with Bacon Cheddar and Hurricane (mac ‘n cheese, jalapeños) close behind.
Reviewers rave about “top 3 burgers in the city,” crispy smash edges, fresh toppings, and hefty loaded fries that serve as meals—perfect for Riverside hangs.
Veggie options like Beyond patties ($2 upcharge) and premium toppings keep everyone happy, while dogs and sammies round out the craveable menu.
Quick counter service, outdoor seating, and family vibes make it Jacksonville’s go-to for lunch rushes or weekend crowds.
Food Highlights
- Tar Heel Signature Burger: Sharp cheddar, bacon, roasted poblano mayo, gold sauce, pulled pork, onion ring, Jax’s stacked superstar under $15.
- Classic Simple Burger: American cheese, Jax sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle purist smash perfection for $11.
- Bacon Cheddar Simple Burger: Sharp cheddar, applewood bacon, Jax sauce, standard veggies, the reliable crowd-pleaser.
- Hurricane Burger: Double patties, mac ‘n cheese, jalapeños, “top five burgers of all time” comfort bomb.
- Black Mountain Signature Burger: Baby Swiss, mayo, grilled onion, baby bellas earthy upgrade for mushroom fans.
- Patty Melt: Burger on Texas toast, grilled onions, Jax sauce, American cheese, greasy, melty bliss.
Atmosphere
Carolina Jax owns a trendy Riverside energy cozy indoor counter, outdoor patio seating, and vibes packed by 5:30pm weekdays for quick, flavorful escapes.
Guests love the “fast and efficient” service, clean space, and shareable loaded fries amid a menu that balances simple smashes with innovative stacks.
Family- and group-friendly with takeout pros, it draws locals for daily craves without downtown pretension.
Bottom Line
Carolina Jax smashes Jacksonville’s freshest 80/20 burgers with Tar Heel stacks, Hurricane wildness, and fries worth sharing.
Oak Street’s champ delivers every time.
Address:
Carolina Jax
2548 Oak St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
📞 (904) 240‑1980
🕔 Mon: Closed | Tue-Sat: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Sun: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM