The Spanish Bakery & Cafe (Salcedo Kitchen)

woman was nice . but over all not worth the price , cuban sandwich isn’t flavorful and it mainly bread and the “empanadas” are sweet, not right at all either . they look like a turtle shell and they’re dry !? and rice and beans are smooshed together and too spicy / no flavor .

While visiting St.Augustine this past week, we stopped at the Spanish Bakery & Cafe for a light bite. I was hesitant to eat here since it seemed kinda touristy and non-descript. The hubs was hoping it might be a great, hole in the wall find. It was not. Limited offerings and a bland Cuban sandwich. The Piccadillo soup was somewhat tasty. Might be a better place for kids. Would suggest other lunch spots, instead.

This morning with my daughter we just get a couples beef empanadas, 2 chicken and rice soup and cuban sandwich. the empanada had a flavor super sour, I don't know if that was over fermented or super old with a vinegar flavor. Of course it wasn't fresh. Same with the chicken and rice soup, It was cold and had a taste of Parmesan cheese, which it does not have. Nothing was fresh or of good quality. It was the worst $52 I've ever spent. I hope the owners can properly train their employees to sell at least the minimum quality product. Not to mention that everything we bought ended up in the trash, since we weren't sure we would be able to consume the food in that quality.

We had three flavors of empanada. They were good. Overall everything was good but nothing spectacular. Had some key lime pie as well. It was pretty good. Had some Piccadilly soup also.

Love this place. From the most amazing Cuban sandwiches to the spicy and yummy mustard sauce this little eatery is hidden away on Saint George Street. Don’t forget the baked goods too! Sit out side under a cypress tree (way inland for it actually) and enjoy the beautiful florida weather.

Amazing chicken rice soup! Saved my soul in a chilly day. The outdoor tables are very lovely

Great little hidden gem 💎, off the beaten path away. Authentic soup and empanadas. Very tasty 😋 and well priced. It’s not fancy but it’s GOOD 👍

Best empanadas I’ve ever had! Such a cute place and everyone is always so nice! We have been coming here for 6 years and stop here every time we come and always recommend it to everyone.

Friendly staff. The bakery has a nice outside patio with tables. The empanadas are good although my beef was a bit spicy. Pastry a bit dry. Nice spot to eat and relax.

This is the nicest bakery. I got a latte and ham and cheese croissant. My Husband got the eggs Benedict and he can't stop talking about. Very friendly staff. Sat outside on a cute little patio. This cafe is a must!!

empanadas were so Meh and overpowering with cumin. rice and beans taste the same. I should have checked reviews first.

Seems like they have a new chef or are trying some new things. The food was delicious. I had a beef empanada, with black beans and rice. The breading on the empanada was very thick. Too thick to be perfectly honest. Staff inside was great too. I'll definitely go back again to try other things.

Ehhhhhhh. The empanadas were SO disappointing. The first bite was DRY & a mouthful of just bread. I picked it apart. Pricey too. Rice and beans were subpar as well. The ladies with me weren't a big fan of their meals either. It is what it is.

I remember discovering this little bakery tucked away from the main old street during a childhood trip to Saint Augustine. Back then, it felt like discovering a little oasis of comfort meals in a little sanctuary. Visiting many years later, it still feels that way, like you're making a discovery. The bread and baked goods are all home cooked and sometimes you'll have the privilege of seeing them bring in fresh loaves and pastries out of the oven. I always love getting their soup of the day. They had a chicken and dumpling soup when I went that was very tasty. I will agree with others that the bread on their empanadas is quite thick and the meat inside might benefit from a little more seasoning or sauce. But that might also be me more used to South American style empanadas I typically find in Miami.

