The best restaurants in St. Johns County

Fine dining meets St. Augustine soul at La Cocina at The Cellar Upstairs, set above San Sebastian Winery, where Chef Norberto Jaramillo plates Latin-rooted flavors like rack of lamb, filet mignon, and Chilean seabass, plus a five-course pairing menu.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 14, 2026

When you want a spot to catch the game and debate flats vs. drums with a basket in hand, Dick's Wings & Grill brings a race-car vibe, cold drinks, and an almost comical 365 varieties of wings alongside the classic pub fare locals actually crave.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 3, 2026

When you're craving a low-key, high-reward dinner, Sakada Japanese Steak House turns out fresh rolls like the Lobster Mango Roll and Saint Augustine Roll, plus trusty Chicken Teriyaki and Shrimp Tempura.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 12, 2026

Family-run and rooted in historic downtown, Nonnas Trattoria turns any weeknight into a feel-good feast with heartwarming Italian classics that just hit right. When you want simple, soulful plates without the fuss, consider their brunch or dinner and let the carb-happiness carry you home.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 4, 2026

When you want real-deal meat by the plate or by the pound, Woodpeckers Backyard BBQ keeps it simple with tender smoked classics and stacked sandwiches in a down-home setting with some outdoor tables. Meet a friend, linger a bit, and go home happily sauce-stained.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 25, 2026

When you want a grown-up night that still feels easy, 17 King nails it with elegant bites, craft cocktails, curated wines, and live music nightly. Think scallops over lemon risotto or a ribeye with peppercorn sauce, plus daytime Kings Table tastings when you feel like leveling up.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 3, 2026

Craving Southern flavors that feel fresh, not heavy? The Floridian Restaurant keeps it local with produce, seafood, and dairy from regional partners, turning classics into bright, creative plates with plenty of legit vegan options...

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 4, 2026

Whether you’re craving pristine sashimi, creative rolls, or a hibachi sizzle worth gathering around, Tank's Sushi Bistro(WGV) brings the show to World Golf Village with careful knife work, generous hibachi plates, and consistently fresh flavors that make midweek dinners feel celebratory.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 5, 2026

Tucked into the historic arts district, Forgotten Tonic serves modern riffs on American comfort food alongside handcrafted cocktails and an actually extensive wine list.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 6, 2026

When you want reliably fresh sushi without fuss, Sushi 99 （St Augustine） hits the spot with creative rolls like the Yummy Roll, bright yellowtail jalapeño, and classics from gyoza to beef tataki. They also do sashimi, poke, and fried rice, so everyone at home is happy.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 19, 2026

When the craving hits for comfort barbecue and a proper pour, Mojo BBQ delivers classic Southern plates with that blues-soaked vibe St. Augustine folks know. It’s the spot for legit "BBQ // Southern Cuisine // Whiskey" energy with craft cocktails and a good-natured atmosphere that feels local.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 5, 2026

Whether you’re feeding the crew or just yourself, Smokin' D's BBQ nails the comfort trifecta with slow-smoked meats by the pound, hefty sandwiches, and classic sides that taste like a Sunday nap. Let them handle dinner this week, you just bring the appetite and the group chat.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 9, 2026

Sunday is the local’s move when you want real-deal sourdough with your breakfast or lunch. , even a fried bologna stacked with pimento cheese and Datil Dijonnaise... then snag a loaf or cinnamon bun for later.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 8, 2026

Carmelo's Pizzeria nails the local pie craving with large, thin-and-crisp pizzas, veggie toppings piled high, legit calzones, and simple salads that do their job. Generous portions, fair prices, and house-made desserts make it a reliable weeknight go-to when you want leftovers tomorrow.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 11, 2026

Harvest & Reel does farm-fresh, shore-to-table right with a modern open kitchen, a menu that swings from Mayport shrimp chowder to pan-seared scallops, and a Rhum Bar pouring handcrafted cocktails from a deep rum collection. Ideal for locals who want oceanview vibes without leaving the island.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 18, 2026

Whether you’re in a biscuits-and-gravy mood or plotting a full-on Benedict mission, B&B's Brunch Bar delivers the good stuff with house-made hollandaise, Bubba’s Shrimp & Grits crowned in habanero bacon jam, and a playful waffle flight. Friendly vibe, proper coffee, and a sneaky-good breakfast burrito with BB’s sauce.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 19, 2026

The Backyard at Meehan's is the tropical side of this local favorite, serving a Caribbean-style menu with cold pints and a warm welcome. When you want less shepherd’s pie and more sunshine, grab something grilled or seafood-y and linger like it’s your own patio.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 7, 2026

Elegant dining at the TPC Sawgrass clubhouse serving Continental/American fare, including breakfast.

