Commander's Shellfish Camp
Nestled in the coastal charm of St. Augustine, Commander's Shellfish Camp at 7579 A1A S is a haven for seafood lovers. With its relaxed ambiance and focus on fresh shellfish, this restaurant captures the essence of Florida’s coastal dining. Let’s dive into what makes Commander's Shellfish Camp a must-experience for anyone seeking authentic flavors and a laid-back atmosphere.
Commander's Shellfish Camp: A Coastal Dining Gem
Commander's Shellfish Camp offers an experience that beautifully blends the casual vibe of a local seafood shack with the high-quality dishes expected in St. Augustine’s vibrant culinary scene. From the moment you step in, the charm of the interior, with its nautical décor and welcoming staff, sets the stage for a memorable meal.
The menu is a celebration of shellfish, highlighting fresh catches from local waters. Whether you’re indulging in plump shrimp, savory oysters, or tender crab legs, the dishes reflect a dedication to quality ingredients and traditional preparation. Each plate is crafted with care, ensuring that the natural flavors of the seafood take center stage. Pair your meal with a crisp beer or a refreshing glass of wine, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a relaxing outing.
Fresh Ingredients Shine at Commander's Shellfish Camp
One of the standout aspects of Commander's Shellfish Camp is its commitment to sourcing fresh, local ingredients. The proximity to the ocean allows the kitchen to feature the day’s best catches, ensuring every dish bursts with flavor. This dedication to quality is evident in their oysters, which are served both raw and chargrilled with mouthwatering toppings like garlic butter and herbs.
Another crowd favorite is the peel-and-eat shrimp, perfectly seasoned and cooked to retain their succulent texture. For those seeking something heartier, the seafood platters offer generous portions of fish, scallops, and crab cakes. Each dish is prepared to perfection, showcasing the natural taste of the seafood without overpowering it with heavy sauces or spices.
The Relaxed Atmosphere Adds to the Experience
Dining at Commander's Shellfish Camp is not just about the food—it’s about embracing the laid-back Florida lifestyle. The restaurant’s location near the beach means guests can often catch a breeze while enjoying their meal, creating a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The staff at Commander's Shellfish Camp add to the welcoming atmosphere. Attentive and knowledgeable, they are quick to recommend the best dishes based on your preferences. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, you’ll feel like part of the family. This sense of familiarity, combined with the coastal charm, makes every visit special.
More Than Just a Meal: A Taste of St. Augustine
Commander's Shellfish Camp embodies the essence of St. Augustine’s rich culinary heritage. The restaurant’s focus on shellfish pays homage to the area’s historical reliance on the sea, offering diners a taste of the region’s traditions. The casual setting invites guests to linger, savoring not just the food but the experience of being in one of Florida’s most picturesque coastal towns.
Reviews
Came in for dinner on a Sunday evening and it was very busy already. Not that late, so we were surprised how long the wait would be. We opted for the outside seating, but we found out it is not as full service as inside and it was in the sun, so we went back in. The only seating available was at the bar, so we took it. We had excellent service at the bar! The server constantly walked by, refilled drinks, asked if we needed anything, etc. The restaurant is also a fish market so extremely casual and you definitely can smell the fresh fish here. Food was good too. We tried an order of conch fritters, baskets of shrimp and oyster po boys and some sides. The portions were large and fish was very fresh. Prices were about what I expected to spend. I would say, try this place for lunch or a weeknight when it might be a little easier to get a table. We passed this restaurant all week going back and forth from our rental, and it was consistently busy.
First time being here, came from Flagler County and regret not coming here sooner. Started with Oysters Rockefeller followed by a pound of snow crab legs and both were delicious. Wife had fresh Oysters from Massachusetts and fried shrimp, and all of it was tasty! Can't wait to come back and try more fresh seafood on the menu. Service was on point as well. Will DEF be coming back soon.
Amazing seafood dinner with great view. We opted to sit by the observation deck. Seafood is fresh. Shrimps and clams were huge. Smoked chicken sandwich with datil barbecue was good, a different take on bbq chicken sandwich. Service was fast.
Go early if you want a seat. It was packed already at 5:15pm on Saturday. We were able to snag a table on the covered deck. Alex was a terrific server. Friendly and helpful. My husband and I shared crab cakes which were delicious and meaty with a yummy sauce to dip in. They get a 5/5. I enjoyed my blackened mahi sandwich that was moist and flavorful though pricey $20. 4/5. My hubby upgraded to the higher priced sandwich to get tile fish. Unfortunately his was rather dry and bland. 3/5 Not what you hope for a $25 dollars sandwich. Both sandwiches had a fairly small piece of fish. Hush puppies just okay. Overall about 3.5/5
We just had some of the very best local ( Matazas ) oysters ever . Our server Alex was so knowledgeable and kind etc! Will definitely be back ! Maybe tomorrow!!! Lunch is now open on the lovely back deck! Check it out!!!!