The Best Seafood in St Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is a coastal paradise where the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway deliver some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste. Known for its historic charm and vibrant food scene, this city is a haven for seafood lovers searching for the best catch. Whether you’re craving succulent shrimp, flaky grouper, or zesty ceviche, St. Augustine’s restaurants serve up dishes that capture the essence of Florida’s coast.

Below, we reel in the best seafood restaurants in St. Augustine. These brick-and-mortar establishments each offer an unparalleled dining experience. In addition, we’ll show you how to elevate your seafood adventure with a luxurious dinner cruise from St. Augustine Sailing, where gourmet cuisine meets breathtaking bayfront views.

Top Seafood Restaurants in St Augustine

America’s Oldest City has no shortage of terrific seafood restaurants. Here are a few of our favorites:

Catch 27

Set in St. Augustine’s historic district, Catch 27 is a cozy gem serving some of the best seafood in St. Augustine. This restaurant prides itself on sourcing daily catches from Florida’s waters, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavorful. The seasonal menu features fish like snapper, mahi-mahi, or flounder, prepared blackened, grilled, or sautéed. Signature dishes include crispy corn-fried oysters with remoulade and the blackened fish sandwich, paired with creative sides like fried green tomatoes or tasso ham aioli. The intimate courtyard, equipped with fans and heaters, offers a charming al fresco setting.

Unlike chain restaurants, Catch 27’s scratch-made approach delivers authenticity. Locals love the warm service and vibrant flavors, perfect with a craft beer or local wine.

St Augustine Fish Camp

Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, St. Augustine Fish Camp is a laid-back favorite for fresh seafood with stunning harbor views. This family-friendly spot offers a versatile menu where you choose your fish—think triggerfish or wahoo—and preparation style (blackened, grilled, or fried), served with hush puppies, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries. The low country boil, a shareable feast of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, is a unique highlight. Don’t miss the grilled octopus appetizer or creamy crab dip.

Its dog-friendly outdoor seating and lively atmosphere make it ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner. The waterfront setting and commitment to quality make it a top choice for the best seafood in St. Augustine.

Cap's On The Water

Cap’s on the Water delivers a waterfront escape with Intracoastal views that elevate every meal. Its sprawling outdoor deck, tiki bar, and Sunset Oyster Bar create a resort-like ambiance, perfect for sunset dining. The menu blends Southern and Mediterranean flavors, featuring honey rosemary salmon, the seafood trio (crab cakes, fried shrimp, scallops), and fresh-shucked oysters. Chef Chip’s nightly specials, like pistachio-crusted grouper, showcase creativity, paired with an award-winning wine list and handcrafted cocktails.

The live music and twinkling lights set it apart from urban eateries, offering a vacation-like experience. Locals flock to the pet-friendly deck, making Cap’s a standout for the best seafood in St. Augustine.

O'Steen's Restaurant

A St. Augustine staple since 1965, O’Steen’s Restaurant is legendary for its fried shrimp, lightly battered and crispy. This cash-only, family-owned diner exudes Southern charm with homestyle sides like squash casserole, collard greens, or macaroni and cheese. The menu also includes fried fish, scallops, and oysters, all sourced fresh. Expect a wait during peak hours, as its no-frills vibe draws crowds for its consistent quality.

Unlike trendier spots, O’Steen’s focuses on simplicity, letting the seafood shine. Finish with coconut cream or key lime pie. Its nostalgic charm makes it a cornerstone for the best seafood in St. Augustine.

The Reef

Perched along North Beach, The Reef offers oceanfront dining with Atlantic waves as a backdrop. Run by the Usina family, this upscale yet approachable restaurant features large windows and a pet-friendly patio, connecting diners to the sea. Chef Denzel Aponte’s menu includes shrimp and grits with dital peppers, seafood stew with clams and mussels, or crab-stuffed flounder. The raw bar serves fresh oysters and shrimp cocktails, while happy hour offers discounted appetizers. Unlike downtown spots, its beachside location provides tranquility and ample parking. Perfect for date nights or family dinners, The Reef’s scenic beauty and refined flavors make it a top pick for seafood lovers.

Seafood Kitchen of St Augustine

Since 1995, Seafood Kitchen has been a family-friendly staple for hearty seafood. Its broad menu features grilled flounder, blackened mahi, coconut shrimp, and crab legs, paired with homemade sides like broccoli salad or baked beans. Daily fresh fish ensures quality, while early bird specials and a kids’ menu add value. The relaxed patio with nautical decor creates a welcoming post-beach vibe.

Unlike fine-dining venues, Seafood Kitchen prioritizes generous portions and affordability. Try the seafood platter for fried favorites or stuffed shrimp for decadence. Its consistent service and longevity make it a reliable choice for coastal dining.

Elevate Your Seafood Experience with St Augustine Sailing

While St. Augustine’s restaurants offer incredible seafood, nothing compares to dining aboard a luxurious yacht with St. Augustine Sailing. Our Dinner Cruises feature a 4-course menu crafted by private chefs, showcasing the best seafood in St. Augustine—think succulent shrimp, seared scallops, or flaky fish. As you sail past the Castillo de San Marcos and Bridge of Lions, the city’s twinkling lights reflect on the water, creating a magical ambiance. Attentive servers, premium wine pairings, and customizable menus ensure perfection.

For a refined experience, our Sunset Tasting Cruise delivers a 5-course menu (changes seasonally) of the best seafood in St. Augustine aboard a spacious catamaran. Savor dishes like crab tartlets, zesty ceviche, or buttery lobster medallions, each paired with 3-ounce pours of premium wines curated by sommelier Alayna Brewer. Glide by the St. Augustine Lighthouse or spot dolphins while indulging in gourmet creations. The intimate, limited-seating setting is perfect for anniversaries or romantic escapes.

Our chefs, Wesley Nogueira of Khloe’s Kitchen and James “Jay” Phelan of J. William Culinary, elevate every dish. Wesley’s Filipino-Brazilian roots inspire adobo-spiced fish or Brazilian moqueca, while Jay’s fine-dining expertise shines in herb-crusted grouper or citrus-glazed salmon. Using fresh, local ingredients, they craft seafood that celebrates St. Augustine’s coastal bounty.

Unlike restaurant dining, our cruises combine delectable seafood with the romance of sailing. Customize your menu for dietary needs—gluten-free, vegan, or seafood-focused—and enjoy exclusive seating. The historic bayfront, with seabirds and landmarks, creates a multi-sensory adventure. Whether for a milestone or a unique evening, St. Augustine Sailing offers an unmatched experience.

Ready to enjoy the best seafood in St. Augustine? Book your Dinner Cruises or Sunset Tasting Cruise with St. Augustine Sailing. Savor world-class seafood, fine wines, and Florida’s historic coast for an unforgettable night … or two!