Why Tarpon Springs?
I feel like I have to add another Greek dining experience to the blog, because Tarpon Springs is the most Greek city in the US!
Thanks to the Greeks who brought their sponge diving skills to the Gulf of Mexico in the early 1900's, there is a charming historic sponge dock district filled with quaint restaurants and shops.
Hellas Restaurant
You have to love the blue theme with this restaurant!
There is a cool glow to this place that makes you feel like you're in some kind of a glitzy igloo! Which was great, because it was pretty hot out for late September.
Decorated Tiles, Murals and Fountains
Even if it's not a meal time, you can stop in for a cold cocktail... or a coffee.
Even if it's not a meal time, you can stop in for a cold cocktail... or a coffee.
This bartender fit right in with his white shirt and bluish tie. He was all business, which sort of fit the retro feel. We had the place to ourselves, which was nice. But a little people watching could have been interesting if the place had been crowded. We just enjoyed the festive decor instead!
Posing
Since there were lots of waiters hanging around, it was easy to find someone willing to snap our photo.
Posing
Since there were lots of waiters hanging around, it was easy to find someone willing to snap our photo.
In this pic, we're blocking the bubbling fountain, but you have to love the windmills and twiggy trees with blue lights!
Sweets
It wasn't meal time, but it's always time for sweets.
It wasn't meal time, but it's always time for sweets.
The adjoining room with baked goods, felt like an American soda fountain from the 1950's. But, the yummy display behind the glass made me feel like I'd just arrived in Greece!
Some Goodies
I don't even remember the names, but these desserts were more than sweet!
Some Goodies
I don't even remember the names, but these desserts were more than sweet!
The shredded wheat looking item was dripping with honey. The almond treat was my favorite.
I will definitely try to make it back to Hellas for a real dining experience! But nice to know you don't have to dine on a full meal, to enjoy a little of the atmosphere!
Walking off the Sweets... and Beer
We spent an hour walking around the sponge docks and browsing in shops selling sponges and soaps.
After a while, we had worked up a bit of an appetite for one more little Greek Food experience.
Mykonos
This little building was also dressed in blue and white colors!
This little building was also dressed in blue and white colors!
The inside didn't have quite the glow and sparkle of Hellas, but it had (small) Greek columns and maps and a cozy atmosphere that felt kind of boat-like.
Just a Little Hungry
Again, it was not really meal time.
Again, it was not really meal time.
But Don and I were both up for sampling a Greek specialty!
Saganaki!
Just look at that flame! This was my first time sampling flaming Greek cheese. The first few bites were pretty amazing!
Saganaki!
Just look at that flame! This was my first time sampling flaming Greek cheese. The first few bites were pretty amazing!
| I smeared a nice amount on my freshly baked bread and it tasted rich and creamy. I must admit, I suffered a bit trying to finish off the last bites. Too much of a good thing. Maybe I shouldn't always worry about cleaning my plate. We headed back on the road, full and happy. |  |
What a fun tangent on our Florida road trip! We had stopped in Tarpon Springs, just to wander around and look at some boats. I'm glad those curious blue and white buildings lured us in for some mini-dining-adventures! Next time... a full meal!
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