There’s something nostalgic about sipping a good drink at a speakeasy. The low lighting, the classic cocktails, and the hidden location create an air of mystery and excitement. While not a secret, the Ice Plant Bar in St. Augustine, Florida, captures the essence of a classic speakeasy with its carefully crafted cocktails and prohibition-era atmosphere.
With old-school drinks and quality food, the Ice Plant Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking to step back in time. This guide will give you a small preview of what to expect when you visit the Ice Plant Bar.
History of the Ice Plant Bar
As its name suggests, the Ice Plant Bar is housed in a historical ice plant that dates back to 1927. Originally designed for block ice production to preserve perishables, the structure has been carefully restored to maintain its now trendy industrial aesthetic. The transformation of the old ice building into a bar in 2013 was inspired by the pre-prohibition era of cocktail craftsmanship that focused on quality ingredients and old-school methods.
Today, the vintage vibe offers thirsty patrons artisanal cocktails and farm-to-table cuisine. To pay homage to its roots, the Ice Plant Bar offers at least three different types of ice cubes every day from a 300 lb block of ice.
What to Expect at the Ice Plant
During the day, the Ice Plant can be “okay” for families with older kids. The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients, and some items like fries, sliders, and fried chicken may appeal to middle school and older children.
However, as the sun sets, the ambiance transitions to a more adult scene, shifting the focus to its exceptional cocktail creations. This is when the expert mixologists truly shine, crafting beverages that capture the imagination.
Due to the intimate space and focus on alcoholic beverages, the Ice Plant Bar is best enjoyed by grown-ups. On the other hand, four-legged fur children are allowed exclusively on the Ice Plant patio.
Menu Highlights
The Ice Plant offers an exquisite culinary journey with its thoughtfully curated menu. Whether you’re a cocktail lover or a foodie, there are all kinds of options for every palette. Below are some highlights from their cocktails and food menus, to which we know you’ll respond well.
Craft Cocktails
At the Ice Plant Bar, cocktails are more than just drinks — they’re an art form. Each cocktail is a testament to the creativity and expertise that define the bar’s vision.
Saltburn: This refreshing cocktail features a blend of tequila, charanda, watermelon, basil, jalapeno, cucumber, and lime.
Rhapsody by Blue: Thyme gin, blueberry, pineapple gum, lemon, and angostura make up some concoction.
Garden in the Sky: Sip on a special mix of pisco, nirogi sake, jasmine, green tea, vanilla, coconut cream, and lime.
Of course, the bar offers staple prohibition-era drinks like Old Fashioneds and Gin + Tonics. Additionally, the Ice Plant offers guests a couple of mocktail options, beer, and wine.
Food Highlights
In addition to the drinks, the culinary offerings at the Ice Plant Bar celebrate farm-to-table freshness with every bite. The menu complements the bar’s drink selection, so your taste buds never miss a beat.
Brunch
Half-Pound Ice Burger: Enjoy freshly ground beef brisket with short rib, Munster cheese, aioli, and pickled green tomato.
Pan Con Lechon: Try a delicious Cuban roast port with sweet plantains, sweet and spicy pickled peppers, chicarrón, Cuban bread, and Moji aioli.
PB&J Dutch Baby Pancake: Tickle your taste buds over pancakes made from carmelized banana, brown butter, peanut butter whip, crushed peanut brittle macerated strawberry, and Meyer lemon syrup.
Lunch
Grilled Octopus and Chorizo Tacos: Complete with salsa verde, cilantro, grilled pineapple, and fried sweet plantains. The local seafood dishes never disappoint!
Local Shrimp Aguachile: Alongside watermelon, cucumber, corn, serrano chili pepper, cilantro, and crispy corn tortillas.
Bahn MI Sliders: Essentially little fish burgers, these sliders are a perfect mix of grilled lemongrass sausage, pickled daikon and carrot slaw, gochujang aioli, and a house-made brioche.
Dinner
Charred Spanish Octopus: Completed by sweet corn puree, herb-marinated potatoes, sliced green chilis, and chorizo-smoked paprika chimichurri
Pan-Seared Local Fish: Served with curried summer squash and potato puree, fried cauliflower, spiced raisins, marcona almonds, and mint raita.
Ginger-Soy Braised Rib: Enjoy with sesame-sticky rice, grilled watermelon, nước chấm, bok choy and chili crunch.
Things to Do Around the Ice Bar, St. Augustine
There’s no shortage of things to experience near the restaurant. Whether you’re looking to get your fill of history, a taste of local culture, or the chance to relax, the St. Augustine area has something for everyone:
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Explore this iconic lighthouse and learn about the region’s important maritime history.
Castillo de San Marcos: Visit the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: Discover a fascinating array of reptiles and exotic birds at this one-of-a-kind zoo.
St. Augustine Distillery: Enjoy guided tours and tastings of handcrafted spirits at this local distillery, which is also housed in the same historic ice plant.
Anastasia State Park: Relax on the beaches, hike a nature trail, or participate in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding at this beautiful state park.
FAQ
Are children allowed at the Ice Plant?
Technically, children are allowed at the Ice Plant. However, due to its intimate atmosphere and focus on cocktails, bringing children in the evening isn’t recommended. Families are best served during brunch and lunch hours.
Is there parking at the Ice Plant?
Yes. There are a limited number of parking spaces onsite.
Does the Ice Plant Bar serve food?
Yes. The Ice Plant Bar offers impressive farm-to-table brunch, lunch, and dinner menus.
Key Takeaways
With its unique menu and homage to its industrial roots, the Ice Plant, St. Augustine, provides a perfect blend of delectable dishes and a cozy ambiance. After filling your belly with food and drink, taste the seemingly endless activities in the surrounding area. From the St. Augustine Lighthouse to the exotic encounters at the Alligator Farm, many activities are vying for your attention.
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