Best Restaurants in St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, America’s oldest city, is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and diverse dining scene. After visiting the city several times and spending an extended stay there, we explored a wide range of local restaurants and discovered some of the best places to eat.

From fresh seafood and Southern comfort food to Cuban-inspired dishes and upscale dining, St. Augustine offers something for every taste. Great restaurants can be found throughout the historic downtown, Anastasia Island, Lincolnville, the waterfront, and Vilano Beach. While the historic district is popular, the restaurants along A1A and Beach Boulevard on Anastasia Island are excellent local favorites that are often less crowded. Since restaurant menus and hours may change, it’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or social media before visiting.

St. Augustine is a great base for exploring Florida’s northeast coast.

Getting There: The nearest airports are Jacksonville International Airport (about 1 hour away) and Orlando International Airport (about 2 hours away), with many domestic and international flight options.

Getting Around: Downtown St. Augustine is easy to explore on foot, but renting a car is recommended for visiting beaches and restaurants along A1A. Parking is generally convenient outside the historic district.

Where to Stay: Stay in the historic downtown for easy access to attractions or choose Anastasia Island for a relaxing beachside experience.

Things to Do: Popular activities include historic walking tours, ghost tours, and sightseeing around the city’s famous landmarks.

This guide highlights some of the best restaurants and cafés in St. Augustine, featuring local favorites near St. Augustine Beach. These hidden gems are just outside the busy tourist areas and offer delicious food, welcoming atmospheres, and memorable dining experiences.

1. St. Augustine Fish Camp

St. Augustine Fish Camp is a waterfront seafood restaurant known for its fresh coastal dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and beautiful views. The restaurant features a modern nautical atmosphere and friendly service.

Popular menu items include Shrimp & Grits, Oyster Po’ Boys, clam chowder, blue crab, conch fritters, and fried octopus, along with burgers, chicken, and pork entrées for non-seafood lovers. Its excellent food, scenic location, and welcoming atmosphere make it one of the best places to eat in St. Augustine.

2. Asado Life

Asado Life offers a unique Argentinian open-flame grilling experience in a beautiful waterfront setting. The restaurant is famous for its prix fixe dinner menu, while lunch features favorites like the Asado Trio, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and the classic Pisco Sour. Guests can also shop for premium meats, seasonings, and specialty products in the on-site market. With authentic flavors, stunning views, and an upscale atmosphere, Asado Life is a must-visit restaurant in St. Augustine.

3. River + Fort

River + Fort is an upscale steak and seafood restaurant overlooking the Castillo de San Marcos and the waterfront. The restaurant features multiple dining levels, stylish interiors, craft cocktails, and a popular rooftop deck.

Signature dishes include the Stuffed New York Strip and Seared Scallops, both known for their beautiful presentation and rich flavors. The menu also offers fresh seafood, premium steaks, wines, handcrafted cocktails, and family-friendly options. Its elegant atmosphere and scenic views make River + Fort one of the best fine dining restaurants in St. Augustine.

4. The Floridian

Address: 72 Spanish St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

The Floridian is a farm-to-table restaurant known for Southern comfort food with a modern twist, fresh local ingredients, and creative cocktails. Its warm atmosphere and excellent service make it one of the top dining spots in St. Augustine.

5. Beachside Diner

Address: 451 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Beachside Diner is a retro-style breakfast and brunch spot known for its hearty meals, creative Bloody Marys, and friendly atmosphere. Popular dishes include the 2-2-2-2 breakfast, waffles with fresh fruit, biscuits and gravy, and chicken fried chicken. Its beachside location and delicious comfort food make it a favorite for breakfast in St. Augustine.

6. The Conch House

Address: 57 Comares Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32080

The Conch House is a Caribbean-inspired waterfront restaurant famous for its tiki hut seating, marina views, and tropical cocktails. Popular menu items include Conch Fritters, Jerk Chicken, Shrimp Anastasia, and Shrimp & Grits. Its relaxed island atmosphere and scenic outdoor dining make it a favorite spot for seafood and cocktails in St. Augustine.

7. Ice Plant Bar

Address: 110 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL

Ice Plant Bar is a historic farm-to-table restaurant famous for its craft cocktails, industrial-style setting, and locally inspired cuisine. Popular dishes include Blue Crab Beignets and Smoked Fish Dip, while signature cocktails like the Moonage Daydream showcase fresh botanical ingredients. Its unique atmosphere and creative drinks make it one of the best cocktail bars in St. Augustine.

