Activities

Best Eats In Historic St. Augustine

St. Augustine is a special place with lots to offer. It’s an old city founded by the Spanish in 1565, and it has a beautiful waterfront area with a 400-year-old fort called Castillo San Marcos. You might even see people walking around dressed in clothes from colonial times, and sometimes, you’ll hear cannons firing during demonstrations.

 

Even though St. Augustine is the oldest city in the country, its restaurant scene could be more exciting. There are plenty of fresh and different foods to try.

 

You can taste real Spanish dishes like empanadas or have a fancy meal of tapas with wine. Chefs in St. Augustine also like to use fresh, local ingredients from Florida farms.

 

If you’re looking for something more casual or just a tasty snack while exploring the Old City, you’ll find local coffee shops, homemade chocolates, delicious icy treats, and hot waffles that will tempt you as you walk around.

 

USA Today has picked out ten places to eat and enjoy sweet treats during your visit to this beautiful and historic city.

 

The Hyppo

 

According to founder Stephen DiMare, the idea for gourmet ice pops came to him while he was flying back home to St. Augustine. He mentioned to the woman sitting next to him that he was thinking about opening a coffee shop. She suggested making gourmet Mexican-style popsicles called paletas, which can have anything from cucumbers to fresh pineapple to jalapeños in them.

 

The Hyppo offers fresh, homemade ice pops in many flavors, which are especially nice on a warm day in Florida but tasty anytime. Some popular flavors include Mexican Hot Chocolate (made with cocoa, cayenne, and cinnamon), Key Lime, and Elvis Presley (peanut butter, banana, and honey). Plus, all the ice pops are made with local ingredients. (904-217-7853)

 

Spanish Bakery

 

This small bakery is located in a courtyard right in the middle of one of St. Augustine’s oldest streets, St. George Street. They serve delicious and affordable Spanish snacks. They’re only open for lunch and have a simple menu with things like savory empanadas filled with beef for $4, smoked sausage wrapped in biscuit dough for $4, and homemade chicken soup. For sweets, they have big cinnamon rolls and scones for $2. There’s no formal seating, but you can sit at a picnic table under a shady tree or take your snack with you as you explore the historic area.

 

Cafe Alcazar

 

This place has been a part of St. Augustine since 1888 and has a lot of history. It used to be called The Hotel Alcazar and had a casino and the world’s biggest indoor swimming pool. Many kings and presidents secretly visited here. Now, the deep end of the old swimming pool is a cafe that’s open for lunch every day. They serve dishes like escargot, curried chicken salad sandwiches, shrimp Giovanni, and the famous Florida dessert, key lime pie. Most dishes cost between $8 and $15. While you eat, you can look up at the fancy balconies where people used to watch the swimmers. Now, you’re sitting in the same spot enjoying your lunch. You can call them at (904) 825-9948.

 

Ice Plant

 

This awesome distillery makes really good craft spirits right here. It’s also a great restaurant with a cool, old-fashioned hipster feel. You can come here for lunch and try the Old City Melt sandwich with lots of cheese, tomato, and caramelized onion on multigrain bread for $9 or the meatloaf sandwich for $13. They also have snacks like smoked fish dip and bacon-wrapped dates to go with your craft cocktail. For dinner, prices range from $14 for a burger to $28 for scallops with handmade pasta. And remember to try a cocktail made with their special New World Gin or Distillery Vodka. You can stay late because the bar is open until 2 a.m. You can call them at (904) 829-6553.

 

The Floridian

 

The Floridian is owned and run by a husband-and-wife team, Jeff McNally and Genie Kepner. They use local ingredients and embrace Florida’s Southern food traditions but with a lighter and fresher twist. For example, they serve grit cakes, which are fried polenta topped with seasonal salsa, for $8. Their Shrimp and Sausage Pilau costs $16 and is made with local shrimp cooked with onions, peppers, and a spicy Datil-tomato and sausage sauce. Datil is a native pepper from St. Augustine.

 

The Floridian also offers many vegetarian and vegan options, like ‘n Grits, which can be ordered with shrimp or tofu for $14. Their seasonal Florida Sunshine salad includes strawberries, sweet potatoes, and candied pecans, and you can add tempeh for $13. They even have gluten-free options available. You can call them at (904) 829-0655.

