New Italian-Themed Restaurant ‘Saint’ Opening This Fall in St. Augustine

Exciting New Culinary Destination

The restaurateurs behind River & Post and River & Fort are expanding their culinary footprint with an Italian-themed restaurant named 'Saint' to open this October in St. Augustine. Situated at 44 Avenida Menendez, this ambitious project reflects a significant investment of over $6 million and is currently about 60% complete. The new restaurant will substantially add to the city's dining scene, offering a unique blend of Italian cuisine with a local twist.

A Blend of History and Modernity

Saint is designed to incorporate one of St. Augustine's oldest buildings, previously a real estate office owned by John Arbizzani. The building's historic significance means that every construction step requires approval from the St. Augustine Historic Architectural Review Board, adding complexity to the project. Despite these challenges, the team is dedicated to preserving the building's historic charm while modernizing it for a new purpose.

Dining Experience and Ambiance

Spanning approximately 12,000 square feet on a 0.32-acre site, Saint will feature multiple dining areas, including indoor seating, rooftop dining, and a courtyard. With a capacity of about 400 guests, it will cater to various dining preferences, from upscale casual to more relaxed settings. The restaurant will also include bars on the rooftop and main floor and a private dining area for exclusive events.

Culinary Offerings

The menu at Saint promises to fill a gap in the local culinary landscape by focusing on Italian cuisine, complemented by steaks and seafood. The goal is to create a dining experience that is both special and accessible, catering to both planned nights out and spontaneous visits from tourists exploring the historic city.

Strategic Leadership

Chef Derrick Haggerty and General Manager Ted Hayes, both of whom are transferring from River & Fort, will lead the operational team at Saint. Their proven track record and established working relationship with the owners are expected to ensure a smooth opening and consistent quality of service.

Challenges and Opportunities

Constructing a new restaurant in St. Augustine's historic district comes with its own set of logistical challenges, such as limited street access and the need for frequent regulatory approvals. However, the team is optimistic about meeting the October opening deadline to capitalize on the busy holiday season and the famous Night of Lights event, significantly boosting local restaurant traffic.

Community Impact

The opening of Saint is anticipated to create substantial local employment opportunities, with plans to hire between 150 and 175 staff members. The restaurant aims to become a notable destination in St. Augustine, enhancing the city's reputation as a historic and romantic dining locale.

The introduction of Saint to St. Augustine's dining scene marks an exciting development for locals and visitors. With a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, the restaurant is poised to offer a unique and memorable dining experience. As the team works through the final stages of construction, anticipation builds for its grand opening this fall.

My Final Thoughts

The upcoming launch of Saint is a significant addition to St. Augustine's culinary landscape. Its strategic location, historic significance, and diverse dining options are set to make it a popular destination. The team's expertise behind River & Post and River & Fort ensures that the restaurant will deliver high-quality food and service. This project not only promises to enrich the local dining experience but also contributes to the economic and cultural vibrancy of the area. The challenges faced in the construction process highlight the dedication to preserving the historic essence of the location while offering a modern dining experience.

The Jacksonville Business Journal lists Tridence as a top Digital & Marketing Agency. Contact Tridence.com for better SEO ranking, Digital solutions, and web design needs—your Local digital company.