Just south of downtown St. Pete Beach there’s something new to crow about. The Roost has finally opened on Gulf Boulevard and 71st Avenue in St. Pete Beach, serving up broasted chicken with a side of good fun, thanks to owner Beth Morean and manager Buddy Thomas.
Every day except Tuesday the kitchen is open from 11am-10 pm. The Roost serves broasted chicken, and homemade sides that change daily, from fresh veggies, baked Mac n’ cheese, and cornbread to desserts just like Beth’s Grandma used to make. After 10 pm, bar snacks are available for night owls.
What is broasted chicken? Broasting is a fast, pressure -cooking method of frying chicken that uses very little oil and results in the healthiest, crispiest, juiciest chicken you’ve ever tasted and their coating is completely gluten free! You’ll never eat plain old fried chicken again after trying this.
Here’s how it works. All meals include cornbread or bisquit, one chicken breast; plus choice of 1-3 legs, thighs or wings; With two pieces you get two sides, three or four pieces plus three sides for really hungry folks or those wishing to dine family style. If you want to change out the dark meat for white, it’s only $2. Add an extra side for another $2. It’s that easy.
Everyday offers up a choice of six side dishes from a tantalizing menu that includes farm favorites such as sweet cole slaw, carrot raisin salad collard greens, black eyed peas, tangy cole slaw, potato salad, waldorf salad, corn pudding, broccoli rice casserole, cheesy potatoes, ginger carrots, squash souffle, mashed potatoes & gravy, baked beans, sweet potato pie, cauliflower bake, mac’n cheese and served with homemade cornbread or bisquits fresh daily.
Wash it all down with soda, coffee, fresh brewed ice tea or lemonade served in ball mason jars or a cocktail from the full bar (where you can watch your favorite team on television). Be sure to save room for desserts including blueberry crumble, apple crisp and peach cobbler a la mode, ala mode with a dollop of whipped cream.
You can dine al fresco at the old-fashioned picnic tables, or inside in the quaint, updated restaurant or bar area. Wooden tables seat ten and twelve people, and the pail blue walls feature rustic art, curio shelves and nostalgic lighting, even an old-fashioned window and, of course, a rooster cut-out by the entryway next to hooks to hang your jacket.
You can also order take-out and it’s a lot tastier, healthier and the same price as the Colonel’s. With free wi-fi and a kid friendly atmosphere, The Roost even allows you to dine with your leashed dog on the patio. Best of all is the friendly servers who deliver your chicken hot and your beer icy cold.
For locals and visitors, this is a terrific alternative.
Where else on the beach can you dine for under $10?
The Roost – 7141 Gulf Blvd. & 72nd Avenue, St Pete Beach | 727-317-3629 | www.theroostspb.com.
Story by Nanette Wiser