Scarlett O'Hara's: Frankly, my dear, it's just a great place!
Published: Aug 4, 2009
It may not be Tara, or anywhere near Atlanta for that matter, but Scarlett O’Hara’s Bar and Restaurant in St. Augustine still hits the spot with its southern food and charm.
The weathered Dade Pine exterior of O’Hara’s invokes a sentimental feeling with its old Floridian architecture. The historical building was originally constructed in 1879 as two individual neighboring homes. Today an outdoor oyster bar unites the two individual spaces and serves up one of the most popular happy hours in town. And with its shady front porch offering diners a reprieve from the sun and the inviting sounds from guitars of local musicians, it’s not a wonder.
Inside, the feeling of a bygone era is extended with historic architectural details, paintings of “Gone With the Wind” characters in gilded frames and cozy dining tables. Up for an adventure? The Ghost Bar upstairs will send shivers down your spine. Legend has it that the man who built the home drowned in a bathtub where the bar is now located. It is said that his moans and splashing can be heard late at night. Because of it, the restaurant is registered on the National Directory of Haunted Places.
All in all, it’s the sort of place that inspires conversations and memories. And one of the most memorable things about O’Hara’s is the food.
While the restaurant is known for its barbeque, the menu is full of variety.
Get your meal started with some nachos, shrimp, or fried gator tail. Mammy’s homemade chili will warm you up during the cooler months in Northern Florida.
In the mood for a sandwich? The Big Rhett Burger (1/2 lb. of Black Angus Beef), “Frankly my Dear” Jumbo Hot Dog, or Hungry Soldier (grilled chicken topped with bacon, bbq and cheddar) won’t leave you disappointed.
If the nearby ocean is calling to you, you might want to try the seafood platter (shrimp, fish, oysters and deviled crab).
But the slow smoked BBQ has many loyal customers who love the racks of rib, chicken, and pork plates all served with fries, baked beans and coleslaw.
Frankly, my dear, it’s just a great place.
- by Christine Foster, Jacksonville Reporter for HelloMetro
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