Cortesse's Bistro reopens in St. Augustine under new ownership

Cortesse's is back in St. Augustine, under new ownership and with a new lease on life.

Goce Sipinkoski, aka "Mr. G," has been in the restaurant business for nearly four decades, with successful ventures in both the metro New York and Naples, Florida, regions.    

When Sipinkoski heard about the vacant property at 172 San Marco Ave., once a landmark eatery in town, he and his two brothers/business partners decided to turn back the clock and reopen a local old favorite, but with a facelift and some new vitality.

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The result: Cortesse's Bistro, open for just over a week now at one of the city's most prominent and highly trafficked locations at the intersection of San Marco Avenue, San Carlos Avenue and the roundabout leading to the Vilano Bridge.

Cortesse's was open for more than 10 years at the space, which was built in 1920, and closed in 2011.

The new concept is similar to its original namesake but with more of an emphasis on fresh Mediterranean cuisine, such as seafood, pastas, greens and beans. Most of the ingredients are sourced locally, including the restaurant's own herb garden.

The term bistro, in this case, Sipinkoski said, refers to the crafted approach to each dish, be it their bevy of bruschetta, charcuterie platters, salads, homemade meatballs (a combination of beef, pork and lamb), pasta, fish or meat dishes.

Some of the most popular items include the Macedonia (Sipinkoski's homeland)-style "Shopska" salad, a chopped confection of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, parsley, olive oil and balsamic vinegar topped with feta cheese; the escargot appetizer; risotto; paella; and any seafood dish on the menu.

With the site vacant for awhile, the new owners put a lot of time and expense into the renovation, especially the courtyard which features al fresco dining, tropical landscaping and statuary fountains. A fire about a decade ago also required foundational repairs of the restaurant which seats about 100.

In addition to the courtyard, another outdoor patio in the back is available for dining, and the restaurant also caters to special occasions.

The new Cortesse's is a family operation, with brother Zlate Sipinkoski serving as executive chef; his wife serving as sous chef; brother Michael handling marketing; and others, like Miguel Barrios (who has been part of the Sipinkoski team for more than 20 years) almost as close as family.

Groce Sipinkoski said the staff also has put in a lot of hours — "14- or 15-hour days sometimes" — to ensure a good debut.

When asked about the key to success for a restaurant, Sipinkoski said, "Wherever you go, it's about the talent, the best service, great food, a good following."

In this case, many in that following are locals who, like the host said, "fell in love here and want to come back and capture that."

Cortesse's Bistro

Hours: Vary, but with lunch and dinner services daily

Address: 172 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine

Phone: 904-217-0705

Online: cortesses-bistro.com