The Iconic Rod & Reel Pier on Anna Maria Island

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November 23, 2019

When visiting Anna Maria Island there are certain places you need to visit. Of course there’s shopping on Pine Avenue, a meal at Ginny & Jane E’s and the iconic Rod & Reel Pier.

We found it highly recommended by locals and reviewers on TripAdvisor alike. It is the essence of AMI – that is, a funky atmosphere with a great product.

Our Arrival

The Rod & Reel Pier is not much to look at first blush. We were greeted by a hand-painted sign, a shellrock parking lot and a long walk out to the restaurant. As we strolled along, we noticed some of the boards were sturdier than others. Many of the planks also had names and such carved into them.

More than one appeared to have been there for quite some time.

When you see this sign, you know you are in the right place.

There usually is a boat or two tied up along the way, as many of the folks out cruising the Passage Key Inlet stop by for a bite to eat or to have a drink and enjoy the ambience. Some folks also fish off the pier.

As we approached the place, we could hear it was well populated.

The Dining

We were hungry, so we immediately headed for the restaurant. Making our way up the gently swaying stairs, we noted they had a couple of options. We could sit outside on the deck and watch the activity on the pier or go inside for a window seat.

The deck is a pleasant place and provides a good water view.

We opted for the inside and a window seat Our waitress Adina was quick and took care of us efficiently, despite a good sized crowd.

It’s a homey atmosphere inside the Rod & Reel Pier.

Being on the Gulf and out on a pier, it’s no wonder they have great seafood. Reviews we read on TripAdvisor bore this out. Some raved “they have the best seafood on the island.” However, although we love the Gulf, we generally don’t eat what is in it.

I opted for the Pier Burger while Mrs. Funmeister had a BLT. We both had cole slaw and fries. This is a great place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner. We enjoyed both the food and the ambience. Mrs. Funmeister pointed out that the cole slaw was done in “true southern style.”

Actually, the ambience is major a part of the dining experience. As we waited and talked about our plans to explore AMI, there was all manner of boat traffic. We saw runabouts, jet skis and sailboats cruising past our window. Somebody at one of the tables even gave the restaurant an impromptu harmonica solo.

A jet ski whizzed across the water as a sailboat drifted by.

Exploring the Place

After lunch we set about having a look around. Behind the deck was a short walkway where people could fish. Downstairs we found another walkway which was well populated with anglers. We asked one gentleman if they were biting.

“Not as good as yesterday,” he replied.

The Rod & Reel is an amazing place. Schools of bait fish ran out from underneath the pier – then would disappear beneath the building again. There was at least one dolphin that swam by while we were there as well. Patrons say that’s a fairly common experience.

Lots of folk were trying their luck at the Rod & Reel Pier

Also downstairs we found a bar. Most of the patrons either were solving the world’s problems via politics or discussing their fishing and boating experiences. It made us want to sit down an order, just to do a bit of people watching.

The Rod & Reel bar was a great people watching opportunity.

In Conclusion

Folks tell us the Rod & Reel is one of their “go-to” places when they are on the island. They stop by at least a few times for different meals while they are on Anna Maria Island. It is easy to see why.

So whether you are cruising by land or by sea, we recommend the Rod & Reel Pier. it is a truly unique experience.

The Rod & Reel Pier is a truly unique experience.

Inn at the Beach Venice – a Lovely Boutique Hotel

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Florida Funmeister

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November 20, 2019

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In the past we have stayed at many chain hotels. Most of the time we had flags we trusted where we also could earn points. However, lately we have tried some boutique hotels. The latest is the Inn at the Beach Venice – which proved to be a wonderful experience.

A “Boutique Hotel” has been described as a small and intimate lodging facility. Most have a stylish design decor with a personal note. They have a unique character which distinguishes them from chains. Boutiques also provide guests with great and ultra-personalized service and typically are situated in a fashionable urban location.

