Visitors may discover a rare treasure in the heart of St. Augustine's historic district when they visit what is now O.C. White's Seafood & Spirits. This delightful bar and restaurant, located on the waterfront overlooking the Bridge of Lions and City Yacht Marina, was named The Worth Mansion in the early 1800s.
It was constructed in 1791 by Don Miguel Ysnardy, who was a merchant ship owner, military official and building contractor. Among the many buildings he constructed in St. Augustine was the St. Augustine Cathedral. Ysnardy maintained the home until 1799. The building subsequently served as one of the first hotels in the City. In the 1800s, the home was bought by Mrs. Margaret S. Worth, the widow of Major General William J. Worth, one of the most important figures in American military history.
He is most noted for his battles in the second Seminole War and for leading Americans to victory in Monterrey, Mexico during the Mexican-American War. He later commanded the first amphibious assault in U. S. Military history at Veracruz and was a key figure in the capture of Mexico City. In 1948, the home was purchased by George L. Potter, the one-time owner of Potter's Wax Museum.
The building replicates the Worth House as it appeared in the mid-nineteenth century. In recent years, David White acquired the home and established the fine restaurant you can now enjoy. White says that he and his staff have even had "haunted experiences" in the old mansion, especially on the second floor. In the restaurant, visitors enjoy daily chef creations, fresh local seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta specialties, a great children's menu, happy hour, and nightly entertainment. This is casual dining, seven days a week.
O. C. White's Seafood & Spirits
(904) 824-0808
118 Avenida Menendez
St. Augustine, FL
