A Little Corner of Florence
Chef Simone Parisi grew up in Florence, cooked his way across Colorado, and then followed the coast south to St. Augustine Beach — bringing everything he learned with him.
Terra & Acqua | Our Story
About Terra & Acqua and Chef Simone Parisi
Chef Simone Parisi was born and raised in Florence, Italy. After opening and running two successful restaurants in Denver, Colorado, Parisi and Firenze a tavola, Chef Parisi relocated to St. Augustine Beach in 2015, craving a return to the coast, and opened Terra & Acqua.
Named an Extraordinary Chef of Florida's Historic Coast, Chef Parisi’s Northern Italian cuisine differs from the dishes typically found in Italian restaurants. His dishes feature fresh vegetables, high-quality olive oil, and thoughtful compositions, rather than heavy sauces and cheeses.
Two Restaurants in Denver
Before St. Augustine, Chef Parisi opened Parisi and Firenze a Tavola in Denver — two well-regarded Italian restaurants. When the pull toward the Florida coast grew strong enough, he headed south.
What Terra and Acqua Means
Terra is the land — handcrafted pasta, wood-fired pizza, grilled steak. Acqua is the water — grilled octopus, lobster ravioli, fresh catch from Florida's coast. Two words, one philosophy.
Made Here, Every Day
Most pasta is made in-house daily, and every pizza goes into a traditional wood-fired oven. As a Fresh From Florida member, the kitchen sources what's actually in season along the Northeast Florida coast.
Anastasia Island, Four Years In
At Sea Grove Town Center on Anastasia Island, steps from the Atlantic — recognized by Condé Nast Traveler, named an Extraordinary Chef of Florida's Historic Coast, and honored with OpenTable's Diner's Choice. The dog-friendly patio and private dining room seat up to 40 guests.
