Imagine taking a stroll through the charming streets of St. Augustine, Florida, indulging in the most delectable treats that this historic city has to offer. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings as we embark on a culinary adventure, highlighting the top ten must-try eateries. From savory seafood to mouthwatering desserts, each of these gastronomic gems offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. So grab your appetite and join us as we uncover the hidden culinary treasures of St. Augustine.

St. Augustine’s Culinary Scene

A Historic Culinary Destination

St. Augustine is not only known for its rich history and charming architecture, but also for its vibrant culinary scene. As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine has a culinary heritage that blends Spanish, Southern, and Caribbean influences. From upscale restaurants to casual eateries, the city offers a diverse array of dining options that are sure to satisfy every palate.

Diverse and Vibrant Restaurant Scene

When it comes to dining in St. Augustine, there is something for everyone. The city boasts a wide range of restaurants, each with their own unique ambiance and cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, barbecue, or comfort food, you’ll find a restaurant that caters to your taste buds. From waterfront dining to farm-to-table fare, St. Augustine’s restaurant scene has it all.

1. The Columbia Restaurant

A Taste of Spain in the Heart of St. Augustine

Located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, The Columbia Restaurant offers a true taste of Spain. Established in 1905, this iconic restaurant has been serving up traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine for over a century. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to another time and place, surrounded by beautiful Spanish tiles and stunning chandeliers.

Signature Dishes and Flamenco Shows

The Columbia Restaurant is known for its signature dishes, such as the 1905 Salad and the Paella “a la Valenciana.” The 1905 Salad is a refreshing mix of lettuce, ham, Swiss cheese, tomato, olives, and a secret dressing, while the Paella is a delightful combination of saffron rice, fresh seafood, and meats. To truly immerse yourself in the Spanish atmosphere, make sure to catch one of the restaurant’s nightly flamenco shows, where talented dancers and musicians bring the spirit of Spain to life.

2. Cap’s on the Water

Waterfront Dining with a Rustic Charm

For a dining experience that showcases the natural beauty of St. Augustine, look no further than Cap’s on the Water. Situated on the banks of the Tolomato River, this waterfront restaurant offers breathtaking views and a rustic, laid-back atmosphere. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the outdoor deck, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the river and its surrounding marshes.

Fresh Seafood and Spectacular Sunset Views

Cap’s on the Water is renowned for its fresh seafood, which is sourced locally and prepared with care. From delectable shrimp and crab cakes to mouthwatering fish tacos, every dish at Cap’s is bursting with flavor. But it’s not just the food that makes this restaurant a must-visit. Come evening, Cap’s on the Water becomes the perfect spot to catch a mesmerizing sunset as you savor your meal, creating a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.

3. The Floridian

Southern Comfort Food with a Twist

If you’re in the mood for comfort food with a creative twist, look no further than The Floridian. This charming eatery specializes in Southern cuisine with a modern twist, sourcing their ingredients from local farms and purveyors. With a focus on sustainability and seasonality, The Floridian creates dishes that are both delicious and environmentally conscious.

Local Sourcing and Seasonal Menus

At The Floridian, you can expect to find classic Southern dishes with a unique twist. From their famous fried green tomatoes to their mouthwatering shrimp and grits, every dish is made with love and attention to detail. The menu changes regularly to reflect the seasonality of the ingredients, ensuring that you’re always in for a delightful surprise every time you visit.

4. Ice Plant

Craft Cocktails and Farm-to-Table Fare

Housed in a historic ice factory building from the early 20th century, Ice Plant is a hip gastropub that offers a unique dining experience. Known for their craft cocktails made with homemade bitters and their farm-to-table fare, Ice Plant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Historic Ice Factory Turned Hip Gastropub

Step inside Ice Plant, and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The bar offers an extensive selection of artisanal cocktails, each handcrafted with care and attention to detail. Pair your drink with one of the restaurant’s farm-to-table dishes, such as the mouthwatering heritage pork chop or the delicious blackened snapper. With its historic setting and delicious food and drinks, Ice Plant is a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

5. Mojo BBQ

Finger-Licking Barbecue in St. Augustine

If you’re in the mood for some finger-licking barbecue, look no further than Mojo BBQ. With its laid-back atmosphere and mouthwatering menu, this barbecue joint is sure to satisfy your cravings for smoky, flavorful meats.

