10 Hidden Gems in St. Augustine You Can’t Miss
Discover the charm of St. Augustine, Florida, with our guide to its top hidden gems. From delightful eateries to quirky speakeasies, this historic city offers unique experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or a lover of the unexpected, these lesser-known places promise to enrich your visit to the nation’s oldest city.
Explore St. Augustine’s Hidden Treasures
Dive into St. Augustine’s most unique spots, where local flavors and intriguing histories combine to create unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s enjoying handcrafted cocktails or indulging in decadent desserts, these hidden gems reflect the city’s vibrant character.
Ben’s Soft Pretzels
📍 54 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 12 PM – 8 PM
Known for their nearly half-pound, Amish-inspired pretzels, Ben’s offers the perfect blend of buttery, fluffy goodness with both sweet and salty flavors to satisfy every craving. Beyond their freshly baked pretzels and pretzel sandwiches, you’ll find a charming hidden gem: a cozy secret garden in the back, complete with lush greenery and comfy seating.
Bar Harbor Cheesecake
📍 6 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 11:11 AM – 11:11 PM
With over 100+ flavors to choose from, Bar Harbor Cheesecake brings unique twists to the classic cheesecake. Try a cheesecake tasting for a little bit of everything or relax in their cozy, quiet ambiance. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a slice to go, you’ll find plenty to enjoy, from savory cheesecakes and charcuterie boards to their signature wine pairings.
Pizza Time
📍 124 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 11 AM – 10:30 PM
Known for its crispy, authentic Brooklyn crust and fresh ingredients, Pizza Time offers slices and made-to-order pies that are hard to beat. Grab a slice or try a calzone, cannoli, or olive salad, and enjoy free parking at the Spanish Street entrance. With its central location and nearby Gelato Time for dessert, Pizza Time is a perfect stop to fuel up while exploring historic St. Augustine.
Forgotten Tonic
📍 6 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 Sun–Thurs, 11 AM – 11 PM; Fri–Sat, 11 AM – 12 AM
Forgotten Tonic is known for its handcrafted cocktails, an impressive wine selection, and comfort food with a modern twist. With appetizers like Cajun egg rolls and mains like shrimp and grits étouffée, there’s something for every palate. Don’t miss their popular happy hour, and be sure to make a reservation if you’re visiting on a weekend. Relax in the European-inspired ambiance indoors or dine al fresco on one of the nation’s oldest streets!
Casa Maya
📍 22 Hypolita St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 Mon and TTh, 12 PM – 10 PM; Wed, 4 PM – 10 PM; Fri, 12 PM – 11 PM; Sat, 11 AM – 11 PM; Sun, 11 AM – 10 PM
Tucked away just off St. George Street, Casa Maya is a vibrant spot for authentic Latin American flavors right in the heart of St. Augustine. With an eclectic menu of seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, there’s something for every taste. Start with a bowl of their famous Mayan Soup, then dive into fresh tacos, tortas, or their delicious seafood specialties. Don’t miss their Smoke & Fire cocktail—an unforgettable smoked jalapeño margarita! With live music filling the air, Casa Maya’s cozy patio is the perfect place to sip, savor, and soak in the local vibes.
Crucial Coffee Café
📍 26 Charlotte St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 Sun–Thu, 8:30 AM – 9 PM; Fri–Sat, 8:30 AM – 10 PM
Step into Crucial Coffee Café, a coffee haven housed in a historic blacksmith shop, just steps from the Castillo de San Marcos. With cozy indoor seating, shelves of books, and an outdoor garden, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy views of St. Augustine’s historic district. Indulge in freshly brewed coffees, teas, and smoothies, or try their refreshing bubble teas in unique flavors like mojito mix and kiwi. Pair your drink with a sweet baked treat or a scoop of soft-serve ice cream.
Gaufres and Goods
📍 212 Charlotte St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 Sun, Fri, Wed, 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Thurs, 11:30 AM – 4:15 PM; Sat, 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Gaufres and Goods offers authentic Greek and Polish flavors. Known for its sugar-dusted waffles and hearty pierogies, this family-owned gem serves homemade dishes like mussels, spinach pie, and classic pastries. Enjoy a cozy, European-inspired meal with a selection of Eastern European beers, wines, and handcrafted espresso drinks. With its welcoming atmosphere, Gaufres and Goods is the perfect spot for a taste of Greece and Poland right in the historic district!
The Well Bar
📍 149 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 Mon–Thurs, 3 PM – 10 PM; Fri-Sat, 1 PM – 11 PM; Sun, 1 PM – 10 PM
Accessible only to guests of the Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens, the Well Bar is a hidden gem with a speakeasy vibe that transports you back in time. Known for its well-crafted cocktails infused with herbs from the on-site garden, this bar offers a storied atmosphere where bartenders share tales of St. Augustine’s past. Whether you’re savoring a signature drink or enjoying a light snack, the Well is a memorable stop for those seeking a historic experience in the heart of the city.
The Tipsy Duck Parlor
📍 58 Hypolita St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 12:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Discover the quirky charm of Tipsy Duck Parlor, a hidden speakeasy tucked inside Bath Junkie in St. Augustine. This spot offers duck-themed cocktails, wine-based drinks, and draft beers—all served with a signature rubber ducky garnish. With decor that includes bubbling bar counters, bathtub couches, and duck barstools, it’s an ideal spot for a fun drink and some Instagram-worthy photos. The Tipsy Duck Parlor is a one-of-a-kind sip-and-shop experience that’s sure to make a splash!
Schmagel’s Bagels
📍 69 Hypolita St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
🕛 Thurs–Mon, 8 AM – 1 PM
For over 35 years, Schmagel’s Bagels has been serving up the best NY-style bagels in St. Augustine. Locally loved and family-owned, this spot is a must-visit for breakfast or lunch. It offers a tree-shaded patio perfect for taking in the historic downtown vibes. From classic bagels to hearty sandwiches, Schmagel’s is a staple for tourists and locals alike.
Experience St. Augustine Like a Local
St. Augustine’s hidden gems offer more than just unique flavors and fascinating atmospheres—they provide a glimpse into the heart and history of this timeless city. Whether you’re sipping cocktails in a secret garden, enjoying a savory pierogi, or taking in the charm of historic streets, these spots promise unforgettable moments. Dive into the unexpected and let St. Augustine surprise you at every turn.
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