About The Cavern
The Cavern is a friendly neighborhood beer pub in Jacksonville’s Mandarin area. Named after a dark, cozy “grotto,” the bar actually occupies a strip-mall unit (9825 San Jose Blvd) but creates that intimate vibe inside. It features 32 tap handles pouring mostly craft beer (along with a selection of seltzers, sours, ciders, meads and even THC‐infused drinks) (thecavernpub.com ). The menu also includes classic pub food – chiefly burgers and grilled sandwiches (thecavernpub.com ) – and in fact the kitchen serves breakfast all day (they advertise “breakfast anytime” on their site (thecavernpub.com )). The owners are local and heavily involved in daily operations, giving the place a true “Cheers” feel (www.tripadvisor.com ). Many regulars gather here to watch sports on the big TVs or to play bar games (the Cavern has pool and darts) (thecavernpub.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). In just a few years it has become a Mandarin mainstay: gains like adding all-day breakfast and a diverse tap list have kept it relevant, even as the local nightlife grows. Interior seating is casual (bar stools and tables), with a warm, low-lit décor that matches the “cavern” name and makes for a laid-back local hangout (www.tripadvisor.com ).
Events and Programming
The Cavern focuses on its pub atmosphere but also hosts regular social events. For example, it holds free weekend gatherings like beer-tasting parties and food samplings, as well as weekly community meet-ups (the owner’s listings mention Sunday “free food & beer tasting” sessions and Monday networking hours for neighbors). Publicly advertised special nights have included 21+ theme events such as the “Girls’ Night Out” male-revue shows. While there isn’t a formal concert schedule posted online, patrons report trivia nights, bingo and board-game nights happening periodically. Many weekends bring in local DJs or small live acts; on big events the house sound system cranks up so partygoers can dance. In general, entertainment ranges from casual games and sports-viewing during the week to paid performance nights (like touring comedians, dancers or tribute acts) on select evenings.
Recurring events: Trivia nights, game nights and open‐mic style evenings are common. Every so often the Cavern partners with local promoters for themed party nights (karaoke contests, holiday parties, etc.).Weekend crowds: Fridays and Saturdays often feature DJs or featured entertainers. There have been ladies’-night shows (e.g. “Girls’ Night Out” productions) and Country/Line-dancing mixers. If you like dancing or live music, check listings a few weeks ahead.Community vibe: The bar sponsors occasional beer tastings and “meet your neighbors” happy hours. Its no-cover events (e.g. trivia and bingo) start early evening, encouraging mingle among local patrons.
Tickets and Booking
How to buy: Casual nights (happy hours, game nights) are free to enter; you just arrive and order at the bar. Special shows (comedies, dance acts, big game screenings with ticketed entry) require advance tickets. Those tickets are typically announced on the Cavern’s social media or at local event listings. You can often buy tickets online (via local event services) or pay at the door if seats remain. In-house booking is straightforward since the venue is small – you may call or message the bar directly to reserve tables for large groups.When tickets go on sale: For big events, tickets usually go on sale weeks ahead. Because the Cavern is a cozy space, top shows may sell out early, so carpool or arrive early if it’s a hot ticket. Follow the Cavern’s social media or sign up for email alerts to know when sales begin. Smaller, recurring events (like weekly trivia) generally have no ticket — they’re open to walk-ins until capacity is reached.Pricing tiers: Ticket prices vary by event. Low-key events often have no cover or a small $5–10 charge. Larger headliner shows or special theme nights might range roughly $20–$50 depending on the performer and seating (bar stools vs. reserved tables). Discounts or tiered pricing (early-bird, general vs. VIP seating, group packs) sometimes appear, so check descriptions. For example, a recent “Girls’ Night Out” revue had multi-level seating tickets, so early purchasers paid less and front-row tables cost more. In short, expect moderate pub-show pricing: general shows ~$15–25, premium shows up to ~$40 or higher for VIP seating.Strategies for sold-out shows: Because space is limited, popular events can fill fast. Best practice is to buy early. If an event sells out online, occasionally the venue sells a few tickets at the door (arrive at least 30 minutes early). Follow their posts, or ask staff about mail lists or window-sales. Some events offer sweatshirts or credit with advance purchase, so consider joining any membership or newsletter the Cavern offers to snag presale deals.Box office and presales: The Cavern doesn’t have a separate box office; the bar itself handles walk-up sales once doors open. Most pre-sales occur through event partner websites. The bar’s policy is very flexible (they even tout “No Fee Event Space” on their page (thecavernpub.com )), which means they don’t add surcharges for using their address. This usually translates into transparent pricing: the ticket you buy for a Cavern event tends to be exactly what you’ll pay at the door, with no hidden venue fee.
