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Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine Reviews List

Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine

Family-owned and operated for over 100 years, Columbia has earned acclaim for its old-world charm and award-winning Spanish/Cuban cuisine and wine list. Join us for century-old family recipes like Paella "a la Valenciana," Filet Mignon "Columbia," and fresh seafood specialties. Don’t miss Columbia’s Original “1905” Salad®, prepared tableside with our delicious, freshly-made dressing, a 100-year-old family recipe of fresh garlic, oregano, wine vinegar and Spanish extra virgin olive oil. Be sure to sample a fine Spanish wine like Torres, Montecillo or Campillo. Relax in our courtyard or Mediterranean-style dining rooms, filled with hundreds of hand-painted tiles and Spanish-style fountains. We are a sister to the Columbia in Tampa's Ybor City, founded in 1905. Children's menu available. Open 365-days a year, including all holidays.
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387 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(387 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 387 reviews
5 stars
(179)
4 stars
(138)
3 stars
(36)
2 stars
(24)
1 star
(10)
Food 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Service 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Ambiance 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Noise Level
2.3 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • special occasion(195)
  • good for groups(166)
  • neighborhood gem(144)
  • fit for foodies(139)
  • great for lunch(130)
  • romantic(111)
Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine Reviews List
Review 1 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We arrived at 6:30 p.m. and were seated on the upper level. It took the server about 10 minutes to come to our table eventhough we were the only ones upstairs. I ordered red wine twice and each time the wine glass's base was dripping with wine. I had to use my napking to clean it. A person in our party oredred the "gazpacho" soup but t was nevers erved. The server apologize for "forgetting" the soup. This is totally unacceptable. I have eaten in almost all Columbia restaurant's and this was by far the worse service."
Dined on 5/15/2013
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Review 2 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

mother's day for my wife

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"overall the experience was good. The food was very good, and you get plenty of it. I am not sure if they dont have enough help in the kitchen, or what, but it took a fairly long time for our drinks and appetizer to arrive, and then a further longish wait for our meals. The food was good, but even on a busy night you shouldnt have to wait that long. I have been to the Bonefish Grill on many a busy night, and they were able to get our food to us in a reasonable amount of time. The waitress was cordial, but could have checked the table more. For the prices you pay at this restaurant, the service should be just as good as the food. I would go there again, but would hope that service would improve."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 3 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

repeat visit

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"been to St. Augustine location over 10 times now.. had a wonderful Mother's Dinner again!! Was really looking forward to the bread pudding as usual but, just couldn't save any room because all the other food was excellent and could not eat another bite!! ..had the paella de la valeciana ..excellent as always, Sangria of course..."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 4 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Amazing Mother's Day!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My dad & I took my mom for Mother's Day dinner. Our experience as always was great. Our waiter Farid was outstanding! Superb service."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 5 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Nice

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The Columbia was a nice experience. The mojito I has was really good. We had tapas and they were good, but a bit salty. I had the 1905 salad; way too much dressing. The lettuce was drowning in dressing, but the taste was nice. I ordered the 100th anniversary cake and was a bit disappointed. The strawberries on top were coated in a jelly which was unappealing sweet. I should have ordered the key lime pie. Unfortunately we were there for a early dinner on prom night, so we didn't get to see the courtyard area the restaurant is famous for. The server was quite nice, she was the right about of chatty and efficient."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 6 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

A miss this time

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We must have picked the night when everything that could have gone wrong did. To begin, the air conditioning wasn't working. Then we were seated on the third level that seemed to be about 15 degrees warmer than the other two even though none of the levels was at capacity. Then it took almost an hour for our dinner order to arrive. We had to flag someone down for more water and then only got a half glass. When dinner did arrive it was obvious that it had been sitting under a heat lamp for some time. The only redeeming thing was that the manager offered a 20% discount. This was the 2nd time in 5 visits that we've had issues so maybe it's time to give up on what used to be a local favorite."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 7 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

