Newcomers

As I said several days ago, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. officially opens its doors at John’s Pass Village in Madeira Beach on Friday, July 18. Like a dreamy new neighbor, on its opening day it gives 50 percent of all sales (not net proceeds, mind you) to St. Petersburg-based nonprofit R’Club, whose mission is to strengthen children, families, and communities through quality child/youth development programs that focus on Respect, Responsibility, Resourcefulness, and Responsiveness. The new two-story, 400-seat location features two patios and a lovely water view from inside the dining room. The restaurant is led by general manager Mark Talbot, a Florida native, and chef Lynn Yoder, who has been the chef at the New Orleans location since 2005.

Another newcomer, kind of, opens this week. Grill 131, a new restaurant in Seminole by Bob Spoto opens July 14 at the corner of 131st Street and Park Blvd. Funny thing, Spoto was in this location 20 years ago! And Crabby Bill's is set to open in Indian Rocks Beach sometime this week (meanwhile, neighboring tiny sushi spot, Tao, seems to have quietly closed). Stay tuned.