Travel - Best 4th of July Weekend

Jax Beach, or all the Jacksonville beaches combined for that matter, knows how to throw an awesome party, put on an extravagant fireworks show, and make everyone feel like neighbors. The land of the beach cruisers, the home of the largest outdoor cocktail party in the world, and the location for beautiful beach and people. This is a weekend for the young at heart who still have enough party left in them, but if you're willing to ride everywhere you go with a cooler in tow and a beer in your hand, then head to Neptune, Atlantic, and Jax Beach for the 4th of July you won't forget.

Travel - Anna Maria Island - The Beachhouse

http://beachhouse.groupersandwich.com/

The Beachouse was my favorite of the Grouper Sandwich Restaurant Group's offerings. Much like the Sandbar it was right on the beach, but the atmosphere was more inviting and the venue was much larger. We wanted to look at the different offerings Anna Maria had, and there were only a few since it is such a quaint beach community. But that was just what we were looking for. I had the fresh sashimi tuna and a frozen mango specialty drink that was phenomenal, I made the mistake of letting people at my table taste it too so I ended up drinking about only half! This place had great character, food, and a beautiful view.

Travel: St Petersburg - The Birchwood

 

The Birchwood has been all the rage since it opened it's doors just a few months ago. It is the recently renovated chic boutique hotel in St Pete and it's the place to be. Equipped with a large downstairs dining room which offers a wide selection of wine, a roof top bar with cabanas and a view, a modern day ballroom, and a few bedroom suites for guests. The designer did a magnificent job incorporating it into the other new development projects downtown and it is definitely worth a visit.

Travel: St Petersburg - Ceviche

I just wanted to be sure everyone out there is aware that this place exists and what joy it can bring into your lives. It is a very traditional tapas restaurant that yes, actually serves tapas! So order a ton of them and share with your friends. Ceviche also offers fresh delicious sangria (white for the summer heat) and great live music. The location is ideal, right downtown St. Pete with outdoor seating, a large bar with ample dining room, and a very much alive bar below the restaurant that features latin music with a crowded dance floor. 

http://ceviche.com/

Tallahassee Film Festival Screening

The Tallahassee Film Festival hosted a screening of the not yet released film Drinking Buddies. The show was held at the All Saints Hop Yard with a live band to kick the party off. The line for drinks was pretty long since everyone came thirsty and luckily we brought bug spray and a blanket. So long as you came prepared, it was a good time.

I had not been to the Hop Yard but had heard good things. I could see how it would be fun for a low key beer and band night. It is off the beaten path and a little difficult to find but head towards the music and the string of lights. The party is behind the old coca-cola plant with "girls girls girls" graffiti on the side of the brick building.

Review: Skyline

I must admit I had a bad impression of this place when it first opened, but things have changed. I tried it again this Friday and think it may be my new favorite bar. I used to frequent this same space when it was Lee's Wine Bar, and enjoyed the atmosphere. There is a small patio attached to the side full of lush plant life and water features.
When I opened the door my ears were greeted with an awesome band and a packed room. They have a great selection of beer, including delirium, and wine.
Check It Out:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Skyline-Motor-Lounge/142445529231460

Review: Miccosukee Root Cellar

I just had one the the most delicious dinners at the Miccosukee Root Cellar. I ordered the snapper and a bottle of Great White. The small venue fills up fast and is a very casual and intimate setting. It is the perfect place for a date night or a glass of wine to catch up with a girlfriend. They serve cheese boards from Sweet Grass Dairy, my favorite! I've had drinks here before, but had no clue the food was so delicious.
Check it out:
http://miccosukeerootcellar.com/