From coast to coast!!!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have dined from FL to NYC, Canada WA State,CA, and all points in between. THIS IS MY FAVORITE RESTAURANT BY FAR!!!!!
Atmosphere, food presentation & taste, service .....it's all superb !
"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, notable wine list, kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, late-night find, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 8 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Even though we reserved in advance, we were seated at the first table closest to the entrance, very exposed high traffic and noisy area. Others who arrived with no advance reservation received much better seating. Paella was salty, mushy and overpriced, avoid at all costs. Tapas were very good, bean cakes and chicken croquettes particularly, as was the Mahi entree with crab topping. The basic Sangria was watered down however the white Cava version with champagne was quite good - for just a dollar more. Server failed to explain Sangria options and make a recommendation. Overall, review would be much more positive had we received better seating, avoided the paella and selected the Cava Sangria from the beginning."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 9 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Muy Sabroso!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Our favorite restaurant out of several in St. Augustine. The food & service always exceeds our expectations! The Spanish cuisine is authentic and full of robsut flavors. We recomment the Arroz con Pollo "Valenciana". It is the one and only chicken and rice dish that matches the flavor of our Cuban Mama's recipie!
Great atmosphere for all occasions!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 10 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Mom's Day at Columbia _ St. Aug's

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A wonderful place for Mother"s Day celebration, they are very conscious of the occasion and make every Mother/Grandmother feel very special.
Reservations are a must for this day!!
Ambiance is great, the food with a great Cuban bend is just excellent w nice selections. The 1905 salad is a must starter (splitting one is plenty sufficient when enjoying entrees as well),
The decor is just perfect.
The location in ole St. Augustine is a perfect setting, parking can be a challenge (especially on special wkends), they do validate for parking at the lot right behind the restaurant but it can reach the full level but don't let that discourage you from this treat.
"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, special occasion
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Review 11 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Columbia Mother's Day

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our first visit to Columbia--Food was fantastic--There were several large groups because it was Mother's Day. Everyone was served in a timely manner. We were surprised at how nice our table for two on the aisle ended up being--we anticipated it would be extra noisy and people bumping into us--but that was not a factor. The aisles are large enough to accommodate crowds and the noise level really was not a factor. Great experience and absolutely fantastic food."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 12 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Columbia Dinning Mother's Day

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was our first time at the St. Augustine restaurant. Our table was in a corner, which made it nice for conversation. Our salad was excellent (1905), our food was excellent, service was good. Our server did mix up one order, quickly fixed his mistake and offered another beer free. We had desert, the bread pudding was to die for and so was the key lime pie. The only negative was the A/C was not working properly, the server lowered the lighting which helped. He explained they had been working on the A/C all week. Oh well just more cold sangria to keep cool. Small fans in certain areas would have helped to move the air. Would I go back again, yes I would. I've now been to all of the locations and have enjoyed each one."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 13 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I was expecting better

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The air conditioning broke so the dining room was about 85 degrees, very warm.
Sangria was watered down red wine. Each glass had thin orange wedge & maraschino cherry.
Devil Crab Croquettes were good, but not served with Columbia hot sauce like menu says.
Server actually handed a hot plate across the table! He had a pot holder, I did not.
Two plates w/ same food were different sizes. I had 4 small shrimp for my entree. Asked server if correct &he said portion was 6 ounces. Shrimp were size of a quarter, 4 were not 6 ounces. Our sauces had a film on top, meaning that had congealed because they sat for a while.
I think we had a lazy staff &the restaurant charges too much to short change the customers on shrimp and sauces."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 14 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love This Place!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I enjoy going to the Columbia for special occasions. I've been there several times and always have something different. I picked the Eggplant dish this time. I expected a Spanish twist to it but it was basically an eggplant dish with cheese on it. Way too boring for the restaurant and I will not choose it again. However, I can't wait to go back again for the delicious '1905' Salad, Cuban bread, and an entrée that will reset my taste buds."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: romantic, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 15 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Service needs improvement

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Although the food was very good, the service was rushed and off-kilter.
After being seated, we were rushed to place drink orders, and then were kept waiting 30 minutes for the next step. Too much time is spent by the wait staff unnecessarily preparing table-side dishes, including salad and sangria. Our wine bottle was completely poured into glasses before being served, and without presenting the bottle. One of the wine glasses was badly cracked. The food was brought out by someone with no idea of the dishes nor who had ordered them, creating unnecessary confusion.
"
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 16 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

always good

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 3/16/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have been here many times and always enjoyed it...great food and sangria...moderately priced..nice atmosphere.."
Dined on 3/16/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 17 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Slow service and Dried Out Food