 

Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille

 

Harry’s is in one of the oldest houses by the bay in St. Augustine. They serve tasty dishes from New Orleans like crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, burgers, po’boy sandwiches, and salads. The dining room is cozy and festive, but a lot of people prefer sitting outside on the patio, which is decorated with pretty white lights and overlooks the bay. Harry’s is known for being family-friendly, with a special menu for kids and Mardi Gras beads for them to play with. They also have New Orleans-style drinks like Hurricanes and Bayou Bloody Marys. You can enjoy live music in the courtyard almost every night. You can call them at (904) 824-7765.

 

Michael’s Tasting Room

 

Michael’s Tasting Room is a perfect match for St. Augustine, a city with a lot of Spanish influence. They serve food inspired by the Mediterranean region and traditional Spanish dishes. Along with a variety of tapas and main courses, they have a big selection of wines that have won awards. They always focus on using seasonal and high-quality meats and seafood, and they make sure everything looks beautiful when it’s served. You can pair your meal with one of over 70 different Spanish wines, and they even offer tasting flights with several wines to try. Plus, they have live Spanish music to create a romantic atmosphere for a special dinner or celebration. You can reach them at (904) 810-2400.

 

Cafe 11

 

If you’re staying on the beachside of St. Augustine and feeling hungry in the morning, this is the place to go for a big breakfast or brunch. You can get lots of bacon and home fries along with fresh egg sandwiches or scrambles with cheese and veggies. They also serve sandwiches salads, and have beer on tap until 9 p.m. Sometimes, they have live music in the evening. The outside of the restaurant looks like a regular strip mall, but inside, you’ll see local people enjoying healthy dishes like acai bowls or huevos rancheros. In the early evening, you can come for a glass of beer or wine and plan your night out.

 

95 Cordova

 

The 95 Cordova Restaurant is a fancy place located on the first floor of the beautiful Casa Monica Hotel. Inside, you’ll find elegant Moroccan decorations, a great selection of wine, and a mix of different types of food from around the world. People love coming here for romantic dates, business dinners, and other special occasions.

 

Chef Aaron Chavarria prepares a delicious tasting menu and the full course menu changes with the seasons. Dinner prices range from $23 to $32, which is typical for a fancy hotel restaurant. If you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy the nice atmosphere and tasty food, you can come for lunch or dinner.

 

For breakfast, you can try the Orange Maple Marmalade French Toast for $11, and in the afternoon, you can have a stone oven-baked pizza with prosciutto (thinly sliced ham), mozzarella, and fresh arugula for $12. You can call them at (904) 810-6810.

 

Catch 27

 

Catch 27 is one of the most talked-about seafood restaurants in historic St. Augustine, and for good reason. They’re known for serving fresh seafood caught locally in Florida waters, along with seasonal ingredients and local produce, which makes their menu really special. The atmosphere is stylish and modern but still relaxed.

 

For lunch, you can try the seared blue crab cake sandwich or shrimp tacos, both priced at $12. If you’re not into seafood, you can choose from options like the Cuban sandwich or the lemon chicken sandwich. They also have special entrees like the Rustic Fish for $20, which is the catch of the day served simply with salt, pepper, and lemon garlic butter, or the delicious shrimp and grits for the same price. You can call them at (904) 217-8190.

 

Llama Restaurant

 

If you want to treat yourself to a fancy meal in St. Augustine, go to Llama Restaurant. It’s a high-end dining place that serves really delicious Peruvian food. The food not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful when it’s served. You should try the ceviche lima with Peruvian giant corn and glazed sweet potatoes, the octopus carpaccio with Alfonso olives aioli, and the Arroz con mariscos, which is a creamy risotto with fresh herbs.

 

Cedar House Inn

 

Cedar House Inn is a beloved bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of St. Augustine. With a spirit of optimism and devotion, the innkeepers embarked on their journey with rose-colored glasses and unwavering dedication to their labor of love.

 

Over the years, the inn has welcomed countless guests, each one a culinary explorer eager to indulge in new flavors and experiences. Inspired by their guests’ enthusiasm and support, the innkeepers decided to embark on a new venture: creating a Cedar House Inn cookbook.

 

Despite lacking professional culinary skills, the innkeepers were motivated by the bravery and loyalty of their guests to give it their best shot. In their world, cooking is a blend of talent, enthusiasm, and a sprinkle of luck. They poured their hearts into the cookbook, hoping to capture the essence of their hospitality and the flavors of their kitchen.

