St. Augustine, Florida—America’s oldest city—is known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and Spanish architecture. But beyond the scenic sights and rich culture lies a thriving food scene that blends coastal cuisine with Southern comfort, international flavors, and unexpected culinary delights. This list shares where to eat in St. Augustine and what to order to satisfy every craving.
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The Floridian
The Floridian is a must for an authentic taste of Florida with a modern twist. The “Company’s Coming!” appetizer—pimento cheese, pickled veggies, fried green tomatoes, and toasted baguette—is a standout starter.
Entrées like the Brisket Pozole Verde and ‘N Waffles (pulled pork with bourbon fruit and buttermilk ricotta on a cornmeal waffle) are both imaginative and delicious. The datil pepper jam (A St. Augustine treasure!) and candied pecans take it all to the next level.
World Famous Oasis Restaurant & Tiki Bar
A laid-back sports bar and grill near the beach, Oasis is known for its big menu, live music, and fun vibes. From fish sandwiches to hearty breakfasts, it’s a great place to fuel up before or after a beach day and perfect for the whole family.
Go for the Shrimp Platter (grilled, blackened, or fried), while the Whaler Sandwich (grilled blackened or fried filet of fish with grilled onions, japs, banana peppers, bell peppers, & melted provolone) is a close runner-up. This restaurant can accommodate large groups. Come for football game days —they have over 30 TVs and the NFL Sunday Ticket.
Treylor Park
Quirky, fun, and original—Treylor Park serves elevated comfort food with a twist — think PB&J chicken wings, chicken & pancake tacos, and poke pizza. Add a creative cocktail, and you’ve got one of the coolest dining spots in town.
My fave dishes are the cheesesteak egg rolls with a beer cheese dipping sauce and the southern sloppy Joe. You’ll also find this highly popular, trendy restaurant in Tybee Island and Savannah.
The Blue Hen Cafe
The Blue Hen Cafe is a cozy, locals-loved breakfast and lunch spot. Expect Southern-style comfort food like pumpkin pancakes, blue crab quiche, breakfast burritos, and fabulous biscuits served with peach butter. They’re closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Some crowd-pleasing dishes on Blue Hen Cafe’s menu are corned beef hash, blue crab quiche, pumpkin pancakes, and the breakfast burrito. The biscuits are fabulous and even more elevated with peach butter.
Prohibition Kitchen
Step back in time at this 1920s-inspired gastropub in the heart of historic downtown. Prohibition Kitchen combines live music, craft cocktails, and creative food like duck fat fries, gourmet burgers, and bacon-wrapped dates for a one-of-a-kind night out.
Cantina Louie
Looking for delicious Mexican street food and refreshing specialty cocktails? Cantina Louie delivers in a vibrant pink and purple neon-lit atmosphere. Snack on queso and chips or dive into shrimp ceviche, tacos, enchiladas, or the standout SoCal Avocado Chicken with pineapple salsa.
And don’t miss the jalapeño margarita—it’s spicy, flavorful, and my husband’s go-to!
Crabby’s Beachside
For seafood with a view, Crabby’s is your go-to. Their beachfront location, that is as eye-catching as it is Instagram-worthy, serves up cold drinks, fresh oysters, fried shrimp, and grouper sandwiches. It’s an easygoing, breezy place to kick back and enjoy Florida life for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Standouts: Gator nuggets, stuffed mushrooms, Crabby’s baked oysters, and seafood forest.
Salt Life Food Shack
Salt Life offers a fun, surf-inspired vibe and a menu that’s all about fresh, coastal flavors. This beachside gem is ideal for a chill meal with friends or family, from sushi rolls and poke bowls to juicy burgers and seafood platters.
A standout is the Crunchy Chicken Thai Bowl, which features almond-crusted chicken over rice, veggies, and yellow curry sauce. The fresh coconut shavings elevate this dish to the next level.
Anastasia Diner
This classic mom-and-pop diner near the beach (south A1A) is a lesser-known gem for all-day breakfast, massive portions, and friendly service. Anastasia Diner is nothing fancy, but the home-cooked meals and retro vibe make it a hit with locals and tourists.
My granddaughter loved her pancakes, and my pastrami omelet was off the hook. I’m not complaining about the biscuits and gravy, either.
Columbia Restaurant
What’s the best place to eat in St. Augustine? Many would say Columbia Restaurant, and for good reason. Since 1905, this Florida institution has served incredible Spanish and Cuban dishes in an unforgettable setting.
