These are the 10 best restaurants in St. Augustine, ranked by local expert

St. Augustine has many allures: an ancient city founded by the Spanish in 1565, a striking bay front setting complete with a 400 year-old stone fort and national treasure, the Castillo San Marcos at the water’s edge. It’s not uncommon to see men an women in Colonial garb wander their street and hear cannon blasts from weaponry demonstrations pierce the air.

As America’s oldest continuously occupied city–450 years old this year, as a matter of fact–it’s restaurant scene is far from stuffy and predictable. St Augustine’s cuisine scene is growing, offering fresh and diverse options for dining.

You can sample authentic Spanish foods such as grab-and-go empanadas or a sophisticated meal of tapas paired with wine. The farm to table movement is also emerging with chefs eagerly embracing Florida’s amazing, seasonal produce.

For something more casual or a treat to keep you going on you walk through the Old City, local coffee shops, locally made chocolate, gourmet icy treats and fresh, hot waffles tempt your resilience when you catch a whiff or a glimpse of all the tasty things practically spilling out onto the streets.

We show you 10 restaurants, bakeries and sweet stops to savor on your visit to this beautiful and historic city.