Dinner & Show: 5 Hidden Gem Restaurants In St. Augustine

Sand colored bar chairs line bar with bottles displayed on wall behind

Are you celebrating a birthday, anniversary, friendship or love? Join us for a special evening at the Magic Hideaway – a luxury magic show inside the Casa Monica Resort and Spa, with world renown entertainer Bill Abbott.

Dining before or after the show completes the evening and whether you’re a local wanting to discover fresh dining gems or a visitor craving an authentic taste of St. Augustine, this guide is your key to extraordinary culinary experiences before or after your show at the Magic Hideaway.

We’ve handpicked our favorite five exceptional restaurants within the downtown historic district—all within a leisurely walk to the show—perfect for a seamless evening of dinner and entertainment.

Dinner & show is an unforgettable, lavish show experience that will make your evening truly magical.

These five restaurants offer not only exceptional cuisine, but also the charm of St. Augustine’s historic streets—each one within a short leisurely walk to your evening entertainment. Perfect for a date night that flows effortlessly from dinner to show.

5 BEST RESTAURANTS IN ST. AUGUSTINE'S DOWNTOWN HISTORIC DISTRICT

#1. Cordova coastal chophouse

Velvet tables and chairs in a gold leaf painted room at the Cordova, St. Augustine

Modern Steakhouse Elegance in a Historic Setting

Located within the iconic Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Cordova Coastal Chophouse offers an intimate dining experience inspired by Spanish and Moroccan influences. The atmosphere is rich with curated art, a sophisticated wine selection, and impeccable service.

Splurge on the prime filet, served with the house’s signature steak sauce—it’s a standout. Pair it with elevated sides like crispy smashed potatoes (a must), foraged wild mushrooms, or charred broccolini. Their wine list is among the finest in town, and we often let our knowledgeable server choose based on what we are dining on, making this a top choice for both visitors and locals in the know.

A perfect start to an indulgent evening, just steps away from the show Magic Hideaway inside the Casa Monica Resort and Spa.

#2. Old City House Inn & Restaurant

Timeless Charm with Chef-Driven Fare

Tucked inside a beautifully restored 19th-century inn, Old City House is a hidden gem where historic ambiance meets gourmet cuisine. The menu features refined takes on classics, with locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients. Dine in the romantic courtyard or elegant dining room (it is very cozy)—both perfect for an unhurried, intimate evening. Their service is exceptional!

#3. La Nouvelle

Orange mousse filled desert on a white dish and marble table at La Nouvelle, St. Augustine

French-Inspired Fine Dining in a Boutique Setting

La Nouvelle offers an elevated French dining experience in a warm, modern space with an open kitchen concept. Expect impeccable plating, artfully balanced flavors, and attentive service. Dishes change seasonally, but the duck confit and house-made pâté are local favorites. We celebrate many birthdays here and always order the orange mousse to share. A must for those who appreciate culinary craftsmanship with European flair.

#4. The Drunken Horse

Cozy Wine Bar with Parisian Soul

This charming wine bar on Charlotte Street brings effortless and exquisite European style to St. Augustine. The Drunken Horse serves elegant french tapas and boutique wines by the glass in a cozy, candlelit setting. It’s intimate, relaxed, and ideal for conversation over a bottle before strolling to your show. The patio is intimate, food delicate and delicious and their service perfectly personable. 

#5. Collage Restaurant

Romantic Dining with an Eclectic Twist

Regularly ranked among the best restaurants in St. Augustine, Collage offers globally inspired cuisine with a fine-dining edge. With its soft lighting, richly appointed interiors, and standout dishes like lobster ravioli and beef tenderloin, it’s a destination for romance and celebration. The extensive wine list and impeccable service seal the deal. We love the rustic vibe and thoughtfulness in each dish. 

A stunning dining experience is excitingly paired with an unforgettable evening at the Magic Hideaway. 

gold coins in wooden box being held by hands.

DINNER AND A SHOW - THE MAGIC HIDEAWAY EXPERIENCE

An Enchanting show experience to an Unforgettable Evening

Before or after indulging in dinner at one of St. Augustine’s hidden culinary gems, elevate your evening with a truly captivating performance at The Magic Hideaway—a luxurious, speakeasy-style experience unlike anything else in the city.

Tucked within the historic Casa Monica Resort & Spa, this intimate theater sets the stage for an evening of wonder, illusion, and elegance. World-renowned magician Bill Abbott brings mind-bending magic and masterful sleight of hand to center stage, with a personal touch that makes every guest feel like part of the show. The experience is both grand and personal.

Show Details:

  • When: Saturday evenings, at 6:00 p.m. and 8:30pm (during busy season)
Where: Casa Monica Resort & Spa, 95 Cordova Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Parking: Valet parking is available for $25. Guests dining at Cordova Coastal Chophouse enjoy a reduced valet rate of $5.
What’s Included:
    * A complimentary welcome cocktail
    * Table-side magic
    * Pre-show sleight-of-hand entertainment
    * The main performance in an intimate, stunning showroom
    * A post-show meet-and-greet with Bill Abbott for photos and autographs
    Dress Code: While formal attire isn’t required, most guests embrace the occasion with cocktail or business casual wear.
    Audience: Appropriate for guests of all ages, minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Due to the exclusive nature of the experience and limited seating in the intimate venue, advance reservations are highly recommended.
Secure your spot for an unforgettable night of wonder:

woman in black sequence dress and man in blue tuxedo smiling

We’re Bill and Rebecca Abbott, and we’re excited to share our personal favorite St. Augustine discoveries – from unforgettable dining and entertainment to the hidden gems that make this city magical. 

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About Bill Abbott

Bill Abbott is an entrepreneur, magician and most of all a showman. Recently named Canadian Magician of the Year by the Canadian Association of Magicians, Bill Abbott has performed over 5000 shows in 11 countries.

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