Take a journey back in time and experience the history of St. Augustine at the Columbia Restaurant. Located in the heart of the nation’s oldest city, Columbia Restaurant is a beloved landmark serving traditional and award-winning Spanish-Cuban cuisine since 1905. This post will take you on a tour of the restaurant’s history and why it’s a must-visit for any hungry foodie.
A Brief History of Florida’s Oldest Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant holds the incredible accolade of being part of Florida’s oldest restaurant chain. It was originally established in Tampa’s historic Ybor City as the Columbia Saloon in 1903 by Spanish-Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. The saloon later transformed into the Columbia Restaurant in 1905.
Since then, the restaurant has remained family-owned and operated, currently in its fourth and fifth generation of ownership. In fact, the original Tampa location holds the title of the world’s largest Spanish restaurant.
Additionally, in 2018, the Distinguished Restaurants of North America inducted the Columbia Restaurant chain into their Hall of Fame. The St. Augustine location opened in 1983. Other locations include Sarasota, Clearwater, Celebration, Tampa Riverwalk, and even the Tampa International Airport.
Highlights of the Columbia Restaurant Menu
The Columbia Restaurant in St. Augustine offers an array of menu options that reflect its Spanish and Cuban heritage. Known for its forward flavors and authentic recipes, the restaurant is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Below are some of the standout Spanish and Cuban food items cherished by the restaurant’s regulars:
Spanish Bean Soup
The Spanish Bean Soup is the dish that put the Columbia Restaurant on the map. Made with ham, chorizo, garbanzo beans, and potatoes, this hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
The Original 1905 Salad
Another popular dish at the Columbia Restaurant is the 1905 Salad. This refreshing salad is made with crisp iceberg lettuce, julienne baked ham, Swiss cheese, tomato, olives, grated Romano cheese, and their famous garlic dressing.
This combination of ingredients creates an incredible balance of flavors and textures that make it a fan favorite. In fact, the salad was even awarded honors from USA Today as “One of 10 Great Places to Make a Meal Out of a Salad.
The Original Cuban Sandwich
As expected, the Columbia Restaurant also serves up an amazing Cuban sandwich. In 2021, Food & Wine magazine named the Cuban the Best Sandwich in Florida. Made with a combination of ham, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on freshly baked Cuban bread, this classic sandwich is another must-try.
Key Lime Pie
No meal at the Columbia Restaurant is complete without a slice of their famous Key Lime Pie. Made with fresh key lime juice and a graham cracker crust, this dessert is a staple in any Floridian’s diet. In fact, it was even voted as the “official state pie of Florida” by the state legislature in 2006.
White Chocolate Bread Pudding
For those with an even sweeter sweet tooth, the Columbia Restaurant also offers a decadent bread pudding. Made with soft bread, white chocolate chunks, and drizzled with Bacardi Rum sauce, this dessert is the perfect way to top off your meal.
Additional Spanish and Cuban Food Options
In addition to these popular dishes, the Columbia Restaurant also offers an extensive menu featuring other traditional Spanish and Cuban dishes such as paella, black beans and yellow rice, and fried plantains.
They also have a wide selection of seafood options, including fresh fish and shrimp dishes. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available to accommodate all dietary restrictions.
What to Expect at the Columbia Restaurant
When you step inside the Columbia Restaurant, St. Augustine, you’re greeted with a warm welcome that reflects its heritage. The restaurant has multiple dining rooms adorned with Spanish-style architecture, featuring intricate hand-painted tiles, loud colors, Spanish-style fountains, and beautiful mosaics.
Exceptional Service
The staff at the Columbia Restaurant prides themselves on providing exceptional service. From the moment you’re seated, you’ll receive attentive and friendly service from knowledgeable servers who are eager to share the restaurant’s history and offer recommendations on food and wine pairings.
Family-Friendly
The Columbia Restaurant is a family-owned business that has been passed down for over 100 years. As such, they strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all guests, including children.
The menu offers several kid-friendly options, and the staff is always happy to accommodate any special requests or preferences. You’ll be just as comfortable dining with the family as you would be taking a business lunch here.
Live Entertainment
The Columbia Restaurant frequently hosts live entertainment. Guests can enjoy performances such as flamenco dancing and live music.
A Taste of Tradition
Dining at the Columbia Restaurant is not just about the food; it’s about celebrating tradition. Each dish is prepared with care and authenticity that showcases the flavors and techniques passed down through generations. Guests will savor centuries-old recipes that have been perfected for the modern palate.
Things to Do Near the Columbia Restaurant, St. Augustine
Whether you’re looking to dive into history, explore the shopping scene, or simply enjoy the architecture of St. Augustine, there’s plenty to see and do near the Columbia Restaurant. Here are some highlights to consider during your visit:
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: Just a short 10-minute walk away, this historic fort offers guided tours and a glimpse into the military history of the area.
St. George St.: A bustling pedestrian-only street lined with quaint shops, eateries, and galleries that promise a delightful stroll through St. Augustine’s historic district.
Flagler College: Admire the striking architecture of this college. It’s known for its beautifully preserved buildings and landscaping.
Lightner Museum: Located in the former Hotel Alcazar, this museum is home to an impressive collection of 19th-century artifacts, including fine art, antique furnishings, and more.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views and explore the museum’s exhibits on maritime history.
Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: Discover the legend of the Fountain of Youth and explore the lush grounds and interactive exhibits.
Key Takeaways
A visit to the Columbia Restaurant in St. Augustine is not just about the food but also about immersing yourself in the history that surrounds it. The proximity to significant landmarks, such as the Castillo de San Marcos and St. George Street, makes it the perfect spot for your foodie adventures. Whether you’re eating lunch or dinner while enjoying signature dishes or exploring the nearby attractions, the Columbia Restaurant serves as the perfect gateway to experience the energy of old St. Augustine.
Extend your visit to St. Augustine by investing in a vacation home. You’ll then have the option to rent out your property during the warmer months when you’re not in town.
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