Otter’s on the Water to open at former Culinary Outfitters’ site in St. Augustine

A family-style, dog-friendly restaurant will open its doors at the former site of Culinary Outfitters, which recently announced its closure at the St. Augustine Shipyards. The restaurant will feature family-friendly waterfront dining.

Rob DeGennaro and son Britt, who live in Vilano Beach, signed a lease and planned to open Otter's on the Water in the second week of October, Rob DeGennaro said on Thursday. "We're coming in with a whole new concept," he said. 

He said that the casual waterfront restaurant would feature an extensive menu with "a little bit of everything," including burgers, salads, sandwiches, steaks, kinds of pasta, and lobster. 

There will also be menus for dogs. "We'll have a whole section where people can bring their pets," he said. 

The restaurant, located at 173 Shipyard Way in St. Augustine, will also feature live music, and space will be available for private events.

Otter's on the Water will be similar to Nervous Nellie's in Fort Myers Beach, which they developed and sold, Rob DeGennaro said. The family also owns Otter's Waterfront Eatery in Maine and has held several other restaurants. 

The team is hiring staff ― people can go to the building to apply, update the décor and launch a website and social media. 

Rob DeGennaro said it's one of the best locations in town. 

"Beautiful view out on the Water. You're next to the marina. People can come by boat if they'd like," he said.