In the heart of St. Augustine, Florida, lies a hidden culinary gem. It captures the essence of both the local culture and the ocean’s bounty.
Welcome to St. Augustine Fish Camp, where history (and delicious food!) is served on every plate. This blog post will lead you through the restaurant’s backstory, some must-try menu items, and what to expect during your visit to the St. Augustine Fish Camp.
A Brief History of the St. Augustine Fish Camp
The restaurant was opened in 2020 by Ben and Liza Groshell. What began as a modest endeavor to bring fresh seafood to locals and visitors has grown into a beloved hometown establishment.
Ben and Liza’s goal was to create a restaurant that brought the freshest seafood possible to the community. They’ve since created a space that projects a neighborhood feel and offers spectacular views of the San Sebastian River.
From its rustic, welcoming façade to its warm, nautical-themed interior, every aspect of St. Augustine Fish Camp reflects its deep connection to the sea and community. Additionally, a meal at the St. Augustine Fish Camp sets you up perfectly for your adventures. It’s centrally located in the heart of town yet tucked away just enough to feel intimate.
There are even a growing number of Fish Camp locations throughout north Florida, including:
Ponte Vedra Beach
Jacksonville
Neptune Beach
St. Augustine Fish Camp Menu Highlights
At St. Augustine Fish Camp, both the lunch and dinner menus celebrate flavors that beautifully marry the freshest local ingredients with inventive culinary techniques. Whether you’re craving a light bite or a hearty meal, the array of options guarantees a great meal. Below are a few stand outs to consider from the St. Augustine Fish Camp menu:
Shrimp & Grits
A Southern classic elevated with perfectly seasoned shrimp, creamy grits, and a white-wine butter sauce.
Clam Chowder
A warm and comforting bowl of this creamy, rich chowder with clams sourced from the Atlantic Ocean.
Blue Crab Cakes
These succulent cakes are loaded with chunks of blue crab and served with a Caper Dill Aioli.
Broiled Seafood Platter
A delightful sampler platter of a variety of seafood broiled to perfection. It includes shrimp, scallops, cod, and seasonal vegetables.
Pan Fried Chicken or Blackened Catch Grits
If you’re not a fan of meals that swim, St. Augustine Fish Camp offers options such as flavorful pan-fried chicken or a blackened catch of the day served with creamy grits.
Fried Oyster Po’ Boy
A take on the popular Louisiana sandwich, this version features crispy fried oysters, coleslaw, and yummy fries.
Key Lime Pie
A tart and refreshing finish to your meal, this dessert is a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy.
What to Expect at St. Augustine Fish Camp
Let’s go over a few things to expect when dining at St. Augustine Fish Camp:
Casual atmosphere
The restaurant has a laid-back and inviting vibe. While at first glance the menu is elevated, the casual spot still caters well to families and groups of friends. Reservations for a table are recommended, but not required.
Fresh ingredients
The chefs prioritize using locally sourced seafood and produce to ensure the freshest flavors on your plate.
Excellent service
The staff is known to be friendly, knowledgeable about the superb menu, and always willing to make recommendations or answer any questions you may have.
Spectacular views
Located right on the water, the restaurant offers beautiful views of St. Augustine’s waterways. It’s a perfect spot to snap some sunset photos while dining.
Outdoor seating
Enjoy your meal in the open air on the restaurant’s outdoor patio.
Whether visiting for drinks or a fish-forward meal, St. Augustine Fish Camp is a must-try when in the historic city of St. Augustine. Plus, with its continually changing menu to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients, there’s always something new and delicious to try.
Things to Do Near St. Augustine Fish Camp
After enjoying a delicious meal at St. Augustine Fish Camp, you’ll find yourself perfectly situated to explore a variety of attractions. Here are some must-see spots to consider:
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: Explore this historic fortress from the 17th century. You’ll gain insight into the Spanish colonial presence in Florida with informative exhibits and views of the city’s waterfront.
St. George Street: Enjoy a stroll down this pedestrian-only street filled with unique shops, restaurants, and local art galleries. The historic street truly captures the charm of the Ancient City.
Flagler College: Take a tour of this stunning architectural marvel. Formerly the opulent Ponce de León Hotel, it now showcases the splendor of the Gilded Age.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Climb the iconic lighthouse for panoramic views and delve into the area’s history through interactive exhibits.
Anastasia State Park: Spend a day in nature with options for hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching. Or, simply relax on the sandy beaches of this scenic state park.
St. Augustine Distillery: Take a free tour of this award-winning distillery and learn about their handmade small-batch spirits. Don’t forget to try a sample or two!
Ghost Tours: St. Augustine is known as one of the most haunted cities in America, making it the perfect place for some spooky fun. Choose from a variety of ghost tours that explore the city’s eerie past.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: Get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures at one of the oldest zoos in Florida. You can even zipline over the alligator habitats!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Experience the weird and wacky world of Robert Ripley at this quirky museum. From shrunken heads to interactive illusions, there’s something for everyone.
Lightner Museum: Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, this museum showcases an impressive collection of art and artifacts from across the world.
Key Takeaways
All in all, St. Augustine Fish Camp offers an experience characterized by fresh ingredients, a relaxed and lively atmosphere, and waterfront views. Whether you’re indulging in their signature seafood dishes or enjoying a slice of key lime pie, you’ll always eat well.
For those who find themselves enchanted by the charm of St. Augustine, why not make it a more permanent stop? Considered buying a vacation home in the area and renting it while you’re away. When you’re ready, check out Short Turns Airbnb Management in St. Augustine, FL. We’re a local, family-owned business providing tailored services designed to meet the needs of each owner.