“The best breakfast in Florida”.
“People come dressed up. People come in their bare feet. It’s that kind of place. It’s homey. It’s part of the charm.” Jack.
What fun to re-discover a place that I have known for great breakfasts since the 1970s.
Even before sun up Jack’s parking lot was full. I could smell the inviting aromas of fresh coffee, country ham and boiling potatoes (no frozen potatoes at Jack’s) wafting out from the kitchen.
Maralyn and Norm recently drove over the beautiful Skyway Bridge from Tampa Airport through St. Petrsburg, Florida, to Sarasota. How I wish
I had told them about the historic cafe know to all locals as “Skyway Jack’s.”
I have taken a detour in order to begin my day here. I stop for take-out while heading for the airport. My fellow passengers with their typical chain food boxes, look envious when they get a whiff Jack’s homemade ham hash or pineapple coconut pancakes.
However, by ordering take out I miss out on all the friendly fun with locals, lucky tourists, and genial staff.
Who knew when Jack’s first opened that I would be reading about them
in Southern Living and the Food Network Magazine? Jack’s was recently voted “Florida’s Best Breakfast.” I agree.
I will be back to Jack’s next week to ask for a recipe for ham hash or fisherman’s chowder. Yes, they serve hearty lunches too. I simply happen to enjoy real navy baked beans and chowders for breakfast. Next time I plan to try the shrimp and crab omelet with Hollandaise. If so inclined, Jack’s offers plenty if fresh, seasonal fruit and “no cholesterol breakfasts.”
Yesterday I enjoyed 3 cups of quality coffee, two perfectly prepared eggs, real sausage and buttermilk pancakes, with “made from scratch” fresh strawberry jam. The cost was under $3.50. (Before 8 am)
If in the St. Petersburg area, the entire staff at Jack’s will make your day. We have experienced very good food in many places. All of the folks who work at Skyway Jack’s, make it great.
Skyway Jack’s (since 1976)
2795 34th St.
St. Petersburg, Fl. 33711
Telephone: 727-866-3217 or 727- 867-1907
Brenda C. Hill
International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association
Books By Hills Success With Writing Where And What in the World
Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