My friends had visited this small bakery in St. Aug a few years back and loved it so we decided to try it out today. The bakery is very cute inside and outside has a lot of seating. We wanted empanadas, and they only had a few options left so we got the chicken and veggie empanadas. The empanadas came with side so I got the black bean and rice mix on the side. As far as the quantity of food - the empanada was huge. The side were also decent sizes. In terms of flavor - I was very underwhelmed. The outside was wayyyy too thick for an empanada. It was too doughy and chewy. The inside of the veggie had spinach and corn with some spices. It was not spicy at all and seemed to have lacked salt and some other spices. The chicken in the empanada was very dry and again, lacked flavor. If it was just up to flavor, I would give this place a 2/5 but because of the portion size and the ambience of the space, I'm giving it a 3/5.

I'm not sure why I keep doing this to myself. Been going here for 20 years. It was a must for my family every time we were in St. Augustine. It's one of those places that is just a piece of my family. Unfortunately we will have to say goodbye. I know the owners changed a while ago. Since that happened it's steadily declined. I keep hoping and praying this next time will be better but it never is. So why is it bad in my opinion? First, the empanadas used to be the star. No more. It's definitely not the same recipe. If you want an empanada that is mostly, no excessively, breading, this is the place for you. It is so much breading and so dry, it's just awful. Back in the good old days if you spent any time there, you'd see them bringing out fresh bread and empanadas from the ovens to the store. If you ordered a sandwich, it was made to order fresh from the kitchen. Now most everything seems to be premade. Bread is plastic bagged up, used to be warm from the oven. They also got rid of their signature cookies, cinnamon, lemon, etc. They're gone. There is no charm in this place any longer. Drinks are warm. Lastly, the prices have significantly increased. For 10 bucks you get a single empanada and a bag of chips. 14 bucks gets you a premade Cuban, which is quite small, and a bag of chips. It is WAY overpriced now unfortunately. Sadly I think we've made our last visit and are saying goodbye. The family tradition has finally died this year.

Was really looking forward to the empanadas. Was so disappointed. Breading was so thick and bland. Beef inside wasn't seasoned well. The sides were very basic, Spanish bean salad and tortellini salad were basically just soaked in a vinaigrette dressing. $50 for 4 empanadas and a cinnamon roll

*This review is for the bread loaves only* FYI: I've seen reviews about them being cash only, that is no longer the case. I was introduced to Spanish Bakery by a friend. When we walked through the front fence and into the courtyard, I had no idea this bakery was tucked in the back. We ordered a rectangle loaf of bread to-go. The loaves were about to come out of the oven so we waited about 5 minutes. Well worth the wait! We took it back home and devoured it. A few months later hubby and I were in the area. That night I was planning to make a charcuterie board. I thought we could have some bread with olive oil on the side. Ohh was that a good idea. I picked up a round loaf this time. Same look and taste of the rectangle, just different shape. This bread is amazing by itself, with butter, with olive oil, toasted, you name it. It's been fresh, fluffy and positively delicious both times. If you are in the area, pick one up and try it for yourself!

The food was good when we were there for our first time. But when we went back the next day at 4:30, they said they were closed even though the hours say 5 pm. Their food is served out of food warmers so it was really disappointing they couldn't just scoop some of their Picadillo and rice into a bowl for us. It would have taken 5 minutes and we would have paid cash. We had looked forward to this all day so we were pretty disappointed. We even cut our day trip to the beach short just to get back there in time. Pretty lame!

Delicious and extremely affordable! The front employee was super nice too. I'll definitely return.

I have been here at least 20 times. Very dog friendly! The empanadas are delicious and are made more spectacular by the datil sauce. The empanadas are 8.95, a bit expensive, but they are big enough so that one equals a light lunch.

Great location and great food! The cashier took our orders quickly and our food was out just a couple minutes later. Our beef empanadas were stuffed with a great amount of meat and peppers, as well as being seasoned well. The black beans and rice needed a little salt, but that's just my preference. The location is very cute; outdoor seating in a little courtyard area away from the street. Would definitely come again

So incredible. The guava cream cheese turnover was absolutely amazing and the chicken empanada was delicious. If you are walking around St Augustine and want a snack, this is the place to go!