The Inn

We had booked our room sight unseen – but were delighted when we arrived. Although this is an older structure, it is more than well maintained. We found the rooms sufficiently spacious with all the creature comforts. Naturally there was a television, a small fridge, microwave and coffee maker.

Additionally, along with the obligatory coffee, there were two bottles of water and an envelope of microwave popcorn awaiting us. Our only downside was the room that met our pricepoint was a standard double. Although the beds were comfortable, we prefer at least a queen.

Another nice amenity was a pair of beach towels that had been placed at the end of the bed. Those actually were for the pool. However, we imagine some might have gone across the street to the beach. We did not use ours.

The Inn at the Beach is big on vanity accessories. The bathroom was stocked with a full line of individually labeled soaps, shampoos, conditioners and body lotions. On the desk we found a pair of notecards with envelopes. Each had a watercolor print of the Inn, ready for a quick letter to friends up north who are all but snowed-in.

Not only were these toiletries attractive, the products were of good quality.

We were impressed by the width of the hallways. Although it was an outside entrance (not Mrs. Funmeister’s favorite), the walkway was spacious. In fact, there were tables and small chairs in front of each room. These provided a view of the park across the street. That said, we still could walk by others sitting out, without having to squeeze.

The Parks

The Inn overlooks Heritage Park. That green space is dedicated to the memory of the Venice Army Air Base. There are historical displays, commemorative plaques, and a memorial to veterans of all service branches there.

At the end of the hotel, across the Esplanade, was Venice Beach. Under the iconic “Sail Pavilion” that serves as the entryway, are a small shop, tables and restroom facilities.

Venice Beach has lots of amenities as well.

For those who collect artifacts of the sea, Venice Beach is known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World.” Mrs Funmeister is a shell collector and was delighted to find that the sharks’ teeth at the beach were no longer actually connected to the shark.

We will tell you that although the beach at Venice is good for many things, walking is not one of them. The downward pitch of the hard sand is great for swimmers and for kids to play. But it does not provide an adequate level walking surface.

Further up, the soft sand is great for planting an umbrella and enjoying the day with a couple of beach chairs.

Downtown

The Inn at the Beach also is just a few blocks from the Venice Historic District. This is a compendium of shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment facilities. It is within walking distance for extremely hardy individuals. We took the car – as there was plenty of parking.

We did visit the Zebra Piano Bar and ate at TJ Carneys – but that just scratched the surface. This was our second trip to Venice but it won’t be our last. Each time we find new and interesting places. We really enjoyed our stay at the Inn on the Beach as well. Next time, we might investigate the rooms that face toward the Gulf.

Cape Coral’s Wicked Dolphin Distillery

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Florida Funmeister

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November 19, 2019

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We were in Cape Coral recently and stumbled upon the Wicked Dolphin Distillery. This is not the first distillery we have visited in Florida. We have taken a tour through the St. Augustine Distillery and also have visited Timber Creek in the Panhandle and the fledgling Sugar Sand Distillery near Lake Placid.

It’s not easy to find the place, although our trusty GPS guided us there through an interesting mix of residential and industrial properties. One thing is for certain, when you arrive, you know it. The place is well decorated and brightly colored.

The big turquoise building is a dead giveaway you have arrived at the Wicked Dolphin.

Our Visit

One of our big disappointments was that we did not have an opportunity to go on one of their free tours. Unlike other distilleries, it appears that work comes to a halt when guests are shown about, so tours only are held certain times of the day.

When we arrived, there was a group of former airline stewardesses who had purchased a private tour. The next one was not for two hours – which did not fit our schedule.

Nevertheless, there still was plenty to see and do there. Wicked Dolphin Distilleries was started in 2012 with the idea of using locally sourced sugar cane and other ingredients. In fact, Wicked Dolphin Event Manager Angela Milisitz – told us that they are looking at working with organic cane in some of their new product.

