Drake's Bistro

Since I've started working down in St. Augustine during the week, I've needed to start finding some of the off-the-beaten path, local places to patronize for lunch and get away from the all the fast food that's available along Route 1. I discovered Drake's within my first week or so of work and it's been on my rotation ever since. These folks make some delicious sandwiches. So delicious that there's always a chance that they'll sell out of something if you wait too late in the day to order. I'm not kidding! I had been wanting to try Drake's French Dip for weeks and every time that I ordered it, I'd always get told that they were sold out of roast beef. Of course, I would be disappointed, but definitely happy for them on the sales. It took a few weeks, but the day finally arrived when I ordered early enough and got to enjoy the French Dip. It definitely lives up to the hype. Aside from the amazing roast beef, Drake's offers a plethora of great sandwiches, salads, soups, and has even started offering breakfast. I've been slowly working my way through their menu and particularly enjoy the Italian Stallion, the muffaletta, and Reuben. I don't particularly care for loaded tots or fries, but you can load up your fries just like you would a baked potato.Lastly, I would be remiss to leave a review and not mention how awesome all of the servers are at Drake's. Every single one of them is consistently hustling, but always attentive and friendly.

This tiny restaurant was located walking distance from the house we rented whilst in St. Augustine. We walked by it several times noting the maroon awning out front. As the exterior doesn't really let you know much about the restaurant, I finally looked it up on Yelp only to discover that it is an extremely popular deli/restaurant. With that knowledge we decided to have lunch there. We were so glad to arrive just a little after 12 noon as the place was already hopping. There are very few tables inside...(there is a big take-out business here too) so felt fortunate to have snagged a remaining table.There is a considerable menu of sandwiches from which to choose. I decided to go with the Monte Cristo which I have not seen on a menu in a long time but it is a sandwich I have always liked.This was a little different than the ones I have had in years past as there was a fruit jam on the sandwich versus having a little pot of maple syrup in which to dip bits of your sandwich in. However, it was delicious...I love the salty (ham) and sweet combo that this sandwich brings and I was not disappointed with this one.Tom got a Reuben which he enjoyed very much.The tables are close together here although at our particular perch I did not feel hemmed in nor particularly close to the table adjacent to us. I think that varies so if you are still someone who post-pandemic doesn't want to be too near others, you should consider take-out.Our server was very, very busy but extremely sweet and as attentive as she could be...we were not unhappy.There is no alcohol served here. We both had waters and I had an unsweetened iced tea as well. I would most certainly return and I would definitely consider take-out for a picnic lunch on one of the gorgeous beaches here!

My husband and I ate a late lunch here while on vacation and it was one of the best meals we've had in St Augustine. He got the Rueben (best he's ever had) and I got the Monte Cristo which was absolutely delicious. We also got tots and pasta salad, both freshly made and so good. The service was attentive and friendly. We were concerned coming 30 minutes before closing that we would not be well received, but we were pleasantly surprised in the hospitality. They have a large selection of sandwiches. I wish we had found them sooner on our trip so we could try more things. I would happily eat lunch here every day if I had known. We will definitely eat here again when we're in St Augustine.

The sandwich's are large but sooo good. I had the Horsey Cheesesteak and it had just the right amount of horseradish on it. I also had a side of Macaroni salad and it was wonderful. My husband had the Pig and Cheesy which he liked a lot. The workers are super friendly. The owner works as hard as her employees so you know she really cares. Our server was Lillia and she was super good and attentive for as busy as they were. It isn't super big but that is part of the charm. Will definitely go back.

Food service and ambiance Really friendly and accommodating!Today we're trying breakfast!

We stumbled across this place while on vacation. The ladies working were all so friendly and the food!!! The sandwich selection is amazing and unique. Unfortunately it was our last day, otherwise we would've gone back for more!!! Do yourself a favor and don't miss out on this place.

Drake's Bistro is a gem of a restaurant! I have had their Eggs Benedict several times and it's always delicious with their hollandaise sauce. My husband has had their omelette and skillets for breakfast. We went to lunch last week and I had their Rueben which was piping hot (that's how I like my food to be served) perfectly grilled bread and generous portion of corned beef! I like sauerkraut and preferred a little more. So good! My husband ordered the muffuletta and he said it was delicious! The serving portion was so generous we each took half of our sandwiches home and ate them for dinner. So many items I'd like to try. Don't miss out on friendly and attentive servers, quick service and delicious food. Drake's is a must if you want great food.

This was a "lunch place" but recently added a breakfast service as well. We haven't been here for breakfast but the sandwiches and soup are amazing. I usually order a bleu turkey which is a turkey sandwich with bleu cheese. Fantastic, but not low calorie! The staff is very friendly and the service is excellent.

The monte cristo delivered a perfect combination of sweet and savory, best sandwich I've had to date.Service is amazing, the ladies there are always attentive and taking care of you. The atmosphere really feels like a small town sandwich shop, making you feel cozy and at home

Probably the best French dip i've ever had!!! ordered through DoorDash and although i live less than a mile away it came piping hot....like as if i ordered in house!!! Very impressed and definitely will be ordering more