Verducci's Pizzeria Trattoria

7736 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach, FL. Tel. 727-363-790

The old Fortunato's was recently renovated to become the new Verducci's on St. Pete Beach and it's a definite improvement. The bigggest change is a very creative and appetizing new menu, thanks to it's Neapolitan owners. A welcome addition to the beaches. Listed under each category on the menu; appetizers, entrees, salads, pizzas, subs, strombolis and calzones is a large selection.

Of course, there's still work to be done. What's the saying....Rome wasn't built in a day? The servers, though pleasant, are obviously in training. One of our inquiries that needed confirmation from the boss was...Do you serve Pellegrino or Perrier? The answer was no, but after a minute or two the answer was.. Yes, we do! A definite desire to serve, but still learning.

Our three entrees, Gnocci, Shrimp, Eggplant Parmesan were consumed without hesitation. The salad was large so that went with us. The wine list is a good one and our choices were excellent. We spent a little more, but you could probably get a nice meal for under $20.

One thing the owners must think about improving is the entrance. A large take out counter with lots of paper cups and supplies greet you at the door occupying most of the first room, but you'll be asked immediately where you'd like to sit, so don't be put off. Stay and choose the second room and you'll be fine. A restaurant in St. Petersburg recently closed because it had an obvious take out counter at the door concealing the wonderful ambiance and delicious dining further inside. Very sad.

Oh, and try the pizza. I've been told that it is authentic.

I like their slogan too... Cuciniamo con amore. I think it's true.

Marchand's Bar and Grill

501 5th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, FL Tel. 727-824-8072

Enjoy what the wealthy enjoy when they visit your hometown St. Petersburg.

Currently, the Vinoy Renaissance Resort is celebrating the opening year of the original Vinoy Park Hotel in 1925 with a 3 course dinner for only, you guessed it, $19.25. every evening from 5-6:30pm.

The Classic Dining Menu offers a choice between two starters, two entrees and two desserts every evening from 5pm to 6:30pm. Good eating and we ordered a bottle of a nice chardonnay at $30. Split 4 ways, it was a little cheaper than by the glass.

The service, however, was lacking. I'd best begin at the beginning......our party of 4 arrived at 6PM, one of the first to be seated. No waiting. We were swiftly shown to a table in what I considered to be Siberia. We were quickly moved to a table in the main area, much more lively and the AC was eventually turned up. Arriving early we thought there'd be plenty of time for us to catch the JazzJamm show in the ballroom at 7:30pm. However, our entree arrived exactly one hour after being seated. That left a half hour to eat the entree, dessert and pay the bill. Silly me paid in cash so waiting for change put me another 15 minutes behind my friends who dashed off to make the 7:30 performance.

Would I do it again? Ummm... maybe if I sat on the other side of the room there might be servers who served. I don't know.

The Burg Bar and Grill

1752 Central Ave., St.  Petersburg, FL
Tel: (727) 894-2874

The warmth of this small establishment drew my friend and I in on a rainy night recently. The Burg Bar and Grill is known for its "Cheers"esque atmosphere and juicy burgers, it is bound to become one of your favorites. The menu offers not only burgers, but cheese steaks, and Greek specialties including soups, salads and spinach pies. A good selection of craft brews and less routine wines. The crew that started this place originated at the Hangar Restaurant (reviewed here) and brought to it a healthy dose of attentive customer service. Not that I struck up a conversation with anyone, but the atmosphere made you feel like you were a part of something. I had the Angus burger which was juicy and well seasoned. It was served with homemade potato chips. I felt happy and satisfied when I left there, sure to return. Prices range from $3.50 - $7.99

Hours: Daily 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Portofino

5035 34th St. South, St. Petersburg, FL. Tel. 727-864-2800

Portofino claims to be an Italian Ristorante! And serves a wide range of italian dishes. The menu is extensive so it's been divided into Antipasti, Zupppe, Pizza, Pollo, Vitello, Steak, Casseroles, Pasta, Fettucini. And that's just the dinner menu. Lunches are more of the brick oven variety: stromboli, calzone, subs. and different forms of parmigiana. I think you get the idea.