 

Now, with the Cedar House Inn cookbook in hand, guests can recreate the magic of their stay at home, savoring the same delicious dishes and warm memories. It’s a testament to the bonds forged between hosts and guests and a celebration of shared experiences and culinary delights.

 

With love and appreciation, the innkeepers invite you to enjoy their efforts and embark on your culinary adventure through the pages of their cookbooks.

 

Contact Us

Cedar House Inn  79 Cedar Street  Saint Augustine, FL 32084  1 (904) 829-0079

info@CedarHouseInn.com

https://www.cedarhouseinn.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Places to Celebrate Christmas in St. Augustine

Introduction

 

When it comes to holiday getaways, St. Augustine in Florida might not be your first thought. But trust me, it’s a must for your Christmas plans! This town goes all out with millions of twinkling lights, tree ceremonies, boat rides, and dazzling shows, making it the ultimate spot in Florida for Christmas.

Moreover, NatGeo even ranked it in the top 10 places worldwide for Christmas lights, and CNTraveler recently featured it, too (yay for my hometown!). With so much to do, here are the top things you can’t miss during a St. Augustine Christmas!

 

Nights of Lights Grand Illumination

 

From around mid-November until early February, St. Augustine gets decked out in MILLIONS (yes, millions!) of cozy, twinkling Christmas lights. The whole downtown area becomes this magical winter scene that goes on for blocks. Furthermore, the Nights of Lights start with the Grand Illumination, a big celebration with live music, entertainers, and tons of fun! For the best experience, head to Cathedral Plaza to enjoy it all!

 

St. Augustine’s Christmas Parade

 

Families love the St. Augustine Christmas Parade! It’s packed with floats, performers, horseback riders, dancers, and guess who? Santa, of course! It’s also a fantastic morning event for families and friends who want to join in with the local community.

Additionally, the parade goes along the Bayfront and through the Plaza. It usually kicks off around 9 AM, but if you’re driving in, give yourself LOTS of time to find parking. It’s even better if you can walk or take an Uber from your hotel instead of driving.

 

Surf Illumination

 

In St. Augustine, a special part of their white Christmas involves the sandy beach! At St. Augustine Beach, you’ll find bright lights decorating the Pier and holiday-shaped lights along A1A.

In addition, the Pier is where the beach’s lights shine, with colorful palm trees, a Christmas tree, and tons of fun activities like a Holiday market, live music, and more!

 

Schooner Freedom Sails

 

One of the coolest ways to see St. Augustine’s Christmas lights is by hopping on the Schooner Freedom for a sail. They offer free drinks, warm mulled wine, hot chocolate, cozy blankets, Christmas treats, and lights twinkling all over the boat. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the lights from the water. Make sure to book ahead because these sails fill up fast! You can find more info here!

 

Christmas Lights on the Bayfront

 

My top spot for enjoying St. Augustine’s Christmas lights is along the Bayfront! You can see them from the water, and the businesses there go all out with their decorations. Moreover, Tini Martini is a local favorite spot to soak in the festive lights, and it’s one of my personal top Christmas places in St. Augustine!

 

Lighthouse Illumination

 

I always loved going to the Lighthouse Illumination when I was a kid. It’s magical, with lots of Christmas trees all lit up, pretty lights along the paths, tasty hot chocolate and cider, Santa visiting, and singers performing holiday songs. It also feels like the beginning of a wonderful Christmas movie, minus the cheesy plot. Furthermore, this event is a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas in St. Augustine!

 

The Red Light

 

Look out for a special red bulb hidden around town! It’s like a fun treasure hunt that everyone enjoys, and I just found it for the first time this year! The bulb could be hiding anywhere, so keep a close eye out if you want to spot it!

 

Tini Martini: The most lights to see at a bar for Christmas in St. Augustine

 

Tini Martini Bar leads the way with lots of twinkling lights along the Bayfront. It’s a local hotspot that’s popular all year round, so make sure to add it to your must-visit spots during your Christmas trip to St. Augustine and even when you’re vacationing in Florida!

During Nights of Lights, this bar glows with more lights than you can imagine, and their cocktails are just as fantastic as the bright decorations! Therefore, try their pomegranate martini for a delicious and festive red drink. One order is so generous that it fills about two and a half martini glasses, as they serve you the entire shaker! Locals and visitors both love this spot for its beautiful Bayfront views, great drinks, and dazzling Christmas lights in St. Augustine!

