I never made it into Rita's on Anastasia Island, though I do love ice, I adore custard and am all about happiness. I did snap a picture of their sign because I liked their slogan. I'll wend my way back there eventually and file a report on all the colorful products they purvey, but for now let's just be real quiet and think about this universal trifecta.
Gas Full Service Restaurant, locally known simply as "Gas", is currently my favorite eat-house on the enchanting Anastasia Island. It's located at 9 Anastasia Boulevard, just before you run out of island and go over the Bridge of Lions to St. Augustine's Colonial Quarter.
They've got a super-deep craft beer selection (I think this is the first time I've ever had Green Flash West Coast IPA in a restaurant) and their menu is filled with unique goodies like the espresso-rubbed steak (pictured below) and strawberry-datil pepper ice cream (they do love their datils down here!) It's located on the premises of a former gas station, hence the name, and they run with it by using a fun retro gas-station decor scheme. Get there early as you can because it's a small place and there's often a line, but it's worth the wait, Jack.
A lot of people like to swan into a joint and then swan right back out again; when I go into a place I'm there for the long haul, and I can think no better place on Anastasia Island than Gas to set up camp and hold court.
