Barley Republic — Restaurant in Florida

So I went to "the Republic" on "tender Tuesday" to eat these raved about chicken tender I had heard from my Lyft driver Brady that they were the best! So I walk in and the host, a young boy maybe 15 tells me we'll mumbles to me with a grown that both bars are open so I choose upstairs and sit down. The locals at the bar were not pleased that I chose to sit in the only seat available, total of four chairs one open in the middle with about four feet of space between them so I thought it ok. It wasn't. Before I could order my drink they were paying out and leaving very loudly letting me know that I was not welcome and because of that they were going somewhere else. Without exactly saying it, let's just say it was clear but had it not been my interaction with the obviously perturbed bartender was. She ask me if I needed s drink menu, rolling her eyes as if to say, she just knew I was going to order a crazy blender concocktion that would cause her extra work and valuable time. I ordered a vodka- seven with a twist and thanked her. Her dimeanor was only then slightly better and my drink.... I wish I could say it was great, it wasn't. I wanted a vodka seven with a twist. Not a vodka with a splash of seven if that wasn't soda, and my lime yes she asked! Was a stripped clean lemon skin floating in my drink! I wanted a lime. All of it, wedge of coarse. Not a faint almost not there taste if lemon skin! What the hell is that all about!?! And after all this, she informed me that she stops selling food upstairs at 11, when I had the audacity to ask for a menu. But I can move to the other bar and order there! I wanted the tenders you know "tender Tuesday", but she did not even ask. The price of my s* drink did not break the bank however $6.99 I think plus tip $8.99. came in under 10 I was impressed but that was the only thing I was impressed with. I then left same Lyft driver picked me up very friendly very nice was shocked to hear of my experience because prior to him picking me up I'd had a similar experience to other places except for the first one was closed even though online it said it was open until 12:00 and the second place I didn't even make it in the front door before I was told they were closed and it was 11 no 10:30. And as I turned to walk away the bartender said I didn't look like I needed a drink anyway to his other patrons at the bar this was the pelican pelican Bay or pelican Pier something like that if not not worth remembering won't ever go back. Here in St Augustine they used to be known for being friendly quaint little town. Not So much anymore Dorothy not only does the customer service suck but their personalities do as well. I think the bars and restaurants in this area need to have a sit-down chat with some of their service employees remind them that the customers always right and they get paid to be friendly end of story you are in the service industry you are to serve not serve attitude or in my case just be a complete b. Cuz yes that is what they made me they turned me into a complete b** I had a bad time and I won't go back hopefully they fix this and other people don't have the same experience, but I don't know I think they're pretty used to be an ugly to people, I don't think they like tourists but guess what I'm not a tourist, I moved here 4 days ago, how do you...

Our family was visiting from Clearwater and loved that that this was neighborhood pub (which we like to support local establishments). When we arrived we were told that our wait would be a 35 minute. As we were waiting we perused the area noticing a couple of empty tables. However, we were seated in 25 minutes. After being seated a server did not approach our table for over ten minutes. Servers kept passing us as if we weren't at the table. During our wait there were several smokers on the patio smoking and the smoke was blowing in our direction. Although, we were technically outside on the deck the seating area is an extension of the restaurant where people eat and the patrons should not have to endure smelling this while eating. When we were approached by our server we instructed her that we all have made our selection and that we were ready to order. The server was very rushed and annoyed than rolled her eyes probably because the elderly people in our party was taking too long. After our order was placed we waited for an additional 20 minutes and during that time noticed that one of the empty tables when we first arrived was seated. The party had the same amount people as were in our party and there order was soon taken. As we waited we inquired about our food and were informed the kitchen was behind. We than asked if possible for a plate of fries to hold us until our meal arrived with again a not so pleasant reaction from our server. As we continued to wait for another 10 minutes the table that was seated during our wait received their food. We brought this to the attention of the hostess and was given the same answer as before that the kitchen was behind. It was at this point a plate of fries was brought to the table, 10 minutes later we decided to leave. As we were leaving our food arrived we asked the server for a to go box with yet another discussed look! The to go boxes appeared instantaneous with no utensils however, our check was there with the additional item for a side of fries. WHAT NO COMP….. I paid the bill and left with no bags for our to go boxes because they did not have any and no TIP for the server as I did not have any gratitude for her and the restaurants terrible service and attitude! Perhaps it was a bad night for the restaurant but for our family...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Hidden Gem in the Heart of St. Augustine!

If you're looking for a place that feels like home, serves up unforgettable food, pours perfect pints, and offers the best vibes in the historic district, Barley Republic absolutely delivers.

Tucked away just off the main drag, Barley Republic is everything you want in a neighborhood pub with a St. Augustine twist—laid-back, welcoming, and full of character. The Irish-American menu is creative, comforting, and seriously crave-worthy.

🍔 Incredible Food

Do yourself a favor and try the Bison Burger or the Corned Beef Egg Rolls—absolute game-changers. The Shepherd’s Pie is rich, hearty, and perfectly seasoned. Everything comes out hot, fresh, and made with clear attention to detail. Even their brussels sprouts deserve a standing ovation!

🍻 Stellar Drinks

Whether you're into craft beer, Irish whiskey, or a well-mixed cocktail, Barley’s got you covered. Their rotating taps are always interesting, with plenty of local brews and rare finds. The bartenders know their stuff and make great recommendations if you're not sure what to order.

🎶 Chill Atmosphere & Live Music

The vibe is cozy and eclectic inside, but the back courtyard is pure magic—especially in the evening with lights strung overhead and acoustic music playing. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time in the best possible way. Even during live shows, it’s never too loud—just enough to enhance the atmosphere.

🧡 Friendly Service

Every server and bartender we’ve met has been incredibly friendly and down-to-earth. It’s clear they enjoy being there, and it adds to the relaxed, “come-as-you-are” feel of the whole place. Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, you’re treated like family.

✅ Final Verdict:

Barley Republic is a must-visit in St. Augustine. Whether you're out for a casual dinner, a date night, a solo pint, or a group gathering, it hits the mark every time. Great food, great people, great music, and great drinks—what more could you want?

10/10. Will absolutely be back again...