St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and delectable cuisine. Nestled on Florida’s Atlantic coast, this charming city offers a tantalizing array of dining experiences, from traditional seafood shacks to upscale restaurants with breathtaking waterfront views. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable culinary adventure, St. Augustine’s diverse restaurant scene has something to satisfy every palate.
Choosing the perfect place to eat in St. Augustine can be overwhelming, given the abundance of options. This comprehensive guide will delve into the city’s culinary gems, highlighting the best restaurants across various categories and price points. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey through St. Augustine’s vibrant food scene, where history and flavor collide in perfect harmony.
Fine Dining Experiences
Upscale Waterfront Restaurants
St. Augustine’s waterfront boasts an impressive collection of upscale restaurants that offer breathtaking views alongside exquisite cuisine.
- The Columbia Restaurant: A historic landmark since 1905, The Columbia Restaurant is renowned for its authentic Spanish and Cuban fare. Indulge in their signature 1905 Salad, paella, or a delectable seafood platter while enjoying panoramic views of the Matanzas River.
- Catch 27: This stylish restaurant offers a contemporary take on seafood, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Savor their award-winning oysters, grilled grouper, or decadent lobster mac and cheese.
- O.C. White’s Restaurant: Located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, O.C. White’s offers a sophisticated ambiance and a menu featuring classic American dishes with a modern twist. Their prime rib, crab cakes, and signature cocktails are highly recommended.
Intimate and Elegant Dining
For a more intimate and elegant dining experience, consider these hidden gems:
- Tini Martini Bar & Grill: This stylish bar and grill offers a refined ambiance and a menu featuring creative cocktails, gourmet burgers, and delectable appetizers.
- The Floridian: This upscale restaurant serves up contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Their tasting menu is a must-try for adventurous diners.
Casual Dining Delights
Seafood Shack Favorites
St. Augustine’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean means fresh seafood is a culinary staple.
- The Conch House Restaurant: This waterfront restaurant is a local favorite, known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes. Their conch fritters, fish tacos, and grouper sandwiches are highly recommended.
- Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille: This casual seafood restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh catches, from shrimp and oysters to lobster and crab. Their outdoor patio provides a picturesque setting for enjoying your meal.
- Crabby Joe’s: This family-friendly restaurant serves up classic seafood dishes at affordable prices. Their crab legs, fried shrimp, and hushpuppies are crowd-pleasers.
Southern Comfort Food
St. Augustine’s culinary scene also embraces the flavors of Southern comfort food. (See Also: Where to Eat in Lapu Lapu? Foodie Paradise)
- The Blue Hen Cafe: This cozy cafe serves up traditional Southern dishes with a modern twist. Their fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, and shrimp and grits are highly recommended.
- The Floridian: While also offering upscale dining, The Floridian also has a more casual menu featuring Southern classics like fried green tomatoes, pulled pork sandwiches, and mac and cheese.
International Flavors
St. Augustine’s diverse population has contributed to a vibrant international food scene.
- The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops: This local favorite offers a unique selection of gourmet ice pops made with fresh, local ingredients. Their flavors range from classic fruit combinations to more adventurous options like lavender honey and mango habanero.
- San Sebastian Winery: This award-winning winery offers a tasting room where you can sample their diverse selection of wines, including Spanish-style wines.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Shops
St. Augustine is a haven for dessert lovers and coffee enthusiasts.
- Whetstone Chocolate: This artisanal chocolatier crafts handcrafted chocolates using high-quality ingredients. Their truffles, caramels, and chocolate bars are a must-try for any sweet tooth.
- The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops: In addition to their savory ice pops, The Hyppo also offers a selection of sweet and creamy ice cream flavors.
- The Coffee Shop on Anastasia Island: This cozy coffee shop serves up a variety of freshly brewed coffee, teas, and pastries. Their outdoor patio provides a relaxing spot to enjoy your beverage.
Where to Eat in St Augustine Florida?
Budget-Friendly Dining
St. Augustine offers a range of dining options that won’t break the bank.
- The Floridian: While known for its upscale dining, The Floridian also has a more casual menu with affordable options.
- The Conch House Restaurant: This waterfront restaurant offers a casual atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes at reasonable prices.
- Crabby Joe’s: This family-friendly restaurant serves up classic seafood dishes at affordable prices.
Romantic Dining Spots
Looking for a romantic evening? St. Augustine has several restaurants that set the mood for a special occasion.
- The Columbia Restaurant: With its historic ambiance and stunning waterfront views, The Columbia Restaurant is a perfect setting for a romantic dinner.
- Catch 27: This stylish restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance and delicious seafood dishes.
- O.C. White’s Restaurant: This upscale restaurant boasts a refined ambiance and a menu featuring classic American dishes with a modern twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular restaurants in St. Augustine?
St. Augustine has a wide variety of popular restaurants, including The Columbia Restaurant, Catch 27, Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille, The Conch House Restaurant, and The Blue Hen Cafe. (See Also: Where to Eat in City? Top Dining Spots)
Where can I find the best seafood in St. Augustine?
St. Augustine is known for its fresh seafood. Some top spots include Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille, The Conch House Restaurant, Crabby Joe’s, and Catch 27.
Are there any budget-friendly dining options in St. Augustine?
Yes, there are plenty of affordable options in St. Augustine, such as The Floridian (casual menu), The Conch House Restaurant, and Crabby Joe’s.
What are some romantic restaurants in St. Augustine?
For a romantic dinner, consider The Columbia Restaurant, Catch 27, O.C. White’s Restaurant, or The Floridian.
Where can I find the best ice cream in St. Augustine?
The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops is a local favorite for unique and delicious ice pops and ice cream. (See Also: Where to Eat in Houma? Top Local Favorites)
St. Augustine’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, reflecting its rich history and diverse population. From upscale waterfront dining to casual seafood shacks and international cuisines, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite, St. Augustine’s restaurants offer an unforgettable dining experience.
This guide has provided a glimpse into the city’s diverse culinary offerings, highlighting some of the best restaurants across various categories. With its charming ambiance, fresh ingredients, and passionate chefs, St. Augustine is a true foodie paradise. So, plan your next culinary adventure and savor the flavors of this historic city.