Speaking of product, there was no shortage. In addition to the regular Wicked Dolphin Crystal, there were Black, Coconut, Vanilla Bean, Mango and Pineapple varietals. They also produce a vodka and some different “rumshine” products. Those come in strawberry, blueberry and apple pie flavors.

Wicked Dolphin’s Event Coordinator Angela Milisitz and Retail Manager Jen Bixler hard at work at the rum tasting table

Award Winning Rums

Over their short lifespan, this artisan rum distillery has racked up the hardware. For the past four years they have snatched the USA Today’s Best Craft Rum Distillery Award. They also have taken top honors from the International Rum Conference, The American Distilling Institute and The World Spirits Competition – among others.

Our sampling proved these august bodies to be correct. It was difficult to taste each of the different varieties. However, it was our duty as reporters to do so. I simply must say that we tried the Pineapple, Coconut, Key Lime and Crystal versions.

We found them to be light and flavorful. Angela explained that this is because they use real fruit and not extracts, flavorings or oils. My observation is that each of these rums easily can stand on their own. However, some seem to think they make good mixed drinks or can be used for cooking.

There’s plenty to choose from at Wicked Dolphin.

Other Stuff

If you wish, there is plenty of other Wicked Dolphin branded merchandise. There’s apparel like T-shirts and sweatshirts, there are shot glasses, mugs, key chains and flasks. You may want some of their Wicked Dolphin branded sauces, there are gift baskets and boxes with several of their rum varieties.

And if none of that suits you – they are open to suggestion.

There are plenty of T-shirts and tank tops in a variety of colors.

The Tour

As we said before, we did not take the tour. But this is what we know. It takes from 45 minutes to an hour to complete. And while you can bring your kids along, they cannot sample the product unless they are of legal age.

It might be best to take the tour during the winter. While the distillery is air conditioned, the heat coming from the equipment, can make it pretty warm in the Barrel Room. They recommend you dress comfortably.

And yes, you can take pictures.

In Conclusion

We had a pretty good time at the Wicked Dolphin Distillery. The next time, we will make reservations for a tour and report back on how we were able to use our bottle of Wicked Dolphin Pineapple Rum. (Mrs Funmeister already is looking into an appropriate recipe.)

Edison Beach House Earns Florida Top 10 Slot

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Florida Funmeister

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November 17, 2019

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We recently stayed again at the Edison Beach House in Fort Myers Beach. It was of little surprise when we looked at our Twitter feed, and saw that they had been selected as a Top 10 Florida business. The designation came from “Florida’s Top Recommended.”

From restaurants to hotels and even real estate agents, their recommendations are designed to help people select the best in the Sunshine State. Of course we knew this one. We have been blogging about the Edison almost since we started traveling and enjoying Florida.

The Edison Beach House. The big pink hotel where all the suites face out onto the Gulf.

This actually was our fourth time at the Edison Beach House and we must admit we have become rather spoiled. This is an historic lodging facility – but the owners have kept the facilities up to date. From the wonderful balconies to the in-room washer/dryers, the accommodations provided for our comforts and needs.

During our most recent stay we had an opportunity to watch some Saturday beach yoga.

It’s Close to Everything

Although the folks at Florida’s Top Recommended didn’t mention it, we’ll tell you that it’s within walking distance of everything you need. A leisurely stroll took us down to the famous Fort Myers Pier. That’s also the location of “Times Square.”

Times Square is a two block area peppered with restaurants, gift shops and the like. It also is at the epicenter where the beach, the pier and Lynn Hall Memorial Park intersect. We love this place and especially the street entertainers that are there. From jump rope experts to magicians and musicians – there’s always something to see.

The night we were there, a magician simply named Gregory attempted to toss a playing card over a nearby building. He was thwarted by a stiff evening Gulf breeze.

Moreover, just across the street from Times Square is Old San Carlos Boulevard. It too is lined with all manner of souvenir and apparel shops as well as a full array of restaurants.