Succulent Ribs, Brisket, and Pulled Pork

At Mojo BBQ, you can feast on succulent ribs, tender brisket, and melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork. The meats are slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify. Pair your barbecue feast with classic sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread, and you’ll have a meal that is nothing short of heavenly. Don’t forget to try Mojo BBQ’s signature sauces, ranging from tangy and sweet to spicy and smoky, to elevate your barbecue experience even further.

6. The Reef

Oceanfront Dining with Coastal Cuisine

For a dining experience that combines excellent seafood with breathtaking views, head to The Reef. Located right on the oceanfront, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and a menu that showcases the flavors of the coast.

Fresh Seafood and Panoramic Views of the Atlantic

At The Reef, you can indulge in fresh seafood that is expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. From the succulent shrimp scampi to the mouthwatering garlic crab legs, every dish is a seafood lover’s dream. Pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s handcrafted cocktails and soak in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean on the restaurant’s outdoor patio, creating a dining experience that is truly memorable.

7. Maple Street Biscuit Company

Southern-Style Biscuits and Comfort Food

When it comes to breakfast and brunch, Maple Street Biscuit Company is a go-to spot in St. Augustine. This friendly and welcoming eatery offers southern-style biscuits that are soft, flaky, and downright delicious.

Hearty Breakfast and Brunch Delights

At Maple Street Biscuit Company, you’ll find a variety of hearty breakfast and brunch options that will leave you feeling satisfied. Sink your teeth into the “Squawking Goat,” a biscuit sandwich with fried chicken, goat cheese, and a house-made pepper jelly. Or try the “Five” biscuit, which comes with your choice of protein, egg, and cheese, all smothered in a delightful sausage gravy. With its comforting and soulful dishes, Maple Street Biscuit Company is the perfect place to start your day in St. Augustine.

8. Catch 27

Locally Sourced Seafood with a Sustainable Focus

If you’re a seafood lover who cares about sustainability, Catch 27 is the place for you. This cozy and inviting restaurant focuses on locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every dish is fresh, flavorful, and environmentally conscious.

Seasonal Specialties and Artisanal Preparations

At Catch 27, you can expect to find a menu that changes with the seasons, featuring dishes that highlight the best of what the local waters have to offer. From the pan-seared red snapper with a citrus beurre blanc to the blackened mahi-mahi served with a cilantro lime butter, every dish is thoughtfully prepared and bursting with coastal flavors. With its commitment to sustainability and its delicious food, Catch 27 is a must-visit for any seafood aficionado.

10. The Conch House

Caribbean-Inspired Seafood and Cocktails

For a taste of the Caribbean in St. Augustine, look no further than The Conch House. This Caribbean-inspired restaurant and tiki bar offers a laid-back vibe, flavorful dishes, and refreshing cocktails that are perfect for a day by the water.

Laid-Back Vibe and Tiki Bar

At The Conch House, you can relax and unwind as you savor delicious seafood dishes inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean. From the jerk chicken to the conch fritters, every dish is packed with bold and vibrant flavors. Pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s tropical cocktails, like the classic piña colada or the refreshing rum punch, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the tiki bar. With its Caribbean-inspired cuisine and relaxed ambiance, The Conch House is a hidden gem that is not to be missed in St. Augustine.

In conclusion, St. Augustine’s culinary scene is a true food lover’s paradise. From Spanish and Southern cuisine to fresh seafood and barbecue, the city offers a diverse and vibrant range of dining options. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront or exploring the historic district, you’re bound to stumble upon a restaurant that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, next time you find yourself in the oldest city in the United States, be sure to savor the flavors of St. Augustine and indulge in its must-try eateries.