FWT Magazine Issue 5 Fall 2016 | Page 95

FLORIDASHISTORICCOAST.COM showcases local and international artists’ work including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewelry. The moment you step into this Mediterranean revival-style building, you’ll know you’re someplace special. The lobby transports you to an ancient era with Moroccan frescos, exquisite tapestries and luxurious chandeliers that feel more like a palace than a hotel. But don’t let that fool you – the hotel is blessed with the best of all modern day amenities. Each of the 138 guestrooms has its own unique style with furnishings and décor fit for a king and queen. If you’re feeling especially royal, the suites are the way to go. The Ponce de Leon Suite is a two-story tower suite with a striking, wrought iron four-poster bed and panoramic views of the historic district and St. Augustine’s picturesque bay. The Flagler Suite is a luxurious three-story tower suite with two bedrooms and a living room offering views of the magnificent Lightner Museum. The third floor bedroom features colorful glasswork windows from the hotel’s original construction in 1888. Spanish Fusion Cuisine St. Augustine is a true culinary adventure as many rising chefs have descended on the city because of its welcoming mix of cultures – everything from Spanish to Cajun to Caribbean. Columbia Restaurant is one of the city’s oldest and most popular restaurants achieving recognition as “One of America’s Most Historic Restaurants” by USA Today. The Spanish/Cuban menu features Paella a la Valenciana, Red Snapper Alicante, Pompano en Papillot, Roast Pork A la Cubana and other international flavors. The Floridian is an old-school restaurant featuring “Innovative Southern Fare” like grit cakes, fried green tomatoes, local shrimp and St. Augustine’s prized Datil peppers. Michael’s Tasting Room is a contemporary Spanish restaurant serving traditional and inspired tapas, paired with an award-winning wine list. Appetizers include queso Manchego and ceviche tostones while main courses feature Spanish preparations of chicken, shrimp, lamb, lobster and more. Beth Graham Travel is one of my passions, so I try to take at least one exciting trip each year. It’s about finding the things that feed your soul and make them happy. I do the things that make me happy – some people might call that selfish. I love to eat good food so I often indulge myself with challenging recipes and menus that satisfy my love for cooking and trying new flavors. I have an amazing husband, a college-aged son who is a classical pianist with his sights set on Hollywood, a vegan daughter who is passionate about life, a crazy happy yellow lab and a cat I brought home from Italy. FALL 2016 fwt 95