Imagine stepping off the historic streets of St. Augustine and entering a beautiful Spanish-style restaurant filled with colorful hand-painted tiles, elegant balconies, Mediterranean architecture, and a charming fountain.
Now imagine enjoying traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine, watching a famous salad prepared right at your table, and dining in a restaurant connected to more than 120 years of Florida history.
Welcome to Columbia Restaurant in St. Augustine, Florida, one of the city's most memorable dining destinations.
Located along historic St. George Street, Columbia combines old-world atmosphere, family recipes, and a fascinating history that began in Tampa in 1905.
Whether you're exploring America's oldest continuously occupied European-established city, celebrating a special occasion, or searching for an unforgettable restaurant, Columbia deserves a place on your Florida bucket list.
A Taste of Spain in Historic St. Augustine
Walking into Columbia Restaurant feels like entering a beautiful Mediterranean courtyard.
The restaurant features richly decorated dining rooms with hundreds of colorful hand-painted tiles, traditional artwork, Spanish-style architectural details, and a striking fountain.
With two floors of dining space, the restaurant offers several different areas where guests can enjoy lunch or dinner.
The atmosphere is elegant without being overly formal, making it suitable for everything from a casual sightseeing lunch to a special anniversary dinner.
One of the most enjoyable parts of visiting is simply appreciating the details.
The tilework, balconies, and old-world surroundings create an experience that's completely different from an ordinary restaurant.
And because Columbia is located in the heart of St. Augustine's historic district, it fits beautifully into a day spent exploring the city's Spanish heritage.
The History of Florida's Oldest Restaurant
Columbia Restaurant's story began in 1905, when Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez Sr. opened a small café in Tampa's Ybor City neighborhood.
At the time, Ybor City was a thriving center of cigar manufacturing, attracting immigrants from Cuba, Spain, Italy, and other countries.
The restaurant became a gathering place for workers and families who enjoyed traditional Cuban and Spanish dishes.
Over the decades, Columbia expanded into an impressive dining establishment while remaining under the ownership of the founding family.
Today, the original Tampa location is recognized as Florida's oldest restaurant and one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the United States.
The Gonzmart family continues to operate Columbia restaurants throughout Florida, preserving recipes and traditions that have been passed down through five generations.
When Did Columbia Restaurant Open in St. Augustine?
Although the original Columbia Restaurant opened in Tampa in 1905, the St. Augustine location has its own history.
The restaurant opened over Fourth of July weekend in 1983.
Its location on St. George Street placed it in the middle of one of Florida's most historic destinations.
Over the years, the St. Augustine restaurant has become a favorite among locals and visitors exploring the city's shops, museums, and landmarks.
The combination of Spanish-inspired architecture and traditional cuisine makes it particularly fitting for a city with such strong Spanish colonial roots.
Today, Columbia remains a popular choice for lunch, dinner, family gatherings, and special occasions.
What Kind of Food Does Columbia Restaurant Serve?
Columbia specializes in Spanish and Cuban cuisine, with recipes influenced by the restaurant's immigrant heritage.
The menu includes hearty soups, seafood, rice dishes, sandwiches, roasted meats, and traditional desserts.
Many dishes have remained closely associated with Columbia for generations.
Here are some of the most recognizable menu favorites.
Columbia's Original 1905 Salad
If there's one dish Columbia Restaurant is especially famous for, it's the Original 1905 Salad.
Named for the year the original restaurant opened, this signature salad is prepared tableside.
The ingredients include:
-
Crisp Iceberg Lettuce
-
Baked Ham
-
Swiss Cheese
-
Tomatoes
-
Olives
-
Grated Romano Cheese
-
Worcestershire Sauce
-
Columbia's Famous Garlic Dressing
The dressing is made with Spanish extra-virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, oregano, and white wine vinegar.
Watching the salad tossed at your table is part of the experience.
The combination of fresh vegetables, savory ham, cheese, and tangy dressing has made the 1905 Salad one of Columbia's most recognizable dishes.
