Thursday, September 16, 2010

Peg's Cantina - Gulfport, FL





I love the laid back atmosphere of Gulfport and I have had the fun of exploring it recently with my family, and even more fun trying some of the restaurants in the area. I noticed Peg's Cantina on my last visit to Gulfport, but unfortunately, it was not open during that time, as it is only open for lunch on Saturdays. The rest of the week it is open for dinner only, and closed on Monday's(per their website). Peg's is a charming little bungalow turned into a restaurant. There are a number of tables outside, a patio dining area, and a limited seating area for indoor dining. We opted to dine outside.

A server was quick to bring us a menu and take our drink order. We were definitely there to try the beer as they have some of their own brews. We opted for a white wheat beer that was perfect for the hot weather. In addition to their own brews, they offer some guest brews made locally and from around the world, so they have a good selection here.

The food here was awesome. We started off with some chips, salsa, and guacamole. I really liked the guacamole here. For entrees, my son ordered the margarita pizza which was yummy with its thin and crispy crust. My husband and I both tried the shrimp burritos that had been recommended to us by a frequent diner there. The shrimp is sauteed in salsa fuega and was absolutely delicious. We were kind of glad we ordered the same thing because it was too good to share. Our burritos were served with beans and rice, but you can opt for a salad instead. Good beer, great food, and a relaxing atmosphere made for a great evening!

Peg's Cantina

3038 Beach Blvd.
Gulfport, FL
727-328-2720

Peg's Cantina on Urbanspoon

Friday, September 3, 2010

Pane Rustica Bakery and Cafe - Tampa, FL



Keep your eyes wide open when driving by, or you just might miss this little gem that is in a rather plain old strip mall. I know that if I had not been specifically driving to Pane Rustica, with an address in hand, I probably would not have noticed it in passing. Luckily, I had read the reviews of others and I was rather curious, plus I love bakeries. On the inside, Pane Rustica is beautiful and filled with tasty goodies. My son and I went over on a weekday morning for breakfast. The bakery is filled with comfortable tables and a long bench with cushions along the back wall. It just invites you to sit down and have a chat or perhaps bring along a good book and get comfy while enjoying coffee.

My son and I went to the bakery counter and deliberated over numerous yummy looking choices. Finally, I chose a croissant and a chocolate espresso cookie, while my son went with a chocolate cupcake. After getting our order filled, we moved down along the counter and chose our drinks, coffee for me and milk for my son. This was all very efficient and we quickly chose a comfy spot to sit and enjoy our selections. Everything was very good and along with the nice atmosphere, we had an enjoyable time. They serve lunch and dinner, so I am excited to try one of those meal times in the future.

Pane Rustica Bakery and Cafe
3225 South MacDill Avenue
Tampa, FL 33629
813-902-8828

Pane Rustica Bakery & Cafe on Urbanspoon