A New Waterfront Restaurant Aims to Open in Time for Nights of Lights

After years of anticipation, a new restaurant is set to return to one of St. Augustine’s best-known stretches of waterfront. The Wharf, at 135 Avenida Menendez, is aiming for a November 2026 opening. That timing is meant to coincide with the start of the city’s Nights of Lights celebration.

Illustration: AI-generated aerial view of the St. Augustine bayfront looking south. For illustration only. Not an actual photograph.

A Familiar Spot With a Long Dining History

The Wharf takes the place of the former Santa Maria Restaurant, just south of the Bridge of Lions. The Santa Maria was a longtime favorite for locals and visitors, known for its tabletop fish-feeding chutes. The structure was lost to storm damage and sat empty for years before it was demolished to make way for the new building. The owners say the site has welcomed diners on the water for more than 75 years.

The new restaurant is a fresh build over the water. It leaves the old fish-feeding tradition behind in favor of modern bayfront dining.

Locally Owned, Locally Operated

The property remains locally owned by the White family, who are also behind O.C. White’s Seafood and Spirits and The White Room. River Restaurant Group will operate The Wharf. The group also runs River & Post in Jacksonville and River & Fort and SAINT in St. Augustine.

What to Expect

• The Menu: Seafood is the focus, with a fresh oyster bar, plus steaks, burgers, and classic coastal dishes. The owners haven’t released a full menu yet.

• The Vibe: Upscale casual and approachable. As River Restaurant Group’s Jeff McCusker put it, you can come in shorts and a T-shirt, and families are welcome.

• The View: The team says the bay views will be the main attraction, with an interior that doesn’t compete with them.

• Arrive by Boat: The Wharf has 360 feet of dock space, so guests can pull up from the water.

Getting There

The Wharf is at 135 Avenida Menendez in historic downtown St. Augustine. There’s no dedicated private lot, which is typical downtown. Municipal parking and city garages are within a short walk.

Mark Your Calendar

While the opening is targeted for November, a firm date hasn’t been announced. Follow @wharfstaugustine on Instagram for updates, and check back with Ponte Vedra Focus when the doors open.