It's an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want to try something closely connected to the restaurant's history.
Paella a la Valenciana
For a traditional Spanish-inspired entrée, consider Paella a la Valenciana.
Paella is a famous Spanish rice dish associated with the Valencia region of Spain.
Columbia's version combines yellow rice with seafood, chicken, and other ingredients, creating a hearty meal filled with Mediterranean flavors.
It's an especially appealing option for visitors who want to experience one of Spain's best-known dishes.
Paella takes time to prepare, so ask your server about the expected preparation time when ordering.
Arroz con Pollo Valenciana
Another Columbia favorite is Arroz con Pollo Valenciana.
This traditional chicken-and-rice dish reflects the Spanish and Cuban influences that have shaped the restaurant's menu.
The dish features seasoned chicken served with flavorful yellow rice.
It's a comforting, satisfying option for diners who enjoy classic Latin-inspired meals.
Roast Pork a la Cubana
Roast Pork a la Cubana is another longtime Columbia specialty.
The restaurant serves Cuban-style roast pork with traditional accompaniments.
Slow-roasted pork is an important part of Cuban cuisine, often seasoned with garlic, citrus, and other flavorful ingredients.
It's a wonderful option for guests who want to explore Columbia's Cuban culinary heritage.
Spanish Bean Soup
One of the restaurant's most historic dishes is Spanish Bean Soup.
The recipe dates back to Columbia's founder, Casimiro Hernandez Sr.
This hearty soup combines garbanzo beans, smoked ham, chorizo sausage, and potatoes in a flavorful broth.
It has been associated with the restaurant for generations and remains one of its signature offerings.
If you enjoy traditional comfort food, Spanish Bean Soup is worth considering.
The Famous Cuban Sandwich
Columbia Restaurant also serves a traditional Cuban Sandwich.
The sandwich is an important part of Tampa's culinary history, reflecting the city's Cuban immigrant community.
Columbia's version combines familiar Cuban sandwich ingredients on Cuban bread.
It's a popular choice for visitors who want a casual lunch without ordering a larger entrée.
Pair it with a cup of Spanish Bean Soup for a meal inspired by Tampa's historic food traditions.
Don't Forget the Flan
For dessert, consider Columbia's traditional flan.
This classic Spanish and Latin American dessert features a smooth custard topped with caramel.
Its creamy texture and rich caramel flavor make it a fitting way to finish a meal of Spanish or Cuban cuisine.
Other dessert selections may also be available, so check the current menu when visiting.
Watch Sangria Prepared Tableside
Columbia Restaurant is also known for its sangria.
The restaurant offers traditional sangria made with wine, fruit, and other ingredients.
For guests who order the tableside presentation, watching the preparation adds another memorable element to the dining experience.
Columbia also has an extensive wine selection, including Spanish wines.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a leisurely meal, the tableside traditions contribute to the restaurant's old-world atmosphere.
A Beautiful Restaurant for Special Occasions
With its Spanish-style architecture, hand-painted tiles, elegant dining rooms, and traditional service, Columbia is an appealing choice for celebrations.
The St. Augustine location offers private dining and banquet spaces for special events.
Its atmosphere makes it suitable for anniversaries, birthdays, family gatherings, and other occasions.
However, you don't need a special reason to visit.
Columbia is also a wonderful place to stop for lunch while exploring downtown St. Augustine.
The restaurant welcomes guests in casual attire, although its published dining-room dress policy does not permit sleeveless shirts on men.
Explore Historic St. Augustine Before or After Your Meal
One of the best things about Columbia Restaurant is its location.
Situated at 98 St. George Street, the restaurant is surrounded by some of St. Augustine's most interesting attractions.
You can easily combine lunch or dinner with a day of sightseeing.
Nearby places worth exploring include:
St. George Street
This historic pedestrian-friendly shopping street features locally operated shops, restaurants, galleries, and historic buildings.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
One of St. Augustine's most famous landmarks, this impressive stone fortress offers fascinating insight into Florida's Spanish colonial history.