Seating and Layout
The Cavern’s interior is single-floor and quite open, with a long bar running along one wall and tables (mostly high-tops) filling the center space. Patrons line the bar for service, and there are a handful of booth-style tables by the walls. The stage or performance area (when used) is at the front of the bar, so standing or seating anywhere within 20 feet of the stage gives a good view. Best seats depend on your focus: bar stools at the front offer a personal view of any acts, while tables provide a more relaxed vantage. Since it’s small, even tables toward the back still watch events clearly, but eye contact with performers is best up front.
Sightlines: There is no severely obstructed seating; however, heavy foot-traffic runs in front of the bar. For a quiet show, a back wall table is more private, but for energy, sit closer. All tables have decent acoustics because the ceiling isn’t high or cavernous.Seating types: Most events are standing-intermixed with seating. No designated VIP balcony or premium booths exist, though some tables might be reserved for guests. If you want to save seats, arrive early; at many shows regulars casually claim favorite stools. The venue has some outdoor patio seating too – useful for a breather, though partial-cover only.Acoustics and AV: The Cavern uses a standard pub-quality PA system. Sound is generally clear and loud enough for bands but not overpowering for casual conversations. In small gigs the volume is turned down so you can still talk across a table. Lighting is mostly ambient bar lighting; for shows, there are a few stage lights to highlight performers, but it’s not a theater-grade production. TVs remain on during games nights and big sports events, so even when something is playing on stage you might see replays on the screens unless muted.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The Cavern sits in the Mandarin Outback Plaza at 9825 San Jose Boulevard, near the intersection of San Jose and Roosevelt Blvd (US-17). This is south of downtown Jacksonville, just inside the I-95 beltway (exit 51 onto San Jose). If driving, you’ll spot it on your right going south – look for the plaza strip mall signage.
Parking: Ample free parking is available right in the shopping-center lot (restaurantguru.com ). You can park directly outside the Cavern’s entrance or anywhere in the plaza (all lots are shared). Since the area isn’t densely packed, finding a spot is usually easy even on busy nights. There is no valet, but parking is free and there are no meters or permits.
Public transit: Jacksonville’s JTA buses run along San Jose Blvd. Routes 17 and 28 stop very near the Outback Plaza (moovitapp.com ). For example, the 28 bus goes along San Jose, and stops around Spencer ("San Jose Blvd @ Grove Park Lane") which is about 0.4 miles north – an easy 8-minute walk. Check current schedules for stops labeled “San Jose Blvd” or “Woodstock Ave” or “Timucuana Rd”. From downtown or Southside, a connecting bus or two will get you close. Once off the bus, walk a block or two and look for the plaza’s traffic light; the Cavern is just inside it.
Rideshare/Drop-off: The plaza driveway has a convenient drop-off spot in front of the building. Rideshare drivers (Uber/Lyft) can pull in and let you off at the front. If parking is completely full, a short backup on San Jose Blvd is usually safe at night while waiting for a spot.
Inside the Venue
Entering The Cavern is straightforward. On busy event nights you may see a line out front; otherwise just walk in and head to the bar. A staff member or bouncer will check IDs at the door if there’s a cover event (especially for 21+ nights). Once inside, the vibe is casual and energetic. The long bar is the focal point – bartenders here are generally friendly and quick (www.tripadvisor.com ). There is usually loud rock, pop or DJ music pumping, but you can still chat at a table.
Service and ambiance: As an unpretentious pub, the Cavern offers table or counter service. Service is quick and cheerful, a trait noted by reviewers (www.tripadvisor.com ). You’ll get menus at your table or at the bar. The bartenders sometimes walk around for drink orders, but it’s normal to order at the bar first. It’s a vibrant, slightly “grunge” decor – sports posters, neon beer signs and wood accents. Often a house playlist runs when there’s no live music, and on game days the TV screens broadcast major sports (football, baseball, etc.).
