One of St. Augustine’s most recognizable addresses just got a fresh start. 17 King American Bistro officially opened its doors on Friday, May 1st, at 17 King Street, right on the Plaza de la Constitución, and if the menu, the wine library, and the live music are any indication, this one’s going to earn a permanent spot in the rotation.
The space has been home to a few different restaurants over the years, most recently The Harvest Restaurant, but the team behind 17 King is writing a new chapter entirely. The same creative minds who built La Casa Studios are behind this concept, and it’s now part of The Plaza Experience — a growing hub for arts and culture in the heart of downtown. The result is something that feels less like a restaurant opening and more like a full reimagining of what that corner of the plaza can be.
“Our goal with 17 King American Bistro is to create an immersive and memorable dining experience,” says Gary McGeddy, owner of 17 King American Bistro. “We have this gorgeous wine library that’s a centerpiece of the space. It was natural for our wine program to be one of the main pillars of the concept. We’re rounding it out with a curated menu that stands on its own but also complements our wine offerings, an extensive cocktail menu, and a full performance schedule featuring live musicians.”
The spot is exactly what its name suggests: a classic American bistro with a personality all its own. You’ll find brunch, lunch, and dinner served daily, a full bar, and that wine library Gary mentioned — which honestly sounds like a very good reason to linger. There’s even a small wine tasting table where you can purchase a bottle to take home. Live music plays daily, with local favorites like Jim Johnston, Alex Peramas, and Shyla Macaluso on the performance schedule, so whether you’re popping in for a quick weekday lunch or settling in for a long Friday night dinner, there’s always something to make the evening feel a little more festive.
To helm the kitchen, Gary tapped Chef Landry Wyatt, a Gainesville native who started cooking at 16 and went on to graduate from the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts. The menu he’s put together is polished without being precious — the kind of food you actually want to eat.
On the starters side, the Smoked Fish Dip is already a crowd favorite, and the Crispy Calamari, Tempura Asparagus, Grilled Shrimp Polenta, and Jumbo Lump Crab Cake are worth serious consideration before you even get to the main event. When it comes to mains, the Pan Seared Crispy Chicken, the Duck Pappardelle, the Grilled Atlantic Salmon, and a Filet Mignon make dinner feel like a genuine occasion. If you’re coming for brunch, the Lobster Benedict and Smoked Salmon Toast are the kind of plates that make a slow Sunday morning feel like something to plan around. Burgers and sandwiches round things out nicely for the lunch crowd, including a Classic Bistro Burger and a Crispy Chicken Sandwich for when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
On the drinks side, you’ve got classics like an Old Fashioned alongside signature specialties like the Garita, their house margarita that’s already earning fans. And save room for the Crème Brûlée or the Warm Chocolate Lava Cake if you’re the kind of person who can never say no to chocolate. 
The location puts it right where it belongs: walkable, central, and sitting on one of the most storied pieces of real estate in St. Augustine. Whether you’re making a reservation for date night, planning a catch-up lunch with a friend, or just looking for a new weekend brunch spot to rotate into the regular lineup, 17 King is worth putting on your list sooner rather than later.
St. Augustine’s dining scene is better when locally owned restaurants thrive, and 17 King American Bistro is off to a strong start. Go give them a reason to celebrate. Hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11am–9pm and Friday and Saturday from 11am–10pm. Reservations are available now through OpenTable. Follow along at @17kingstreet to stay up to date on specials, live music schedules, and whatever else Chef Landry and the team have up their sleeves.
17 King Street, St. Augustine, FL | 17kingsta.com
