Exploring Off the Beaten Path Restaurants in St Augustine

Introduction

St Augustine, Florida, is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and delicious food. With its array of restaurants, it can be overwhelming to choose where to dine. Here, you can find classic American fare, traditional Spanish and Latin American cuisine, and unique dishes from around the world.

However, many of the most popular restaurants in St Augustine are well known and can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the crowds and discover the hidden gems of St Augustine’s culinary scene, you have to venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known restaurants.

In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the best off the beaten path restaurants in St Augustine. From cozy cafes to seafood shacks, each of these restaurants offers a unique dining experience and delicious food. Read on to discover the hidden gems of St Augustine.

Rocks on the Roof

Rocks on the Roof is a hidden gem located on the rooftop of The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens, a historic bed and breakfast in St Augustine. This cozy spot features stunning views of the city and the Matanzas River, as well as an eclectic menu featuring a mix of classic American dishes and creative takes on traditional Spanish and Latin American cuisine.

Start your meal with a selection of small plates, like the crispy fried calamari or the Spanish-style mussels with chorizo. For the main course, try the fiery jalapeno-cheddar burger topped with crispy bacon and avocado, or the classic paella filled with succulent seafood and flavorful chorizo. Finish your meal with a signature cocktail and take in the stunning views of St Augustine.

Casa Maya

Casa Maya is a cozy Mexican restaurant tucked away in an unassuming strip mall in St Augustine. Here, you’ll find traditional Mexican dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Start your meal with a selection of appetizers, like the crispy chile rellenos filled with melted cheese, or the flavorful tamales filled with your choice of meat.

For the main course, try the carne asada tacos topped with pico de gallo and queso fresco, or the mole poblano filled with tender chicken. Finish your meal with a traditional Mexican dessert, like the creamy flan or the crispy churros. With its flavorful dishes and cozy atmosphere, Casa Maya is a must-visit for Mexican food lovers.

The Floridian

The Floridian is a cozy cafe located in the heart of St Augustine. This spot offers a menu of classic American dishes with a Florida twist. Start your meal with a selection of appetizers, like the crispy fried green tomatoes or the tangy key lime shrimp. For the main course, try the classic shrimp and grits served with grilled peppers and onions, or the classic Floridian burger topped with melted cheese and bacon.

Finish your meal with a slice of key lime pie and take in the cozy atmosphere of The Floridian. With its classic dishes and unique takes on American cuisine, The Floridian is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

The Tini Martini Bar

The Tini Martini Bar is a hidden gem located in St Augustine’s historic district. This spot offers an extensive selection of martinis, cocktails, and craft beers. Start your evening with a signature cocktail, like the spicy jalapeno margarita or the classic gin martini.

For something a little different, try one of the signature martinis, like the refreshing cucumber martini or the flavorful espresso martini. The Tini Martini Bar also offers an extensive selection of craft beers, including local brews from St Augustine and beyond. With its cozy atmosphere and extensive selection of drinks, The Tini Martini Bar is the perfect spot for a night out.

The Reef

The Reef is a seafood shack located on Anastasia Island, a few miles from downtown St Augustine. This spot offers a menu of classic seafood dishes, like fried shrimp and fish tacos, as well as unique takes on traditional dishes. Start your meal with the signature conch fritters, served with a tangy remoulade sauce.

For the main course, try the seafood platter, filled with crispy fried shrimp, scallops, and oysters. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try the signature blackened grouper sandwich topped with a creamy tartar sauce. Finish your meal with a slice of key lime pie and take in the beautiful views of the island. With its fresh seafood and stunning views, The Reef is a must-visit for seafood lovers.

The St Augustine Distillery

The St Augustine Distillery is a hidden gem located in the heart of St Augustine. This spot offers a selection of craft spirits made with locally-sourced ingredients. Stop by for a tour of the distillery and sample a selection of signature spirits, like the St Augustine rum or the St Augustine whiskey.

You can also enjoy a selection of craft cocktails, like the signature St Augustine mule or the classic whiskey sour. The St Augustine Distillery also offers a selection of craft beers, as well as small bites, like the signature smoked fish dip or the classic Cuban sandwich. With its unique spirits and creative cocktails, The St Augustine Distillery is the perfect spot for a night out.

Meehan’s Irish Pub

Meehan’s Irish Pub is a cozy spot located in the heart of St Augustine. This spot offers a selection of classic Irish dishes, like shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash, as well as an extensive selection of beers and spirits. Start your meal with the signature Irish nachos, topped with melted cheese, bacon, and jalapenos.

For the main course, try the classic fish and chips, served with a tangy tartar sauce. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try the corned beef and cabbage, a traditional Irish dish. Finish your meal with a pint of Guinness and take in the cozy atmosphere of Meehan’s Irish Pub. With its classic dishes and warm atmosphere, Meehan’s Irish Pub is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

The Milltop Tavern and Listening Room

The Milltop Tavern and Listening Room is a cozy spot located on the waterfront in St Augustine. This spot offers a selection of classic American dishes, like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as an extensive selection of craft beers and wines. Start your meal with a selection of small plates, like the crispy fried pickles or the flavorful mac and cheese.

For the main course, try the classic cheeseburger topped with melted cheese and crispy bacon, or the flavorful fish tacos topped with a tangy slaw. Finish your meal with a selection of craft beers or wines, and take in the stunning views of the waterfront. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, The Milltop Tavern and Listening Room is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

The Tasting Room

The Tasting Room is a hidden gem located in St Augustine’s historic district. This spot offers an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and spirits. Start your evening with a selection of craft beers, like the St Augustine Blonde Ale or the St Augustine Red Ale.

For something a little different, try one of the signature craft cocktails, like the refreshing strawberry daiquiri or the classic gin and tonic. The Tasting Room also offers an extensive selection of wines, from classic American varietals to unique European blends. With its extensive selection of drinks and cozy atmosphere, The Tasting Room is the perfect spot for a night out.

The Floridian Beachside Grill

The Floridian Beachside Grill is a cozy spot located on the beach in St Augustine. This spot offers a selection of classic American dishes, like burgers and sandwiches, as well as fresh seafood dishes. Start your meal with a selection of appetizers, like the crispy fried calamari or the tangy conch fritters.

For the main course, try the classic cheeseburger topped with melted cheese and crispy bacon, or the grilled shrimp tacos topped with a tangy slaw. Finish your meal with a scoop of homemade ice cream and take in the stunning views of the beach. With its fresh seafood and cozy atmosphere, The Floridian Beachside Grill is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

Summary

St Augustine, Florida, is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and delicious food. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore the hidden gems of St Augustine’s culinary scene, venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known restaurants.

From cozy cafes to seafood shacks, each of these restaurants offers a unique dining experience and delicious food. Try Rocks on the Roof for classic American fare and traditional Spanish and Latin American cuisine, or Casa Maya for traditional Mexican dishes. For a casual lunch or dinner, try The Floridian or The Reef. For a night out, visit The Tini Martini Bar or The St Augustine Distillery. Or, for a unique dining experience, visit Meehan’s Irish Pub or The Milltop Tavern and Listening Room.

No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something delicious at one of St Augustine’s off the beaten path restaurants. So, the next time you’re in town, make sure to explore the hidden gems of St Augustine’s culinary scene.