The Greek Sponge Divers of Florida

Canada Free Press ^ | 12/02/16 | Dr. Ileana Johnson Paugh

[MinuteGal]

"Sadly, Tarpon isn't what it once was."

You're 100% correct. The decline started a couple years ago when the really great shops moved out, replaced by too many flea market-type vendors and unimpressive touristy eateries.

For two decades and for fun afternoons, I would take my northern guests to Tarpon Springs, but no more.

Now, for the enjoyment of prowling around a great variety of southern-style quality gift shops and restaurants I take them to Main Street, Dunedin.

Ah.....fun shopping in a super-interesting variety of Florida-style gift shoppes all afternoon, then a relaxing, luscious dinner at the waterfront Bon Appetit restaurant at sunset..... heaven is!

(Plus, for an extra added attraction, my neighbor's son owns a Main Street hole-in-the-wall eatery in Dunedin where REAL Chicago-style hot dogs are sold. Now THAT alone is worth the trip to the shopping area of this charming little Florida town).

Leni

[mountn man]

Last time I was in Tarpon was ‘08.

I remember it from ‘80 -’82 when I was 18-20.

It was a heart breaking let down from those days.

My grandparents had a winter home in Dunedin.
Just a few blocks from the ball park.
My mom inherited it in the mid ‘90’s, but sold it.
Looks to have appreciated pretty well since then.

Haven’t been to mainstreet Dunedin in YEARS. Will have to check it out next time I go.

I’ll pass on the Chicago “style” hot dogs...as I get the REAL THING regularly (as my belly can attest to)
Mmmmmmmm Portillos....Thank goodness it’s late and they’re closed.
Thinking about it is making me hungry :)

I was in Estes Park, Co, where there is a joint there called Chicago’s Best. They have Vienna Beef hot dogs shipped to them. IIRC Mary Ann buns also.
Chicago sports memorabilia on the walls.
Obviously, with Vienna Beef and Mary Anns, they have good dogs.
The EYEtalian beef was pretty good by Chicago standards.
As was their cheese fries.

If you get homesick
http://www.portillos.com/index-shop-and-ship.html

or

http://www.viennabeef.com/chicago-style-hot-dog-kit?page_id=30