St Augustine's Best Lunch [Updated 2025]

As I dove into the vibrant culinary scene of St. Augustine, I couldn't help but savor every bite along the way. After reviewing 12 top spots, I’m here to guide you through the absolute must-try lunches that this historic city has to offer.

Having spent years indulging in the local flavors, I’ve developed a taste for what truly makes a meal memorable. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, hearty sandwiches, or something with a twist, I’ve got the inside scoop on where to find the most delicious bites. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!

The Blue Hen Café

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Worth the wait
Amazing peach butter
Tender chicken biscuits
Fluffy pumpkin pancakes

Review of The Blue Hen Café in St Augustine

Tucked away in the charming streets of St Augustine, The Blue Hen Café is a delightful gem that truly makes lunchtime a special occasion. As I entered, I was greeted by the friendly and attentive staff, instantly making me feel at home. Though there was a slight wait—well worth it, I would say—the anticipation only added to the charm of the experience.

Once seated, I couldn’t resist trying their tender chicken biscuits, which were nothing short of divine. Each bite was a harmony of flavors, and I can confidently say they hold a special place on my palate! Paired with the amazing peach butter, this dish elevated my meal to new heights of deliciousness.

For those with a sweet tooth, the fluffy pumpkin pancakes demanded an encore! They were a festive feast for the senses, perfectly cooked and drizzled with just the right amount of syrup.

Overall, The Blue Hen Café garnered my recommendation as a must-visit for anyone in search of a memorable lunch. If you find yourself in St Augustine, make sure to stop by—your taste buds will thank you!

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The Floridian Restaurant

Highlights
Excellent Salad Combinations
Friendly and Attentive Service
Charming Patio Dining
Flavorful Dressings
Hearty Shrimp Po Boy

The Floridian Restaurant in St Augustine is a delightful gem that expertly balances flavor and atmosphere. As I settled down in the charming patio, surrounded by lush greenery, I felt instantly relaxed, ready to dive into their lunch offerings. The excellent salad combinations caught my eye, and I quickly opted for their signature salad topped with flavorful dressings that danced across my palate. Each bite was a refreshing explosion of taste that made my taste buds sing.

The service was nothing short of exceptional; the staff was friendly and attentive, enhancing my dining experience without being intrusive. But let's not forget the highlight of my meal: the hearty Shrimp Po Boy. This sandwich was a perfect blend of crispy shrimp and homemade goodness nestled in a soft, toasted bread that made each crunch and bite feel like a delightful surprise.

If you're looking for a lunch that tantalizes your taste buds and uplifts your spirits, The Floridian is a must-visit. With a delightful ambiance, tantalizing food, and service that's as warm as the Florida sun, it's clear why this restaurant stands out in St Augustine.

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Columbia Restaurant

Highlights
Fantastic service and staff
Delicious and flavorful food
Warm and welcoming atmosphere
Highly recommended dining
Great for family visits

Columbia Restaurant is a true gem nestled in the heart of St. Augustine. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with fantastic service that instantly made me feel at home. The staff, with their warm smiles and genuine hospitality, set the tone for what I anticipated would be a delightful dining experience.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the delicious and flavorful food options available. I opted for their famous 1905 Salad, a dish that lives up to its reputation—crisp, refreshing, and dressed to perfection. The authentic Cuban sandwich I tried next was nothing short of a flavor explosion! Each bite showcased the rich history and culture of Cuban cuisine, and let me assure you, it did not disappoint.

The atmosphere was simply enchanting, making it an ideal spot for family visits or a cozy lunch for two. I can see why Columbia Restaurant comes highly recommended; it unites quality dining with a touch of tradition that leaves you longing for more. If you're looking to elevate your lunch game in St. Augustine, don’t miss this culinary masterpiece!

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River & Fort Restaurant & Roof Top Lounge

Highlights
Stunning waterfront views
Excellent service and ambiance
Delicious steak and seafood
Perfect for special occasions
Tasty appetizers recommended

Exploring the culinary bliss of St. Augustine led me to the enchanting River & Fort Restaurant & Roof Top Lounge, where every meal feels like an occasion. As I stepped into the restaurant, I was immediately captivated by the stunning waterfront views that set the perfect backdrop for a delightful lunch. The ambiance was sophisticated yet inviting, and the service was impeccable; I felt like a valued guest from the moment I arrived.

For lunch, I opted for the mouthwatering steak, expertly cooked to my desired temperature and bursting with flavor. The accompanying seafood dish also caught my attention—fresh and seasoned to perfection, it was a plate that celebrated the coastal charm of St Augustine. I would be remiss not to mention the tasty appetizers that whetted my appetite; each bite was a symphony of flavors.

I found that River & Fort excels at making every dining experience special, making it a top contender for lunch in the area. With its breathtaking views, delicious offerings, and outstanding service, this restaurant is sure to leave an impression. If you’re seeking a delightful culinary escape, don’t miss out on this hidden gem!

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Cap's On the Water

Highlights
Beautiful sunset views
Friendly and efficient staff
Delicious seafood options
Casual atmosphere
Great for special occasions

Cap's On the Water has quickly become one of my favorite lunchtime spots in St Augustine! Nestled on the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway, this charming restaurant offers not only a delightful menu but also breathtaking sunset views that are sure to elevate any meal. As I settled into my seat, the warm, friendly staff greeted me with enthusiasm that set a positive tone for my visit.

