What do a citrus pie, seafood paired with a traditional breakfast item, and a sandwich that two cities still fight about have in common? In Florida, they’re more than just menu items; they’re comfort food royalty. As trends shift and commercial kitchens get smarter, these iconic dishes are holding firm. So, which comfort foods are Florida’s favorites? And how are the state’s busiest kitchens keeping up with demand without skipping a beat?
We’ve rounded up 10 standout comfort foods beloved across the Sunshine State. And here’s the real secret: behind every creamy mac and cheese or crispy fried treat is commercial kitchen equipment working just as hard as the staff. If you're serving comfort food in Florida, your equipment matters as much as your menu.
1. Shrimp and Grits
A coastal classic with deep Southern roots. Creamy grits paired with spicy, locally caught shrimp are a staple in many Florida eateries, from casual beachside joints to upscale bistros.
Back-of-house boost: Keep those shrimp perfectly sautéed with a reliable, high-heat skillet station. And don’t overlook consistent prep with powerful, reliable commercial mixers for lump-free grits.
2. Fried Chicken
Crispy, golden, and undeniably satisfying. Fried chicken isn’t going anywhere, and in Florida, it’s often reimagined with global seasonings and new dipping sauces.
Upgrade tip: A high-efficiency fryer that uses less oil while maintaining crunch is essential. Proper oil management systems also reduce waste and extend oil life, helping the bottom line without sacrificing flavor.
3. Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and kid-approved. Mac and cheese is comfort in a bowl, and chefs are experimenting with creative mix-ins like lobster, jalapeños, or smoked brisket.
Equipment angle: A commercial convection oven ensures even baking for that perfect crispy topping, while prep tools like portion-controlled scoops streamline service.
4. Cuban Sandwiches
Florida’s comfort food list wouldn’t be complete without this iconic, pressed sandwich. Made with pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on Cuban bread, the Cuban sandwich is both a staple and a source of ongoing debate. Tampa claims it created the original (with salami in the mix), while Miami insists on a more streamlined version without it. Either way, it’s crispy, savory, and a must-serve across the state.
Pro move: A quality sandwich press makes all the difference. Look for models with adjustable heat zones and heavy-duty durability to keep up with demand.
5. Empanadas
Whether baked or fried, empanadas are a handheld hug. Latin American flavors shine across Florida’s diverse communities—and comfort food gets a flavorful upgrade.
Speed + safety: Reheat with rapid-cook ovens that maintain texture, and use slicers and prep tools that keep kitchen staff efficient and safe.
6. Conch Fritters
A Florida Keys staple with deep Caribbean roots, conch fritters are crispy, savory bites made from chopped sea snail meat, usually queen conch, blended with herbs, spices, and batter. Popularized initially in Bahamian cuisine, they’ve become a go-to appetizer across Florida, especially in coastal and seafood-focused restaurants.
Kitchen tip: A commercial fryer with consistent heat recovery is key to keeping fritters golden, not greasy. And a good batter station keeps prep tight and tidy during peak hours.
7. Key Lime Pie
Florida’s iconic dessert. Light, tart, and chilled, key lime pie is the perfect sweet ending, especially in warmer months.
Keep it cool: Cold storage consistency is critical. Blast chillers and walk-in coolers that hold temp without overworking the compressor help preserve delicate desserts and minimize spoilage.
8. Stone Crab Claws
Florida’s seafood crown jewel, especially during peak season. Served chilled with mustard sauce, they’re indulgent, celebratory, and comforting in their simplicity.
Storage tip: Shellfish demands pristine refrigeration. Walk-ins with customizable zones make it easy to keep ingredients fresh without cross-contamination.
9. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow-cooked, smoky, and piled high, pulled pork sandwiches are a Florida BBQ staple. They are perfectly topped with a tangy slaw and served on sweet sandwich rolls.
Kitchen win: Use combi ovens for consistent low-and-slow cooking, then hold product safely in heated holding cabinets during rushes.
10. Fried Green Tomatoes
Tart, crispy, and dipped in remoulade. A nostalgic Southern favorite that’s making a modern comeback across food halls and casual dining spots. And tomatoes are a common Florida agricultural product, so look for local varieties to highlight on the menu.
Why it matters: Fryers with tight temperature recovery times are key for vegetables, preventing soggy bites and keeping things crispy.
Let Comfort Meet Commercial Efficiency
From bustling beach cafés to back-of-house brunch lines, Florida’s comfort food scene demands performance, consistency, and flavor. The right equipment is essential for managing oil, maximizing prep time, and ensuring consistent refrigeration.
Try out any of these classics (or one of your own menu specialities) on the best commercial foodservice equipment in Florida at our Clearwater or Ft. Lauderdale test kitchens:
