While on vacation in Florida you might be tempted to try the Southern BBQ. We really can’t blame you as we always find time for at least one BBQ lunch or dinner. Which BBQ is the best? It’s hard to say as each member of the family likes a different restaurant usually because of the sauce, tenderness of the ribs or, in the case of Eiko, the ambience. Here are some of our favorite locations a short drive from the beach house.
Dickey’s BBQ
Dickey’s BBQ located at 2119 Tyrone Blvd, St. Petersburg is always a good port of call. The baby back ribs are tender and moist and in many cases the meat falls off the bone. The brisket sandwich especially for lunch is a sure bet! While the baked beans, fried okra and jalapeño beans are all first rate. A nice touch is the ice cream machine which allows you to make, amongst other things, root beer floats! Delicious and fun.
Sonny’s BBQ
Located near Dickey’s is Sonny’s BBQ at 3650 Tyrone Blvd, St. Petersburg. This is an all time “go to” barbeque. They have been in business as a specialty chain for over 50 years and we have always had quality meals. My boys love the rib specials which allows “all you can eat” ribs while Eiko enjoys the BBQ brisket along with the unlimited salad bar. The wait staff is friendly and parking is easy. At times during rush hour there may be a short wait but we have never been asked to wait more than 15-20 minutes. If in doubt sonny will not disappoint.
Rib City
Rib City located at 1550 66th Street N. is a 10 to 15 minute drive from Eiko’s Beach House. Now how you tackle this unassuming BBQ pit is if you are having lunch get ½ rack of ribs but go “whole hog” and get a full rack for dinner. Now other than ribs to die for the pulled pork and brisket dishes are out of this world. The mains are great but we almost fight over the fried okra, collard greens and garlic toast. This restaurant should easily be added to your BBQ repertoire after one visit to this location.
Smokin’ J’s BBQ
Smokin’ J’s BBQ is a newly discovered gem in that wonderful Key West-like town of Gulfport. This location is situated at 5145 Gulfport Blvd and is about a 15 minute drive from Eiko’s Beach House. Make no mistake this is an authentic Texas BBQ. They specialise in beef brisket, ribs and sausage. The BBQ sauce adds flavour to your already fabulous dishes. It is sweet and tangy and is just like you would expect from a Texas BBQ. WE get the ranch beans, and Mac and Cheese to make the perfect experience.
If you go on Saturday night you will be in for a live music treat. The place rocks with flavour and the experience is elevated by being in one of West Florida’s “hippest” little town.
Eiko’s Beach House BBQ
Finally last but not least is Eiko’s Beach House BBQ! Situated near the hot tub and in the lush tropical garden leading to the Gulf of Mexico we have not one but two grills available to prepare a stunning BBQ just the way you like it. With Publix only a few minutes by car down the road, you can buy all the ingredients you need for your perfect BBQ experience.
After dining on the porch, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and watching the dolphins play, why not leave cleaning up to later and join the dolphin as you frolic in the balmy waters of the Gulf? Another option if cooking is not for you, go to one of the above establishments and take-away your favorite dishes and enjoy an al fresco experience at Eiko’s Beach House. Who says you can’t have the best of two worlds? You can when you stay at Eiko’s Beach House. “Y’all come back now, hear?”
