- Attraction: Cap’s On The Water
- Location: 4325 Myrtle St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.capsonthewater.com
When twilight paints the Intracoastal Waterway in brilliant oranges and purples, there’s no better front-row seat than Cap’s On The Water.
This beloved St. Augustine institution has been claiming the title “Home to the most stunning sunsets in all of Florida” since its transformation from a humble fish camp in 1947 to the sophisticated waterfront dining destination it is today.
Tucked away on Myrtle Street in a residential neighborhood, Cap’s feels like a hidden treasure that locals have been keeping secret for decades. The restaurant sprawls across multiple dining areas – from the expansive outdoor deck to the intimate eight-table indoor dining room, the lively Sunset Oyster Bar, and even a traditional tiki bar where you can sip “docktails” while boats drift past your table.
Menu Highlights & Signature Dishes
Fresh Catch Selection: You’ll discover that Cap’s takes “fresh local seafood” seriously, with daily catches that can be prepared seared, crusted, or blackened. The vanilla grouper stands out as a customer favorite, featuring a delicate vanilla cream sauce that perfectly complements the flaky fish.
Their sesame seared tuna arrives as a showstopper – crusted to perfection, seared rare, and served over fried spinach with plantains and pickled ginger.
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Keep Exploring →She Crab Soup: This isn’t your ordinary crab soup. Cap’s version is a rich, roux-based creation loaded with crab, shrimp, crawfish, onions, peppers, and okra, served alongside homemade corn bread that’s warm and slightly sweet.
Multiple diners consistently call this the best crab soup they’ve ever tasted.
Calamari Vilano: The restaurant’s signature appetizer features flash-fried calamari tossed with olives in a spicy chili garlic sauce, topped with Asiago and Parmesan, and served over fried spinach. The combination of textures and the kick from the chili garlic creates an unforgettable start to your meal.
Craft Cocktails: Chief mixologist Cody has created something special here. The cocktail program uses fresh ingredients, local spirits, and artisan techniques. Their house-aged Manhattan spends three months in old bourbon barrels, while their spicy tequila gets infused with local datil peppers.
The espresso martini has become a customer obsession.
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Discover MoreAward-Winning Wine Program: With over 400 wine selections from around the world, Cap’s has earned Wine Spectator Magazine recognition for fourteen consecutive years. Unlike most restaurants that double or triple wine costs, Cap’s adds only a nominal markup, making their pricing similar to wine shop prices.
You’ll find everything from well-known labels to obscure boutique wines and even Grand Cru Burgundies.
Atmosphere & Waterfront Magic
Multiple Dining Experiences: The beauty of Cap’s lies in its variety of seating options, each offering a different vibe. The covered pavilion provides weather protection without sacrificing the waterfront ambiance, complete with ceiling fans for hot days and overhead heaters for cooler evenings. Roll-down screens can protect from sun, wind, or rain while maintaining that “always 72 degrees” comfort level.
The Sunset Oyster Bar: This large island bar positioned at the back of the restaurant offers the best bar views around. The surrounding oyster bar garden feels reminiscent of a Moroccan patio, creating what regulars describe as “a resort within a resort” atmosphere. You’ll find this area perfect for raw, steamed, or baked oysters paired with lively conversation.
Natural Beach Area: Bordering the main deck is a natural beach that’s become a favorite with families. Children love playing in the sand and climbing the old cedar tree that’s been entertaining youngsters for generations. The beach adds an authentic Old Florida charm that you can’t find at typical waterfront restaurants.
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Keep Exploring →Indoor Elegance: When you prefer air conditioning, the intimate indoor dining room features just eight tables, all with panoramic water views through large windows. The inside bar offers dimmed lighting and an intimate atmosphere, showcasing the bourbon selection and providing a perfect spot for quiet conversation.
Other Considerations
Wait Times & No Reservations: Cap’s operates on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations, which can mean substantial waits during peak times. However, they’ve turned waiting into part of the experience – servers bring “docktails,” wine, or small bites to guests waiting for tables. The estimated wait time is displayed outside the parking lot before you even park.
Valet Parking: Mandatory complimentary valet parking handled by A1A Valet ensures efficient use of the parking lot and keeps your car safe under 24-hour camera surveillance. Bringing cash for a tip is recommended, as this service helps maintain good relationships with the residential neighborhood.
Pricing Expectations: You’ll find Cap’s falls into the upscale casual dining category with prices reflecting the prime waterfront location and quality ingredients. Most diners feel the stunning views and fresh seafood justify the cost, especially considering the unique wine pricing structure that saves significantly compared to typical restaurant markups.
Family-Friendly Features: While the restaurant attracts couples seeking romantic sunset dinners, families appreciate the natural play area on the beach and the welcoming atmosphere. The multiple seating areas mean you can find the right vibe whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or enjoying a casual family meal.
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Discover MoreBest Times to Visit: Arriving early for sunset dining provides the most magical experience, though expect longer waits during these prime hours. The restaurant gets particularly busy on weekends, but the atmosphere and views make the wait worthwhile for most visitors.
Cap’s On The Water
📍 4325 Myrtle St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
