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 Tasting New Smyrna Beach

A retro gem on Florida's northeastern coast

by Susie Ellison

With great surfing conditions year-round and miles of white sand, New Smyrna Beach is a magnet for board riders and sun seekers. But the hip surf town on Florida’s northeastern coast also has a vibrant arts scene, deep historic roots, and a sophisticated approach to food and wine.

The sustainability ethos is strong in NSB — in addition to its Atlantic coastline, the town shares waterfront with the Indian River and Ponce de Leon inlet, a biosphere that supports thousands of species of birds, fish and mammals, including dolphins and manatees. Freshness and sustainability are also the buzzwords of the contemporary Florida food scene and with its easy access to coastal fisheries and inland farms, NSB is a great place for chefs –and diners – to be.

A walking food tour with Eat NSB is a smart way to get a feel for the local culinary scene. Founder Kelly Laub moved to NSB a few years ago and was amazed by the quality and variety of the town’s restaurants and culinary artisans. Eat NSB was founded out of a passion to share her enthusiasm for the chefs and entrepreneurs giving a new expression to American coastal cuisine.

A Foodie's Paradise in New Smyrna Beach

By Terris Schneider

It is just a short jaunt from grey winter cold. I join my fellow snowbirds and disembark into the glittering sunshine of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. I’ve been counting down the days on my desk-calendar to my Visit Florida Tour. New Smyrna Beach reminds me of the small town charms of my childhood, and I’m immediately rejuvenated by the warm ocean breeze. 

Settling in to the Hampton Inn New Smyrna Beach, I find the congenial atmosphere infectious. We’re surrounded by palm trees and greenery, and are a short stroll from the calm white sandy shore. This is the first established hotel in the area, and its longevity is a testament to its endearing quality. There is a hot debate about whether New Smyrna Beach is actually the oldest American city, as opposed to the nearby St. Augustine (which we will be visiting in the next few days.)

We leisurely stroll through town on our epic Eat NSB Food Tour, admiring boutiques and cafes along the way. No Starbucks in sight (phew). All the businesses are locally owned, unique and full of character. New Smyrna Beach is particularly interesting because there are two districts with completely different vibes. I am wide-eyed and taking it all in. There’s the Canal district, which is more historic and for the artsier crowd; and then there’s Flagler, the beach side, which we’ll be exploring tonight (stay tuned!)