Columbia

98 St. George St., St. Augustine, FL 32084

Hours

Open daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

904-824-3341

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About

History and tradition meet award-winning cuisine at Columbia. Located in St. Augustine's historic district, this is a restaurant you don't want to skip. It is arguably the most stunning restaurant in all of St. Augustine! The architecture and decor is best described as traditional, warm, and elegant. Their story began over 100 years ago in Ybor City, Florida.

The Beginning

At first, Columbia was a small cafe known for their authentic Cuban coffee and sandwiches - founded and run by Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. After Prohibition began, Hernandez had to pivot his business plan to stay open. He and the owner of the restaurant next door decided to merge their businesses. Due to this expansion, they were able to keep their businesses open. After Hernandez Sr. passed away, his son Casimiro Hernandez Jr. took over the restaurant.

Casimiro Jr. dreamt of a restaurant that exceeded the normal standard back in the day. He envisioned music, air conditioning, dancing, and more. Through his hard work and leap of faith, he was able to bring his dream to life. After this renovation, Columbia was renamed the Don Quixote Room.

Years later, Ybor City had started to become a ghost town. Due to the closing of cigar factories and job losses, many families moved to other cities. In short, the city began to empty and decay. Casimiro Jr.'s son-in-law Casey knew that in order to keep the restaurant alive, they needed to pivot their business once again.

That is where the entertainment aspect was born. They built a performance room and invited world-class performers to their restaurant - it worked! Even today, they continue the tradition and have Spanish Flamenco dancers perform nightly except Sundays. (Tampa location)

Columbia Today

Over 115 years and 5 generations later, Columbia still remains in the family. The original restaurant in Tampa is considered Florida's Oldest Restaurant. Additionally, the original restaurant is the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. They have expanded throughout Florida and now boast 5 locations and 2 additional cafes.

The Food

Columbia serves award-winning Spanish and Cuban fusion cuisine. The 10 page dinner menu, modeled after a classic newspaper, boasts a fine selection of traditional dishes.

What's dinner without a good cocktail? If you're in a group, we recommend a mojito pitcher. Otherwise, you should try the Tango Mango or Margarita Garrafon.

Our Recommendations for Best Dishes at Columbia

The "Tapeo" Sampler

If you're just visiting Florida, chances are you won't get to come to Columbia too often. For this reason, we recommend the "Tapeo" sampler to start off your meal. This sharable is perfect for 3-4 people and it allows you to try a little bit of everything. In total, you will receive your choice of 3 tapas. This starter costs $34-38 which is on the steep side, but how many chances will you get to try their award winning food?

Chicken and Yellow Rice "Valenciana"

This is one of Columbia's signature dishes. It takes a little bit longer to prepare than other entrees, but you will be handsomely rewarded for your patience. This dish comes with one half bone-in chicken with green peppers, Spanish onions, tomato, smoked ham, hearts of artichoke, garlic, and olive oil. Then, it all gets baked in a casserole with La Bomba Spanish rice. Finally, it is topped with white wine, green peas, and red pimentos. *Chef's Kiss*

Local Tips

Reservations are highly recommended - book via their website or OpenTable.
Casual attire is allowed however sleeveless shirts are not allowed on men.
Open 365 days of the year.

Location

98 St. George St., St. Augustine, FL 32084

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to St. Augustine, FL?

St. Augustine is located minutes off of I-95 between Jacksonville Beaches and Palm Coast. If flying, the closest airport to St. Augustine is Jacksonville (JAX) about 30 minutes away.

When is the best time to visit St. Augustine?

The best times to visit are March–May and September–November. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, and access to the area’s top events, including Sing Out Loud Festival and Founder’s Day. Spring is ideal for beach lovers and garden tours, while fall is perfect for history buffs, culinary travelers, and ghost tour enthusiasts.

What's the best way to explore the historic district in St. Augustine?

The Old Town Trolley Tours are a favorite for first-time visitors, offering hop-on/hop-off convenience and guided narration through the city’s landmarks.

Where can I find authentic local seafood in St. Augustine?

Try local favorites like Aunt Kate’s, Cap’s on the Water, or Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille for fresh coastal fare with a St. Augustine twist.

What is St. Augustine known for?

St. Augustine, Florida is known as the nation’s oldest capital and oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States. It was founded in 1565 by Don Pedro Menendez and Spanish settlers 50 years after Ponce de León claimed Florida for the Spanish crown. The majestic Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., remains a central attraction for visitors to St. Augustine.

What are the biggest events in St. Augustine, FL?

St. Augustine provides a rich calendar of events at any time of the year. The city’s Nights of Lights (Nov – Jan) is listed by National Geographic as among the top 10 holiday light displays in the world. Come spring, The Players Championship takes place at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra just minutes from St. Augustine. The city is also home to several festivals showcasing historic reenactments, Spring bird watching, film, food, and pirates.

What's the best way to spend one day in St. Augustine, FL?

Any trip to St. Augustine should undoubtedly include a visit to the monumental Castillo de San Marcos on the western shore of Matanzas Bay. The national monument, built by the Spanish over 300 years ago, remains a steadfast reminder of the area’s colonial past.

In addition, one of the best ways to catch all the must-sees in St. Augustine in just one day is to hop on the Old Town Trolley. This will take you to iconic spots including the Old City Gates, the famed Fountain of Youth, and across the Bridge of Lions.

Closer to the coast, step into the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum where you can climb up into the historic 165-foot-tall lighthouse for a view of the area. Stop over for lunch at Salt Life Food Shack near St. Augustine beach for the laid-back vibe and eclectic seafood dishes.

Be sure to take time during the day to explore the shops, boutiques, and cafés along St. George Street in the historic center. This pedestrian-only street was historically the heart of the city and continues to be a thriving hub of activity lined with restaurants, shops, and history galore.

Wind down the evening by treating yourself to dinner at Columbia in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. Named as one of Florida’s top restaurants since 1967, the Columbia is the largest Spanish restaurant in the world and family-owned and operated since 1905.

How is parking handled in downtown St. Augustine?

Downtown has metered street parking, garages, and park-and-ride options. During peak times (especially Nights of Lights), it’s best to arrive early or use public shuttles.