Columbia

History and tradition meet award-winning cuisine at Columbia. Located in St. Augustine's historic district, this is a restaurant you don't want to skip. It is arguably the most stunning restaurant in all of St. Augustine! The architecture and decor is best described as traditional, warm, and elegant. Their story began over 100 years ago in Ybor City, Florida.

The Beginning

At first, Columbia was a small cafe known for their authentic Cuban coffee and sandwiches - founded and run by Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. After Prohibition began, Hernandez had to pivot his business plan to stay open. He and the owner of the restaurant next door decided to merge their businesses. Due to this expansion, they were able to keep their businesses open. After Hernandez Sr. passed away, his son Casimiro Hernandez Jr. took over the restaurant.

Casimiro Jr. dreamt of a restaurant that exceeded the normal standard back in the day. He envisioned music, air conditioning, dancing, and more. Through his hard work and leap of faith, he was able to bring his dream to life. After this renovation, Columbia was renamed the Don Quixote Room.

Years later, Ybor City had started to become a ghost town. Due to the closing of cigar factories and job losses, many families moved to other cities. In short, the city began to empty and decay. Casimiro Jr.'s son-in-law Casey knew that in order to keep the restaurant alive, they needed to pivot their business once again.

That is where the entertainment aspect was born. They built a performance room and invited world-class performers to their restaurant - it worked! Even today, they continue the tradition and have Spanish Flamenco dancers perform nightly except Sundays. (Tampa location)

Columbia Today

Over 115 years and 5 generations later, Columbia still remains in the family. The original restaurant in Tampa is considered Florida's Oldest Restaurant. Additionally, the original restaurant is the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. They have expanded throughout Florida and now boast 5 locations and 2 additional cafes.

The Food

Columbia serves award-winning Spanish and Cuban fusion cuisine. The 10 page dinner menu, modeled after a classic newspaper, boasts a fine selection of traditional dishes.

What's dinner without a good cocktail? If you're in a group, we recommend a mojito pitcher. Otherwise, you should try the Tango Mango or Margarita Garrafon.

Our Recommendations for Best Dishes at Columbia

The "Tapeo" Sampler

If you're just visiting Florida, chances are you won't get to come to Columbia too often. For this reason, we recommend the "Tapeo" sampler to start off your meal. This sharable is perfect for 3-4 people and it allows you to try a little bit of everything. In total, you will receive your choice of 3 tapas. This starter costs $34-38 which is on the steep side, but how many chances will you get to try their award winning food?

Chicken and Yellow Rice "Valenciana"

This is one of Columbia's signature dishes. It takes a little bit longer to prepare than other entrees, but you will be handsomely rewarded for your patience. This dish comes with one half bone-in chicken with green peppers, Spanish onions, tomato, smoked ham, hearts of artichoke, garlic, and olive oil. Then, it all gets baked in a casserole with La Bomba Spanish rice. Finally, it is topped with white wine, green peas, and red pimentos. *Chef's Kiss*