 

Holly Jolly Shopping Spree

 

Experience a delightful way to support local businesses in St. Augustine while enjoying festive deals and treats during the Holly Jolly Trolley event. Join in the morning fun by hopping on one of the Trolley Trains. After checking in, grab a free Christmas cocktail and embark on a ride to uptown St. Augustine. Once there, explore the shops, each offering special discounts, yummy snacks, cocktails, hot chocolate, and brunch! The proceeds go to a local charity, making it a heartwarming way to give back. Whether you’re checking off your Christmas shopping list or simply soaking up the holiday vibes, the Holly Jolly Trolley is a must-try experience!

 

Cathedral Plaza

 

One of the most famous spots in town is the Cathedral Plaza, where the old Oak trees are all lit up with dazzling lights. Although officially called the Plaza de la Constitucion, locals like us often just call it the Cathedral Plaza. When you stroll through, you’ll see decorated gazebos and wreaths on the light poles.

Additionally, this is where you’ll find St. Augustine’s special Grand Christmas tree! It might not be huge, but it’s one of the few places in town with colorful lights. Don’t miss the Plaza! Keep an eye out for exciting events happening here during the Christmas season—it’s also a fantastic spot to kick off the festive cheer with the Grand Illumination!

 

St. Augustine’s Regatta of Lights

 

For folks who love boats and the Floridian Christmas vibe, the Regatta of Lights is a must-see! It’s a boat parade where different boats from the area join in and compete in fun categories.

Moreover, these boats are all lit up and decked out in themes as they cruise along the Bayfront near the Bridge of Lions. Also, keep a lookout—you might even spot Santa sailing by!

 

Light Up!

 

A fresh spot to enjoy Christmas lights in St. Augustine is on West King Street! For the first time, this area just outside the Historic District is all aglow with over 3,000 sparkling lights. Live music and a dozen businesses are shining bright for the holidays, making it a must-see new event in St. Augustine!

 

The Nutcracker

 

One of the things I love during the holidays is watching The Nutcracker! It’s a ballet about a Christmas party where Clara gets a special Nutcracker from her magician uncle and then falls into a magical sleep. The music is amazing, and in St. Augustine, you can see different performances by local ballet schools. I also recommend checking out The St. Augustine Dance Conservatory’s show—it’s the same school I danced with for years!

 

Prestigious Restaurants

 

Lastly, don’t forget about the outstanding Christmas restaurants in St. Augustine! If you ever get the chance to experience Christmas in St. Augustine, make sure to check out to stay in our prestigious restaurants that are situated in the heart of Florida. They have a completely Christmas-themed cocktail menu, tasty recipes, and more Christmas decorations than you can imagine.

 

Visiting Cedar House Inn, Casa De Solana, and Victorian House Inn during this time of year is a must—it’s the most Christmassy restaurant in St. Augustine.

 

Don’t forget to try the hot drink; it’s perfect for warming up during a chilly Nights of Lights stroll!

 

Contact us for more details.

 

Cedar House Inn

 

Call US: +1(904)829-0079

St. Augustine, Florida

Best Places to Celebrate New Year in St. Augustine

Introduction

 

As the New Year approaches, St. Augustine beckons with its rich historical charm, offering a unique backdrop to ring in the new beginnings amidst centuries-old architecture and stories of the past.

 

Here’s a guide to the best historic places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in St. Augustine and we will also suggest the best staying place that is very near to these spots. Moreover, you can also enjoy Romantic Bed and Breakfast here:

 

Nights of Lights

 

First, look at all the lights – there are millions of them! Nights of Lights is a super bright and beautiful show during the holidays and a special way to start the New Year. The best part? You can also see this amazing light display for free. Begin your walk at the holiday tree in the Plaza de la Constitucion.

Moreover, walk along King Street, and you’ll see the Lightner Museum and Flagler College all lit up, from the ground to the palm trees and the rooftops. Also, take a stroll along the bayfront from the Bridge of Lions to the Castillo de San Marcos, and you’ll see the lights reflecting in the water of the Matanzas Bay. However, everywhere you look is a perfect spot for a New Year’s selfie!