Must-tries are the 1905 Salad, a classic Cuban sandwich, and a cortadito coffee. If you love their famous sangria, check out their retail shop for take-home pitcher sets and sangria mixes!
Metro Diner
Metro Diner, a regional chain, is beloved for its generous portions and comfort classics. Don’t miss the chicken and waffles or the cinnamon roll pancakes—Metro Diner nails diner fare with Southern flair. My favorite dishes are fried chicken & waffles with strawberry butter and meat-lovers scramble bowl (cheddar cheese and hollandaise sauce).
There are dozens of Metro Diner options in 12 states, such as in Louisville (KY), Huntsville (AL), and Lakeland (FL). Bonus: They serve breakfast all day!
Athena Restaurant
If you’re craving Greek cuisine, Athena, St. Augustine’s premiere Greek eatery, delivers traditional favorites like moussaka, spanakopita, gyros, and Greek salads. Located in the historic district, it’s a great option for a casual yet flavorful meal.
Start your meal with the fiery Saganaki (goat cheese alight with flames), served to your table with the classic Greek “Opa!” cheer.
Old City House Inn & Restaurant
Located in a historic 1873 building on the Old Town Trolley route, Old City House is as charming as it is delicious. Dine in the romantic orchid-filled courtyard and try the lamb with cabbage risotto—it’s melt-in-your-mouth good.
I discovered this gem on a food tour years ago, and it’s been unforgettable ever since.
Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille
Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille is a regional chain restaurant with a fun and lively vibe. It serves fresh “Lagniappe” seafood cooked in various ways: blackened, grilled, and fried. Harry’s has a Cajun-style menu that includes the likes of jambalaya, gumbo, and étouffée.
Some of the most popular items on the menu are the crawfish & shrimp étouffée and the blackened catfish, but my favorite is the jambalaya. Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille also has a great selection of cocktails perfect for sipping on while enjoying the food. Save room for dessert — Bananas Foster or Key Lime Pie.
Catch 27
Catch 27 is named for Florida, being the 27th state. It is all about fresh, locally sourced ingredients served in a relaxed yet historic setting. The 27 Trio appetizer (guac, datil pepper pimento cheese, and pico with fried tortillas) pairs perfectly with their signature margarita.
I highly recommend the Blackened Fish Tacos or Cuban Rice Bowl (with black beans, pico, brown rice, and aioli). They were both so good! Shrimp and Grits are the local’s favorite.
Amici Italian Restaurant
Fresh ingredients, hearty portions, and budget-friendly prices make Amici a must-visit for Italian food lovers. The Tortellini in basil cream sauce is my personal favorite. Everything from their hand-tossed pizza to Veal Parmigiana is delicious—and the house salad and fresh bread are the perfect way to start your dining experience.
Michael’s
Indulge in a foodie’s paradise at Michael’s, located on charming St. George Street, and delighting guests since 2006. This chef-driven restaurant features an eclectic menu focused on locally and sustainably sourced ingredients.
A must-try starter is the piquant peppers stuffed with goat cheese—rich, creamy, and flavorful. For your entrée, the Shrimp and Grits are creatively crafted and delicious, while the burger with bacon jam is next-level comfort food.
Chef Michael Lugo delivers a culinary experience you won’t forget, all set in a chic space.
Ford’s Garage
Ford’s Garage is where classic American fare meets retro cool. This burger-focused joint serves hand-pattied, never-frozen beef burgers with all the fixings, including delicious sandwiches, fresh salads, and more.
My top pick? The Mushroom & Swiss Burger on a pretzel bun—savory, juicy, and absolutely satisfying. (Pro tip: swap the fries for their crisp green beans.) The vintage garage-themed décor makes it a fun experience for the whole family.
And For Dessert… Peace Pie
Peace Pie is a small shop that serves homemade ice cream sandwiches. The ice cream, made with fresh, all-natural ingredients, is sandwiched between two delicious cookies. The cookies come in various flavors, including chocolate chip, oatmeal, and ginger snap.
Ice cream flavors include chocolate, vanilla, and key lime.
Final Thoughts
St. Augustine’s culinary scene is bursting with flavor, from beachside bites to downtown delights. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, gourmet cuisine, or just a good ol’ Southern breakfast, there’s something for every appetite in the Nation’s Oldest City.
Read more of our Florida food posts:
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Best Restaurants in Daytona Beach
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