Foodie’s Guide to Living in St. Augustine: Local Restaurants, Farmers Markets, and Hidden Spots

by Kevin Howard

When you think of St. Augustine, FL, the first images that come to mind are cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and ocean views that never get old. But for many who move here—or are considering it—dining is just as big a part of the lifestyle as the history and beaches. From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to creative farm-to-table menus and neighborhood spots locals keep close to the vest, St. Augustine offers a food scene that tells the story of the city’s culture. If you want to “taste the city” like a local, here’s your guide.

Must-Visit Restaurants Locals Love

While the historic district is filled with charming eateries that tourists flock to, those who call St. Augustine home often head to the neighborhood gems.

La Nouvelle Bistro: Located in a beautifully restored Victorian home, La Nouvelle serves French classics with a modern twist. Try the royale with cheese.
The Ice Plant: Part distillery, part restaurant, this is where craft cocktails meet locally sourced food. The atmosphere alone is worth the visit. My favorite dish is the chicken and hoe cakes!
Osprey Tacos: A laid-back spot known for creative tacos and fresh local ingredients. Osprey Tacos serves the best tacos in town! Grab a local beer or glass of wine from Old Coast Ales Brewery next door.
Collage Restaurant: A fine-dining hot spot tucked just off St. George Street. International flavors shine here, making it a go-to for date nights. Collage is one of my favorite restaurants in St. Augustine.
Llama Restaurant: Llama is a hidden gem offering Peruvian cuisine that highlights seafood and bold flavors with beautiful presentation—truly a standout in Northeast Florida. Another favorite of mine! I dream about the Mar Y Tierra (surf and turf pasta).

Insider tip: Ask locals, and you’ll often hear that these are the places they’d choose for a celebration, a date night, or a reliable weeknight indulgence. If you're going to Collage or Llama, make a reservation as far in advance as possible! They are very popular and reservations fill up quickly.

Best Farmers Markets in St. Augustine

Farmers markets are more than just places to buy produce—they’re community hubs that give a real taste of St. Augustine’s lifestyle.

St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market (Saturdays): This is the largest and most popular market, known for its blend of fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music. You can shop for local honey, grass-fed meats, and artisan bread while enjoying the atmosphere of the Amphitheatre grounds.
St. Augustine Beach Wednesday Market: Perfect for midweek shopping, this market brings together local farmers, bakers, and artists right by the ocean.
Lincolnville Farmers Market: Smaller but culturally rich, this market focuses on supporting small local farms and community vendors. It’s a great spot to find organic produce and specialty foods.

Each market has its own vibe, making it easy for locals to weave fresh, seasonal shopping into their weekly routines.

Hidden Neighborhood Gems

The food scene here is constantly evolving, thanks to talented restaurateurs and tucked-away spots that keep locals excited.

Bea’s Fine Foods and All Day Café: A true neighborhood gem that blends comfort with creativity. Known for its hearty breakfasts, fresh-baked goods, and welcoming vibe, Bea’s has quickly become a favorite among locals who want something authentic and unpretentious. It’s the kind of place where you’ll run into neighbors and always leave full and happy.
Crème de la Cocoa: A dessert café that feels like a secret—locals know it’s the place to go for innovative sweets and cakes. Owner Nils Rowland has even competed on Food Network’s Halloween Wars and is back again this season! Make sure to tune in to cheer him on. Halloween Wars airs Sundays at 9:00pm (ET) on Food Network.
Forgotten Tonic: A tucked-away bar and restaurant in downtown St. Augustine serving comfort food and hand-crafted cocktails. Tourists often walk right by, but locals know better.

For those moving here, these are the places that will make you feel instantly plugged into the city’s food culture.

Seasonal Seafood Specialties

One of the best parts of living in St. Augustine? Fresh seafood that changes with the seasons.

Blue Crab: A summer staple, often served steamed or in crab cakes at local fish camps.
Shrimp: Mayport shrimp, caught just up the coast, is famous for its sweet flavor and shows up in everything from shrimp boils to tacos.
Oysters: Cooler months bring oyster season, and St. Augustine shines with oyster roasts and raw bars. Local favorites include Salt Run oysters, harvested right here in town.

Whether you’re cooking at home from the farmers market or dining out at a waterfront restaurant, seafood is an integral part of the St. Augustine lifestyle.

Why Dining Defines the St. Augustine Lifestyle

Living in St. Augustine means embracing a lifestyle that blends history, community, and flavor. It’s not just about where you eat—it’s about the story each restaurant, market, and dish tells about the city. For newcomers, getting to know the local food scene is one of the best ways to feel at home fast.

If you’re considering moving to St. Augustine, know that you’re not just buying a home—you’re buying into a lifestyle where fresh seafood, farmers markets, and hidden gems are part of daily life.