Racing North Turn Restaurant in Daytona Beach, Florida

Eating at a lovely beachfront restaurant can be done anywhere in the world. But when you bring elements of history, racing, seafood, and beach that is when the dining experience truly comes to life. And that is exactly what eating at Racing North Turn restaurant in Daytona Beach Florida, is all about.

Racing’s North Turn is right by the beach and offers stunning beach and ocean views. It’s cool because it’s where the north turn of the old raceway used to be, where the first NASCAR races happened.

Another great option to eat in Daytona Beach is at Crabby Joe’s, I have a fantastic review that you can take a look at! And if you enjoy the beach front a good to stay in Daytona Beach is at Hyatt, an incredible beachfront hotel.

So Many Restaurants in Daytona Beach – Why Racing North Turn

• The restaurant is located right where the history of car racing began in Daytona Beach.
• The races took place on the beach from 1936 until World War II and then continued with the first Grand National Race in 1948 until 1959.
• As of February 15, 2007, the Ponce Inlet Historic & Archaeological Preservation Board announced that Racing’s North Turn will be recognized as a Historic Landmark.
• It is quite common for some of today’s famous drivers to take a seat at the bar  – unfortunately didn’t happen on our visit.
• They are proud to exhibit an extensive photo library, with many photos donated by some of the most famous race car drivers and bike racers in history.
• The photo library was renovated in 2012, and it is now more significant than ever.
• And don’t forget the food
• But the location for me is just as important as the cool history and background

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What To Eat at Racing North Turn

• The menu is filled with a bunch of options including, seafood, as it should be since you are right by the ocean.
• Some of their most popular seafood dishes include shrimp tacos, fried prawns, stuffed crab, Grits, and Salmon.
• Besides seafood, they also have other options for chicken, pork, and fast-food lovers, including chicken tender platter, pasta, Barbecue riblets, slow-roasted pulled pork, and burgers and sandwiches.
• The restaurant also has a variety of salads and side dishes to complete your meal. You can try out their cheesecake or Key Lime Pie for dessert!
• They also have a full bar with drink options ranging from beer to specialty cocktails.

All About The Atmosphere, Staff Service, Events, and Music

Racing North Turn has a casual, laid-back atmosphere with outdoor dining, perfect for a beachfront restaurant. You can pretty much hang out in your beach gear and not feel out of place. With an adorably large sunny deck and lively views, and as I mentioned earlier there’s a bar here that has a beautiful roof, so you can enjoy some shade while still capturing the beautiful views.

The staff service is excellent, super friendly, and attentive. The servers are attentive and will make sure your food comes out quickly, and your drink remains refreshed. The staff is also well-informed about the restaurant’s history and will gladly share their knowledge with you.

The restaurant also hosts numerous events throughout the year, especially during the racing season. Check their website or social media pages for updates on upcoming events.

History of Car Racing on Daytona Beach

• Races started on this beach in 1902 but became popular across the country until the early 1930s.
• The lap length in early events was 3.2 miles (5.1 km), and it was lengthened to 4.2 miles (6.8 km) in the late 1940s.
• It hosted land speed record attempts beginning in 1904 when William K. Vanderbilt set an unofficial record of 92.307 mph (148.554 km/h).
• Washington D.C. resident Bill France Sr. was familiar with the history of Daytona. He moved there in 1935 to escape the Great Depression, and he set up a car repair shop.
• On March 8, 1936, the first stock car race was held on the Daytona Beach Road Course, located in the present-day Town of Ponce Inlet. But it wasn’t making money.
• France Sr. took over the job of running the course in 1938.
• But World War II came, and Bill France had to spend it working at the Daytona Boat Works. Most racing stopped until after the war. Car racing returned to the track in 1946.
• France St. founded NASCAR in 1948. This marked the end of the races on the beach. The World Center of Racing, Daytona International Speedway, was built in 1959.

More Fun Facts That Need to Be Shared

• Land speed racers from Barney Oldfield to Henry Seagrave to Malcolm Campbell would visit Daytona repeatedly and make the 23 mi (37 km) beach course famous.
• Cars are still allowed to go through the beach, but no faster than 16km/h.
• 15 world records were set here.
• The course was featured in the video game “NASCAR Thunder 2004”.

Information for Racing North Turn

Hours: Mon – Fri opens at 11am; On Sat – Sun opens at 8am; Live Music every Night.

Address: 4511 S. Atlantic Ave. Ponce Inlet, FL. 32127

Phone: 386.322.3258

Price: Between $6 and $22

The Bottom Line!

Racing North Turn encapsulates a vibrant slice of Daytona Beach’s rich history, marrying the thrill of motorsports with delightful beachfront dining. From its historic significance as the birthplace of car racing to its extensive seafood menu and laid-back atmosphere, it offers a unique experience for both history buffs and casual diners alike. Whether you’re sipping a drink on the sunny deck, savoring the local culinary delights, or immersing yourself in the tales of racing legends, Racing North Turn stands as a testament to Daytona’s enduring legacy. So, as i always say, race on over to Racing North Turn and make some unforgettable memories! Though it is not cheap, the experience is priceless.

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Last Updated on March 23, 2026