TRAVEL
63 January/February 2020 StPeteLifeMag.com
One thing that makes St. Augustine so
attractive to me is the amazing dining
scene. A diverse array of excellent
where to go. Highly recommended for a
romantic evening is the award-winning
Michael’s Tasting Room with its extensive
wine selection and innovative dishes in a
casually elegant atmosphere. Michael’s
Tasting Room has received numerous
honors and national recognitions. Wine
Spectator awarded the wine list its Award
of Excellence for the 10th year in a row.
Chef Michael has also been recognized as
Best Chef of St. Augustine by several the
city’s publications.
Other recommended restaurants perfect
for couples (intimate, not loud) include
Old City House, Collage, and Catch 27. All
“St. Augustine experience.” One of my
favorite lunch spots is the Café Alcazar
(not open for dinner), located in the lower
level of the beautiful Lightner Museum.
Café Alcazar sits in what was once the
indoor pool of the Alcazar Hotel built in
1889 by Henry Flagler. Combine a visit to
lunch at the Café.
There are plenty of great drinking holes
in this college town, but in recent years
the level of sophistication has kicked up
a notch. Martini and craft cocktail bars
mix with jazz clubs, outdoor cafes and
European bistros.
St. Augustine harbors a strong cultural
scene with a diversity of talented artists.
The First Friday Art Walk has gained
“must-do” status for both residents and
visitors. What could be more romantic
than strolling the city’s historic streets,
perusing more than 20 galleries. You’ll
to handmade jewelry, ceramics, glass,
photography and sculpture. Galleries
districts. Parking is free at the San
Sebastian Winery on King Street where
you can hop aboard free Artwalk trolleys
from 6 to 9 p.m.
CLASSICALLY ROMANTIC
The St. Augustine Music Festival
features two weekends of live classical
music performances during the last
two weeks in June every year. Worldclass
musicians from the Jacksonville
Symphony Orchestra join internationally
known guest artists to perform in the
acoustically splendid St. Augustine
Cathedral Basilica. Concerts are free
with donations accepted. This year,
the festival is set for June 18-20 and
June 25-27 with concerts beginning at
7:30 pm. For more information, go to
staugustinemusicfestival.org
For information on St. Augustine, contact
St. Augustine Ponte Vedra and The
Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau,
29 Old Mission Ave., 800-653-2489
Above: Patio dining at Old City House.
Below: Tapas at Michael’s Tasting Room
Aviles Street
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