However, if you want to increase your range and not worry about parking. Never fear, we discovered that the Edison has a full array of bicycles that are equipped to ride either along the streets or up the beach to just about anywhere you need to go.

Sturdy and brightly colored, there are plenty of two wheelers at your disposal at the Edison Beach House.

Yes, the Edison Beach House has earned another award. However. followers of this blog should know by now it is special. This is a lodging that pays attention to detail. Whether you are with family or are looking for a romantic getaway, at Fort Myers Beach it’s difficult to top the Edison.

Thanksgiving Travel at Near Record Levels This Year

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Florida Funmeister

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November 17, 2019

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The American Automobile Association is predicting Thanksgiving Travel to be at near record levels this year. Our destination has not yet been determined. But we probably will be part of their projection.

Here in Florida, AAA officials told us there will be 2.9 million travelers on the highways. That’s part of a prognosticated 55 million Americans traveling nationwide over the holiday weekend.

According to the AAA, traffic will be headed hither and you.

Last year, we had Thanksgiving with the Greeks in Tarpon Springs. Our dinner at Dimitri’s on the Water was a delightful one. However, it was not actually Greek fare. That spurred us to go have dinner with them again more recently. It was Greek and delicious – as was the ambiance.

It’s a great view of the Anclote off the back deck at Dimitri’s

This Year’s Numbers

This year AAA officials told us will be the second-highest Thanksgiving travel volume since they began tracking in 2000. In fact, it’s second only to 2005. And compared to last year, 85,258 more Floridians will be on the road.

If you’re driving we suggest that you gas up and leave early. Wednesday afternoon is forecast to be the worst travel period. We understand nationally, trips could take as much at four times longer than normal in some areas.

“Strong economics are motivating Americans to travel this Thanksgiving in near-record numbers,” said AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins. “Consumer spending remains strong, thanks to increased wages, disposable income, and household wealth. It also helps that gas prices have remained low during the past month, as Floridians finalized their travel plans.

Travel Tips

In any event, if you are headed for grandma’s house (or anyplace else) we agree with the AAA – be prepared. The weather is expected to be good – meaning even more traffic. Make certain you leave early and have plenty of snacks – and other supplies – in the car. We suggest hanging your Tossits on the back of the seat to keep the car neat.

Make certain you car is gassed up and that you’ve done your vehicle check. Most importantly, pack you patience and take your fun with you. Remember, getting there can be some of the best part of the Thanksgiving Experience.

Pine Avenue on Beautiful Anna Maria Island

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Florida Funmeister

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November 11, 2019

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We spent some time in a condo at beautiful Anna Maria Island recently. While we were there, we discovered the Pine Avenue shopping experience. This little street has one of the most interesting and diverse gathering of shops we have seen in our travels.

From The Studio At Gulf & Pine to The Anna Maria Pier, it is a walk of discovery. We found clothing boutiques, eateries and all manner of gift shops. Each had its own unique flair and stock. Incidentally, if you are looking for a place to stay, there’s also a selection of real estate and rental companies along the way.

Our Walk Down Pine Avenue

Our first stop was the Donut Experiment. We quickly found that parking in the area was at a premium. So we decided to check out the nearby shops, then dutifully move the Funmobile down the street so as to make way for paying customers.

The Donut Experiment – where every donut is a custom donut.

At the Donut Experiment, you start with a plain cake donut, then build your own creation using a variety of icings and toppings. And there’s plenty of them. Your choices range from M&Ms to bacon and even raspberry drizzle.

There’s also a selection of specialty donuts like Key Lime or Siracha. Next door is Poppo’s Taqueria. That’s a family owned and operated Mexican-inspired restaurant. Their offerings include tacos, burritos and quesadillas among other things.

Just down the way are the boutiques Pink & Navy and Bella by the Sea. Pink & Navy – or P&N as they say, is a hip and trendy shop with both clothing and accessories. Feature brands include Draper James and Sanctuary. They also have some of their own P&N branded clothes.

