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ALFRESCO IS FOR THE BIRDS!Spring has sprung and everyone wants to be out and about enjoying the sunshine. EIL asked me to give advice on the best places to eat outside but I’ll leave outdoor dining to the kids. I’ve lived long enough that I know gnats, ants and bees are just not for me. So, using the prerogative of age, I am going to take you with me on a stroll through all of my favorite spots in Pier Village instead.
We’ll start where parking is usually no problem: Mallery Street Café. Amy will fill you in on the daily specials while she greets and seats you. Since discovering the Fried Chicken Salad, I always order the same thing. Everything at the Café is made fresh to order. Their ads say: “If you don’t see it, ask. We may have it.”
The 4th of May provides outside seating, perfect for pet owners. Try their breakfast specialties for brunch. The Butter Pecan French Toast is a fantastic, whether dining inside or out.
You will not be able to resist visiting shops along Mallery Street. I discovered Meo’s Suite while window shopping and could not resist a flowery dress that must have been inspired by Monet’s reflections of clouds on the water lily pond. The dress label says “Magazine” and I do feel like a French model each time I wear it.
If you have five or more in your lunch group, try Palmer’s, where they can accommodate larger parties in their back room. Palmer himself is most helpful as he greets everyone as they enter. If I am in the mood for brunch I order The Islander omelet: egg whites, bacon crumbles, fresh basil and Boursin cheese, garnished with cucumber ribbons--a little touch of Provence.
When you are simply craving a cheeseburger and fries, the place to go is Zuzu’s. Their sweet potato fries are great, but always save room for an ice cream cone to savor as you continue strolling around. Zuzu’s burgers were voted best on the island by EIL readers.
There’s not a woman alive who can resist a sale corner in a fine gift shop, so check out the one in Dutchman’s. I always head straight to the back and usually find the perfect hostess gift to save for when I need a really special one.
On sunny days, there is usually plenty of seating out front at Palm Coast. Soups are their specialty. Try a cup of the portobello chicken along with the turkey panini sandwich made with Havarti cheese, honey mustard, roasted red peppers and spinach served with a Greek pasta salad. I challenge you to save room for a slice of their amazing homemade cake.
Complete your day in the cozy bar at Georgia Sea Grill for happy hour at sunset. You will be welcomed by Ginny. Ask her for the Nona special. It doesn’t get any better than that. Enjoy!
