I was skeptical of the location after having looked it up on Google Maps. It was located on Walnut Street, east of Main St. and nestled back into the neighborhoods of former glory and current "renovation". But Springfield is an amazing neighborhood. I remember spending many days and nights there at the ripe age of 19 when my friend Rachel lived at the corner of 9th and Main. I frequented Henrietta's and TSI [now the Pearl]. And probably even ate some of the Kentucky Fried Chicken within walking distance of my friend's front door.
Three Layers seems straight out of San Francisco's Mission, or a bustling neighborhood of Brooklyn, or the culture of Seattle, as the coffeehouse proclaims. It's smart. It's unique. It's artistic. It's inviting. It's warm. It's eclectic. It's the kind of hip, authentic place, with real attitude and real wherewithal, that you expect to find in a city. And not that Jacksonville isn't a real city, but it's a little bit of a sleeper town. And it's places like Three Layers that are shaking it awake.
Zen Garden at Three Layers.
The wine selection was expansive and surprising. The beer selection was rustic and bold, and even had a number of our very own Bold City brews on tap. Justin and I sampled the hummus platter and the chicken salad platter. Both were delicious, yet delicate in their approach. And I hear they offer some delectable sweets.
All around, the entire experience was delicious, yet delicate. The decor was comfortable with an old world touch, but surrounded by contemporary modern art, many from Jacksonville's local artists [like Overstreet Ducasse, whose vibrant, urban, thought provoking pieces have been showcased all across the city and turning him into a local staple]. The music of Billy Buchanan and his guitar filled the main room with talented tunes [and many covers], but was not overpowering. He created a kind of elite background noise. Listen if you want [and you probably would want to], or don't. And the food and beverages, again, were great.
Billy Buchanan.
Three Layers is the kind of place where I would love to become a regular. Cozying into one of the overstuffed leather chairs with my book of the month, or enjoying dusk in the zen garden with a couple friends, or having an engaging conversation in the dimly lit bar.
Three times the reward for coming to Three Layers. You won't be disappointed.
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