These are reversible and say “Gym Buddy” when inside out – a big seller at P&N.

Their neighbor is Bella by the Sea Boutique. They have what is termed “beach urban style” – as well as an assortment of fun accessories from candles to bath bombs.

Kid Stuff

We then ran up on the Shiny Fish Emporium. This is a family-friendly retail store, offering an irresistible array of unique goods, confections as well as kid crafts and activities.

This brightly colored nook at the Shiny Fish is where children – and adults – can paint shells.

Speaking of kids, we stopped in at the Flip Flop Shop & Candy Stop. It has a full line of new and retro candy, as well as a full line of sandals. They also are moving to add more children’s games and toys.

Deliciousness

Two other places we found were uber cool. There was The Olive Oil Outpost. There were so many olive oils, infused oils, balsamic vinegars, infused vinegars, pasta, sauces, pestos, artisan jams and spreads jammed into this tiny shop. We got a deal on some Moliterno altartifo cheese which was outstanding. That became an integral part of a later beach picnic.

And for supplies there was the Anna Maria General Store and Deli. It is a small grocery store in the traditional sense, with a wide range of grab and go deli selections. There’s a nice seating area outside where you can enjoy your meal and the great Anna Maria Island weather.

The Anna Maria Genral Store has a lot of regular grocery items, but there’s also plenty of organics, some wonderful collectables and a fabulous deli.

Our Disappointments

We so wanted to go out on the Anna Maria Pier. Sadly it was under renovation when we were there. The good news is, that it could be open by the time we come back. We did have a chance to watch them work on it and plan for a later visit.

A very sad sight for us at the end of Pine Avenue.

Additionally, we did not have time to stop at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society. Nor did we have a chance to visit the Old City Jail or stop by the Historic Green Village.

And even though we had the Funmobile, I had my eye on Beach Bums to see if they had a really cool vehicle for my wife and me to cruise about the island.

Apparently the woodie is not for rent at Beach Bums Island Attitude.

But that only means that we need to come back again – and perhaps again. Like many of the locations we visit in the Sunshine State, each time we return, we find new and exciting places.

Stay tuned.

“Mosquito County Tours” Now Rebranded as “Around Orlando Tours”

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Florida Funmeister

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November 6, 2019

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Our friend Mandy Longo has told us that she’s rebranded her Mosquito County Tours. It now is known as Around Orlando Tours. Mandy informed us – and the rest of the world – that after a year of being in business, she decided it was time to regroup and push ahead.

Earlier this year we took a combo tour with Mandy through Orlando and it was as enjoyable as it was informative. However, it was easy for us to see that although Mosquito County had a fun ring to it – the idea of the pesky insect might not present the most pleasant image.

Mandy Longo with her trademark Mosquito County T-shirt.

In fact, we ourselves rebranded our site from Florida Fun Zone to Florida Fun Travel earlier this year. Like Mandy, we did it to better reflect what it is we do.

Rebranding will Clarify

Mandy told us from the start she’d had questions and criticism about the “Mosquito County” name. She said guests often were confused, thinking the area might be filled with mosquitoes. They asked if they needed bug spray.

Although the name has changed, the quality of experience will remain at the same high level.

During our excursion, we found that Mandy enjoys creating “custom experiences.” She told us that one of her favorite parts of her business was talking with guests to learn about what kind of experience they wanted. She then creates something that exceeds expectations.

For our money, we found that unlike the theme parks, there were no crowds, no lines and no worries. We enjoyed a perfect Orlando day.

New Digs

Mandy also told us that she’s now in line for some high visibility new office space. Around Orlando Tours will be located in the former Orlando train depot’s tower.

Mandy intimated to us that this would be her office – then swore us to secrecy.

The Big Project

Although she has announced the change, Mandy still is operating under the Mosquito County logo. At least until she gets her next big project finished.

