
When former Tampa Bay Buccaneers/businessman Vincent Jackson died, many wondered about the fate of St. Petersburg’s Manhattan Casino and its revamp. But Callaloo Group partner Mario Farias told Creative Loafing Tampa Bay planned to still reopen and keep Jackson’s memory alive.
“We’re going to keep his vision and legacy alive at the restaurant,” Farias said at the time.
22 South Food Hall is getting ready to open April 30 and Farias & co. have been giving us a preview of what to expect.
“One of the most unique experiences is about to open in the St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay area on April 30, 2021,” they wrote on Facebook. “Yes…22 South Food Hall right in the middle of the city.”
Meet the chefs coming to the food hall:
- Betterway BBQ The Graveley brothers bring their classic BBQ to the hall. Guests can enjoy their house smoked meats and traditional faves like ribs, baked chicken, and more.
- Callaloo Bar & Bites A revamp of the initial Callaloo concept; expect craft cocktails, sangrias, and bar bites.
- Deuces Cafe Quaint coffeehouse featuring locally-sourced beans and brews full of flavor.
- Irie Mon Jamaican Grill Chef Dean Hudson serving up Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken and beef patties.
- Ray’s Vegan Soul Plant Based Shack Chef Ray Milton dishes out healthier faves like his curry pumpkin chili, buffalo cauliflower, and various desserts.
- Shokkan Sushi Sushi, the ever-popular poke bowls, and burritos by Chef Lan Mai.
- St. Pete Bowls Locally-sourced and crafted fruit and veggie bowls, smoothies, and juices by fruit & veggie artists Ajna Adams and Naomi Richardson.
- Three Generations Chef Mel Gardner’s food truck is finally putting down roots so everyone has a chance to enjoy plates like Avolox Toast (a riff on avocado toast with salmon), red velvet chicken & waffles, and Cajun fish and grits.
- VJ’s A tribute to Vincent Jackson run by Executive Chef John Karasiewicz, the menu features a twist on American fare. A portion of the proceeds from the concept will support the Jackson in Action 83 Foundation.
The food hall is located inside the Historic Manhattan Casino at 642 22nd St. S. It’s hours will be daily 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
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This article appears in Apr 15-22, 2021.

