St. Augustine, located in sunny Florida, isn’t just America’s oldest city with captivating history, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. While those draw you in, prepare your taste buds for another incredible discovery: a surprisingly vibrant and diverse culinary scene. Exploring what to eat in St Augustine is an adventure in itself, blending centuries of cultural influences with modern culinary creativity.
The city’s rich history, shaped by Spanish, British, and eventually American rule, along with its unique Minorcan population, has created a fascinating melting pot of flavors. This heritage is palpable in the local dishes, often giving traditional Southern fare a unique twist. Add to that the bounty of fresh seafood from the coast and a new wave of chefs pushing creative boundaries, and you have a foodie destination worth exploring bite by bite.
Discovering St. Augustine’s Unique Flavors
The story of St. Augustine is told not just through its ancient streets and historic forts, but also through its food. The Minorcans, who arrived in the 18th century, brought with them traditions that are still celebrated today, most famously in their unique conch chowder. This isn’t your typical New England style; it’s a spicy, tomato-based soup often featuring datil peppers, a local favorite known for their fruity heat.
Beyond the historical influences, St. Augustine’s dining landscape embraces global flavors. You’ll find everything from authentic Cuban cafes serving hearty breakfasts to Peruvian eateries offering adventurous dishes. This blend makes deciding what to eat in St Augustine a delightful challenge, promising a diverse range of culinary experiences packed into this charming, walkable city.
Top Culinary Experiences & What to Eat in St Augustine
Navigating the extensive options can be daunting, so I’ve curated a list of top spots and must-try dishes based on my own exploration. These places offer not just delicious food but also a true taste of the city’s character and culinary identity. From casual morning bites to upscale evening meals, here’s a guide to the best of what to eat in St Augustine.
Swillerbees Craft Doughnuts
Stepping into Swillerbees is like entering a wonderland for pastry lovers. Located conveniently near Flagler College and the central plaza, this donut shop truly earns the “craft” in its name. They redefine the humble donut with incredible flavors, textures, and eye-catching designs.
The display cases are packed with tempting options, from classic glazed and sprinkle-covered rings to elaborate creations piled high with toppings or swirled with fruit fillings. Each donut is substantial, fresh, and perfectly executed – soft and airy inside with a delightful texture outside. Choosing just one is the hardest part of the visit.
They also serve coffee, making it a perfect spot to grab a treat and relax at their small tables before exploring the city. While the fancy toppings are fun, I recommend trying a classic first to appreciate the quality of the donut itself – you won’t be disappointed. To sample more, grab a half dozen and share, or “share,” with your travel companions.
The Kookaburra Coffee Shop
An unexpected taste of Australia awaits you at The Kookaburra. This quirky coffee shop sits right on the edge of the central plaza and is famous for two things: excellent espresso and savory meat pies. Yes, hearty, flaky meat pies, a staple you might not expect when thinking about what to eat in St Augustine.
Their individual pies are generously sized, about 5 inches across, making them incredibly filling. The fillings range from traditional steak and cheese to unique combinations like Thai chicken chili. They also offer breakfast pies with cheese, egg, and herbs baked under a perfect pastry crust.
Finding Your Perfect Amateur Astronomy Telescope – Expert Guide 2025
Discover the Best Michigan Places to Visit for Unforgettable Adventures in 2024
Discover the Top 11 nevada places to visit
I tried the Jackaroo, a delicious mix of sausage, sweet potato, spinach, egg, and pepper jack cheese, all encased in that wonderful flaky pastry. It was rich and satisfying, perfect for fueling up for a day of sightseeing. The space is small, so grabbing your coffee and pie to go is often the best option.
Llama Restaurant
From the outside, Llama is unassuming, tucked away in a strip mall outside the historic district. But step inside, and you are transported into a world of refined Peruvian cuisine. Chef Marcel crafts an epicurean dream with a short, focused menu that allows him to perfect each dish.
The dining experience subtly shifts from casual during lunch to more upscale in the evening, reflecting the restaurant’s versatility. Chef Marcel’s attention to detail is evident from the small bowls of crunchy canchita (snacking corn) on each table to the artful plating inspired by Peru’s diverse landscapes.
