After more than two decades as a staple of St. Augustine’s dining scene, Purple Olive is entering an exciting new chapter. The beloved bistro, long known for its inventive cuisine and intimate charm, reopened Friday, October 24 in a beautifully reimagined space on Anastasia Boulevard—offering the same soulful flavors locals love, now elevated by a larger, more refined setting.
Since opening in the early 2000s, Purple Olive has built a loyal following for its chef-driven approach, where creativity and comfort meet on every plate. At the center of that vision is Peter Kenney, whose 35-year culinary career has shaped the restaurant’s signature style. Known for transforming fresh, high-quality ingredients into dishes that feel both familiar and unexpected, Kenney’s menu has always reflected a balance of artistry and approachability. The new location allows that vision to expand. Guests can expect a menu that reads like a collection of favorites—those standout dishes that regulars have returned for year after year—alongside new creations inspired by Kenney’s decades of experience. From delicately prepared seafood to rich, house-made pastas and vibrant seasonal offerings, each dish is thoughtfully composed, emphasizing both flavor and presentation.
Beyond the kitchen, the new space reflects the restaurant’s evolution while staying true to its roots. With seating for approximately 120 guests, the redesigned interior offers more room without losing the warm, neighborhood feel that defined the original location. A lush outdoor patio invites diners to enjoy Florida’s coastal evenings, while the addition of a full bar, Pape’s, introduces a more layered experience. The bar program is expected to complement the menu with craft cocktails, curated wines, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. St. Augustine itself has seen steady growth as a culinary destination in recent years, with a dining scene that blends historic charm and modern innovation. Within that landscape, Purple Olive has remained a constant—one of the restaurants that helped shape the city’s reputation for creative, locally inspired cuisine.
This expansion marks not just a move, but a reinvestment in what has made the restaurant successful: attention to detail, a passion for hospitality, and a commitment to evolving without losing identity. For longtime patrons, it’s a chance to rediscover a favorite in a new light. For first-time visitors, it’s an invitation to experience a restaurant that continues to define what thoughtful dining in St. Augustine can be.
