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Gator Girl - Out of the Swamp Posts

Yellow Dog Café – Malabar, FL

Just south of Melbourne in Malabar, Yellow Dog Café is the kind of waterfront spot people stumble upon and want to come back to. Set on the Indian River, it pairs beautiful views with relaxed charm and comfort food with a little extra flair. The Yellow Dog Café’s, Cosmopolitan came with a sugar rim. Crisp, citrusy, and just sweet enough, it’s an easy choice for something pretty, refreshing, and a little extra special with dinner. The Baked Brie is wrapped in golden puff pastry and baked until perfectly war; this creamy brie is paired with a bright cranberry-cherry sauce, fresh…

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Metro Diner – Jacksonville, FL

I’ve visited Metro Diner several times over the years, but always for breakfast. On this visit, I decided to switch things up and explore the lunch menu for the first time. With Metro Diner’s reputation for comfort food, I was excited to see if lunch could be just as satisfying as the breakfasts I’ve always enjoyed. For lunch, I chose the Chicken Pot Pie, a comforting classic that delivered on every level. Beneath its golden homemade biscuit crust was a hearty filling of tender chicken, carrots, celery, and corn, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Every bite was…

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Ulele – Tampa, FL

Along Tampa’s waterfront, Ulele reimagines Florida-inspired dining with thoughtful cuisine, local ingredients, and an atmosphere that balances history with contemporary style. Every memorable meal has a beginning, and cocktails often set the tone. Whether bright and refreshing or bold and spirit-forward, the first sip creates a moment to settle in, connect, and ease into the dining experience before the first plate arrives. The Tuna Benne  is a delicately seared yellowfin tuna crusted with benne seeds is paired with fresh wakame slaw and corn salsa, while chadon sauce and white garlic wasabi cream bring a smooth, flavorful finish. The Calamari  is…

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The Banks Seafood & Steak – Boston, MA

The Banks Seafood & Steak brings together fresh seafood, quality steaks, and a relaxed Boston atmosphere in the heart of Back Bay. With a menu rooted in New England flavors with a modern twist, it’s a spot that feels both classic and current—perfect for enjoying great food and good company. Their New England Clam Chowder balances creamy comfort with a flavorful lift of smoky pork belly, bright chives, and herb oil, then crowned with crispy oyster crackers for added texture. The Green Circle Chicken is roasted with fragrant herbs is paired with savory calasparra rice layered with saffron and chorizo.…

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Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar – Pittsburgh, PA

If you want to experience a true Pittsburgh institution, the original Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar in the Strip District is the place to start. Tucked into one of the city’s most historic and hardworking neighborhoods, this no-frills sandwich shop has been serving up its signature creations since 1933 — and it still feels proudly rooted in its blue-collar beginnings. Walking inside, you’re greeted by walls murals on the wall of famous people that have contributed to Pittsburgh’s history, from Mr. Rogers to “Mean” Joe Green all the way to Terry Bradshaw. The sandwiches are the real attraction — The…

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Mr & Mrs Crab – Lakeland, FL

There’s something about a true seafood feast that feels both indulgent and unforgettable — and when the craving hits, there’s one place that immediately comes to mind, Mr. & Mrs, Crab, in Lakeland, Florida. This local favorite serves up fresh catches drenched in perfectly seasoned sauces, piled high and ready to dig into. From the moment I walked in, I could tell this wasn’t just dinner — it was an experience. This spot promises messy hands, full tables, and flavors that would keep me coming back for more. I had to start with a cup of lobster bisque. There’s something…

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FM Pizza Oven – Melbourne, FL

Tucked into the heart of the Eau Gallie Arts District, FM Pizza Oven has carved out a name for itself as a go-to spot for authentic wood-fired pizza along Florida’s Space Coast. What began as a mobile pizza operation has grown into a charming brick-and-mortar restaurant, now housed in a beautifully restored historic bank building that adds character the moment you walk in. The Pepperoni Woodfire Pizza is simplicity done spectacularly well. It comes straight from the roaring wood-fired oven with a crust that’s tender and slightly charred — smoky, airy, and perfectly textured. Each slice balances rich tomato sauce,…

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Loveless Cafe – Nashville, TN

It’s been a few years since I’ve been to the famous Loveless Café just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. The last time I was here it was for breakfast. This time I was there for lunch. You can’t come to Loveless Café, and not order their homemade Buttermilk Biscuits. It doesn’t matter what time of day you visit, they serve these warm morsels with a selection of homemade jellies. These will be some of the best biscuits you will ever try. They are extremely light and fluffy. The Hot Chicken was spectacular. It was crunchy and juicy. The spice was not…

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Metro Diner – Jacksonville, FL

I was in Jacksonville, and I remembered there was a great diner I had been to before. Metro Diner was also featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives which has helped this restaurant expand to other locations. It was breakfast time so I was ready to enjoy their Classic Breakfast. It was simple, scrambled eggs, grits, and toast. There was a lot of food on the plate. The eggs were fresh. The grits had a great creamy and salty taste once I added some butter. Another Classic Breakfast was ordered. This one had eggs over medium, and it came with bacon,…

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Fatbelly Pretzel – Nashville, TN

There was a cute little shop that opened on the east side of Nashville called Fatbelly Pretzel. They have a selection of pretzels, unique pastries, like pretzel danishes, along with sandwiches and salads. I love pretzels, especially fresh made pretzels. I ordered the Classic Salted Pretzel. The dough was slightly sweet. The salt on the pretzel complemented the taste. It was soft and warm. I wanted something a little more so I ordered a side of their Sesame Krab Noodles. This was a cold noodle, like a pasta salad. It was tossed in a soy sauce dressing with a rich,…

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