Food and drink: As mentioned, The Cavern serves draft and bottled beer plus a full bar. Drink specials often run during football games or happy hours. Food is primarily bar snacks and sandwiches. You can order in-house items like burgers, wings, fries and breakfast sandwiches (thecavernpub.com ). Notably, they allow outside food: many locals order in from nearby pizza or Asian eateries and have it delivered to the bar. (Service staff are used to customers eating takeout at the tables (www.tripadvisor.com ).) If you’re hungry, you might grab a sandwich or pizza slice (many pizzas are available by the slice) and enjoy it at your seat.
Amenities: The venue is wheelchair accessible – the entrance is flat and the interior has space for wheelchairs (restaurantguru.com ). There is free Wi-Fi throughout, so it’s easy to upload your check in or event photos. You’ll find restrooms at the back of the bar (one men’s and one women’s); they are clean and kept stocked. There is coat rack area but no formal coat check, so plan to keep personal items with you. Merchandise is minimal (at most some branded shirts behind the bar), so many fans just wear the Cavern pint glasses home. Don’t forget cash – tipping is customary (and some entertainers at shows will want to be tipped in dollars) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants and dining: The Mandarin Outback Plaza has a diverse food lineup right next door. For example, there’s a Firehouse Subs sandwich shop and a Korean BBQ restaurant (Kim’s Korean BBQ) in the same center (hakimianholdings.com ). Other nearby options include pizza by the slice, a Chinese takeout, and a dessert or ice-cream spot. If those don’t suit, across the street (on San Jose just north of Roosevelt) you’ll find a waffle house and fast-food cafés. A few blocks further into the San Jose Plaza to the east is a larger strip mall with more chain restaurants (bagels, BBQ, Mexican, etc.). In short, it’s easy to grab a quick pre-show meal or bring in takeout. Many guests arrive early at The Cavern, park, and then stroll to a nearby café or diner for dinner before catching a late show.
Bars and nightlife: If you’re making a night of it, know that The Cavern is part of a modest Mandarin nightlife area – it’s not downtown. There are a couple of other neighborhood bars within a mile (for example, MacDuff’s Pub on Roosevelt Blvd.), but no major club next door. Most people either arrive by car or catch a Lyft to The Cavern as their pre-planned destination. If heading out afterward, you might continue south on San Jose to bars like Tailgators or Azteca Cantina on Beach Blvd (~5 min drive), or swing north into downtown Jacksonville for late-night music venues. The Cavern itself stays open late (11pm on weekends), but after closing, rideshares are plentiful on San Jose.
Hotels: There are several chain hotels just a few minutes away for overnight stays. The La Quinta Inn & Suites (at I-295 & Mandarin Road, about 1 mi south) is very close (www.tripadvisor.ie ). A bit further along San Jose or on I-295 you’ll find the Tru by Hilton Jacksonville and Holiday Inn Express (both a 3–5 minute drive). These are handy for out-of-towners. If downtown hotels are needed, factor ~20–25 minutes by car north along I-95 (or a 30–40 min bus ride).
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set The Cavern apart from other Jacksonville pubs. First, it has an unusually large and rotating craft-beer selection for a neighborhood bar – 32 taps covering local and international brews (thecavernpub.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). This focus on variety helped establish it as part of Jacksonville’s thriving craft-beer scene (Jacksonville was recently highlighted in Forbes for its growing brewery culture) (www.forbes.com ). Second, it operates with a community-first spirit: the bar is actually women-owned (the-cavern-jacksonville.goto-where.com ) and locally managed, and the owners treat it as a friendly meeting spot (some regulars even volunteer as trivia hosts!). The stomach-friendly hours (breakfast served all day (thecavernpub.com )) and no-cover events create a welcoming vibe not always found in more corporate bars.
