Columbia Restaurant of St. Augustine

Columbia Restaurant of St. Augustine is a Spanish-Cuban restaurant in St. Augustine, FL, serving family recipes passed down through five generations since 1905. Known as Florida’s oldest restaurant, it offers a curated menu of traditional Spanish and Cuban dishes, including signature items like Cuban sandwiches, paella, and ropa vieja, all prepared with time-honored methods. The restaurant is celebrated for its extensive Spanish wine collection and hosts live Flamenco performances, enhancing its cultural experience. It serves guests across St. Augustine and surrounding areas, with a strong reputation reflected in its 4.40 rating from customers.

Rooted in the legacy of Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., a Spanish-Cuban immigrant who founded the original Columbia Saloon in 1903, the restaurant has grown into a family-owned institution spanning seven Florida locations. The current leadership includes fifth-generation members of the Hernandez/Gonzmart family, who continue to uphold the original vision of hospitality and tradition. Each location, including the St. Augustine site, reflects the unique character of its community while maintaining the core values of authenticity, quality, and service. The restaurant is also recognized as one of America's Most Historic Restaurants by USA Today, underscoring its enduring place in Florida’s cultural fabric.

Located on St George Street, the restaurant sits just a short walk from key historic and cultural landmarks. It is about 25 meters from Spanish Court, a public park, and within 50 meters of the Santoyo House and Marin-Hassett House, both designated historic buildings. The Colonial Quarter museum lies approximately 183 meters away, and Saint George’s Row shopping mall is nearby, placing the restaurant in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district.

Columbia Restaurant of St. Augustine stands out for its deep-rooted history, authentic cuisine, and commitment to family tradition, making it a cornerstone of the city’s dining scene. Its enduring legacy and consistent excellence have solidified its status as a beloved institution in St. Augustine, where heritage and hospitality remain at the heart of every meal.