The decor is old world charm. No, not many restaurants in Italy look like this anymore.

I had dined at Portofino many years ago and never returned. Now I'm here to say, I think they've gotten their act together.

A close friend told me to give it another try but I didn't. However, last week I was feeling a little under the weather and this same friend was ordering Portofino take out and telephoned to ask what I wanted. What a sweetheart! I politely resisted at first but then let her order for me and the meal was so good. Delicious Homemade Vegetable Soup, definitely homemade with a delicious broth. The entree was Chicken Piccata, with a sauce of butter, lemon and white wine. It seemed a little light on the white wine, but because my stomach wasn't feeling that great it felt just right. A small, very fresh tossed salad and I was happy.

Portofino is a small neighborhood restaurant, with a lunch menu that is very reasonable. One can have a delicious lunch for less than $20. Not so for dinner. That's going to cost you at least $30.

I'm indebted to my friend. I've been lucky with friends lately.

Gatsby's of St. Petersburg

At Grayl's Hotel
340 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL
Tel: 727-896-1080

You may have felt the same curiosity I did as you walked or drove by this quaint spot on Beach Drive. Certainly it's within a stone's throw of the Museum of Fine Arts and the new Chilhuily Gallery, but I often overlook it as a place to stop. I always seem to have something else on my agenda when I'm in that area, until that is, I made it a point to meet Java there recently. Gatsby's is part of the Historic Grayl Hotel which is reminiscent of the boutique hotels I stayed in during my travels in Europe. It was built in 1922 and a quick trip inside (we chose to sit outside on this lovely afternoon) takes you on a little time travel excursion. The bar looks like a great place to hang, advertising several trendy drinks I want to try. The lunch menu is comprised of sandwiches, salads, soups and pizza. I labored over the menu, which is plain site of anyone driving by, ending up with the pulled pork wrap (wet.) This good and plenty sandwich was stuffed with well seasoned meat and slaw, peppered with caribbean flavors and kidney beans. I enjoyed the macaroni salad, but not the potato salad that accompanied it. There was plenty of food for a noon meal. The prices were normal for this stretch of Beach Drive, appetizers start at $5.95 and entrees from $7.95. Dinner offers steaks and seafood, as well as pastas and classic American dishes, such as meatloaf, with a new twist. Dinner prices range from $8.95 to $29.95. The wait staff is among the friendliest in downtown and is one of the reasons I wanted to stop in. Someone always greets me as I walk by the hostess station. Make no mistake about it, the owners of this unique restaurant want you there and expect you to stay a while.

Cool Moose Cafe

Okemo Marketplace, Ludlow, VT. Tel. 802-975-0041

A Vermont Outing

If you've ever skied in New England you'll be familiar with Vermont's Okemo mountain. The Cool Moose Cafe sits right at the entrance to Okemo. Lunch, dinner and most recently a buffet breakfast for $8.95 can be yours to warm those insides before you take to the lift. Oh, you don't ski?That's okay because this small town has its busiest season in the summer. Fishing, hiking, swimming, it's definitely an all-around family vacation sitting high in the Green Mountains. The views are spectacular.

Now the menu at the Cool Moose is very unusual....too many items have the word Moose in them like Flying Moose Wings and Pointless Moose Fingers. No, the Blue Moose Burger isn't really moose but beef, chicken or veggie. Different sizes too. Of course the Cool Moose sandwiches are just about whatever you want them to be.

Prices are very reasonable for these items. Anywhere between $5 and $8.

Let's not forget Happy Hour everyday from 4 to 5 in the saloon. Oh, you thought those were only out West.

Accomodations vary in Ludlow and the regulars seem to have their favorites. We stayed at the Pointe Castle Hill Hotel that comes equipped with hot tub, indoor pool, game room and a large welcoming fireplace as you enter. The Resort and Spa are located behind the hotel. Two beautiful facilities, very upscale. I had a facial in their Spa but alas, it was just ordinary.

