Live In St. Pete

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Sometimes we forget what we have already. Last night was one of those reminders. The Bay Area Concierge Association was hosted by Jo Jo’s in Citta, a mainstay for comfortable Southern Italian food since 1991 in downtown St. Petersburg. As we are inundated with exciting new restaurants that grab all the attention, we need to remember those great places that have been around.
Jo Jo’s sits at the base of Bank of America Tower, with its main entrance on Central Avenue. It’s a warm, casual environment with an excellent menu.
Last night, we were treated to meatballs & sausages, a Penne alla Vodka that was to die for, a beautiful salad that looked like it should have been a postcard, bruschetta and sinful garlic knots. (Take a look at the pictures if you like.)
The best part, though, was when the owner & chef (Jo Jo’s nephew) sat down and joined us – he’s Italian, after all. I have fond memories of Jo Jo from when I was in college. He cooked a meal at his home for my roommate and I – more food than you could imagine, and all of it amazing.
So, as we celebrate all of the wonderful new cuisine options we have, don’t forget about old favorites that you can always count on. Check out Jo Jo’s menu and see if there isn’t something you’ve been meaning to enjoy.

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Downtown St. Petersburg has several great options for Italian dining. You’ve got white tablecloth at Grattzi’s at BayWalk, casual and reliable at Jo Jo’s in Citta in the Bank of America Tower on Central Ave, the trendy urban Bella Brava a few blocks west on Central, and several others, but the newest on the block is Buona Vita. Today was my second time there, and I’ve been equally impressed with the classics done superbly in massive proportions.
On my first visit, I opted for the Bolognese. I’m a fan of the rich, meaty sauce, and this was excellent. “I can’t believe I ate the whole thing!” Today I got to try another favorite, the Carbonara – rich, creamy and delicious, with perfectly firm peas, earthy mushrooms and crispy pancetta. It was delicious!

Buona Vita is in the 300 block of 1st Avenue S., a little tucked away from most of the foot traffic. So word of mouth is crucial to keeping them in business. Each time I’ve been there the crowd has been healthy but not so many that it was loud. Previously a coffee shop, Buona Vita offers great classic dishes, super pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and – of course, great Italian desserts. Stop in and give them a try if you haven’t already! Check them out on Facebook.