It’s called Orlando’s Eve. It will be “an immersive adventure through the historic streets of Downtown Orlando.” This party will be highlighted with an interactive theater experience that culminates in a roaring 1920’s party at a secret speakeasy.

The evening features live music, dinner and drinks, as well as burlesque and vaudeville performances.The music is to be provided by Brown Bag Brass Band’s Sweet & Hot Roaring 20’s band. Plus a very special performance by Tymisha Harris (from award winning Josephine) will round out the evening.

Although Orlando’s Eve is just around the corner (Nov 16th), Mandy told us that tickets still are available. Mandy was supposed to tell us more, but she was shopping for a new cloche hat and an appropriate bandeau.

Stay Tuned

However, she said once this big party is over, she will reveal more about All Around Orlando Tours and her really big project known as the Floridabilt.

Dick & Jane’s DeLand – A Fun Place for Lunch

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Florida Funmeister

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November 5, 2019

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Each time we visit DeLand we find some new and really fun places. This time it was a cool little restaurant called Dick & Jane’s. Like many of the fun and funky places The Lord sets across our path, this is more than an eatery, it’s also an artsy curio shop with a great selection of wines.

We actually found this little gem while walking along Woodland Boulevard enjoying the nearby shops. When we opened the door of the restaurant, we were impressed at the amount of art. There were drawings, paintings and wall hangings. Also, there were numerous shelves full of goods and even jewelry in display cases.

In addition to the art on the walls, they had set up a special room with yet more items.

Great for Lunch

It’s a local favorite for lunch and it’s easy to see why. The menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, wraps, paninis and croissants. There’s also a brace of salads – including the very intriguing “Celebrity Salad.” Turns out, it’s a bunch of fruits and nuts.

I opted for one of their Signature Sandwiches. The Dagwood (named for Dagwood Bumstead), consisted of roasted top round, fresh roasted turkey, pastrami, sliced pit ham, Swiss, and provolone, lettuce, tomato, mustard and a homemade special sauce. I had mine on black Russian bread.

The Dagwood – the picture does not do justice to the size of this treat.

Mrs. Funmeister decided to try the Plain Jane. That’s their version of a grilled cheese. But plain it’s not. This is made with mozzarella, Provolone, cheddar and jack. It’s normally served on a grilled, flaky croissant, but instead she had it on rye.

A Quick Breakfast

But Dick & Jane’s is not only for lunch. We found that the restaurant has a great breakfast following. They serve up fresh baked goods such as scones, muffins and various pastries and also are famous for their fine coffees and lattes.

Generally, there are plenty of baked goodies available – even after the breakfast rush. It appears that they make enough so that even when you’re ready to leave after lunch there’s a nice selection in the case at the checkout counter.

The History

Dick & Jane’s came into being when Scott and Maria Price took over Stacy Jane’s. That was a small gift shop behind their location. They moved the shop up front and turned it into Dick & Jane’s.

The restaurant actually started out as a coffee shop. But as time went along, they built a full service menu.

We recommend you budget some time when visiting Dick & Jane’s, both for a leisurely lunch and some gift shop browsing.

Polk County’s 39-mile Yard Sale – Full of Finds

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Florida Funmeister

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November 4, 2019

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For better than a decade, Polk County’s 39-Mile Yard Sale has been a great attraction for bargain hunters and pickers from all over. It stretches from Haines City to Frostproof each year with dozens of yard sales, garage sales and rummage sales dotting the route.

We usually try to see and do as much as we can over the five hours or so we budget for the trip. Usually we come away with a few treasures and about ten times as many memories.

It was a glorious morning as we headed to Frostproof to start the 39-Mile Yard Sale.

A Great Start

This particular year, a cool front had moved through central Florida. The air was crisp as we headed toward “The Friendly City” to see what they had to offer. As they do for many events, Frostproof had closed off Wall Street. Both sides were lined with pop-up tents. Some were individual vendors, while others were clubs, groups or organizations looking to raise some funds.