Chances are you'll find a room here without too much advance notice, but know that this is one of Vermont's most popular vacation spots so be sure to phone ahead.

Straight Up Night Club

15 South Blvd of the Presidents, Sarasota, FL. Tel. 941-388-1555

Located just off of St. Armands Circle and above the restaurant '15 South' is a terrific old night club. My friends and I went on a Monday evening, did a little shopping around the Circle, climbed the stairs and arrived just after 7PM. Judging by the crowd already seated, this is a favorite of Sarasota jazz fans. The music was already good when from the audience came a string of entertainers, each one better than the last to either sing or play for us. So much talent in one room. My friends had been there before but I was blown away.

Of course we ate and drank while making merry. There's a special menu with a choice of 3 meals, each at $20. The main menu is extensive and an entree can be had for as little as $17 for baked eggplant or as high as $35 for a veal dish.

If you're not into jazz just choose another night. Latin, pop or rock.

Pick your poison and have fun!

St. Petersburg Ale House

7901 Martin Luther King St N, St Petersburg, FL 33702

Tel: 727-217-9206

It was an emergency meeting amongst friends in need of a glass of wine that brought us to the St. Petersburg Ale House. Just needed to talk about the days events and it was close by. This a big place that houses not only a restaurant, but a full service bar and pool room. Lots of people show up to watch sports and meet friends. Families come here too, but it has a very bar like atmosphere and not like a kid friendly British pub environment. The food is plentiful and tastes good, though my advice is to stick with classic fried favorites like fish or chicken sandwiches and fries, or their steaks. Our waitress was attentive and friendly. No need to ask for refills on tea since they give you a gallon sized glass. Prices range from $5 to $20. Check their web site for daily specials, they are open for lunch and dinner.

Lee's Crab Trap I

5611 US Highway 19, Palmetto, Fl. Tel. 941-722-6255

First, no this is not in St. Pete., but just over the Skyway bridge. Call before you go or use Mapquest for directions. It's really quite easy to get there, a very popular place for St. Petersburg residents with an good reputation. It also has an excellent location on Rt. 19 with no competition in sight.

I'd been there years ago and then dined there again last night with 3 friends. It's a very warm comfortable environment and much cleaner than I remembered. The decor is dated, with dark wood paneling and booths of the same color. No padding on those benches so just be prepared. To make up for that, a young waitress provided excellent service. The menu is extensive. Plastic covered pages in a binder once again give you that out-of-date feeling. This is one of those old fashioned fish houses where shellfish is a priority. Whether you're in the mood for just an appetizer, an entree that comes with a host of sides or a sandwich and salad, you can find it served with your favorite shellfish. My friends ordered their usual Crab cake served with baked potato and coleslaw. I was surprised to learn that the cost was a few dollars more than my Tilapia fish platter for $10.95. They both agreed that the cake was smaller than usual. In general, however, the pricing is very reasonable and there are daily dinner specials on the last page (why not the front page?) that are less expensive. I was satisfied with my platter but really preferred the sides of coleslaw and sweet potato to the fish.....not tasty at all. Next time I'll choose another dish. Yes, I would go again if I'm passing by, but wouldn't go out of my way.