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The title says it all, but one example was the stuffed Pompano with a wine butter sauce in parchment. No sauce, just a fish that was so overcooked it was extremely firm, not flaky; so dried out the parchment paper had burnt in half. Two people ordered that and it was the same for both. Two others ordered another type of fish entree, both overcooked. One person ordered a steak medium, it came well done. Not only was the food not worth the price it took almost 45 minutes to receive our food. We knew the pompano took awhile, but that was excessive."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 18 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Oh my goodness

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have never been so annoyed or irritated during a dining experience. The air was not working downstairs and when asked about it, received multiple different reasons. When people started lifting the windows for air, although it may have been restaurant policy to keep them closed they were met with the same annoyance by the staff. Waiter forgot to write down the order and then came back to ask what did we order. Placed bread directly on table. The guy "acting" like a manager was not helpful and when he did ask how was everything, I said not good and he walked off. If it hadn't been for Mother's Day weekend and my mother not too upset, I would have lit into him. Congratulations, I will never be back to Columbias in St.Augustine."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 19 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great for our ladies lunch!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Brought my mom and sisters. We all loved it from the bread to the decor to the fabulous table side made sangria! We'll make it a tradition every year we visit."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch
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Review 20 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Columbia Never Disappoints

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food, friendly service. Get the 1905 salad.. it rocks! We've been there dozens of times and it never disappoints."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 21 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

It wasnt very good

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"the food was okay. The service was awful. The wait staff were passing over our heads with their trays, felt like we had to duck."
Dined on 5/05/2013
+1point
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Review 22 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

this is not first visit here.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"we always enjoy our visit. by the way we are from tampa. used you for lunch and dinner down there."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 23 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

So good.

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I went to college in St. Augustine and visited The Columbia several times while I lived there and it has never let me down. This time I brought my boyfriend and we both loved everything. The paella was just as I remember----so delicious and full of flavor. I had to order the 1905 salad-it's the best salad I've ever had. My boyfriend got a steak dish that comes with fries or rice and plantains and he really enjoyed it. We shared the white chocolate bread pudding and it was AMAZING. I'm not sure where we had room for it but we ate some and it was outstanding! I will always make room for The Columbia! Definitely worth your wait if you have to wait! The Sangria is always excellent too."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 24 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Always enjoy our evenings at the Columbia. We meet friends there for a good meal and hearty conversations."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 25 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Horrible!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was great as always but our waiter was more interested in the table of women sitting next to us. Probably the worst service I have had in a long time! I love Columbia's but if I go back and I get the same waiter, I'm walking right back out!"
Dined on 5/02/2013
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Review 26 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Reliable

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always a pleasant experience. Food is good, love the salad and sangria!"
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 27 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Spanish in St Augustine

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very good restaurant. We enjoyed several tapas with friends and good wine. Service was very good - maybe even too fast.... Definitely would go back."
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, special occasion
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Review 28 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

columbia houses review

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"beautiful restaurant sangria was very good prices are very reasonable great area to spend the day in st Augustine then have lunch or dinner"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, late-night find, special occasion
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Review 29 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A Longstanding Tradition!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Florida wouldn't be complete without the Columbia Restaurant. It has been owned and operated by generations of the same family for years. If you like Cuban and Spanish food, this is the place. The first one opened in Tampa, and there are about seven in the state. The special salad, black bean soup, garbanzo bean soup, paella, and sangria are a foodies' delight!"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 30 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I love Columbia, if I am in Florida I would never miss it!!"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 31 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Loved the food, ambience and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Loved the food, ambience and service!!! Wonderful dining experience!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
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Review 32 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We had a large group. Everything

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a large group. Everything was outstanding, except we were hot. It seems like there was no airflow in the corner we were in."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 33 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Overheard two couples at entrance

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Overheard two couples at entrance saying this was their favorite Florida restaurant. We rate it in our "top ten" also.
Located in the heart if touristy old town, parking is sometimes a challenge. The food, service and ambience is worth it!
"
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 34 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Upscale Cuban food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Just as good as the original in Ybor City."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 35 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

