Like other Tampa Bay concepts, St. Pete’s Iberian Rooster is evolving due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Case in point: The kitchen has transformed into a counter-service concept called Avo’s Kitchen.
Operating at 475 Central Ave. Suite no. 100, the joint celebrated its grand opening on Tuesday, Sept. 8.
But have no fear, Iberian Rooster stans, the concept is still technically around. In a post on the Avo’s website, owner Russell Andrade explained the pandemic-induced changes and detailed how he’s protecting the health of his staff.
“We are just adding a new food concept, and because we don’t want you coming to the Rooster expecting a dining experience we no longer offer, we have decided to rename the kitchen to Avo’s Kitchen as a tribute to my grandmother (who’s recipes we stole to make this menu!),” he wrote. “We are expanding our brand. Iberian Rooster for the cocktails you love in a space you love; Subcentral for the events, performances and art you need; and now, Avo’s Kitchen for a unique, fun and delicious culinary experience.”
Now let’s get into the menu.
Goan bowls are the focus; diners can build their own choosing a base, a protein, sauce and toppings. There are also seven signature chef bowls to dig into like “Prawn Stars”, a packed bread bowl with cauliflower rice, shrimp curry, green sauce, chickpeas and onions, or the “Boom Chicka Boomer” with brown rice, curry chicken salad, sweet herb sauce, onions and chickpeas.
Sides and handhelds include a selection of samosas, Goan patties, Rooster wings, roti, grilled bread with curry dip, crispy onion fritters, and a crispy fish sando.
Avo’s also has “THICC” drinks like coconut, mango and chai lassi for $4 each. Lassi is a popular traditional dahi-based drink that originated in India. Lassi is a blend of yogurt, water, spices and sometimes fruit.
Need some caffeine? The coffee bar slings lattes, cappuccinos, americanos, chai lattes, hot teas and classic brewed joe.
You can order ahead for takeout or delivery through Avo’s website. Just a heads up, delivery only goes until 9 p.m.
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This article appears in Sep 10-16, 2020.
