By Stephen Rafferty
They say “love is in the air” in the month of February due to our lasting tradition of observing St. Valentine’s Day with our partners. Now with so many excellent destinations to dine out in St. Pete and the beach community, that air is also filed with the aroma and temptation to partake in the tasty treats those choices offer us and our loved one.
ISU
Be it a new or lasting amour, there are few if any better meals than sushi to couple with celebrating your relationship. One of St. Pete’s newest restaurants, Isu, has just opened downtown underneath its sister eatery Fortu on Beach Drive. Combining classic Japanese cuisine with Peruvian spice, Isu is a unique wonder for the palate. But before you even sit down to their exotic plates, you will be wowed by the space’s melding of traditional Japanese design with a sleek modern look.
As for the food? Even more impressive. From traditional fare such as Nigiri and Sushimi classics of bluefin tuna, yellowtail and kampachi to a wagu ribeye and crispy rock shrimp, all are an explosion of flavor for the taste buds. The fish looks fresh, smells fresh but most importantly tastes quite deliciously fresh as if Isu has their own sea in the back to pluck their delicacies from. Sauces are applied with restraint and provide the Peruvian touch to the meal; the rice is consistently well-seasoned and textured, an often-overlooked detail that ISU gets right. Inspired by the popular Izakaya (small plates) offerings in Japan, you can eat light with your significant other or indulge in an exquisite feast. Nothing will not impress you!
As well as a fine menu, Isu also offers some of the most original cocktails around. You can try the Sakura Blossom (gin-based with flavors of lychee and cherry blossoms), Kakoa Kohi (their take on the growing popular espresso martini), or if you are feeling a little more adventurous, the Hakka Shito (a tequila agave concoction); no matter which you pick, it will be one you savor.
Adding a new flavor and style, Isu is an extremely welcome addition to St. Petersburg’s sushi offerings and another destination for those to observe a passion for delicious food.
Mon. & Tue. closed | Wed. 5pm-9pm | Thur. 5pm-9pm
Fri. 5pm-3am | Sat. 5pm-3am | Sun. 5pm-9pm
Isurestaurants.com
BLU HALO
Directly in the heart of St. Petersburg’s lively Carillon neighborhood, Blu Halo manages to provide the experience of upscale but relaxed dining. With its striking blue accents, elegant circular bar, and striking blue grand piano – the décor sets the tone for a memorable night, offering an atmosphere that feels intimate, stylish, and thoughtfully curated.
Striking a delightful balance between classic American favorites and creative contemporary dishes, there is plenty of great choices presented for you. Highlights include perfectly cooked steaks like the ribeye, fresh seafood options such as harissa salmon, and standout entrées like the Blu Halo chop with its flavorful blueberry chutney and goat cheese; all arrive expertly cooked. You’ll encounter seafood that is fresh and flavorful and steaks that offer a balance of richness and creativity that encourages sharing bites across the table. Guests also rave about appetizers like oysters and Ahi Tuna Poke, along with inventive desserts that elevate the experience even further. Cocktails are another highlight, crafted with care and presentation that feels celebratory, while the wine list provides solid options for lingering conversation.
Blu Halo St. Pete is an ideal setting for a romantic night out, offering an atmosphere that feels intimate, stylish, and thoughtfully curated. While not in the ever-bustling downtown area, Blu Halo provides an evening well worth the short trip.
Closed Sun. | Mon-Thur. 11:30am-9pm
Fri. 11:30am-10:00pm | Sat. 10:00am-10:00pm
thebluehalostpete.com
RUMFISH GRILL
Spoiled for choice in our innately romantic beach community, I thought I’d choose a destination that may be a little less known by visitors, but one myself and friends have always enjoyed. RumFish Grill has all you need for a special night with your loved one:
ambiance, class, and of course wonderful food. But there is another unique draw to this alluring eatery: a 33-thousand- gallon aquarium that is the front wall of the restaurant. Once you are seated at your warm, moodily lit table you realize the draw to this rare sight isn’t some gimmick, it casts an exotic blue glow over the dining area and captures you with its exotic marine life replete with wildly colorful fish.
Oh, food? You’d also like some tasty treats to make the evening special? RumFish more than has you covered. Copious mouth-watering appetizers await including a delectable sesame seared ahi tuna with mango relish and crisp wasabi. My favorites are the crispy brussel sprouts with a rum glaze, toasted pistachios and smoked bacon; also the sultry burrata with locally picked Plant City strawberries and prosciutto crisp. Of course they have fine seafood selections including a pan seared Gulf grouper, an always satisfying grilled salmon, and my brother’s favorite, the crispy whole yellow tail snapper which is adorned with Key lime hot honey and coconut rice. It’s special! You can indulge in their varied “land” menu from jerk chicken, pork chops, and a smoky bacon cheeseburger to perfectly cooked steaks. I’ve tried all their desserts over the years and no matter the choice, you’ll be extremely satisfied.
Sat.-Sun. 12-10:00pm | Mon.-Fri. 4-10:00pm | www.rumfishgrill.com
