The Columbia Restaurant stands as a historic culinary landmark in the heart of St. Augustine, bringing over a century of Spanish and Cuban culinary traditions to the nation's oldest city. As the sister restaurant to Tampa's Columbia (Florida's oldest restaurant, founded in 1905), the St. Augustine location carries forward the legacy established by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez Sr. more than 115 years ago. Family-owned for four generations and now operated by the fourth and fifth generation of the founding family, The Columbia delivers an authentic taste of old-world Spain and Cuba in a setting that perfectly complements St. Augustine's rich historical character. Located at the prominent corner of St. George and Hypolita Streets in the heart of the historic district, The Columbia occupies a prime position among the shops, galleries, and attractions that make downtown St. Augustine such a beloved destination. The restaurant's Mediterranean-style dining rooms transport guests to another era, lavishly decorated with hundreds of hand-painted tiles imported from Spain, original artwork depicting Spanish and Cuban scenes, and elegant Spanish-style fountains that create an atmosphere of refined beauty. The exquisite tilework alone makes The Columbia worth visiting, with each dining room featuring its own unique artistic character and ambiance. The menu at The Columbia showcases award-winning Spanish and Cuban cuisine that has been perfected over more than a century of family recipes and culinary expertise. The famous 1905 Salad, created at the original Tampa location, remains a signature dish prepared tableside with theatrical flair. Your server will toss crisp iceberg lettuce with julienned ham, Swiss cheese, tomatoes, olives, and romano cheese in the restaurant's secret vinaigrette dressing, creating both a delicious salad and an entertaining performance. This tableside preparation has become a Columbia tradition that delights first-time visitors and longtime regulars alike. Cuban classics dominate the menu, delivering authentic flavors that transport diners straight to Havana's vibrant streets. The Arroz con Pollo Valenciana (chicken with yellow rice) arrives perfectly seasoned with saffron and tender vegetables, while the Ropa Vieja features shredded beef in a rich tomato-based sauce that melts in your mouth. Black beans and rice, a Cuban staple, accompany many dishes and can be ordered as a generous side. The Lechon Asado (roasted pork) showcases traditional Cuban preparation methods, arriving tender and flavorful with a crispy exterior that adds wonderful texture. Paella, the iconic Spanish rice dish, receives star treatment at The Columbia with several variations available. The Paella Valenciana combines chicken, seafood, chorizo, and vegetables in a saffron-infused rice that delivers complex, layered flavors in every bite. Seafood lovers can opt for the Mariscos version, loaded with shrimp, scallops, mussels, and fresh fish. Each