The Best Cigar Bar in St. Augustine, FL

I feel the need to highlight what I believe is the best cigar bar in St. Augustine, FL. It’s called, “Isabela’s Bar Cuba,” a cigar bar offering much, much more than cigars. It’s located in the heart of the historic section of St. Augustine in one of the many beautifully restored buildings on Cuna Street.

First Visit at Isabela’s Cigar Bar in St. Augustine

I remember our first visit to Isabela’s. It was 7 years ago. My husband is a cigar fan. Even though I don’t partake of cigars, I don’t mind visiting a cigar bar if there is a nice glass of Chardonnay for me! We walked up the front steps and through the front door of Isabela’s establishment. We experienced a step back in time with the tinkling of a bell as we opened the door. Then the visual experience began. What I mean is that it was like entering an antique shop…a collage of history.

This is because it’s Isabela’s history. Isabela is the proprietor. She was born in Cuba and was raised on a tobacco farm where they hand-rolled their cigars. She eventually made her way to St. Augustine, FL. Her business in St. Augustine began in 1983 with her creations of wearable art; she is a Master Seamstress. Therefore, her business also includes fashion to purchase along with vast array of specialty cigars. It’s fascinating to walk through the house! In fact, each and every visit we see something new, even though it’s probably occupied the house for ages.

Sangria at the Cigar Bar

In addition to offering a large variety of wine, port, and beer, Isabela’s also makes a killer Sangria!! It’s made with fresh fruit sliced up and combined with their homemade mixed Sangria. My hubby and I have spent hours sitting on the front porch with a glass of Chardonnay or Sangria in hand simply watching the endless stream of people strolling by. So relaxing!

Images by Penny Walker via https://www.pennyspleasures.com

Not Your Average Cigar Bar

Isabela’s Bar Cuba at http://www.isabelasbarcuba.com also sells cigar cutters, unusual lighters (yes, we bought one of the lighters), humidors, t-shirts, hats and so much more. Feel up for a game of dominos? Oftentimes, there is a game in progress. In addition, Bar Cuba can serve up a delicious cup of coffee in true Spanish style…with a Chorreador. This is a coffee making device in which hot water leaches through coffee grounds held in a cloth filter mounted onto a wooden stand. It is so cool to watch this process! Occasionally they have live music at night, which makes visiting extra remarkable. Finally, you can order a beer or a glass of wine and BINGO…you get a free cigar!

On a Final Note

Please, do yourself a favor and visit Bar Cuba. If you don’t want a cigar or a glass of fruity Sangria? Treat yourself by just coming in and soaking up the ambiance, the history, the relaxed atmosphere. Better yet, just come to see Isabela. She is the key to making this “the best cigar bar in St. Augustine, FL!” She will make you feel like family. She truly welcomes you into her home. Undoubtedly, Isabela will make you want to come back to St. Augustine and Bar Cuba…again and again and again.

Budget Ideas for a Wedding in St. Augustine, FL

Provided below are ideas for a budget wedding in St. Augustine, FL. We decided to have a destination wedding in magnificent St. Augustine because it has that wonderful old world charm. It is the oldest city in the United States. Because of all of this, it is also a popular location for weddings. There are plenty of choices for ceremonies, but we knew we had to keep expenses down. Therefore, here is the route we chose for a lovely, low cost ceremony.

1. The Budget Wedding Setting

We are Penny and Weldon Walker. This marriage was not the first for both of us. With this in mind, we opted for a special budget wedding. Yet, I wanted to make the union and the whole experience exceptional. I researched several venues in Florida (we live in Sarasota, FL) and nothing could beat the cost of a union at Casa de Solana Bed and Breakfast (http://www.casadesolanabedandbreakfast.com) in St. Augustine, FL. A “Back to Basics Ceremony Only” even at this time (February 2020) is still just $299.00. This package is for the wedding couple only, but Casa de Solana offers several different wedding ceremony options. They provided us with a licensed officiate, a bottle of champagne, and they decorated the courtyard garden for us for our ceremony. This was all included in the cost. We didn’t have to lift a finger! The setting was…and still is, BEAUTIFUL!

2. Budget Wedding Flowers

Along with keeping the venue cost down, I wanted the floral arrangements to be within budget. In our case, we didn’t require a lot of flowers because the courtyard area was decorated so beautifully. As you can see from the photo above, I chose a very simple, yet elegant wedding bouquet. Apart from all of this, I just wasn’t familiar with floral providers in St. Augustine. Without having to strain my brain, I chose PUBLIX! That beautiful white rose bouquet was less than $20.00! Furthermore, I had a few white roses left over and the staff at Casa de Solana sprinkled the petals on the ground around the ceremony area. ..extraordinary last minute touch. This only added to the breathtaking setting.

