Chef Michael Manno has taken up shop at Foodie Labs (515 22nd St S suite 130), a shared commercial kitchen space, to test his Bistro 3951 concept. Inspired by his Italian heritage and his wife’s Peruvian culture, Chef Manno created a fusion menu that marries the best of both worlds. Even the name, Bistro 3951, pays homage to the two countries—39 is Italy’s country code, and 51 is Peru’s.
Because of its location on the Pinellas Trail, Chef Manno’s customers are primarily cyclists and runners looking for a light, affordable bite before continuing their activity. This limitation challenges Manno to keep the menu simple yet creative. And he’s risen to the challenge, developing a 5-star menu that is as unique as it is affordable.
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Dishes include a Pesto Pasta with a Peruvian twist. Instead of the classic pine nuts, basil, oil, and parmesan, the pesto sauce at Bistro 3951 is made by pureeing walnuts, fresh spinach, queso fresco, and an evaporated cream sauce. Another standout is the Minestrone Verde—a beef minestrone soup enriched with pureed basil, spinach, huacatay (Peruvian black mint), shredded parmesan, and queso fresco. Adding an Asian twist, Chef Manno recently debuted his newest creation: Wok Seared Noodles.
Bistro 3951 may become a brick-and-mortar restaurant
While Chef Manno is still testing his concept at Foodie Labs, he plans to pursue a brick-and-mortar location if the concept proves successful. Currently, Bistro 3951 is a one-man operation. “I am Chief Cook, Head Bottle Washer, Executive Steward,” he laughs. “What other titles can I have?” A dedicated location would allow him to expand his menu without the limitations of a shared kitchen.
“In a perfect world, Bistro 3951 would be upscale casual,” says Chef Manno. “Get some authentic Italian cuisine in the St. Pete scene… really lean into it.” A future restaurant would still feature the elements customers love today.
Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and word is spreading despite Bistro 3951’s hidden spot off Pinellas Trail. We recommend you seek it out and experience the fusion magic for yourself. Check out Bistro 3951 online.
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