Sometimes you just need straight-up great chicken tenders, and Huey Magoo's Chicken Tenders nails the craving with a simple, tender-centric menu that hits the spot fast. Perfect for an easy weeknight bite or a no-cook game-day spread, especially when you're not in the mood to overthink dinner.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 18, 2026

Ice Plant Bar nails the farm-to-table thing with grass-fed burgers, local seafood, vegetarian options, and daily specials inside the original 1927 Ice Plant building. Expect serious craft cocktails built with house-pressed juices, a wide range of bitters, and specially crafted syrups... a proper neighborhood go-to.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 3, 2026

Prohibition Kitchen keeps St. George Street lively with craft cocktails, generous plates, and live music every night, all wrapped in a 1920s vibe. Think the city's longest bar, reclaimed-wood charm, and menu standouts like the Maine Lobster Roll, PK Poutine, and a cheeky Hot Fudge Brownie Milkshake.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 17, 2026

Sarbez pairs craft beer with gourmet grilled cheeses in a funky hangout stocked with 35+ arcade games from pinball to skeeball. Expect frequent live music and the kind of quirky, good-vibes energy that makes weeknights feel like a tiny victory lap.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 13, 2026

The Press nails the neighborhood gastropub vibe with scratch-made comfort plates, fresh-baked bread, and an actually interesting craft beer list. Their award-winning burgers are the move, but the menu swings wider with seafood, pizzas, and sandwiches, plus the occasional trivia or live music to keep things lively.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 27, 2026

Rustica is a modern, casual fine-dining spot in St. Augustine that leans into Florida’s seasonal bounty, weaving in smart influences from Japan, China, and India. Go when you’re craving thoughtful plates, a relaxed vibe, and zero culinary boredom.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 24, 2026

Green Papaya is that informal, modern mainstay locals lean on when a mix of Thai and Japanese classics sounds just right. Flashy accents, a breezy patio, and reliable, no-fuss plates make it an easy weeknight go-to or a low-key catch-up spot with friends.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 16, 2026

Dick's Wings & Grill turns weeknights into easy wins with crispy, saucy wings and pub grub that hits the spot. Wingin' it since 1994 and voted Best Wings in St. Augustine for 2025, plus bingo and trivia vibes make it a fun nearby go-to.

From the Palm Coast newsletter, August 14, 2026

When dinner indecision strikes this week, Andaman Asian Bistro nails both sides of the menu with fragrant Thai curries and creative Japanese sushi that locals swear by. Think rich Massaman or Panang one night, then a Red Dragon, Pretty In Pink, or Interview With A Vampire roll the next...

From the St. Augustine newsletter, August 10, 2026

Skip the same old takeout and let Andaman Asian Cuisine handle dinner with exhibition kitchen energy, fresh ingredients, and Thai dishes that actually taste like Thailand. Fast, friendly vibes, easy online ordering, and flavors that pop make it a weeknight win for Palm Coast folks.

From the Palm Coast newsletter, August 12, 2026

Skip the sad desk salad and build a legit upgrade at Mr Farmer, where farm-inspired ingredients meet bright Asian flavors in loaded poke bowls and creamy milk teas. Think Ahi Tuna or Spicy Salmon, even a Miso-Seared Salmon Bowl, all fresh enough to power you through this week.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 8, 2026

When you want that crisp, foldable pie plus tender meatballs without leaving St. Augustine traffic, NYC Meatballs and Pizzeria nails the NYC-style vibe with pizzas, pastas, wings, and salads. Grab a table, pair it with beer, wine, or spirits, and call it a weeknight win.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 26, 2026

Long-standing barbecue restaurant chain specializing in meats smoked over oak, plus sides & salads.

From playful signatures like the Crazy Girl Roll, Sweet Heart Roll, and Zento Roll to Yellowtail Jalapeno, Dancing Scallop, Hamachi Kama, and cozy Seafood Udon or Steak Teriyaki, Sushi Zento & Grill nails both the fun stuff and the classics. Treat yourself this week, your chopsticks will get a workout.

From the Palm Coast newsletter, August 22, 2026

One Twenty Three Burger House keeps it simple and delicious with patties centered on quality meat, plus a full pizza lineup when the table can’t agree. Burgers come with natural cut fries or slaw, and it’s the kind of spot you’ll crave on a weeknight.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 10, 2026

Mikato Sushi keeps it fun for locals with teppanyaki chefs on the hibachi, a bar, and creative rolls like the Volcano, Yuzu Jalapeno, and the crowd-pleaser Sexy Girl, plus snackable starters like crispy scallion pancakes and Shanghai spring rolls, all right in the heart of St. Augustine.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 4, 2026

