Around The World In 10 Plates: International Cuisine In St. Augustine

Imagine taking a culinary journey around the globe without ever leaving the charming town of St. Augustine. From mouth-watering Mexican delicacies to delectable Italian pasta, the diverse and vibrant food scene in this Florida gem will transport your taste buds to different continents. With an array of international restaurants dotting the streets, you can indulge in flavors from around the world, all within a few blocks. So, get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure as we explore the top ten plates that showcase the global influence on St. Augustine’s dining scene. Bon appétit!

Mexican Cuisine in St. Augustine

When it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine in St. Augustine, you are in for a treat. The city boasts several restaurants that offer a truly Mexican dining experience. These establishments pride themselves on creating dishes that are prepared just like they would be in Mexico.

At these authentic Mexican restaurants, you can find popular dishes such as tacos al pastor, enchiladas, and chiles rellenos. Each dish is bursting with flavors and spices that will transport you straight to Mexico. From the warm tortillas to the perfectly seasoned meats, every bite is a taste of true Mexican cuisine.

But St. Augustine also offers a unique twist on Mexican food with its Mexican fusion cuisine. These restaurants combine traditional Mexican flavors with local ingredients, creating innovative and delicious dishes. From Mexican-inspired seafood to fusion tacos, these restaurants offer a fresh take on Mexican cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else.

Italian Cuisine in St. Augustine

If you’re craving Italian food in St. Augustine, you’re in luck! The city is home to several traditional Italian restaurants that will satisfy your appetite for pasta, pizza, and more. These restaurants pride themselves on using authentic Italian ingredients and recipes, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.

When it comes to famous Italian pasta dishes, St. Augustine has you covered. From classic favorites like spaghetti carbonara and fettuccine Alfredo to regional specialties like lasagna Bolognese and cannelloni, there is something for everyone. Each dish is made with love and care, ensuring that every bite is a taste of Italy.

In addition to the traditional Italian restaurants, St. Augustine also offers regional Italian specialties. These restaurants focus on cuisine from specific regions of Italy, such as Tuscany or Sicily. Here, you can indulge in dishes that are unique to these regions, showcasing the diverse flavors and ingredients that Italy has to offer.

Japanese Cuisine in St. Augustine

Are you in the mood for sushi and sashimi? St. Augustine has a variety of restaurants that specialize in Japanese cuisine. These establishments offer a wide selection of fresh and expertly crafted sushi rolls and sashimi platters, providing a true taste of Japan. From the rich flavors of salmon nigiri to the delicate textures of tuna sashimi, every bite is a delight for the senses.

For a unique dining experience, consider trying teppanyaki. In St. Augustine, there are restaurants that offer the teppanyaki experience, where skilled chefs cook your meal right in front of you on a hot iron griddle. It’s not only a delicious meal but also an entertaining show as the chefs showcase their impressive knife skills and perform tricks with the food.

If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, ramen and udon noodles are the way to go. St. Augustine offers restaurants that serve authentic Japanese noodle bowls, packed with flavors and toppings. Whether you prefer the rich, savory broth of ramen or the thick, chewy noodles of udon, you can find a bowl that will satisfy your cravings.

Indian Cuisine in St. Augustine

Step into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine in St. Augustine. The city is home to tandoori and curry houses that offer an array of aromatic and flavorful dishes. From the fragrant spices to the tender meats and vegetables, every bite of Indian food is a culinary adventure.

At the tandoori and curry houses, you can indulge in popular Indian street food like samosas, bhel puri, and pakoras. These snacks are bursting with spices and flavors, providing a delicious introduction to the world of Indian cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options are also abundant, with dishes like chana masala and palak paneer that will satisfy any dietary preference.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, Indian cuisine in St. Augustine has something for everyone. The diverse menu options cater to different taste preferences, ensuring that everyone can find a dish they will love. From the creamy, aromatic curries to the smoky, charred flavors of tandoori meats, Indian cuisine in St. Augustine is a true delight.

Greek Cuisine in St. Augustine

Transport yourself to the shores of Greece with a visit to one of St. Augustine’s authentic Greek tavernas. These restaurants capture the essence of Greek cuisine, with dishes that are fresh, flavorful, and vibrant. From the traditional flavors of Greece to the delicious Mediterranean seafood, you’ll feel like you’re dining in the heart of Athens.

At the authentic Greek tavernas, you can savor the delights of souvlaki and gyro. These dishes feature perfectly seasoned meats, wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with fresh vegetables and tangy tzatziki sauce. Every bite is a burst of flavors that will transport you to the sunny streets of Greece.

Seafood lovers will rejoice at the Mediterranean seafood specialties offered in St. Augustine. From grilled octopus to shrimp saganaki, these dishes showcase the freshest catches of the sea. Each bite is a taste of the Mediterranean, with flavors that are both delicate and robust.

Thai Cuisine in St. Augustine

When it comes to Thai cuisine, St. Augustine has several restaurants that deliver the perfect balance of spice, flavor, and freshness. These Thai restaurants offer a wide range of dishes that cater to different taste preferences, ensuring that you can find a dish that suits your palate.

For those who enjoy a little heat, St. Augustine’s Thai restaurants with spice are a must-visit. Here, you can find dishes like tom yum soup, green curry, and pad prik king that pack a punch. Each dish is carefully crafted with a blend of herbs and spices that create a symphony of flavors.

