Welcome to Delicious Destinations, FamilyVacationist’s monthly dining column from food and drink writer Megan duBois. Keep reading for the best family dining spots, top restaurants for solo travelers, and irresistible snack stops in popular destinations around the U.S.
In this month’s Delicious Destinations, we’re traveling to the nation’s oldest city. Yep, we’re going to St. Augustine, Florida! This tourist hotspot and historic treasure is known for its melting pot of different cuisines and award-winning chefs. Here are my top picks for the best places to eat in St. Augustine.
MORE CITY EATS: Read all the Delicious Destinations Columns
Best Restaurant for Breakfast in St. Augustine: Blue Hen Cafe
Just south of the iconic Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine is Blue Hen Cafe. The charming Southern restaurant is highly rated for its big country breakfasts with all of the Southern staples like biscuits, gravy, and of course, pimento cheese. Breakfast is only served until 11:00 a.m., so you’ll want to be sure to get in early before hitting the town to explore. And don’t forget to ask for a side of the restaurant’s famous peach butter to slather on all of your biscuits.
Blue Hen Cafe Must-Have: Southern Omelette
Best Family Restaurant in St. Augustine: Gas Full Service
Southern comfort food can also be found at Gas Full Service. The restaurant is a fan favorite for its decadent burgers that are often piled high with a load of crazy toppings like jalapeño poppers and fried green tomatoes. For something a little lighter, consider ordering the fresh catch of the day or the fantastic jerk chicken. No matter what you order here, it’s going to be good.
Gas Full Service Must-Have: Jalapeño Popper Burger
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Best Restaurants for Adults in St. Augustine: Llama Restaurant
Llama Restaurant is an experience like no other in St. Augustine. The well-reviewed restaurant specializes in upscale Peruvian cuisine with inventive dishes and spectacular presentations. The menu is filled with culinary delights like octopus carpaccio, a vegan ceviche made with mango, roasted lamb, and shrimp Peruvian corn chowder. The cocktail menu is just as inventive as the food menu with a Prosecco-laced Moscow mule and a purple corn and Champagne cocktail.
Llama Restaurant Must-Have: Shrimp and Peruvian Corn Chowder
Best Restaurant for Solo Travelers in St. Augustine: Burrito Works Taco Shop
One of the best spots to grab a bite to eat as a solo traveler in St. Augustine is Burrito Works Taco Shop. The little restaurant is just off the beach and often has a long line of surfers in the afternoon. The highly rated taco stand specializes in Baja-Mexican-style food with hearty burritos, tasty tacos, and tostadas. I always get my entrees served Baja style with cilantro, lime, onion, cabbage, Baja sauce, and salsa.
Burrito Works Taco Shop Must-Have: A Baja Style Green Chili Pork Burrito
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Best Spot for a Snack in St. Augustine: Cousteau’s Waffles and Milkshake Bar
Cousteau’s Waffles and Milkshake Bar is located in the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine and specializes in Belgian liege waffles and hand-spun milkshakes. Liege waffles are made with a special dough that’s more like bread dough than waffle batter and has big chunks of pearl sugar dotted throughout. Waffles at this local and visitor favorite spot start at an affordable $6 and go up to about $9. When choosing a waffle, guests at the restaurant can select from delightful combinations off the menu or create their own from a selection of toppings. My favorite is the Plimpton, which is topped with fresh blueberry compote, whipped cream, and local honey.
Cousteau’s Waffles and Milkshake Bar Must-Have: The Plimpton
Best St. Augustine Brewery: Dog Rose Brewing Company
Just a few blocks from the historic district of St. Augustine is Dog Rose Brewing Company. The brewery officially opened its doors in 2017 and has since become a favorite with locals. Along with a host of delicious beers, the brewery is known for its game tables that range from darts to shuffleboard.
Dog Rose Brewing Company Must-Have: Your favorite beer, Dog Rose Brewing Company style
