St. Augustine’s dining landscape is a living testament to its rich history, dotted with a charming array of historic restaurants that have become indispensable to the city’s cultural tapestry. These iconic establishments don’t just serve up delectable dishes; they offer a genuine taste of St. Augustine’s storied past.
In this guide, we’ll venture into some of St. Augustine’s most celebrated historic dining establishments, each with its unique tale to tell. From the Old City House Inn and Restaurant, a historic gem dating back to the 19th century, to the elegant Columbia Restaurant, founded in 1905, you’ll have the opportunity to savor not only the flavors of the past but also the captivating stories that have shaped this coastal city.
As you dine at these historic venues, you’ll be transported back in time, experiencing the ambiance, architecture, and culinary traditions that have been carefully preserved for generations. So, join us on this flavorful journey through St. Augustine’s rich culinary heritage, where the past comes alive on your plate.
Culinary Bliss at The Raintree Restaurant, 1981 in St. Augustine
Indulge in an exquisite dining experience that transcends time. Discover The Raintree, where flavors meet…
Savor Culinary Excellence at O.C. White’s in St. Augustine
Indulge in the art of fine dining at O.C. White’s, where exquisite flavors and waterfront…
Southern Delights at The Floridian in St. Augustine
Embark on a culinary journey at The Floridian, where vibrant flavors and Southern charm converge…
Savoring History: Columbia Restaurant, 1905 in St. Augustine
Indulge in the Timeless Delights of Columbia Restaurant St. Augustine, the oldest city in the…
Historic Restaurants of St. Augustine: A Culinary Journey Through Time
St. Augustine’s culinary scene is a delightful journey through time, where historic restaurants not only satisfy your palate but also provide a window into the city’s rich heritage. In this guide, we invite you to explore some of St. Augustine’s top historic dining establishments, where flavors from the past are artfully preserved, allowing you to savor the city’s unique legacy. The city’s historic restaurants offer a gastronomic journey that’s as much about the past as it is about flavors. Let’s explore some of these iconic eateries and their unique offerings.
Columbia Restaurant: A Century of Spanish Flavors
- Specialty Dishes: Established in 1905 by the Hernandez Gonzmart family, Columbia Restaurant is Florida’s oldest restaurant. Renowned for its 1905 Salad, a unique blend of julienned ham, Swiss cheese, olives, and a special dressing, and the traditional Paella “a la Valenciana”, this restaurant is a testament to authentic Spanish cuisine.
- Flamenco Nights: Adding to its historic charm, the restaurant hosts Flamenco dance performances, a nod to Spain’s vibrant culture and the family’s commitment to preserving it.
The Floridian: Southern Comforts with a Twist
- Farm-to-Table Philosophy: The Floridian prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients, reflecting St. Augustine’s agricultural heritage. Dishes like the Southern Cornbread Stack and Datil-Balsamic Glazed Salmon showcase the region’s flavors.
- Historic Building: Housed in a 19th-century building, the restaurant’s interiors, with vintage decor and photographs, transport diners back in time.
O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits: A Nautical Legacy
- Seafood Specialties: Located in a building that dates back to 1790, O.C. White’s offers a seafood extravaganza. The Captain’s Tuna, seared with sesame seeds, and the Pirate’s Treasure Chest, a medley of seafood delights, are crowd favorites.
- Ghostly Tales: The restaurant, with its long history, is believed to be haunted, adding a touch of mystery to the dining experience.
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille: A Taste of New Orleans
- Creole and Cajun Flavors: Bringing the flavors of New Orleans to St. Augustine, Harry’s is known for its Shrimp and Scallop Orleans and the classic Louisiana Gumbo.
- Live Music Nights: In addition to its culinary offerings, Harry’s hosts live music nights, capturing the lively spirit of New Orleans.
The Bunnery Bakery & Café: Sweet Traditions
- Bakery Delights: Established in the 1970s by Jacques and Isabelle, the Bunnery is famous for its Sticky Buns and Palmetto Pastries, recipes that have been passed down through generations.
- Historic Setting: Located in a building that once served as a Spanish bakery in the 1800s, the Bunnery continues the tradition, offering freshly baked goods every day.
St. Augustine’s historic restaurants offer more than just meals; they provide a culinary experience steeped in history. From century-old Spanish eateries to establishments that capture the essence of the South, each restaurant tells a story. Whether it’s through their dishes, the architecture, or the events they’ve hosted, these eateries are a testament to St. Augustine’s rich culinary heritage. Dining in any of these places is not just about savoring flavors but also about relishing the city’s storied past.
Historic Figures Behind St. Augustine’s Culinary Legacy
St. Augustine’s historic restaurants are not just about the food; they’re also about the visionaries who either founded these iconic eateries or owned the buildings that now house them. These figures, with their foresight and passion, have left an indelible mark on the city’s culinary and architectural landscape.
Columbia Restaurant: The Hernandez Gonzmart Legacy
- Casimiro Hernandez Sr.: The founder of Florida’s oldest restaurant, Casimiro Hernandez Sr. established Columbia Restaurant in 1905. His vision was to bring authentic Spanish cuisine to the heart of Florida. The restaurant, which started as a small café, has now expanded to multiple locations, but the original in St. Augustine remains a testament to Hernandez’s culinary dream.
The Floridian: A Revival of Southern Traditions
- Jeff and Genie McNally: While the exact origins of the building that houses The Floridian are shrouded in history, the current owners, Jeff and Genie McNally, have played a pivotal role in reviving and preserving its historic charm. Their commitment to sustainable, farm-to-table dining reflects both the city’s agricultural roots and their personal passion for authentic Southern cuisine.
O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits: The White Family’s Nautical Connection
- Captain Oliver Charles White: The building that now houses O.C. White’s was purchased in the late 19th century by Captain Oliver Charles White, a prominent figure in St. Augustine’s maritime history. While the building has seen various transformations over the years, Captain White’s legacy lives on, not just in the restaurant’s name but also in its nautical-themed decor and seafood specialties.
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille: A Tribute to Harry
- Harry: While much about the original Harry remains a mystery, his love for New Orleans’ vibrant culture and cuisine inspired the establishment of Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille. The restaurant, which brings a slice of the Big Easy to St. Augustine, stands as a tribute to Harry’s passion for Creole and Cajun flavors.
The Bunnery Bakery & Café: The French Connection
- Jacques and Isabelle: In the 1970s, a French couple, Jacques and Isabelle, established The Bunnery Bakery & Café. While the building’s history dates back to the 1800s when it served as a Spanish bakery, Jacques and Isabelle introduced St. Augustine to their family’s cherished recipes, blending European baking traditions with the city’s Spanish roots.
The historic restaurants of St. Augustine are as much about the figures behind them as they are about the dishes they serve. These visionaries, whether they were culinary pioneers or custodians of historic buildings, have played a crucial role in shaping the city’s gastronomic landscape. Their stories, intertwined with the history of St. Augustine, add depth and flavor to every dining experience in these iconic eateries.
Preserving St. Augustine’s Culinary Heritage
These historic dining establishments, like The Floridian, continue to serve as guardians of St. Augustine’s culinary heritage. As you savor dishes that have been perfected over decades, you become part of a living tradition that has defined the city for generations. St. Augustine’s historic restaurants offer more than just meals; they offer an authentic taste of the city’s soul and an opportunity to dine with history.
In conclusion, St. Augustine’s historic restaurants are like time machines, transporting you to eras where elegance, tradition, and flavor converged. Whether you’re a local looking to reconnect with your city’s roots or a visitor eager to savor the essence of St. Augustine, these establishments promise a dining experience that blends cuisine and history in the most delicious way.