3. Photography on a Budget

During our dating stage, my husband and I became very adept at taking “selfies.” Between our phones and a simple “point and shoot” camera, we produced quite a number of really awesome photos 0f our experience. HINT: if you simply ask people, they are usually very happy to lend a hand in taking your photos. We only had an hour within which to use the Casa de Solana courtyard. We managed to get in a few photos there. In addition to this, we got up the next morning, donned our wedding attire again, and traveled around spectacular St. Augustine to get even more photos. We went deeper into the historical area and even went out on the beach! At one point, my husband took a photograph of me in my dress, ankle deep in the ocean! It was a blast!

4. Wedding Meal

This decision didn’t take much thought. We didn’t have a traditional wedding party meal. It was just the two of us…so personal…so romantic. The wedding meal is where we splurged. I chose the restaurant Costa Brava at http://www.costabrava.com. Its located in The Casa Monica Resort and Spa (http://www.casamonica) in St. Augustine, FL . They seated us at the “Wedding Table.” Who cannot resist white linen table cloths, spectacular service and award winning food?

5. Budget Wedding Hotel

This also was not a difficult decision. We had stayed at The Cozy Inn in St. Augustine before. It is a family owned business. Therefore, they take immense pride in their property. It is spotless. It is an “Old Florida” experience. There are many options available for “the traveler.” We always choose one of the Deluxe Townhouses. It is an Upstairs/Downstairs experience. The living room and full kitchen are downstairs and king bedroom and bathroom with shower are upstairs. This layout is ideal, because you can cook meals (budget friendly) if you wish, watch TV both upstairs or downstairs and enjoy the luxury of a King bed with ample closet space upstairs. Additionally, The Cozy Inn (http://www.cozyinn.com) is one of the most affordable hotel accommodations in St. Augustine, FL. I will reiterate that this property is SPOTLESS!

Final Note

On a final note, are you searching for a budget wedding? Check out Casa de Solana in beautiful St. Augustine, FL . The setting is elegant, romantic, private and stress free! There are numerous packages from the “Back to Basics Ceremony” budget wedding we chose, to more elaborate ceremonies.

Whatever you choose for your special moment, remember to have a delightful time, try to keep it stress free, and enjoy the celebration of love.

Please, please…don’t ever hesitate to contact me with any questions or other suggestions for a beautiful budget wedding in St. Augustine, FL. We are very knowledgeable in that area. Joyful Journeys!!

4 Essential Fine Dining Restaurants in St. Augustine

My husband and I go back to the city we were married in for our anniversary every year: SPECTACULAR St. Augustine, Florida. It is a beautiful city filled with history, charm and class. Consequently, we splurge on our wedding date dinner. In addition, we enjoy venturing into fine dining restaurants unknown to us. We have that sense of “joie de vivre.” We are willing to take a chance on something new. Due to the experiences we’ve had, hopefully we can assist you in finding that special place for your fine dining experience.

Sentimental Favorite

COSTA BRAVA

Costa Brava is special to us. It’s where we had our first celebratory meal after our marriage ceremony. It truly is a fine dining experience. You feel it when you walk in. Costa Brava does not disappoint. Along with fresh coastal cuisine, they have a dang “James Beard” featured chef! My husband adores the Grilled Lamb Chops. He orders them every time we dine there! Costa Brava at http://www.kesslercollection.com is located inside the elegant Casa Monica Resort and Spa. Make sure you secure your dinner reservations well ahead of time…this is a popular venue for weddings. In addition to a delectable dinner, Costa Brava serves breakfast and lunch.

Hidden Gem

OLD CITY HOUSE RESTAURANT

This fine dining spot was recommended by a good friend of ours from St. Augustine. The restaurant is located in the historic Old City House Inn; a delightful bed and breakfast. It’s quaint, quiet, and romantic. The cuisine is made to order with a variety of dishes. In addition, Old City House Restaurant at http://www.oldcityhouse.com has won Best Upscale Taste in St. Augustine for several years. I love their Crab Cake entrée!

Local Favorites in Fine Dining

MICHAEL’S

This restaurant has had an impeccable reputation for years. This is evident by numerous honors and accolades. We have eaten here twice and have enjoyed every morsel. I personally love the small plates and the variety of the menu. Michael’s at http://www.michaelssa.com fine dining menu changes seasonally, taking advantage of local sourcing. We like this! The menu centers around steaks, seafood and Coastal Spanish cuisine. In addition, they are touted for their world-class wines…oohhhh yeaaa!!!