Thirsty Marlin

351 West Bay Drive, Largo, FL 33770
Tel: 727-586-3474

I went to a holiday gathering at the Thirsty Marlin last night and was very pleased with the food, atmosphere, and staff. The interior of the restaurant is clean and decorated in a tropical theme that is fun but not overdone. The staff was very friendly and for our group of 30, management supplied plenty of help. The menu is part Florida seafood and part Caribbean flair. I ordered the Jambalaya which was full of  shrimp, jerk chicken, Andouille sausage, roasted red peppers and yellow rice with a light sauce. The menu said it is a true Marlin original, “brought back from Romora Bay Club in the West Indies.” It wasn't spicy or typical Lousiana fare if that's what you're used to, but it was a tasty meal. It was definitely more on the Caribbean side of the flavor spectrum. There is a full menu of appetizers, specialty drinks, burgers, saldads, sandwiches and entrees. Something for everyone and comfortable seating for whatever size group. I sampled their salad on another occasion and found the greens fresh and plentiful. Desserts are available and tasty too. I had the Heath Bar Pie which was a nice topper for my entree choice. I visited the Largo location, but there is also the original location in Palm Harbor. Hours are 11:30 am - 12:00 am.  Their online ordering system is convenient, user friendly and unique among the many restaurant web sites I have visited. Locals tell me to look for the nightly specials and to try the grouper nuggets. Next time, I will do so.

ABC Chinese Seafood Restaurant

2705 54th Avenue North #3, St. Petersburg, FL 33714
727-522-1888

ABC Chinese Seafood Restaurant was recommended to me by a stranger and touted as the best Chinese restaurant in St. Petersburg. I ventured in for a second visit recently to partake in their exotic, flavorful dishes. The strip mall atmosphere leaves a lot to be desired, but the place was full on Saturday night. A quick glance around the dining room found about half the diners were Asian families. They were seated at round tables with turntables in the middle laden with fish, rice and veggies. A second glance a short time later found fish bones, specks of rices and satisfied smiles all around the table and what seemed like agreeable conversation about the meal. I ordered the basil chicken, which a friend told me was delicious. The dish is served in a bowl and is really more of a soup. Tender chicken is surrounded by tomato, basil, pineapple and other vegetables. This is a well balanced sweet and spicy meal. I tossed rice in there too (sadly no brown rice is available) but it could be a low carb Chinese food alternative for dieters for whom Chinese meals are off limits. My husband ordered the Salt and Pepper Seafood platter which was fried, simple and delicious. The quality of the seafood is excellent and the prices reasonable for the level of expertise going into the finished product. Prices range from $4 to approximately $18.99 (unless you want a whole Peking Duck for $34.99.) Don't let the exterior deter you from this great place, the interior and the staff are warm and welcoming. Open for dinner only 5:00 pm - 12:00 am Monday to Thursday and 5:00 pm - 1:00 am Friday to Sunday.

Harvey's 4th Street Grill

3121 4th Street. North, St. Petersburg, FL. Tel. 727-821-6516

Harvey's is one of those old neighborhood hangouts that has become an icon. A family restaurant/bar that's on every local's radar but definitely not the place to go if you're dieting. The menu has too many very tempting high carb dishes to choose from. On the other hand if you're looking for a homey environment, this is a fun place. Did I mention the long saloon style bar and what they call the 'Full Moon Party'? It's an evening that features Maine lobster and entertainment. I haven't experienced it but I know people who have and they've told me it's a blast.

Their specialties are grouper, shell fish and fresh steak from Iowa which, they claim, is never frozen. I've always kept my orders simple and have tried their salads and burgers, all very fresh and ranging in cost from $6 to $8. To be honest, to me thishas a diner-like feel to it with Platters, a Kid's Menu and desserts like Mud and Key Lime Pies and Cheesecake. Entrees come with garlic bread, cole slaw, etc. Prices range between $8 and $17. There's even an inexpensive Late Night Menu. Their ambience is a little different from the other places we've written about so maybe try their Sunday brunch, it looks like family fun.

Fortunato's Italian Market

Tyrone Mall
6901 22 Avenue North Ste. 780, St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Tel: 727-381-4888

In my quest for the perfect pizza crust, which for me is thin and crispy, I happened into pizza heaven at the mall. It may have been my Black Friday hunger or the desire not to lose an excellent parking spot, but I think I had one of the best slices at Fortunato's since I've been to NYC. My slice had sundried tomatoes in addition to other veggies and a creamy ricotto cheese. The slice my friend had was sicilian style, chock full of veggies and sausage. The crust is heated in a small oven that crisps the bottom very nicely. A satisfying crunch preceeds the lively flavors of the toppings. It may not be Ray's, but it certainly hit the spot after a long day of bargain hunting. To think I turned my nose up at this fare on my many trips to Dillards. Not too smart on my part. Slices ranges from $2.59 to $3.39, with additional toppings at $.35. A whole pie, which is what I'm now dreaming of, costs between $8.99 and $21.99 (the high end price is for stuffed crust.) This place is worth a try.

