Dining: MeltSo Melts So Very Well … (PHOTOS)
Early 50 years ago, in Maitland, The Melting Pot first elevated dining by introducing fondue with shareable courses consisting of melted cheese, flambeed meats and chocolate fondue. Mark Johnston, a waiter working his way through college at The Melting Pot, saw the popularity of the concept. In 1979, he joined forces with his brothers, Mike
Flor Fina: A Culinary Gem in Ybor (PHOTOS)
When Tampa locals think of Ybor City, vivid images of the cigar industry, roosters roaming the streets and a lively nightlife often come to mind. While fine dining might not be the first association with this historically rich Cuban neighborhood, hidden culinary gems like Flor Fina offer an unforgettable experience, nestled within Hotel Haya. Hotel
A Union well made (PHOTOS)
What happens when you blend the expertise of Jeff Gigante – a 20-plus year veteran of the dining and hospitality industry, Andrew Wright – chief executive officer of Franklin Street, a commercial real estate firm located in Tampa, and Joseph Guggino – a local lawyer and investor with an affinity to the restaurant industry? A
The Helm: Provisions and coastal fare (PHOTOS)
Heidi Butler’s childhood dream of becoming the cruise director for the Love Boat played out in real life when she and her husband, Michael Butler opened The Helm: Provisions & Coastal Fare on February 22, 2022. The original meaning of helm is associated with the equipment used for steering a ship or boat. Now taking
The Bolts of Boulon Brasserie on Water Street (PHOTOS)
Let’s talk about the ghost town that turned into a cosmopolitan, mini-Manhattan, mecca now known as Water Street Tampa. Jeff Vinik, owner of Tampa Bay Lighting, and Cascade Investments, headed by Bill Gates, are the driving forces behind Strategic Property Partners and the vision for this metropolis. Early in the planning phase, Next Level Brands
The Pinnacle of Ponte (PHOTOS)
From his initial start in the Icot Center, in Clearwater, to expanding his brand in Hyde Park and South Tampa to his newest venture in Midtown Tampa, Chris Ponte’s journey has developed within the Tampa market as he continually builds roots with flagship dining concepts including Olivia’s, On Swann and now Bare Naked Kitchen. But
There’s a new Italian market in town (PHOTOS)
Many locals (and tourists alike) know Mazzaro’s Italian Market as the premier place to purchase anything Italian in St. Petersburg. Since Mazzaro’s is a legend, parking is a challenge any time of the year; however, during the holidays, and most Saturdays, there are parking attendants to help with the chaos. It can be a nightmare.
Allelo: The place to flock to on Beach Drive (PHOTOS)
The restaurant industry is challenging and establishments change hands, bringing variety to the ever-growing food scene, in the Tampa Bay area. A welcome addition to St. Petersburg is Allelo, a Mediterranean-influenced restaurant on Beach Drive. Shawn and Jeanna Damkoehler combined forces with Volet Hospitality and the innovativeness of Chef Alex Pyser to bring a remarkable
