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French Fry Frenzy: Local Spots Turn Side Dish into Main Course

French Fry Frenzy: Local Spots Turn Side Dish into Main Course

Hand-cut seasoned garlic parmesan fries at Central Melt on the 600 Block of Central Avenue.

When it comes to comfort food, it’s hard to compete with french fries. The classic side, generously dressed in seasoned salt and topped with a delicate ketchup insignia, is often the main craving for diners. Restaurateurs and chefs in the city have gone out of their way to cater to those looking to dine and those looking to snack. From classic loaded disco fries to hand-cut wedges that require no condiments, here’s a look at our personal favorite spots to munch on fries in the Burg:

 

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betterbyrd    *Photo via Better Byrd

Better Byrd 

The Ciccio Restaurant Group is taking over the Tampa Bay food scene one delicious idea at a time. Their newest concept, Better Byrd (4447 4th Street North), opened in the Burg in 2016 and has delighted diners with mini doughnuts, indulgent bowls, fried chicken and savory tacos. While we love a Fruity Pebble-topped treat in the morning, it’s the french fries that keep us coming back in the afternoon.

We’re already daydreaming about their chili cheese fries and bacon sriracha queso fries. For those looking for a little crunch, Better Byrd’s crispy fries are also worthy contenders in the battle to impress the elevated palates of Burg residents. You can also enjoy their fries on the Mother Clucker Star Byrd sandwich and BBQ Bowl.

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Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates.

 

AndrewW    *Photo via Andrew W. on Yelp

Central Melt

They had us at grilled cheese rollups. Central Melt is a relative newcomer to the 600 Block. The restaurant is situated in a small space at 685 Central Avenue — right next to the State Theatre. What the restaurant lacks in size it more than makes up for with innovation and attention to detail. Central Melt’s hand-cut fries are made fresh daily.

With just a little bit of salt this ordinary side becomes a revelation. For those looking for something a bit heartier, we recommend you indulge in their Hot Mess Fries — hand-cut fries covered with sloppy joe and shredded white cheese.

Learn about daily deals on their Facebook and Instagram.

 

thechattaway    *Photo via Savitre S. on Yelp

Chattaway

The Chattaway is a Burg icon. Their clawfoot bathtub planters, eccentric interior design and dreamy patio embody all that makes St. Pete the Sunshine City. Their no frills Chattaburger is famous amongst local diners and their crinkle-cut fries serve as the perfect complement. Our affinity for the Chattaway’s fries comes from nostalgia. A meal at this restaurant is truly a simple pleasure.

Spring is the perfect time of year to visit the restaurant — located at 358 22nd Avenue South. Visit their website and Facebook page for updates on special events.

https://www.facebook.com/2ndNSecond/photos/a.391311541302758/622684374832139/?type=3&theater

2nd & Second

There is no better hangover food than cheesy fries. Top off those cheesy fries with a fried egg and you have a winning combination. 2nd & Second, the Burg’s downtown diner brimming with unique comfort food items, gets it. Their egg topped cheesy fries are savory incarnate. Dip those salty spuds in some runny egg yolk and treat yourself.

2nd & Second, 201 2nd Avenue North.

 

jeffabba7    *Photo via @jeffabba7 on Twitter

FarmTable Cucina 

FarmTable Cucina at Sundial St. Pete continues to garner St. Pete high praise from national publications. Its arrival in the Sunshine City sent a message that the Burg was in the midst of a culinary renaissance. FarmTable’s eclectic fine dining theme is evident in their French fries.

These fries are cooked in duck fat and are garnished with just enough salt. The side is the perfect companion to the St. Petersburger — 30-day Locale dry-aged beef, ‘merican cheese sauce, smoked gouda, Niman Ranch bacon, sautéed mushrooms and secret sauce.

Follow FarmTable on Facebook learn more about the lauded restaurant.

 

zaytoon

Zaytoon 

Zaytoon owners Waleed and Mary Khalel incorporate locally made produce into all of their savory dishes. Waleed was born in Jerusalem and has been in the U.S. for 35 years. Mary was born and raised in Kentucky. Zaytoon’s is the realization of a shared dream. The Khalel’s hope to expand the palates of St. Pete residents by offering the fare served up and down the streets of Waleed’s home.

The Kabob platter and falafel are superb, as are their fresh cut fries. The side dish receives the same meticulous care all of their dishes do. Even though it’s right on Central Ave, Zaytoon remains a true hidden gem. We recommend you treat yourself to their culinary creations ASAP. Follow the restaurant on Facebook and Instagram. Zaytoon, 1618 Central Avenue.

https://www.facebook.com/FordsGarageEstero/videos/1385312348160670/

Ford’s Garage 

This chain made its debut in the Burg just recently, and we are so down for their funnel cake fries. Yes, the do the spud justice as a side dish to their massive burgers. Seriously, the wedge fries are nothing to sleep on.

But sometimes we’re in the mood for something sweet, and the funnel cake fries transport us to a simpler time gazing up at the bright lights and ferris wheels of the state fair. Pro tip: Save room for these treats!

Ford’s Garage, 200 1st Avenue South

 

Did we miss your favorite fries in the Burg? Let us know in a comment! We’re always looking to broaden our culinary horizons. 

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