Another unique aspect is the venue’s niche in Mandarin. For years, there weren’t many dedicated craft beer bars in this part of town; The Cavern filled that gap. In addition, its flexible event space (no rental fee) encourages private parties, drop-in openings and community fundraisers, which many other bars do not offer. The Cavern has also quietly racked up local lore: it regularly hosts Nights on the Town, pub crawls and charity fundraisers, and it’s known as the place to go for a lively neighborhood party. Reviewers explicitly liken its atmosphere to the sitcom “Cheers” (www.tripadvisor.com ), meaning people come here to be among friends. All in all, it matters to Jacksonville’s scene because it brings that small-venue, local-brew camaraderie to the south side – a departure from cookie-cutter sports bars or downtown clubs.
Visitor Tips and Information
When visiting The Cavern, remember that you’re walking into a casual pub, so dress and behave accordingly. There’s no formal dress code – jeans and a t-shirt are fine. The crowd is mixed, from college students to retirees, but ages skew 21–40 most nights. If you plan to drink alcohol, bring a valid ID (Florida law requires checking ID on every order). Many events at The Cavern are 21+, especially late-night parties; children are rarely present except at early-evening community events. (Check ahead if you want to bring under-21 friends.)
Accessibility: The bar is wheelchair-accessible (restaurantguru.com ). However, the main floor is the only area, so noise levels are whatever’s happening – if you need a quiet corner, ask the staff. SDRs requiring closed captioning or sign language should contact the event promoters ahead of time (no certified accommodations are provided on short notice).
What to bring: Carry cash as well as card; while credit is accepted, cash tips for bartenders and performers are always appreciated. Put on comfortable shoes if you plan to dance or stand. Don’t bring outside alcohol – Florida law forbids drinking your own liquor in a bar. (Food delivery is allowed, however.) Leave large backpacks or coolers at home; if bringing a gift for the stage performer or a prize for trivia, small is best. A phone-charging cable can be handy (outlets are limited).
Common mistakes to avoid: The San Jose area can be tricky to navigate, so allow extra time if you’re unfamiliar with the roads. Also, some newcomers assume there’s a food kitchen here – while there is simple pub fare, the Cavern’s real focus is drinks. If it’s a famed pub crawl or packed game night, get there early to get a seat. On event nights, door times can vary (some shows start promptly), so double-check start times. Finally, **be respectful of the local vibe**: this is a long-standing neighborhood spot, so hugging the bar, cheering on teams, and tipping the staff will get you good will.
Insider tips: If you love craft beer, tell the bartender what you like – they often rotate kegs in and out, and will gladly give samples of new taps. Follow The Cavern on social media; they sometimes give sneak peeks of new beers coming on tap or announce “secret” events (like midnight toast-ups). For a relaxing visit, try the Sunday or Monday events (they tend to be calmer). On game days, get there early to claim a soccer or football on the big TV. Finally, if you’re buying tickets, note that there are no hidden fees – the price you see is what you pay (thecavernpub.com ), so you can budget reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Cavern?
The Cavern is a cozy pub, not a large arena – its capacity is on the order of 50–100 people. Seating is flexible (bar stools and tables) and space is often reconfigured depending on the event. If it feels full, the fire code will likely limit additional entry, so a packed night means the bar is at capacity.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for The Cavern?
For regular pub nights and most trivia or game events, no ticket is needed. You can just show up. For special shows or live performances, advance purchase is highly recommended because the space is small. Watch local event listings (or The Cavern’s announcements) – many shows sell out early. The bar usually offers online sales ahead of time and sometimes holds a few tickets for door sales, but arrive early if it’s a big event.
What are typical ticket prices at The Cavern?
Ticket prices vary by event. Low-key nights (open mic, local bands) often have no cover or just a small $5–$10 fee. Mid-level shows (regional bands, dance nights) tend to be around $10–$30. Big themed shows or touring acts can be in the $25–$50 range for general admission, with higher tiers for front-row or VIP seats. In other words, expect a typical range from roughly $15 up to $50 for the hottest events. Always check the event’s announcement for exact pricing and any discounts (early-bird, group rates, etc.).
Is there assigned seating or general admission?