THE RAINTREE RESTAURANT

Images by Penny Walker via https://www.pennyspleasures.com

The Raintree Restaurant at http://www.raintreerestaurant.com may not be considered a “fine dining” restaurant by definition. In fact, they describe themselves as a “casual” dining place. Nevertheless, in my opinion, this restaurant is exceptional. My husband and I walked into The Raintree after another restaurant had turned us away. That restaurant had overbooked even though we had a reservation. On the other hand, Raintree welcomed us with open arms! We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner with delicious flavors from around the world. The Raintree even included a beautiful anniversary card and a complimentary dessert. Keep in mind, we walked in with NO RESERVATION! It should be noted that this is our definition of a truly special restaurant.

Final Thought

Listed above is a peek at a few really special, fine dining restaurants in St. Augustine, FL. With this in mind, there are many more that we have not experienced. Consequently, please feel free to let us know of any other spectacular restaurants. We truly appreciate your opinion.

7 Awesome Picks for Casual Dining in St. Augustine, FL –

With restrictions (due to COVID 19) lifting in the state of Florida, what better place to consider traveling to than St. Augustine! The oldest city in the United States. Rich with history…romantic…and abundant with stunning vistas. To go along with all of this, outstanding restaurants and eateries! So instead of having to guess which casual dining establishments to choose from and possibly be disappointed, let us help you with a few we’ve been to and are very fond of.

Dessert First!

CHOCOLATTES

Why not start with dessert first? We’re gonna go out on a limb and say that these are possibly some of the most exquisite goodies we’ve ever sunk our senses into! One example is the Reese’s Peanut Butter cake; it’s a flavor explosion! Apart from this, they are well known for their “craft coffees” and spectacular teas. ChocoLattes at http://www.chocolattes.com also serves breakfast and lunch.

HYPPO GOURMET ICE POPS

When I first heard of this place, I said to myself, “Why all the hype over a popsicle?” Then we went and haven’t stopped going back. They magically create delectable ice pops with only all natural ingredients and fresh fruits. Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops at http://www.thehyppo.com have their “stand by” flavors, like Strawberry Cheesecake…YUMMO while also serving up some seasonal pops, like Pumpkin Cheesecake…one of my favorites!

Local Favorites for Casual Dining

WHITE LION BAR AND GRILL

We usually hit St. Augustine during football season. Therefore, it’s been necessary that we find an eatery where we can also watch the games on TV. White Lion Bar and Grill at http://www.whitelion.bar offers this and much more. They have live music, both inside and outside seating, darts and billiards. They serve traditional bar food, craft beers and they have a full bar. It has a fun, party vibe! It is the epitome of casual dining. Don’t be surprised if you see a few pirates hanging out here!

THE FLORIDIAN

We admire The Floridian because they support local growers and producers; this is so important in this day and age. But, above all, we love The Floridian at http://www.thefloridianstaug.com simply because they serve up some delicious cuisine in a casual dining atmosphere! The dishes range between “Southern Comfort” foods and lighter, healthier fare. They serve both lunch and dinner and have an awesome option called, “The Supper Club Take-Out”…choose a protein and 3 sides and this will easily feed 2 people. Nice choice at a nice price!

Most Unique Setting for Casual Dining

CAFE’ ALCAZAR

What an unusual and imaginative place for a restaurant!  Cafe’ Alcazar at http://www.cafealcazar.com is located in the Lightner Museum.  In 1889, this building was originally built by Henry Flagler as the Alcazar Hotel.  Cafe’ Alcazar, a lunch hot spot, used to be the indoor swimming pool in the Alcazar Hotel!  We loved the Hummus Platter and Cafe’ Alcazar is just as imaginative with the rest of their menu.  As well as all of the above, they also follow the practice of local, organic sourcing.

Casual Dining “Tweaked”

PROHIBITION KITCHEN

This place is hot, it’s retro, and it’s jumpin! Prohibition Kitchen at http://www.prohibitionkitchen.com is located right on St. George street, so it’s pretty packed all the time. The vibe is 1920’s style speakeasy. The menu is bold with that “Down South” base, but they always seem to make it their own with items like: Blue Crab Hush Puppies, or Wahoo & Grits. Furthermore, they also have a lot of vegetarian options and a kid’s menu. Prohibition Kitchen has live entertainment frequently. Hint: if you don’t have a large party, try to attempt to secure a place at the bar; you won’t have to wait to be seated and can enjoy your meal right there.

MOJO’S BBQ – OLD CITY

A barbeque joint ripe with the blues. This place offers different styles of barbeque from around the USA with the MOJO flair! Additionally, they have a huge selection of whiskey and bourbon. Moreover, all of their meats are smoked in-house and their sides are homemade. Mojo’s Barbeque at http://mojobbq.com simply offers up that good ol’ Southern cuisine and hospitality.

Wrap It Up!

Let’s wrap up these picks of casual dining establishments by stating, nobody gets a charge out of walking into a restaurant, making that food selection, and then paying for a mediocre meal. Want to ensure you’re getting a food experience you will savor? For this result, I just handed over some delectable options! Hope you enJOY!