One cannot talk about Thai cuisine without mentioning the signature Thai dishes. Whether you’re a fan of the tangy flavors of pad Thai, the aromatic spices of massaman curry, or the sweet and savory combination of pineapple fried rice, St. Augustine’s Thai restaurants have you covered. Each dish is made with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai flavors, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.

For a lighter option, try the fresh and flavorful Thai salads. From som tam (green papaya salad) to larb (spicy Thai salad), these dishes are a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The combination of crunchy vegetables, fragrant herbs, and zesty dressings will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.

French Cuisine in St. Augustine

Indulge in the flavors of France with a visit to one of St. Augustine’s classic French bistros. These charming establishments offer a taste of Paris right in the heart of Florida. From the rich flavors of escargot to the exquisite foie gras, you’ll feel like you’re dining in a sidewalk cafe in the French capital.

Classic French bistros in St. Augustine serve up a variety of dishes that capture the essence of French cuisine. From coq au vin to bouillabaisse, each dish is made with traditional French techniques and ingredients, ensuring an authentic dining experience. Pair your meal with a glass of fine wine and you’ll truly feel like you’re in the heart of the French countryside.

For those feeling a bit more adventurous, escargot and foie gras are must-tries. Escargot, or snails, are often served in a garlic butter sauce and are a delicacy in French cuisine. Foie gras, made from the liver of specially fattened ducks or geese, is known for its rich and buttery flavor. These dishes may be an acquired taste, but they are certainly worth trying for a truly French experience.

Save room for dessert, as French cuisine is known for its decadent sweets. Indulge in classics like crème brûlée, chocolate mousse, and profiteroles. Each dessert is a work of art, with layers of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the sweetest tooth.

Chinese Cuisine in St. Augustine

If you’re craving Chinese food, St. Augustine has several traditional Chinese restaurants that deliver authentic flavors. From the rich and savory flavors of dim sum to the aromatic stir-fries, you can find a wide variety of dishes that will satisfy your cravings.

For a delightful brunch experience, try dim sum. These small, bite-sized portions of food are served in bamboo steamers and are perfect for sharing. From steamed dumplings to crispy spring rolls, each bite is a taste of traditional Chinese flavors. Don’t forget to pair your dim sum with a cup of hot tea for a truly authentic experience.

When it comes to popular Chinese stir-fries, St. Augustine’s Chinese restaurants have you covered. From the sweet and tangy flavors of orange chicken to the spicy kick of Kung Pao shrimp, these stir-fries are packed with flavors and textures. Pair them with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

In addition to the traditional Chinese restaurants, St. Augustine also offers fusion Chinese cuisine. These restaurants combine Chinese flavors with local ingredients, creating dishes that are unique and delicious. From Peking duck tacos to General Tso’s chicken sliders, these fusion dishes are a fusion of flavors and cultures.

Brazilian Cuisine in St. Augustine

Experience the flavors of Brazil with a visit to one of St. Augustine’s churrascarias. These Brazilian steakhouses offer an all-you-can-eat meat extravaganza that is sure to satisfy any carnivorous cravings. From succulent cuts of beef to juicy chicken and tender pork, the churrascarias in St. Augustine serve up a feast fit for a king.

If you’re looking to try Brazil’s national dish, feijoada, St. Augustine has you covered. This hearty black bean stew is made with a variety of meats, such as pork, beef, and sausage, creating a rich and flavorful dish. It is often served with traditional sides like rice, collard greens, and farofa, a toasted cassava flour mixture. Feijoada is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true flavors of Brazil.

In addition to the churrascarias and feijoada, St. Augustine also offers Brazilian snacks and street food. From coxinha, a deep-fried chicken-filled pastry, to pão de queijo, a cheese bread made with tapioca flour, these snacks are perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Pair them with a cup of strong Brazilian coffee for a truly authentic experience.

Moroccan Cuisine in St. Augustine

Explore the exotic flavors of Morocco in St. Augustine. Moorish flavors are brought to life in the city’s Moroccan restaurants, where you can indulge in dishes like tagines, couscous, and spiced meats.

Tagines are a cornerstone of Moroccan cuisine, and St. Augustine’s Moroccan restaurants serve them up with flair. These slow-cooked stews are named after the distinctive clay pots in which they are cooked. From chicken tagine with preserved lemons and olives to lamb tagine with apricots and almonds, each dish is a fragrant and flavorful delight.

Couscous is another staple of Moroccan cuisine, and St. Augustine offers restaurants that serve it in many delicious forms. From vegetable couscous to couscous with spiced meats, these dishes are a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The fluffy couscous grains are complemented by the rich, aromatic sauces and tender meats.

When it comes to spiced meats, St. Augustine’s Moroccan restaurants do not disappoint. From grilled kebabs to tender roasted lamb, the meats are marinated in a variety of spices that create bold and vibrant flavors. Pair your meal with traditional Moroccan mint tea, a refreshing and fragrant beverage that perfectly complements the spicy dishes.

No matter which international cuisine you choose to explore in St. Augustine, you are sure to experience a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds. From Mexico to Morocco, the city offers a wide range of dining options that allow you to experience the flavors of the world without ever leaving Florida. So grab your passport (figuratively, of course) and embark on a gastronomic adventure in St. Augustine. Bon appétit!