By Gerry Clare
Roving Reporter
Tom Clare, Photographer
June 13, 2018 8:40 p.m.
“After 26 years in this wonderful locale, we are moving away to a new adventure in a CCRC community near Jacksonville Beach.”
Gerry Clare, Roving Reporter
Pogo’s Kitchen
Since Pogo’s Kitchen opened in the old “Gourmet, Gourmet” building next to the fire station at the south end of the island, there has been a steady stream of comments on social media about their offerings. I decided to go to brunch on Saturday with my good friend, Carol Kerr, and check out the new digs for myself. We were not disappointed.
It is owned by the restaurant group that owns Amelia Tavern on Centre Street and the professional touches are quite evident. The modern contemporary look takes in the bar on one side, an open room in front with a tasteful divider, a glass-enclosed room in the back and an outside patio. The glassed-in room is also available for private parties or events and includes a drop-down TV if needed.The colors are soft grays and black and white wall art with soft lighting fixtures and lamps.
On this cloudy morning it was a very welcoming atmosphere indeed. We were greeted by the , met us at the table and was very familiar with the brunch menu, the new coffee menu, and the dessert menu as well.
Soft music played in the background and by the time we finished out poinsettias, Carol’s pecan brioche French toast (without the cream) and my cheese omelet and coffee, we were hardly in the mood for dessert. Although beignet’s sounded great and homemade ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, cinnamon, butter pecan, and pistachio) was certainly an option.
Head chef Alan Heckman from New York was happy to be involved in the new venture and graciously answered some of our questions about “Charleston to the Delta” cooking. He mentioned that the smoked fish on the dinner menu could be served unsmoked. He also confirmed that the mushrooms in my omelet were “duxelle” which was delicious but not what I expected. He mentioned the sous chef’s name is Anthony D’emidio.
The owners and chefs have certainly created a unique menu and this restaurant is certain to be a happy new addition to our island cuisine. The website has complete menus and hours of operation as well. Oh, don’t forget to ask for their environmentally friendly biodegradable take out box if you order the French toast.
Harris Teeter
By now you have probably heard about the hot meals served at Harris Teeter, I.e., prime rib, lobster, and pizza. Since this store expanded on the south end of the island, they feature these specials on Wednesday and Thursday nights and pizza every night at extremely reasonable prices.
My husband/photographer and I decided to check our prime rib night on Thursday, served from 11 to 2 and 4-7 pm. Needless to say, the line at 5 pm was pretty long, But I had my heart set on prime rib, so I stood online, For $10 each the meal included prime rib, roasted rosemary potatoes, mixed veggies, horseradish sauce and au jus. The line was handled quickly and by the time I got up for my turn, there was a fresh roast and hot potatoes coming out from the kitchen. Sue handled the carving and the filling the boxes like a pro and the portions were generous and rare and medium rare for us. Since it was hot we decided to enjoy the meal right there is the store at the front counter across from the Starbucks café. A glass of cabernet from their huge new wine section would have been nice, but a coke sufficed.
Harris Teeter also has a hot Asian Bar and other dinner selections to take out as well. I realize this is not a restaurant review from your roving reporter foodie, but just couldn’t resist the urge to try something new in our area. After 26 years in this wonderful locale, we are moving away to a new adventure in a CCRC community near Jacksonville Beach.
Thanks to Susan Steger at Fernandinaobserver.com for the opportunity to meet and work with so many wonderful people in the Amelia Island area.
Gerry began free lance writing for fun and is the author of a published book (available on Amazon and at Books Plus) about funny real estate experiences. Gerry is a longtime member of our local American Business Women’s Chapter, a volunteer cancer driver and church deacon who loves to read, travel and meet interesting people.
Editor’s Note: Over six years ago, a newly retired real estate agent Gerry Clare told me she was interesting in writing during the next phase of her life. I let her in on a secret that we were launching the Fernandina Observer and we would love for her to be a contributor. During those six years, Gerry and Tom, her photographer, bounced around the area enjoying Fernandina fun and checking out every new, and even old restaurants, in the area. They enjoy life to the fullest and no doubt will continue doing the same in their new home. We wish you the best!
Going to miss your articles and you very much. So sorry you are leaving us. Good luck in your new endeavor
Gerry, best wishes to you and Tom in your new settings. I have always enjoyed your casual style of writing bringing us your take on the food scene in FB.
We will miss you both. Thanks for all the super articles and pictures!
Have really enjoyed your articles. We will miss you.
You both will be missed……you are just a hop skip & a jump,so come on back to the island if you guys need R&R.
I will miss my ‘twin’ – best wishes and many blessings in your new adventure.