Florida Has a Restaurant Inside an 1890 Jailhouse—and the Bars Are Still There

Imagine eating dinner behind actual jail bars from the 1800s. In Sanford, Florida, you can do exactly that at The Old Jailhouse Kitchen & Spirits. This unique restaurant sits inside a real jailhouse built in 1890, and the original iron bars are still part of the dining experience.

It’s not every day you get to enjoy gourmet food in a place where criminals once served their time, making this one of Florida’s most unusual restaurants.

A Florida Restaurant Hiding Inside an 1890 Jailhouse

Tucked away on South Palmetto Avenue in downtown Sanford sits a building with a past most restaurants can’t match. The Old Jailhouse Kitchen & Spirits occupies an authentic 1890 jailhouse that once held real prisoners. Walking up to the brick exterior, you’ll notice the original architectural details that hint at its former life.

The building operated as Sanford’s county jail for decades before closing its doors to inmates. Instead of tearing it down, the community preserved this historic structure. Now it serves a completely different purpose—feeding guests instead of confining them.

The transformation from jail to restaurant happened carefully to maintain the building’s character. Original elements like brick walls, barred windows, and even jail cells remain intact. The location in historic downtown Sanford makes it easy to explore other local attractions before or after your meal.

This isn’t just another themed restaurant—it’s genuine Florida history you can actually step inside and experience.

The Story Behind Sanford’s Old Jail

Back in 1890, Sanford needed a proper place to hold lawbreakers. The county built this sturdy brick jailhouse to serve that exact purpose. For many years, it housed everyone from petty thieves to more serious criminals.

The thick walls and iron bars did their job, keeping prisoners secure. When the jail eventually closed, the building sat empty for a while.

Fortunately, someone saw potential in these old walls and decided to give them new life as a dining establishment. The restaurant owners embraced the building’s authentic past rather than hiding it. They kept original features like the prisoner ledger, which you can actually see on display.

Artifacts from the jail’s operational days are scattered throughout, telling stories of Sanford’s history. The transformation respected the structure’s heritage while creating a sophisticated dining space that works for modern guests.

Yes, the Original Jail Bars Are Still There

The iron bars aren’t just decorations—they’re the real deal from when this building locked up criminals. Every doorway features original bars in some form, reminding you exactly where you’re eating.

One of the most sought-after dining spots is inside an actual jail cell. The bars surround you on multiple sides while you enjoy your meal. Groups especially love booking this space because it creates an experience unlike any other restaurant.

You’re genuinely dining in a space that once represented punishment and confinement, now transformed into pleasure and indulgence. It’s this authentic preservation that sets The Old Jailhouse apart from typical themed restaurants.

What It’s Like to Dine Behind Bars

Stepping inside feels like entering a time capsule with a sophisticated twist. The brick walls and iron bars create an undeniably historic atmosphere. But the modern touches—craft cocktails, elegant plating, and attentive service—remind you this is definitely not prison food.

The layout offers various seating options beyond just the famous jail cell. Some tables sit near the open kitchen where you can watch chefs work. Others are positioned in quieter corners for intimate conversations.

The dim lighting throughout adds to the moody, unique vibe that makes every visit feel special. Guests consistently mention the friendly staff who enhance the whole experience. Servers know the building’s history and happily share stories while taking your order.

The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance—intriguing enough to spark conversation but refined enough for date nights or celebrations. Whether you’re sitting behind actual bars or at a regular table, the setting makes an ordinary dinner feel like an adventure into Florida’s past.

The Food & Drinks Worth Doing Time For

Chef Ryan crafts a menu that proves this restaurant delivers substance along with its showstopping setting. The Brussels sprouts earn rave reviews, with multiple guests calling them the best they’ve ever tasted. Empanadas come with a delightful goat cheese twist that surprises and satisfies.

The salmon meatloaf with creamy pesto orzo sounds unusual but tastes exceptional. Other standout dishes include perfectly cooked steaks, flaky salmon, and mushroom gnocchi with rich, savory flavors.

For dessert, the espresso crème brûlée gets special mention. Portions are generous, and presentation shows real artistry. Bar manager creates cocktails that look like movie props—complex, innovative, and beautifully executed.

Prices run higher than casual dining, but guests consistently say the quality justifies the cost. Everything reflects careful menu planning and skilled kitchen execution.

What to Know Before You Go

The Old Jailhouse sits at 113 South Palmetto Avenue in downtown Sanford, easily accessible and surrounded by other historic attractions. The restaurant stays closed on Mondays. Tuesday through Thursday, doors open at 4 PM.

Fridays and Saturdays offer earlier seating starting at noon and 12 PM respectively, while Sundays begin service at 1 PM. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekends and the coveted jail cell seating. The restaurant fills up quickly, and walk-ins might face long waits.

The space is smaller than it first appears, so booking guarantees your spot. Arrive with an appetite and a reasonable budget—this is upscale dining, not fast food pricing.

Most entrees range around $28 and up. The restaurant handles large parties well, with experience hosting groups of 40 or more for special events. Parking is available in downtown Sanford.

Why This Jailhouse Restaurant Belongs on Your Florida Bucket List

Florida has plenty of restaurants, but how many let you eat inside genuine 1890s jail cells? The Old Jailhouse offers something you simply can’t find elsewhere. It combines authentic history with modern culinary excellence in ways that create lasting memories.

Guests leave talking about both the incredible food and the unforgettable setting. This isn’t a gimmicky theme restaurant with fake props. Every brick, bar, and historical artifact is real.

You’re literally dining where criminals once served time. That authenticity makes the experience meaningful rather than merely novel. The preserved ledgers and original architecture connect you to Florida’s past in tangible ways.

Whether you’re a Florida resident or visiting the state, The Old Jailhouse deserves a spot on your must-visit list. It perfectly represents what makes Florida special—quirky history, bold preservation, and willingness to transform the unexpected into something extraordinary.

Book your reservation and prepare for dinner with a side of history.