I bought a big round bread and it was so soft! Me and two other friends finished it quickly and I had to buy another one! Would definitely coming back whenever I'm in st Augustine again.

Was recommended by our chocolate factory tourguide. Small sandwich place with fresh bread Hot dogs for kids. We had cuban sandwiches since they were out of empanadas. Excellent sandwich. Next to chocolate store and public bathrooms on main shopping drag. Out of most included sides. I got the very small pasta salad but didnt like it. My wife liked hers pasta salad. In coupon book or discount with chocolate pass.

The food was not good. The empanada crust was way too thick and way too much meat inside. We tried the chicken and beef and were not happy with the flavor. I obtained the 1790 salad and it had way too much olives and not enough salad. Will need to grab lunch elsewhere. The kettle chips were delicious. My husband did enjoy the rice and beans side. Service was okay. The lady who took our order seemed annoyed when we were trying to decide what we wanted to order. The smell of the restaurant was on point, it's what grabbed our attention when we were walking by.

Nothing worse than a way-too-expensive, undercooked empanada. It was actually quite good when we finished cooking it at home. But, yeah, that's not supposed to be how that works.

It was my first time visiting downtown St. Augustine, Florida and after exploring the city I stopped at a Spanish Bakery and had a beef empanada and broccoli slaw. I was not so hungry so this was a perfect snack. The sitting area outside was perfect for the nice weather. I enjoyed my time here and the food was outstanding.

This is a great little gem my twin and I found while wandering aimlessly through the little downtown square. We were both in the mood for filling, yet simple food, nothing fancy, when we happened upon this place. Seeing the menu we both wholeheartedly agreed on giving this place a shot. I ordered a pressed roast beef sandwich with broccoli slaw while my sis got an empanada with a side of beans and rice. The sandwich was delicious, each ingredient was to perfection, the meat was soft and tender while the caramelized onions and mozzarella cheese gave it a nice touch, all held together between the bread was fresh and fluffy. The staff there were really friendly and courteous to me and my twin. Its a very small bakery with a quaint, down home feel, but there was ample seating outside to accommodate for these tough COVID times.

I have been coming. Here for over 20 years! Every time I come to at Augustine it's my first stop! The fresh baked bread is out of this world! Empanadas and the picadillo soup with a roll is my usual order. So delicious every time! The cinnamon roll with maple icing was one of the best I have ever had!! Grab one if they aren't sold out!! I always recommend this place to anyone I know visiting the city!

I visited here after touring the Castillo, and was very impressed with the fast service and fulfilling food.

On our last day in St. Augustine, we wanted to get a quick lunch. This place smelled SO good. I mean SO SO SO GOOD! The children from a school were browsing in and out of the stores near by but they missed this little gem. The niece and I were able to get our lunches. I got Picadillo over rice and my niece got a meat pie, both came with chips or bread and a cookie, along with a drink, all for a little under $8.00 A great price. I also bought a huge loaf of bread for $3. It was delicious at home.

Very nice place to eat and good affordable prices. Food was good. Portions were generous. Staff was exceptionally courteous and friendly. On St George pedestrian walk

I have never been disappointed with this business since1991 when I moved to st.Augustine florida. I love all their homage Spanish food and fresh bread everyday, plus the people are so friendly! If your a tourist this is a must go to place, great for lunch

Great, casual place for lunch. Well priced and tasty empanadas and meatloaf special sandwich. Loved the local favorite datil sauce. Used the 10% coupon from red train kiosk. Outdoor picnic table seating. Family owned since the 60's.

This Spanish Bakery is cute place, a bit hidden in downtown St. Augustine. It's a perfect place for lunch, when we are in the area, we want to make sure we get there before they close to get their combo deal: chicken soup (delicious), the sausage rolls are to die for, the empanadas are flavorful as well. You also get a cookie, so my favorite is the cinnamon one! Is this the most authentic Spanish meal? Not really, but it's fresh (you can see how they make it and racks full of goodies), tastes great and it's fun to eat it outside at their picnic tables! For me, this is a fun, casual place where you can have a nice lunch en plein air!