Guppy's on the Beach Grill and Bar

1701 Gulf Blvd. Indian Rocks Beach, FL. 33785 Tel. 727-593-2032

Since Dune has decided to review restaurants in North Pinellas let me chime in with Guppy's Grill. First, don't get your hopes up. They are NOT on the beach, rather across the street. Like so many restaurants in Florida, they would LOVE to be ON the beach, but alas.....

Now, about the atmosphere, very nice. I like to sit outside in their very casual and pleasant environment. White plastic tables and chairs, nothing fancy. I've spent many a lunch hour on Guppy's patio over the years and never once disappointed.

If you're into shellfish this is the place for you. Shrimp every which way, lobster, escargot AND lobster, cape cod sea scallops. It's all here and we're just talking appetizers. Moving down to entrees you'll find salmon, grouper, tuna, crab cakes and more. Cost is not prohibitive but very reasonable. Appetizer and entree together will cost between $17 and $30. There are also salads and sandwiches to choose from for just $9.

The food is very fresh and tasty, the staff is always welcoming and if you get there at the right time of year, sitting on the patio is the best. You can smell that sea air and feel the breeze, even if you can't quite see it.

Frenchy's Rockaway Grill

7 Rockaway Street, Clearwater Beach, FL
Tel: 727-446-4844

Having grown up in St. Petersburg, I always thought the Hurricane was the best place to eat a grouper sandwich. A recent trip to Clearwater Beach with a friend, who guaranteed my satisfaction, changed my mind completely. Frenchy's Rockaway Grill is perched directly on the beach, making a fantastic view for diners. I did a little asking around before the trek out there and heard more than once that I should order the She Crab Soup and either the grouper bites or the grouper sandwich. The soup was beyond my expectations and if I make it out there again will definitely be my first course. An appetizer not to be missed are the conch fritters. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside and just a slight bite from something spicy in the mix. The grouper is available a myriad of ways. The one I tasted had delicious caribbean spices and was cooked to perfection. My side salad was fresh and dressed well. The atmosphere is as you would expect it to be with a casual, with a fun and flirty flair. We got there early and were seated right away, but by the time we left the lunch crowd was waiting in a winding line outside the door. Prices were reasonable for a seafood joint, starting around $5 and ending at $21. Now I feel like going out to Pass a Grille Beach for a comparison taste test.

The Chattaway

358 22nd Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Tel: 727-823-1594

Small and medium sized groups can take advantage of the picnic style seating in the garden area of the Chattaway Restaurant. I felt like I was walking back in time, through my grandmother's back yard when I rounded the corner from the parking lot. Of course, her house was only about 30 blocks north of here and probably built about the same time. The decor is more like that of a dotty aunt though, with whimsical signs and garden statues here and there. Tropical foliage planted in old footed tubs and a fish pond with a bridge make for a fun atmosphere and one that is mostly kid friendly. Smokers are allowed to do their thing out in the garden area so beware or be happy whichever your stance. The inside seating is a little clausterphobic, restrooms are on the side of the house. The food is good, fast and fresh. The staff is super friendly which is not always the case in these classic joints. The burger is a must try since it's been named "best of" in a few contests. For those who don't partake in beef, there are veggie burgers, salads, soups and sandwiches. The Chattaway should undoubtedly be on your visiting friends and family list. They're open for breakfast and lunch. The prices are reasonable for what you get and for the most part remain under $10. Remember though, it's cash only.

