St. Augustine is a city with history, charm, and plenty of spots to explore. Our recent trip was packed with all the must-see attractions—starting with a walk through the historic Fountain of Youth, followed by some shopping in the quaint local shops, and a visit at sunset to the iconic Castillo de San Marcos, where we marveled at the old fort by the river. By the end of the day, we were hot, tired, and ready to unwind. Little did we know that our day was about to get even better by stumbling across a restaurant called The Ice Plant.
A Chance Find: The Ice Plant
As we made our way back to our VRBO nestled in the heart of downtown St. Augustine, we stumbled upon a hidden gem that we hadn’t planned on—The Ice Plant. Located at 110 Riberia Street, this place is more than just a restaurant; it’s a step back in time.
The Ice Plant is housed in a building that dates back to the 1920s, originally serving as—you guessed it—an ice plant. They’ve kept much of the original charm, with vintage decor, exposed brick walls, and an industrial-chic vibe that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back to the Prohibition era. Even the ice used in their drinks is crafted in-house, cut from large blocks, just as they did nearly a century ago. Talk about a commitment to authenticity!
The Vibe: A Perfect Blend of History and Modern Comfort
Walking into the Ice Plant, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere. The high ceilings, original pulley system, and repurposed wooden furniture add to the rustic feel, while the bustling bar and friendly staff make it clear that this is a place where you can kick back and relax. Whether you’re here for a drink, a meal, or both, the vibe is spot on—casual yet refined, with a nod to history that doesn’t feel stuffy.
The Food: Local Flavors with a Creative Twist
Now, let’s talk about the food—because, honestly, it’s what really made our day.
I was trying hard to decide between the pork belly sliders or the local shrimp on toast. I was still so hot from our day that the shrimp won out, which was as fresh as you’d expect from a coastal town like St. Augustine. The shrimp were perfectly seasoned and served on sourdough with hummus and a lemon sauce, creating a delightful contrast in textures that made every bite satisfying.
One of my sister-in-laws opted for the fried chicken with gravy and collard greens—a classic Southern dish that The Ice Plant has perfected. The chicken was crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and the gravy was rich and flavorful. Paired with the collard greens, it was Southern comfort food at its finest.
My other sister-in-law went with the fish of the day, a local catch that was cooked to perfection. It was light, flaky, and accompanied by a side that complemented the dish without overpowering it.
The kids, on the other hand, dove into fried chicken and hoecakes—a dish that kept them quiet (which, let’s be honest, is the ultimate compliment when dining out with kiddos). The hoecakes were a nice touch, adding a bit of sweetness to the meal that balanced the savory chicken.
The Drinks: Craft Cocktails with a Story
Of course, no visit to The Ice Plant would be complete without trying one of their famous craft cocktails. They have an extensive list of creative beverages, each with a story behind it. Whether you’re into classic cocktails or something a bit more adventurous, there’s something for everyone.
We decided to share the punch bowl—a refreshing, grapefruity Aperol wine drink that was perfect for cooling off after a long day in the sun. It was light, flavorful, and came with lots of, you guessed it, ICE. We ladled the drink out of a crystal punch bowl and drank out of tea cups. It was just what we needed to end our day on a high note.
The kids, meanwhile, got to enjoy something special as well. The Ice Plant offers made-from-scratch Coca-Colas—or their own version of a Coke. The kids loved the rich, authentic taste, and it was a fun twist on the usual soda.
A Must-Visit in St. Augustine
If you find yourself in St. Augustine, make sure to add The Ice Plant to your itinerary. Whether you’re winding down after a day of exploring or just looking for a unique dining experience, this place is a must-visit. The combination of history, ambiance, and top-notch food and drinks makes it a standout spot in a city full of great places to eat and drink.
For more information, check out their website at iceplantbar.com, and be sure to follow them on social media for the latest updates:
- Instagram: @iceplantbar
- Facebook: Ice Plant Bar
St. Augustine has so much to offer, but finding The Ice Plant was like discovering a little piece of history that’s still alive and thriving—just waiting for you to enjoy it.
