 Discover St. Augustine’s Iconic Ingredient: The Datil Pepper When it comes to ingredients that define St. Augustine, the datil pepper takes the top spot--fiery, flavorful, and fiercely local. This little golden-orange chili packs a punch that’s as unique as the city it calls home. With its signature sweet heat and complex flavor, the datil pepper has been spicing up St. Augustine’s cuisine for more than two centuries. 🌶️ So, What Is a Datil Pepper? The datil pepper is a small, lantern-shaped pepper, similar in heat to a habanero, but with a noticeably sweeter, fruitier flavor. It’s believed to have been brought to St. Augustine by Minorcan settlers in the 18th century, and it thrives in the city’s warm, coastal climate. Today, St. Augustine remains one of the only places in the world where datil peppers are grown commercially - making it a true regional treasure. 🧑🍳 Why Locals Love It Datil peppers are as versatile as they are vibrant. You’ll find them starring in everything from hot sauces and jams to chowders, BBQ sauces, marinades, and even desserts. The pepper’s sweet heat adds a unique zing without overwhelming the dish—just enough to keep you coming back for more. 🍽️ Where to Find Datil Pepper Sauces in St. Augustine If you’re craving a taste of this iconic ingredient, check out these local makers and shops that showcase datil peppers in all their fiery glory: 1. Minorcan Mike’s (online orders) A local legend known for bold, authentic Minorcan datil pepper sauces. 2. Pepper Palace - 2 St. George Street Hot sauce lovers rejoice—this shop features a fiery selection of sauces, including some with a datil twist. 3. Datil B Good (online orders with Luvin' Oven Catering) Locally made small-batch sauces with a creative take on datil-based flavor. Ask for the creamed datil pepper honey! 4. Hot Stuff - 34 Treasury Street Small batch sauces from Florida guided by an international palate. 5. Minorcan Datil Pepper Products (various locations in St. Augustine) Authentic and locally sourced datil sauces and relishes rooted in heritage and heat. 🛍️ Where to Take an Infused Taste Home 1. The Spice & Tea Exchange - 59 Hypolita Street and 167 San Marco Ave. Great for spice blends featuring datil and other local flavors. 2. Whetstone Chocolates - 42 St. George Street, 139 King Street, 13 Anastasia Blvd. For the bold: try chocolate infused with a hint of datil heat. 🌶️ Taste the Heat with Us! Want a guided experience of St. Augustine’s signature flavors? The Tasting Tours often features datil pepper products on our culinary adventures—from savory bites to sweet surprises—and we love sharing the story behind this spicy local legend. 👉 Book your next flavor-filled adventure: www.thetastingtours.com The datil pepper isn’t just an ingredient—it’s a bite of St. Augustine’s history, culture, and creativity. Come taste the heat and discover why this local legend continues to leave a lasting impression.
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St. Augustine may be best known for its rich history and coastal charm, but it’s also home to a vibrant and ever-growing wine scene. Whether you're a casual sipper or a seasoned connoisseur, the Nation’s Oldest City offers a variety of wine bars where you can unwind, explore new flavors, and soak in the local vibe. Here's our curated list of our best spots to raise a glass in St. Augustine:
1. Carrera Wine Cellar📍 35 San Marco Ave Located in the charming Uptown district, Carrera Wine Cellar is both a boutique wine shop and an intimate wine bar. Their rotating selection of wines by the glass, curated flights, and light bites make it a go-to for casual meetups or wine education events. Don’t miss their expert-led classes if you're looking to swirl, sniff, and sip like a pro. 2. Bin 39 Wine Bar at the St. George Inn📍 4 St. George St.#101 Tucked away in the peaceful courtyard of the St. George Inn, Bin 39 is a hidden gem in the heart of downtown. With over 70 wines by the glass—many rated 90 points or higher—it’s a must-visit for serious wine enthusiasts. Sip and relax under the trees with courtyard views. 3. Casa de Vino 57📍 57 Treasury St. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Casa de Vino 57 is housed in a gorgeous historic home with a shaded garden courtyard. Their global wine list pairs perfectly with artisan charcuterie boards and live music. It’s an effortlessly romantic escape right in the heart of the city. Keep an eye out for the full moon wine tastings! 4. La Cocina Upstairs at San Sebastian Winery📍 157 King St. Take your wine experience to new heights—literally. This rooftop bar above San Sebastian Winery is known for its scenic views, live music, and laid-back vibes, but now features culinary delights from La Cocina. Plus, free winery tours and tastings downstairs make this a full-bodied experience. 5. The Gifted Cork & Gourmet📍 64 Hypolita St. A cozy boutique wine and gift shop tucked in the historic district, The Gifted Cork offers daily wine tastings, fun wine flights, and friendly hospitality. It's the perfect place to discover new wines, pick up a unique souvenir, or enjoy a relaxing break between sightseeing stops. Keep an eye out for special Friday tasting events! 🍇 Sip & Stay Awhile…No matter your palate, St. Augustine’s wine bars offer something special for everyone. Whether you're pairing a glass with golden hour views or enjoying a flight in a tucked-away courtyard, the city's wine scene invites you to slow down and savor each sip. Ready to sip, savor, and stroll through the best of St. Augustine? Join us on a Food Pairing Tour and discover even more hidden gems — one glass at a time. 🥂 www.thetastingtours.com Eating gluten-free in St. Augustine has never been easier! Whether you're strolling through the historic district, enjoying the beachside breeze, or exploring different neighborhoods, there are plenty of fantastic restaurants offering delicious gluten-free options. Here are some of the best spots to check out…
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