Red Mesa

4912 4th St. No., St. Petersburg, FL. Tel. 527-8728

Okay, I love to dine at the original Red Mesa (not to be confused with their Cantina of the same name)....that is, when I can get in. Twice we've given up and left those loyal followers still waiting on the porch for diners within to relinquish their cozy table and sangria for that lonely ride home. I love those southwestern flavors that blend together so well, those black beans, cilantro, jalapenos, chorizo sausage and chipotle. My personal favorite is the Chilis Rellenos, long green peppers stuffed with either steak and chile verde or jack cheese and salsa roja. Vegetarians can do well here. This is another place that challenges you to make that hard decision...today do we want to have breakfast, lunch or dinner at Red Mesa? Mornings try the Huevos Rancheros with some black bean chipotle sauce...Yes!

Another plus is the pricing. The menus are all so extensive that you will find a tasty dish in your price range. There's also a Sunset Menu for $14. Don't expect fancy, it's showing a few years of wear and tear. The bar stools are always taken and there's plenty of chatter, but try it if you haven't already. This Mexican food is delicious.

Papa Angelo's Ristorante & Pizzeria

536 1st Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Tel: 727-623-9018

My husband suggested this new pizza place he found in downtown St. Petersburg for dinner recently. He's been working near there, popped into Papa Angelo's for lunch and fell for the stromboli. I was game to try something new in the pizza arena and since our family is anti-chain when it comes to Italian pie, it seemed like a great idea for a Friday night. Not to mention, it was close by and he was willing to go get it. We ordered a sausage pizza and a spinach/cheese calzone. The toppings were good qualtiy, fresh and delicious. My husband and I disagreed over the crust though, I thought it was too oily, he thought it was perfect. Much like red sauce, each person has there own tastes when it comes to crust. Overall, I was pleased to try this see this new pizzeria's menu that hovers at a price point of $5 to $14.

Habana Cafe

5402 Gulfport Blvd South Gulfport,FL 33707
Tel: 727-321-8855

The owner of the Habana Cafe is the real deal. Ms. Gonzalez-Hastings came to America from Cuba as a child bringing with her a tradition of cooking and later a desire to celebrate her heritage. She wrote a cookbook by the same name, Habana Cafe Cookbook, a few years ago. Meats are slow cooked and deliciously seasoned with garlic, cumin, oregano and lime just to name a few ingredients. The black beans and rice are tasty and one of my son's favorites. One thing that was recommended to me that I may have passed over, is the Chicken Salad Cuban Style. The meat is roasted and includes apple, mayonnaise, hard boiled eggs and green olives.  It mixes together to make an addictive mash. Sandwiches and salads are under $8 and entrees hover at around $13.95. The restaurant itself is a pleasant to be. If you just want a quick bite or sample, Habana Cafe makes an appearance at the St. Petersburg Saturday Market.  The pork wrap and the guava pastries, not to mention the portable black beans and rice make a great little mid morning meal.

Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant

10 Beach Drive St. Petersburg, FL
Tel: 727-209-2299

The best place to sit at Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant is on the porch. It's a great vantage point for watching the downtown foot traffic and special event mayhem. The tapas menu has something for everyone with more than 100 diminutive works of art on a plate.  Everyone loves the Patatas Bravas, fried potatoes tossed with homemade aioli and you can't go wrong with Solomillo A La Parrilla, prime filet served in a brandy cream sauce. If you go with a group order multiples since the portions are only a few bites. The fun is trying something different each time you go. The sangria (white or red) is a great compliment. Ceviche's was the first white sangria I really liked the taste of. The accompanying fruit is crisp and fresh and makes this cocktail healthy in my book. Ceviche is a great place for Sunday brunch too, starting at 11:00 am. A scaled down version of the tapas menu is available, as are traditional breakfast favorites including French Toast, Omelets, and Eggs Benedict. This Ceviche location also has the Pincho y Pincho, a 7-day a week coffee shop and bar open for breakfast and lunch located just West of the main dining room.