SPL LIVING
Ask The
Concierge Isaiah Joseph
Concierges (navigators, hosts) are relied upon for their knowledge on all things fun, unique and worthwhile in their location. It’s their job to keep up on the latest events, new restaurants and bars, and even quirky things to do. Who better to ask for advice about ‘the Burg? This issue we talk to Isaiah Joseph, Chief Concierge and Event Coordinator at ONE St. Petersburg in the heart of downtown. He has been assisting nearly 500 residents since it opened in late 2018, compiling a weekly newsletter with local events and things to do. At just 21, Joseph may well be one of the youngest concierges in town. “What attracted me to St. Petersburg is the city’s growth and how accommodating it is for someone as young as I am to thrive in its environment,” he says. What are your top requests from residents new to the area? My residents mainly want to have a true “Florida experience” so I’ll send them on a private day trip to Egmont key by boat, this way they can see the scenery of being on the water and experience unique snorkeling that Egmont has to offer. Give us your recommendations for: Favorite Restaurant – Casual: BUYA Ramen. This spot is excellent for a great bowl of ramen, but I suggest going for their lunch special which includes a little bit of everything for $13. Also Pizza Box is so small you wouldn’t think much of it, until you’ve
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tried their organic homemade French oven pizza. Money Not an Object: The restaurant that has surprised me the most would have to be FarmTable Cucina with the diverse menu options and the madein-house pasta, you can’t go wrong. If you’re looking to have a taste of everything, try their “Taste of Cucina.” Best Hangout Spot: This one becomes difficult because there are so many amazing spots to hang out in the ‘Burg, but in my opinion, it would have to be Park and Rec with all of the original arcade games and the air hockey tables there is plenty to do to keep you occupied for a whole night out. Best Place to Go With Your Dog: Other than all the amazing parks we have, it would have to be the Dog Bar. Best Cheap Date: $5 movie night on Tuesdays at AMC Sundial. Best Night on the Town: Start the night at Crafty Squirrel for the 2 for 1 drink specials until 7 pm, then head over to Hideaway Cafe to enjoy live music and great people. How to experience the real St. Pete: The best way to experience St. Pete is to be involved in the community even if it’s just volunteering a few hours at one of the museums or even the library. It’s a great way to meet your neighbors and help support the great city we live in.
November/December 2019
Upcoming Events Saturday Morning Market – There’s no better way to experience the St. Pete vibe than strolling around the Saturday Morning Market. Head to the parking lot of Al Lang Field ( 1st Street S. and 1st Avenue S.) to experience one of the best open-air markets in the South. In addition to a wide variety of arts, crafts, food products, clothing, hats, plants, home décor and furnishings, come hungry for an all-out foodie paradise featuring dozens of vendors with everything from breads, pastries, smoothies and coffees, to ethnic foods and vegan treats. Hours are 9 am to 2 pm, every Saturday through late May. saturdaymorningmarket.com Nov. 30-Dec. 1 Looking for a unique gift for that special someone? Don’t wait until the last minute, plan to attend Shopapalooza at Vinoy Park. Presented by LocalShops1, expect a festival-type atmosphere as over 100 local businesses and artists offer everything from handmade jewelry and soaps to candles and skin care, home décor, food products, clothing and accessories. Kids activity zone, live music and entertainment, CONA Christmas tree display, food vendors. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm daily; shopapaloozafestival.com
Nov. 20-24 All it takes is a pile of sand, some buckets of water, and lots of imagination to build a masterpiece — at least for 10 master sculptors who return to Treasure Island for the 11th annual Sanding Ovations Masters Cup Sand Sculpture Competition and Music Festival. The free event on the beach behind the Bilmar Resort, 10400 Gulf Blvd., includes a beach food court and beer gardens, arts and crafts, fireworks on Saturday evening and three days of live music sponsored by Ka’Tiki. Bands scheduled at press time include Drivin n Cryin, Randall Bramlett Band, Pirate Flag, Walrus- A Tribute to the Beatles, Tobacco Road, and School of Rock. Parking can be tricky, try the parking lot shuttle for $1 per person with pickup and dropoff from Treasure Island Golf and Tennis Club and Paradise Lutheran Church. www.sandingovationsmasterscup.com