Between 1880-1910, Fernandina’s docks were among the busiest in the south. Basking in her heyday, she welcomed ships from the far corners of the globe. Of the many saloons that lined the lively streets of the harbour district – and there were over 20 at the time – only one bore the distinction of being the “Shipcaptain’s Bar.” and that was the Palace. Originally constructed as a haberdashery in 1878, Louis G. Hirth bought the Prescott building in 1903 and replaced shoes with booze and named it the Palace Saloon.
The Palace continues to bring folks together. Old friends still gather here rubbing elbows with passing ship’s Captains and local well-to-do. And once news is swapped and formalities concluded, they get down to the more serious business of dustin’ the sea spray off their jackets and enjoying the long-awaited shoreside beer. Go ahead, belly up to the bar, and as the bartender slides a mug of suds to you, the ghosts from ten decades past join in drinking to your health.
Not impressed!!
We 4 women thought we needed to stop for a break and rest. The bartender guy was too busy to wait on you when you walked up to the bar; he was talking to the people at the end. He finally came over, I asked what was in the punch? “ Everything “. I said okay, I will try one. Premixed rum juice in a souvenir cup. I drank it because I paid for it!! My sister asked about the drink special that was on the chalkboard by the door??? “ What drink special?” There was booze in our drinks, non- punch drinks cheap! Service; rude! Tables not cleaned off or wiped off! Toilet / bathroom was filthy!! We will not be back!! Yuck!!
Would't go back
Went in on a weekday around 3:00 PM, were going to get lunch. Only employee seemed to be a woman behind the bar. After waiting on a few people at the bar she looked at us, didn't say anything, and walked into a backroom. We waited a while, she never came back, then left!
worst place on the Island
First of all I am a native to the island and this has been a great place to go, but I went for the first time in a long time and will NEVER go again. Just because of the staff they have now. From the rude from the door, the young lady checking ID, bouncers, and bartenders. The island is known for hospitality and this is not the case here. Bartender having less than 15 people at the bar, and ignoring you for over 20 mins...while jumping on bouncers hugging them, while waiting to be served, to serving others in front of you that comes up after you.....to slaming my card in the bar with tab.All of this within 30 mins of being in the bar, The lady that was bartendering would only wait on men, she was SUPER RUDE...I only had one drink while there and left...I am 50yrs old and in hospitality, I have never been treated so bad ANYWHERE on the island. Then when I checked my statement, I asked charged 2 different amounts when I only ordered ONE time and one drink...if you dont know the new bartenders personally or staff...dont go here you will not have a good time and they will charge you for fake perchance. Such a disappointment. I know so many of the veteran bartenders and I am very well liked, never been put out or caused and disruption. I am never rude and tip very genously. No Excuse for my experience at what use to be one of the safest and best places on the Island..
Oldest Bar, Must See
Stopped by to have a drink at this historic establishment. It’s supposedly the oldest bar in Florida. So glad we went. Leslie was very knowledgeable about a different vodka I was looking at. She answered my questions and helped me select a cocktail. Had the best mojito ever made with rosemary and lavender vodka! My husband had their famous “pirate’s punch.” The nostalgia and ambiance was inviting. Come by and check it out because you won’t be disappointed.
Fun stop
We had to stop at the oldest bar in Florida. It was for a quick beer in the middle of the day . A little bit of beer a little bit of music-all good!