Top 5 Downtown St. Augustine Restaurants: A Food Lover’s Guide

St. Augustine, so that beautiful, ancient city, very much brims with history and charm, plus it has got a pretty fantastic food scene. Finding a spot that you’ll love, too, it’s almost overwhelming with so many options in the historic downtown. But not to worry! Very much based on personal experiences and some serious local digging, I’ve compiled a list of five places that consistently stand out. These restaurants, too, offer something that is just a little different, very tasty, and totally worth trying in historic St. Augustine.

1. The Floridian Restaurant: Southern Comfort with a Twist

When you’re in the mood for something familiar, that’s made with care, anyway, head to The Floridian. That spot, too it’s almost where Southern comfort food meets, very interesting, a modern, sustainable approach. Instead of your standard greasy spoon fare, very many dishes celebrate local ingredients and offer vegetarian and vegan options that will definitely satisfy meat-eaters in St. Augustine. The atmosphere, as a matter of fact, it’s cozy and welcoming, making it a great place for both a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner.

You see, the shrimp and grits, too, are something that is highly recommended. But if you want to try something unique, that is for sure, give the Minorcan chowder a try! Made with datil peppers, too it’s got a kick that is oh so unique to this area, almost like a warm hug on a chilly day in St. Augustine.

Must-Try Dishes

Shrimp and Grits: It’s a southern classic, reimagined with fresh, local shrimp.
Minorcan Chowder: As I was saying, a local specialty with a spicy kick from datil peppers.
Black Bean Burgers: Vegetarian? Not a problem! Very tasty Black bean burgers.

2. Catch 27: Seafood Fresh from the Docks

Being right by the ocean, naturally, St. Augustine just has to have a place that serves super fresh seafood, too, right? Catch 27 is that spot, very clearly. Everything from the daily catches to the oysters is, so delicious. All that, and more, actually comes straight from local waters. The atmosphere, definitely it’s casual, with an outdoor patio, that’s super perfect, anyway, to enjoy the Florida sunshine while indulging in some very tasty eats in St. Augustine.

That said, if you love seafood, you, very certainly need to try their grilled fish tacos. I mean, those dishes, too, are always a hit, packed with flavor, that are sure to please. Do you like a more substantial meal? Very, very well, the shrimp boil, that dish, so good! Just seasoned and perfectly cooked shrimp that’s, you know, simple, still it is super delicious in St. Augustine.

Must-Try Dishes

Grilled Fish Tacos: You see, these are super fresh and flavorful, too, like always.
Shrimp Boil: In fact, a generous helping of perfectly seasoned local shrimp.
Oysters: That dish, too it’s always fresh from local waters, they are really good when done right.

3. Columbia Restaurant: A Taste of Old-World Charm

For a trip back in time, of course, there’s the Columbia Restaurant, almost a St. Augustine staple, that you just need to experience, yet. You see, it is the oldest restaurant in Florida, plus it is a family-owned spot. As a matter of fact, it has been serving up traditional Spanish cuisine for over a century! As a matter of fact, stepping inside, that place feels like going back to old-world Spain, very ornate tiles and flamenco dancers on some nights in St. Augustine.

First time to visit? Anyway, make sure to try the Original “1905” Salad. They, too, make it right at your table, it’s more than just a dish. In fact, it is an experience! And the paella? Of course, that one, very tasty, too, packed with seafood, rice, and saffron, is ideal for sharing with your family. To be honest, don’t even consider missing the chance to visit that restaurant because, actually, it really is such a treasure of St. Augustine in St. Augustine.

Must-Try Dishes:

Original “1905” Salad: I mean, this table-side classic is not to be missed.
Paella: Saffron, rice, seafood – all ingredients that you will love in a meal that you should definitely share.
Sangria: Clearly, very refreshing to complement your Spanish meal.

4. Pizzalley’s Chianti Room: Italian Flavors with a Local Vibe

That is to say, if you’re very much in the mood for Italian food, very arguably Pizzalley’s Chianti Room, too, might be exactly what you want. Anyway, the pizzas here are known for having a perfectly crisp crust and lots of delicious toppings, that will satisfy any craving in St. Augustine. In that case, besides the pizzas, Pizzalley’s also has, kind of delicious pasta dishes and classic appetizers in a setting that makes people feel warm, at home, too, that feels like, well, just home, you know.

Also, the “pizza by the slice” choice is definitely perfect for grabbing a snack as you wander about the old city, even if the lasagna is basically just as satisfying when you just want to sit and relish the setting. I mean, you should have at least a slice here. Do you like Italian? To be honest, this restaurant really is one you can trust in St. Augustine.

Must-Try Dishes:

Pizza by the Slice: This one, perfect for a super easy bite while exploring.
Lasagna: You see, this dish it is hearty and full of classic Italian flavor, as it is always the perfect thing when done right.

5. Llama Restaurant: Peruvian Cuisine at its Best

For something so very much different and flavorful, the Llama Restaurant basically introduces you to the world of real Peruvian tastes. The restaurant really knows what it does in mixing bold, rich, complex flavors with, in short, fresh ingredients in all of their plates in St. Augustine.

The Ceviche Classico with fish is pretty awesome, of course, if you’re game to try one of Peru’s more renowned dishes. Plus, the Lomo Saltado mixes meat with fried potatoes, onions, soy sauce, and it comes with rice in a warm plate that has a punch of local vibes that gives an additional punch that will satisfy in St. Augustine. The atmosphere is hip and classy; great if you like going on dates or celebrating moments with buddies. So really, prepare for something really unique and fun here.

Must-Try Dishes:

Ceviche Classico: One of Peru’s most iconic plate. Try it if you have an adventurous tastebud.
Lomo Saltado: An Asian-influenced Peruvian stir-fry that has, in fact, juicy meat, and crunchy fries, and a load of vegetables.