Flagler College
Known for its beautiful Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture, Flagler College occupies the former Hotel Ponce de Leon.
Lightner Museum
Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, this museum features art, antiques, and collections displayed in an extraordinary historic building.
Historic Downtown St. Augustine
Spend time exploring the city's narrow streets, historic landmarks, beautiful architecture, and waterfront scenery.
With so much nearby, Columbia makes an excellent stop during a full day of sightseeing.
Tips for Visiting Columbia Restaurant
A little planning can help you enjoy your visit.
Make a reservation. Columbia accepts reservations, and booking ahead is especially helpful during weekends, holidays, and busy tourism periods.
Try the Original 1905 Salad. It's one of the restaurant's most famous dishes and is prepared tableside.
Allow time to enjoy the atmosphere. The tilework, fountain, and beautiful dining rooms are part of what makes the experience special.
Ask about the paella preparation time. Some dishes require additional cooking time.
Consider lunch during a sightseeing day. Columbia's central location makes it convenient while exploring historic St. Augustine.
Review the parking arrangements. The restaurant has a private parking lot with limited availability and specific time restrictions.
Explore St. George Street afterward. The surrounding historic district offers plenty of shops and attractions within walking distance.
Check the current menu. Individual dishes, prices, and availability may change.
Parking at Columbia Restaurant
Parking in historic downtown St. Augustine can be challenging during busy periods.
Fortunately, Columbia offers a private parking lot for restaurant guests, subject to availability.
According to the restaurant's current parking policy, guests have 20 minutes after parking to reach the front desk and check in.
The first two hours of parking are complimentary for eligible restaurant guests.
After the two-hour period, additional parking costs $7.50 per hour.
Because spaces are limited, it's best to allow extra time and review the parking instructions when you arrive.
If the lot is full, public parking options are available elsewhere in downtown St. Augustine.
Plan Your Visit to Columbia Restaurant
Restaurant: Columbia Restaurant — St. Augustine
Location: Historic Downtown St. Augustine, Florida
Address: 98 St. George Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Phone: (904) 824-3341
Official Website: https://www.columbiarestaurant.com/
Hours: Daily, 11 AM–10 PM
Cuisine: Spanish and Cuban
Reservations: Accepted and recommended during busy periods
Dining Areas: Mediterranean-style dining rooms, balconies, and courtyard seating
Popular Menu Items:
-
Original 1905 Salad
-
Paella a la Valenciana
-
Arroz con Pollo Valenciana
-
Roast Pork a la Cubana
-
Spanish Bean Soup
-
Cuban Sandwich
-
Flan
-
Tableside Sangria
Parking: Limited private parking available for restaurant guests, with up to two complimentary hours under the restaurant's parking policy
Recommended Visit Length: Allow approximately 1–2 hours for a relaxed meal, especially if ordering tableside specialties or paella.
Before You Go: Check the official website for current menus, reservation availability, and parking details.
Is Columbia Restaurant Worth Visiting?
If you love beautiful restaurants, historic architecture, and traditional Spanish and Cuban cuisine, Columbia Restaurant is absolutely worth considering.
There aren't many places where you can enjoy recipes connected to more than a century of Florida history while dining among colorful Spanish tiles, elegant balconies, and Mediterranean-inspired architecture.
The Original 1905 Salad is a memorable tableside experience, the traditional dishes reflect generations of family recipes, and the restaurant's location makes it a wonderful addition to a St. Augustine getaway.
Whether you're visiting for the food, the history, or the beautiful surroundings, Columbia offers an experience that's much more than an ordinary meal.
Discover More Incredible Restaurants and Hidden Gems Throughout Florida!
Love finding beautiful restaurants, charming historic towns, unusual attractions, scenic beaches, natural springs, and unforgettable places to explore?
"The Ultimate Florida Bucket List" is filled with inspiration for discovering incredible destinations throughout the Sunshine State.
From memorable dining experiences and historic landmarks to quirky roadside attractions, outdoor adventures, and hidden treasures, it's designed to help you find places worth visiting beyond the usual tourist destinations.