Nestled along the bank of the Tolomato River in St. Augustine, Aunt Kate’s Restaurant offers more than just a meal; it serves a slice of history, a dash of Southern charm, and a generous helping of hospitality. Whether you’re a local or a traveler seeking an authentic Old Florida experience, this hidden gem waterfront eatery delivers a dining adventure that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition.
A Legacy Steeped in Old Florida History.
The story of Aunt Kate’s begins over a century ago with Frank and Catherine “Kate” Usina, who were pioneers of the Menorcan community in St. Augustine. In 1900, while sailing along the coast, railroad magnate Henry Flagler strolled into their modest fish camp and requested a meal of roasted local oysters.
The Usinas were more than happy to oblige, and Flagler, impressed by their excellent service and delicious seafood, left a generous tip – more than a week’s wages at the time. This chance meeting sparked a tradition of serving fresh, local seafood and unique dishes that would endure through generations.
By 1910, the Usinas had expanded to include a larger boat to transport diners and guests and held a barn-raising event to construct the old frame building. This structure would house Usina’s Pavilion and later Oscar’s Old Florida Restaurant until it tragically burned down in 2001.
Of course, the Usina family rebuilt, and in March 2009, Aunt Kate’s Restaurant opened its doors, continuing the legacy of outstanding family dining, serving fresh, local seafood and Southern specialties to tourists enjoying Florida’s hidden gems and locals alike.
ENJOYING A FLORIDA FAMILY VACATION IN ST. AUGUSTINE?! WANDER TO A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE MUST-SEE ST. AUGUSTINE HIDDEN GEMS AND FOODIE DESTINATIONS!
A Must-Visit Spot with a View.
Honestly, we found this gem by accident. A camping booking mishap and a chance stay at the North Beach Camp Resort led us down a path to food nirvana!
Aunt Kate’s is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. The restaurant boasts multi-tiered outside decks overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, providing diners with breathtaking views of the river and its natural surroundings. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, the ambiance is enhanced by the gentle breeze, the sound of lapping water, and the occasional sighting of local wildlife.
inside Aunt Kate’s main dining room exudes rustic, Old Florida charm with family photographs and memorabilia gracing the walls, that tells the story of the Usina family and the guests they have welcomed over the years.
Grab a happy hour cocktail and a pound of boiled shrimp on the outdoor patio, listen to the sway of the palm trees, and enjoy Florida’s AMAZING ever-changing sunset!
A Menu That Celebrates Local Florida Flavors.
Aunt Kate’s diverse menu celebrates fresh local seafood and Southern specialties. Grab a pound of delicious peel-and-eat shrimp or gator tail served with a delightful creamy orange sauce. Honestly… the appetizers set the stage for a very memorable meal.
We also can’t pass up a yummy smoked fish dip! There is nothing better than the Florida sunshine warming you after kayaking and catching the beautiful water views. It’s PURE HEAVEN, Ya’ll!
Let’s chat about Aunt Kate’s GREAT SOUPS! She crab is a staple, but the Menorcan Clam Chowder is FANTASTIC, a nod to the region’s heritage, and a must-try. It offers a spicy twist on the traditional recipe.
Delicious dishes range from the St. Augustine Style Shrimp – available fried, grilled, broiled, or blackened – to the Low Country Boil, a hearty dish featuring shrimp, clams, mussels, crawfish, snow crab legs, corn, potatoes, and sausage. Craving more turf than surf, options like baby back ribs and New York strip steak are also available.
But…THAT North Beach Chicken…I mean, REALLY!! Chicken covered in a homemade Southern Comfort barbeque sauce and topped with bacon, provolone, shredded cheddar, and tomatoes! Seriously!!
Dive into sandwiches such as the Flounder Club and Mahi Reuben that offer creative takes on classic favorites, while baskets like the Fried Oyster Basket and Fish Bites provide casual, satisfying options. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and a commitment to quality that reflects the Usina family’s dedication to their craft.
How do we roll?! A lazy Saturday afternoon after kayaking the salt run, grabbing a seat on one of the outdoor decks, a drink from the Victory Bar, and a ton of apps, followed by one of their fantastic homemade desserts! That’s St. Augustine HAPPINESS!
Why Aunt Kate’s Southern Hospitality Is Genuinely Awesome.
Southern hospitality isn’t just a buzzword at Aunt Kate’s; it’s the soul and heartbeat of your entire dining experience. Starting from the absolute moment you step onto the weathered wood deck and catch your first glimpse of the Tolomato River, you’re treated like family. Not in the “here’s a table, order when you’re ready” way. More like, “we’re genuinely glad you’re here, and we hope you stay awhile.”
It’s a Generational Thing
Hospitality is one of Aunt Kate’s pleasures. This is a restaurant where the owners, staff, and even the customers often span generations. A lot of the staff have worked here for years (if not decades), and it shows in how they treat the guests. You feel like you’re part of a story that has spanned over a hundred years.