While you should absolutely explore the traditional Peruvian offerings, which are fantastic, I must call out their burger. Having judged many burger competitions, I can confidently say the Llama burger is one of the absolute best I’ve ever had. It’s a must-order, even if it feels counter-intuitive at a Peruvian place.
La Herencia Cafe
For a taste of Cuba in St. Augustine, La Herencia Cafe is the spot. Tucked onto Aviles Street, often cited as the oldest street in the city, this cozy cafe feels instantly welcoming. Having experienced Cuban food firsthand, I can attest to the authenticity and heartiness of their offerings.
They are particularly famous for their breakfast, which includes Cuban classics like Cafe con Leche and substantial dishes featuring pulled pork, black beans, and fried plantains. I ordered the Gaujiro, a massive and incredibly satisfying plate with pulled pork piled over toast, served with a mountain of beans and plantains.
Their lunch menu continues with favorites like grilled sandwiches (including the classic Cuban) and traditional dishes such as ropa vieja. The meals here are not only delicious but deeply comforting, evoking fond memories of Cuban hospitality and flavors. It’s a mandatory stop when considering what to eat in St Augustine, especially for breakfast or lunch.
Casa De Vino 57
Imagine a serene escape featuring live music, curated wine flights, and exquisite charcuterie boards. That’s Casa De Vino 57. This true wine bar boasts a substantial selection of wines and a charming back garden area that feels like a hidden oasis perfect for unwinding or catching up with friends.
They offer wine by the glass or, for the adventurous, wine flights that provide excellent value and allow you to sample a variety. Live music is a regular feature, adding to the relaxed and sophisticated ambiance.
Their charcuterie boards are a highlight, allowing you to select from various meats and cheeses. These are artfully presented with accompaniments like honey, jams, baguettes, and the most incredible capers you’ve ever tasted. While they do offer other items like fish dips and sandwiches, the wine and cheese pairing is the quintessential Casa De Vino experience and a fantastic way to spend an afternoon or evening.
Catch 27
When you’re on the Florida coast, seafood is a must, and Catch 27 delivers in a spectacular way. Focusing on locally sourced, fresh daily catch, this restaurant elevates seafood beyond typical fried options. The young chef’s vision was to celebrate the natural flavors of the ocean’s bounty with light, creative spins on classic Southern dishes.
You won’t find heavy batters here (though a nod to Southern roots includes fried chicken on the menu). Instead, expect perfectly seared scallops, a masterful take on shrimp and grits (inspired by the chef’s mom!), and daily specials that truly showcase what was caught that day. It’s Southern cooking that feels fresh, local, and expertly prepared.
The adorable outdoor seating area adds to the charm. While everything on the menu is enticing, there’s one item you absolutely cannot miss: the deviled eggs. Trust me on this – they are exceptionally good and a perfect start to your meal at Catch 27. This place is essential for anyone exploring what to eat in St Augustine and looking for amazing seafood.
St Augustine Seafood Co
Sometimes, you just want a classic seafood fry, and St Augustine Seafood Co delivers simple, delicious comfort. Located right on the bustling St. George Street, this is a casual, order-at-the-counter spot with a straightforward menu done right. The space pays homage to the local shrimping and fishing history, adding a layer of authenticity.
The menu focuses on seafood baskets featuring shrimp, clams, and fish (available fried, grilled, or blackened) and two types of clam chowder. It’s clear what you’re there for – seafood. They offer a selection of signature sauces, and the Datil-Pickle Remoulade is an absolute standout, adding a unique local kick.
With outdoor seating perfect for people-watching on St. George Street and a few indoor tables, it’s an ideal lunch spot. It embodies the kind of relaxed, unpretentious dining experience I love, offering simple, casual, and truly satisfying seafood. Don’t skip the slaw – it’s incredibly fresh and complements the fried fish perfectly.
