Oxford Place, a new restaurant, is set to open this winter in the Ortega neighborhood of Jacksonville. The establishment will be located in a historic building on the National Register of Historic Places since 1988. Originally designed in 1923 by Marsh and Saxelby, the structure is known for its tall windows, high ceilings, and craftsmanship.
The restaurant is owned by Hughes Brown and Jerry Brown, who are also behind Bold Birds Nashville Hot Chicken in Murray Hill. The Browns previously co-owned Watermark, a fine-dining restaurant in Nashville for 15 years. They are now transforming the former Simply Sara’s and Fonda’s Hairstyling spaces into a 2,900-square-foot venue with seating for 120 people both indoors and outdoors, as well as a full-service bar.
Adler Interior Design has overseen restoration efforts to preserve the building’s original features while updating it for modern use.
“This building has represented connection and community to this area for generations, and we want to honor that,” said Jerry Brown, co-owner of Oxford Place. “We’re not just opening a restaurant – we’re bringing new life to a building with deep roots. Our goal is to create a warm, inviting place where guests can gather often, and we look forward to having Oxford Place fill that with approachable, everyday hospitality where neighbors and new friends can unwind over great food.”
Oxford Place will offer dinner service at launch with brunch options planned for later. The menu will focus on fresh ingredients from regional sources and southern flavors. Signature cocktails and curated wines will be available alongside happy hour specials.
Further information about the opening date, hours of operation, and menu previews will be announced soon.

