story: Stephanie Showalter
photo: Han Tak
Nestled in the woods along the banks of the intracoastal is a true Florida fish camp that is more than meets the eye. Located in Vilano Beach, this site has had a restaurant and dock since 1946. After several owners and a name change, Bernard de Raad and his wife took ownership in 1999 and slowly began making Cap’s what it is today.
De Raad is originally from the Netherlands while his wife is a native of Florida. After living overseas the two decided to settle in Saint Augustine. The two fell in love with Cap’s and de Raad decided to lose his antique importing business to run Cap’s full time. Although he had never owned a restaurant, he came from a family that owned a large bakery business with a wholesale trade and brought this experience and knowledge to the table.
Although the menu was good when he took over, de Raad wanted to update the entrees and add his own ideas. The result is a menu that is eclectic with influences from around the world and around the country. Fried shrimp lovers can order this local favorite, knowing that the shrimp was sourced locally out of Mayport. But, for those looking for something a bit different, there are so many more choices.
Chefs Melody Stewart (formally of Collage) and Ryan Meharg along with de Raad are responsible for menu selections. New dishes often incorporate flavors that one of the three experienced on a recent trip. The restaurant offers weekly specials that highlight seasonal ingredients along with a regular extensive menu. Cap’s goes out of its way to address the dietary and health needs of its clientele. There is always a vegetarian offering as part of the weekly specials. In addition the restaurant will soon be offering a separate menu with only gluten-free appetizers, entrees and desserts. There are also gluten-free selections for children, as well.
The restaurant’s setting and layout makes it unique and memorable. Cap’s is divided up into small “restaurants within a restaurant.” A large elegant bar provides a wide variety of beverage choices. Nearby are tables for inside adults-only dining that is perfect for an initimate evening.
Outside is a large expansive deck with a connected dock that runs along the intracoastal. Trees pop up through the deck offering shade and character. Tables are strategically placed for a perfect view. Seating is available for parties of almost every size. Cap’s can seat tables of 12; however, they do not take reservations so larger parties may have to wait for seating. There is even a large cedar tree along the bank where children can play. Around the side of the building is a fun and eclectic oyster bar with barside seating as well as table service.
As a true lover of wine, de Raad has made building an expansive and competitively priced wine list a priority. Cap’s currently offers 450 bottles and has won awards from Wine Spectator over the last six years. This has made the restaurant a true wine destination. Soon, the wine list will be available through the use of iPads, a first for the area.
So, when you are ready for a wonderful dinner in a casual yet elegant location, make sure you head to Vilano Beach and turn at the castle. You can’t miss it. And remember, the sunsets are always free and fantastic.
Cap’s on the Water, 4325 Myrtle Street, 904.824.8794; capsonthewater.com