Fire and Smoke BBQ Company keeps local grills honest with rubs and the Old Town BBQ Sauce made from high quality ingredients with no fillers or preservatives. It’s a family outfit with a Food Truck and recipe ideas, so weeknight ribs suddenly feel easy.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 6, 2026

Smokin' D's BBQ does what locals want, slow-smoked plates and hearty sandwiches with the classic sides that taste like somebody actually stirred the pot. Rustic, compact quarters keep it simple, the focus stays on that deep, slow-smoked flavor... reliable comfort when you just want the good stuff.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 7, 2026

Little Miss Ha keeps it relaxed with familiar Vietnamese eats given a smart modern twist, the kind of spot you hit when weeknight cravings show up hungry. Settle in with bold flavors, a glass of wine or a well-made cocktail, or grab a cold beer and call it your new regular.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, August 31, 2026

Whether you’re after a glass that actually pairs with dinner or a low-key date night, The Drunken Horse St. Augustine pours a curated mix of French and international wines alongside French plates, flatbreads, and proper cheese and charcuterie, all with a cozy Parisian café vibe.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 7, 2026

Jack's BBQ and Brewery keeps it simple in the best way, with smoked meats, classic comfort sides, and happy hour specials that make a midweek catch-up feel like a win. It’s the kind of easygoing spot locals keep in their back pocket when dinner needs to be laid-back and satisfying.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 15, 2026

Trendy bar serving glasses of wine, small plates, cheese boards and tasting events.

Whether you’re craving a crispy, stone-fired pie or a hearty bowl of rigatoni alla vodka, Piesanos nails the comfort-food sweet spot locals rely on. Expect friendly, family-style vibes, old-school NY pizza touches like the Pizza Antico, plus solid pastas, wings, and crowd-pleasing catering.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 20, 2026

Treat yourself to modern Peruvian plates at Llama Restaurant, where Chef Marcel Vizcarra channels Lima with beautifully plated dishes and balanced, bright flavors. It’s the kind of intimate, thoughtful cooking that turns a random Tuesday into something you’ll think about all week.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 4, 2026

Saint is the kind of Italian spot you keep in your back pocket, focused on comforting flavors and unfussy plates that just hit right. Great for a laid-back date or midweek catch up when you want something reliably good without making a whole production.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 12, 2026

Craving a reliable spot for Spanish/Cuban comfort? Columbia Restaurant serves award-winning classics in the Historic District, backed by more than a century of tradition since 1905. Settle into rooms lined with hand-painted tiles, art, and a Spanish-style fountain, then turn dinner this week into a mini staycation.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 7, 2026

Harry's Seafood, Bar & Grille nails those Southern, Cajun and Creole cravings with NOLA classics like jambalaya, plus seasonal plates that actually taste like summer. Since 1987 they’ve poured unique cocktails from a full bar and closed the deal with butter pecan cheesecake… because self-control is optional.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 22, 2026

Circa-1950 fast-food chain for counter-serve burgers, some stacked with multiple patties.

Fancy Sushi keeps it casual and consistent with a deep lineup of sushi rolls, comforting ramen, poke bowls, tempura, and hibachi, all the greatest hits locals actually order on repeat. Save room for a fried Oreo if you like an unexpected sweet victory lap.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 14, 2026

Chef Barry Honan riffs on ramen at Lotus Noodle Bar, blending Japanese soul with French technique for bowls that change with the seasons. Think peak-ingredient broths, local harvests meeting rare Japanese imports, and a menu that actually evolves... the kind of spot you bookmark for weeknights and flex nights alike.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 8, 2026

When you want legit barbecue without overthinking it, Smoked. Southern BBQ keeps it simple with sauce-slathered ribs, dry-rubbed meats, and handy wraps and salads. Grab a cold beer or wine, sit outside, maybe finish with ice cream, then thank yourself for staying local.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 21, 2026

When the week calls for scratch-made comfort, Casa Benedetto's serves Grandma-approved plates like rice balls, manicotti, pasta fagioli, escarole and beans, plus linguini with clam sauce from freshly shucked clams. They’ll even tweak recipes to your needs, with gluten-free pasta and spiralized zucchini options.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, August 15, 2026

Matsukawa Sushi & Ramen Cuisine hits the sweet spot when you want fresh rolls, steamy ramen, and that hibachi sizzle without the fuss. Add comforting fried rice and a little sake, and you have a reliable neighborhood fix for weeknights, date nights, or craving-level emergencies.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, September 21, 2026

Casual cafe serving biscuit sandwiches & Southern sides for breakfast & lunch.

Ragga Surf Cafe keeps mornings easy with a scratch-made, surf-inspired menu and specialty coffee that tastes even better with those waterfront views. It’s the kind of local spot where a quick latte run turns into lingering with friends, swapping stories, and maybe ordering that extra treat you earned.

From the St. Augustine newsletter, October 2, 2026