Clearwater City Grill

401 Fort Hariison, Clearwater, FL
Tel: 727-408-5160

My friend invited me to see the renovation of this landmark restaurant across the street from the Clearwater Courthouse. Apparently, there have been many incarnations of this place over the years. It started out as one of those silver bullet diners years ago and oddly enough the bar of the Clearwater City Grill is still housed in its shell. Exposed brick and comfy booth seating round out the interior.  A lively professional crowd from the Courthouse and surrounding offices make up the crowd. I decided to try the Amazing Sedona Taco which are touted as the best fish tacos on the coast, maybe in the world. They were delicious and plentiful. Served on a long board reminiscent of all things California, these tacos start with grilled flour tortillas and are topped with cabbage, guacamole, tomato and cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, salsa is served on the side. The fish is well seasoned but not overdone, and they're shredded making them super easy to eat. At  $7.95, you couldn't ask for a better deal. Other menu choices show great creativy, offering classic diner food with a twist. The next time you find yourself in downtown Clearwater, I suggest you give this place a try.

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.

EVOS

2631 4th St. No., St. Petersburg, FL. Tel. 727-571-evos

Evos claims to serve fast food that's healthy and, therefore, guilt free. How, you ask? Well, for one thing their hamburgers, chicken and fries are Airbaked (that's with a capital A) instead of deep fried. They don't offer technical explanations for Airbake that I might pass along but that's their spiel. Add to that, no hormones or antibiotics have been added to the beef. Organic milk and real fruit and fruit juices are used in their shakes.

I stopped by yesterday for lunch and had a turkey avocado wrap and a bottle of water, I'm just not into those shakes no matter what they're made of. There was alot of ground turkey in the wrap but I couldn't seem to find the avocado, except for a smooth green buttery substance throughout. Not to say it didn't taste good. With tomatoes and lettuce this generous portion on a spinach wrap totally satisfied my hunger. Just a little more flavor please. It's odd how every supermarket has aisles of herbs and spices but they can be so hard to find in restaurant food.

Anyway, for slightly less than $6 I did feel that I'd just eaten a relatively healthy lunch. Well, the best I could expect that hadn't been prepared by me in my kitchen.

The Healthy Hut

595 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach, FL. Tel. 727-363-4488

What do you think about beer and wine in a healthfood store?

Let's see...healthy alcohol? Could that be considered an 'oximoron'?

I think so.

Anyway, I was over on the beach yesterday getting some sea air and decided to drop by the Healthy Hut to buy some ginger, the candied kind. Of course, I should have headed straight for the register but didn't. Silly me. Anyway, you know how it is when you're in a food store and it's almost dinner time, you're hungry but you don't really know it. So by the time I'd finished strolling around I was $18 lighter. My mistake was walking to the rear of the store where the prepared foods and cafe are located. If you haven't experienced the Hut and like to eat (doesn't everybody) the store is a short stroll or shorter ride on Corey west of the Beach Theatre. It's a good place to drop in for a healthy breakfast, lunch or dinner. The food is tasty and more than that, interesting.

What did $18 buy? A very small container of tabouli, a Napoleon (yum), a

3"x 3" square of vegetable lasagna for $6.87 and some ginger. That's it.

Out of my mind? Well, it was fun.

R.G.'s Bookmark Cafe

120 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL 33771
Tel: 727-586-7390

Located in the Largo Public Library, this satellite site of R.G.'s Restaurant of Clearwater is a great little spot for a snack, breakfast, lunch or early dinner. If you have a county cooperative library card, you can pick up a book or dvd and get a cup of coffee and a scone. The breakfast choices include pancakes and waffles, breakfast sandwiches and bisquit and gravy. At lunch, they bring in a "hot" special that varies from meatloaf to stuffed peppers and includes one side and a salad, all for $6.95. It's a great deal. R.G.'s offers soups and salads too, I had both and they were fresh and tasty. Recently renovated, this cafe is a cozy spot to sit and read or meet a friend. The coffee is good and the atmosphere is very friendly.

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.

Munch's Restaurant

3920 6th St S, St Petersburg, FL
Tel: 727-896-5972

I returned to Munch's Restaurant as promised to try their famous Munch Burger. I've been trying get there on a Tuesday to try the also famous fried chicken, but unfortunately, haven't been able to do so yet. I made it on a Wednesday instead, which turned out fine since I was treated to that day's special, Munch's Cuban sandwich. My husband and I split the sandwich and a lip smacking  cheeseburger. Order your burger any way you like, with or without cheese, dressed in lettuce, tomato, onion and something a little different, relish. Of course, ketchup, mayo and mustard are available too. We enjoyed the sandwich with the homemade chips that accompany it and added fries to the burger for a little more pocket change. The Cuban sandwich was full of delicious meats, piled high on authentic Cuban bread. The whole lot was pressed into crunchy submission and had just the right mustard/mayo component. The burger was a good sized portion, juicy and flavorful. Prices for lunch are less than $10 and who knows? You may find something fabulous in the "Sundries" section started by one of the legendary owners years ago. Munch's is a classic experience for locals and visitors alike, and worth the trip to Southeast St. Pete. Testing burgers is something Java and I take seriously, look for our article on the best burgers in St. Petersburg coming soon. We will be looking for your input on this!

Salvador Dali Museum outing

One Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL. Tel. 727-823-3767

On January 11, 2011 the new Salvador Dali Museum will open to the public. I was able to tour the museum's beautiful and exciting new home during it's construction and again just before the paintings were transferred. The entire experience reflects both Dali's life and career and is, therefore, a fascinating place to visit. It's very different from the original site.