 

Light up the Night! Beach Fireworks

 

Get ready for a fantastic show! Fireworks over the water in St. Augustine is a tradition that everyone loves. Grab a blanket and join thousands of people for “Light up the Night!” It’s also an incredible fireworks display at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier. Furthermore, you can catch a shuttle from Anastasia Baptist Church to the three viewing spots on the beach.

Additionally, there’s parking at City Hall, Ron Parker Park, Anastasia Square parking lot near Pope Road, and at the YMCA after 1 p.m. And guess what? It won’t cost you a thing!

Party at the Embassy Suites

 

They’re making things extra special at the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort. This time, it’s a Winter Wonderland party!

In addition, they’ve got an open bar, delicious food, live music, dancing, and fireworks at the pier.  The tickets cost $200 each, and it’s for grown-ups 21 and older.

 

Over the Top at the Circus

 

The circus is back in St. Augustine with the Venardos Circus at the AMP! It’s a fantastic show with amazing circus acts for everyone in the family. Created by Kevin Venardos, a former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster, it’s like a Broadway musical with circus acts.

 

Font Bay

 

Travel back in time to this old fort! On New Year’s Eve, they usually have cool tours, live music, and beautiful views of the bay. You can cheer for the New Year while inside the strong walls that have been here for ages.

 

St. George Street:

 

Join the excitement on this famous stone street. As midnight gets closer, the street fills up with music, dancing, and local celebrations. Enjoy the old-time feeling with live shows and lots of fun!

 

If you’re strolling on St. George Street, you’ll hear music around. Go to the Colonial Oak Music Park to watch a live show by the Dewey Via Band. It also won’t cost you anything to get in, and there’s food and drinks to enjoy.

 

Live Music in the Air

 

If you’re taking a stroll along St. George Street, you’ll probably hear some music around. Stop by the Colonial Oak Music Park to enjoy a live show by the Dewey Via Band. It’s free to get in, and you can also grab some food and drinks while you’re there.

 

A Classic Evening

 

Like classical stuff? First Coast Opera is putting on “La Bohème,” a timeless and passionate masterpiece by Puccini. Get ready for a ride of emotions, from laughing to crying, as Puccini’s beautiful music takes you on a deep journey of love and loss.

 

Set Sail with Black Raven

 

The Black Raven is a local pirate ship known for its unique tours. To kick off the year 2020, they’re throwing a New Year’s Eve party of “Piratical Proportions.” The event is for adults only, so if you’re under 21, you’ll have to “walk the plank.”

However, the Black Raven sets sail from the downtown dock at 10:00 pm sharp, located at 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084, cruising along the Matanzas River.

 

Moreover, once on board, you can enjoy interactive and live entertainment, catch views of famous St. Augustine landmarks, participate in contests with prizes, savor delicious party food, and receive complimentary party gear that will add excitement to the celebration. Moreover, it’s well known that other boats on the Matanzas River often light up the sky with fireworks, providing a spectacular view from the Black Raven. And, of course, just before midnight, champagne bottles are popped in anticipation of a New Year’s toast!

 

ROMANTIC Bed and Breakfast FOR TWO

 

If you want a tasty start to New Year’s Eve in St. Augustine, check out the city’s amazing food spots. Book a romantic Bed and Breakfast at Cedar House Inn with special New Year’s menus. Ice Plant Bar offers cocktails and a set menu, plus a fun balloon drop at midnight!

 

Moreover, you can also stay here. With us, you can enhance your enjoyment with a romantic Bed and Breakfast.  

 

No matter where you go, you’re in for a treat!

 

Contact us for more details.

 

Cedar House Inn:  79 Cedar Street, Saint Augustine, FL 32084

 

Call us: +1 (904) 829-0079  info@CedarHouseInn.com

Air Tour Of St. Augustine

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I love it when guests come to the Inn with a new idea for appreciating the Ancient City! Jason & Jessica recently sent me photos of their St. Augustine-By-Air tour with St. Augustine Bi-Planes. They got airborne with expert pilot Dave in his fully restored 1935 Custom Cabin Waco Bi-Plane! An incredibly exciting way to spend a Sunday afternoon!
The plane seats up to 4 passengers, so you can bring along a loved one, a pal, or bring the kiddos! The Waco is a true time machine and this is the world’s only company offering rides in a Custom Cabin Waco Biplane. If you love St. Augustine from the ground you will appreciate it even more from the air. Where else can you fly in a true piece of aviation history over one of the most historic places in the USA!