It Feels Personal…Because It Is
You’re not going to find check out over tired staff here! Whether you’re a tourist from out of town or a local who orders the blackened fish tacos every Thursday, they will remember you. Ya’ll will catch up as if they’ve known you forever and celebrate those special and NOT so special occasions with you.
No Rush, No Fuss…JUST Beautiful Sunsets
Southern hospitality means time slows down a bit. At Aunt Kate’s, you’re encouraged to linger. Want to sip sweet tea while watching the dolphins glide by?
Take your time. Need a little extra Hush Puppies sauce or another round of drinks before the sun dips? Done. You’re a guest.
It’s Backed by Local Pride
Serving local fresh seafood, celebrating Menorcan culture, and maintaining a dynamic historic legacy, Aunt Kate’s translates into every interaction. They love telling the family story, sprinkling bits of iconic history, and helping us connect to this diverse region, through their food and warm conversation.
It’s Comfort Without Pretense
The vibe is super chill, the smiles are genuine, and the service never feels scripted. Aunt Kate’s staff gives you space and steps in with just the right recommendation. There’s a fine line between friendly and overbearing, and Aunt Kate’s does it beautifully.
Best Time to WANDER to Aunt Kate’s.
While Aunt Kate’s is a year-round destination (it is Florida, Ya’ll), the BEST TIME to visit Aunt Kate’s Restaurant is spring and fall, specifically March through May and September through early November. During these seasons, the weather in St. Augustine is comfortably warm, humidity is low, and the outdoor deck seating becomes pure gold at sunset and dolphin spotting.
Late afternoon visits, around 4:30–6:00 p.m., are ideal for beating the dinner rush while catching the golden hour glow over the bank of the Tolomato River, especially if you want to secure a table with a view.
If live music is your jam and you love a livelier vibe, weekend evenings are the place to be. However, weekday lunches offer a quieter, more relaxed experience perfect for soaking in the history and ambiance without the crowds.
What to Do Near Aunt Kate’s.
So now that your belly is blissfully full, the area surrounding Aunt Kate’s offers plenty of low-key adventures and classic Florida experiences. Here’s how to turn your meal into a full-blown Intracoastal day trip:
Vilano Beach
Just a 5-minute drive from Aunt Kate’s, Vilano Beach is a quieter alternative to St. Augustine Beach. Take a post-lunch stroll along the coquina shell shoreline or snap a photo at the iconic Vilano Beach Pier.
Or, head right across the street from the turn off to Aunt Kate’s for beach access. Sunset here? Chef’s kiss.
Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve
Have you been?! It’s on our St. Augustine bucket list! A mouthful to say, and a feast for the eyes.
This nearby preserve offers nature trails, birdwatching, kayaking, and serene estuary views. It’s the perfect spot to walk off crab cakes and maybe spot a manatee or two.
Castillo de San Marcos
A quick 10-minute drive over the bridge brings you to downtown St. Augustine and the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. History buffs, rejoice, this 17th-century structure comes with cannon firings and riverfront views. A St. Augustine staple. Perfect for homeschooling families!
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Yes, the fabled fountain is just around the bend. This quirky historical attraction lets you drink from the spring, explore Spanish colonial digs, and get oddly philosophical about aging, before heading back to Aunt Kate’s bar for a cold one.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
If you don’t mind a few stairs (okay, 219), and a few haunted stories, the views from the top of the lighthouse are unmatched. Pair that with shipwreck exhibits and hands-on maritime activities, and you’ve got yourself a nautical afternoon well spent. It’s also a great park to enjoy a picnic in.
Florida Water Tours
Looking for a more leisurely way to explore the Tolomato River? Hop on a dolphin and wildlife eco-tour that launches just down the road. Sunset tours are super popular and pair wonderfully with dinner at Aunt Kate’s.
A Southern Tradition That Continues.
Aunt Kate’s Restaurant may have started with humble beginnings as a fish camp, but its current status is a must-visit dining destination in St. Augustine. Whether you’re savoring a plate of boiled shrimp, taking in the sunset from the deck, or learning about the rich history that permeates the establishment, Aunt Kate’s offers an experience that is uniquely St. Augustine. Come for the seafood, stay for the sunset, and leave with a story. HAPPY WANDERING!
| AUNT KATE’S RESTAURANT 612 Euclid Ave. St. Augustine, FL 32084 904.829.1105 https://aunt-kates.com/ |
Thanks for stopping by! "Hulasquatch" is the ultimate blend of adventure and chill! Part wild explorer, part laid-back Floridian, and always ready to hula through life’s adventures. Come along for the adventure as we explore Florida & beyond. Discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations, testing out cool gear, eating & creating fantastic food along the way. Happy wandering!
Leave a Reply