Restaurateurs Nathan Stuart and Margo Klar are betting on it. The couple, known for running several popular North Florida restaurants, plans to open a new seafood restaurant, Snapper’s, in Vilano Beach.

A New Dining Destination

According to county records, Stuart and Klar want to open Snapper’s at 165 Vilano Road. The location was previously home to Tropicana Cuban, but their plan is to expand the 2,732-square-foot space to 4,900 square feet.

The couple already owns Outback Crab Shack, Fish House & Oyster Co., Tally House & Oyster Bar, and The Boathouse—all successful restaurants. Now, they’re looking to help Vilano Beach grow into a top dining destination.

“They’re almost making like a little San Marco,” Stuart told the Jacksonville Daily Record, referring to the walkable area in Jacksonville. “It’s like a walking district.”

A Modern Take on a Historic Spot

Their company, Fish House Holdings, bought the old concrete stucco building for $950,000 in 2021. Built in 1958, the structure will be redesigned in an Art Deco style, similar to the historic buildings on Miami’s Ocean Drive.

Renderings show plans for a main dining area, full bar, and event space with seating for 194 guests.

Designers expect most patrons to walk or bike to the restaurant, thanks to its central location.

More Restaurants Moving In

Chef Michael Lugo also announced that his well-known Spanish restaurant, Michael’s, will move from St. Augustine to a new space at the Hyatt Place in Vilano Beach in February.

With new restaurants, a walkable layout, and growing interest, Vilano Beach might just become St. Johns County’s next big dining hub.