St. Augustine, Fla. – River Restaurant Group, the Jacksonville‑based operator behind River & Post and River & Fort, is set to add another dining destination to the historic city’s waterfront. Co‑owner Jeff McCusker told local media that the company will open The Wharf, a seafood‑centric eatery, on the site formerly occupied by the shuttered Santa Maria restaurant.
Local entrepreneurs bring fresh options to the bayfront
McCusker, who runs the group with partner Bob Fleckenstein, said the new venue will feature a menu that highlights the region’s abundant marine harvests, from local shrimp and grouper to stone‑crab specialties. “We want to give residents and visitors a place where they can enjoy high‑quality, responsibly sourced seafood while taking in the beautiful views of the St. Johns River,” McCusker explained.
The decision to locate The Wharf on the former Santa Maria lot reflects a broader trend of revitalizing St. Augustine’s riverfront corridor. The city has seen a steady influx of new businesses aimed at boosting tourism and providing more dining choices for families and retirees alike.
What the community can expect
According to McCusker, The Wharf will offer a casual yet upscale atmosphere, with indoor seating and an outdoor patio that overlooks the water. The restaurant plans to employ local staff and source a significant portion of its ingredients from nearby fisheries and farms, supporting the regional economy and reinforcing the city’s commitment to traditional family‑run enterprises.
“Our goal is to create a family‑friendly environment where parents can enjoy a relaxed meal with their children, and where the community feels a sense of ownership,” said Fleckenstein. The partners emphasized that the menu will include kid‑approved options alongside more adventurous dishes for seasoned seafood lovers.
Timeline and next steps
Construction on the site is slated to begin later this fall, with an anticipated opening in the spring of 2027. The developers have secured the necessary permits from the St. Augustine Planning Department and are working closely with city officials to ensure the project aligns with local zoning regulations and waterfront development guidelines.
City officials have expressed optimism about the addition, noting that new restaurants can stimulate foot traffic and generate additional tax revenue that can be reinvested in public services.
About River Restaurant Group
River Restaurant Group operates several successful concepts across Northeast Florida, including River & Post in Jacksonville and River & Fort and SAINT in St. Augustine. The company’s portfolio focuses on delivering high‑quality food in welcoming settings that cater to families and community members.
The Wharf will join this growing lineup, further cementing the group’s presence in the region and offering St. Augustine residents another dining option that celebrates local flavors and family values.
Original reporting: Jacksonville Today — read the source article.
