An afternoon in Ybor City is such a nice escape from the rest of the world for a while, a step back into an area so rich in culture and history, and amazing food! My thanks to Chantal Ruilova Hevai, President and CEO of the Ybor City Museum Society, and to our gracious hosts at Gaspar’s Grotto who let Kelly’s Kitchen take a break from life for a while.

   Chantal gave us a tour of the museum, which is working on a brand new exhibit, scheduled to open October 18^th.  It’s all about our ongoing love affair with baseball in Tampa, and the over 100 year history of the game. The exhibit will take us back to the days of the Tampa Smokers; highlight the great players like Al Lopez and Tony Saladino who began their illustrious careers in Cuscaden Park. The museum is a charming step back into the rich history of Ybor, and is located at 1818 East 9th Avenue. Our congratulations to the Ybor City Museum Society as they celebrate their 30^th anniversary. Interested in being a member? Just visit them at ybormuseum.org.

   Of course, how could Kelly’s Kitchen visit Ybor and not stop for a Cuban at the world famous Gaspar’s Grotto? Denise Greno, the Event/Marketing Manager sat down with us for lunch and the specialty of the house – their world famous Real Cuban Sandwich (with just a touch of pirate attitude – hence the bit of mayo). It was most definitely one of one of the finest Cubans I’ve ever had. I have to believe that the heart and soul of this Cuban from Tampa’s own La Segunda Central’s Cuban bread. Pressed, crisp and just heavenly.  Shere Schiller, self-described Head Wench/Proprietor can take care of what you or up to 700 guests would like to do out on the over 6,000 square foot patio or the spacious Sandbar Lounge. I’m thinking the all-inclusive Sunday brunch and enjoying the day in Ybor.

   Stay right here for news on the Tampa-Miami Throwdown coming up next month. Like those guys from the other coast have a chance…and check out those live sharks in the tank by the bar. Love you Gaspar’s Grotto; we’ll be back!

FOURTH FRIDAY FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL IS TODAY, FRIDAY, JULY 27TH

Wrap up the workweek and take in the sunset on Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach tonight with a special emphasis on barbeque! The street festival has a wide array of food trucks and prices will vary, but it a wonderful way to indulge in your favorite flavors and try some new ones. Music on the street, and the stores will be open late. Enjoy!

HYDE PARK FRESH MARKET REMINDER

Next Sunday is the first Sunday in August, and that means the Hyde Park Fresh Market will be open Sunday morning with delicious, fresh produce, many vendors to tempt your tastebuds, and one of the most relaxing ways to being a Sunday that I can think of. Bring the family, and the dog and start your Sunday in the park. The Hyde Park Fresh Market is the official sponsor of Kelly's Kitchen.

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN

Now and then we had a hope that if we lived and were good, God would permit us to be pirates” – mark Twain