The crowd already was building when we arrived at Frostproof.

We learned that Frostproof was one of the “official” sites of the 39-Mile Yard Sale. Others included St. Ann Catholic Church in Haines City, Lake Hamilton Town Hall, United Methodist Church in Dundee, Lake of the Hills Community Clubhouse, The Lake Wales History Museum in Lake Wales and The COOP restaurant in Babson Park.

There also were other individual garage sales on streets and roads just off the Scenic Highway. There were both store-bought and hand-lettered signs pointing us down adjoining thoroughfares. Some, who lived near the intersections, were easy to spot. Long lines of cars had parked along the berms with pedestrians roaming along the residential streets.

This location had plenty of jewelry at bargain prices.

Not All Smooth Sailing

Like I said, there were so many places to see along the road we simply could not stop at them all. We also were slowed down in Lake Wales. A semi-tractor trailer rig had come across the road and jammed under a railroad bridge blocking the Scenic Highway.

This miscalculation blocked the road for several hours.

There were no injuries – and the detour was fortunate for a few. It took cars through an adjoining neighborhood, and past several other nearby garage sales that might otherwise not have seen as much traffic.

People Watching

The vendors were as interesting as the items they had for sale. One estate sale had each item clearly marked and the man in charge could quickly tell you what his items would fetch on ebay. Others were just as happy to sell things off to see them get a new home and make a dollar or two in the process.

“Make me an offer,” was a common overheard comment.

Some sales were not as well organized as others.

We saw a large truck bearing the name of Renninger’s – the large flea market located in Mt. Dora. Apparently they were in search of bargains that shoppers might see again.

At one sale, a man was in search of bedpans. Yes, he actually has 97 in his collection and is shooting for 100. And there were more than a few youngsters getting some extra use from their Halloween costumes. We saw several princesses.

Did we mention the food? There was no chance to get hungry during the 39-Mile Yard Sale. There were plenty of vendors with a wide variety of things to eat. From pulled pork sandwiches to lemonade stands, clubs, groups, organizations and individuals were looking to capitalize on hungry shoppers.

In Dundee, the faith community was set up along the Scenic Highaway to help those in need of Prayer.

The Scenic Highway

For those who don’t know, The Ridge Scenic Highway extends 38.7 miles along the Lake Wales Ridge. Officially, it runs from its intersection with US 27 south of Frostproof to its intersection with US 17/92 in Haines City.

The roadway winds through the historic communities of Frostproof, Hillcrest Heights, Babson Park, the Village of Highland Park, Lake Wales, Lake of the Hills, Dundee, Lake Hamilton and Haines City.

We learned that money raised during the event goes to the Ridge Scenic Highway Corridor Management Entity. That’s administered by the Polk County Transportation Organization. Its goal is to keep the Ridge Scenic Highway designated as a Florida Scenic Highway.

In Conclusion

We have done a lot of shopping in out travels and Polk County’s 39-mile Yard Sale is one of our favorites. Plus – we have come to like Frostproof. From their periodic street dances to the Farm2Fork Restaurant it’s a quaint place. We especially love the 39-Mile Yard Sale as fun and inexpensive entertainment.

Ginny & Jane E’s – A New Top Florida Breakfast Location

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Florida Funmeister

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October 29, 2019

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On a recent trip to Anna Maria Island we were looking for a good breakfast. Everyone pointed us to Ginny & Jane E’s. Our stop there vaulted it into the next round for our top Florida breakfast locations.

Officially, it’s known as Ginny & Jane E’s at the Old IGA Store. The cafe, bakery, shop and gallery is located in an old Independent Grocer’s Association location along Gulf Drive.

Perched along Gulf Drive on Anna Maria Island, Ginny & Jane E’s is a fixture in the historic district.

