story by Stephanie Showalter & photography by Lucy Smith
The Floridian brings a culinary breath of fresh air to Saint Augustine and mixes it with a wonderful old Florida style that will make every diner feel right at home. Its vision was created by the three owners, recently married Jeff McNally and Genie Kepner McNally, and Tricia Mclemore. Together they have taken their vision and turned it into a very pleasing reality.
The restaurant is divided into three zones. Guests can sit outside and people-watch under canopy covered tables. This is perfect for evening dining when the sun is not so strong. The main dining room mixes charm and sixties quirky with a result that is visually appealing and sure to bring a smile. It is a throw back to an old beach house that has been lovingly filled with family castoffs after newer, more modern décor is required. Nothing really matches, and yet it all goes so well together. And, for a bit of cheek, they have cleverly suspended a row boat with its oars upside down on the ceiling.
The back room houses a separate bar called the County Line. Those who choose to drink in the bar can order glasses of wine or draft beer. Restaurant diners can order bottles of beer and wine to drink at their table. The beers come from small Florida and regional microbreweries. A secluded back patio is available where bar patrons can relax outdoors and guests can wait while their table is readied.
The food is fresh and appealing. The menu mixes traditional Southern comfort food with lighter dishes. The chef goes out of his way to take an “old favorite” such as meatloaf and add a bit of the unexpected. The menu changes regularly to focus on sourcing locally available vegetables, poultry and fish. It is very important to the owners to support regional growers and suppliers as it has a direct effect on the area’s economy as well as a positive environmental impact. The current menu is available on their website as well as the Floridian’s sourcing and menu philosophy.
If you pop in for a quick lunch, don’t be surprised when later that afternoon you start thinking how nice it would be to go back for dinner. The owners and staff will be more than happy to see you again.
The Floridian, 39 Cordova St., 904.829.0655 “Innovative Southern fare for Omnivores, Herbivores and Locavores” thefloridianstaug.com.
