Our Favorite Casual Eats: St Augustine, Florida
In a city as tourist-centric as St. Augustine, it is very easy to think that a majority of its casual eats will be overpriced and undervalued. Truth be told, that happens in any city that sees a lot of visitors, but I have regularly been surprised at just how much great ‘casual’ food you can find in and around St. Augustine, Florida….if you know where to look, of course.
The key is not to become fixated on Old Town. Is there good food in the heart of Old Town? Of course, there is. But the neighborhoods surrounding Old Town is where you will find a majority of locals and, as such, deals. Here are a few…
Because of course, we are going to start you off right smack dab in the middle of Old Town, St Augustine.
Prohibition Kitchen, offers a vibrant, 1920s-themed gastropub experience with daily live music. This popular spot emphasizes locally sourced ingredients for its diverse menu, featuring gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and unique small plates like PK Poutine. They boast an extensive bar with a wide selection of craft beers, wines, and spirits, including boozy hand-spun milkshakes. Prohibition Kitchen provides a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing, with options for takeout, catering, and accommodating various dietary needs like gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. They feature live music a few nights a week and has become something of a ‘hub’ in the heart of downtown. Try the brussel sprouts. They are siimply outstanding, as is most of their food, really. 119 St George Street in old town.
The Floridian is straight up OG when it comes to great casual eats in the heart of Old Town St. Augustine.
A lot of places will say it, but The Floridian is know for “Innovative Southern Fare for Omnivores, Herbivores and Locavores.” They use local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients to create unique southern dishes with a focus on freshness and health. The menu changes with the seasons and includes vegetarian options. They have a full bar and offer indoor and outdoor seating. The Floridian will be moving to a new location on Anastasia Island in Fall 2025, with their last day at the Spanish Street location being July 28, 2025. 72 Spanish Street Downtown thru end of July.
Boat Drinks, in St Aug’s newly happening “uptown” neighborhood, is a nautical-tropical bar and restaurant offering a laid-back atmosphere with a focus on fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes.
Boat Drinks makes no secret of the fact that they are a bar first with good food. Since moving to their new location, they have more seating and can accommodate many more people, but this remains a bar first. As such, you won’t find high chairs for babies or even a kids menu.
Boat Drinks is known for its extensive cocktail menu, frozen drinks, and wide selection of rums and beers. The menu features items like datil shrimp sliders, jerk chicken skewers, and an oyster bar. Their smash burger is regularly discussed as the best in the city. The reality is, we haven’t had anything-food or drink-that we didn’t love. 123 San Marco Avenue, St Augustine.
Family friendly by day, if the grilled cheese is your jam, then Sarbez is a must stop.
Located across the Bridge of Lions on Anastasia Blvd, Sarbez! is a vibrant spot blending gourmet grilled‑cheese creations, 24+ craft beers, and wines in a playful, retro‑arcade setting. The sandwiches are great, including a build‑your‑own option—plus vegan, gluten‑free and creative topping.
Guests can enjoy live music, happy‑hour specials, and 80s/90s arcade games before 8 pm; later, it becomes adults‑only Laid‑back, colorful, and buzzing, Sarbez! offers a uniquely fun dining experience a mile or so removed from ‘tourist central.’
Munch Marina offers a unique food truck park experience right on the water. The atmosphere is described as fantastic and awesome, with a great view. One standout item is the Lump Crab Grilled Cheese, a monster sandwich with provolone, goat cheese, caramelized onions, and house-made pepper jelly on sourdough. While the fried shrimp addition might be “meh” with a sweet, hushpuppy-like coating, the overall scene and the grilled cheese make it a memorable stop. There are usually several trucks parked there, but keep in mind they rotate, so your options will vary. No matter, it’s the best casual eats with a view in town. Easy access off of US1 too.
Photos courtesy of Asado Life
Asado Life is probably the most ‘upscale’ location on this list, but still somewhat casual especially at lunch time.
Asado Life offers a unique waterfront dining experience centered around fire-based cooking. Located on the San Sebastián River, it provides scenic views and a focus on community through the Argentinian tradition of “Asado,” or barbecue. Chef Matthew Brown creates prix fixe menus featuring thoughtfully sourced ingredients enhanced by the flavors of live fire grilling. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner with amenities including outdoor seating, a full bar, and is pet-friendly. 173 Shipyard Way, St Augustine
Others deserving of a look:
Odd Birds, Osprey Tacos, Blue Hen (Breakfast), Treylor Park, Paladar (Cuban) St Augustine Beach
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