Most events at The Cavern are general admission. You simply find any available seat (or stand) once inside. For parties or reviews, you can often reserve a whole table for a group, but it’s first-come first-served for individual patrons. There are no fixed seat numbers. Some higher-profile shows allow you to “reserve” sections (like a bar stool block), but it’s all casual. In practice, for the best view get a spot near the front.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are sold through authorized channels. The Cavern itself sometimes sells tickets at the door for events if not sold out. Otherwise, you’ll typically buy online through the event organizer (local event sites or the Cavern’s social media links). Check the specific event announcement for a purchase link. Don’t look on big corporate sites for Cavern shows – they rarely list community bars. It’s best to go through The Cavern’s own announcements or local ticket vendors.
What is the seating layout inside The Cavern?
The Cavern has one main room with the long bar along one wall, plus several high-top tables and stools scattered around. There are a few small booths or regular tables as well. For events, a portion of the floor can be left open for standing or dancing. There is no balcony or separate VIP area – it’s a flat floor plan. All seats have a view of the stage or screen, though if you want total front-row, plan to arrive early. Output seating (like outdoor tables) is limited but available if you need fresh air.
Is parking free at The Cavern?
Yes. The Cavern is in a retail plaza and uses the shared parking lot. There is no charge – just park in any open space in the Outback Plaza lot (restaurantguru.com ). You may have to walk a bit if the lot is crowded, but spots are usually plentiful. There is additional public parking along San Jose Boulevard and side streets if needed. Just avoid blocking any business entrances. No special permits or fees are required.
What public transportation serves this area?
Jacksonville’s bus system (JTA) runs on San Jose Boulevard. Routes 17 and 28 both stop near the Plaza (moovitapp.com ). For example, take Route 17 south from downtown to San Jose/Spencer or Route 28 south toward the Outback Plaza. From the bus stop, The Cavern is a short walk (usually under 10 minutes). If you take rideshare, ask your driver to stop at the Outback Shopping Center on San Jose and Roosevelt; The Cavern is visible from the curb.
Is The Cavern wheelchair accessible?
Yes – the Cavern is marked as wheelchair-accessible (restaurantguru.com ). There are no steps at the entrance, and the main floor is one level. Restrooms are on grade as well. The bar layout leaves enough room to maneuver a chair through the aisles. However, the space can get crowded; if you have any doubts, call ahead and the staff can prepare an aisle seat or clear a table for you.
Can I bring outside food or drinks?
You can’t bring in your own alcohol, but outside food is allowed. The bar’s policy explicitly welcomes takeout – many people order pizza or other restaurant meals to eat at the Cavern (www.tripadvisor.com ). If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to bring snacks or a meal. Just keep alcoholic beverages to the bar – they’re licensed to sell alcohol and you must purchase theirs. Non-alcoholic items (like bottled water or soda from outside) are usually fine, though there’s a full drink menu on site anyway.
What is the age limit for entry?
During regular hours, The Cavern functions like a restaurant-bar, so under-21s are allowed accompanied by adults (Florida law changed to permit minors in bars with food service). That means families can come in early evening. However, many event nights are strictly 21+. If you see a show advertised for “ages 21+” (like a dance revue or late-night party), guests under 21 are not admitted. Always check the event listing: if no age restriction is mentioned, minors under 21 can usually attend with parental supervision.
What amenities does the venue offer?
The Cavern provides many guest-friendly amenities: free Wi-Fi throughout (restaurantguru.com ), flat-screen TVs for sports and videos, and comfortable bar seating. There is a small outdoor seating area for nice weather. The bar also has games (pool table, darts) for customers to play. Restrooms are conveniently located near the back. There is no coat check, but bag space around your seat is usually fine. Credit cards are accepted for all purchases (restaurantguru.com ). For food, in addition to their sandwiches and appetizers, they allow patrons to order in or bring outside food.
Are there any rules or restrictions I should know?
General pub rules apply: no outside liquor, no large backpacks or coolers. Smoking is not allowed indoors (Florida law bans indoor smoking in most public places). No aggressive behavior or disorderly conduct is tolerated – security personnel will eject anyone violating rules. The official policy allows only service animals inside, but pets (other than service dogs) should stay home. Photo/video is usually fine for personal use, but respect performers’ wishes for flash photography. Abide by posted door policies on event nights (for example, arriving after a certain time or age restrictions). Lastly, be sure to bring ID after 9pm, as it’s common to want to see age verification late at night.