8. Salt Life Food Shack

Address: 321 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Salt Life Food Shack is an upscale beachside seafood restaurant known for its happy hour deals, cocktails, oysters, poke bowls, sushi, and coastal-inspired dishes. Popular favorites include raw and baked oysters, tuna rolls, shrimp brochette, and margaritas. Its modern surf-style atmosphere and location across from the beach make it a great spot for lunch, dinner, or happy hour in St. Augustine.

9. Prohibition Kitchen

Address: 119 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Prohibition Kitchen is a vintage-style gastropub known for its specialty burgers, Southern comfort food, craft cocktails, boozy milkshakes, and live music. Popular favorites include the PK Signature Burger, Bootlegger Burger, and boiled peanuts. Its lively atmosphere and creative menu make it a great stop for lunch or dinner in downtown St. Augustine.

10. O’Steen’s

Address: 205 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

O’Steen’s is a casual family-owned seafood restaurant famous for its crispy fried shrimp, crab cakes, clam chowder, and Southern-style sides. A St. Augustine favorite since the 1960s, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.

Note: The restaurant is cash only.

11. The Blue Hen Café

Address: 223 W King St Ste A, St. Augustine, FL 32084

The Blue Hen Café is a popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its Southern comfort food, homemade biscuits, fried chicken, shrimp & grits, and hearty sandwiches. Signature dishes include the Yard Bird and Fried Green Tomato BLT, making it a favorite for a satisfying breakfast or lunch.

12. The Village Garden Food Truck Park

Address: 1480 S Old A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080

The Village Garden Food Truck Park features a variety of food trucks serving street tacos, acai bowls, smoothies, coffee, salads, and Buddha bowls. With its relaxed outdoor setting, it’s a great stop for a quick, fresh, and casual meal near the beach.

13. Blackfly

Address: 108 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Blackfly is a relaxed bistro known for its fresh seafood, premium steaks, wood-fired pizza, and extensive wine list. Popular dishes include fried shrimp, scallops, beef tips, and the catch of the day, making it an excellent choice for fine dining.

14. Pizza Time

Address: 124 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Pizza Time is a popular fast-casual pizzeria famous for its oversized gourmet pizza slices with toppings like burrata, lasagna, chicken parmesan, and eggplant parmesan.

 Cash only, it’s one of the must-visit pizza spots in St. Augustine.

15. Sunset Grille

Address: 421 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080

Sunset Grille is a family-friendly beachfront restaurant offering fresh seafood, pasta, salads, sandwiches, and classic American dishes. Popular choices include the Sunset Salad, Sunset Shrimp Pasta, and signature cocktails. Its relaxed atmosphere and extensive menu make it a great dining option near the beach.

16. Auggie’s Draft Room

Address: 3 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Auggie’s Draft Room is a self-serve tap house known for its pour-your-own beer system, affordable burgers, and casual atmosphere. It’s a fun place to enjoy a quick meal and sample a variety of beers while exploring downtown St. Augustine.

1. Llama:

 Fine dining featuring authentic Peruvian cuisine and beautifully presented dishes.

2. Forgotten Tonic:

  A stylish restaurant serving creative American cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.

3. Aunt Kate’s:

  A waterfront seafood restaurant near Vilano Beach, known for fresh seafood and scenic views.

4. Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille:

 A popular Cajun-Creole restaurant famous for seafood, Southern flavors, and its beautiful courtyard.

1. A1A Burrito Works

Address: 671 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080

A1A Burrito Works is a popular Tex-Mex restaurant known for its tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and the famous UFO a large tortilla filled with flavorful meats, beans, fresh toppings, and sauces. It’s a great choice for a quick, satisfying meal near the beach.

2. Elkhouse Eatery

Address: 4900 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Elkhouse Eatery is a cozy American restaurant specializing in elk, buffalo, fresh seafood, and locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include Braised Elk Tips, Parmesan-Crusted Rainbow Trout, Ahi Tuna, Cheese Curds, and Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Its unique menu and rustic atmosphere make it a standout dining destination.

3. Terra & Acqua

Address: 134 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Terra & Acqua is an Italian restaurant known for its fresh pasta, seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and outdoor patio. Popular dishes include Fritto Misto, Gnocchi, and Sausage Ravioli.Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for Italian cuisine.

