Sunday, August 28, 2016

Roadtrip St Petersburg

Did you know that August is considered 'National Back To School Month'? 

Ridiculous. In my mind, August is the essence of summer, not school, but this is where we are! Fortunately, I was able to have a break these past weeks from blogging, but I am ready to get back to posting great ideas for college cooking and college living as everyone heads 'back to school' these weeks. 

That being said, if you are already thinking about your spring break, consider a road trip to St. Petersburg, Florida--just spent 7 days relaxing, reading, and discovering some awesome food!


Have fun with these suggestions after you have spent your day at Treasure Island, St Pete Beach or Fort De Soto!

1. Mazzaro's
2909 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713)

Definitely one of my favorite places to go to for lunch, Italian Subs and great options when it comes to pastas, deli meats, coffee, baked goods and atmosphere! Enclosed outdoor seating area. Not open on Sundays, at least not for lunch! 



2. The Taco Bus
(2324 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33712)

I know I have posted pics of this place before, but you know what...the Poblano Veggie Taco is simply awesome--all outdoor seating. Cash only! If you are in the neighborhood, check out the food and the surrounding buildings with fantastic murals. Across the street is a great place to pick up used books for your summer reading on the beach, i.e. Hallam Books. 



3. Locale Market and Farm To Table
(179 2nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701)

If you are trolling around the completely renovated downtown area of St. Petersburg you must stop into Michael Mina's gourmet food market that also has a fantastic restaurant upstairs as well as a fine-dining option on certain evenings.  Pick up some local microbrews, grab anything from sushi burrito to a lobster roll, or hit the upstairs for fresh salads, flatbreads and appetizers!





4. Twistee Treat
(6900 Gulf Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33706)

This is simply your quintessential summer soft-serve ice cream place that still has incredible dipped cones like the old days! After a long day at the beach, this hits the spot!


5. Ted Peters Smoke Fish House
(1350 Pasadena Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33707)

Unfortunately, I thought I had a picture, but alas...so mistaken...however, this should not deter you from visiting one of the original landmarks of food in St. Pete. Still operating the same menu since it opened! If fish ain't your thang...go for the ultra-satisfying cheeseburger and root beer!

6. Z Grill
(104 2nd St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701)

Another stop in downtown St Pete area with beautiful images all painted on skateboards. One particular large-party seating area has a version of the Last Supper with lucha libra wrestlers. Food had some appetizers worth going back for, i.e. their fried bbq ribs! If you are a fan of deviled eggs, some interesting takes on an old classic will certainly take you far and beyond!


7. Alesia Restaurant
(7204 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33707)

They do not have a Twitter account or a Facebook page--"the owners are European and go on word of mouth." Small space both with indoor and outdoor seating. Menu reflects French and Vietnamese fare superbly executed and simply delicious. Delicious soups, great Banh Mi sandwiches, fresh salads and delicious Creme Caramel! Not open on Sundays and Mondays, so plan ahead!


8. Dockside Dave's
(14701 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL 33708)

Discovered this place because Mazzaro's Italian Market was closed on Sunday! Located in Madeira Beach area and known for their fresh grouper sandwiches--buttermilk fried, blackened, broiled, you name it--these handhelds are HUGE, so think about sharing this one (the picture does not do it justice, but as a reference that tomato is a regular sized beefsteak slice!). Onion rings and waffle fries are ginormous with everything coming straight out piping hot, freshly made! Great find just before heading back to the airport!


8. King's Street Food Counter
(937 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705)

St Petersburg is booming with incredible dining options and everytime I head back family has new suggestions "to try". Located a short distance from Tampa Rays Tropicana stadium, this place has an old diner flare specializing in hot dogs, grilled cheese and milkshakes--all with a twist and variation you wouldn't expect.  Part of growing food scene--completely worth a visit if you are driving thru or headed to a game! 



That's my take on St. Pete this trip, but believe me, I didn't even cover the half of what is popping up there!

See you this week with some new ideas for college cooking, living and saving!