Tortuga Jacks located on the scenic Jekyll Island is a beloved dining destination that offers guests a rich variety of coastal cuisine and refreshing beverages. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views, this eatery serves up a menu that reflects the local flavors and culinary traditions of the Georgia coast.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a relaxed dinner, or just a cold drink by the water, Tortuga Jacks provides a satisfying experience for visitors of all tastes. The menu is thoughtfully curated to include fresh seafood, hearty options, and creative cocktails, making it a perfect spot for families, couples, and groups alike.
Overview of the Menu
The menu at Tortuga Jacks focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the best of coastal cuisine. Seafood plays a starring role, with many dishes featuring shrimp, crab, fish, and oysters sourced locally whenever possible.
Alongside these, there are delicious appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and mains that cater to various preferences.
In addition to food, the drink menu is extensive, offering craft beers, signature cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. The bar itself is a popular spot for those looking to unwind while enjoying live music or the beautiful island sunset.
“Tortuga Jacks is not just a restaurant, it’s an experience where every bite tells a story of Jekyll Island’s rich coastal heritage.”
Appetizers
Starting your meal with an appetizer from Tortuga Jacks sets the tone for a delightful dining experience. Their starters are designed to be shareable, flavorful, and a great introduction to the flavors of the region.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Green Tomatoes | Crispy, golden fried green tomato slices served with a tangy remoulade sauce. | $8.95 |
| Steamed Peel & Eat Shrimp | Fresh local shrimp steamed and lightly seasoned, served with cocktail sauce. | $12.50 |
| Crab Dip | Creamy blend of crab meat, cheeses, and spices, served warm with tortilla chips. | $11.95 |
| Oyster Shooters | Fresh oysters served in a spicy cocktail sauce shot glass, perfect for a quick kickstart. | $9.50 |
| Conch Fritters | Golden fried conch bites with a zesty dipping sauce, a Caribbean-inspired favorite. | $10.25 |
Salads & Soups
Tortuga Jacks offers a selection of fresh salads and hearty soups that complement their seafood and sandwich offerings. These are ideal for lighter meals or as starters to a larger feast.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Caesar Salad | Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing with croutons and shaved Parmesan. | $9.00 |
| Jekyll Island Salad | Mixed greens with pecans, cranberries, goat cheese, and a citrus vinaigrette. | $10.50 |
| Seafood Chowder | Rich and creamy chowder featuring shrimp, crab, and local fish in a savory broth. | $8.75 (cup) / $12.00 (bowl) |
| Low Country Shrimp Salad | Chilled shrimp tossed with fresh vegetables and a light herb dressing. | $11.25 |
Sandwiches & Burgers
The sandwich section of the menu at Tortuga Jacks offers hearty, flavorful options that are perfect for a casual meal. Each sandwich is served with a side of fries or a fresh salad, giving guests a satisfying combination.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Blackened Mahi Sandwich | Fresh mahi-mahi seasoned and blackened, served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. | $14.95 |
| Crab Cake Sandwich | Hand-formed crab cake, lightly fried, with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce. | $16.50 |
| Classic Cheeseburger | Juicy beef patty topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. | $12.95 |
| Shrimp Po’ Boy | Crispy fried shrimp on a French roll with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo. | $15.25 |
| Veggie Wrap | Grilled seasonal vegetables, mixed greens, and hummus wrapped in a flour tortilla. | $11.00 |
Main Courses & Entrées
The entrée selection at Tortuga Jacks highlights the best of coastal Georgia’s seafood and regional flavors. These dishes are crafted to provide a memorable dining experience with generous portions and rich tastes.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Shrimp Skewers | Marinated shrimp grilled to perfection, served with rice pilaf and seasonal vegetables. | $18.75 |
| Stuffed Flounder | Flounder fillet stuffed with crabmeat and baked, served with garlic mashed potatoes. | $22.50 |
| Seafood Platter | A generous selection of fried shrimp, scallops, and fish served with hush puppies and cole slaw. | $24.95 |
| Jerk Chicken | Spicy grilled chicken breast marinated in Caribbean spices, served with black beans and rice. | $17.95 |
| Ribeye Steak | 12 oz. hand-cut ribeye grilled to order, accompanied by sautéed asparagus and mashed potatoes. | $28.00 |