4. Paladar Cuban Eatery

Address: 340 CBL Dr Suite 105, St. Augustine, FL 32086

Paladar Cuban Eatery is a Cuban café and bakery famous for its Cuban sandwiches, yuca fries, empanadas, and homemade desserts. Its authentic flavors and casual setting make it a favorite for Cuban cuisine.

5. Beachcomber Restaurant & Bar

Address: 2 A St, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080

Beachcomber Restaurant & Bar is a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood, Cuban sandwiches, fried alligator, and tropical cocktails. Favorites include the Ruby Red Shrimp and Mule cocktail, while its ocean views and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best beachside dining spots in St. Augustine.

6. The Kookaburra

The Kookaburra is a popular local coffee shop known for its flat whites, iced coffees, pour-overs, and specialty coffee drinks. It also sells freshly roasted coffee beans, making it a favorite stop for coffee lovers exploring St. Augustine.

Downtown St. Augustine is home to many excellent restaurants. Visit The Floridian for Southern comfort food, fresh salads, sandwiches, and craft cocktails, or dine at Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant chain, known for its authentic Cuban and Spanish cuisine, Cuban sandwiches, sangria, and beautiful historic setting.

1. The Reef Restaurant

Address: 4100 Coastal Hwy (A1A), St. Augustine, FL 32084

The Reef Restaurant is a waterfront dining destination offering fresh seafood, steaks, poultry, pasta, and locally sourced specialties. With panoramic Atlantic Ocean views from both its indoor dining room and outdoor patio, it’s one of the best oceanfront restaurants in St. Augustine for a scenic meal.

2. Columbia Restaurant

 Address: 98 St. George St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
 Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Columbia Restaurant is an award-winning Spanish and Cuban restaurant serving authentic Cuban sandwiches, paella, seafood, steaks, tapas, and Spanish-inspired specialties. The restaurant is famous for its elegant Spanish-style décor, hand-painted tiles, artwork, and beautiful courtyard fountain. Named one of Florida’s top restaurants since 1967, it’s a must-visit dining destination in historic St. Augustine.

Services: Dine-in, reservations, curbside pickup, private events, banquets, and catering.

3. O.C. White’s Restaurant

O.C. White’s Restaurant is a historic bayfront dining spot known for its fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and Old Florida charm. Its waterfront views and relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to enjoy lunch or dinner in St. Augustine.

1. Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila

Casa Reina serves authentic Mexican cuisine, handcrafted margaritas, and tequila in a stylish bayfront setting. It’s a great spot to enjoy Latin-inspired flavors with scenic waterfront views.

2. Pepper’s Cocina and Tequila Bar

Pepper’s Cocina and Tequila Bar is a family-owned Mexican restaurant offering tacos, burritos, fajitas, and refreshing cocktails. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for casual dining.

3. Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen

Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen features farm-to-table comfort food paired with handcrafted cocktails. The upscale yet relaxed setting is perfect for lunch, dinner, or drinks.

4. Avilés Restaurant and Lounge

Avilés Restaurant and Lounge offers fine dining with global cuisine and Spanish influences. Elegant décor and creative dishes make it a great choice for special occasions.

5. Raintree Restaurant

Raintree Restaurant is known for its intercontinental cuisine served in an elegant, historic setting. Guests enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, pasta, and attentive service.

6. 17 King

17 King is a lively restaurant featuring live music, creative American cuisine, and handcrafted cocktails. It’s a great place for a fun evening in downtown St. Augustine.

7. 180 Vilano Grill & Pizza

180 Vilano Grill & Pizza serves American favorites, Italian dishes, pizzas, and seafood in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

8. 1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop

1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop offers upscale coastal dining with stunning Atlantic Ocean views. Enjoy seafood, cocktails, and rooftop seating in a relaxed setting.

9. 2nd Bay Brewing Company

2nd Bay Brewing Company is a family-owned craft brewery offering a rotating selection of locally brewed beers in a relaxed environment.

10. 3Natives

3Natives specializes in healthy smoothies, acai bowls, wraps, and vegan-friendly meals. It’s a great choice for a fresh and nutritious bite.

11. A Cup of Joy Coffee

A Cup of Joy Coffee serves specialty coffee, espresso drinks, and sweet treats from its mobile coffee truck for everyday customers and events.

12. Aberdeen Acai & Smoothie Shop

Aberdeen Acai & Smoothie Shop offers fresh smoothies, acai bowls, and healthy snacks, making it a perfect stop for a refreshing treat.

