Gluten Free Dining in St. Augustine and Along the Beaches

It’s no secret that Florida’s Historic Coast is a foodie’s paradise. From upscale, waterfront dining to small bistros tucked away in the heart of the historic district, there’s something to tempt every appetite. Despite the culinary excitement created by a host of new flavors and dining experiences, it’s a fact that for many visitors there’s the nagging question – “but is anything gluten free?” Rest assured. The answer is a resounding “yes”!

Historic District

The Columbia Restaurant | 98 St. George Street
Outstanding Spanish-Cuban cuisine in a setting straight out of a Hemingway novel. The extensive lunch and dinner menu features numerous gluten free choices. Start with Cuban Black Bean Soup and the Columbia’s original “1905” salad. Tapas? The Gambas Al Ajillo is a GF shrimp delight. Choose from numerous GF entrees including the Palomilla flank steak and Roast Pork “a la Cubana.” And yes, their Flan is gluten free.

The Floridian | 72 Spanish Street
A favorite with locals and visitors alike, The Floridian is “a synthesis of down-home Southern comfort foods and lighter, healthier, vibrant and creative dishes.” More than half of the meals on their menu are gluten free. Plus, celiac, vegan and vegetarian substitutes are available – just ask your server. Want to try something uniquely local? Go with the GF Shrimp and Sausage Pilau (per-low). All of the tasty ingredients come from local growers and producers. As a result, the menu changes with the seasons.

One-Twenty-Three Burger House | 123 King Street
This is the place for burgers in downtown St. Augustine – lots of choices or you can craft your own. All of them are available on a GF bun or croissant. Plus, they have GF fries, rolls and beer!

MiMi’s Famous Crepes | 54 St. George Street
It’s a little taste of Paris in the Historic District. Offers an extensive menu of savory crepes (roast beef, short ribs, chicken cordon bleu, etc.) and sweet crepes (chocolate, strawberry, lemon, etc.) all prepared before your very eyes. Just ask and your crepe will be made from GF buckwheat flour. Be sure to dine out back in their beautiful garden.

Crave | 135 King Street
The food here is healthy, local and fun! Nearly everything on the menu can be prepared gluten free - including their rice bowls and salads. There are a dozen GF smoothies to choose from. Open 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Free parking behind the restaurant!

GF Tip: Don’t forget to “grill” your server – ask questions about GF options and food preparation. You’ll find them to be a wealth of information.

PicturedMiMi's Famous Crepes

The Beaches

Years ago, the tagline for promoting the area was “42 miles of beaches and the rest is history.” So for those venturing beyond history to the nearby beaches, there is no shortage of GF dining selections just steps from the surf.

GF Tip: St. Augustine’s outstanding seafood restaurants are accustomed to preparing dishes that are gluten free. Locally caught grouper, snapper, redfish and flounder served grilled or blackened are GF (don’t be shy about asking details – make sure there are no breadcrumbs in the rub).

Sunset Grille | 421 A1A Beach Blvd.
The epitome of beach vacation dining, this restaurant features a fun atmosphere, second story open deck for outdoor dining and that special “vibe” that tells diners “you’re at the beach.” Lots of GF options – don’t forget to ask about daily specials. Try the ahi tuna appetizer – really outstanding and the chef will prepare it without soy sauce – yes, soy sauce had flour in it. Also, their Datil Wings feature the local spicy pepper flavor without batter.

Connolly’s Shore Grill | 4320 A1A South
Family owned and operated, this is a popular breakfast, brunch and lunch destination. For GF options (including breakfast pancakes), just ask. The owner and his wife have personal experience with GF diets.

Café Eleven | 501 A1A Beach Blvd.
A local favorite featuring New American fare with tasty GF offerings (just ask for details) including nachos, shrimp avocado stack and a variety of seafood entrees prepared gluten free. Café Eleven is also a popular venue for live music performances.

Paladar Cuban Eatery and Bakery | 5575 A1A South, #112
Looking for GF desserts? This is the place. GF cakes, cheesecakes, and more! Plus, outstanding Cuban cuisine.

GF Tip: If you haven’t, download the Find Me Gluten Free app. It will quickly provide a listing and map showing nearby GF dining opportunities throughout St. Augustine (yes, it works for other destinations as well).

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