Urban Asado Pop-Ups
For a truly unique and local culinary event, seek out the Urban Asado pop-ups. This isn’t a traditional restaurant but a special collaboration between local chefs, centered around live-fire cooking on custom-built Asado grills by Nick of Urban Asado. These ticketed events, often held on Sundays at Nick’s shop, offer a family-style meal cooked right before your eyes.
There’s no set menu or assigned seating; it’s designed to feel like a large, informal cookout where the city’s top chefs come together to create something special. It’s an immersive experience that goes beyond just eating; you get to witness the magic of live-fire cooking and feel the strong sense of community among the chefs and attendees.
Occasionally, they host more formal, themed dinners with paired drinks, which are harder to get tickets for but are equally memorable. If you want a deep dive into the local culinary scene and witness impressive cooking techniques, grabbing tickets to an Urban Asado event is a must-do when deciding what to eat in St Augustine for a unique experience.
Mayday Ice Cream
No food tour is complete without dessert, and Mayday Ice Cream is a top contender in St. Augustine’s competitive scoop scene. They offer a delightful array of churned-in-house flavors, but one truly stands out for its local connection: their chocolate ice cream infused with the region’s signature datil pepper. It offers a surprising and delicious kick of fruity heat against the rich chocolate base.
Their small-batch session chocolates are always worth inquiring about for unique seasonal flavors. Pairing your scoop with their homemade waffle cone is highly recommended – it’s the perfect crunchy complement. They also offer homemade sprinkles and a small cookie with each cone, adding extra joy to the experience.
With over 20 enticing flavors like dirty chai, ice box lemon, raja honey, and bourbon pecan, you might need multiple visits to try them all. And for ultimate convenience, they even offer a delivery option. Mayday makes finding a sweet treat in St. Augustine easy and incredibly satisfying.
The Floridian Restaurant
The Floridian feels like a culinary cornerstone, a place where locals gather and visitors feel instantly at home. With a natural ease and friendly vibe, it embodies Southern hospitality. The space itself tells a story, with unique decor and a comfortable atmosphere that encourages lingering.
The menu is filled with inviting Southern-inspired dishes, ranging from creative salads and sandwiches to hearty hot entrees. One look at the pie case, showcasing fresh slices, and you’ll immediately start planning which one you hope is still available for dessert.
Many talented local chefs have honed their skills here before starting their own ventures, a testament to The Floridian’s significant role in the city’s food scene. Ordering a craft cocktail while admiring the unique wallpaper is part of the experience. To start, the biscuit and belly, along with the fried green tomatoes, are absolute must-tries. They offer a perfect introduction to the comforting, flavorful food The Floridian is known for. It’s a staple for anyone exploring what to eat in St Augustine.
Planning Your St. Augustine Food Adventure
With so many incredible options, the best way to explore what to eat in St Augustine is to arrive hungry and be open to trying diverse flavors. Don’t just stick to one type of cuisine; sample the Minorcan influences, the Cuban comfort food, the creative seafood, and the sweet treats.
Consider visiting at different times of day – a Cuban breakfast, a casual seafood lunch, a craft donut snack, and a Peruvian or Southern-inspired dinner. Many places are within the historic downtown area, making it easy to walk between stops. Researching opening hours and making reservations for dinner spots, especially on weekends, is a good idea.
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Eat in St Augustine
Q: What local dish is unique to St. Augustine?
A: The most famous local dish is Minorcan Conch Chowder, a spicy, tomato-based soup often featuring the local datil pepper. It’s distinctly different from other types of clam or conch chowder.
Q: Is St. Augustine a good city for foodies?
A: Absolutely! St. Augustine has a surprisingly dynamic and diverse food scene, blending historical influences with modern, chef-driven restaurants. You can find everything from casual local joints to upscale dining.
Q: Can I find fresh seafood in St. Augustine?
A: Yes, being on the coast, St. Augustine has access to fresh seafood. Many restaurants, like Catch 27 and St Augustine Seafood Co, specialize in local catches prepared in various ways, from traditional fries to creative, lighter dishes.
The food scene in St. Augustine is truly captivating, offering a depth and variety that mirrors the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. It’s a place you’ll want to return to, not just for the sights but for the tastes.