I liked it! Great place for a casual, fast lunch, which is what we were looking for. Outdoor seating is nice on a good day, and the food was pretty good for the price. Definitely not the fanciest or most memorable food, but it is great for something quick!

The bread is phenomenally tasty here. Debbie was a wonderful server. My friend left his credit card at the Spanish Bakery, and she found it and gave it to him. My friends ordered soups, empanadas, drinks, and a loaf of bread. The soups like the gazpacho and ham soup were so so. The empanadas were good. We ate outdoors under a tent like gazebo on picnic tables. The squirrels around us were entertaining. I would definitely buy a loaf of bread from this place again.

The good: Cuban sandwich! Ribeye sandwich! And probably the best empañada I've ever had! The bad: You have to eat outside and there's no bathrooms. It's hot in July. The friendly: The lady behind the counter was so friendly and helpful. She gave us some good recommendations for other places to check out and directed us to public restrooms.

Came back after a few years as this had been one of my favorite must go eateries in St.Augustine! Came in today they changed the menu, portions and the prices are outrageous! I would not recommend it as nothing is the same and it's tasteless. In addition, their famous and delicious cookie they do not make them anymore! For 4 people $60 as it was a nice restaurant.

Cuban sandwich was good and tasty. Service a little stand-off-ish. Very rude when we asked about ice cream at the neighboring establishment ("I have no idea, I TOLD you we don't sell that") Satisfied as a tourist. Would never return as a local.

Stop! Dont walk by this hidden gem. You can find it by the smells that linger onto St George street. Fresh made empanandas and pastries aglore. The Sausage Rolls are a delight. Sandwiches and soups are also on the menu but they are made with items like manchego cheeses and picadillo. mmmmmm. It is a family owned cafe with spanish charm!

This is one of my favorite places to stop when I'm downtown. I have only tried their empanadas because they are so.good I can't make myself order anything else.

Visited this amazing spot a few months back on a vacation with my boyfriend, and WOW! Every Saint Augustine guide that I looked at recommended Spanish Bakery & Cafe and they were right on the money. Tucked away with it's own little courtyard, the bakery offers ample sunny & shaded seating for you to enjoy your fresh goods and I was totally appreciative after a long day. The bakery/cafe itself is small, but they are churning out some amazing pastries and goods in the space they have. Service was quick, no issues there. We grabbed: 1 Beef Empanada, Picadillo, Crusty Bread and an Apple Turnover that was bigger than my face!! All were tasty!! I wished that the empanada had even more filling and maybe even a little extra spice for the Picadillo Stew, but we didn't leave a crumb so I guess that says it all! Spanish Bakery & Cafe is a must-enjoy spot on a budget, check it out!

Cute little cafe shack. I tried the beef empanada and was not satisfied. The empanada shell was bland and was a disservice to how good the ground beef was inside. They should consider changing the empanada shell to something savory to compliment their yummy beef. My partner enjoyed a Cuban sandwich panini and it was very good. Cute spot but I probably won't revisit.

I had the squash soup. It was as average. Chicken soup was decent. Empanada was poor quality. The bread was good.

We did the tour at the chocolate factories and were told we could get 10% off with our sticker. We love Cuban sandwiches and thought why not give it a try! It's sort of a shack out back of Whetstone and almost hidden. There are only outside tables, but they have umbrellas for shade. I've had quite a few different versions of the Cuban sandwich and I'll say this one is in the top 4. The only negative I can say is that they used cold cut slices of ham and I've had shaved ham from from the whole ham on other versions. The pork was tender, and there was plenty of mustard, it was not andry sandwich. The bread was toasted crispy, but yet was still tender in the middle. We also had soup and it was pretty good as well. Get a sandwich here, you will not go wrong!

