Driving down 22nd Street South just off of Central Avenue, passersby will be transfixed by vibrant murals depicting legends such as Prince, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Baby blue signs line the road decribing the rich history of the Deuces Live neighborhood. Over the past couple of years, entrepreneurs and residents commited to the prosperity of this area have brought fine art and foodie favorites to the section of St. Pete — one that is imperative to its history. Elihu and Carolyn Brayboy opened the popular Chief's Creole Cafe at 901 22nd Street South back in the fall of 2014 and inspired a new wave of businesses to open.
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Gallerie 909, an African-American art gallery founded by Carla Bristol has provided a platform for rising and established artists to showcase their work. The exhibits at 909 have also attracted visitors from all over the Tampa Bay area, iiquntroducing many to this district for the first time. Deuces BBQ delivers some of the best ribs we've ever had, and one of the most unique waffles we've ever cut in to. Dr. Carter G. Woodson Museum has played a vital role in not only preserving the history of the neighborhood and of the Burg, but also educating the larger St. Pete community about the Sunshine City's past and how it can work to create a brighter future.
One of the newest additions to the area, Elma's Café, permeates the same kind of heart that has so characterized this area. Located at 1235 22nd Street South, the spot was originally a barbershop owned by Joe Yates. Elma Barnes and her son, Dwayne, returned to the Midtown area just a couple of years ago. The former barbershop was now vacant. It inspired Elma to open a restaurant. It was a dream of hers to own the spot with her son and to serve good food to the St. Pete community. Elma passed away before renovations on the space were completed. Today, Dwayne runs the café and provides the Deuces neighborhood with delicious bites. The intimate space fits about 8-10 diners, though Barnes says most customers are grabbing food on the go before work.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy a good cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast sandwich, look no further than Elma's. Barnes is currently working on getting historical designation for the buidling. While Elma's Café serves as a reminder of the renaissance in the Deuces neighborhood, the exterior pays homage to its past.
Thomas English, coach of the Elma's Cafe Tigers, painted a mural on the side of the building depicting Yates' barbershop. The café is open from 7am-4pm Monday through Thursday, and 7am to 4pm on Friday. The menu also features hamburgers, hot dogs, ham and cheese sandwiches, grits and grilled cheese. Those who have visited note the excellent service and conversation. If you want to learn a little bit more about your city while you dine out this week, we recommend you pay Elma's a visit.
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