Mayport’s Singleton’s Seafood Shack Holds A Special Place In Florida’s Heart
Some places earn a reputation that stretches far beyond their hometown, and Singleton’s Seafood Shack in Mayport is one of them.
Tucked along the water near Jacksonville, this no-frills spot has been dishing out golden, crispy fried shrimp for decades.
Regulars know it as a slice of old Florida that never lost its charm, and newcomers quickly learn why people are willing to drive hours just to get a taste.
1. A Fisherman’s Legacy Since 1969
Captain Ray Singleton, a commercial fisherman with salt in his veins, established this waterfront gem over 50 years ago.
What began as a humble fish market selling the day’s catch quickly evolved when customers begged him to cook up their purchases on the spot.
The original building was little more than a wooden shack with a few tables, but its reputation for incredibly fresh seafood spread like wildfire throughout Northeast Florida.
Ray’s fishing knowledge ensured only the finest local catches made it to plates.
2. Rustic Charm That Tells a Story
Walking into Singleton’s feels like stepping aboard an old fishing vessel. Nautical artifacts hang from every available space, each with its own tale of the sea.
The wooden floors creak beneath your feet, worn smooth by decades of hungry patrons. Mismatched tables and chairs add to the no-frills atmosphere that locals cherish.
The restaurant’s weathered exterior, proudly displaying its age, stands as a defiant contrast to Jacksonville’s newer, polished establishments.
3. Blackened Shrimp That Will Haunt Your Dreams
Many restaurants claim seafood mastery, but Singleton’s blackened shrimp stands in a league of its own. These plump crustaceans, dusted with a secret blend of spices and seared to perfection, deliver an explosion of flavor that keeps locals coming back weekly.
The blackening technique creates a beautiful crust while maintaining the shrimp’s tender interior. Served alongside hushpuppies still sizzling from the fryer, this signature dish embodies Florida’s coastal cuisine.
The magic of Singleton’s comes from its location in historic Mayport Village, where shrimp boats unload their bounty just steps from the kitchen. This proximity means your seafood often travels less than 100 yards from boat to plate.
4. Southern Sides That Steal The Show
While seafood reigns supreme at Singleton’s, the Southern side dishes deserve their own standing ovation. The hushpuppies – golden-brown cornmeal fritters with a crispy exterior and soft, onion-flecked interior – arrive hot enough to steam when broken open.
Homemade coleslaw provides the perfect cool, crisp contrast to spicy seafood offerings. The cheese grits, creamy with sharp cheddar and a hint of garlic, convert even the most stubborn grits skeptics.