Cool Spanish Style Bakery Authentic Spanish empanadas, tapas, sausage rolled in pastry, cinnamon rolls and peanut butter cookies. The small bakery building, officially named the Salcedo House, and the outside picnic tables underneath a shady cedar tree are owned by the University of Florida, which rents out roughly 30 historic state-owned properties scattered around the city. The bakery, started by Marge and Dewey Adelsperger approximately 38 years ago.

A delicious treasure lost. Thanks for everything.

One of the best cheap eats in St Augustine! It's walk up service, but there is plenty of outdoor seating. Soups, picadillo, salads, empanadas, cookies, and the best loaves of bread. They are all freshly made. On my last visit, I ordered the lunch combo. I selected the Caldo gallego (a good, warm, hearty soup made with white beans and chunks of ham) and it also included a bread roll, a drink and a cookie. The combo is the best value. Be sure to stop here whenever you're in town.

Small hidden shop in the historical of St.Augustine with a small, but very tasteful variety of savory and sweet treats! We chose the chicken empanadas to try and sat at one of the picnic tables set outside of the store. While we were savoring our food we noticed a tray of sweets coming out of mystery door from across the store that we soon realized was the kitchen. We could not hold our curiosity after a second tray came out the same door! Something freshly baked had just made it to the shelf and we had to know why it was! Candy Apple turnover and Guava cheese turnover had just come out so we got one of each to go. I couldn't resist their picadillo option and also had one to go without rice (you have the option to add rice to your picadillo!). Well we ate both later on, first the picadillo was so flavorful! A thick ground beef broth that warm up the insides and made it feel like home. So good! As dessert we shared the apple turnover that had a caramelized topping... The turnover dough was perfectly flaky and it tasted like perfection! It had the perfect amount of butter and that did not take over the taste of the dough. I will come back and try their montaditos and everything left from their menu! Gotta love St. Augus

Went at the end of the day and the empanadas are BOGO. Empanadas with Picadillo is a perfect lunch. Finish with a Guava turnover. Yummy and authentic.

Food: 3 Service: 3.5 Ambience: 3 Date/Time: 8/9/2016 3:30pm This place sits toward the back of other merchants on St George Street so you have to follow the little path back to the place. It's basically a fast food Spanish snack place where you order and are given your food there, then you go outside and sit at the picnic tables. The person behind the counter did the job but not with much pleasantry at all. Then again, it's just a snack place :-) The Chicken Empanadas and Picadillo (beef chili with no beans) was ok, but nothing to write home about. If you need a quick in between meal snack that isn't sweet, it's filling, but if you are looking for something more tasty and a little bit more friendly, I'd probably try one of the other places down the street.

This bakery had only outdoor seating which I didn't mind. I had the mentez and the Cuban sandwich. The Cuban sandwich was delicious with the spicy mustard sauce they had. It had a lot of meat in it and there was a proportionate amount of relish and cheese in it. The hot sauce also tasted pretty good with the sandwich as well. The mentez sandwich was alright, it was kinda too sweet with the meat which was okay but after a while I got bored of eating it and took the sandwich apart and only ate the meat and then the bread separately. Everything tasted better when it was separated because I personally didn't like the blend of the glaze with the meat. the glaze and bread tasted good together and the meat tasted good by itself or with the mustard sauce.

...is ok. I wanted to like this place more than I did. And I can't quite figure out if it is because it is anchored by tourist traps or what. Meh.

We had lunch here visiting while visiting St. Augustine. It was delicious! I had a beef empanada and a sausage dog. Both were very delicious so before I left I got a sweet potato tart to go. I had that later for dessert and it was very crispy and a sweet potato tasty.

Great lunch spot. Their lunch combos for $8 are a great deal. Everything was delicious - especially the bread. We had picadillo and a beef empanada and they were fantastic. It's a quaint and cozy hideaway spot that fits in beautifully with the historical nature of the area.