13. Address Coffee

Address Coffee is a specialty café known for quality coffee and a cozy atmosphere. It is currently temporarily closed while relocating.

If you love Hollywood history, a trip to Culver City is a must. Home to iconic film studios and a thriving restaurant scene, it’s the perfect place to explore legendary movie landmarks while enjoying exceptional local dining.

1.  Creeks Bar & Grill

2 Creeks Bar & Grill is a family-friendly restaurant serving American classics, seafood, and cocktails. Its welcoming atmosphere suits both casual meals and date nights.

2. African Love Kitchen

African Love Kitchen serves authentic Tanzanian cuisine with traditional recipes and rich African flavors in a welcoming setting.

3. AJ’s Kitchen & Cocktails

AJ’s Kitchen & Cocktails offers American cuisine, small plates, cocktails, and full meals in a stylish clubhouse atmosphere.

4. Al Dente’s Ristorante Italiano

Al Dente’s Ristorante Italiano serves classic Italian dishes, including fresh pasta, pizza, and seafood inspired by Boston’s North End.

5. Al’s Pizza

Al’s Pizza is known for traditional Italian pizzas, pasta, calzones, and family-friendly dining made with fresh ingredients.

6. Alfred’s

Alfred’s combines pizza, arcade games, live entertainment, and local art, creating a fun dining experience for all ages.

7. Alice & Pete’s Pub

Alice & Pete’s Pub is a cozy Irish-style pub serving hearty meals, cocktails, and a wide selection of beers.

8. Alms + Fare

Alms + Fare is a wellness bakery and café offering fresh baked goods, coffee, tea, smoothies, and healthy treats.

9. American Gator Club

American Gator Club serves American favorites and cocktails in an indoor-outdoor setting inspired by Florida’s wildlife.

10. Anastasia Diner

Anastasia Diner is a local favorite serving Southern-inspired breakfasts, brunch, and classic comfort food.

11. Anchor 28

Anchor 28 specializes in fresh seafood, brunch, and coastal favorites served in a relaxed waterfront atmosphere.

12. Andaman Asian Bistro

Andaman Asian Bistro offers Thai cuisine, sushi, pho, and Asian specialties made with fresh ingredients.

13. Andaman Asian Cuisine

Andaman Asian Cuisine serves Thai and Asian fusion dishes, featuring balanced sweet, sour, salty, and creamy flavors.

14. Anejo Cocina Mexicana

Anejo Cocina Mexicana offers authentic Mexican food, margaritas, and tequila in a modern and vibrant setting.

15. Ann O’Malley’s Deli and Pub

Ann O’Malley’s is a traditional Irish pub known for corned beef, Guinness, sandwiches, and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere.

St. Augustine is a food lover’s destination, offering everything from fresh seafood and Southern comfort food to Italian, Cuban, Mexican, and international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a waterfront restaurant, a cozy café, or an upscale fine dining experience, the city’s diverse culinary scene has something for everyone. No matter where you choose to dine, St. Augustine promises memorable flavors, warm hospitality, and a dining experience you’ll want to enjoy again.

i. What are the best restaurants in St. Augustine, Florida?

Some of the top restaurants include St. Augustine Fish Camp, The Floridian, Columbia Restaurant, River + Fort, Beachcomber Restaurant & Bar, and Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille.

ii. What food is St. Augustine famous for?

St. Augustine is famous for fresh seafood, including shrimp, oysters, crab, and fish, as well as Southern comfort food, Cuban cuisine, and Spanish-inspired dishes.

iii. Are there waterfront restaurants in St. Augustine?

Yes. Popular waterfront restaurants include River + Fort, The Reef Restaurant, Beachcomber Restaurant & Bar, O.C. White’s Restaurant, and St. Augustine Fish Camp.

iv. Which restaurants are best for fine dining in St. Augustine?

For an upscale dining experience, try River + Fort, Asado Life, Avilés Restaurant and Lounge, or Blackfly.

v. Are there family-friendly restaurants in St. Augustine?

Yes. Sunset Grille, Beachside Diner, Salt Life Food Shack, and Pizza Time are great choices for families.

v. When is the best time to visit restaurants in St. Augustine?

Lunch and early dinner are usually less crowded, while weekends and holidays can be busy. Making reservations is recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist seasons.