Are you a fan of the Toronto Blue Jays? If so, you may be planning a trip to the Florida Auto Exchange Stadium in Dunedin, Florida, to catch one of the team’s spring training games. After the game you should consider stopping by one of these five great restaurants:
1. The Black Pearl Restaurant
The Black Pearl Restaurant is located on Main Street, less than five minutes away from the stadium. What makes it a stand out is its unpretentious atmosphere and incredible food. The veal paillards with vanilla bean sauce, tender mushrooms and delicate Marsala wine is a palate pleaser. Another good option is the wild mushroom ragout. The earthiness of the mushrooms is complimented by the saltiness of fresh pancetta, shallots, garlic and a veal demiglace. Entrée prices start at $19.95 and the price is inclusive of a veggie, salad and a starch. It opens daily at 5 p.m.
2. Café Alfresco Restaurant and Bistro
Looking for a light, post-game meal in a casual atmosphere? You may want to give the Café Alfresco Restaurant and Bistro on Main Street a go. The chef makes a mean plate of buffalo chicken bites for $6 and an unforgettable Sicilian white bean soup ($3). You may also want to try something more substantial like the grilled black and blue pork chops ($13). The chops are dressed with a gorgonzola and walnut crust that is too good for words. It opens daily for lunch and dinner.
3. Sea Sea Riders Restaurant
Are you in the mood for fresh seafood? Then the Sea Sea Riders Restaurant on Main Street should be on your short list. It opens daily and features the most amazing entrees. I’d suggest that you sample the coconut crusted shrimp with the key lime, honey Dijon dipping sauce ($15) or the vanilla rum glazed grouper. The grouper is plated on a bed of wild rice and seasoned with a macadamia nut brittle that provides a wonderful contrast to the tender flesh of the fish. A little heat is also added to the dish in the form of spiced pineapple and a red curry infused coconut cream sauce.
4. The Dunedin Smokehouse
The chefs at the Dunedin Smokehouse on Main Street know how to slow cook meat and work a grill. The smokehouse jumbo wings ($9), Texas-style brisket ($8) and brisket chili bread bowls ($5) will leave you and your wallet satisfied. If you can’t bear to choose just one entree, consider ordering the Big John Combo ($24). It comes with ribs, fork tender brisket, pulled pork and a ¼ of a chicken. It opens every day at 11 a.m.
5. Jolli Mon’s Grill
Do you have your crew with you? Then head to the Jolli Mon’s Grill on Huntley Avenue. It’s less than a five minute drive from the stadium. While you’re there consider ordering a party sized plate of Ocean Fries smothered in chili and cheese ($8) along with a few fish or meat tacos. You can get three tacos and a side dish for around $8. The restaurant is also known to offer live entertainment on most nights. It opens daily.
Killeen Gonzalez enjoys watching baseball with her family and has traveled extensively.
More from this contributor:
MLB Fan’s Guide to Visiting the Florida Auto Exchange Stadium in Dunedin, Florida
Five National League Baseball Stadiums that Offer Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Best 5 Florida State Parks for Canoeing
Top 5 Legendary Fishermen