By KEITH CHAMLEE
If you were to Google “Queenshead Pub” you would find one in just about every village in Great Britain and every major city throughout the world. For the most part, you will find them set in a traditional Victorian setting complete with deep rich mahogany shelves. Sports, bangers and mash (or fish and chips) served alongside a pint of ale seem to be the normal fare.
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When owners Darren Conner and Paul Smith opened their Queenshead Gastro Pub, ‘normal’ was not what they intended to offer. Located at 2501 Central Avenue in the Grand Central District of downtown St. Petersburg, this distinguished and elegantly appointed dining spot is just the place to frequent whether you are entertaining friends or out for a nice dinner for two. With ample seating at the spacious bar; dining alone (as I did) isn’t a bad idea either. You will find it difficult to locate a more inviting patio. The staff is extremely attentive and friendly. Conner and Smith take a ‘hands on’ approach which adds to the relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.
I took one look at the menu and knew that I was in for a real treat. No ‘pub grub’ here. Executive Chef Chris Greer offers a creative menu with a wide variety to suit everyone’s taste. I opted to start with the seared scallops served with Brussels sprouts and cherry wood smoked bacon and for a main course chose the balsamic glazed beef filet accompanied by sautéed spring onions, thyme mash with a balsamic port reduction. I stuck up a conversation with a regular customer seated next to me at the bar, Simon (it just so happens that he is from across the pond, too), after noticing the colorful salad in front of him. He assured me that the salads should not be overlooked. His choice: a blood orange and strawberry with baby spinach, goat cheese, red onion served with an aged balsamic reduction. Brilliant!
For all the British pub die-hards out there, not to worry, you can find fish and chips and Shepherds Pie on the menu, too. The creativity doesn’t end there. For dessert, I recommend the Eton Mess — fresh strawberries, cream, meringue, candied lemon zest with basil sorbet. Enjoy a glass of wine or a pint of ale with your meal. One thing is for certain, combine ambience, quality and presentation of food, great service at a very reasonable price and you’re sure to leave feeling as if you have gotten more ‘bangers’ for your buck!
LONG LIVE THE QUEEN! Queenshead Gastro Pub, that is.
