Located right along Florida’s northeastern coast, St. Augustine boasts a rich history and an even richer culinary tapestry, making it a must-visit destination for Southern food lovers. This charming city is a haven for those seeking authentic Southern cuisine, offering a delightful blend of historic ambiance and modern flavors.
Whether you’re here to vacation in one of our St. Augustine oceanfront rentals or visiting for a gourmet St. Augustine food tour, the culinary wonders waiting for you here are unparalleled. At Summerhouse Condos, we invite you to explore the many flavors of St. Augustine.
The Essence of Southern Cuisine
Southern cuisine is renowned for its comfort food, rich flavors, and the heartfelt tradition that goes into every dish. It’s rooted in history, drawing from a diverse blend of cultures, including African, Native American, and European influences. Southern cuisine is as much about technique and flavor as tradition and community, offering indulgent treats and healthier, vibrant dishes. St. Augustine elevates Southern cooking by infusing it with local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. From savory shrimp and grits to perfectly seasoned fried green tomatoes, the restaurants in St. Augustine showcase the best of what Southern cuisine has to offer, with each dish reflecting the unique tastes and heritage of the region.
Top Restaurants for Southern Cuisine in St. Augustine
St. Augustine is home to a variety of top-notch restaurants that honor Southern cooking while adding a creative twist. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual meal or a gourmet dinner, you’ll find spots that cater to your culinary cravings with dishes that are rich in flavor and tradition.
The Floridian Restaurant
The Floridian epitomizes what it means to be truly Southern yet forward-thinking when it comes to cuisine. The Floridian takes pride in crafting dishes that are both rooted in traditional Southern comfort foods and elevated through fresh, lighter, and creative approaches. They support local growers and producers, using the season’s finest ingredients to create a menu that changes continuously, ensuring every visit is a fresh experience. Their commitment to sustainability and regional inspiration means that diners can always enjoy the best of the season. The Floridian’s menu is known for featuring classic Southern favorites alongside inventive vegetarian options, making it a top St. Augustine restaurant. When dining here, keep an eye out for special farm, fish, and artisan partners who contribute to the outstanding dining experience.
Ned’s Southside Kitchen
Another gem in St. Augustine’s culinary scene is Ned’s Southside Kitchen, a restaurant that refuses to compromise on quality. By sourcing fresh ingredients from local farmers, fish houses, and food distributors, Ned’s ensures that you’re getting the best of the season, no matter the time of year. Their family-style meals and individual to-go options make it easy to savor their offerings wherever you are, whether dining in or taking out. Ned’s menu is a celebration of Southern comfort food, prepared with a meticulous focus on quality and flavor. Their takeout services allow you to enjoy their gourmet meals at home, ensuring a top-notch dining experience even when you can’t dine in person.
Gas Full Service Restaurant
At Gas Full Service Restaurant, every dish is made from scratch daily, using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. This dedication to high-quality, locally sourced foods shines through in every bite. Their menu celebrates classic comfort food but with an innovative twist that elevates traditional dishes to new culinary heights. Gas Full Service Restaurant aims to offer something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy classic Southern flavors or try something entirely new. Their commitment to using superior ingredients and creative techniques ensures that each meal is nothing short of spectacular.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to try these incredible St. Augustine southern cuisine for yourself? Browse our full inventory of condo rentals in St. Augustine to find the ideal accommodations for your stay!
Must-Try Dishes with Local Flair
Shrimp and Grits
A quintessential Southern dish, shrimp and grits have a storied history dating back to the Lowcountry coastal regions. Shrimp are sautéed in butter and combined with creamy, cheese-infused grits, seasoned to perfection with a blend of spices that bring out the rich, savory flavors. In St. Augustine, this dish is a highlight at many top restaurants, such as The Floridian, where you can taste the freshness of the shrimp and the richness of the grits in every bite.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Another Southern classic, fried green tomatoes, offers a delightful crunch and tanginess that is both unique and inviting. This dish, made from unripe tomatoes dredged in cornmeal and flour and then fried to a golden crisp, pairs well with a variety of dips and sauces. It’s a beloved appetizer that showcases the ingenuity of Southern cooking. Gas Full Service Restaurant and Ned’s Southside Kitchen both offer outstanding versions of this dish, bringing their own local flair to the table.
Biscuits and BBQ
No Southern culinary tour is complete without indulging in biscuits and BBQ. Biscuits, soft and flaky, are a staple of Southern cuisine, often served with butter, honey, or gravy. When paired with slow-cooked, smoky BBQ meats—such as pulled pork or brisket—the combination is simply heavenly. St. Augustine’s restaurants are known for their BBQ dishes, with many places like Ned’s Southside Kitchen offering mouth-watering versions that feature locally sourced meats and house-made sauces.
Book Your St Augustine Condo Rental with Summerhouse
To truly immerse yourself in the culinary delights of St. Augustine, you’ll want to stay close to the action. Booking a rental condo at Summerhouse ensures you have a comfortable home base from which to explore the top restaurants in the city. Our St. Augustine oceanfront rentals offer breathtaking views and easy access to both the beach and the best dining spots. Our condos in St Augustine, FL, provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making your stay as enjoyable as possible. From cozy, well-appointed interiors to fabulous rest amenities, our St. Augustine condo rentals are designed to provide a relaxing retreat. After a day of indulging in Southern cuisine, you can unwind in the tranquil surroundings of your beachfront condo.
St. Augustine’s culinary scene thrives on its rich heritage and the creativity of its chefs, ensuring that every dining experience is memorable. By choosing to stay at Summerhouse Condos, you’re not just booking a place to stay—you’re setting the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure. Come savor the flavors of St. Augustine, and let us be a part of your journey. Book your stay with Summerhouse Condos today and be one step closer to experiencing the best of the Ancient City!