Originally, the IGA was started by Ernie Cagnina and his brother-in-law Bennie shortly after World War II. A plaque in his honor stands at the front door of the place.

Once we got inside, we found all vestiges of a grocery store had long since disappeared. It’s now crammed full of local arts, crafts, curiosities and all manner of interesting items. We had the opportunity to browse, but chose first to eat.

The Dining

Ginny and Jane E’s is a cafe with breakfast and lunch. And when it comes to the food, it’s just our cup of tea. The selections all are made from scratch. Moreover, they’re free of nitrates and preservatives. Possibly best of all, much of it is locally sourced.

They still had a pretty good selection of baked goods when we arrived, Even though it was a bit later in the morning.

Choosing breakfast there was not an easy task for us. There are skillets, pancakes, biscuits ‘n gravy or french toast. There also are all kinds of different breakfast sandwiches or breakfast burritos. When we visited, they had just added fried chicken and waffles to the menu.

I had the Anna Maria Skillet – Mrs. Funmeister had a One Egg Breakfast. We also had a massive cinnamon roll (not pictured – gone before I thought to get the camera out).

They also serve lunches. As far as we can see, those choices are just as difficult. The menu features hot sandwiches such as burgers, melts, Reubens and the like. There also are cold sandwiches and wraps. Salads are yet another option.

The food was good and the ambience delightful. We decided the next time we visit AMI, we will try a lunch at Ginny’s.

At Ginny and Jane E’s you can dine amidst the art,

After ordering at the counter there are lots of places to sit both inside and out. They even have a special little table for youngsters which has crayons, coloring pages and all sorts of things to keep younger patrons busy while orders are being prepared back in the kitchen.

You make your order at the counter, a waitress later will bring it to your table.

While you are waiting, you can talk with other patrons, walk through the store, admire the art or even pass a guitar around. Sadly, nobody played while we were waiting.

The Shopping

After having breakfast, we did take time to browse through the store. It’s an eclectic mix of old and new items, plus plenty of local art. There are racks of different kinds of clothing and accessories. If you like jewelry, there’s plenty of that as well. If you need to try something to make certain it fits they have a “dressing room” for your convenience.

The dressing room is just behind the curtain.

Ginny & Jane E’s also carries a stock of one-of-a-kind postcards. If you like furniture, there’s a selection of chairs, tables and lamps. Scanning the aisles, we saw lots of things made from shells and items found about by local artists. “Odds and Sods” as they call them. Let me tell you, this is the place where you find presents that you are sure will not be duplicated – and certainly cannot be found on Amazon.

The History

Sisters Ginny and Jane E have retired from the business. Their legacy now is carried on by Paul and Tammy Foster. As the story goes, Ginny had a antique shop at nearby Holmes Beach but wanted something more. Jane was not involved in a business. She worked on a farm with her family. Her skills were cooking and baking.

The two got together and took a big step forward – they decided to go into business together. After searching for a suitable location, the old IGA store, once run by the late pioneer and community leader Ernie Cagnina became available.

The sisters took the space and created the iconic shop which continues to be a mainstay of the Anna Maria Island historic district today.

The old IGA sign remains at the coffee prep area of Ginny and Jane E’s.

We found Ginny & Jane E’s is a fun and funky place. We give it five stars as a restaurant and another five as a great shopping experience.

Our Arrival

The Dining

Exploring the Place

In Conclusion

The Inn

The Parks

Downtown

Our Visit

Award Winning Rums

Other Stuff

The Tour

In Conclusion

It’s Close to Everything

This Year’s Numbers

Travel Tips

Our Walk Down Pine Avenue

Kid Stuff

Deliciousness

Our Disappointments

Rebranding will Clarify

New Digs

The Big Project

Stay Tuned

Great for Lunch

A Quick Breakfast

The History

A Great Start

Not All Smooth Sailing

People Watching

In Conclusion

The Dining

The Shopping

The History

WEATHER

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