The cement and glass exterior is sure to be a St. Petersburg icon. The structure, its landscaped exterior and surrealist interior were all carefully designed to reflect the man and his art. As for the art work, it is still the most comprehensive collection of Dali's work in the world.

At the moment, it's best to go to the Dali website to see the list of events planned for the opening celebrations. Tickets for individuals and groups are currently on sale online.

If you plan to visit often it's a good idea to become a member for the unlimited free admission and other discounts available.

BTW can now dine at the museum either indoors or out. It you're feeling more adventurous we do offer alternatives....

Dining Out

After enjoying the Dali you'll be ready for either lunch or dinner so here are a couple of suggestions. The first is Cerviche's a tapas bar and restaurant located at 95 Central Ave. where you can continue the Catalan experience. The food and sangria have both won awards in the Tampa Bay area. The second is The Hangar located at tiny Albert Whitted Airport within walking distance of the museum. You'll be able to eat either indoors or out while watching the planes come and go. A fun place for the kids too. The food is good and you can read a past review on this blog, just look up The Hangar.

Banyan Coffee & Tea Co

689 9th St N, St Petersburg, FL 33701
Tel: 727-896-7100

I had the opportunity to visit the Banyan Coffee & Tea Co again, this time for lunch. I went with the family and everyone got somehting different. I had the Grilled Goat Cheese which I loved. The cheese isn't a solo act in this concoction, allowing some tasty accompaniments with, scallion, dates, bacon and a delicious balsamic drizzle. The classic BLT is served with a wasabi mayo that my 10 year old loved, plain is availalble. The pork sandwich my husband tried was flavorful and tendor. Definitely a filling meal with a bowl of soup. Banyan's soups are inventive and excellent comfort food. The day we were there, a ginger carrot soup was served that had everyone complimenting it. Our meals were served with a side of old fashioned macaroni and cheese. This is a great spot for breakfast or lunch and a nice crowd of friends is always in attendance. Between $8 and $9 for a sandwich. Soup and Sandwich combos available. You owe it to yourself to pop into this place, it will put a smile on your face.

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.

Skyway Jacks

2600 34th St S, St Petersburg, FL 33711
Tel: 727-866-3217

I couldn't find a website for Skyway Jacks, a well known St. Petersburg eatery, but I found plenty of satisfied customers that wanted to talk about their culinary experiences at some other web locations. I hadn't been to this venerable spot for many years, but walked into the cash only dining room with high hopes for a great breakfast. I wasn't disappointed with my choice of asparagus and tomato omelette, home fries and wheat toast. There was apple butter and marmalade on the table which gave the meal even more homemade flair. My husband went with the ham hash, a salty, delicious mixture of pork and potatoes. The potatoes in the home fries were red bliss, which were an addictive taste and texture experience. The eggs were cooked perfectly, and the asparagus still had a crispy freshness to it. The decor is eclectic and probably not to everyone's taste with a predominent theme of "pigs." Prices ranging from $3 to $10, so I couldn't care less about the porky motif. This is a classic breakfast spot that everyone should try, but be prepared to wait for a table on the weekends. The wait staff is friendly and regulars are treated like family.

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.

Nature's Finest Foods

6651 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL. Tel. 727-347-5682

Nature's Finest, in layman's terms, is a healthfood store that specializes in organic and natural foods. This small chain has stores throughout Florida and Maryland. Maybe you've already purchased their vitamins, special juices, natural soaps, and nutritional supplements. Items that allow us to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Maybe you've passed the long salad bar on your way to the deli counter where they offer freshly made hot and cold dishes. Just next to the deli is the bakery and it's hard to decide which treat to pick. Some of these items are gluten free, by the way, and very tasty. There's also a refrigerator case with fresh wraps and salads in plastic containers. All of these delicacies can be packaged to go or eaten at the store in their small dining area at the front of the store. Like the rest of the store it's very clean and employees are very friendly. If you're at all familiar with healthfood stores you know that the pricing is not cheap, but you're paying for quality.

You might even make this a weekly lunchtime stop.

Check out their website for low fat and vegetarian recipes and live healthy!

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.

Emilio's Bistro, Bakery and Bar

437 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL. Tel. 727-258-4891

Always on the lookout for a new dining experience, my partner and I were cruising down Central Avenue this afternoon when we heard live jazz and thought....that's odd for a Sunday. The music turned out to be a very talented one man band who, like the pied piper, led us straight to Emilio's for Sunday brunch. What a find! Within the hour many stools were occupied at the long bar, while other music lovers were dining outside under the yellow umbrellas closer to the music

The decor is very artsy, huge colorful oil paintings hang on rust colored walls, lots of wood and stainless steel throughout. Everything is immaculate. We were seated at a table along the wall opposite the waitress's pickup station. She breezed by us first with a dish of the banana, caramel french toast made from challah bread, next a beautiful prawn and strawberry salad, a variety of croissant sandwiches and for the big guy we had a quick glance at the Chipotle meatloaf baguette. I just can't tell you how good this food looked. It was beautiful. We had already ordered the goat cheese and roasted red pepper panini which was very good, the bread was light and the side salad and dressing delicious, but next time I have to try the french toast. They'll also make your omelet to order outside.

The dessert menu changes daily. Today the baked goods, on display as you enter, included pumpkin cheesecake, a chocolate bomb cake, key lime pie, fancy cupcakes, scones and more. Someone ordered the berry parfait made with greek yogurt served in a sundae glass. Yes, we saw all of these delicacies and if you don't eat anywhere else this week, get to Emilio's. This is one talented chef.

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.