The seafood offerings are truly the stars of Cap's culinary show. I couldn't resist trying their blackened mahi-mahi sandwich, which was perfectly seasoned and served on a fresh bun. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and I was pleasantly surprised by the generous portion. The casual atmosphere makes it a fantastic spot for a laid-back lunch, yet it’s also ideal for those special occasions when you want to impress.

As I sipped my refreshing drink, I realized that Cap's isn't just a meal; it's an experience. With efficient service, delicious food, and stunning views, it’s no wonder this place is popular with locals and visitors alike. I left with a happy heart and a satisfied palate, already planning my next visit!

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O'Steen's Restaurant

Highlights
Best shrimp in town
Delicious hush puppies
Fresh vegetable choices
Super yummy secret sauce
Great key lime dessert

O'Steen's Restaurant deserves a spotlight in any discussion about the best lunch spots in St. Augustine. As I stepped through its welcoming doors, the tantalizing aroma of fried shrimp greeted me—a culinary siren call I couldn’t resist. The best shrimp in town was as promised—golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor, it was a bite of coastal bliss.

Alongside my shrimp, I couldn’t help but indulge in their delicious hush puppies, which were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft within. These little orbs of joy complemented my meal beautifully. I also appreciated their fresh vegetable choices, adding a vibrant hue to my plate that felt both nourishing and appetizing.

What truly stood out, though, was the house’s super yummy secret sauce—a blend of flavors so delightful I found myself yearning for extra. And, of course, no meal is complete without a sweet ending; the great key lime dessert was the cherry on top of my gastronomical adventure, its tartness providing a refreshing contrast to my savory options.

O'Steen's Restaurant isn’t just a lunch spot; it's a flavorful experience that I’d recommend to anyone wandering through St. Augustine.

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Prohibition Kitchen

Stepping into Prohibition Kitchen felt like a delightful time warp! The ambiance, infused with a charming nod to the Roaring Twenties, set the stage for what would be a remarkable lunch. I savored their mouthwatering pulled pork tacos topped with tangy slaw—each bite was an adventure! The craft cocktails are equally worth the visit, perfectly complementing the lively mood. With friendly staff and a vibrant atmosphere, this spot stands out as a must-try. If you’re searching for a lunch that’s a little spicy and a lot of fun, Prohibition Kitchen is the place to be!

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Harry's Seafood, Bar & Grille

Harry's Seafood, Bar & Grille is a delightful oasis for lunch lovers in St. Augustine! As I stepped inside, the vibrant atmosphere instantly set the stage for a culinary adventure. I savored their famous Cajun shrimp and grits, where the spicy kick danced perfectly with creamy textures. The staff was both attentive and friendly, making me feel right at home. I also indulged in a refreshing key lime pie that was the perfect finale to my meal. If you're seeking a place that combines flavor and a lively ambiance, look no further—Harry's is a must-visit!

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Salt Life Food Shack

From the moment I stepped into Salt Life Food Shack, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped me like a warm ocean breeze. I indulged in their tantalizing fish tacos, bursting with flavor and topped with a zesty slaw that danced on my taste buds. The crisp calamari was perfectly fried, adding a delightful crunch to my meal. Pairing my lunch with a refreshing mango mojito made the experience even more enjoyable. The friendly staff and laid-back vibe create a perfect lunch spot for beach lovers. If you’re in St Augustine, this gem is a must-try for seafood aficionados!

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The Press

During my visit to The Press, I was instantly charmed by its inviting atmosphere. The sandwiches here are true culinary delights, with the standout being the “Pork Belly Banh Mi” — a delightful twist on a classic! Each bite bursts with flavor, perfectly complemented by their homemade pickles. The accompanying side of truffle fries was a glorious indulgence that I savored to the last crumb. The staff radiated warmth and professionalism, making the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re seeking a lunch spot that marries creativity and comfort, make sure to add The Press to your St Augustine itinerary!

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The Drunken Horse St. Augustine

Nestled in the heart of St. Augustine, The Drunken Horse captivated me with its lively atmosphere and mouthwatering menu. I indulged in their signature pulled pork sandwich, perfectly tender and bursting with flavor, served with a side of crispy sweet potato fries that were simply addictive. The staff was incredibly friendly, adding to the welcoming charm of the establishment. I also sipped on a refreshing house-made lemonade that elevated my meal to new heights. If you’re seeking a memorable lunch experience, I wholeheartedly recommend making a stop at this vibrant eatery—you won’t be disappointed!

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Ice Plant Bar

Stepping into Ice Plant Bar is like taking a delicious plunge into a vintage cocktail era. Their lunch menu effortlessly fuses classic American fare with a twist of Southern charm. I savored the fried green tomatoes, which were perfectly crispy and paired with a zesty remoulade that danced on my palate. The pork belly sandwich was a revelation—succulent, smoky, and served on house-made bread that could make anyone swoon! The ambiance, with its industrial décor and friendly staff, adds to the experience. If you're seeking a lunch spot that’s both tasty and vibrant, Ice Plant Bar should undoubtedly be on your list!

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