Whitney's on Longboat Key: An Island Oasis

 

What was once a service station at the north tip of Longboat Key, is Whitney's, an amazing laid back bodega & bar. Overhauled in 2020, the building still resembles a 1950s-style service station, with nostalgic Americana details and fresh off the beach vibe. Partners James Brearley, David Benstock, Jose Chichande and Joseph Chillura saw its potential. The former gas station's roll-up garage bay door have even been incorporated into the design, and with Longboat Key simply being one of the loveliest places in Florida, "this is the kind of place where one can find peace. Peace being fish tacos and a boozy beverage, of course. But with chirping birds, lush greenery, live music, a fire pit nestled into seashells, and that salty Gulf breeze on your skin, I’d say Whitney’s qualifies as a type of sanctuary." 

And the food is delicious. Everything on the menu is sensational, from their Fish Tacos to their signature Burger made with short rib, brisket and ground beef, topped with American cheese, grilled onion, garlic aioli, lettuce and tomato with mound of fresh made frites to their exceptional Shrimp Louie and Grouper Reuben. Even their cocktail list is exceptional. Their Margaritas are legendary, made with Blanco Tequila, Cointreau and fresh lime juice, as well as their Frosé, a frothy pink delight made of frozen rosé that is my sister-in-laws favourite tipple. With fabulous food, friendly staff and walking distance to the beach, Whitney’s is just a beautiful place to be.

Cold water and glasses are brought to the table as soon as we sit down

A wild Zebra Haworthia succulent on our table

Whitney's menu is unbeatable — everything is delicious

Whitney's cool Bodega & Bar which makes absolutely amazing Margarita's 

and refreshing frosé which is frozen rosé 

Tables are set up outdoors much like dining at the beach

Glass of Vinho Verde

Unsweetened Iced Tea

Cold Stella Artois

Grilled Fish Taco with shaved cabbage, avocado, roasted corn, 

tomato, chili relish and salsa verde

Grilled Black Grouper Louie with mixed lettuces, avocado, marinated tomatoes, 

hard cooked egg and Louie dressing

Whitney's famous Burger made with a short rib, brisketand chuck patty, with American cheese, 

grilled onion, garlic aioli, lettuce, tomato and bacon with fries

Inside dining remodelled from the original big garage doors

Locals artists are featured inside Whitney's

www.whitneylbk.com