Right now I feel like a fraud. I am drinking a Starbucks latte when I should be drinking a delicous and healthy concoction from Karma Juice Bar. Yes, I'll keep drinking my occasional Starbucks favorites but I do know a thing or two about eating and drinking closer to home...
Growing up in the beautiful town of St. Petersburg, Florida, I am proud to say that I learned how to #EatLocal. There are so many quaint places developed by small business owners that have flourished in the ever expanding Downtown area. These are my "Top 10 Essential Places" to eat at if you find yourself driving down Beach Drive or Central Avenue anytime soon...
1. Cassis American Brasserie
A subtle twist of French cuisine and easy American dining is what Cassis represents. The atmosphere of Cassis resembles that of the French Riviera in the 1930s, with its comfortable outdoor seating. This is a place where you are welcome to leisurely enjoy Sunday brunch. Located in walking distance of everything else there is in Downtown, you'll easily find yourself in the path of this local favorite as waiters weave in and out of onlookers. I recommend trying the Brioche French Toast, with its assortment of fresh fruit and homemade mascarpone whipped cream.
2. Karma Juice Bar & Eatery
There was a need for acai bowls in Downtown St. Pete, and Karma has successfully fulfilled it. A recent addition to the area, it opened in 2015 by a mother/daughter duo who have since added additional square footage by expanding next door. Most visitors opt for their trademark acai bowls (my favorite is the Indulge because, well, chocolate) but if you need a hearty lunch they serve deliciously fresh salads and grilled paninis.
3. Z Grille
Z Grille has options for everyone. Even the picky eaters, trust me! From pork belly sandwiches, burgers, wings and waffles, to sea scallops-Chef Zack has got you covered. My personal favorite appetizer that I chow down on with my Dad and sister are the Dr. Pepper Ribs.
4. Gratzzi Italian Grille
Voted best Italian restaurant in St. Petersburg, Gratzzi is a staple in the Downtown community. It's the best place to take pasta lovers and seafood lovers alike, too. The service and atmosphere make Gratzzi the perfect choice for a Saturday night dinner with the family, or famiglia, as they say in Italian. Order the Bada Bing! for a special cheesy surprise.
5. King's Street Food Counter
6. The Avenue Eat + Drink
It's not just a regular sports bar, it's a cool sports bar, with cozy booths, too. The Avenue is another genius creation of Stephen Schrutt's in the Downtown area. Start out with some truffle cheese tots to split among your pals and then choose your pick of an entree. I suggest trying one of their famous burgers! Get here early in the evening because this place is bound to get busy fast.
7. Nitally's ThaiMex Cuisine
Nitally's is a hop and a skip away from Downtown and is near Tropicana Field, home to the Rays. It is so good that I recommend driving down Central Avenue to get there. Nitally's (Nit is from Thailand while Ally is from Mexico) offers a mix of the best Mexican and Thai food. My favorite dishes to order are the Lettuce Chicken Wraps (thai peanut sauce!) or the Chicken Pineapple Pizza.
8. The Wooden Rooster
You don't have to take a trip to France to have wonderfully hand-crafted crepes! The Wooden Rooster is nestled in the heart of Downtown St. Pete and is your destination for the best loaded, flaky crepes. They even have options for Gluten Free or Vegan customers. Sweet or savory, there is plenty to choose from here. I recommend trying the Apple Melt (chicken, spinach, caramelized apples, and brie cheese) or the Smores.
9. The Hangar Restaurant & Flight Lounge
Downtown St. Pete also has its own spot for take off. The Albert Whitted Airport is a public-use airport located in the southeastern part of town overlooking Tampa Bay. The place to watch the planes while grabbing some brunch is at The Hangar Restaurant. Pre-Flight, enjoy smoked gouda stuffed meatballs or caprese skewers. For a main dish, you can't go wrong with their pulled pork sandwich or bacon wrapped meatloaf.
10. The Moon Under Water
Indian curry dishes and British Colonial cuisine in the form of traditional fish and chips are two favorites at The Moon Under Water. When the weather is right, sit outside on their patios like the locals do. Not only do they serve curries and chips, but they have every type of sandwich imaginable. From roasted Cubans to veggie burgers, The Moon Under Water makes it hard to pick just one item. Personally, the roasted Cuban is mouthwatering with a side of the most well-seasoned black beans and rice I've ever had.
Yes, there are sooo many more delicious restaurants in St. Pete to try! I wish I could list them all, but start with these and just walk around Downtown and you will wind up finding even more options to try.
