Paladar Cuban Eatery & Bakery

The food is outstanding!! I am gluten free and they offered gluten free bread, sides, and cheesecake. The staff was knowledgeable about the food options with allergies and cross contamination. I had a gluten free Cuban sandwich and it was INCREDIBLE!!

A Culinary Time Machine to Havana: Paladar Cuban Eatery is Pure Magic in St. Augustine Beach! Oh, where do I even begin? If you’re anywhere near St. Augustine Beach and your taste buds are craving a passport-free trip to Cuba, drop everything and head straight to Paladar Cuban Eatery & Bakery. This hidden gem at 5575 A1A South isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a love letter to Cuban heritage, wrapped in the warmest hospitality Florida has to offer. As someone who’s chased authentic Cuban flavors from Miami to Key West, I can confidently say Paladar doesn’t just nail it; it redefines it. Five stars aren’t enough—let’s make it ten! From the moment I stepped in, the atmosphere transported me. The cozy interior buzzes with nostalgic charm: vibrant colors, subtle nods to Cuban culture, and that irresistible aroma of fresh-baked pastelitos wafting from the bakery counter. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast on the patio (their “Terraza” is perfect for people-watching with a café con leche) or settling in for a leisurely dinner, it feels like you’re dining at a family’s home in Havana. Owners Nelly Santiago and Isela Gonzalez, proud Cuban-American entrepreneurs, have infused every corner with heart—it’s not corporate; it’s personal, and it shows. Now, the food—good lord, the food! Let’s start with breakfast, since they’ve been voted the Best Breakfast in St. Augustine (and rightfully so). I devoured the Traditional Cuban Breakfast: perfectly scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and buttery Cuban tostada that crunches just right. Paired with their café con leche? Heavenly. But if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Cuban Breakfast Sandwich—juicy roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and a fried egg on homemade bread. It’s like a Cubano decided to wake up early and conquer the morning. Lunch and dinner? Prepare for liftoff. The Cubano sandwich is legendary: layers of succulent roast pork, ham, melty Swiss, tangy pickles, and mustard pressed between golden, toasted bread that’s baked in-house daily. It’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursts with flavor that screams authenticity. But the real showstopper for me was the Frita burger—a Miami-Cuban classic with a seasoned beef-pork-chorizo patty topped with shoestring potatoes for that addictive crunch. I added a side of abuela’s famous black beans, which are hands-down the best I’ve ever tasted: rich, velvety, and seasoned to perfection with hints of garlic and cumin that linger like a warm hug. Don’t skip the Ropa Vieja either—shredded beef simmered in a savory tomato sauce, served over fluffy rice with plantains. It’s hearty, comforting, and tastes like it simmered for hours in a grandmother’s kitchen. And the bakery? A dangerous paradise. Fresh pastelitos filled with guava and cream cheese that melt in your mouth, flaky empanadas stuffed with picadillo, and silky flan for dessert—everything’s made from scratch with ingredients sourced for true Cuban flair. Pro tip: Grab a box of pastries to go; they’ll vanish before you hit the beach. Service-wise, the team is phenomenal—fast, friendly, and genuinely passionate. Our server chatted about the family recipes behind each dish, making us feel like regulars on our first visit. Even during a busy lunch rush, everything arrived hot and with a smile. Portions are generous, prices are fair (especially for the quality—two sandwiches, coffees, and pastries for around $50 felt like a steal), and they cater to gluten-free folks with care, which is a huge plus. Paladar isn’t just eating out; it’s an experience that blends indigenous, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences into something magical. In a sea of tourist traps, this spot stands out as a beacon of real, soulful cuisine. Whether you’re a local or vacationing in St. Augustine Beach, make Paladar your must-visit. I’ve been back three times in a week, and it’s only getting better. ¡Que rico! Run, don’t walk—your taste buds will thank you forever. 🇨🇺🍽️

The Cuban sandwich was amazing, the bread was so flavorful and crispy. The cheesecake and sangria were perfect! To top it all off all of this was gluten free. We will be back, thank you!!