| Vegetable Pasta Primavera | Penne pasta tossed with fresh seasonal vegetables in a light garlic and olive oil sauce. | $16.50 |
Kids Menu
Tortuga Jacks ensures younger guests have tasty options suited to their tastes as well. The kids’ menu offers simple, familiar dishes that are both nutritious and enjoyable.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tenders | Crispy breaded chicken strips served with fries and a side of ketchup. | $7.95 |
| Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Classic American grilled cheese on toasted bread, served with fries. | $6.75 |
| Mini Cheeseburger | Small beef patty with cheese, pickles, and ketchup, served with fries. | $7.50 |
| Macaroni & Cheese | Creamy and cheesy macaroni, a kid-favorite comfort dish. | $6.95 |
Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note by choosing from the dessert offerings at Tortuga Jacks. These treats provide a perfect balance of indulgence and local flair.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Key Lime Pie | Classic tart and creamy key lime pie with a graham cracker crust. | $7.50 |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Warm chocolate cake with a molten chocolate center, served with vanilla ice cream. | $8.25 |
| Peach Cobbler | Southern-style peach cobbler served warm with whipped cream. | $7.95 |
| Ice Cream Sundae | Vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate sauce, nuts, and a cherry. | $6.50 |
Beverages
The beverage menu at Tortuga Jacks is as thoughtfully composed as the food menu, featuring local craft beers, inventive cocktails, and classic favorites. The bar’s oceanfront location makes it a prime spot for enjoying a refreshing drink while soaking in the views.
Cocktails
| Drink | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Tortuga Mule | A coastal twist on the classic Moscow Mule with fresh lime and ginger beer. | $9.00 |
| Jekyll Island Breeze | Rum, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and a splash of club soda. | $8.50 |
| Key Lime Martini | A smooth blend of vodka, key lime, and cream, garnished with a lime wheel. | $10.00 |
| Caribbean Rum Punch | Spiced rum mixed with tropical juices and grenadine for a sweet finish. | $9.50 |
Beers & Wines
Choose from a rotating selection of local craft beers on tap or by bottle. The wine list includes both domestic and international options, carefully selected to complement the seafood and other dishes.
| Beverage | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Local Craft Beer (Draft) | Various seasonal options | $6.00 – $7.50 |
| Bottle Beer Selection | Domestic and imported | $5.00 – $7.00 |
| Chardonnay | White Wine | $7.00 glass / $25 bottle |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | Red Wine | $8.00 glass / $30 bottle |
| Rosé | Pink Wine | $7.50 glass / $28 bottle |
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, Tortuga Jacks offers a range of sodas, iced teas, lemonades, and fresh juices. These are perfect for families or anyone seeking a refreshing drink without alcohol.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Lemonade | Made daily with fresh lemons and cane sugar. | $3.50 |
| Sweet Tea | Traditional Southern sweet tea served over ice. | $2.95 |
| Soft Drinks | Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale | $2.75 |
| Fresh Orange Juice | Cold-pressed and freshly squeezed. | $4.00 |
Special Dietary Options
Tortuga Jacks is committed to accommodating various dietary needs. Several menu items are marked gluten-free or can be modified to be so upon request.
Vegetarian dishes are also available, including salads, pasta, and wraps.
Tip: Always inform your server of any allergies or dietary restrictions so the kitchen can best assist you.
Atmosphere and Experience
Beyond the food and drink, Tortuga Jacks offers an immersive island dining experience. The setting is casual yet vibrant, with outdoor seating that allows diners to enjoy the sea breeze and views of the marina.
Live music on select evenings adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The friendly staff and welcoming environment ensure every visit is memorable.
“From fresh seafood to handcrafted cocktails, Tortuga Jacks captures the true spirit of Jekyll Island’s coastal charm.”
Summary
For those visiting Jekyll Island, Tortuga Jacks is a must-visit dining destination. The menu showcases a wide array of dishes that highlight local seafood and Southern flavors with a modern twist.
Whether you crave fried shrimp, a refreshing cocktail, or a satisfying burger, this restaurant delivers quality and taste in a beautiful setting. Its diverse menu, accommodating staff, and scenic location make it a standout choice for any meal during your island getaway.
Plan your visit to Tortuga Jacks and savor the flavors of Jekyll Island’s coast.