There 2 nights ago. The service

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"There 2 nights ago. The service was poor and the food very disappointing. We ordered 4 tapas dishes. Each dish was cold. One dish the fundido had a piece of cheese in it the size of a quarter. The tortilla was cold and oily. The chicken in the arroz compollo was dry and tough. I could go on and on, but it is not worth it. This has been a favorite restaurant of mine for years (20+). It has be going downhill for half those years. I return each time hoping to get the Columbia of many years past. It isn't going to happen. I will from now on go to the Celebration location on my visits to family a couple of times a year. St. A. might be beyond repair. The family needs to fire key people at this location."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2004
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Review 36 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a fantastic time at

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had a fantastic time at Columbia. It was our first time in St. Augustine, and Columbia was highly recommended by the owners of the vacation home.
Our group of five ordered several tapas and sides, a pitcher of mojito, and we had a fantastic time. Our server was knowledgeable, helpful, and overall fantastic."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 37 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

our waitress was terrible,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"our waitress was terrible, if she thought she could get away with treating us so badly she was mistaken. I am a local and assuming she thought we were tourists and wouldn't be back or wouldn't pass on our comments to other locals she was mistaken. The manager needs to look into this!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, late-night find
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Review 38 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

great place

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"One of our favorite restaurants when we are in St Augustine. Great food, service and atmosphere."
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 39 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A Cuban Gem in Old St. Augustine

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very good restaurant with an attentive server, ample portions and visible management making sure your meal is wonderful. Our paella was filled with seafood and the cuban bread was hot and crusty. However, there was no champagne/sparkling wine on the menu. It was our wedding anniversary and we had to ask to purchase a bottle of the cava they use in the sangria to celebrate. A bottle of Cristalino arrived a few minutes later with champagne glasses, so it is available per request. It would be a nice addition to their beverage menu, especally for celebrations like ours. This is one of my favorite, reasonably priced restaurants in the Old Section of St. Augustine. We've been coming here for years. We never leave disappointed."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 40 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

wonderful black bean soup

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"wonderful black bean soup and 1905 salad as always."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 41 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fantastic food, service and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Fantastic food, service and ambiance. Our group of four was extremely pleased with the Columbia Restaurant."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 42 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Beautiful restaurant and always

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Beautiful restaurant and always delicious. It is a very large restaurant which means lots of people and can lead to service taking a while to get back to you... Besides that it's an amazing must see restuarant. Try the sangria de cava!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 43 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best meal in years. Always

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Best meal in years. Always a treat."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2010
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Review 44 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Columbia never disappoints!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Columbia never disappoints! From the loaf of Cuban bread for EACH INDIVIDUAL :-) to the salad, to the desserts flambéd tableside, you know you are immersed in an awesome dining experience. You can wear a blindfold, throw a dart at the menu, and know that you will be happy with it."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 45 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The 1905 salad is to die for.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The 1905 salad is to die for. I don't even look at the menu any more - I just order the salad!!!!!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 46 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good ambience, and great Sangria,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good ambience, and great Sangria, on the very high end price wise so it's not a regular spot to stop, but nice for the special occasion."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2008
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 47 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

FANTASTIC!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fantastic! We ate here 17 yrs ago on our honyemoon and returned on our 17th anniversery- it was as wonderful as we remembered it to be. A true gem... standing the test of time!"
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 48 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food a little lacking on serv

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Dinner was fabulous, service was great, my only disappointment was when I made reservations I asked about something they could offer to make it a special night and nobody responded"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 49 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I thought it was a great experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I thought it was a great experience, we went for my wife's Birthday and they sang to her in Spanish! I've never thought about it, but it was funny to see all white people, of the wait staff, sing in Spanish.. Took me by surprise! "VERY COOL!" I my self as a Latino/Hispanic was getting ready to sing Happy Birthday along "in English" LOL! They made it fun, it was an awesome Birthday for my wife! :0) Thank you!!"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, great for lunch
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Review 50 for Columbia Restaurant - St. Augustine
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A gem in St Augustine

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The Columbia Restaurant is, as always, phenomenal. The service is superb, with an extremely attentive and personable waitstaff. The decor and surroundings create a unique ambiance that is an absolute gem in the St Augustine crown of attractions. A trip to America's oldest city is never complete without a stop at the Columbia Restaurant."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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